BLOG | STRAIGHT TO THE HEART
What is a Sabbatical?
From Pastor Juan
It’s hard to believe that we’ve been doing ministry together for twenty-one years now. Shepherding High Pointe, alongside faithful elders, has been one of the greatest joys of my life. But as you likely know, even the things that bring us great joy are costly and tiring. The elders have graciously granted me a sabbatical during the months of July and August to allow me to take some time away with Jeanine for the purpose of rest and reflection in order to return to High Pointe refreshed and ready for the next season of ministry together.
The word sabbatical comes from Sabbath, which simply means rest. We know rest is good because God rested on the seventh day after having created/worked the previous six. God blessed this seventh/Sabbath day and declared it holy (Genesis 2:2-3). The biblical idea of rest is connected with the thought that God invites us to join Him in His rest. We enter that rest now by faith (Hebrews 4:1-5), but we are looking for a final Sabbath when we will enter into eternal rest with God (Hebrews 4:6-11).
The purpose of my sabbatical is primarily rest, though I will be working on a writing project here and there. During the month of July, Jeanine and I will travel throughout California, Oregon, and Washington, enjoying several national parks. Then, for the month of August, we will go to our usual place of rest – the beach in Florida. Please pray for our safe travels on the road, that we would be able to rest well, even in a tent, and that the Lord would continue to knit mine and Jeanine’s hearts together as we encourage one another with the word of God.
Thank you, High Pointe! Thank you for your love for me and my family and your continual support and prayers. And thank you elders for this great gift. Our love for you is without bounds. Know Jeanine and I will miss you greatly.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org
Resources of the Week
Five Things to Pray for Your Pastor While He’s on a Sabbatical
Life at High Pointe
Want to know what’s happening at High Pointe? Check out our weekly announcements and upcoming events to stay informed and connected with the life of our church!
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:
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
July 5 | Isaiah 65-66 | Yahweh Answers: Judgment and the New Creation | Pastor Robert Cline
July 12 | Matthew 5:1-12 | Kingdom Blessings | John Thompson
July 19 | 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 | Strength in Weakness | Pastor Mark Cambranis
July 26 | 2 Corinthians 1:12-24 | Austin Burns
August 2 | Psalm 73 | Refuge: What Worship Does | Pastor Craig Horton
August 9 | New Series: 2 Peter 1:1-11 | Grace Gives Godliness | Pastor Robert Cline
August 16 | 2 Peter 1:12-15 | Essential Pastoral Reminders | Pastor Robert Cline
August 23 | 2 Peter 1:16-21 | Trustworthy Witness and Word | Pastor Robert Cline
August 30 | Luke 18:18-30 | What Must I Do to Inherit Eternal Life? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
September 6 | Luke 18:31-43 | The Joy of Spiritual Sight | Pastor Juan Sanchez
September 13 | Luke 19:1-10 | Salvation and the Fruits of Repentance | Pastor Juan Sanchez
September 20 | 2 Peter 2:1-10 | Don’t Be Deceived by False Teachers | Pastor Robert Cline
September 27 | 2 Peter 2:11-22 | Beware! It Doesn’t End Well for Deceivers
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: North Africa – Team Expansion We are privileged to partner with the K family in North Africa. For 15 years, the Ks have been reaching unbelievers in a predominantly Muslim country (99%). And yet, the body of Christ is growing in that nation.
Some ways you may be praying: 1. Pray for a healthy, fruitful church led by godly, growing, local leaders. 2. Pray for these believers/leaders, especially as they face unique opportunities and challenges. 3. Pray for the K family – for a Jesus-centered home and joyful hearts. 4. Pray for the K family’s financial provision.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
The Good. The Bad. The Justified.
From Pastor Juan
“Suppose you were to die today and stand before God and he were to say to you, ‘Why should I let you into my heaven?’ what would you say?”
How would you answer that question. What is the basis of God accepting you into heaven? In the parable, Jesus exposes the most common answer – “You must be a good person.” This is the answer that the major religions of the world offer. But Jesus reveals that for those who hold that view, there will be a shocking reversal on the last day. God justifies the ungodly who humbly rely on God’s mercy instead of proudly relying on their own righteousness.
The Good. The good is the “morally upright person.” The person who relies on himself. How do you know you’re relying on self? You make much of yourself, and you look down on others (v.9). In other words, self-righteousness leads to self-exaltation. Self-righteousness is deceptive, and it is damning.
The Bad. The point is not that God accepts bad people over good people. The point is that we’re all bade and deserve God’s judgment. The question is, “Do you recognize that you are bad or are you too busy judging others? If we’re to have any hope, we must recognize our unrighteousness and humble ourselves.
The Justified. What does it look like to humble ourselves before God?
1. Stop trying to tell God all the reasons he should accept you.
When you pray, are you telling God who you are and what you’ve done?
Do you recount everything you’ve done as if to win God’s favor?
Do you attend, serve, give in order to impress God?
These are all signs you are relying on your own righteousness.
2. Admit you are unrighteous and that your sin is first and foremost against a holy God.
This is hard to do because most of us want to think we’re good people.
True sorrow over sin leads to repentance – a desire to make things right.
3. Rely on God’s mercy for forgiveness.
The tax collector cried out for God to atone for his sins.
Our sins are forgiven because Jesus, the only good one, received God’s judgment on the cross in our place.
God justifies the ungodly who humbly rely on God’s mercy instead of proudly relying on their own righteousness. Are you relying on Christ alone for your justification or self? Humble yourself and turn away from self and turn to Christ. Rely on God’s mercy. Everyone who humbles himself will be exalted.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector – A sermon by R. C. Sproul
This Man went to His House Justified – A sermon by John Piper
God Justifies the Ungodly – a podcast by Sinclair Ferguson
What If I Feel Deserted by God – Sinclair Ferguson
How Do I Humble Myself – David Mathis
Life at High Pointe
No Life Classes over the Summer – Join a Summer Reading Group This summer, we are encouraging members of High Pointe to read and discuss books that are spiritually edifying. We have both men’s, women’s groups, and coed groups. To find out more about a group, go to the church app or contact Austin Burns at austin@highpointeaustin.org
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:
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
July 5 | Isaiah 65-66 | Yahweh Answers: Judgment and the New Creation | Pastor Robert Cline
July 12 | Matthew 5:1-12 | Kingdom Blessings | John Thompson
July 19 | 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 | Strength in Weakness | Pastor Mark Cambranis
July 26 | 2 Corinthians 1:12-24 | Austin Burns
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: North Africa – Team Expansion We are privileged to partner with the K family in North Africa. For 15 years, the Ks have been reaching unbelievers in a predominantly Muslim country (99%). And yet, the body of Christ is growing in that nation.
Some ways you may be praying: 1. Pray for a healthy, fruitful church led by godly, growing, local leaders. 2. Pray for these believers/leaders, especially as they face unique opportunities and challenges. 3. Pray for the K family – for a Jesus-centered home and joyful hearts. 4. Pray for the K family’s financial provision.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Persistent Prayer
From Pastor Juan
As Christians living in a broken, unjust world, suffering is inevitable and so is being wronged. And if you’ve ever been wronged or faced injustice, then you know something about waiting for vindication. Maybe you’re facing some difficulty just because you’re a Christian – being disrespected by an unbelieving spouse, being discriminated against at work or school just because you call yourself a Christian, or maybe you lose your job or a relationship because of your Christian convictions. Jesus reminded his disciples that this life may get so bad that they would desire the days of the Son of Man (Luke 17:22). How are we to endure suffering and wrong as we await the return of Jesus when we will once and for all receive our vindication?
We endure suffering by a faith that persistently longs for the return of Christ and our vindication. More specifically, with this perspective in view, Jesus reminds us that we endure through persistent prayer. When life gets bad, Jesus says, we “ought to always pray and not lose heart” (18:1). To make his point, Jesus shares a parable about a godless, unrighteous judge. If he gave justice to the powerless widow who refused to give up, “Will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night” (18:7)?
When we fail to believe God to be God, and are unwilling to wait on the Lord, we will try to take matters into our own hands and exact our own vengeance instead of going to the Lord in prayer. Jesus reminds us that there is a better way – persistent prayer. What justice do you need from God? Run to him first. Be honest like Job or Habakkuk. Ask God to help you in the moment like Nehemiah. When you don’t have words to pray, ask the Spirit to give you the words like Paul says. Invite others to pray with you and for you. Join others in praying for them. Gather with the church when we pray.
We are longing for our final vindication when Christ returns and rights all wrongs. Until then, we endure TODAY by a faith that persists in prayer, longing for the day of our vindication at the return of Christ. We cry day and night, “How long, O Lord?” And the answer comes back, “Wait just a little while longer.”
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org
Resources of the Week
The Unjust Judge – A sermon by R. C. Sproul
How Do I Persist in Prayer – Ask Pastor John (Piper)
On the Use and Importance of Corporate Prayer – Mark Dever
Life at High Pointe
No Life Classes over the Summer – Join a Summer Reading Group This summer, we are encouraging members of High Pointe to read and discuss books that are spiritually edifying. We have both men’s, women’s groups, and coed groups. To find out more about a group, go to the church app or contact Austin Burns (austin@highpointeaustin.org).
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:
June 14 | Luke 18:9-14 | The One Who Humbles Himself will be Exalted | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
July 5 | Isaiah 65-66 | Yahweh Answers: Judgment and the New Creation | Pastor Robert Cline
July 12 | Matthew 5:1-12 | Kingdom Blessings | John Thompson
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: North Africa – Team Expansion We are privileged to partner with the K family in North Africa. For 15 years, the Ks have been reaching unbelievers in a predominantly Muslim country (99%). And yet, the body of Christ is growing in that nation.
Some ways you may be praying: 1. Pray for a healthy, fruitful church led by godly, growing, local leaders. 2. Pray for these believers/leaders, especially as they face unique opportunities and challenges. 3. Pray for the K family – for a Jesus-centered home and joyful hearts. 4. Pray for the K family’s financial provision.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
The Restoring Love of God in Christ
From Pastor Robert
Isaiah 61 shows us the heart of God in Christ. He delights to reverse the fortunes of weak, broken, and sinful people. He comes near to those who are weary, ashamed, grieving, and burdened, bringing good news to the poor, binding up the brokenhearted, and comforting those who mourn. He gives beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, and praise in place of despair.
The LORD loves to restore ruins and make friends of His enemies.
That means we do not have to hide our needs from Him.
Too often, we think of the Christian life mainly in terms of duty, effort, and pressure. But when obedience is separated from the love of God, it begins to feel heavy. Isaiah 61 reminds us that the One who calls us is also the One who comforts us. The One who sends us is the One who first restores us. Jesus has already loved God and neighbor perfectly for us and in our place. His love is not a reward for obedience. His love is the very power that fuels it.
When the love of God in Christ truly settles into our hearts, obedience becomes a glad response to mercy rather than an added burden to carry. We forgive because we have been forgiven. We serve because we have been loved. We move toward others because Christ first moved toward us. We know our weakness, and we ask Jesus to give us His strength and love.
And as He restores us, He sends us. The comfort we receive from Jesus becomes the comfort we offer to others. The hope He gives us becomes the hope we carry into weary places. The restored are sent to rebuild the ruins, loving God and others in union with Christ.
So, bring your burdens and hurts afresh to Christ today. Rest in His love.
Ask Jesus to open your eyes to a discouraged believer, a hurting friend, or a lonely neighbor who needs His hope through you.
Ask Jesus to direct you to people He places in your path who are different from you in many ways, but who need you to show and tell them the good news.
In His love, Jesus still restores His people, and He still sends His people, going with them in love for the lost even to the ends of the earth.
Rest in the love of Christ this week as you live as His wholehearted follower to the glory of God.
Helpful Links
When the unreached people move into your neighborhood
Is it wrong to see Jesus in the Old Testament?
Be a living example of God’s Love
Life at High Pointe
Men’s Pickleball Event: Men, join us for a great time of fellowship, fun, and pickleball at Pickleland in Plfugerville from 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. Bring $5 to play!
Ladies’ Tea Party: Join us for a lovely Ladies’ Tea Party at church in the fellowship hall from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of fellowship, laughter, tea, sweet treats, and meaningful conversation. Tickets are $8 per person and include food and drinks. Space is limited to 35 ladies, so sign up today! Click here to register.
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:
June 7 | Luke 18:1-8 | Persistent Prayer | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 14 | Luke 18:9-14 | The Pharisee and the Publican | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Middle East Ministries It is our joy to support one of our High Pointe families serving in the Middle East. We will not refer to them by name to protect their identity and location, but you may pray for them as you work through our membership directory.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord may send a like-minded and similar life-stage family (or two) to serve alongside them. And pray that we would care for and encourage them well.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
VBS Emerald Crossing 2026
From Pastor Robert
Don’t forget to invite neighbors and relatives to our Emerald Crossing Vacation Bible School, this week May 31–June 3, 6–8 p.m., with a special Wednesday Family Night for all ages. There will be engaging groups for children and adults, in both English and Spanish.
Kids will “travel” across a playful Irish landscape—through quiet valleys, beside “still waters,” and over “emerald” hills—as they unpack each phrase of Psalm 23 in ways they can see, feel, and remember. Each day will highlight a rich truth: the Lord provides, the Lord protects, the Lord is with us, the Lord leads us home.
Through fun Bible stories, lively music with a Celtic flair, creative crafts (like “sheep” and “staff” projects), and high‑energy games inspired by Irish countryside life, children will learn about Jesus, the Good Shepherd who knows their name, calms their fears, and guides their steps. Wednesday night will be a family night with games and food for all. You won’t want to miss the drama and skits.
Helpful Links
Don’t let the Darkness Get You Down (song) Short Facebook Video
Life at High Pointe
Combined Life Class – Baptist 101: This Sunday is the final week of our Life Class for adults, students, and children, meeting in the Old Choir Room. Throughout this class, we have been exploring why HPBC is a Baptist church and why that matters for our worship, leadership, membership, discipleship, and life together as the body. Come ready to learn, ask questions, and deepen your engagement in the life of our church family.
Emerald Crossing VBS 2026: May 31-June 3 from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. Registration is NOW open! Please register for the area where you are willing to volunteer and contribute (for example, snacks and decorating donations). You can also register children, students, and adults for VBS classes. It’s not too late to tell your friends so they can mark their calendars for this year’s VBS!
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:
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 |The Servant Brings Freedom and Joy | Pastor Robert Cline
June 7 | Luke 18:1-8 | Persistent Prayer | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 14 | Luke 18:9-14 | The Pharisee and the Publican | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Middle East Ministries It is our joy to support one of our High Pointe families serving in the Middle East. We will not refer to them by name to protect their identity and location, but you may pray for them as you work through our membership directory.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord may send a like-minded and similar life-stage family (or two) to serve alongside them. And pray that we would care for and encourage them well.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
What Will Christ’s Return Be Like?
When it comes to the last day, that is, the day of Jesus’s return, there is much confusion, deception, and madness. Many are confused as to what the Bible teaches in light of current events taking place in the world today. The Bible warns us that false messiahs who will deceive people leading them to say, “look here or there.” And some Christians obsess over end times to the degree that it is all they think about.
What is the CURE for the “Last Days Confusion, Deception, and Madness”? The ANSWER: The simple, clear teaching of Jesus about the last day. In Luke 17:20-27, Jesus teaches his disciples about the day of his return. First, he responds to the Pharisee’s question in vv.20-21. Then, he turns his attention to teaching his disciples. On Sunday, I gave us three sets of words that will help us understand the day of Jesus’s return so that we won’t be confused, deceived, or distraught. As to the Day of Jesus’s return…
It will be VISIBLE and UNDENIABLE (17:22-25) | Everyone will see it. So, don’t be confused or deceived.
It will be SUDDEN and SURPRISING (17:26-33) | So, be ready and hold on loosely to the things of this world.
It will be a day of SALVATION and JUDGMENT (17:34-37) | That Day will result in a great separation! Jesus will welcome all who turned away from the kingdoms of this world and bowed down to King Jesus, and will cast out into judgment all who reject him.
So, imagine that day. Will you be welcomed or cast out? Unbeliever, come now and fall at King Jesus’s feet. Christian, long for and pray for the return of Christ. That is the day we will see our salvation!
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org
Resources of the Week
The Return of Christ – Alan Bandy
The Two Ages – Benjamin Gladd
Four Ways Jesus’s Second Coming Changes Us Now – The Gospel Coalition
The Day of the Lord – Jason DeRouchie
Life at High Pointe
New Joint Life Class: We are offering a joint Life Class from May 17th - May 31st on learning what it means to be a Baptist – Baptist 101. Over three weeks, this combined Life Class for adults, students and children will explore why HPBC is a Baptist church and why that matters for our worship, leadership, membership, discipleship and life together as a body. Come ready to learn, ask questions, and deepen your engagement in the life of our church family.
Emerald Crossing VBS 2026: May 31-June 3 from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. Registration is NOW open! Please register for the area where you are willing to volunteer and or contribute (for example, snacks and decorating donations). You can also register children, students, and adults for VBS classes. It’s not too late to tell your friends so they can mark their calendars for this year’s VBS!
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:
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
June 7 | Luke 18:1-8 | Persistent Prayer | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 14 | Luke 18:9-14 | The Pharisee and the Publican | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Middle East Ministries It is our joy to support one of our High Pointe families serving in the Middle East. We will not refer to them by name to protect their identity and location, but you may pray for them as you work through our membership directory.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord may send a like-minded and similar life-stage family (or two) to serve alongside them. And pray that we would care for and encourage them well.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
A Thankful Heart
Are you characterized by thankfulness? True salvation produces a heart that gives thanks for the gifts and praises God as the giver. And when you consider what you deserve (judgment) and recognize what Jesus offers (a salvation that includes cleansing, healing, and wholeness), you will affirm the gift of salvation you’ve received in Christ and affirm God as the source of that salvation.
That’s what produces a thankful heart – reflecting on our great salvation moves us to fall down at Jesus’s feet, like the Samaritan leper in Luke 17:11-19, praising God and thanking Jesus for our glorious salvation. May we be marked by thankfulness!
The good news is that we can grow in thankfulness by practicing thankfulness. So, as we go about our week, let’s do so:
In our private devotions (Psalm 7:17) – count your blessings, name them, and give thanks.
In our prayers for one another (Ephesians 1:15-16) – look for evidence of grace in one another’s lives. Look for how God is working in your brothers and sisters and give thanks.
In our gatherings (Ephesians 5:18-20) – as we rehearse the gospel in our gatherings as we pray the word, read the word, sing the word, preach the word, and see the word in the ordinances, give thanks to God with your voice, in song, with your body, lifting holy hands.
As we’re scattered (Psalm 57:9) – as we go about our day at work or recreation, let us be marked by thankfulness to God. That will allow us to be faithful witnesses in a cynical and thankless world.
We’ve received the greatest gift of all. We were unclean, separated from God, deserving judgment. But by faith in Christ, we’ve been cleansed and brought near to God and his people. We cannot help but praise God and give thanks!
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Christian Thankfulness: What It Is ( and Isn’t) – Desiring God, John Piper
What Does It Mean to Praise? – Modern Reformation, W. Robert Godfrey
Book Recommendations on Thankfulness:
The Grumbler’s Guide to Giving Thanks – Dustin Crowe
Practicing Thankfulness – Sam Crabtree
Growing in Gratitude – Mary Mohler
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes We will offer a joint Life Class from May 17th to May 31st. Over three weeks, this combined Life Class for adults, students, and children will explore why HPBC is a Baptist church and why that matters for our worship, leadership, membership, discipleship and life together as a body. Come ready to learn, ask questions, and deepen your engagement in the life of our church family.
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:
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
June 7 | Luke 18:1-8 | Persistent Prayer | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 14 | Luke 18:9-14 | The Pharisee and the Publican | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Middle East Ministries It is our joy to support one of our High Pointe families serving in the Middle East. We will not refer to them by name to protect their identity and location, but you may pray for them as you work through our membership directory.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord may send a like-minded and similar life-stage family (or two) to serve alongside them. And pray that we would care for and encourage them well.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Let’s Help One Another Fight Sin!
At High Pointe, we want to become and make wholehearted followers of Jesus among all peoples. But what does that mean? What does that look like?
In Luke 17:1-10, Jesus gives us a glimpse. Wholehearted followers of Jesus:
Take sin seriously (17:1-3).
Forgive others freely (17:3-4).
Live by faith genuinely (17:5-6).
And serve Jesus humbly (17:7-10).
There is a lot to that, but to review: We can only live that kind of wholehearted life by faith in Jesus and a love for one another.
We can fight sin together by lovingly confronting one another when we sin, patiently guiding one another toward confession of sin and true repentance, and graciously forgiving one another when we repent. Use these questions to help you think on these things more deeply:
Are there any areas of your speech, online behavior, or counsel that might be causing a younger believer to stumble?
What practical habits or accountability structures do you have in place to guard yourself and your community against temptation?
Do you have someone in your life to whom you can confess your sin and ask for guidance as you repent?
Is there someone you need to speak to about sin but you’ve been avoiding it?
Is there someone that you need to forgive but have been withholding it?
As wholehearted followers of Jesus, this should be a normal and regular pattern in our lives together as a church: rebuke with the goal of repentance that results in forgiveness. It may feel awkward to confront a brothers or sister, but it is vital to our holiness together. By faith in Jesus, we can do what is awkward for God’s glory and our good.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
5 Things You Should Know About Fighting Sin – Ligonier
7 Traits of True Repentance – Jim Newheiser
10 Things to Know About Repentance – Chris Brauns
Using Small Groups to Fight Sin – 9Marks
7 Tips for Confronting a Friend in Sin – Crossway
Understanding and Cultivating Forgiveness – CCEF Video
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes NO LIFE CLASSES, Sunday, May 10. We will offer a join Life Class from May 17th - May 31st on learning what it means to be a Baptist – Baptist 101. Join us!
Emerald Crossing, VBS 2026 | May 31 - June 3 from 6:00-8:30pm
Registration is open! Click the link to register your kids, volunteer, donate snacks/decor, or attend an adult class!
Men’s Breakfast | May 16 at 7:30am
Brothers, join us for a men's breakfast in the Fellowship Hall at High Pointe. We’ll enjoy a great meal (eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, fruit, and more), meaningful fellowship, and a time of encouragement.
Memorial Day Picnic | May 24 at 5pm
Join us as we gather as a church for fellowship, fun, and BBQ. Bring the whole family! The church will provide the BBQ, but members are asked to bring the sides and desserts. Check out the list below to see what you can contribute!
If your last name begins with:
A-E: bring desserts
F-M: bring cold sides
N-Z: bring hot sides
Teens and college students: bring beverages
Please bring your own folding chairs and blankets if you are planning to eat outside, and bring outside yard games for fun activities!
If anyone would like to volunteer to help set-up/clean-up please reach out to Beth Hyman for more details.
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:
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
June 7 | Luke 18:1-8 | Persistent Prayer | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 14 | Luke 18:9-14 | The Pharisee and the Publican | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 21 | Luke 18:15-17 | Let the Children Come | Pastor Juan Sanchez
June 28 | Isaiah 63:7-64:12 | Yahweh, Hear this Prayer and Come Down to Save
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Middle East Ministries It is our joy to support one of our High Pointe families serving in the Middle East. We will not refer to them by name to protect their identity and location, but you may pray for them as you work through our membership directory.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord may send a like-minded and similar life-stage family (or two) to serve alongside them. And pray that we would care for and encourage them well.
On-Call Pastor To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
You Are Not Enough (And That's Good News). Share it this week.
From Pastor Robert
You've got this! Pull yourself up by your bootstraps! Hustle harder! Just follow these 5 steps to personal development and all will be well. You can change your future. You can change who you are…if you just follow these simple steps.
It is hard to escape the relentless noise. Every podcast, every motivational post, every self-help bestseller is broadcasting the same signal: you have what it takes to make life work in this broken world. But what if that signal is wrong?
Isaiah 59 tells us plainly that we are not self-sufficient. That self-reliance is not a strength. It is self-deception.
Writing 2,700 years ago, the prophet Isaiah looked at a people stumbling in moral darkness while convinced they were doing fine. His diagnosis could not have been clearer: "Your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God." (Isaiah 59:2) The wall between you and God is not His doing. It is yours. And no amount of hustle, self-improvement, positive thinking, or spiritual effort can tear it down from your side.
Then something remarkable happens. Isaiah describes a God who saw the full depth of Israel's brokenness, searched the entire horizon for someone able to help, found no one who could solve the sin problem. He didn’t abandon his promises or his people.
So His own arm brought salvation. He came as the Divine Warrior, armed with righteousness and zeal. He came as Christ the Redeemer, specifically for those who are desperate enough to admit they cannot save themselves. He came in flesh, in the person of Jesus Christ, to accomplish what you never could: pay the moral debt you owe your Creator, give you a new heart to love Him and your neighbor, and stir in you a new desire to work for the flourishing of the community around you.
You are not enough. You never were. But He is. And that is not an insult. It is an invitation. Stop striving. Stop pretending. Turn to the One who intervenes when no one else can.
That is the best news you will ever hear. It’s news that we need to share with others.
Who can you point to Jesus this week?
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
WHAT TO SAY TO SOMEONE IN GRIEF 5 MINUTE VIDEO
Life at High Pointe
Emerald Crossing Vacation Bible School | May 31-June 3 | 6:00-8:30pm
Online registration is NOW OPENfor VBS! Please register for the area where you are willing to volunteer and/or contribute (snacks and decorating help, for example). You can also register children, students, and adults for VBS classes now. It’s not too early to tell your friends so they can mark their calendars for this year’s VBS!
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 31th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Immanuel Church, Fujairah, UAE
We have the privilege of partnering with pastor Jesse Brannen and Immanuel Church of Fujairah. Jesse and his wife, Delaine, are from the United States and came to Immanuel Church in 2021 along with their four children. Prior to coming to Immanuel, Jesse served as an Assistant Pastor at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he previously completed a pastoral internship. He holds an MA in Biblical & Theological Studies from Gulf Theological Seminary.
Immanuel Fujairah is A Church Proclaiming and Displaying the Gospel of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ - Immanuel - God with Us. To learn more, visit Immanuel Fujairah online
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
The Servant No One Expected (Isaiah 52:13 - 53:12)
From Pastor Robert
Written 700 years before Jesus was born, this passage is one of the most remarkable in all of Scripture. The prophet Isaiah paints a portrait of a Suffering Servant so precise and detailed that readers across centuries have stopped and asked: who is this?
God Says: "Behold, My Servant"
Before anyone else speaks, God speaks. He announces a Servant who will be "high and lifted up and exalted." This language is used elsewhere in Isaiah 6 for God Himself on His throne. But then we read that this same Servant is so disfigured that people are appalled at the sight of Him. Glory through suffering. Exaltation through humiliation. This is God's way, and it is not the way we would have written the story.
We Said of the Servant: "Not Him"
Isaiah then gives us the crowd's sobering response. The Servant grew up quietly, without an impressive appearance or earthly status. He looked ordinary; not like a movie star. He was "despised and rejected, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." People turned their faces away. They wrote Him off and looked elsewhere. This isn’t the Savior we want.
We also recognize ourselves in that crowd. We often prefer a Savior who meets our expectations. A powerful, triumphant, and visibly impressive Servant Savior. But Jesus came humbly and simply.
We Confess: "Our Wounds, His Cross"
The watching community finally sees and understands the Servant came to suffer in their place, for their sins: "He was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed."
The innocent sinless Servant was not suffering for anything He had done. He was suffering for everything we had done. God loaded upon the Servant our moral guilt, our wandering, our rebellion and "laid on him the iniquity of us all." And like a lamb led quietly to slaughter, the Servant did not resist. His silence was not weakness; it was the willing, loving surrender of God’s own son to be the sacrifice for our sins.
Substitution: God saves us by the innocent One taking the place of the guilty. Our wounds and sorrows and sins carried by Him.
God Gets the Last Word: "It Is Finished"
God Speaks again. The Servant's death was not a tragedy; it was Plan A. The Servant's soul was made a guilt offering for sin, and through that offering, "many are accounted righteous." Yet, the Servant will "see his offspring, prolong his days, and be satisfied". This isthe language of resurrection and reward.
Jesus Himself, hanging on the cross put it this way: "It is finished" (John 19:30). Not a cry of defeat, but of complete victory over sin and death. The work is done. The debt is paid. The substitutionary sacrifice accepted.
Two Ways to Respond This Week
Isaiah 53 meets us right where we are.
1. Read again slowly and personally. Open your Bible to Isaiah 53 and read it aloud, replacing "our" and "we" with your own name. Let the personal pronouns do their work. These are not just words for ancient Israel they are words written about your sin, your healing, and your peace.
2. Offer a simple prayer of thanks to Christ the Suffering Servant Savior. You do not need elaborate words. "Lord, thank you that your Servant bore what I deserved" is a prayer God delights to hear. Rest today in the truth that His finished work is enough and there is nothing you need to add to that finished work of Jesus.
The One the world refused is the Savior we all need. His wounds are our healing. His cross is our peace. His victory is our hope.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
WHAT TO SAY TO SOMEONE IN GRIEF 5 MINUTE VIDEO
Life at High Pointe
Emerald Crossing Vacation Bible School | May 31-June 3 | 6:00-8:30pm
Online registration is NOW OPEN for VBS! Please register for the area where you are willing to volunteer and/or contribute (snacks and decorating help, for example). You can also register children, students, and adults for VBS classes now. It’s not too early to tell your friends so they can mark their calendars for this year’s VBS!
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 31th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Immanuel Church, Fujairah, UAE
We have the privilege of partnering with pastor Jesse Brannen and Immanuel Church of Fujairah. Jesse and his wife, Delaine, are from the United States and came to Immanuel Church in 2021 along with their four children. Prior to coming to Immanuel, Jesse served as an Assistant Pastor at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he previously completed a pastoral internship. He holds an MA in Biblical & Theological Studies from Gulf Theological Seminary.
Immanuel Fujairah is A Church Proclaiming and Displaying the Gospel of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ - Immanuel - God with Us. To learn more, visit Immanuel Fujairah online
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
The Hole in Our Holiness
In 2013, a popular evangelical pastor wrote a book titled, “One Way Love: Inexhaustible Grace for an Exhausted World.” He argued that God’s grace is one-directional without any precondition, merit, or reciprocal obligation on our part. He was concerned about legalistic “performancism,” and his solution was to free people from the weight of “doing” by emphasizing “who we are in Christ” already.
His critics warned, however, that his emphasis on the gospel of free grace undermined the law of God. That is, by only emphasizing the gospel of radical grace, he denied the gospel’s demand (the law) for an obedience that leads to holiness. This tension between law and gospel in the Christian life is not new.
The key question we have to consider is, “Does the gospel of radical grace free us from us from obeying the commands of God – the law?” And the clear answer Jesus gives in Luke 16:17-18, is an emphatic NO! Though we are no longer under the law of Moses (circumcision, dietary restrictions, festivals), we are under the law of Christ. But we still relate to the Old Testament law as Scripture. Our guide for how to apply it to ourselves as Christians is Jesus. And that is what Jesus does in Luke 16:18.
There is a great danger in preaching a gospel that does not also demand righteousness. On June 21, 2015, the author of “One-Way Love” resigned from his pastorate after admitting to an extramarital affair. The author’s critics argued that such an antinomian-leaning emphasis on unconditional grace, with an underemphasis on the law’s sanctifying role, was not unrelated to his moral fall. In other words, what we believe matters; our theology guides our actions.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
The Hole in Our Holiness – book by Kevin DeYoung
Preach the Good News of Guilt and Justification – a sermon by Kevin DeYoung
He Bore Our Sins that We Might Life to Righteousness – a sermon by John Piper
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 31th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Immanuel Church, Fujairah, UAE
We have the privilege of partnering with pastor Jesse Brannen and Immanuel Church of Fujairah. Jesse and his wife, Delaine, are from the United States and came to Immanuel Church in 2021 along with their four children. Prior to coming to Immanuel, Jesse served as an Assistant Pastor at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he previously completed a pastoral internship. He holds an MA in Biblical & Theological Studies from Gulf Theological Seminary.
Immanuel Fujairah is A Church Proclaiming and Displaying the Gospel of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ - Immanuel - God with Us. To learn more, visit Immanuel Fujairah online
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
How to Read the Bible Like a Christian
Don’t we all read our Bibles like Christians? Well, all who profess faith in Christ are Christians, and, we expect, all Christians read their Bibles. So, what do I mean?
Think of the first Christians. The only Bible they had was what we now call the Old Testament. That was Jesus’s Bible. This was the apostle’s Bible. How did they read it? THAT is the question, and it’s an important one.
We get a clear sense as to how Jesus read his Bible from Luke 24:25-27, 44-49. Jesus is the LENS through which we read all of Scripture. But that still leaves the question of HOW the Old Testament commands apply to us. And THAT is the question before us this Sunday when we gather to consider Luke 16:14-18.
There was much confusion in the early church as some Jews (Judaizers) went around trying to convince Gentiles to become circumcised and observe the Old Testament dietary laws and festivals. Thankfully, Jesus and the apostles addressed this concern, and this Sunday, we will learn from Jesus how to read our Bibles, in particular, the Old Testament as Christians. Join us!
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
10 Reasons the Old Testament Matters to Christians – Jason DeRouchie
When My Old Testament Became Christian – Jason DeRouchie
The Law of God – Stephen Wellum
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 31th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
April 12 | Luke 16:14-18 | Learning to Read Your Bible Like a Christian | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Immanuel Church, Fujairah, UAE
We have the privilege of partnering with pastor Jesse Brannen and Immanuel Church of Fujairah. Jesse and his wife, Delaine, are from the United States and came to Immanuel Church in 2021 along with their four children. Prior to coming to Immanuel, Jesse served as an Assistant Pastor at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he previously completed a pastoral internship. He holds an MA in Biblical & Theological Studies from Gulf Theological Seminary.
Immanuel Fujairah is A Church Proclaiming and Displaying the Gospel of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ - Immanuel - God with Us. To learn more, visit Immanuel Fujairah online
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Help Provide a Welcoming Environment for our Guests on Easter Sunday
Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you . . .
Philippians 4:21-22
We rejoice over the many visitors the Lord brings to our gatherings each week. This Sunday, April 5, is Easter, and we are likely to welcome an increased number of visitors, some for the very first time. You already welcome visitors with kindness and love each Lord’s Day. Visitors take notice. While we praise God for His work in us that opens our hearts to visitors, let’s continue to grow in Christian hospitality on Sundays. The following suggestions are just some ways we can help our guests feel welcome and at home each Sunday, but especially this coming Easter Sunday.
Leave the parking spaces closest to the entrances for our first time guests and senior adults. We have clearly marked our guest parking area. We ask that our members honor our guests by leaving these spaces open for visitors. For those who are able, we ask that you utilize the farther parking spaces so our senior adults will not have as far to walk. Also, please note that if our parking lot should happen to be wet, it may be slick, so help one another to the building.
Greet everyone you see with a smile whether you know them or not. From the time you step out of your vehicle, greet everyone with a friendly smile and tell them how glad you are to see them. Use the time from the parking lot to welcome visitors.
Introduce yourself to those you don’t know. If you don’t know someone, take the time to greet them and introduce yourself. Make an effort to meet a new person or family each Sunday.
Assist those who don’t seem to know where they are going. Remember, you may know where everything is, but our guests are not familiar with our facilities. Take time to show them around and offer to take them to where they need to go.
Fill the seats at the front of the auditorium first when you enter. We all run behind schedule at times for various reasons. Latecomers and guests do not like to parade before the entire congregation on their way to find a seat. If we fill the seats up front (and scoot toward the middle), then visitors and latecomers can slip in without having to walk in front of the entire congregation.
Don’t rush off after the service. Instead, take a few minutes to greet visitors. Thank them for attending our services and invite them to come again.
Bring your guests to the foyer (Connection Center) for a free gift bag. We have prepared gift bags for our guests, which contain information about our church and other free materials. Gift bags will also be available in the nursery.
Invite visitors to a meal at a restaurant or in your home after the service. One of the best ways to get to know someone is to share a meal together. Practice Christian hospitality by inviting someone to eat lunch with you after worship.
Invite first-time visitors to come back and worship with us again. You will be amazed how much weight a personal invitation carries. Encourage visitors to return and worship with us on a regular Sunday.
I thank God for you, High Pointe, and the love and fellowship we share with one another. Right or wrong, visitors will form an opinion about our church within the first few minutes after they arrive. Let’s make every effort to make our visitors feel welcome through genuine, loving Christian hospitality.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Wess Huff on The Resurrection- Video (Share with your unbelieving friends)
The Final Days of Jesus – a TGC Study Course
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 31th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 12 | Luke 16:18 | What the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Immanuel Church, Fujairah, UAE
We have the privilege of partnering with pastor Jesse Brannen and Immanuel Church of Fujairah. Jesse and his wife, Delaine, are from the United States and came to Immanuel Church in 2021 along with their four children. Prior to coming to Immanuel, Jesse served as an Assistant Pastor at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he previously completed a pastoral internship. He holds an MA in Biblical & Theological Studies from Gulf Theological Seminary.
Immanuel Fujairah is A Church Proclaiming and Displaying the Gospel of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ - Immanuel - God with Us. To learn more, visit Immanuel Fujairah online
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Fifth Sunday Church-Wide Fellowship at 5PM
This Sunday night we will continue our Fifth Sundays Church-Wide fellowships. As a reminder, we are reclaiming Sunday nights to come together as a church. Our aim on these evenings is to be able to have church wide conversations and build stronger relationships. We hope you make every effort to join us.
Our theme for Sunday night is Worship through Singing. We will have a brief time of teaching on worship. We will offer a definition of worship, then share our principles for worship at High Pointe, along with our values for music in worship. After that, we will spend the rest of the evening singing together through some of our favorite hymns and songs. This will be a wonderful opportunity to include our children and teach them about the importance of congregational singing.
As it is a fellowship, bring your favorite baked goods – cookies, brownies, etc. - something we don’t need utensils for. We look forward to having a wonderful time together in fellowship and singing.
Join us this Sunday at 5:00 p.m.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
On Congregational Singing – 9Marks Pastors’ Talk Podcast
Sing to One Another – article by Matt Boswell
What If I Don’t Like My Church’s Music? - book by Matt Boswell
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 31th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 12 | Luke 16:18 | What the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Our Work in Cuba
1. Predica Fiel
In our approach to missions at High Pointe, we not only seek to send our best, but we also want to equip and encourage those who are already serving in the field. One of the ways to do that is to provide training for national pastors and missionaries. Predica Fiel is a training ministry that equips pastors, missionaries, and church leaders in expositional teaching and preaching. They provide training workshops throughout the island of Cuba and the Spanish-speaking world.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord would grant them continued opportunities to train pastors, missionaries, and teachers. And pray that the Lord would provide all the resources they need to do their work.
2. First Baptist Church & Seminary, Santa Clara, Cuba
High Pointe established a partnership with FBC Santa Clara in the 1990s. In fact, the Lord allowed High Pointe to have a significant role in helping the church start a seminary to raise uppastors and seminaries.
Pray that the Lord would provide all the seminary needs to train pastors and missionaries.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Discipleship, Distraction and Focused Attention (Isaiah 50:4-11)
From Pastor Robert
Set Your Face: The War for Your Attention
Ours may not be the most distracted age in human history, but we certainly have more attention stealers today than ever before. Notifications, news feeds, endless content, and the ever-present visual noise from our devices challenge even the most disciplined among us. The average person picks up their phone over 90 times a day, and for many of us, the first interaction we have each morning is with our smartphones. That often sets the tone for a day filled with distraction, and distraction can be genuinely dangerous to our discipleship.
A Morning Habit That Changed Everything
The prophet Isaiah introduces us to a radically different way of living. Isaiah 50:4 tells us that each morning, our Servant Savior Jesus Christ listened for his Father's voice: "Morning by morning he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught." Jesus himself explains this disciplined listening in John 12:49–50: "The Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment, what to say and what to speak... So whatever I speak, I speak as the Father has told me." Those morning listening times set the course for his day. They shaped everything he said and did.
Focused, Not Distracted
When opposition came, beatings, shame, mockery, and certain death, he did not flinch or look for an exit. "I have set my face like a flint" (Isaiah 50:7). He was focused and determined, not distracted. Nothing could pull him off course. Our Servant Savior was on a mission of love for his people, and his faithful obedience carried him all the way to the cross and through it to resurrection glory. In this, he is also our model; his attention was fixed entirely on his Heavenly Father.
Love Is the Strongest Motivation
Here is the thing about discipline and focus: rules and routines alone will never sustain them for long. Guilt and self-improvement don’t motivate us for long. What truly frees us from the grip of distraction is not willpower but love. A deep and growing awareness of how much God loves us in Christ Jesus by the power of the Spirit is what drives lasting change.
The Servant Savior went to the cross not out of obligation but out of love for his people. Romans 5:8 reminds us: "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." When that love becomes real to us, something shifts. We no longer come to God's word out of duty or guilt. We come because we are loved, because the Father who spoke to his Son morning by morning is the same Father who has welcomed us into his family through faith in Christ. We come because we want to hear from the One who gave everything for us.
Distraction loses its pull when we are captured by something greater. And there is nothing greater than the love of God in Christ.
Making Real Changes
So, what has your attention these days? What distractions consistently keep you from hearing God in the Scriptures?
Start by honestly identifying what pulls you away from God's word, prayer, and purposeful living. Then make real changes. Put the phone in another room. Guard the morning. Build rhythms of quiet and attentive listening. God's word brings wisdom and love, instruction for living, and words of both comfort and challenge, but only if we are present enough to hear it.
Distraction rarely announces itself. It simply accumulates, quietly, until our attention span for God slowly shrinks and he begins to feel distant. But maybe he is not distant. Maybe we are just distracted.
The Same Spirit Lives in You
The good news is that the same Spirit who sustained the Servant Savior lives in all who are in Christ by faith. Through union with him, we have access to that same focused, flint-faced determination. Wholehearted discipleship demands our attention, and wholehearted love for Christ is what makes that possible.
Ask the LORD to set your face…to listen daily… and never look back.
Listen to Sunday’s Message HERE.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 24th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
March 22 | Luke 15:1-32 | Lost and Found | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 12 | Luke 16:18 | What the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Our Work in Cuba
1. Predica Fiel
In our approach to missions at High Pointe, we not only seek to send our best, but we also want to equip and encourage those who are already serving in the field. One of the ways to do that is to provide training for national pastors and missionaries. Predica Fiel is a training ministry that equips pastors, missionaries, and church leaders in expositional teaching and preaching. They provide training workshops throughout the island of Cuba and the Spanish-speaking world.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord would grant them continued opportunities to train pastors, missionaries, and teachers. And pray that the Lord would provide all the resources they need to do their work.
2. First Baptist Church & Seminary, Santa Clara, Cuba
High Pointe established a partnership with FBC Santa Clara in the 1990s. In fact, the Lord allowed High Pointe to have a significant role in helping the church start a seminary to raise uppastors and seminaries.
Pray that the Lord would provide all the seminary needs to train pastors and missionaries.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Count the Cost
According to Michael Easter, America has a crisis of comfort. In his book, The Comfort Crisis, he argues that modern life has become so physically and psychologically comfortable that it is harming our health, happiness, resilience, and sense of meaning. Easter’s point is that we grow though difficulty and hardship, so if we avoid it, we won’t grow.
Is it possible that American Christianity has a comfort crisis? Is it possible that we’ve bought into the desire for comfort and ease such that we don’t like it when the Christian life gets hard? Rather than inviting people to follow him because he has “a wonderful plan” for them, Jesus warns those who would follow him that they had better count the cost because he demands wholehearted obedience.
If we would follow Jesus, we must be prepared to renounce everything, count the cost of following him, and be salty in this sinful world (Luke 14:25-35). While Jesus’s message was to those who wanted to enter into the kingdom, this hard word serves to remind us of what we signed up for. So, let us remind ourselves and count the cost by asking ourselves some heart questions:
What do you LOVE more than Jesus?
What in your life is competing with wholehearted devotion to Jesus?
What rules your time and your money?
What do you treasure most?
Renouncing all that competes with Jesus may be hard, but Jesus is worth it. Jesus does have a wonderful plan for your life, and it may include difficulty, hardship, suffering, and possibly evendeath. But what we gain when we follow Jesus is much more than what we lose – eternal life (Matthew 19:29).
Listen to Sunday’s Message HERE.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
The Cost of Discipleship – A Sermon by R. C. Sproul
How to Count it All as Loss – by John Piper
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 24th. Click here to see which Life Classes are being offered!
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:
March 15 | Isaiah 50:4-11 | The Willing and Suffering Servant Christ | Pastor Robert Cline
March 22 | Luke 15:1-32 | Lost and Found | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 12 | Luke 16:18 | What the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Our Work in Cuba
1. Predica Fiel
In our approach to missions at High Pointe, we not only seek to send our best, but we also want to equip and encourage those who are already serving in the field. One of the ways to do that is to provide training for national pastors and missionaries. Predica Fiel is a training ministry that equips pastors, missionaries, and church leaders in expositional teaching and preaching. They provide training workshops throughout the island of Cuba and the Spanish-speaking world.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord would grant them continued opportunities to train pastors, missionaries, and teachers. And pray that the Lord would provide all the resources they need to do their work.
2. First Baptist Church & Seminary, Santa Clara, Cuba
High Pointe established a partnership with FBC Santa Clara in the 1990s. In fact, the Lord allowed High Pointe to have a significant role in helping the church start a seminary to raise uppastors and seminaries.
Pray that the Lord would provide all the seminary needs to train pastors and missionaries.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Dining With Jesus
In Luke 14:1-24, Jesus was dining with the Pharisees, and while they were watching him (as to accuse him), he was watching them as to rebuke them. They like to grab the best seats so they may be made much of, and they like to invite people to meals who could repay them. But Jesus warns, those who exalt themselves will be humbled (Luke 14:11), and those who welcome those who cannot repay will be repaid on the last day (Luke 14:14).
In that light, we encouraged one another to honor and serve those who cannot benefit us. Following Jesus’ example, who humbled himself to become a servant (Philippians 2:5:1-11), so also, we ought to serve those who cannot repay us. Of course, we are to begin in the household of God, opening our lives and our homes to one another. But let’s not stop there. Let’s also consider how to express the love and compassion of Christ to those who are needy in our city. In an effort to encourage us to do that, here is a list of possible faith-based non-profits that you may want to research and get involved with:
Christian Poverty and Homelessness ministries
Mission Possible Austin – Christian ministry serving the urban poor with outreach to the homeless, addiction recovery support, and programs for at‑risk children and families in East Austin.
Baptist Community Center Mission – Ministry of Austin Baptist Association providing food, clothing, and assistance to low‑income families and seniors in East Austin.
Foundation for the Homeless – Faith‑based organization coordinating shelter, housing placement, and support for families experiencing homelessness.
Casa Marianella – Christian hospitality ministry offering shelter, food, and legal/settlement support for refugees, asylum seekers, and homeless immigrants.
The Other Ones Foundation / Esperanza Community – Nonprofit with Christian roots serving people experiencing homelessness through dignified work opportunities, basic services, and a transitional shelter community.
Hunger and food ministries (Christian / church‑based)
Austin Baptist Chapel – Angel House Soup Kitchen – Church‑based daily soup kitchen feeding people who are hungry, many of whom are homeless or working poor.
Hope Food Pantry Austin – Pantry operating from a church campus, providing free groceries to low‑income individuals and families in Central Austin.
Under‑resourced children and families (faith‑based)
Manos de Cristo – Christian nonprofit offering low‑cost dental care, a food pantry, education programs, and back‑to‑school supplies for low‑income families and children.
LifeWorks – Community nonprofit (not all explicitly Christian in branding) with programs for youth experiencing homelessness, foster care transition, and at‑risk families; collaborates with local churches and faith partners.
Miracle Foundation – Austin‑based nonprofit with Christian origins working to support vulnerable children and orphans (primarily internationally) through family‑based care and education.
Larger regional organizations with strong church partnerships
(These are not all explicitly “Christian” in branding but are widely supported by churches and used by congregations for mercy ministry.)
Central Texas Food Bank – Regional food bank supplying many church pantries and mobile food distributions serving low‑income families and children.
Meals on Wheels Central Texas – Delivers meals to low‑income seniors and adults with disabilities; many volunteers and referring partners are local churches.
NOTE: This is not an officially approved list of non-profit services. Be sure to do your research and participate wisely.
We encourage members who are interested in mercy ministry and coordinating those ministries at High Pointe to let us know.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Thinking Through Your Church’s Mercy Ministry – Kevin De Young
Evangelism is Mercy Ministry – Elliot Clark
Obligations, Stewardship, and the Poor – Kevin De Young
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 24th. Click here to see which Life Classes will be offered!
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:
March 8 | Luke 14:25-35 | Wholehearted Devotion | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 15 | Isaiah 50:4-11 | The Willing and Suffering Servant Christ | Pastor Robert Cline
March 22 | Luke 15:1-32 | Lost and Found | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 12 | Luke 16:18 | What the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Our Work in Cuba
1. Predica Fiel
In our approach to missions at High Pointe, we not only seek to send our best, but we also want to equip and encourage those who are already serving in the field. One of the ways to do that is to provide training for national pastors and missionaries. Predica Fiel is a training ministry that equips pastors, missionaries, and church leaders in expositional teaching and preaching. They provide training workshops throughout the island of Cuba and the Spanish-speaking world.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord would grant them continued opportunities to train pastors, missionaries, and teachers. And pray that the Lord would provide all the resources they need to do their work.
2. First Baptist Church & Seminary, Santa Clara, Cuba
High Pointe established a partnership with FBC Santa Clara in the 1990s. In fact, the Lord allowed High Pointe to have a significant role in helping the church start a seminary to raise uppastors and seminaries.
Pray that the Lord would provide all the seminary needs to train pastors and missionaries.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Will Only a Few be Saved?
Have you ever missed a flight because you were running late, and the flight crew closed the door to the plane? Once that door is closed, they are not allowed to open it. Jeanine and I saw this happen to someone during our recent trip to Canada. It’s an awful feeling.
Jesus reminds us of another door that will be shut, and it will catch many by surprise. While many in this world think that the door to heaven is wide (“all doors lead to God”), Jesus reminds us that it is a narrow door. Jesus is the ONLY way to God. No one comes to the Father except through him. And to enter through that narrow door, you must repent of your sins and receive him as King and Lord. So, Jesus commands, “Strive to enter through the narrow door” (Luke 11:24). When Jesus returns the door will be shut and no one will be able to enter (Luke 11:24-30).
We don’t enter by our own works. To “strive” means wholehearted faith-fueled action, as opposed to half-hearted effort. No one is automatically IN. Everyone must make every effort by faith to enter in. So, the question is, in what or whom are you trusting for salvation? What door are you trying to enter in through? Whoever does not enter in by the narrow door of Jesus will be excluded from the kingdom on the last day (11:31-35). So, strive to enter through the narrow door before it closes.
It’s one thing to miss a flight because they close the door. You can always catch another flight. It’s another thing to miss the kingdom because you waited around to enter in. The door is open now to all who would enter. So, enter by faith through Jesus.
And for those who have entered, tell others while the door is still open. Invite them to enter in. The good news is that while the kingdom starts small, it will grow to a multitude that no one will be able to count.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Evangelism: Sharing the Good News – a 9Marks E-Journal (full of helpful articles)
The Sovereignty of God and Evangelism – by Paul Helm
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes | Resume January 25
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Our spring classes are from January 25th - May 24th. Click here to see which Life Classes will be offered!
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:
March 1 | Luke 14:1-24 | Dining with Jesus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 8 | Luke 14:25-35 | The Cost of Following Jesus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 15 | Isaiah 50:4-11 | The Willing and Suffering Servant Christ | Pastor Robert Cline
March 22 | Luke 15:1-32 | Lost and Found | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 12 | Luke 16:18 | What the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 19 | Isaiah 53 | The Atoning Servant Who Suffers and Rises Again | Pastor Robert Cline
April 26 | Isaiah 59:14-21 | The Only Feasible Option: Yahweh Himself will Accomplish It | Pastor Robert Cline
May 3 | Luke 17:1-10 | Our Life Together | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 10 | Luke 17:11-19 | A Thankful Heart | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 17 | Luke 17:20-37 | When Will the Kingdom Come? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
May 24 | Isaiah 60 | Light and Glory in the Risen City | Pastor Robert Cline
May 31 | Isaiah 61:1-11 | Spirit Filled Servant Brings Jubilee Freedom | Pastor Robert Cline
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: Our Work in Cuba
1. Predica Fiel
In our approach to missions at High Pointe, we not only seek to send our best, but we also want to equip and encourage those who are already serving in the field. One of the ways to do that is to provide training for national pastors and missionaries. Predica Fiel is a training ministry that equips pastors, missionaries, and church leaders in expositional teaching and preaching. They provide training workshops throughout the island of Cuba and the Spanish-speaking world.
Please pray that the Lord will give them favor and fruitfulness in their work. Pray that the Lord would grant them continued opportunities to train pastors, missionaries, and teachers. And pray that the Lord would provide all the resources they need to do their work.
2. First Baptist Church & Seminary, Santa Clara, Cuba
High Pointe established a partnership with FBC Santa Clara in the 1990s. In fact, the Lord allowed High Pointe to have a significant role in helping the church start a seminary to raise uppastors and seminaries.
Pray that the Lord would provide all the seminary needs to train pastors and missionaries.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Let the Nations be Glad
Pastor Robert Cline
As we looked at Isaiah 49 this past Sunday, we remembered that the Bible story is also our story, and that we read the Bible forwards and backwards. When we read the Old Testament, we look and read ahead to how the apostles were instructed by Jesus himself to understand the Law and the Prophets and the Writings. When we read the New Testament, we look back to understand the references to Old Testament signals and shadows pointing forward to Christ, who is the center of the Scriptures.
This is what Paul and Barnabas did in Acts 13:47. When Paul and Barnabas faced fierce opposition in Pisidian Antioch from the Jews, they quoted Isaiah 49:6 directly: I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth."
Do you see how they applied the mission of the Servant King Jesus to the church? Paul and Barnabas understood themselves, and the Antioch church that sent them, as a community of servants extending the Servant’s mission to announce the gospel of God's light to every nation.
When Paul and Barnabas applied this text to their missionary work, they were saying, "We share in the Servant's mission." They weren't claiming to BE the Servant, but rather to be his faithful witnesses. In union with Christ the King, the church participates in his global work of sharing the light of the gospel with all peoples.
Acts 13:1–3 shows a diverse, Spirit-led congregation—prophets and teachers from multiple backgrounds, fasting and praying together who sent out Paul and Barnabas as lights to the nations pointing others to forgiveness and salvation in Christ and starting churches around Asia Minor.
High Pointe, we also are servant witnesses sent into our neighborhoods, workplaces, and world to shine the light of the gospel. Like the Antioch church, we pray, send, go, and support those who carry the message to distant places.
LORD, show us the nations right here in Austin. Father, raise up laborers for the harvest around the world. May your Holy Spirit give us boldness, ability and opportunity this week to shine the light of Christ.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes | Resume January 25
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Spring Life Classes will resume January 25. Click here to see which Life Classes will be offered!
High Pointe/9Marks Weekender for Pastors, Church Leaders, and Seminarians | February 19-22
At our weekender, we will host over 90 participants (pastors, church leaders, seminary students). The goal of the weekender is to join us and observe an elders’ meeting, talk about church health, and participate in a worship gathering and members’ meeting. Our aim is to model church health and encourage other churches.
Please pray for those 90+ participants as they prepare to join us, and pray that it would be a fruitful time of encouragement. If you are interested in volunteering, reach out to Austin Burns at austin@highpointeaustin.org.
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:
February 22 | Luke 13:10-35 | Will Only a Few be Saved? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 1 | Luke 14:1-24 | Dining with Jesus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 8 | Luke 14:25-35 | The Cost of Following Jesus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 15 | Isaiah 50:4-11 | The Willing and Suffering Servant Christ | Pastor Robert Cline
March 22 | Luke 15:1-32 | Lost and Found | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: The International Mission Board of the SBC
The International Mission Board (IMB) exists to serve Southern Baptists in carrying out the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
With almost 47,000 churches cooperating to send missionaries through the IMB, we can support over 3,500 missionaries full-time in the international mission field. Take some time to work through the IMB website to learn more about how your regular giving through High Pointe is supporting Great Commission work worldwide.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.
Welcoming Visitors
High Pointe Family, you do such a great job of welcoming visitors each Sunday. Thank you for your practice of Christian hospitality. Our prayer is that we may grow even more in being a welcoming church. To that end, let me encourage you in these ways:
Come early and stay late. Many visitors coming to a new church will arrive early to find a seat. Many of our members arrive late. So, make every effort to come early to greet visitors as they arrive. Then, stay late to have conversations with them.
Seek out and engage visitors. When you are in the auditorium, look around for new faces, and engage with them. Introduce yourself. Welcome them officially to our gathering. Ask them if they have any questions.
Introduce them to someone else. Take an opportunity to help them make a connection by introducing them to someone that has something in common with them. If they are a college student, introduce them to another college student. If they are single, introduce them to other singles. If they speak Spanish, introduce them to other Spanish-speakers. You get the idea. It helps people to make a connection when they are visiting a church.
Show them around. Offer to show visitors where they need to go: nursery, restrooms, Life Classes, church office. While our building is simple and known to us, it can be confusing to visitors.
Guide them to the Connection Center. We have a Connection Center in the foyer staffed by a friendly group of volunteers. They are there to serve our visitors. Walk visitors to the Connection Center so they may fill out a card so we can know of their visit.
In God’s kindness, we receive a good number of visitors each week. You do such a great job of making them feel welcome, and we thank you for that. Let’s look for ways we can grow even more in showing the love of Christ through simple greetings and hospitality.
Opportunities to Serve
(For Opportunities to Serve at High Pointe, click HERE)
Volunteering in nursery or children’s ministry is a great way to get to know others at High Pointe and to serve our parents on Sunday mornings and other church gatherings. Reach out to Erin at erin@highpointeaustin.org.
God has blessed each of us with unique gifts and talents, and at High Pointe, we believe serving is how we use those gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom.
Whether you have 30 minutes a week or several hours, there's a place for you to serve in our children's ministry, as greeters, with the hospitality team, media/tech support, building and grounds, safety, community outreach efforts, and through administrative support. Reach out to find out more today: info@highpointeaustin.org.
Resources of the Week
Life at High Pointe
Spring Life Classes | Resume January 25
Life Classes are meant to equip High Pointe for life as a Christian. Spring Life Classes will resume January 25. Click here to see which Life Classes will be offered!
High Pointe/9Marks Weekender for Pastors, Church Leaders, and Seminarians | February 19-22
At our weekender, we will host over 90 participants (pastors, church leaders, seminary students). The goal of the weekender is to join us and observe an elders’ meeting, talk about church health, and participate in a worship gathering and members’ meeting. Our aim is to model church health and encourage other churches.
Please pray for those 90+ participants as they prepare to join us, and pray that it would be a fruitful time of encouragement. If you are interested in volunteering, reach out to Austin Burns at austin@highpointeaustin.org.
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:
February 15 | Isaiah 49:1-13| The Mission Extended | Pastor Robert Cline
February 22 | Luke 13:10-35 | Will Only a Few be Saved? | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 1 | Luke 14:1-24 | Dining with Jesus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 8 | Luke 14:25-35 | The Cost of Following Jesus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 15 | Isaiah 50:4-11 | The Willing and Suffering Servant Christ | Pastor Robert Cline
March 22 | Luke 15:1-32 | Lost and Found | Pastor Juan Sanchez
March 29 | Luke 16:1-17 | You Cannot Love God and Money | Pastor Juan Sanchez
April 5 | EASTER | Luke 16:19-31 | The Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Juan Sanchez
Begin praying as you prepare to join us this Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Gospel Partner of the Month: The International Mission Board of the SBC
The International Mission Board (IMB) exists to serve Southern Baptists in carrying out the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
With almost 47,000 churches cooperating to send missionaries through the IMB, we can support over 3,500 missionaries full-time in the international mission field. Take some time to work through the IMB website to learn more about how your regular giving through High Pointe is supporting Great Commission work worldwide.
On-Call Pastor
To better care for you, High Pointe, we have an “on-call” pastor available for emergencies after office hours. To reach the on-call pastor, call 512-837-7725, extension 1.