The Peak Church – An Inclusive Methodist Church in Apex, NC

Katie Distefano Culpepper | Revelation 2:12-17 | Dear Church
Topics: Beliefs, Heart, Nature of God

Kyle Meier | Revelation 2:8-11 | Dear Church
Topics: Suffering, Comfort, Hardship

Today, we continue our conversation on Revelation 2:8-11! In this episode, Kyle explores what Jesus meant when he said their suffering would only last "10 days." Was he being literal or symbolic? Then, Kyle discusses the importance of finding others who have suffered the same things we have. Apparently, "misery loves company" is the Christian thing to do? Finally, Kyle talks more about comparative suffering and how disastrous it is both personally and politically. He opens up and shares his struggles with the Israel/Palestine conflict. Further, he invites us to consider what role suffering plays when we try to justify our own violence and destruction.

Kyle Meier | Revelation 2:1-7 | Dear Church
Topics: Order, Commitment, Passion

In today's episode of Footnotes, we continue the conversation about our brand new series on the Book of Revelation. Kyle starts with some interesting tidbits on when/how we ought to interpret the Bible symbolically, rather than literally. For example, we learn why Jesus is obsessed with lamps and what that has to do with the Christian life. Then, we talk a little more about the importance of spiritual mentorship. In case you don't know, The Peak offers a mentor ministry! Simply go to the link below to find more information. Finally, Kyle digs into the recent news story around AI and the dangerous road we are currently traveling. He opens up about whether he would change parts of his previous sermon on Artificial Intelligence (see April 27) and how Christians should tread lightly when using tools that might be bearing deadly fruit.

Kyle Meier | Numbers 22:21-31 | Recalculating
Topics: Curiosity, Certainty, Wisdom, Listening

In today's episode, we continue our discussion on the somewhat comical story of Balaam and his donkey. First, Kyle takes us deeper into Balaam's background as a non-Israelite prophet. What does it mean that God speaks to and through non-believers? Is this still happening today? Additionally, Kyle offers us some tools for what he calls "sequential discernment." For those of you wrestling with very BIG life-decision right now, this section is for you. Finally, we discuss another way that Kyle has tried to manipulate God's guidance...through the art of negotiation. What is the difference between processing God's guidance and trying to get out of it? How can you tell which one you're doing?

Kyle Meier | Luke 17:3-5 | Recalculating
Topics: Forgiveness, Reconciliation, Grudge

On this episode of Footnotes, we keep the conversation going on bitterness, resentment and how often we have to extend forgiveness. To start, Kyle digs into some of the special numbers found in scripture (7, 12, 40, etc.). Did you even know there are special numbers found in our Bibles? What do they mean? And what does it have to do with forgiveness? Then, we dig a little bit more into the research coming out of the Gottman Institute. We learn how to fight back against contempt and save our marriages. Finally, Kyle opens up about whether reconciliation is possible in every relationship. What is required for genuine reconnection? Does the Bible offer us any tips here?

Kyle Meier | Acts 2:42-47 | Recalculating
Topics: Sharing, Possessions, Generosity