The Power of Words: Fall 2025 Worship Series
Words are powerful. They can create and destroy, build up and tear down, unite and divide. They reveal what’s in our hearts and shape who we are, especially the words we say to ourselves. They can have a lasting impact on others for good or evil. The Bible has a lot to say about the words we use, from Proverbs to Jesus to James. Our Fall Worship series will explore how God’s powerful Word, present at the beginning of time, is a model for how we use our words to profoundly shape us and others.
September 7th
The Power of God’s Words (Welcome Sunday/Communion)
God’s Word carries several meanings. Through God’s word the world was created. Through God’s Word made flesh, we are newly created. In God’s Word we read the history of the relationship between Creator and created as well as how God desires us to live. God’s words bring light and life. The serpent’s words brought death and alienation. Which words are shaping your life?
Reflection Questions: What words do you listen to? To what do you give power to shape who you are? How does God’s Word bring you light and life?
September 14th
The Power of Words to Shape Us
Matthew 12:33-37; James 3:2-5a
Our words reveal who we are, direct where we go, and shape who we will be. That’s powerful! Jesus warned us that our words indicate the status of our hearts. Which is why James instructs us that if we bridle our words, like horses, we can direct our hearts. In fact, our words are so important that Jesus says we will be held accountable for them. So what words are you speaking? And how do they reveal your heart, direct your path, and shape your being?
Reflection Questions: Reflect on the words you say to yourself and others. What does it reveal about your heart? How is it shaping you? How might using self-control align your words with God’s Word?
September 21st
(Kailey Stephens preaching)
September 28th
The Power of Words on Others
Proverbs 18:21, Matthew 5:21-22, James 3:2b-10
Sticks and stones will break my bones but words can never hurt me. Jesus says that’s not true. Words can kill in more ways than one. We are surrounded by hurtful words: judgment, sarcasm, derogatory remarks, gossip, and hatred that is so often spoken in our society. Perhaps thats why James calls the tongue a “restless evil, full of deadly poison.” Sometimes, that same tongue goes to church on Sunday and praises God. What can we do about the evil words all around us? How can we keep our tongues from participating?
Reflection Questions: Think of a time when your words hurt someone else and a time you were hurt with words from another. What was the lasting impact of those words? How would you respond differently in the future? In what ways can you keep evil words from coming out of your mouth?
October 5th
The Positive Power of Words (World Communion Sunday)
Ephesians 4:29; James 1:19-20; Colossians 4:6; Proverbs 16:23-24
God’s Word instructs us that we aren’t just to refrain from evil words, but we are to actively use our words to build other up and give grace. Words of love, encouragement, and grace come out of our mouths when we have listened to God’s Word about ourselves and others, listen more than we speak, and keep our anger in check. Everyday we choose what to say to others and to ourselves. Speak Life!
Reflection Questions: At the end of each day, write down all the positive words you spoke to others as well as the positive words spoken to you. Soon you will be intentionally looking for ways to build others up and speaking life into all you meet!
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