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Ultimate Outcomes is a non-profit organization founded on the fruit of the 30-plus years Pastor Richard Elwell and his wife Marty spent in church ministry, developing sermons and Bible studies that would help their congregants discern and apply God’s truth. Richard was a firm believer that the outcomes in our lives result from what ideas we believe and follow.
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In this message, we explore how each of us, like stones, are meant to be joined together as part of God’s household, with Jesus as our cornerstone. Our purpose and value come from being active parts of this spiritual community, rather than remaining in isolation. Through this, God shapes us, teaching us unity and preparing us for the ultimate joy o…
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This sermon explores the importance of pursuing pure, unaltered truth from God's Word, comparing it to the necessity of nourishing food for a child's growth. It highlights the dangers of compromised beliefs that weaken our faith and urges us to set aside destructive behaviors like envy, malice, and deceit. Discover how true fulfillment and strength…
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This sermon explores the deep connection between obedience, holiness, and love, unpacking how each one flows from a life transformed by God’s truth. Holiness isn’t about restriction but about shining outward with God’s love. What does it look like to plant the seeds of Christ’s love in our hearts? Shouldn't it help us to live lives that reflect His…
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We have a living hope that is actively transforming us even now, gradually shaping our souls through the work of the Holy Spirit. This hope will be fully realized in the future when we experience the fullness of our salvation in perfected bodies. As we fix our minds on this hope, we are empowered to live joyfully and steadfastly, undeterred by eart…
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This message wonderfully unpacks the concept of being "chosen" by God, exploring the idea that God’s election sets believers apart as "strangers in this world." It connects themes of grace, transformation, and pilgrimage with the theological richness of being God’s elect, rooted in 1 Peter 1:1-2. Support the show…
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Peter's "moment of discovery" occurred when he realized that God’s love and salvation were meant not only for Jews but for Gentiles as well. This revelation came through a vision from God, challenging Peter’s preconceived beliefs about what is "clean" and "unclean." Peter had been resistant to interacting with Gentiles, but through divine intervent…
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The first element of trustworthy testimony is the credibility of the witness, and the second is corroboration. This message explores the concept of a credible witness and how it applies to both the legal realm and the gospel. Just as a jury trusts a witness based on credibility and corroborating evidence, Christians are called to trust the testimon…
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We tend to obey those we fear displeasing, whether it's civil authorities, peers, or God. For Peter and John, obeying God took precedence over obeying civil authority. Is it ever right to be disobedient? Civil disobedience, when done in obedience to God’s higher law, can be an act of true faith. This sermon argues that all authority derives its leg…
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The religious leaders rejected Jesus as Lord despite overwhelming evidence of His truth, likening their rejection to a refusal to relinquish their own control and authority. Peter boldly declares that Jesus, the stone the builders rejected, is the cornerstone of salvation, and the truth of His lordship demands a response from everyone. Ultimately, …
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Peter boldly addresses a hostile crowd at Pentecost, explaining the supernatural events by pointing to Scripture and declaring that the Jesus they crucified had been made Lord and Christ. His message, filled with courage from the Holy Spirit, cut deeply into the hearts of the people, leading them to ask, "What shall we do?" Today, we face the same …
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We can overlook Jesus' presence in our everyday lives, even in the most familiar or mundane situations. Today's message draws a powerful parallel between Peter’s initial failure to recognize Jesus on the shore and our own tendencies to miss Christ’s presence in our daily experiences. (Sermon Given 02/05/2012) Support the show…
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Our sense of wonder profoundly shapes our decisions, actions, and the direction we take in life. This sermon explores Peter's encounter at the empty tomb, where his wonder about Jesus’ whereabouts compelled him to seek answers. It invites listeners to consider what they wonder about, especially in their spiritual journey, and how this sense of wond…
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Pain, shame, and regret, though difficult, are essential tools in our spiritual growth, serving as catalysts for transformation. By embracing these experiences, as Peter did after his denial of Christ, we open ourselves to God's grace, allowing Him to reshape our hearts and guide us toward true righteousness. (Sermon Given 1/15/2012) Support the sh…
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Are you seeking victory in life's battles? Discover the surprising truth about how surrender, not strength, leads to triumph in our spiritual journey. Join us as we explore the powerful example of Jesus, the lessons from Peter's impulsiveness, and the transformative principles of Christianity. Learn why true freedom and safety come from surrenderin…
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This message highlights that true happiness and blessing come from selfless acts of service and humility, as demonstrated by Jesus Christ. By choosing to serve others out of love and not obligation, we can transform our hearts and experience genuine joy and fulfillment. Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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In this sermon, Richard explores true devotion to Jesus Christ, especially when faced with societal rejection and personal challenges. He questions whether people would still follow Jesus if he had preached his New Testament teachings without performing miracles or showing his divine glory. The sermon highlights John 6:60-69, where many followers a…
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Why should the things that matter to God matter to us? It's clear that aligning our values with God's is crucial. If we truly understand and appreciate the mercy and forgiveness we've received from God, it should naturally influence us to extend the same to others. This shift in perspective from seeking justice for ourselves to prioritizing forgive…
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In this sermon, the theme focuses on the humility of Christ, particularly examining Matthew 17:24-27, where Jesus chooses to pay the temple tax despite being exempt. The message encourages believers to reflect on Jesus' humility and willingness to set aside His rights for the benefit of others. It challenges the listener to emulate this humility, e…
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Today's sermon reflects on the transfiguration of Christ, emphasizing His unique nature as the self-generating source of light, unlike anything in creation which only reflects light. It explores the profound revelation of Jesus' divine nature to Peter, James, and John, highlighting the contrast between Christ's eternal, self-originating light and t…
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Today's sermon urges believers to submit to all revealed truths about Jesus, embracing them fully, regardless of personal inclinations. Richard challenges us to reflect on our openness to divine revelation and to consider the implications of resisting uncomfortable truths. Ultimately, emphasizing the importance of embracing the entirety of Jesus' i…
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Using the example of Peter and his interactions with Jesus, particularly in Matthew 15:10-20, the sermon emphasizes that understanding the true nature of human behavior requires recognizing that it is what comes from within us—our thoughts, intentions, and desires—that defiles us or leads us to sin, rather than external circumstances or traditions.…
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Today's sermon explores the significant impact of the presence or absence of others, particularly good people, on our lives. It emphasizes how much we are influenced by others in terms of our behavior, ideas, and overall life. Richard then connects this concept to our relationship with Jesus, questioning why some people avoid Him despite His positi…
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Today's sermon encourages self-reflection on personal growth and change, emphasizing the transformative impact Jesus had on the Apostle Peter, turning him from an impulsive man into a courageous leader. It introduces a series exploring Peter's life and writings, highlighting the radical changes brought by Jesus's influence and drawing parallels to …
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This Sermon discusses how Israel's rejection of Jesus facilitated Gentile inclusion in the divine plan, emphasizing the irrevocable nature of God's calling and the rootedness of Christianity in Judaism. It anticipates a future reconciliation where Israel acknowledges their Messiah, highlighting the importance of humility and gratitude for believers…
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Israel blessed the world with visionaries, looking for a better tomorrow. This message emphasizes the unwavering faith and endurance of biblical figures like Abraham and Moses, who remained steadfast in pursuit of God's promises despite facing hardships. Through their examples, it underscores the importance of trusting in God's plan even when circu…
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We explore the profound theological concepts of God's pleasure in sacrificing his son and Jesus' satisfaction in his own suffering as depicted in Isaiah 53. Lets think through the idea that God foresaw the ultimate outcome of Jesus' sacrifice, the salvation of humanity, and finds parallels in human willingness to undergo suffering for the benefit o…
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The sacrificial system in the Old Testament, particularly the rituals performed on the Day of Atonement, served as a foreshadowing of the ultimate atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We explore how the intricate rituals and symbolism of the sacrificial system pointed towards the need for substitutionary sacrifice and the removal of guilt and shame. …
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Through the lens of Israel's significance as a conduit for divine revelation, this sermon illustrates how the law, when properly understood and applied, serves as a catalyst for recognizing our need for God's grace and experiencing profound personal renewal. King David's narrative serves as a poignant example, showcasing the journey from moral tran…
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What is the significance of God's divine law, particularly on its role in justice, morality, human rights, and liberty. What impact has Israel had on society. What are some of the things God revealed to Israel that has blessed all of us over time? (05/08/2016) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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This sermon delves into the connection between unity and integrity, and draws parallels between a person of integrity and the holiness of God. The oneness of God portrayed as a perfect unity. The discussion shifts to monotheism, introduced through Israel, and its impact on the world by presenting the idea of one true God amidst a world of pagan bel…
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How important is it to understand what it means to be created in the image of God? Let's unravel the wisdom shared through Israel that has shaped the foundation of civilization. Journey into the essence of what elevates us above all in the natural world! (04/24/2016) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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Embark on a captivating journey to unravel the profound blessings that have shaped humanity through the lens of Israel. From the foundations of justice and morality to the liberating essence of liberty and inalienable rights, we'll uncover the hidden gems often overlooked in the tapestry of history. (04/17/16) Support the show…
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How important is it for us to be important to others? What makes us important to others? What does who we are important to say about us to other people? Psalm 8:1-9 (Sermon Given 10-16-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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Danger! What threatens us and where should we go when in danger? Where do we look for help? Security is the promise that you will be protected. Where do we look for security? Do we create barriers to protect us? Psalm 12:1-8 (Sermon Given 10-09-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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Do you worry about your heart condition? How important is the condition of our hearts? Is there a link between our heart's condition and our spiritual health? If our heart is not healthy, we will desire what is not healthy and our spiritual wellbeing is threatened. Psalm 119:9-11 (Semon Give 10-02-2011) Support the show…
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What do you think God has in store for us? What is reasonable for us to expect from God? What can we expect from our heavenly father? What are the things we can expect and are we able to see how he blesses us? What is the nature and capacity of God? How Does God feel about us? Is God generous? Is He for us? Romans 8:28-39 (Sermon Given 09-25-2011) …
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What is the one question that is common among all men when they are in trouble? What do I do now? Is there anyway I can get out of this? Today we look at this question, What can I do now? Acts 2:36-39 (Sermon Given 09-18-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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What is the highest human ambition? What is the biggest achievement a person can strive for? Is it professional sports? Wealth? If you could be given one thing above all else, what would it be? Matthew 19:16-26 (Sermon Given 09-11-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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How much do we need to have ourselves before we feel a desire to be generous toward others? Can we ever escape the feeling of never having enough? How much do you have? Matthew 15:29-38 (Sermon Given 09-04-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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How much is our soul worth? If you were to put a quantitative value on your soul, what would it be worth? Do men ever sell their soul? Is there a price we can pay to redeem our souls? Is what we have spent our life on worth it? Matthew 16:24-27 (Sermon Given 08-28-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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Have you ever wondered why things that are contradictory to each other are both popular at the same time? Does the popularity of pornography and pursuing the Bible have anything in common? What do all things that people pursue have in common? Psalm 4 (Sermon Given: 08-21-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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How do we decide how we will treat others? Do you engage a friend the same way you engage a stranger? Do you treat people differently depending on how well you know someone? Matthew 16:13-23 (Sermon Given: 07-17-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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How important is it for us to know the truth? What is the truth? Is it knowable? Can we know that something is true? Is every action we take based on something we think is true? John 18:28 (Sermon Given 07-10-2011) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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If you were to ask the average person on the street do you want what is good what would they answer? If you asked do you want God, would the answer be the same? Is there a difference in these questions? Psalm 14:1-2 (Sermon Given 07/27/14) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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How important is it that we can completely trust every word spoken by Jesus? We are propelled in the future by what we place our trust in. Can Jesus do what He says He will do? John 14:1-11 (Sermon Given 07/20/14) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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While Jesus is revered and followed by millions worldwide, there have been instances throughout history where individuals or groups have expressed hostility or even hatred towards him. If he is completely perfect good and admirable why is he hated by some? Could our response toward Christ reveal more about us? John 2:16-21 (Sermon Given 07/13/14) S…
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When it comes to philosophy or science, it is challenging to find a single idea that every person on Earth agrees upon. However, there is one universal truth that all individuals will inevitably face: the appointment with death. Death is an inherent part of the human experience, and eventually, every individual will confront their own mortality. On…
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When contemplating our lives, we can approach it in different ways. Some may perceive their lives as a collection of scattered and unrelated days, while others view each day as a vital component that contributes to a unified whole. The analogy of building materials and a house can be helpful in understanding this concept. Just as a house requires c…
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When you hear the words "you are invited!", your response may vary depending on the context and what the invitation entails. It's natural to consider the specifics before deciding how to respond. An invitation signifies that someone wants you to be a part of something, which can hold significant meaning. An invitation carries several implications. …
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What is the right Thing to do? Who has the authority to decide what is right and wrong? What is the basis for morality? There are three ways to determine the answer to this question. Proverbs 2:1-13 (Sermon Given 06/15/14) Support the show由Ultimate Outcomes
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