BLOG | STRAIGHT TO THE HEART

Guyton Garland Guyton Garland

Nothing Is Impossible With God

In Luke 1:5-38, God breaks 400 years of silence by making two announcements. Our Old Testament ends with the book of Malachi where God promised to send a messenger (3:1) who would prepare his people for the arrival of God’s promised king on the “great and awesome day of the LORD” (4:5-6). Luke tells us that day has arrived. 
 
In the first announcement, God’s angel, Gabriel, lets Zechariah know that God has answered his and Israel’s prayers, and he will send a prophet to prepare his people for their promised Savior-King (1:5-25). In the second announcement, Gabriel informs Mary that God will send his promised Savior-King to rule over his people. 
 
What is surprising in both cases is that God will send them through surprising, unsuspecting women. The older barren one, Elizabeth, will birth the prophet, John the Baptist. The young teenager, Mary, will birth the promised Savior-King, even though she has never known a man intimately. 
 
By putting these two announcements side by side, Luke wants us to know that while John will be great, Jesus will be greater: 

  • John will be great before the Lord (1:15); Jesus will be great (without qualification – 1:32). 

  • John is the prophet of the Most High (1:76); Jesus is the Son of the Most High (1:32). 

  • John will prepare the way for the King (1:16); Jesus is the promised Savior-King (1:32-33). 

 
To show the greatness of Jesus, God will bring John into the world through a miraculous birth; he will bring Jesus into the world through a miraculous conception. This virginal conception is what we commonly refer to as the virgin birth. 

  • The virginal conception shows us the power of God – he is the creator God. 

  • The virginal conception shows God’s unique relationship with Jesus – Jesus is the Son of God. 

  • The virginal conception shows us the uniqueness of Jesus’s person and work – fully God and man. 

  • The virginal conception shows us God’s willingness to identify with us – he is God with us. 

 
The virgin birth is a core doctrine of the Christian faith. It is what allows us to understand the incarnation of God the Son. Jesus is the divine Son of God, the human son of Mary by the Holy Spirit, and Israel’s forever King. 
 
God is no longer silent. He has spoken and has announced his plan in Jesus. All the Old Testament promises will be fulfilled in Jesus. Like Mary, we must be ready to bow down in humility, trust his word, and be ready to do whatever he asks of us.  

NOTE: Go by the book stall in the foyer and pick up a free Luke Scripture Journal. These journals contain the gospel of Luke and offer a page for notetaking. They will be available until we run out.

Resources of the Week

  • Missions: RTIM Preview Day, Thursday, December 5, at High Pointe (Austin) 

    • Whether you desire to move overseas as a long-term missionary or are seeking to mobilize your church towards global missions, our Preview Days are a great place to learn more about the convictions Reaching & Teaching and how you can partner with us. We host these regionally at partner churches around the country to provide accessibility to area pastors and church members alike. 

    • For more information or to join us click HERE.  

Opportunities to Serve and Grow at High Pointe
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)

Re:Connecting Around the Gospel | A One-Day Marriage Workshop | Saturday, December 7 | 8:30 AM-12 PM
This workshop is for any married couple to attend together. The workshop will present biblical wisdom then provide time for couples to reflect, process and pray together. Registration for childcare for this event closed on December 2. Click here to register.
 
Women’s Ministry Annual Christmas Brunch | Saturday, December 14 from 10 AM-12 PM
Ladies, please plan to join the women at our annual Christmas brunch! Aimee Barnes will be speaking. Click here to register.
 
Meaningful Membership Class | Sunday, January 12 | 1:15-4:30 PM in the Old Choir Room
If you’re interested in learning more about High Pointe or pursuing membership with High Pointe, please mark your calendars Membership Class. This class will cover three main questions: What is the church and why should I join, what does High Pointe believe, and what do we expect of church members at High Pointe. Click here to register.
 
Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us. Childcare is available for ages 8 months through Pre-K. This session, we are offering the following classes from August 25 to December 5:

  • All English-speaking life classes will begin a three-week class focusing on advent 

  • Kids Life Class:  For children K–5th grade  

  • Spanish Life Class | Discipulado: Principios y Prácticas

Sunday AM Preaching Schedule: Pray regularly for the ministry of the Word at High Pointe. Also, prepare for our gatherings by reading the sermon text, thinking it through, and asking questions about the text before Sunday. Here is our (tentative) preaching schedule designed to help you prepare for Sundays:  

  • December 8 | Luke 1:39-80 | Christmas Praise, Pastor Juan 

  • December 15 | Luke 2:1-21 | Christmas Joy, Pastor Juan 

  • December 22 | Luke 2:22-52 | What Child is This?, Pastor Juan 

  • December 29 | Luke 3:1-20 | What Does Repentance Look Like? 

Begin praying as you prepare to gather with us this Sunday at 10:00 am.
 
Gospel Partner of the Month: Reaching and Teaching International Ministries – B.M.
Reaching & Teaching International Ministries (RTIM) seeks to advance the gospel by partnering with local churches as they send qualified missionaries to make mature disciples, establish healthy churches, and train local leaders around the world.
 
You may know of RTIM because we sent Davey and Callie Davis and the P family through this sending organization. This month, we want to highlight our support for B.M. B and his wife served for seven years as missionaries in Central Asia, working in evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. After returning to the US, B spent six years as a global trainer, traveling around the world to equip international church leaders for ministry. He desires to see the gospel spread and churches established among the nations of Central Asia. B is a graduate of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife have three children.  
 
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours and on weekends. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1. 

Read More
Guyton Garland Guyton Garland

Salvation Has Come to All Nations: A Study of Luke’s Gospel

Whether you’re a new or mature Christian, I am sure you have questions about the Christian faith. Maybe you even have doubts about some things you’ve been taught. Well, you’re in good company. Theophilus was likely a gentile Christian who may also have been a Roman official. Luke wrote his gospel to reassure Theophilus that what he had been taught about Jesus and salvation was true. As I said on Sunday, we can be certain concerning what we have been taught from the Bible about Jesus and his salvation. That is the purpose of Luke’s gospel. To reassure us of the truthfulness of the gospel accounts. 
 
The Basis of Our Certainty 
What is the basis of our certainty, according to Luke? Others had already written eyewitness accounts about what had been accomplished among them (1:1). I take Luke to be talking about the apostles, primarily. Jesus promised to give them the Spirit, and he would teach them all truth. The apostles received the revelation from the Father that Jesus is the Christ (Matthew 16:16-20). This is why the early church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching (Acts 2:42).  
 
But these apostles also had companions that traveled with them and assisted them in their ministry. So, for example, John Mark, who wrote the Gospel of Mark, wrote his gospel based on Peter’s eyewitness account. Scholars also agree that there was a collection of Jesus’ sayings written down. These eyewitness accounts were written down and distributed (1:2).  
 
Then, Luke, for his part as a faithful historian, wrote his gospel as an orderly, eyewitness account based on his travels with the apostle Paul, the gospel of Mark, and, likely, eyewitness interviews (1:3). The purpose of his writing was to reassure Theophilus that what he had been taught about Jesus and his salvation was trustworthy and true.  
 
We too can be certain about what we’ve been taught from the Bible concerning Jesus and his salvation because it is based on eyewitness accounts written for us by the apostles and their companions under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:16-21). This is why we also must devote ourselves to the apostles’ teaching: both individually in personal devotions (Bible reading, study, memorization) and corporate gatherings where we sing, read, pray, hear, preach, and see the gospel word. 
 
What questions or doubts do you have concerning what you’ve been taught about Jesus and salvation? Over the next year or so, we will dig deep into Luke’s gospel to answer your questions and address your doubts. This is why Luke wrote his gospel. So, join us! And bring others who also have questions and doubts. 
 
NOTE: Go by the book stall in the foyer and pick up a free Luke Scripture Journal. These journals contain the gospel of Luke and offer a page for notetaking. They will be available until we run out.

Resources of the Week

Opportunities to Serve and Grow at High Pointe

Re:Connecting Around the Gospel Marriage Workshop | Saturday, December 7 | 8:30 AM to 12 PM 
This workshop is for any married couple to attend together. The workshop will present biblical wisdom then provide time for couples to reflect, process and pray together. We are planning to provide childcare. Click here to register.
 
Women’s Ministry Annual Christmas Brunch | Saturday, December 14 from 10 AM to 12 PM
Ladies, please plan to join the women at our annual Christmas brunch! Aimee Barnes will be speaking. Click here to register.
 
Meaningful Membership Class | Sunday, January 12 | 1:15 PM to 4:30 PM in the Old Choir Room
If you’re interested in learning more about High Pointe or pursuing membership with High Pointe, please mark your calendars Membership Class. This class will cover three main questions: What is the church and why should I join, what does High Pointe believe, and what do we expect of church members at High Pointe. Click here to register.
 
Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us. Childcare is available for ages 8 months through Pre-K. This session, we are offering the following classes from August 25 to December 5:

  • THIS WEEK all English-speaking life classes will begin a three-week class focusing on advent 

  • Kids Life Class:  For children K–5th grade  

  • Spanish Life Class | Discipulado: Principios y Prácticas
     

Sunday AM Preaching Schedule: Pray regularly for the ministry of the Word at High Pointe. Also, prepare for our gatherings by reading the sermon text, thinking it through, and asking questions about the text before Sunday. Here is our (tentative) preaching schedule designed to help you prepare for Sundays:  

  • December 1 | Luke 1:5-38 | Nothing is Impossible with God, Pastor Juan 

  • December 8 | Luke 1:39-56 | Christmas Praise, Pastor Juan 

  • December 15 | Luke 1:57-80 | Christmas Preparations, Pastor Juan 

  • December 22 | Luke 2:1-21 | Christmas Joy, Pastor Juan 

  • December 29 | Luke 2:22-52 | What Child is This?, Pastor Juan 

  • January 5 | Luke 3:1-20 | What Does Repentance Look Like? 

 Begin praying as you prepare to gather with us this Sunday at 10:00 am.
 
Gospel Partner of the Month: Reaching and Teaching International Ministries – B.M.
Reaching & Teaching International Ministries (RTIM) seeks to advance the gospel by partnering with local churches as they send qualified missionaries to make mature disciples, establish healthy churches, and train local leaders around the world.
 
You may know of RTIM because we sent Davey and Callie Davis and Jonathan and Elizabeth Painter through this sending organization. This month, we want to highlight our support for B.M. B and his wife served for seven years as missionaries in Central Asia, working in evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. After returning to the US, B spent six years as a global trainer, traveling around the world to equip international church leaders for ministry. He desires to see the gospel spread and churches established among the nations of Central Asia. B is a graduate of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife have three children.  
 
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours and on weekends. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1. 

Read More
Guyton Garland Guyton Garland

A Study of Luke’s Gospel Beginning this Sunday, November 24

As we approach Advent, we have the joy of beginning a study of Luke’s gospel. Luke’s gospel is unique in several ways. Luke is the longest book in the New Testament. As a result, we will be spending a good bit of time in Luke. Because it is so long, we will be taking some breaks along the way to preach other series. Luke also introduces material that is not in any of the other gospels. This makes a study of Luke interesting. Just what does Luke contribute to our understanding of Jesus and his gospel? New Testament theologians D. A. Carson and Doug Moo mention four themes that Luke emphasizes: 

  1. The Central Importance of God’s Plan: Luke wants to show that Jesus’ coming was no accident. He emphasizes God’s sovereign plan of salvation. Jesus came into the world, born of a virgin, grew in wisdom and stature as a human being while also being the divine Son of God who came to “seek and save the lost” (19:10). I take Luke 19:10 to be the central theme of Luke’s gospel. 

  2. The Salvation of the World: Of what are called the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), Luke is the only one who uses the word “salvation” as a noun. And he uses the verb “save” more than any other New Testament writer. As Carson and Moo argue, “Salvation is the thematic center of Luke’s gospel” (p.219). 

  3. The Inclusion of Gentiles: One of the unique emphases in Luke is how, in Jesus, salvation has also come to the Gentiles. So, while Simeon was waiting for the consolation of Israel, once he saw Jesus when he was presented in the temple, he was overjoyed and declared that now he could die in peace because he had “seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (2:29-32). Luke will show how Jesus welcomes the Gentile into this promised salvation. 

  4. The Dignity of the Outcasts: Luke shows how Jesus interacts with those marginalized by society: the poor, sinners, and women. In Luke’s gospel, the outcast are the ones who are usually responsive to the gospel, while the religious do not. In this light, Jesus connects our hearts with what we do with our money and material possessions. More than any other gospel writer, Jesus connects our spiritual condition with financial and material stewardship.  

  5. The Cost of Following Jesus: I would add one more theme in Luke’s gospel: counting the cost of following Jesus. Luke will show how many reject Jesus, but many also follow him. Still, whoever follows Jesus must count the cost. You must be willing to sacrifice all to follow him. 

 
This Sunday, November 24, we will begin our study of Luke’s gospel with a sermon anchored in Luke 1:1-4, but which will give us an overview to the entire gospel. Join us as we learn about this Jesus who came to seek and save the lost of all nations.

Resources of the Week

Opportunities to Serve and Grow at High Pointe

Re:Connecting Around the Gospel Marriage Workshop | Saturday, December 7 | 8:30 AM to 12 PM 
This workshop is for any married couple to attend together. The workshop will present biblical wisdom then provide time for couples to reflect, process and pray together. We are planning to provide childcare. Click here to register.

Women's Ministry Annual Christmas Brunch | Saturday, December 14 from 10 AM to 12 PM
Ladies, please plan to join the women at our annual Christmas brunch! Aimee Barnes will be speaking. Click here to register.
 
Meaningful Membership Class | Sunday, January 12 | 1:15 PM to 4:30 PM in the Old Choir Room
If you’re interested in learning more about High Pointe or pursuing membership with High Pointe, please mark your calendars Membership Class. This class will cover three main questions: What is the church and why should I join, what does High Pointe believe, and what do we expect of church members at High Pointe. Click here to register.

 Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us. Childcare is available for ages 8 months through Pre-K. This session, we are offering the following classes from August 25 to December 5:

  • THIS WEEK all English-speaking life classes are meeting together (Prayer, Discipleship, and Student Ministry)

  • Kids Life Class:  For children K–5th grade 

  • Spanish Life Class | Discipulado: Principios y Prácticas


NEXT WEEK all English-speaking life classes will begin a three-week class focusing on advent

Sunday AM Preaching Schedule: Pray regularly for the ministry of the Word at High Pointe. Also, prepare for our gatherings by reading the sermon text, thinking it through, and asking questions about the text before Sunday. Here is our (tentative) preaching schedule designed to help you prepare for Sundays:  

  • November 24 | Luke 1:1-4, Pastor Juan 

  • December 1 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 8 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 15 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 22 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 29 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

 Begin praying as you prepare to gather with us this Sunday at 10:00 am.
 
Gospel Partner of the Month: The Gospel Coalition
 
TGC is a fellowship of evangelical churches in the Reformed tradition deeply committed to renewing our faith in the gospel of Christ and to reforming our ministry practices to conform fully to the Scriptures. We have become deeply concerned about some movements within traditional evangelicalism that seem to be diminishing the church’s life and leading us away from our historic beliefs and practices. On the one hand, we are troubled by the idolatry of personal consumerism and the politicization of faith; on the other hand, we are distressed by the unchallenged acceptance of theological and moral relativism. These movements have led to the easy abandonment of both biblical truth and the transformed living mandated by our historic faith. We not only hear of these influences, we see their effects. We have committed ourselves to invigorating churches with new hope and compelling joy based on the promises received by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
Our desire is to serve the church we love by inviting all our brothers and sisters to join us in an effort to renew the contemporary church in the ancient gospel of Christ so that we truly speak and live for him in a way that clearly communicates to our age. As pastors, we intend to do this in our churches through the ordinary means of his grace: prayer, the ministry of the Word, baptism and the Lord’s Supper and the fellowship of the saints. We yearn to work with all who, in addition to embracing the confession and vision set out here, seek the lordship of Christ over the whole of life with unabashed hope in the power of the Holy Spirit to transform individuals, communities, and cultures.
You will find links to our Confessional Statement and our Theological Vision for Ministry—a vision rooted in the Scriptures and centered on the gospel.
 
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours and on weekends. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.

Read More
Guyton Garland Guyton Garland

A Model Church

On Sunday, we looked together at the Thessalonian effect as we began reading 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. Paul and his church planting missionary team gave thanks to God for the visible effects of the gospel in the lives of the new Christians. As Paul and Silas proclaimed the good news, the Holy Spirit worked to bring new life in Thessalonica, a city in Greece.   
 
Soon, everyone in the area was talking about the Thessalonian effect. Paul brought the gospel. The Holy Spirit opened eyes and people believed. The new believers imitated the faithful life of Paul, Silas and Jesus, and they became a model for others to follow. They were an everyday church in whom the visible effects of gospel conversion were seen daily. They also scattered to show and tell others the good news that Jesus was LORD. 
 
We called this the Thessalonian effect. 
 
May we respond to God’s grace as we follow Jesus and other faithful disciples, and may we purpose daily to be role models for others to see the Thessalonian effect in us.  
 
In chapter 2 of Thessalonians, we’ll consider the Tilting Act of Ministry.  

Resources of the Week

Opportunities to Serve and Grow at High Pointe

Senior Adult (55+) Luncheon | November 17                                                                            
The 55 + Seniors are having a luncheon at Luby's on Dessau and 183 on Sunday, November 17th, immediately after the morning service.
 
Re:Connecting Around the Gospel Marriage Workshop | Saturday, December 7 | 8:30 AM to 12 PM 
This workshop is for any married couple to attend together. The workshop will present biblical wisdom then provide time for couples to reflect, process and pray together. We are planning to provide childcare for ages 8 months through 2nd grade.  Click here to register.
 
Women's Ministry Annual Christmas Brunch | Saturday, December 14 from 10 AM to 12 PM
Ladies, please plan to join the women at our annual Christmas brunch! Aimee Barnes will be speaking. Click here to register.
 
Meaningful Membership Class | Sunday, January 12 | 1:15 PM to 4:30 PM in the Old Choir Room
If you’re interested in learning more about High Pointe or pursuing membership with High Pointe, please mark your calendars Membership Class. This class will cover three main questions: What is the church and why should I join, what does High Pointe believe, and what do we expect of church members at High Pointe. Click here to register.
 
Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us. Childcare is available for ages 8 months through Pre-K. This session, we are offering the following classes from August 25 to December 5:

  • Growing in Prayer 

  • Discipling: Principles and Practice 

  • Student Ministry Life Class | Spiritual Disciplines: For children 6th–12th grades 

  • Kids Life Class: For children K–5th grade 

Sunday AM Preaching Schedule: Pray regularly for the ministry of the Word at High Pointe. Also, prepare for our gatherings by reading the sermon text, thinking it through, and asking questions about the text before Sunday. Here is our (tentative) preaching schedule designed to help you prepare for Sundays:  

  • November 17 | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-17, Pastor Robert 

  • November 24 | Begin Study of Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 1 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 8 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 15 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 22 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 29 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

Begin praying as you prepare to gather with us this Sunday at 10:00 am.

Gospel Partner of the Month: The Gospel Coalition
 
TGC is a fellowship of evangelical churches in the Reformed tradition deeply committed to renewing our faith in the gospel of Christ and to reforming our ministry practices to conform fully to the Scriptures. We have become deeply concerned about some movements within traditional evangelicalism that seem to be diminishing the church’s life and leading us away from our historic beliefs and practices. On the one hand, we are troubled by the idolatry of personal consumerism and the politicization of faith; on the other hand, we are distressed by the unchallenged acceptance of theological and moral relativism. These movements have led to the easy abandonment of both biblical truth and the transformed living mandated by our historic faith. We not only hear of these influences, we see their effects. We have committed ourselves to invigorating churches with new hope and compelling joy based on the promises received by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
 
Our desire is to serve the church we love by inviting all our brothers and sisters to join us in an effort to renew the contemporary church in the ancient gospel of Christ so that we truly speak and live for him in a way that clearly communicates to our age. As pastors, we intend to do this in our churches through the ordinary means of his grace: prayer, the ministry of the Word, baptism and the Lord’s Supper and the fellowship of the saints. We yearn to work with all who, in addition to embracing the confession and vision set out here, seek the lordship of Christ over the whole of life with unabashed hope in the power of the Holy Spirit to transform individuals, communities, and cultures.
 
You will find links to our Confessional Statement and our Theological Vision for Ministry — a vision rooted in the Scriptures and centered on the gospel.
 
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours and on weekends. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1. 

Read More
Guyton Garland Guyton Garland

When the Church Becomes Like the World

We witness all sorts of horrendous evil all around us: violence against women and children, lust for revenge, and people calling right what God calls wrong. The unbelieving world does what is right in its own eyes, but that shouldn’t surprise us. We should not expect the world to look like Jesus. 
 
But how do we explain when the same worldly evil invades the church? How do we explain when the church looks like the world? When the church looks like the world, it is because the church is not submitting to and following Jesus. Instead of doing what Jesus commands, we do what is right in our own eyes. And when that happens, we blaspheme the name of King Jesus and we ruin our witness. Is it any wonder the world has little confidence in the church? 
 
The book of Judges is meant to function like a mirror held up to ourselves in order to expose our own hearts. Do we look more like the world (Judges), or do we look more like our King? If we don’t submit to our King, we too will become like the world. That is the message of Judges 19-21. 
 
Judges 19-21 is one of the most disturbing passages of Scripture, but it reminds us that because they had no king, Israel became like Sodom. That’s a strong indictment, but this is what the text shows, especially in chapter 19. There, in an echo of Genesis 19 and what happened in Sodom, the Holy Spirit shows us what happens when God’s people do what is right in their own eyes in relation to gender, marriage, and sexuality. In Judges 20, we see what happens when God’s people do what is right in their own eyes in relation to justice. And finally, in Judges 21, we see what happens when God’s people do what is right in their own eyes in relation to ethics: right and wrong. The result is (1) corrupt leadership, (2) corrupt people, (3) abuse of women, (4) violence and vengeance, and (5) situational ethics. In other words, Israel became like Sodom.  
 
The message of the book of Judges is Israel NEEDS a King. Why? Because good leadership lives out God’s word and obeys God’s will. Therefore, good leadership leads God’s people in God’s word to obey God’s will. So, Israel doesn’t just need a king. They need God’s king. A forever king. And so do we. This is why God gave us King Jesus. Jesus is our forever King who rules with justice and righteousness. He is perfectly pleasing to the Father. He is gentle and lowly toward his people. He is counter-cultural in his treatment of women and children, widowed and orphaned. And he is self-sacrificial, giving his life for sinners that the repentant may receive forgiveness.  
 
Now, all who believe in Jesus are empowered by his Spirit to submit to our King. Those who do not submit to King Jesus will look like the world. Those who submit to him look more and more like him. QUESTION: Who do you look like? More like the world or more like our King? 
We are a holy nation under a holy King through whom God is displaying his wisdom and glory to an evil world. Our world needs to see us and understand who our King is and what it is like to be his holy people.

Resources of the Week

Opportunities to Serve and Grow at High Pointe

Women's Ministry Annual Christmas Brunch | Saturday, December 14 from 10 AM to 12 PM
Ladies, please plan to join the women at our annual Christmas brunch! Aimee Barnes will be speaking. Registration coming soon.
 
Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us. Childcare is available for ages 8 months through Pre-K. This session, we are offering the following classes from August 25 to December 5:

  • Growing in Prayer 

  • Discipling: Principles and Practice 

  • Student Ministry Life Class | Spiritual Disciplines: For children 6th–12th grades 

  • Kids Life Class: For children K–5th grade 

 
Sunday AM Preaching Schedule: Pray regularly for the ministry of the Word at High Pointe. Also, prepare for our gatherings by reading the sermon text, thinking it through, and asking questions about the text before Sunday. Here is our (tentative) preaching schedule designed to help you prepare for Sundays:  

  • November 10 | Begin Study of 1 Thessalonians, Pastor Robert 

  • November 17 | 1 Thessalonians, Pastor Robert 

  • November 24 | Begin Study of Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 1 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 8 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 15 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 22 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

  • December 29 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan 

 
Begin praying as you prepare to gather with us this Sunday at 10:00 am.
 
Gospel Partner of the Month: The Gospel Coalition
 TGC is a fellowship of evangelical churches in the Reformed tradition deeply committed to renewing our faith in the gospel of Christ and to reforming our ministry practices to conform fully to the Scriptures. We have become deeply concerned about some movements within traditional evangelicalism that seem to be diminishing the church’s life and leading us away from our historic beliefs and practices. On the one hand, we are troubled by the idolatry of personal consumerism and the politicization of faith; on the other hand, we are distressed by the unchallenged acceptance of theological and moral relativism. These movements have led to the easy abandonment of both biblical truth and the transformed living mandated by our historic faith. We not only hear of these influences, we see their effects. We have committed ourselves to invigorating churches with new hope and compelling joy based on the promises received by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
 
Our desire is to serve the church we love by inviting all our brothers and sisters to join us in an effort to renew the contemporary church in the ancient gospel of Christ so that we truly speak and live for him in a way that clearly communicates to our age. As pastors, we intend to do this in our churches through the ordinary means of his grace: prayer, the ministry of the Word, baptism and the Lord’s Supper and the fellowship of the saints. We yearn to work with all who, in addition to embracing the confession and vision set out here, seek the lordship of Christ over the whole of life with unabashed hope in the power of the Holy Spirit to transform individuals, communities, and cultures.
 
You will find links to our Confessional Statement and our Theological Vision for Ministry—a vision rooted in the Scriptures and centered on the gospel.
 
On-Call Pastor 
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours and on weekends. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1. 


Read More
Guyton Garland Guyton Garland

The Pathology of Idolatry

Statistics have shown that a large percentage of children who grow up in church leave the faith after high school. Interestingly, this is not a new problem. The book of Judges begins with the alarming statement that the generation of Joshua and the next generation were faithful, but “there arose another generation after them that did not know the Lord” (Judges 2:7-10).

The book of Judges explains that Israel’s main problem was idolatry. “And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals” (Judges 2:11). More specifically, Judges 17-18 show the Pathology of Israel’s Idolatry. This warning serves us well because we, too, are in constant danger of making our own gods. Consider, the Pathology of Idolatry:

1. Idolatry is personal. Idolatry often begins as a personal response to something we think we need or want. Just as Micah’s mother needed a god to protect Micah from a curse (17:2-3), and just as Micah wanted a god to prosper him (17:12-13), and the five spies wanted assurance of the success of their mission (18:5-6), so we also tend to create gods that will fulfill or satisfy personal needs or wants. Whenever we feel God is not meeting our needs or satisfying our desires, we create gods who we think will. Whenever we are in a crisis or tragedy, and we believe God is not saving us, we turn to functional saviors for help.

Questions:

  • When you don’t think God is meeting your needs or satisfying your desires, what or who do you put your hope in? 

  • Whenever your life is falling apart, and you don’t think God is saving you, who or what do you turn to?


2. Idolatry is institutionalized. We are inclined to legitimize our idolatry by creating a religious system around it. Micah created an entire system of worship to support his idol and seek his prosperity (17:4-5, 12-13). Then, the tribe of Dan stole Micah’s priest and their entire religious system (18:27, 20-31). And we do the same. We feel better about our idolatry when we are joined by other worshipers. For example, consider the fitness industry. We go to temples (gyms). We seek counsel from priests (fitness experts and personal trainers). We make sacrifices (our bodies, time, money). To worship our god (our body, self, self-image).

Question: Where do you go to temple? What are you sacrificing? Who are your priests?

3. Idolatry is validated. I’ve already mentioned priests, but that’s how we validate our gods and our systems of worship. That’s what Micah did. He thought that having a Levite as a priest validated his religious worship (17:7-13).

Question: Who are your priests? Experts? Celebrities? Pundits? Politicians? Pastors? Influencers?

4. Idolatry spreads fast. The point of Judges 17-18 is to record just how quickly idolatry spread in Israel. These chapters show Israel’s religious decline. Judges 2:10 is proven here. Moses was faithful. Those who came after Moses, like his son Gershom. were faithful. But there arose another generation after that who did not know the Lord. Judges 18:30 names Moses’s grandson, Jonathan, as the Levite priest who was for hire. How quickly has idolatry spread in Israel.

Idolatry is foolish, empty, and deceptive. We think our gods will fulfill and satisfy us, but they won’t. They can’t! How do we address the power and spread of idolatry that originates in our own hearts? Two actions:

1. Repent. Consider the heart of our heavenly Father. He has every right to judge us. Instead, he offers forgiveness for all who repent. How? Because our idolatry has already been judged in Christ. So, confess your idolatry and return to God, in Christ, by the power of the Spirit.

2. True Worship. We combat false worship with true worship. The Father is looking for true worshipers (John 4:20-24). True worshipers are those who worship God on the basis of the truth of who Jesus is for us. Under the new covenant worship is no longer about a place. It is about a person: Jesus Christ. So, all of life is worship. We are to live our whole lives in a manner that is pleasing to God.

Of course, under the new covenant, worship is no longer about a place or an annual calendar. Worship is year round. We gather every Lord’s Day to hear from God and build one another up in the word. So vital is our weekly gathering to battling idolatry and pursuing holiness that God commands us in his word that we are not to forsake gathering together (Hebrews 10:23-24).

As we repent of our idolatry and worship the one true God, through Christ, by the power of the Spirit, we will treasure God above all else, and the things of this earth will grow strangely dim.

Resources of the Week

Members’ Meeting Updates

Thank you for all who were able to join us Sunday night for our members’ meeting. We encourage all members to make every effort to join us as this is the time we handle family business and care for our members together as a church. Here are some of the actions taken:

1. We received nine new members, two pending baptism. 

  • For a list of members affirmed, click HERE.

  • We encourage you to get to know our newest members.


2. The elders gave a budget report.

  • As of September 30, we are currently $67,071 behind in net income. But the first Sunday in October was the largest offering Sunday of the year, so we are encouraged. And October 2024 is already a stronger giving month that October 2023.

  • Join us in praying that the Lord will continue to grow us in our generous giving for the glory of God and the good of the gospel at home and around the world.


3. The congregation voted to approve changing our fiscal year to begin in October and   end in September.

  • This vote amended our constitution and now reads, The fiscal year of the church shall begin October first and end September thirtieth.

  • So, the 2025 budget we present will go from January 1 to September 30.

  • The proposed 2025 “stub” budget will go out in the next few weeks.


4. Ismael Hernandez, our deacon of Spanish ministry, gave a good report.

  • The Lord has blessed us with a growing number of Spanish-speaking members.

  • Please get to know all our members, including our Spanish-speaking members. We are one church doing life together.


5. The elders nominated Jack Delk to serve a second three-year term.

  • At our December meeting, we will vote to affirm Jack for a second term.

  • If you have any questions, talk to Jack or any of the elders.


6. Pastor Juan’s Comments may be found HERE.

Opportunities to Serve and Grow at High Pointe

High Pointe Pickleball Group and Men’s Ultimate Frisbee Group
If you’re interested in getting to know other members of High Pointe and get a little exercise in at the same time, Stephen and Kaitlyn Wehe have organized some fun groups. We play Pickleball every other Tuesday night in Taylor. And the men are going to start gathering every Saturday morning to Ultimate Frisbee. If you’re interested, feel free to reach out to Stephen at 405-808-7447.

Fujairah Mission Trip | November 15-19, 2024
If you are interested in going to the Middle East to see the world the Lord is doing in the emirate of Fujairah, contact pastor Juan: juan@highpointeaustin.org.

We are still making plans, but the flights will be approximately $1,300.00 round trip (from Austin to Dubai). We are still working out the details of the lodging, but those are dependent on who will go. So, those going will be responsible for their airfare, lodging, and food. If you are a church member and you’ve never been on an international mission trip, we want to provide a $500.00 scholarship. More details will be forthcoming.

One-Day Membership Class | Sunday, November 10 | 1:15 PM to 4:30 PM in the Old Choir Room
If you’re interested in learning more about High Pointe or pursuing membership with High Pointe, please mark your calendars for our One-Day Membership Class. This class will cover three main questions: What is the church and why should I join, what does High Pointe believe, and what do we expect of church members at High Pointe. You can register for the class online here.

Re:Connecting Around the Gospel Marriage Workshop | Saturday, December 7 | 8:30 AM to 12 PM
This workshop is for any married couple to attend together. The workshop will present biblical wisdom then provide time for couples to reflect, process and pray together. During and after the workshop, you will practice reconnecting with gospel hearts and postures, growing closer to Christ and one another thru gospel-centered communication and establishing new habits together. We are planning to provide childcare. Click here to register.
 
Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us. Childcare is available for ages 8 months through Pre-K. This session, we are offering the following classes from August 25 to December 5:

  • Growing in Prayer

  • Discipling: Principles and Practice

  • Student Ministry Life Class | Spiritual Disciplines: For children 6th–12th grades

  • Kids Life Class: For children K–5th grade

 
Sunday AM Preaching Schedule: Pray regularly for the ministry of the Word at High Pointe. Also, prepare for our gatherings by reading the sermon text, thinking it through, and asking questions about the text before Sunday. Here is our (tentative) preaching schedule designed to help you prepare for Sundays:  

  • November 03 | Judges 19-21, Pastor Juan

  • November 10 | Begin Study of 1 Thessalonians, Pastor Robert

  • November 17 | 1 Thessalonians, Pastor Robert

  • November 24 | Begin Study of Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan

  • December 1 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan

  • December 8 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan

  • December 15 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan

  • December 22 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan

  • December 29 | Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Juan


Begin praying as you prepare to gather with us this Sunday at 10:00 am.

Gospel Partner of the Month: The Gospel Coalition

TGC is a fellowship of evangelical churches in the Reformed tradition deeply committed to renewing our faith in the gospel of Christ and to reforming our ministry practices to conform fully to the Scriptures. We have become deeply concerned about some movements within traditional evangelicalism that seem to be diminishing the church’s life and leading us away from our historic beliefs and practices. On the one hand, we are troubled by the idolatry of personal consumerism and the politicization of faith; on the other hand, we are distressed by the unchallenged acceptance of theological and moral relativism. These movements have led to the easy abandonment of both biblical truth and the transformed living mandated by our historic faith. We not only hear of these influences, we see their effects. We have committed ourselves to invigorating churches with new hope and compelling joy based on the promises received by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.

Our desire is to serve the church we love by inviting all our brothers and sisters to join us in an effort to renew the contemporary church in the ancient gospel of Christ so that we truly speak and live for him in a way that clearly communicates to our age. As pastors, we intend to do this in our churches through the ordinary means of his grace: prayer, the ministry of the Word, baptism and the Lord’s Supper and the fellowship of the saints. We yearn to work with all who, in addition to embracing the confession and vision set out here, seek the lordship of Christ over the whole of life with unabashed hope in the power of the Holy Spirit to transform individuals, communities, and cultures.

You will find links to our Confessional Statement and our Theological Vision for Ministry—a vision rooted in the Scriptures and centered on the gospel.

On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours and on weekends. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.

Read More