Why Jesus Came

December 21, 2025

Share this Article:

Pastor Ryan Potelicki - Itasca

1 John 3:4-10 ESV

4 Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 5 You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6 No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. 7 Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. 8 Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. 9 No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. 10 By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.

Connect with Us:

Annette Wehrli Testimony | Barrington

March 13, 2026
The Orchard Barrington shared the following testimony from Annette Wehrli. Faith @ Work: Annette has felt a growing burden for those called to the marketplace—business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders who long to live out their faith where they work.  With prayer and vision, she’s launching a new ministry to encourage and equip believers to lead with Christ at the center. This ministry will gather men and women who desire to grow in faith, share their testimonies, and lead others to Jesus through their daily work.

Steve Bond Testimony | Barrington

February 13, 2026
Submitted by Steve Bond, The Orchard Barrington. There’s an urgency senior year as parents consider their kids’ readiness to face the world views of college. In March, my friend, Matt, and I were compelled by the Spirit to not squander the chance to equip our 18-year-old sons, Grant and Ty, with Truth before their departure. We dads can unintentionally outsource the training up of our kids to preachers and small group leaders… but Solomon’s caution in Proverbs 3:1 “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments” modeled the intimate privilege and obligation Matt and I owed our boys.

Mark Wilson | SHINE Video

January 5, 2026
Mark Wilson, a long-time business owner and faithful member of The Orchard, recently took a bold step to share his faith with his team of 50+ employees. While known for his kindness, Mark realized he had never openly shined for Christ at work. So, he hosted a voluntary lunch to share his story of faith. The impact has been incredible—sparking new conversations and inspiring others. Watch Mark’s story and consider how you too can shine for Christ. Do you, or someone you know, have a SHINE story? Let us know!