Podcasts
Click on the link below to get to the podcast homepage. Enjoy our full Contemporary service including the song service and preaching. You can get a copy of the outline for the message below.
http://bcf323.podomatic.com/
http://bcf323.podomatic.com/
3.12.2023 - "Run to God"
Run To God
“Hide and Seek” is a child’s game that we still often try to play with God. Instead of running to God – like Adam and Eve, we hide and run away. Let’s discuss today why they ran away so we can do the opposite…
I. THE DECEITFUL DESIGN
A. Origin of Deceit - Rev. 12:9; 20:2; John 8:44; Eph. 6:11;
2 Cor. 11:14; 1 Peter 5:8
B. Methods of Deceit - 1 John 2:15-16; Gen. 3:5; John 10:10
II. THE DELIBERATE DISOBEDIENCE
Stages to Disobedience – Gen. 3:6; James 1:13-15
1. Desire 2. Deception. 3. Disobedience 4. Death.
III. THE DISGRACED DUO
A. Shame and Guilt of Sin - Genesis 2:16–17; 3:7-10
B. Fear as a Result of Sin - Gen. 3:9-10; 2 Timothy 1:7; 1 John 4:18
C. Separation That Always Comes Because of Sin - Eph. 4:18
D. Attempts to Cover up Sin - Gen. 3:7-8,12-13; John 8:7,9,11
IV. THE DIVINE DELIVERANCE
A. Our “Fig-leaf” Works Won’t Cover Sin – Lev. 17:11; Heb. 9:22;
Isaiah 64:6; Eph 2:8–9
B. Only the Shedding of Blood Covers Sin - 1 John 3:16; 4:9–10;
2 Cor. 5:21; Is. 61:10; Romans 3:21–31
C. Will We Be Clothed in Christ to Cover Our Sin? – Acts 2:38;
Rom. 6:3-4; Rom. 13:14; John 14:1-3
Will we learn from Adam and Eve the pain, consequences, and dead-end road of sin? Let’s learn to run to God – not try to hide from Him!
3.5.2023 - "Made In God's Image"
The Image of God
Genesis 1:26-27; 5:1; Eph. 5:1-2
We live in a society which has lost its way and purpose because we have forgotten who and whose we are! Since we are the product of divine design, we have been created with dignity, value, worth, and purpose.
I. Reflect His Image - “in His Image”(Gen. 1:26)
- “We are like God in ways that nothing else in creation is like God, although we are not so like Him that there is no distinction between Creator and creature.” Eccl. 7:21; Ps. 8:5; Rom. 2:15
II. Reveal His Likeness - “in the likeness of God” (Gen. 5:1)
- Our worth & value is intrinsic because we have been created in the image & likeness of God to display His character -Ezk. 1:10; Ps. 19:1; Is. 43:7; Rom. 11:36
III. Represent His Rule - “have dominion over” (Gen. 1:27)
- Mankind is the pinnacle of God’s creative activity and was put in charge over all the earth. Gen. 1:26-28; 4:7
IV. Reproduce His Qualities - “be imitators of God” (Eph. 5:1)
- In our Speech toward “image bearers” of God– James 5:10
- In our attitudes toward prisoners – Matt. 25:39-40
- In our protection of babes in the womb – Ps. 139:13
- In our love for “all ages” – 1 Tim. 4:12; Lev. 19:32
- In our treatment of “all races” – James 2:1; Gal. 3:28
- In our disagreement over politics – Eph. 4:32
- In our concern for the persecuted – Heb. 13:3
- In our behavior with the disabled/handicapped – Luke 14:13-14
- In our thoughts of the marginalized – Prov. 22:2; James 2:1-4
- In our views toward Immigrants & Refugees – Lev. 19:33-34
- In our love for our enemies – Matt. 5:44
- In our care for orphans & widows – James 1:27
- In our sensitivity to those who are deaf/ hard of hearing or blind/poor eyesight - Matt. 11:5; Lev. 19:14
- In our dealings with those with mental illness, depression, suicidal tendencies – Matt. 7:12
- In our judging others’ sins – Matt. 7:1-3; James 4:11-12
We matter to God! We are an “Image-bearer” of the Creator of Universe! Because of that we have value, meaning, and purpose. Everyone we meet is also an “Image-bearer!” Let’s treat them all as such!
2.26.2023 - "Sowing and Reaping
Sowing And Reaping
Genesis 1:11; Hosea 8:7; Galatians 6:7-9
The principle of sowing & reaping is as old as life itself (Gen. 1:11). What we sow is what we reap. Have we considered lately exactly how we should sow? As Christians we need to be reminded that:
I. WE SOW WITH THE HARVEST IN MIND
A. Harvest Is A Different Season – Gal.6:9; Eccl. 11:1; 8:11; Ps. 121:4; Gen. 8:22
B. Sowers Look Forward, Not Backward - Prov. 21:11; Eph. 5:15-18; Psalm 90:12; 2 Chron. 7:14
C. Harvesters May Be Different Ones Than Sowers – 1 Cor. 3:6; John 4:37-38
D. God Is Lord Of The Harvest – 1 Cor. 3:6; Phil 4:19; 2 Cor. 9:10; Acts 14:17
II. WE REAP WHAT WE AND OTHERS SOW
A. In Proportion -2 Cor. 9:6; Prov. 11:24-26; Ex. 21:24
B. Of The Same Kind – Gen.1:11 & 12; John 3:6; Gal.6:7-8; Job 4:8; Matt. 13:24-30
III. WE HARVEST MORE THAN WE SOW
A. Perhaps Now, But Definitely Later - Luke 6:38; Mal. 3:10; 2 Cor. 9:6-11
B. Only If We Persevere – Gal. 6:9; Rev. 2:10; Heb. 10:36
What are we sowing? How are we participating in the harvest? What do we need to change?
2.19.2023 - "Something From Nothing"
Something From Nothing
Genesis 1:1
Hubert Spencer gave the world 5 scientific principles by which we may study the unknown. The Bible begins with these 5 in the Creation account: "In the beginning" --time; "God"-- force; "created" -- energy; "the heavens" --space; "and the earth" -- matter. From this account we discover much about our God and our responsibilities to Him…
I. Creation Demands Acknowledging Our Creator As THE God
- Gen. 1:1; Rom. 1:18-25; Jn 1:1-3; Ex. 20:3-5,11; Ps. 19:1-4
- Evolution gives man an excuse to not believe in a Creator!
II. Creation Compels Worshipping Our Creator As Lord
- Neh. 9:6; Is. 43:21; Rev. 4:10-11; Ps. 95:6; Mat. 4:10
- Luke 19:40; Ps. 98:7-9 – Will we join Creation in Praise?
III. Creation Establishes Obeying Our Creator As Ruler
– Rev. 3:14; Col. 1:15-16; Is. 45:9; 64:8; Matt. 28:18; John 14:15
-“If we are at peace with God, we will be at war with our sin. But if we are at peace with our sin, we will be at war with God.”
IV. Creation Authenticates Honoring Our Creator As Owner
- Ex. 19:5; Ps. 24:1-2; 1 Cor. 10:26; Deut. 10:14; Ps. 50:10; 1 Chron. 29:11-13; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 1 Tim. 6:7; Matt. 6:24;
- God owns it all; we are called to be Stewards of what is His – Mal. 3:8-10; 1 Cor. 16:2
What will be our response to Creation and our Creator?
2.12.2023 - Luke Swain Preaching
2.05.2023 - "Dig Into the Wall"
Dig Into The Wall
Exodus 34:14; Ezekiel 8:1-18
God made us and He bought us back with Jesus’ sacrifice. We belong to God twice! No wonder He is jealous of us! Let’s “Dig Into” this today and see what that means for our relationship with God…
I. Dig Into… What Does It Mean That God Is A Jealous God
- 1 Pet. 1:18-19; Ex. 34:14; Col. 1:16; Everything was Created by God and for God. God’s Name is Jealous & He is Jealous about His relationship with us!
- 1 Jn 3:1; Gal. 3:26 - God loves us as Children He created & redeemed
- John 3:29; 2 Cor. 11:2 – God is jealous over us as a Bridegroom is over His Bride (Church)
- “Forsaking All Others….” – Exclusive Love Relationship that excludes others or anything from being the top priority! Mark 12:30
II. Dig Into… What Are Our Idols of Jealousy
- Ezk. 8:3-6 – “The jealousy that provokes jealousy”
- Idolatry is anything that keeps God from being our All in All – What is that to you?
- Ex. 20:4-5; 34:14; Ps. 106:19-20; 1 John 5:21 – What do we show affection for & what have we traded in for God?
III. Dig Into… What Are Our Hidden Idols
- Ezk. 8:6-12; Heb. 4:13 – Nothing is hidden from the All Seeing God!
- Do we have Secret Rooms? Who/What do we love? 1 John 2:15-17
- Confession is a Must – James 5:16; 1 John 1:8-10
- Jesus knocks on the closet doors too! – Rev. 3:20
IV. Dig Into… What Are Our Emotional Idols
- Ezk. 8:13-14; John 2:14-17 - God is zealous & passionate.
- Are we having an “Emotional Affair” with another “god?”
- Do we love what God loves; hate what He hates; etc?
God is jealous for you and me! It is amazing that He feels that way about us! Let’s examine ourselves (2 Cor. 13:5) to make sure we are doing NOTHING to make Him jealous!
1.29.2023 - "Throw Down Your Staff"
Throw Down Your Staff
Let’s look at Moses’ story to learn what Moses had in his hands & how God used each thing to help grow Moses into the servant He wanted. Each of these are teachable moments for us &our growing walk with the Lord.
I. What’s In Your Hand? - Fist Ex. 2:11-12
Failure Can Lead To Faith
- “Do it my way” can lead to dire consequences! Ex. 2:13-15
- Moses was a Felon and Fugitive – God is a God of Second chances & abounding Love & Forgiveness - Ps. 103:7-12
- The War is Won, Anything is Possible – Phil. 4:13
II. What’s In Your Hand – Water Ex. 2:16-17
Look For Opportunities
- This would foreshadow the role of Moses with God’s people
- Making ourselves ready to help, witness, give, encourage, & pray is what God asks– Matt. 10:42; 25:40; Gal. 6:10; Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5
III. What’s In Your Hand – Sandals Ex. 3:4-5
Know your Place
- God is OMNI________________. We Are Not God! - Hos. 11:9
- It's not about who we are. It's about whose we are! - Ex. 3:11-12
- “I AM WHO I AM” - Ex. 3:13-15 - God’s power & Character
- God has chosen to accomplish His purposes through ordinary people – 1 Cor. 3:9; 1:27
- Ex. 4:10-16; 6:12; Acts 7:22 – God used Moses and will use us “In Spite Of” ____________ . In this way God gets the glory!
IV. What’s In Your Hand – Staff Ex. 4:1-4
Let Go and Let God
- God was asking Moses to let go of who he was and what he had - Will we take our hands off the Controls? If not It controls us!
- Jer. 29:11 - God has Plans for us – We have to surrender all!
- Ex. 14:16; Jud. 15:15; 1 Sam. 17:40; John 6:9 – God can use what’s in our hands, whatever it is, to do miraculous things!
What is in our hands? Will we grow in appreciation of God’s forgiveness, look for occasions to help others, recognize God’s power & our place, & let go and let God?
1.22.2023 - "Build an Ark"
Build An Ark
Heb. 11:6-7; Gen.6:8-22; 7:5
Are we “All In” for God or are we holding back? Noah was someone who showed he was “All In” by going “All Out” for God and he “Built an Ark” (Heb.11:7). Noah provides some life lessons for us to chew on as we seek to develop a greater hunger for God…
I. It Takes Knowing & Doing Not Just Knowing
- James 4:8; Heb. 11:6-7; Matt. 25:21
- Spiritual Maturity is the “Theoretical Becoming the Experiential”
- Mark 12:30 - Sweat Equity, Being the hands and Feet of Jesus
- 1 Cor. 12:27; 2 Cor. 6:16 -Church is Not A Spectator Sport
- God Goes With Us Wherever We Go – John 14:16-17
II. It Takes Faith Not Fear
- Gen. 6:15; Heb. 11:7 - It took immeasurable faith to build the ark.
- Trust God with our Future - Is. 41:10; Ps. 56:3-4; 118:6; Rom. 8:31
- Pick Faith Over Fear Each Time!
III. It Takes Long-Term Obedience Not Infatuation
- Rev. 2:10 True Faith in God is Continuing Commitment & Obedience
- “Did you do what you were supposed to do?”
- James 2:17,22, 24; Eph. 2:10 – Faith in Action
IV. It Takes Leaving the Comfortable Not Staying There
- Gen. 1:6-8; 2:5-6; 6:22; Heb. 11:7 – What Noah Did Was Unprecedented!
- For God to do something new, we can’t keep doing what we've always done. - We want to See and Know the Next Step, but that Negates Faith!
- Sometimes we need to take a flying leap of faith!
V. It Takes God’s Favor Not The World’s
- Gen. 6:8; Luke 2:52 – How do we find God’s Favor?
- We position ourselves for the favor of God by walking in humility, righteousness, & purity.
- No matter what it is, if it’s God honoring, God wants to help you do it!
VI. It Takes Looking Foolish Not Playing It Safe
- If we aren’t willing to look foolish, we are foolish.
- Act on your Faith – Peter, David, Moses, Noah - Dress for a Miracle!
VII. It Takes Faithful Persistence Not Giving Up
- One Day at a Time - Obedience is hard work, and it gets harder.
- 2 Tim. 4:7 - Going all out is going the distance!
Will we learn from Noah how to build an ark for God?
1.15.2023 - "Burn the Plows"
Burn the Plows
1 Kings 19:21; Luke 9:23-24; Phil. 3:13-14
Are we “ALL IN?” Perhaps we believe we are following Jesus when in reality, we have invited Jesus to follow us! Perhaps we live lives that reflect that we are more “self-centered” than “Christ-centered.” Let’s ask ourselves: “Am I Hungry For God?” Will we…
I. Leave The Old
- Eliminate the possibility of moving backward into the past – That’s how we go after goals, break addictions, reconcile relationships, & foster New Godly Habits.
- Have We Made A Statement of Faith? What Should Ours Be? _________________________________________________________
- Zacchaeus – Luke 19:8; Woman with Expensive Perfume – Mark 14:3; Revival in Ephesus – Acts 19:19
- Our Spiritual Problem – We want God to do Something New While We Keep Doing the Same Old Thing – Matt. 9:17
II. Embrace The New
- When we cling too tightly to what God did last, we often miss what God wants to do next - Amos 5:5; Ex. 3:14; Ps. 46:1
- Phil. 3:13 -14 – What area do you need to “Press On?”
- Matt. 11:12 - Is the kingdom “forcefully advancing” in our lives?
- Luke 17:5 – Let us say with the Apostles, “Increase Our Faith!”
- Heb. 6:1 - We need to cease being satisfied with elementary school Christianity!
- 2 Kings 2:9 – We tend to be play it safe – Not Elisha!
- James 2:3 - We have not because we ask not, and we ask not because we're not all in!
- Elisha didn’t hold out on God so God didn't hold out on Elisha.
- Matt. 20:16 - If we aren't willing to begin at the beginning, God cannot use us.
What does it mean in our life to “Burn the Plows?” Will we risk all for Jesus who gave His all for us?
1.8.2023 - "What Is Your Life?"
What Is Your Life?
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
What is your life?... It is a piling up of minutes. What we are doing with these minutes. How does my life count? You get to choose how to spend the minutes you are given on this earthly existence. What are you spending yours on? That is our focus today.
I. Keep An Eye On The M_________ Ecclesiastes 3:1-9
- Solomon says there are a lot of ways our time gets spent. Are we watching what we do with our moments? Are we looking for O____________ for S__________?
- Ephesians 5:15-16 “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as W______, making the most of every O__________, because the days are evil.”
- What is LIFE – We could use this acrostic – L.I.F.E.
L_______ – the things you really care about. 1 Cor. 13
I______________ – the opportunities that come our way. - Are we using these wisely with outsiders? Col. 4:5-6
F_____________ – Our time, our talents, & our treasure at our disposal to use. 1 Pet. 2:5; Rom. 12:1
E___________ – Our life is part of God’s P___ – do we see it?
- Life is S_________. – James 4:14
- Jesus wants to have a B_______ Life – John 10:10
- God has some good things P________ for you to do. Eph. 2:10
- There is some way that God’s story is going to be W_________ through your story.
II. Keep An Eye On E___________ Ecclesiastes 3:10-11
- God’s Perspective is a L_________ V______
- God makes Everything B___________ in its time.
- God might take some D____________ from our past and find a way for us to turn that into good into somebody else’s life.
- There is a God-shaped V___________ in each of our hearts
- This world is T___________ – 2 Pet. 3:10-12
- We have L____ E_______ if we have Jesus – 1 John 5:11-12
- God invites us into the story and to help write the story.
Did you know that the only one who preaches your funeral is you? You are preaching it now. You are writing your dash on your tombstone. This is your life… for God’s sake… what are you doing with it?
1.1.2023 - John Maurice Preaching
(no outline)
12.25.2022 - Seth Ambrose Preaching
(no outline)
12.18.2022 - It Really Is a Wonderful Life"
It Really is a Wonderful Life - How Jesus Changed the World!
“Strange isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives and when he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?” – How would the world be different if Jesus Christ had never been born?
I. Life Would Be L_________
A. Women – Women’s E___________ would be V___________. Gal. 2:28
B. Children – Children would be P___________. Matt. 19:14-15; Gen. 1:27; Psalm 139:13-16
C. Slavery – Slavery may still be in existence…and YOU AND I could be it’s ___________. Luke 6:31
D. Gladiators – Gladiatorial games may still be going on. Matt. 5:21-22
II. Government Would Be G__________
- Is. 9:6 – if Jesus doesn’t come, this verse is silenced. It’s meaning is lost & the governments of men rest solely on the W______ of M_____.
- 50 of the ________ signers of the Declaration of Independence were confessed Christians. Many of our laws are based on the teachings of Christ. (that all men are created equal & the sovereignty of God)
- The idea of Civil L__________ would be foreign. John Adams – 2 Cor. 3:17
- Maybe there is no _______________ as we know it – if Jesus isn’t born.
III. People Would Be Left P_____________
- Eph. 3:16-17 Jesus comes in and makes a profound difference. But, if Jesus isn’t born those C___________ never take place. – 2 blind men, deaf & mute, widow’s son, ten lepers, 400& 5000, Lazarus, Centurion’s servant, man with the shriveled hand, Jairus’ daughter, Samaritan woman, Zacchaeus, Peter & John, Paul, - You and I
- Christianity has helped preserve the F____________!
IV. Humanity Would Be H_____________
- Matt. 10:29-31; Jn 14:2-4; Rom. 5:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:19-20
- Salvation! The forgiveness of sins! The possibility that the past can be E_______ and the evil W_______ A________. That’s the hope of humanity! That’s the hope of Christ!
Praise God, Jesus did Come!!! If you are not a Christian – enjoy the coming of Christ by accepting His offer of eternal life. And if you are already a Christian – thank God for the Wonderful Life provided you through Christ and ask yourself – what if I wasn’t born? Are you making a difference in others’ lives with Jesus’ message of Hope?
12.11.2022 - "The Birth of the King"
The Birth of the King
Today we celebrate the hinge of history, that moment 2000 years ago when God Himself traveled from heaven to earth. The one thread that is woven throughout God’s entire story is that He has a desire to reconcile people back to Himself. And the Christmas Story is about that story line being fulfilled. Let’s explore today the Birth of the King…
I. His Son Is B_________ - Luke 2:1-20 - The King of kings was born not like most E_____. - John 1:1 & 2: “In the beginning was the Word..”- Jesus is E____ just like God the Father and the Holy Spirit are E_________. - Jesus was Fully H_______ & Fully D_______ God at the same time - Some people miss Jesus because they’re waiting for something supernatural. Jesus most often comes through the C_________. - Will we listen? Will we respond? Will we be drawn closer to Him?
II. His Birth Is H__________ - God uses H____ people - a young virgin girl named Mary & a simple carpenter named Joseph. He uses people like us in spite of our F___. - “The Word became flesh” & was placed in a F____ trough –Jn. 1:14 - Jesus can S____________ with our needs. - Heb. 4:15-16- God’s humble beginning here on this earth gives us hope in our humble C______________. Will we let Him in our INN?
III. His Acceptance Is V_____________ - God has a P_____. Only God could give us Jesus, & only Jesus could give us the forgiveness of sins. 2 Cor. 9:15 - “I__________ gift!” - God willingly gave the most generous gift knowing that many people would R_________ it – Mark 12:10 - God Keeps His P_________ - 2 Peter 1:19-21 “… the word of the prophets made more certain” - God is showing His Strength & that this is His Story by: P______. - No A___________… Micah 5:2 – Bethlehem; Is. 7:14 – Virgin birth; Is. 53 & Ps. 22:16-18 Crucifixion; Zach. 11:12-13 -30 pieces of silver - God waits for the T________ to be just perfect - Galatians 4:4- 5 - Many did not receive Him because of P_______ I____ – Jn. 1:11 - Jesus wasn’t just a G_____ M____ or a P_________. He was and is the Savior of the world. Luke 2:11 - “There is one thing better than man walking on the moon, and that is God walking on the earth.” – James Irwin. Will you walk with Him?
The Bible can be divided into 3 phrases- the Old Testament: “Jesus is coming;” the Gospels: “Jesus is here;” & the rest: “Jesus is coming again, so you better get ready.” Are you ready to for Jesus coming?
12.4.2022 - Discover the Light of Christmas"
Discover the Light of Christmas
Do we know what Christmas is all about? Could it be that we need to discover the real Light of Christmas again?
I. Jesus Came As the Light of the World
A. The World Was Dark N____________ Light
Gen. 6:5; Rom. 1:21-30 The world is dark – dark with sin!
Rom. 6:23 “The wages of sin is death!”
B. Jesus is THE Light for Us to F___________
John 8:12; 9:5; 12:36, 46 Our acceptance of that light in our lives means life – not death! 1 John 1:7 We are able to walk in the light because Jesus paid the ultimate P__________ for sin. Heb. 10:10
II. We Are To Light the World
A. The Devil tried & tries to P_______ the Lighting.
1) Through lack of U________________. John 1:5, 9-10; 2 Cor. 4:4
2)Through hiding our W____________. Matt. 5:14-16
3)Through the appeal of evil D__________. John 3:19-21
4)Through various E____________.
B. Jesus Calls us and E_______________ us to Light the World
Paul used his T______________ 1 Tim. 1:15-16
God empowered Paul Acts 26:17-18
God does and will E____________ Us Eph. 3:20-22
This world is certainly in need of the Light of Christ this Christmas and always. Will you let it shine? Will the love of God shown by sending His Son to be born in a manger be shone in your life?
11.27.2022 - "Unchanging Truths"
Unchanging Truths
Isaiah 59:1-2
In a day of changes, we need TRUTHS that remain the same and that we can depend on always. We need a foundation to build on. We find some of these crucial unmovable truths tucked away in the book of Isaiah…
I. God's Power to Save Remains the Same
Isaiah 59:1 “Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save…”
A. God is Able to Save Us from Physical Danger
Opened the Red Sea; delivered Daniel; He saved Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego; He saved all mankind through Noah
B. God is Able to Save Us from Death
John 3:3-5, 16; Luke 23:39-43; Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:18
C. This is a statement that has remained true through the ages. God is & has been & will be “mighty to save.” Is. 63:1; Zeph. 3:17; Jer. 32:17
II. God's Ability to Hear & Answer Prayer Remains the Same Isaiah 59:1 “…nor his ear too dull to hear.”
A. Old Testament - Ex. 3:7-8; Jer. 33:3; Ps. 4:3; 34:17 & 69:33
B. New Testament - Acts 1:14; 4:31; 2:42
C. Today – Matt. 7:7-8; James 1:5-8; 5:16-18; Rom. 12:12; 1 Thess. 5:17; Rev. 8:3-4; Eph. 3:20
III. The Destructiveness of Sin Remains the Same
Isaiah 59:2 “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”
A. Sin Separates Us From God – Is. 59:3,6-7; Eph. 4:18; Matt. 6:24; Col. 1:21; 1 Tim. 1:15
B. Sin In Our Lives Keeps Our Prayers From Being Answered - Is. 59:2; Ps. 66:18; Prov. 28:9; 1 Pet. 3:7; Heb. 11:6
C. The Progression of Sin: Sin Begins with Desire; Desire Leads to Deception; Deception Leads to Disobedience; then Disobedience Leads to Death - James 1:14-15; 1 Cor. 10:13
D. We Cannot Escape the Consequences of Sin Without God – Num. 32:23; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:1-2; Heb. 9:22,28; 1 Cor. 15:57 & 2 Cor.9:14-15
Will we stay firmly grounded in these truths and the rest of the truths of God’s Word which never change?
11.20.2022 - "Don't Quit!"
Don’t Quit
“What’s the use?” “I give up!” “Why bother?” “I’m done” … We all lose heart at times as we face life’s struggles. We get tired, frustrated, depressed, disillusioned, and feel like quitting. God, through the apostle Paul, reminds us to “Hang in There and Not Quit” by remembering the following….
I. Be Responsible - Focus on Duty (4:1)
U “Character is the ability to stay with a resolution long after the Mood in which the resolution was made has left!”
U “When you Feel like it and when you don’t” – Eccl. 12:13; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:32; Ps. 66:2; 2 Tim. 4:2
U Matt. 26:39 "If it is Possible may this cup be taken from me."
U One of the best lessons you can teach your child is a sense of Responsibility! ~ Insist, Make, & Encourage them.
II. Be Real - Focus on Authenticity (4:2,7)
U ”There is nothing more exhausting than being Insincere. Even worse than being “Worn Out” is being “Found Out.”
U 2 reasons people distort the Word of God: Profit & Pride
U Truth is seldom Vague. John 14:6
U It should be obvious to others that we are not Hiding anything, that we are Dependable, and Real. Rev. 22:19
U We are like clay jars with Cracks & Imperfections. But it’s not the vessel, it’s the Content that is important.
III. Be Ready - Focus on Truth (4:4)
U 1 Pet. 5:8 – We must not quit but be Ready.
U The enemy is ruthless. He seeks to defeat us in 2 ways:
U Prov. 16:25 “There is a way that Seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to Destruction.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
11.13.2022 - "On Fire For God!"
On Fire For God
Daniel 3:12-27
These 3 Jewish boys(Hananiah, Mishael, & Azariah) didn’t bend, bow, or burn. Let’s draw from their “on fire” experiences some lessons we might learn…
I. They Were Different During a Crisis (3:12)
- Dan. 1:8,12,15; Rom. 12:2; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Phil. 2:14-16; Matt. 5:13-16; 7:13-14
II. They Were Daring In Spite of the Cost (3:13-16)
- Acts 4:18-20,29; 1 Thess. 2:2; 2 Tim. 1:7; Rom. 12:1
- “When God permits his children to go through the furnace, He keeps his eye on the clock and His hand on the thermostat.”
III. They Were Dedicated With Supreme Confidence (3:17-24)
- Job 13:15; Duet. 31:6; 1 Thess. 5:16-18
IV. They Were Delivered by Our Companion (3:25-27)
- Is. 43:2; 2 Pet 2:9; Ps. 121:8; 91:14-15
God blessed these young men and will bless us if we remain committed to Him and are willing to be “on fire” for Him!
11.6.2022 - Seeing Clearly Again
Isaiah 6:1-8
Seeing clearly is important in the physical realm but not nearly as important as in the spiritual realm. The way we view God, Ourselves, and Others in this world makes an eternal difference!
I. We Must See God As He Is (vv. 1-4)
A. Politicians are unable to solve root problems - Dan. 2:21; 4:17; Rom. 8:28; 13:1–8; 1 Pet. 2:13–15; 2 Chron. 32:7-8; Ps. 118:8-9; Is. 2:22
B. Our only hope must be in the Lord - Psalm 95:6; 2:11; 99:1; Rom. 11:33; Rev. 15:4; 4:8; 1 Sam. 2:2
C. Current Views of Sin Don’t Change Who God Is – Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8; Ps. 55:19; Num. 23:19
II. We Must See Ourselves As We Are (vv. 5-7)
A. The nearer we get to God the more we become aware of our sin. – Is. 6:5; Job 42:6; Luke 5:8
B. How long has it been since we measured ourself by God's perfect standard -not others? Have we been excusing our sins?
C. We need to confess our sins and be made clean - Is. 6:7; 1 John 1:8-9; John 8:11; Prov. 28:13
III. We Must See the World as God Sees It (v. 8)
A. A lost and dying world is the reason for God's call – Eph. 2:1,5; John 3:16; Rom. 3:23; 6:23; Luke 19:10
B. Ask God to enable us to see lost people as He sees them!
C. Ask for the Spirit’s Power to enable us to Speak for God – Zech. 4:6; Phil. 2:15; 1 John 1:1-3; Matt. 5:16; 2 Tim. 1:7; Gal. 5:22-23
Dwight Moody said, "I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And that which I can do, by the grace of God, I will do!" Will you “See Clearly” to speak for God?
10.30.2022 - Something worse Than Dying and Going to Hell
SOMETHING WORSE THAN DYING AND GOING TO HELL
Deuteronomy 13:1-18 Matthew 23:15
Hell is such a horrible place; how could there be anything worse than going there? The one thing worse than dying and going to hell is: FOR YOU TO CAUSE SOMEONE ELSE TO BE IN HELL WITH YOU. We will discuss three groups of people that deceive others and lead others to hell. We must be aware of them and their deception so that we will not be led astray and we ourselves won’t be a deceiver…
I. FALSE PROPHETS (Deut. 13:1-5)
A. In the O.T. – Jer.14:13-16; 20:6; 28; Nehemiah 6:14
B. In the N.T. - Acts 8:9-11; 13:6-11; Matthew 16:6-12
C. Today. - Matthew 24:11; 15:13; 7:21-23; Galatians 1:8-9
III. FAMILY (Deut. 13:6-11)
A. Bible Families - Delilah deceived Samson, Eve deceived Adam,
Job's wife - Judges 14; Gen. 3:6; Job 2:9
B. The gospel may divide family – Matt. 10:24-37, 18:6; 2 Cor. 6:14
III. FRIENDS (Deut. 13:12-18)
A. Bible examples of those who have influenced their neighbors and
friends to worship false gods - SODOM and GOMORRAH, Job's
friends tried to deceive Job – Gen 19; Job 32:3
B. Today, we as friends to others, must make sure we are not leading
others astray by our example or by our words.
We must always be alert and ready to face false teaching in whatever form it comes in. We need to also be ever so careful and mindful of our influence so that we might not be one that causes someone else to go to hell.
10.23.2022 - God's Wrath and Hell Are Real
God’s Wrath And Hell Are Real
When Jesus’ disciples heard one of Christ’s teachings about discipleship, they said, “this is a hard saying” (Jn 6:60). Hell can be a difficult teaching to grasp. But, despite the emotional difficulty of the doctrine of hell, the Bible records more words Jesus spoke about hell than he did about heaven. Hell is the just punishment for sin and a reality the Bible clearly teaches and we should too.
I. God’s Wrath Is Real
- Love: one side of God’s nature 1 Jn. 4:8; Holiness & wrath: Heb. 12:29.
- Jack Cottrell - “God wants to save sinners & done everything divinely possible to do so; but when free-will creatures rebel against His holiness & reject His love, His righteousness requires His wrath to be poured out upon them.”
- Heb. 10:30-31; Rom. 2:5-8; Deut. 1:26-46; 4:23-25; Luke 16:19–31; John 3:36; Rom. 5:6–11; 2:5-6
II. Hell is Real
A. Hell is Unquenchable Fire - Isaiah 66:24; Mark 9:43,48;
Matt. 5:22; 13:42,50; 18:8-9; 25:41; Rev 14:10
B. Hell Is Blackest Darkness - 2 Pet. 2:17; Jude 1:13; Job 10:21-22; 17:13; 15:23; Nah.1:8; Matt 8:12; 22:13; 25:30; Rev. 16:10
C. Hell is Unescapable Suffering & Torment – Weeping & Gnashing of Teeth - Matt. 8:12; 13:41-43,50; 22:13; 24:51; 25:30; Luke 13:28
D. Hell is Separation from God - 2 Thess. 1:9; Matt. 25:41,46
E. Hell is Eternal – Dan. 12:2; Matt. 18:8; 25:41,46; 2 Thess. 1:9; Heb. 6:2; Jude 13; Rev. 14:11; 20:10
F. Hell is Prepared For the Devil & His Angels - Matthew 25:41
G. Hell is the Destination of Unbelievers – Matt. 25:41,46; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; Romans 3:10; 5:12; John 3:3,18
III. Why Some Deny The Reality of Hell
A. Not Politically Correct In Today’s Society. B. Fear. C. Diminishing Our Own Sin. D. A Misunderstanding of God’s love. E. False Teaching and Incomplete Teaching - Universalism, Annihilationism, Love only
God gave us the freedom to choose how we respond to Him. To give us no option but obedience would be a violation of our free will. Love is only love when it is voluntary. We cannot love God unless we have the option of not loving Him. However, there are consequences for either choice. Let’s choose love and obedience of God (Heaven) not rejection & rebellion of God (Hell).
10.16.2022 - Won't You Go to Heaven With Me?"
Won’t You Go To Heaven With Me?
Acts 1:8; Matt. 18:19-20
We certainly have the best news in the world to share – Jesus has saved us and Heaven awaits us! No wonder Jesus left us with a mission that has eternal consequences – will you accept this mission?
I. Our Mission
A. God’s PLAN_: John 17:18; 20:21; Acts 20:24; Matt. 28:19-20 The Great Commission, is not the Great SUGGESTION_. God holds you responsible for the unbelievers who live around you. Ezek. 3:17-19. You are the only Christian some people will ever know.
B. To use ORDINARY_ People: Every believer has the privilege & responsibility of telling others what God is doing in his life. Acts 1:6-8. God used imperfect people: Peter, Paul, Rahab, David, James & John
C. To Share An EXTRAORDINARY__ Message: A message that will again reunite God and man through Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. 5:18-20; Acts 4:12; John 14:6; 1 Cor. 15:2-5; Luke 8:38; 2 Peter 3:9
II. Distractions To Our Mission
Satan would rather have you do anything besides sharing your faith.
A. Some think that People should REAP__ what they Sow. Lk. 9:62; Jonah 4:1-2. How about if we got what we deserve?
B. Some say, “Our church is about the RIGHT_ size.” “The church that doesn’t want to grow is saying to the world, “You can go to hell!’”
C. Some think we should have nothing to do with SINNERS_. What kind of people did Jesus associate with? (Lk 5:27-32; 7:34 & 15:1-2)
D. Some are just to BUSY__ with the things of life.
E. Some have a problem with other RACES_ & languages Gal. 2:11-21.
F. Some site FEAR_ as an excuse - Fear of rejection, we don’t know enough, not GOOD_ enough, don’t know what to say… 1 John 4:18; 1 Cor. 5:14; Joh 4:29; Luke 5:17-26 Bring your friends to Christ!
III. Consequences of Our Mission
A. Eternal RESULTS_. The eternal salvation of a single soul is more important than anything else you will ever achieve in life. There is an URGENCY_ to this mission. John 9:4; 2 Pet. 3:10; Matt. 6:20
B. HASTENING_ Jesus Return. 2 Pet. 3:12; Matt. 24:14
C. MEANINGFUL_ Life. If you fail to fulfill your God-given mission on earth, you will have WASTED_ the life God gave you. Acts 20:24
Will anyone in heaven be able to say to you, “I want to thank you. I’m here because you cared enough to share the Good News with me”? Start looking around at work, home, school and pray, “God, who have you put in my life for me to tell about Jesus.”
10.9.2022 - Why Our Hope Is Sure!
Why Our Hope Is Sure
Believing with all that we have that Heaven and its glories await us as followers of Christ is so very important. We can know that we have eternal life in Heaven after we die…
I. Because Our Hope Is Not In…
A. Good Deeds. Eph. 2:8-10; Rom. 3:23, 6:23; 5:8
B. Spiritual Heritage. Matt. 3:5-8
C. Feelings. Rom. 5:10; Eph. 1:7
II. Because Our God Is Trustworthy
“It is impossible for God to lie…” Heb. 6:18. 1 Tim.4:10; Heb. 11:1
A. His Past Promises. Frogs – Ex. 8; Temple, Solomon - 2 Sam. 7:1–17; 1 Kings 5–8; Exile – Jer. 25; Virgin birth - Is. 7:14; Born in Bethlehem - Micah 5:2; Jerusalem on a donkey -Zec.9:9 ; Jesus Death - Is. 53:5,7 Temple destroyed – Matt. 24:2.
B. His Character Displayed.
1. God Is Faithful - Heb. 10:23; Ps. 26:3; 119:90; Lam. 3:22-23; Rom. 3:3-4
2. God Is Love – 1 John 4:8-10
3. God is Unchanging – Num. 23:19; 1 Sam. 15:29; Heb. 13:8; Jm 1:17.
C. His Future Promises Dependable.
We trust Him daily as we face temptation and trials with this promise - 1 Cor. 10:13; We find daily peace by following His command - Phil. 4:6-7; We can know that when we are alone that we really aren’t: Heb. 13:5; We can rest assured God has good plans for us- Jer. 29:11; We can trust God even when we don’t understand - Rom. 8:28
III. Because Our Hope Is In Jesus
- Jesus - John 5:24; Mark 16:16; John 6:47-48, 54; 10:28; 11:25-26; Luke 23:43; John 3:16; 14:1-3.
- Paul - Rom. 8:1,37; 1 Cor. 15:57; Phil. 1:23; 1 Thess. 4:17-18
- John - 1 John 5:4; Rev. 2:10; 1 John 5:11-13
None of us know when Jesus may come again or when we may die. Is your hope sure? Are you washed in the blood of Jesus? Have you been baptized into Christ? If not – don’t wait any longer!!!
10.2.2022 - What IS In Heaven!
What Is In Heaven
What will be in Heaven? Much is not known, but we have significant information in the Bible to create excitement for us concerning our future home!
I. Worship of God Almighty
Rev. 4:9-11; 5:11-13; 7:7-10; 14:7; 15:2-4; 19:1-2
II. Winged Angels
Isa. 6:3; Job 38:7; Rev. 4:8; 5:11-12
III. Worthwhile Work & Service
Rev.22:3; 14:13; 22:9; Gen. 2:15; 3:17–19; Jn. 5:17; 1 Jn. 3:2; Col. 3:23
IV. Wow of the Wonders of Heaven
Rev. 21:18-19, 21-22; 4:6; 15:2;
V. Wrapped In White Garments
“Dressed in His righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne.”
Rev. 19:7-8,13-14; Is. 64:6; Gal. 3:27; Rom. 13:14; 2 Cor. 12:2; Rom. 8:1; Col. 3:3; Rev. 3:4-5; 4:4; 7:14; Gal. 3:13
VI. Wonderful Reunions & Saints From Everywhere
1 Cor. 13:12; Rev. 7:9; 5:9; 1 Sam. 28:8-17; 2 Sam. 12:23; Luke 16:19-31, Matt. 17:3-4; 1 Jn. 3:2; 1 Cor. 15: 4-7, 47, 49, 53; Jn. 20:16, 20; 21:12
The words by Mosie Lister to the song Feeling Mighty Fine come to mind: “There's a light that always shines… Down inside this heart of mine… I've got heaven on my mind… And I'm feeling mighty fine.”
9.25.2022 - What Is NOT In Heaven!
What Is Not In Heaven
I want us to focus on how Heaven will be different from what we experience here by looking at what will NOT be in Heaven. These assurances from Scripture of what will not be Heaven should bring us great joy & help anticipate our heavenly home even more than we already do.
I. No More Sorrow, Crying, Tears, or Mourning
This old grief-stricken way of life – the only one we know right now – will cease to exist! Rev. 21:4-5; James 4:9; Rev. 7:17
There will be no heartbreaks in Heaven!
II. No More Sickness or Pain
We will NEVER EVER again experience hurt of ANY KIND! Rev. 21:4
III. No More Hunger or Thirst
No more droughts, no more dehydration, no more malnutrition, no more swollen bellies - Rev. 7:16-17; “No longer will there be any curse.” Rev. 22:3
IV. No More Night
John 3:19-20; 1:5; Rev. 21:23,25; 22:5; 2 Pet. 3:13 Heaven will be a place of continual light. - Nothing more to ever fear!!!
V. No More Sin, Defilement, or Temptation of Any Kind
What it will be like to have a place NOT affected by sin? Rev. 21:27
The source of sin & evil will forever be cast down - Rev. 20:10; Matt. 25:41
VI. No More Separation – No More Death 0r Sad Goodbyes
1 Cor.15:26, 51-57 - We have victory over death because Jesus conquered death & through God’s grace we get to live forever because Jesus died for us and rose again! - Jn 11:25-26; Rev. 21:4; Lk 20:36
We’ve just started looking at what is NOT in Heaven and this is so exciting and comforting and encouraging. I can hardly wait to talk about what IS in Heaven next week!
9.18.2022 - What Heaven Is!
What Heaven Is!
Most of us have sought assurance that this life is not all there is. We seek comfort in the thought of seeing our loved ones again who have died before us. We seek hope & meaning that our lives will continue on after death. Heaven is a real place described in the Bible…
I. There Are 3 Definitive Heavens
A. Atmospheric Heaven. – Sky - Gen. 1:6-8
B. Starry Heaven. – Outer Space - Gen. 1:14-18
C. Heaven of Heavens. – This is where God lives and where we, His saints, will live for Eternity. 1 Pet. 3:22-23; John 14:2-3
II. Heaven Is God’s Dwelling Place
- “An Unknow Region With A Well Known Inhabitant!”
- “To be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Cor. 5:8) “‘Our Father in heaven” (Matt. 6:9) “God’s dwelling place is now among the people” (Rev. 21:2-3); Rev. 21:11; 22:5
- John Piper: “Could you be satisfied with Heaven, if Christ was not there?” Are we truly “fixing our eyes on Jesus” (Heb. 12:2)
III. The Bible Describes The Place Called Heaven
A. A Great Feast - Matt. 8:11; Rev. 19:9, 17
B. An Eternal Rest - Heb. 4:9-10; Rev. 14:13; 1 Cor 2:9
Heaven is more than we comprehend. It’s more than the best we’ve ever experienced. It’s more than the best we’ve ever imagined.
IV. Our Destination: Heaven Is Our Future Home
- This isn’t our forever home and these bodies aren’t our forever bodies. “They are not of the world any more than I am of the world.” (John 17:14) “Aliens and strangers in the world.” (1 Peter 2:11). “Our citizenship is in Heaven.” (Phil. 3:20; 2 Cor. 5:1-5)
- “Home is Where the Heart is” – Where is our heart? Matt. 6:20-21; Col. 3:1-2
We don’t belong here forever! Our Eternal Home Is Heaven – that’s where we belong! Jesus promised to prepare a place for true Christians in heaven (John 14:2). Will we find encouragement & share the news concerning the future home of Christians? Let’s prepare!
9.11.2022 - God Wants You!
God Wants You! - Bo Samson, Preaching
Book of Jonah
1. We serve the God of Second Chances.
2. We Serve a Compassionate God.
3. God Sees Right Through Our Flaws.
9.4.2022 - Lessons Learned From Ants
Lessons Learned From Ants - Glenn Brickhouse, Preaching
Proverbs 6:6-11
One usually thinks of ants as a nuisance. But some insect-eating ants are beneficial. In the book of Proverbs ants are used to teach some positive lessons. Let’s see if we can learn today from them.
I. The Ant Provides an In__________ of the L________ Man
U God is at work today sustaining his creation, restraining evil, and saving
man. Proverbs 6; Genesis 2:2; John 5:17
U God created man to share in His work. Genesis 2:15; Proverbs 26:16;
10:4,5; Matthew 25:26; 2 Thess. 3:10
Proverbs suggests Four characteristics of a lazy man. Each trait ought to be avoided because of the harmful consequences associated with it.
II. The Ant Provides an In_________ for the L_________ Man
God designed the ant with an instinct for work: Proverbs 6:6-8
Man’s curse was not work, but that work would be P_______ and
D________. Genesis 2:15; 3:17-19
P_________ for his world. Exodus 35:30-36
You go to work for the very same reason you go to church: to
W________ and S________ Christ. Colossians 3:23-24
P________ - it’s your character.
God develops character through O___________ and R__________.
only by an honest day’s work.
We are happiest when we are accomplishing something W________.
The Bible informs is there will be responsibility, service & work in Heaven, not laziness. (Rev. 22:3) Remember: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for me…It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Col. 3:23,24)
8.28.2022 - Oh Be Careful, Little Hands
“Oh Be Careful, Little Hands” - Ben Nichols, Preaching
(Various Verses)
Lazy Hands vs. Diligent Hands
8.21.2022 - “One at a Time”
Mark 5:1-20 - Luke Swain, Preaching
8.14.2022 - Finding Peace for the Future
Finding Peace for the Future
2 Corinthians 2:12-17
A world of unrest, pandemic, inflation, & war – how do we find peace in these conditions? Each of us could list a dozen subjects that make it difficult for us to keep calm: a malignant tumor, a bitter divorce, aging parents, a guilty conscience, rebellious teenagers, car trouble, joblessness, and misunderstandings. If there ever was a time when we need the peace of God that passes understanding, it is now. How do we find it? Paul shares how:
I. A Grateful Heart (2:12-14)
* Phil. 4:6-7 – “…with Thanksgiving”
* Numbers 11:1 Complaining & Criticism is a mark of Spiritual Immaturity.
* Some people miss the entire concert of life and focus in on the blowing of a nose.” – Bob Russell
* Psalm 77:3; Phil. 2:14
* Complaining is not harmless - it is spoiling your Peace of mind. It is making people around you miserable. Start Praising!
II. A Sense of Significance (2:14)
* We’re part of that Victory parade. Rom. 8:37
* What aroma are you to others - Life or Death?
* You may never know how far your influence is spreading.
* Your influence may determine someone's destiny. 2 Tim. 1:5
III. Pure Motives (2:17)
* ”Peddle” – mixing of truth with Human Philosophy
* The word “peace” is used about 200 times in the Bible.
* If there is no righteousness in your motives, there is no peace in your mind.
IV. A Sure Destiny (2:14-16)
* Rev. 17:14 – Christ has won the Victory already.
* 1 John 5:13 – We can know we have eternal life.
* 1 Tim. 6:17-19 – trust in what?
Christians experience pressure and anxiety like everybody else, but our faith in Christ can enable us to handle that stress and live lives that are identified as “peaceful beyond understanding”. Will you put your hope and trust in the One who can give peace like no other?
8.7.2022 - Repentance Is A Lifestyle
Repentance Is A Lifestyle
Psalm 51
King David, “a man after God’s own heart,” provides for us an example of what true repentance looks like. To understand fully how repentance is more than a single act, but a lifestyle, let’s break it down today as we look at what David said about…
I. God
A. Merciful & Forgiving (v.1) - 1 John 4:8; Ps. 103:3; 2 Pet. 3:9; Ps. 51:16 & 17
B. Powerful & All Sufficient (v.1-2) - Mark 2:7; 1 Pet. 1:18-19
C. Truthful (v.4) - Heb. 6:18; John 1:1, 14:6; 8:44; Gen. 3:13
II. Sin
A. Sin Is Rebellion & Defiance (v.1)
B. Sin Is Missing the Mark (v.2)
C. Sin Torments Our Mind (v.3)
D. Sin is Against God Himself (v.4) - 1 Jn 3:4; Mark 35:45; Acts 9:4
E. Sin is Personal_ (v.1-3) – James 1:13-15
III. Man
A. Recognition of Our Sin - Jer. 2:35; 2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 51:4; 2 Cor. 13:5; James 1:25
B. Remorse over Our Sin – 2 Cor 7:10; Ps. 51:1-2,7,8,17; Acts 2:37
C. Resolve to Change - Ps. 51:10; Acts 2:38; Luke 15:17
D. Reform & Renewal Of Life - Matt. 3:8; New Heart – Ps. 51:10; Continued Fellowship – Ps. 51:11; Willingness to Praise & Sing – Ps. 51:14-15; Desire to Teach Others - Ps. 51:13
E. Restitution If Needed – Luke 19:8
F. Rejoicing In God – Ps. 51:12
Repentance is required for God’s forgiveness. But the ancient Augustine was right, “God has promised forgiveness to your repentance, but He has not promised tomorrow to your procrastination.” Make things right with God today!
7.31.2022 - Bringing Up Children In The Lord!
Bringing Up Children In The Lord!
It has been increasingly difficult to raise a family in recent years. The “family” is being redefined, battered on every front, and our society shows it. Moms and Dads everywhere are searching for answers on how to raise their kids in an ever changing and often harmful environment. Let’s search together for some sound Biblical Parenting Principles that will help us raise Godly Children in a Godless Society.
7.24.2022 - "Mine, Mine, Mine!"
Mine! Mine! Mine!
“Mine, mine, mine” - we have all heard these words as 2 children fuss over a toy – particularly at Christmas when new toys come out. But I submit to you that these words are indicative of an ungodly attitude that most of us still battle.
I. The Bible Is Clear: God Owns Everything Including Us
A. God is Owner of All Creation – Ps. 50:10-12; Heb. 2:10; Deut. 10:14; Gen. 14:19, 22; Job 41:11; 1 Cor. 10:26
B. God is Owner Because He Created It - Gen. 1:1: John 1:1-3
C. We and All that we Have are Part of Creation That He Owns – Ps. 24:1-2; Rom. 1:6; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; Acts 20:28
- Gen. 1:28 God delegated authority to us (Subdue & “Dominion) to carry out His intents & purposes for His creation. But there is no record anywhere of God’s ownership being transferred.
II. The Bible Is Clear: We Are Managers Of God’s Possessions
A. Responsibilities – Time; Talent; Treasure (Our Body; Our Money; Our Time) Deut. 8:17-18; Col. 3:17; Acts 20:35; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 6:6-10; Matt. 6:19-21, 33-34; Mark 8:36; 1 Pet. 4:10-11
B. Accountability - Luke 12:15,20; Matt. 25:14-30; Rom. 14:12; 1 Cor. 4:1-2
C. Rewards - Matt. 25:21; Mark 9:41; 1 Cor. 3:12-15; 15:58; 2 Cor. 9:6-7; Col. 3:23-24; 2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 2:10
What you are is God’s gift to you – What you make of yourself is your gift to God. Faithful stewardship means that we fully acknowledge we are not our own but belong to Christ, the Lord, who gave Himself for us. “Let us give up our work, our plans, ourselves, our lives, our loved ones, our influence, our all – right into God’s hand; then when we have given all to Him, there will be nothing left for us to be troubled about!” – Missionary J Hudson Taylor
7.17.2022 - Intern Seth Ambrose Preaching
7.10.2022 - Headed Home - The Prodigal Son
Headed Home – The Prodigal Son
Luke 15:11-24
It is tough growing up as a child and tough being a parent. Let’s learn some life lessons today from the son and father in the story of the prodigal son…
A. Learn The Value of Unconditional Love
- God Showed It – We are to Display It In Our
Relationships!
- John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Eph. 5:25-27; Matt. 22:37-39;
1 Jn. 4:20-21; Luke 6:27-36
B. There Are No Lone Rangers
- We Need Each Other!
- Jn. 13:34-35; Rom. 12:10-11, 16; 14:13; 15:7; 1 Cor. 1:10;
Gal. 5:13; Eph. 4:2, 32; 5:21; Col. 3:13; 1 Thess. 5:11;
Heb. 10:24; James 5:16; 1 Pet. 3:8-9; 4:9
C. Failure Can Be A Great Teacher
- We Can Often Learn More From Our Mistakes Than From
Our Successes!
- Matt. 14:31; 16:15-18; 26:69-75; Acts 2
D. It Is Never Too Late To Go Home
- God’s Grace & Forgiveness Are Awesome!
- Acts 5:11; Rom. 8:38-39; Is. 1:18; Luke 6:36; Heb. 8:12;
2 Pet. 3:9
Let’s learn these life lessons ourselves, teach & display them to others, and allow God to work in us to make us into the children He wants us to be.
7.3.2022 - "Celebrate Jesus!"
Celebrate Jesus
Ephesians 1:3-14
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.” (Eph. 1:3 NLT) We are too blessed to be stressed! As we celebrate our freedom as a Country this weekend let’s not forget to Celebrate Jesus & the blessings of our life in Christ! We are…
1. Chosen – Eph. 1:4
Will we answer the call and decide to follow Jesus? God picked you!
Matt. 22:14; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 17:14
2. Adopted – Eph. 1:5-6
If we are in Christ, we are in God’s family. There are no stepsons or stepdaughters. Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:4-5
3. Forgiven – Eph. 1:7-8
Jesus laid down His life for us to take away our sins. Jesus redeemed us, he purchased our freedom. Col. 1:13-14; Heb. 10:10, 14, 17-19
4. Secure – Eph. 1:9-11
God is in control & has a plan. It has not failed & will not fail, regardless of how bleak things may look in the world. Rom. 8:28; Jer. 29:11
5. Included - Eph. 1:12
God’s love is available to Jews, Gentiles, male, female, young, old, the elite and the outcasts.
Gal. 3:28; Rom. 1:16; 3:22-23; 1 Cor. 12:13; Col. 3:11
6. Sealed – Eph. 1:13
Everyone who is in Christ has the Holy Spirit living in them. His presence shows that we belong to God and He ensures our protection from the enemy of our soul. Gal. 4:6; Eph. 4:30; Acts; 2:38
7. Heirs - Eph. 1:14
We have the bulk of our inheritance to look forward to – all to the praise of God’s glory. Gal. 3:29, 4:7; Titus 3:7; 1 Pet. 1:3-5
Let us celebrate Jesus as we are blessed with every spiritual blessing!
6.26.2022 - Oh Be Careful Little Feet... - Ben Nichols Preaching
6.19.2022 - Father's Day Sunday
Youth preaching: Jackson Woodley, Carson Roughton, Brandon Berry - Check out the service on YouTube.
6.12.2022 - Living With WOW!
Dennis Crehan - guest preacher
Let’s Look At Four places In Scripture God Said Wow!
If You live without wow…
You lose Passion.
You lose Purpose.
You lose significance.
Let’s Wow God At Philippi!
6.5.2022 - Decisions, Decisions, Decision
Graduation marks the end of a chapter and the beginning of another. It is often a time of big decisions. In reality, we all make big decisions frequently. But, do we make them wisely and with God’s blessing?
I. What Method Do We Use To Decide?
II. Who Do We Listen To?
A. Your F_____________? - Matt. 27:11-26
B. Your F_____________? – Matt. 26:36-46
III. How Can God Help Us?
A. C_____________ with Christ – James 1:5; Eph. 3:20
B. C_____________ of Christ – Psalm 1:1-2; 119:105
C. C_________ of Other C____________ – Prov. 19:20; 27:6
D. Convincing C______________ – Prov. 3:5-6; 1 Cor. 16:8-9
E. Consecrated C________ – Jn. 16:13; Rom. 8:26; Eph. 3:16
F. Christ’s C_____________ – Eph. 3:10; 5:29-30; Heb. 10:25
G. C________________ with Christ – Col. 2:6-10; 2 Pet. 1:3;
Phil 4:19
As Christians, we are not alone when we face tough decisions in life. The pressures of the world (Rom. 12:2) try to squeeze us - making it more difficult to make godly decisions. But we have a more powerful source of strength in Christ that can bring about the renewing of our mind and help in making truly wise godly decisions that will bless us, our family & friends, and our Lord Jesus.
5.29.2022 - LIVE TO LEAD AND FOLLOW
1 Peter 5
God didn’t leave something as important as the church without basic structure. Let’s look at both sides of the coin concerning leadership and followership. Here are God’s instructions in how to be Godly leaders and followers…
I. The Christian Leader
A. Responsibilities
1. F_________ the sheep. Ps. 23:1-2; Matt. 4:4
2. P_________ the sheep. Acts 20:28-31a
3. G_________ the sheep. 1 Pet. 5:3; John 10:27
B. Motivations
1. Not because you M_____, but because you are W_______.
1 Pet. 5:2; 2 Cor. 5:14-15
2. Not G_______ for money, but eager to S_______. 1 Pet. 5:2
3. Not L_________ it over those entrusted to you, but being an
E__________. 1Pet. 5:3
4. Not for the A__________ of men, but the R_______ of God.
1 Pet. 5:4
II. The Christian Follower
A. Humbly S_____________. 1 Pet. 5:5-6
B. Divinely S_____________. 1 Pet. 5:7; Num. 13:33
C. Entirely I______________. 1 Pet. 5:8-9
D. Eternally M____________. 1 Pet. 5:10-11
“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.” Heb. 13:17
5.22.2022 - Living Through Suffering
1 Peter 4:12-19
“Why do good people suffer and wicked people prosper?” Where is the justice of God? Life just isn’t fair. God doesn’t seem to bless those who serve Him, and He doesn’t seem to punish those who are defiant toward Him. Simon Peter wrote about the reason for suffering that gives us some helpful insights into the mind of God about human anguish. It teaches that….
I. Some Suffering is Predictable—Anticipate It. (v.12)
6 Different Reasons:
A. Christian Testimony: 1 Peter 4:14; John 15:8
B. Our Own Sinful Behavior: 1 Peter 4:15; Num. 32:23
C. A Satanic Attack: 2 Cor. 12:7
D. A Fallen World: Matt. 5:45; Luke 13:4-5; John 16:33
E. God’s Discipline: Hebrews 12:6, 10-11
F. God’s Pruning: John 15:2
II. All Suffering is Purposeful— Rejoice In It. (v.13-16)
A. When We Hurt We Can Appreciate More Deeply What Jesus
Endured - Physical Pain, Emotional Stress, Alienated Relationships.
1 Pet. 4:13; Phil. 1:29
B. When We Hurt We Have the Opportunity to Mature - we trust
God more, pray more, read Scripture more, deepen more than any
other period of our lives. 1 Pet. 4:14; James 1:2-4
C. When We Hurt Our Opportunity to Witness is Improved - The
spotlight is on us! 1 Peter 4:16
III. Patient Suffering is Praiseworthy - Trust God’s Justice. (v.17-19)
A. We Will Be Blessed - James 5:11; Rev. 2:10
B. The Wicked Will Be Dealt With
C. We Should Commit Ourselves To God
Life is hard, but God is good. He is going to make all things new and right one day. Don’t give up hope. God has not forgotten us!
5-15-2022 - Reason to Live
1 Peter 2:4-12
What is your primary purpose in life? Do you have a significant reason to get out of bed every morning or is your life just, “Whatever”? The Apostle Peter reminds us of our ultimate reasons for living…
I. We Are God’s Ministers (v.4-8)
We are Living Stones with a significant ministry in God’s Church.
A. Jesus is a Living Stone - raised from the dead.
B. Jesus is a Precious Stone - more valuable than gold or silver
C. Jesus is a Stumbling Stone – some refuse to obey - Mark 10:21-22
D. Jesus is the Cornerstone – the foundation - Acts 2:47
-We will never be put to shame if we trust in Jesus!
-We are a part of an institution with eternal significance - Matthew 16:18
-Our contributions help strengthen others. Our failures threaten the well-being of others. Every Christian is called to perform some function in the church.
II. We Are God’s Priests (v.5,9)
We are holy priests with a privileged opportunity to glorify God.
1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 10:19; John 4:23; 1 Chron. 16:29; 1 Cor. 16:2; Rom. 12:1; Eph. 5:19
- We don’t have to pray to God through a saint or a relative of Jesus – we have direct access to the Creator of the Universe through Jesus!
- Some practical guidelines of how we can make our worship more pleasing to God:
III. We Are God’s Witnesses (v.9-12)
We are God’s people with a crucial responsibility to witness to the truth. A. Declare God’s Truth B. Live Distinct Lives
Do you know your destination? Or are you searching for a ticket that will give some direction for your life. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Our purpose is found in Him!
5.8.2022 - Live To Grow
1 Peter 1:13-2:3
Paul addressed the Corinthian Christians like this: “…I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it.” (1 Cor. 3:1-2). Peter encourages us not to be stunted in our development but to move on to maturity in Christ. Let’s look at 3 areas where we need to grow deeper in the Christian life so that we can withstand trouble and experience the abundant life that God wants to give.
I. Mentally (1:13-14)
- Our society places more emphasis on feeling than thinking.
- Eccl. 3:4; Is. 1:18; 2 Chron. 1:10; 1 Kings 18:46; Prov. 16:25; Gen. 39:9; Matt. 4:3-4; Ps. 119:11; 1 Pet. 3:15; Eph. 4:13-15; John 16:33; Col. 1:10
- “So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear.” Message (1:13)
- We fall to temptation because we yield to temporary emotions. As we grow, we should move from being emotionally driven to being Scripturally-driven.
- Read the Bible; Join a D-group & Sunday School Class; Read News from Christian Perspective; Read deeper Books
II. Morally (1:15-21)
- Be Holy – Eph. 5:3 Remove sinful activities & Become like God. - This is a Process that Takes Time.
- 4 Motivations for Holiness: A. Is a desire to resemble the Heavenly Father. (1 Pet. 1:15; Eph. 5:1) B. Is a reverent fear of judgment. (Eph. 1:17). C. A recognition of the futility of unholiness. (1 Pet. 1:18) D. The loving sacrifice of Jesus. (1 Pet. 1:19-21)
III. Socially (1:22-2:3)
- Phil. 2:3; 2 John 1:6; 1 Pet. 4:8; Acts 9:33-34
- Love one another deeply now! There comes a time when life is over and the chance to demonstrate love is gone!
- Peter grew, setting us an example!
Let’s live to grow in the Lord, not having our growth stunted by this world!
5.1.2022 - Live In Hope
1 Peter 1:1-12
It’s been said we can live a month without food, five days without water, five minutes without air. But we can’t live a second without hope. Hope is in short supply these days. Peter writes that we have a daily hope in Christ. Let’s look at five reasons we have to “LIVE IN HOPE” in a world that seems hopeless. We are…
I. Picked By God (v.2)
A. Chosen - Rom. 8:29
B. Sanctified - 2 Tim. 3:13; 1 Cor. 15:25; Rom. 14:11
II. Provided New Birth & A New Inheritance (v.3-4)
-John 3:3-6; 14:1-2; 1 Pet. 1:23; Titus 3:5-7; 2 Cor. 5:17
-Dr. Beauford Bryant - “The baptistery is a tomb and a womb. It’s a
tomb when we die to self and a womb where we are born again into
the kingdom of God.”
III. Protected By God’s Power (v.5)
- Matt. 18:10; Heb. 13:2
- If we understood how much God shielded us – instead of
complaining to God about all the pain we’re experiencing we’d fall
on our knees in gratitude for His protection.
IV. Proved Genuine By Suffering (v:6-9)
- Job, Paul, Joseph -Gen. 50:20; 2 Cor. 4:17; 1 Pet. 1:6-9
- God is temporarily using pain to deepen us.
- Warren Wiersbe - “When you’re in the furnace, God keeps His hand
on the thermostat and His eye on the clock.”
V. Privileged Recipients of God’s Plan (v.10-11)
- Eph. 6:19; Rev. 12:12; Isaiah 53:5; Rom. 8:28
We are blessed beyond measure to live on this side of the cross and to have heard the life-giving hope-filled message of Jesus Christ!!! And if the moment that appeared the most hopeless for Jesus was actually His finest hour, shouldn’t His followers retain hope in times that seem difficult for us knowing that our suffering could be for our glory? (Rom. 8:28)
4.24.2022 - A Plea To Listen – God is Hope
Zephaniah 3:1-7, 18-20
Have you ever pleaded with someone to listen, knowing that if they did not it would prove to be disastrous for them? God does that with Jerusalem through Zephaniah & He does it with us as well when we turn from Him. If we would but listen to God, we would find hope in Him!
I. The Insensitivity to Sin (v.2)
4 Areas That Show Insensitivity to Sin:
A. Would Not Obey – Sin hardens us. Num. 14:22-23 Deut. 4:32–33;
28:45, 62; Eph. 4:18; Matt. 6:24; Col. 1:21
B. Would Not Receive Correction - Obstinately rejects warnings, &
refuses to be reformed. - Je 5:3; Amos 4:6–12; Prov. 12:1;
29:15,17; 19:20
C. Would Not Trust In The Lord – Trusts in other things. Isa 7:3–17;
Ps. 52:7; 1 Tim. 6:17-18; Obad. 1:7; Nahum 1:12; Deut. 1:29-33
D. Would Not Draw Near To God – No True Worship of God.
Deut. 4:7; Matt. 15:8-9; James 4:7-9
II. The Depth of Sin (v.1,3-4)
A. Rebellious - Officials and Rulers
B. Polluted: Prophets – Lam 4:13–14; Neh 7:64; Mic. 3:5; Deut. 18:20
C. Oppressing: Priests – Exod 22:21; Deut 23:16; Deut. 17:8-9
III. The Efforts of God to Save From Sin – (v.5-8,18-20)
A. God’s Character (v.5): 1. Righteous 2. Does No Wrong 3.
Dispenses Justice 4. Never Fails
B. God’s History Lesson (v.6-7) Zep. 1 & 2; Winston Churchill –
“Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”
C. God’s Future Plan (v.8,18-20)
1. Determination (3:8) – Wait on God; 2. Consolation (3:18) – God
comforts sorrows; 3. Vindication (3:19) – God will deal with the
oppressors; 4. Restoration (3:20) – God will bring them in
Are you enjoying a close relationship with God or have you turned a deaf ear to His calling you? Will you choose to listen to God and enjoy His future glorious hope-filled plans for you?
4.17.2022 - Resurrection Sunday - The Greatest Story Ever Told
What do you consider the greatest story ever told? Many stories are great but, certainly the one we celebrate today is and will be forever the greatest story ever told. Let’s see today why that is so:
I. What a Price Paid
“The Deadliest Sin is the Consciousness of NO Sin”
Acts 2:22-23 “…you put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross”
Rom. 3:23 “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God”
1 Pet. 2:24 “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree”
Isa. 53:5 “But He was pierced for our transgressions…”; 1 John 2:2
John 1:29 “…the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”
This High Price Should Remind Us Of Two Things:
1) Sin should not be T_____________ L_______________!
2) God’s L__________ is Awesome!
II. What A Victory Won
“Jesus Resurrection – Totally Awesome!”
Acts 2:24, 32 “But God raised Him from the dead, …it was I___________ for death to keep its hold on Him.” “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact.” Acts 1:3 “After his suffering, He showed Himself to these men and gave convincing proofs that He was alive…”
1 Cor. 15:54 “D__________ has been swallowed up in victory”
III. What A Hope Attained
“Jesus is due to make on more Grand Appearance”
Acts 2:36 “… God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both L_____ and Christ.”
John 14:2-3 “I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be wih me that you also may be where I am.”
1 Thess. 4:16-18 “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, … and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air...
Acts 17:31 “For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed, He has given P______ of this to all men by raising Him from the dead.”
What is your response to this greatest story that has changed mankind;s destiny forever? Will you say, “What must I do?”
4.10.2022 - A Warning To the Proud – God is Just
Obadiah
“Pride is a spiritual cancer that devours families, destroys marriages, divides churches, and corrupts governments.” We need to be ever aware of pride and that God is a just God and deals with pride.
I. EDOM’S PRIDE BLINDED THEM TO THE NEED OF G_____ - Obadiah 1-9
A. Pride D_________: Self-Importance, Self-S__________, &
Independence from God. Prov. 16:18; James 4:6
B. Pride D_________: They were BLINDED by their PRIDE in FIVE areas:
1. They TRUSTED in their S__________- vv. 3-4
2. They TRUSTED in their W_________- vv. 5-6
3. They TRUSTED in their A__________- v. 7
4. They TRUSTED in their W_________- v. 8
5. They TRUSTED in their M_________- v.9
II. EDOM’S PRIDE BLINDED THEM TO THE NEED OF O_________ - Obadiah 10-14
There is a downward spiral that largely mirrors what can happen to our own relationships
A. P__________ ( “stood aloof” v.11) Watched as others attacked
James 4:17 Edmund Burke: “All that is necessary for the triumph
of evil is that good men do nothing.”
B. P__________ (“gloat & rejoice over” v. 12) They were cheerleaders
C. P__________ (“cut down, hand over” vv. 10, 13, 14) Involved in
the actions against Judah.
III. EDOM’S PRIDE BROUGHT THEM TO GOD’S J____________ AND FUTURE P_________- Obadiah 15-21
A. God’s J________ Does Come - “The day of the Lord is near” v.15
- 1 Thess. 5:1-2 “The Day of the Lord” always results in two
ACTIONS: 1). The D_________- of the WICKED. 2). The S__________
of the RIGHTEOUS.” 1 Thess. 5:3, 9; 2 Pet. 3:10-13
B. God’s P_______ Does Come –“the kingdom will be the Lord’s.” v.21
- FUTURE S_____________ FULFILMENT- vv. 17-21
- 2 Pet 3:8; Acts 15:13-18; Rom. 3:21-23
Will we heed God’s warning ourselves & wait for God’s justice for others?
4.3.2022 - A Call After Failure – God is Patient
Jonah 3:1-2
Have you ever let someone down? Have you done it your way – not God’s way and you are concerned about whether God will forgive you or be able to use you in His Kingdom! Jonah’s failure has a timely message for us all…
I. God Can Patiently C________ Our C_________ Failures. (ch.1,2)
- The storm nor the fish were A________!
- Heb. 12:4-11 “The Lord disciplines the one he L_____…” Rev. 3:19 “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” Prov. 3:11 “My son, do not D______ the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke…”. Psalm 94:12 “B_________ is the one you discipline, Lord…”
- Israel, Samson, Jonah– God’s Discipline & G____ Reaches Those Who Fail
- God will M____ you where you are to G___ you where you N_____ to be!
II. God Can Use Us In S_______ of P_______ Failures (3:2)
- This second call of Jonah is evidence of God's W_________ G________
- Ps. 51; Dan. 9:9 “The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have R_________ against him…”. 2 Chron. 30:9 “the Lord your God is gracious and C____________. He will not turn his face from you if you return to him.” 2 Pet. 3:9 “He is P________ with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
- Peter, Moses, Abraham – God uses F_________ because that’s all He has to work with!
- Failure doesn’t have to be you D_______ characteristic. God can use you and your past failures.
III. God Can Use Us In S_______ Of F________ Failures (ch.4)
- Jonah is a preacher that later R______ that God has used him, yet God used him K_________ that he would do this!
- Heb. 8:12.” For I will forgive their wickedness and will R__________ their sins no more.” Eph. 1:7 “In him we have R___________ through his blood… - in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” 1 Jn. 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful & just and will F_________ us our sins”.
- David, Solomon, Disciples – God knew A______ of T_______ that each one would fail Him in the future, yet He used them.
- Even if you fail T___________, God will meet you today and use you!
Aren’t you glad God used Jonah even after he ran and failed God? God can use you today in spite of what you’re doing, have done or will do! Will you humbly be His hands and feet?
Sermon Outlines:
A Prayer for Revival
Habakkuk 3:2
“Revival” means: an Improvement in the condition or strength of something; a Renewed attention to or interest in something – a Restoration to life. We are living in a world where there is a constant negative drag on our spiritual walk – we need a Revival! There was another time and another people that needed a revival and a prophet that challenged them with a prayer…
I. It Is a Prayer Rising Out of Fear
- We must be Humble. As we come into God’s Presence we Recognize how dirty we are - Is. 6:5; Eccl. 7:20
- Healthy Awe inspiring Reverent Fear of God and His justice is needed today - Ps. 111:10. It is foundational for Revival!
- Sin always has severe consequences – Hab. 1:6,13; Rom. 6:23
II. It Is a Prayer Requesting Revival
- We must Focus on God and His power and ability. Revival must come from God as we plead for Holy Spirit conviction of sin through God’s Word. John 16:8; Heb. 4:12; 2 Pet. 1:20-21; Hab. 3:19
- In God’s Timing, Not Ours! 2 Pet. 3:8, Eccl. 3:1,11; Hab. 2:3; Ps. 37:7
III. It is a Prayer Respecting the Wrath of God
- God’s Wrath is as Real as His Mercy - Rom 1:18, 2:5, 4:15; Ps. 145:8; John 3:36; Eph. 2:1-5; Is. 51:10
- God was going to judge Israel for her sin, He was then going to judge Babylon for her sin.
- Are we praying for Renewal, Mercy, & Salvation? God’s wrath is real if we do not repent!
May we say with Isaiah today: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Is. 51:10
A Challenge To Witness – God Is Good
Nahum 1.7
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him…” Nahum 1:7 This is a message worth sharing! This is a message that is needed today! Let’s each one witness to others about God…
I. “THE LORD IS GOOD” :REVEALS THE PERSONALITY OF THE LORD – Who He Is
A. The Lord is Good: Satan Wants Us to Doubt it. John 8:44; Gen. 3:4-5
B. The Lord is Good: The Bible Displays it. Ex. 34:6 -7; Ps. 106:1; 107:1; 136:1; Jer. 33:11; Lam. 3:25; 1 John 4:8; Mark 10:18; Rom. 12:2
C. The Lord is Good: Creation Declares it! Gen. 1; 1 Tim. 4:4
D. The Lord is Good: The Cross Demonstrates it! Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 4:9; Rom. 5:8
E. The Lord is Good: Christians Delight in it! 2 Chron. 6:14; Ps. 107:8-9; 145:7 What A message of tranquility in a time of trouble!
II. “A Refuge in Times of TROUBLE” :ANNOUNCES THE PROTECTION OF GOD – What He Does
A. God is a Place of Protection in Times of Trouble
Na 1:6-8 “Refuge” means a strong, fortified place. The people of Nineveh thought they were safe in their fortifications, but their security was short-lived compared with the comfort & safety God provides for His people.
B. Times of Trouble Come to All People
a. Times of Physical Sickness b. Times of Spiritual Sickness c. Times of Emotional Upheaval d. Times of Financial Reversals e. Times of Relational Ruin
Trouble comes to every life, but the Lord meets us there. John 14:6-7; 16:7; Matt. 6:25-26; Ps. 23:1; Phil. 4:6-7, 11, 13, 19
What A message of comfort in a time of chaos!
III. “HE Cares for those who TRUST IN HIM” :SPEAKS OF A PERSONAL WALK WITH GOD – What We Need To Do
A. Trust is the Beginning of this Close Connection Prov. 3:5-6;
2 Sam. 22:31; 1 Chron. 5:20
B. Trust is the Basis for this Continual Care Ps. 84:12; Jer. 17:7-8
C. Trust is the Bridge to this Certain Citizenship Phil. 3:20-21;
2 Tim. 1:12; 1 Pet. 2:6 What A message of peace in a time of trouble!
Will you witness to others of how God is good?
An Appeal To Repent – God is Jealous 3.6.2022
Hosea
Our behaviors are slipping, our church attendance sliding, and our moral absolutes sinking! God loves us and with a godly jealousy wants to draw us back to Him. The prophet Hosea faced such a time with Israel and God used him to deliver a powerful message that we need to hear today.
I. Unfaithfulness Pictured (Hosea 1–3)
- Hosea 1:2–3. Hosea is commanded to take action rather than speak and this action required him to marry Gomer, a prostitute
- We commit spiritual adultery” by forsaking the true God - Hosea & his wife Gomer reveals the extent to which the Lord will go to maintain his relationship with us!
- Hosea’s children’s names: 1) Jezreel (1:4) means “scattered,” (2) Lo-ruhamah (1:6) means “no compassion,” (3) Lo-ammi (1:9) means “not my people,”
- 1 John 2:15–17; Rev. 2:4-5; James 4:4-5,7-8; 2 Cor. 11:2–3: If we love the world and live for sin – God is jealous for our affection and we break His heart.
II. Sins Proclaimed (Hosea 4–7)
- They were “guilty of the vilest adultery(idolatry) in departing from the Lord.”(Hos. 1:2) Hos. 4:1-2; 6:1-6 Hosea’s wife was the mirror reflecting exactly who they were and what they were doing in God’s eyes.
- The spiritual condition of the people: (1) a early dew (6:4), (2) a half baked cake (7:8), (3) gray hairs (7:9), (4) a silly dove (7:11), (5) a faulty bow (7:16).
- How would God describe our relationship with Him?
- The more you sin - The easier it is to Sin - And The more you want to sin - And the Harder it is to Stop. What do Garbage and Sin have in common?
- James 1:13-15 Progression of sin: Desire, Deception, Disobedience, and Death.
III. Judgment Pronounced (Hosea 8–10)
- Assyria would punish the nation like: a swift eagle (8:1), a whirlwind (8:7), a burning fire (8:14). They will be scattered (8:8; 9:17), and they will reap more than they have sown (10:12–15; Gal. 6:7–8) How terrible it is to reap the harvest of sin!
-God disciplines those He loves: Heb. 12:1–13; Prov. 3:11–12; Ps. 119:71.
IV. Restoration Promised (Hosea 11–14)
- Hosea 14:4-7 - God will “heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them.”
- We can return to God and experience His forgiveness and a restored relationship with Him! - 1 John 1:9; Luke 5:32, 15:7; Rev. 2:5; Acts 2;38, 3:19; 2 Pet. 3:9
God wants us to stay in a committed exclusive relationship with Him - To have “no other gods before me(God).” (Ex. 20:3) He is a jealous God who calls us to repent and turn to Him if we break His heart.
Please accept our apologies for the missing outlines. We have had some internet issues. I will get them posted ASAP!
Obsessed With Eternal Things - 2.06.2022
Obsessed With Eternal Things
#6 “Crazy Love” Series
Obsessed: “To have the mind excessively preoccupied with a single emotion or topic.” We normally consider an obsession a bad ting. But…have you ever been obsessed with something? Have you ever considered that you should be obsessed with Jesus? How does God feel about the use of our time and money and effort and resources? The idea of “holding back” certainly didn't come from Scripture.
I. God’s Word Teaches Obsession
Matt. 6:33 “But seek _________ his kingdom and his righteousness…”
1 Cor. 15:3-4 “...I passed on to you as of __________ importance”
Prov. 3:9 “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the __________ of all your crops”
2 Cor. 8:5 “They gave themselves _________of all to the Lord”
Luke 10:27 “He answered, “’Love the Lord your God with ___ your heart and with ____ your soul and with ____ your strength and with ____ your mind’; and, ’Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Duet. 6:4-9 “... These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your H_____. I ________ them on your children.”
Phil.3:8; 13-14 “I count ________ things a _______ compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…. _________ thing I do: forgetting what lies behind & straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal of the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
II. Identifying Our Obsessions
- What is temporary? …….
- What is eternal?.....
III. Our obsession Will Make a Difference
- What should be our response……
-
-
-
- How That Response Can Change the ________... 1 Cor. 3:6; Luke 10:2; Col. 1:10; Gal. 2:20; 1 Pet. 4:2-3; John 13:35; Matt. 28:19-20
Are you obsessed with Jesus? Is your life wholly surrendered to Him? What would it look like if it was? Why not surrender your life today to the one who surrendered His life for you?
"Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone" - 2.6.2021
Getting Out of Our Comfort Zone #5 “Crazy Love” Series
One would think that leading a Lukewarm lifestyle for Jesus & giving God the Leftovers of our time, money, talents, & efforts would not be comfortable … but in this world – It Is! We so easily become conformed to this world that we forget THE ONE who made us… THE ONE we are called to Love with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Do we need to get out of a comfort zone?
I. What True Love LOOKS__ LIKE____
A. What It is Not...
B. What It Is...
C. The Perfect EXAMPLE_ of Love.. - 1 John 3:16-17; John 15:13; Phil. 2:7-8; Romans 5:8 - 1 John 4:8 “… God is _LOVE__________.”
D. Are We “In Love” With Jesus?
- True love is COMMITTED__, UNCONDITIONAL_, head over heels sacrifice for the one you can’t do without! - Let us each ask this question: “Are You In Love With Jesus
– Does your relationship with God resemble a relationship where you are truly “in love” with someone?”
II. The Antidote To LUKEWARM__ Isn’t Trying Harder But: LOVE_
- Actions driven by FEAR__ and GUILT__ are not an antidote to lukewarm, selfish, comfortable living.
- When loving Jesus becomes an OBSTACLE__, we focus more on OURSELVES_. Gal. 5:13-14; Luke 11:42
III. Let Jesus CHANGE__ You
- We need GOD__ to help us love God. Our PRAYERS_ for more love results in love, which causes us to pray more, which results in more love. Rev. 3:20; John 10:10; Rom. 8:5; Gal. 5:25
IV. When You’re in Love You Don’t Do LESS__
- When we work for God out of obligation, it feels like WORK_.
- Our work and LABOR_ is prompted by LOVE__. James 2:21-22; 1 Thess. 1:3; John 14:15; Rom. 6:1-3
If you pretend that you enjoy God or love Him, He knows. You can’t fool Him. Instead, tell God how you feel and tell Him that you want Him to change you today!
"Serving God Leftovers" - 1.30.2022
Serving Leftovers to God
#4 “Crazy Love” Series
Malachi 1:6-14
“Jesus’ call to commitment is clear: He wants all or nothing... God wants our best, deserves our best, and demands our best… The thought of a person calling himself a “Christian” without being a devoted follower of Christ is absurd.” Francis Chan. Let’s discover today why leftovers are so unpalatable and why giving God our best is so needed.
I. The PROBLEM___ With Serving God Leftovers
A. Our Leftovers D__________________God.
- If God is our King, Master, and Father, He deserves our respect in our WORSHIP___. Mal. 1:6,14
- If Jesus Christ is God and He died for me, then no SACRIFICE___ is too great for me to make for Him.
1 John 4:9-11; Eph. 5:1-3
B. Our Leftovers Do Not Make God HAPPY______.
- Is not God more IMPORTANT__ than any governor? Mal. 1:8
- God would rather have NOTHING__ from us rather than WORTHLESS_ Worship. Mal. 1:10; Rev. 3:15-16
- By offering our leftover time, efforts, money, and talents it shows God we are: 1) N______________, 2) D______________,
3) CHEAP____.
C. Our Leftovers Leave Us Feeling E______ & U_________.
- Worship of God becomes a BURDEN__ (weariness) Mal. 1:13
II. The P_________ Of Serving God Our Best
A. Our Best Gives God GLORY__
- WHATEVER__ we do should be for Him – 1 Cor. 10:31; Luke 17:18
B. Our Best Brings God J_OY______
- God is P___________ when we give our best! When we obey He is D________! Heb. 13:15-16; Prov. 3:9; Ps. 22:3; Mark 12:30
C. Our Best Leaves Us Feeling F________ and at P_EACE_
- It is what He D_ESIRES__ us to do. Rom. 12:1; Ps. 29:11; Col. 1:16
“I know that this whole swimming-upstream, pursuing-Christ, taking-up-your-cross, countin-the-cost thing isn’t easy. It’s so hard, in fact, that Jesus said the road is narrow and few will actually find it.” – Frances Chan. But serving God with the best we have brings about the most fulfilling, joyful, & peaceful life we could ever dream of and it brings God the glory He deserves.
"Satisfied With Lukewarm" - 1.23.2022
Satisfied With Lukewarm
#3 “Crazy Love” Series
Revelation 3:15-16
“Would you describe yourself as totally in love with Jesus Christ? Or do the words halfhearted, lukewarm, and partially committed fit better? Has your relationship with God actually changed the way you live? Do you see evidence of God’s kingdom in your life?” – Frances Chan. We are going to look at a description of what halfhearted, distracted, partially committed, lukewarm people can look like. As we examine these examples, let us take an honest look at our lives.
1. Lukewarm People Attend_ Church_ Fairly Regularly. Matt.15:8-9
2. Lukewarm People Give Money_ to Charity_ and to the Church_ … as long as it Doesn’t Impinge on their Standard of Living. 1 Chron. 21:24; Luke 21:1-4
3. Lukewarm People Tend to choose what is Popular_ over what is Right__ when they are in Conflict. Rev. 3:1; Matt. 23:5-7; Luke 6:26; James 1:22, 4:17
4. Lukewarm People Say they Love_ Jesus, and He is, indeed, a Part_ of their lives – but only a Part__. Matt. 22:37-38; Luke 9:57-62; 18:11-12
5. Lukewarm People Talk_ about Earth__ much more often than Heaven__. Phil. 3:18-20; Col. 3:2
6. Lukewarm People Do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from Feeling__ too Guilty__. Matthew 13:44-45
7. Lukewarm People Will Serve_ God and Others, but there are Limits__ to how far they will go or how much time, money, and energy they are willing to give and to what people they will love. Matt. 5:43-47; Luke 14:12-14; 18:21-25
8. Lukewarm People Don’t really want to be Saved From_ their Sin; they want to be Saved from the Penalty_ of their Sin. Rom. 6:1-2;
Col. 3:5
9. Lukewarm People Rarely Share__ their Faith_ with their Neighbors, Coworkers, or Friends. Matt. 10:32-33
10. Lukewarm People do not Live by Faith__; their lives are Structured__ so they never have to. Luke 12:16-21
No services 1.16.2022 due to COVID
"Defining YOUR Love for God" - 1.9.2022
Defining YOUR Love for God
#2 “Crazy Love” Series
“Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so.” Most of us have been exposed to the concept of God’s love from childhood in some fashion. But, we may have known of God’s love in our heads, but have we really fully undersotood it in our hearts? How have we responded to such a crazy awesome love? How is your relationship with the Heavehly Father? That is the focus today.
I. What Words Would You Use To Describe Your Relationship With God? Relationships Involve at Least Two Parties!
A. How God Feels About You
- A Heavenly Father______ & His Children________. 1 Jn. 3:1; Gal. 3:26-27;
Matt. 7:11
- Why do you think God Persists in Loving us when we so often Reject______
His Love and We are so U_nlovable__________? Is. 64:6; Jer.1:4-10; Eph. 2:10
- His Supreme S_acrifice_________ shows the Depth of God’s Love and
G_race_______: John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Titus 3:3-5
- God’s Courting, L_uring_________, Pushing, Calling, and T_hreatening
Demonstrate his Love
B. How You Feel About God
- Which of these words Reflect how you feel about your Relationship with
God: 1) Nothing and N_umb___; 2) Confused and U_nsure_;
3) Guilty and A_shamed__; 4) Distant and E_stranged_______;
5) Confident and C_lose______ - Matt. 22:37-38
II. Are You In Love With God Or Just With his Stuff?
- God’s Gifts are Awesome: Forgiveness of Sins, The G_uarantee__ We
won’t go to H_ell____; The Holy Spirit; His W_ord_
- Does your Love for God come out of His Love For You?
III. What Specific Things Can You Do To Grow In Your Love For God?
- R_eminders_ are Good – Num. 15:37-40 “so you will remember”;
Ps. 119:9-16 “hidden your word in my heart…m_editate_”; Phil. 4:8
“think about such things”; 1 Cor. 11:24-25 “do this in remembrance of
me”
- What Works for You?
God is Love! Do you Love Him as you Should? Is there room for growth? It is our Greatest Need and the Greatest Commandment!
"In Awe of God" - 1.2.2022
Awesome God
#1 “Crazy Love” Series
“Be still and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10. The wise man comes to God without saying a word and stands in awe of Him. When we see God’s glory displayed in Creation we realize He is like no other. He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings! Yet, there is an epidemic of spiritual amnesia going around, and none of us is immune. In our world, where hundreds of things distract us from God, we have to intentionally and consistently remind ourselves of how awesome our God is. We need a reminder of two things:
I. Who God Is
What do you see God to be like? What mental image do you have of God Almighty? What is He really like?
OMNIPRESENT & ETERNAL - Ps. 102:12, 27
OMNISCIENT & ALL KNOWING - Ps. 139:1-18; Heb. 4:13
OMNIPOTENT & ALL POWERFUL - Ps. 115:3
II. How We Should Respond
In light of God’s characteristics, what type of person should we be?
HUMBLE - 1 Peter 5:6; Ps. 18:27
TRUSTING - 1 Peter 2:6; Prov. 3:4-6
WORSHIPFUL - Matt. 14:32-34; Ps. 96:9
What will be YOUR response to our Awesome God?
"Great Joy In the Star" - 12.26.2021
“Great Joy In the Star”
Matthew 2:1-11
1. S_____________ the Star
2. The T__________ of the Star
3. The A__________ of the Star
4. The R__________ of the Star
"Meaningful Gifts" - 12.19.2021
“Meaningful Gifts”
Matthew 2:11
The Gifts of Christmas – Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh - How can we honor Jesus as the Magi honored Him with their gifts?
I. Gold = K________________
1. Finalize Our C_________________
2. Follow His D_____________
3. Fight for His S__________
II. Frankincense = P______________
1. Treasure His W_________
2. Lood Forward to His P_____________
III. Myrrh = P__________
"What If There Were No Christmas" - 12.12.2021
“What If There Were No Christmas” Matthew 13:31-32
Suppose we never had Christmas? What would your life be like without Christmas? Jesus Christ, God’s Son, changed virtually every aspect of human life & most people don’t know it.
I. Jesus __Changed the World_____
Matt. 13:31-32 Christ’s influence on the world is immeasurable, no doubt. But here are some areas that have been forever affected.
A. The Value of Human Life. Children - Matt. 19:14; Women - John 4, Matt. 9, John 19: Elderly; Slavery - Col. 4:9; The Gladiator Games; Cannibalism - Matt. 6:26; Suicide
- Make sure we don’t cheapen life through euthanasia, or abortion, or stem cell research, or any other way that life can be cheapen B. Compassion_ for the Poor The world before Christianity was inhospitable. When Christ and the Bible became known, charity and benevolence flourished.
- Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37; Parable of the sheep and goats Matt. 25:40; Rich to give all to the poor Matt. 19:21
- The Early__ Church_ helped the needy. Acts 2:44-45; 4:34:35
- Even Santa_ Clause_ points back to Christ. (4th Century) - Thank God for His compassion in sending His Son & reflect that love as you give compassionately to others and to the poor.
C. Morality____ to the Immoral - Abraham Lincoln once said, “The Bible is the greatest gift God gave to man; apart from it, we would not know right from wrong.”
- Jesus was born into this Cruel_ world. And His impact has been profound! Not until Christian influence was felt did there begin to be a turnaround in Morals__. Christianity spread to the barbarians like the Germanic tribes of the Goths, Franks, and Saxons through Christian missionaries. The Vikings__ turnabout truly shows God’s Power.
- As God’s people we must be the “Salt_ & Light__” (Matt. 5:13-14)
II. We Must Continue to Change the World__________
- By following His directives… John 13:34-45; Matt. 28:19-20; 1 Cor. 10:31. Will you continue the Change the Jesus Began?
Jesus coming certainly changed the world at large - but let us never forget what it would be like if he had not come as relates to us individually. We would be lost - still in our sins.
Discover the Wonder of Christmas - 12.5.2021
Luke 2:8-38
“Discover the Wonder of Christmas”
Luke 2:8-38
Let’s go back to the first Christmas and see if we can discover or rediscover the wonder of the true Christmas God intended for us to enjoy.
I. What “Word” Are We “Spreading”
- Luke 2:8-18 The S________________ were excited about His coming
and “spread the word”.
- Have we lost the E_________ that surrounded His first coming?
- Acts 4:20; John 3:16 Are you still amazed at God’s great Love and ready
to spread the news of it?
II. What “Things” Are We “Treasuring”?
- Luke 2:19 Mary “treasured” these things in her heart. The Greek
word means to “Preserve, Observe, remember, & to keep
closely together.”
- What do we treasure in our hearts? – Family, Job,
Recreation, Power, Fame, or Possessions
- Psalm 119:11; Mark 12:30; Matthew 6:19-21
- God treasures each of us beyond our comprehension.
- The “things we treasure” should be the things of God, God himself and
Heaven our reward.
III. What Are We “Waiting for and Looking Forward” to?
- Luke 2:25-38 Simeon_ and God’s people were “waiting for and
looking forward” to the coming of Jesus.
- Jesus is called “the Consolation of Israel” because he would bring
Comfort to the people by His appearing.
- Since Jesus had appeared & removed all his Fears_ & Anxieties
and fulfilled the promise he was ready to die in peace.
- Do we have the same Anticipation for the coming of Jesus again
that he had for the first coming? Do we look forward to Heaven, New
Bodies, and Seeing Jesus? (2 Pet. 3:13)
I pray today that you may discover or rediscover the joy of Christmas whether you are an unbeliever, a new believer, or a seasoned believer.
Trust God In This - Try the Tithe - 11.28.2021
Malachi 3:7-10
How do you decide what to give back to God? Are there instructions and guidelines in the Bible? What does it mean to “tithe?” Do we “rob God” if we don’t tithe? Let’s see what we can learn this morning about tithing and why you should consider it…
I. God Sees Tithing As Necessary
A. Old Testament Giving
U Lev. 27:30 The tithe belongs to God.
U Mal. 3:8-9 The people robbed God by not giving it.
U Gen. 14:20 & 28:22 Tithing goes back to even before the Law
U Num. 18:21 & 25 Tithes were received by the Levites & it was for
them in return for their service. They also tithed of the tithes
given to them. No one was exempt!
U Deut. 12:17-18; 14:22-26 The tithe was brought to the temple
B. New Testament Giving
U 1 Cor. 16:2 Regular Gift, Everyone Giving, A Proportionate Gift
U Mark 12:41-44 Jesus recognized the value of a proportionate gift
U Matt. 23:23 Jesus told the Pharisees to continue the tithe
U Heb. 8:6 We are under a better covenant with better promises
U Heb. 9:13-14 It is sealed by a better blood – Christ’s
U Heb. 7:8 The Lord looks at the tithe as going straight to Him
U Acts 4:32-35 The first Church was composed of Tithers
U Gal. 3:24-25 Could giving less than a tithe be better now?
U 2 Cor. 8:1-7; 9:6-7 Give out of Compassion not Compulsion
II. God’s Work Needs Tithing
U Tithes & Offerings go to provide for preachers here; training preachers & kingdom workers at Bible Colleges; support our camp & campers; provides for missionaries in Africa, Ireland, India, all over; helps needy here; utilities for building; literature; youth program; etc.. (Neh. 12:47; 13:10-12 - God’s work goes Undone)
III. Tithing Acknowledges God’s Generosity
A. It is a tangible acknowledgement of God’s ownership
U All the earth and we ourselves are His! - Ps 24:1; 1 Cor. 6:19-20
B. Failure to tithe robs God of money and recognition due Him
as Owner
Determine today to give God what is due Him. God says, “Test Him!” Why don’t you? You will find that you cannot out-give God! Return to Him what is already His and He will bless you beyond measure!
Growing Together As God Intended - 11.21.2021
God intended for us to grow together in the Lord, but it does not happen on its own; it takes time and effort to happen. I want us to examine what growing together looks like according to Scripture, why we need it, and how we can encourage it in our church.
I. Growing Together is Expected
- Acts 2:42-47 “devoted to Fellowship” - Fellowship means: Participation, a joint-sharing, to have in common.
- Heb. 10:25 – not forsaking meeting together
- “One another” or “Each other” occurs 100 times in the New Testament. The Christian life is meant for growing & it is meant for “growing together.” - “Serve one another in love.” (Gal. 5:13). “Forgiving each other…” (Eph. 4:32). “Encourage each other…” I Thess. 5:11). “Spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” (Heb. 10:24) “Confess your sins to each other……Pray for each other.” (James 5:16) “Live in harmony with one another” (I Pet. 3:8) “Love one another.” (1 Jn 3:11,23; 4:7,11,12)
II. Growing Together Is Based On Things In Common
A. A Common SAVIOR - 1 John 1:1; John 14:6; Matt. 7:13-14; Prov. 27:17; 2 Cor. 6:14
B. A Common MESSAGE - 1 John 1:2-5; 1 Cor. 15:3-4
C. A Common LIFESTYLE - 1 Jn 1:6-7a; 2 Tim. 1:5; 1 Pet. 2:12
D. A Common BLESSING- 1 John 1:7b, Rev. 2:10; 1 John 2:17
III. Growing Together Is Needed
A. Spiritual Growth is Not Automatic – It Is Intentional.
Heb. 5:12; Phil 2:12-13; 1 Tim. 4:7 Spiritual growth is too important to be left to circumstance. Keep yourself spiritually fit!
B. Spiritual Growth is Not Instant – It Is a Process
Duet. 7:22; James 3:13
C. Spiritual Growth is Not Easy – It is a Commitment
Luke 14:25-35; We need one another! – Heb. 10:24-25
We don’t grow in isolation of others we grow in the context of fellowship. Will you commit to grow in the Lord with your fellow believers?
Dealing With Rejection - 11.14.2021
Rom 15:17 & Isaiah 54: 4-6
Almost all of us have experienced rejection at one time or another, but many of us have not understood its nature or its effects. God understands your pain, can heal you from the wounds that come from rejection, help you to accept yourself, and enable you to show His love to others.
I. The Making of Rejection
- Why Were We Rejected?
- Was That Rejection Experienced Early In Life?
- Was Our Rejection Reoccurring?
- What Substitute Basis Have We Sought Acceptance? – Possessions,
Performance, Appearance, Power, Prestige, Fame, or Conformity?
II. The Marks of Rejection
- Withdrawal from deeper relationships …
- Dependence upon others for acceptance …
- Acceptance based on achievement…
- Passion and Pleasure as Goals...
- Relief in alcohol and/or drugs…
- Sinful Relationships...
III. The Medicine For Rejection
- Eph. 1:3-6 - We are Accepted in Christ.
- 1 John 4:19 - It is the love of God in us that stimulates our love response
- Heb. 13:5 - We Are Assured of God’s Continual Care For Us!
- Is. 49:14-16; Rom. 8: 1-2; 16-18 – We are God’s Children, free from
condemnation and rejection!
- Ps. 27:10 – God’s Love Is Better Than Any Other!
- Step 1. Recognize Our Rejection…. STEP 2. Remember Jesus Rejection. - Is. 53:3; 1 Peter 2:21; Luke 23:34… STEP 3. Get Rid of Rejection Fruit… STEP 4. Receive what God has already done for Us…. STEP 5. Accept Ourselves. - Eph. 2:10; 2 Cor. 5:17-18
Jesus offers acceptance, love, and healing for our wounded rejected soul through the exchanges of the cross… He experienced rejection by God and man in order that we might be accepted by God and God’s family. He suffered shame so that we might share His glory. He died our death so that we might receive His life… Do you have His life and acceptance today?
Seeing The Past Through Christ - 11.07.2021
We all have a past. How do you view yours and how does it affect your present and your future?
I. Will We Recognize That Bad Things Do Happen To Good People?
- Matt. 5:45; Job 1:1, 21; 13:15; Luke 18:19
1) Bad Things Are Temporary - 2 Cor. 4:16–18
2) Bad Things Can Equip Us - 2 Cor. 1:3–5
3) Bad Things Can Be Used For Good – Rom. 8:28; Gen. 50:19–21;
1 Pet. 2:20–23; Prov. 3:5-6
II. Will We Refuse To Let The Past Control Us?
- We can’t isolate ourselves completely from everything that may set off an
emotional response.
- The Past: Reevaluate it in light of the present. Put the present situation in
perspective – make a mental evaluation.
- Luke 4:17–21 - Jesus came to set the captives free
- Ps. 139:23-24; Jn 16:13; 8:32 – Pray & Follow the Leading of the Holy Spirit
III. Will We Realize How Who We Are In Christ Now Sets Us Free From The Past?
- We are no longer a product of our past, but a product of Christ’s work on
the cross! We are a New Creation!
- 2 Cor. 5:17; 4:7-10; Rom. 12:2; Gal. 5:22–25; 1 John 5:18;
IV. Will We Recommit To Forgive Those Who Have Hurt Us?
- Matt. 18:21-35; 2 Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:31–32; Heb. 10:17; Ps. 103:12;
Rom. 12:19
1. Ask the Lord to reveal to your mind the people you need to forgive. 2. Acknowledge the hurt and the hate. 3. Embrace the Cross. (Heb. 10:10) 4. Decide to bear the burden of each person’s sin. (Gal 6:1–2) 5. Decide to forgive. 6. Take your list to God and pray. 7. Destroy the list. 8. Do not expect that your decision to forgive will result in major changes in the other persons. (Matt. 5:44; 2 Cor. 2:7). 9. Try to understand the people you have forgiven, but don’t rationalize their behavior. 10. Expect positive results of forgiving others. 11. Thank God for the lessons you have learned (Rom. 8:28–29). 12. Confess any wrongdoing on our part (1 John 1:9)
In order to have a blessed future we must trust Christ with our past and “let Him have His way” with us!
"Hooked On A Feeling" - 10.31.3021
God created us as emotional beings. We feel love, joy, guilt, anger, disappointment, fear, etc. Sometimes our emotions are grounded in truth, and sometimes they are “false” in that they are based upon false premises. And emotions can be helpful indicators of what is going on in our hearts. Neil Anderson says, “You Must Be Real to Be Right.”
I. Remember: Emotions Reveal Our Beliefs
- False Beliefs Concerning God’s Control Produce Emotions of Fear, Despair, Anxiety, Depression 1 Peter 5:7–8; Lam. 3:1-11,18-24; Heb. 11:1
- When We Change What We Think Our Emotions Follow: Jeremiah
- We cannot blame others for our emotional reactions.
- We don’t feel our way into good behavior; we behave our way into good feelings. Gen. 4:6–7; John 13:17; Eph. 4:25–27
II. Red Flag: Watch the Warning Signs of Your Emotions
Emotions can be Cautionary Indicators - We Can Respond in 3 ways:
1) Suppression – David: Psalm 32:3, 6; 39:1-2; 32:4; Eph. 4:25
- It is emotional dishonesty & major cause of mental illnesses
2) Indiscriminate Expression – Peter: Matt. 16:16, 23; James 1:19–20
- Getting something off our chest may be healthy for us, but it usually isn’t for those around us.
3) Acknowledgment – David: Ps. 109:1-13, 26, 30; Matt. 23:27; 1 John 1:7; Eph. 5:15–18; 1 Pet. 5:6–11
- We Should Manage our emotions rather than allowing our emotions to manage us. We are to be Controlled by the Holy Spirit not Emotions.
- Confessing emotions is essential for intimate relationships.
III. Restore: Emotional Honesty
- John 11:35; Rom. 12:15; Job 6:26. We all need to learn how to respond to others when they honestly acknowledge their pain.
- Eph. 4:15 - Speak “the truth in love”; Prov. 16:32
- Commands are commands, whether we feel like obeying them or not. We are responsible for our actions, not our feelings. Rom. 6:6; 2 Cor. 5:17
- Sharing our feelings honestly with others is also helpful in managing emotions. Gal. 6:1–10; 2 Cor. 1:3–5; Heb. 3:13
Allowing our emotions to control us is not godly. Denying or vilifying our emotions is not godly, either. We should thank God for our ability to feel emotion and steward our emotions as a gift from God. The way to manage our emotions is to grow in our walk with God as we renew our minds.
"More Than A Mind Game" - 10-24-2021
Ephesians 6:10–12
We are in a war, a war for our minds, hearts and souls. This struggle and the battles that result are spiritual with eternal consequences. Paul didn’t mince any words when he wrote, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (1 Tim. 4:1). It is important for us to understand the battle for our minds – to know Satan’s Schemes (2 Cor. 2:11) or mind games. Then we can discover how we can win that battle for our minds.
I. Thoughts and Temptations
- 2 Cor. 4:18; 10:3–5; Eph. 2:2; 6:10–17; 1 Cor. 10:13; 14:20;
Rom. 13:14; Prov. 3:5; James 1:8;
- Factors: Environmental Stimulation, Traumatic Experiences,
Fallen World, Father of Lies
II. Recognizing Mental Strongholds
- Strongholds are neural pathways in the brain that form as a result
of actions & habits. Examples are: - 2 Cor. 2:11; 4:4; 11:3
III. Exposing Satan’s Lies
- David - 1 Chron. 21:1; Judas – John 13:2; Ananias & Sapphira - Acts 5:3
- Rom. 7:1 Satan is a defeated foe; therefore, his power is limited,
but he still has the ability to deceive “the whole world” (Rev. 12:9)
- John 8:32, 44; 17:15-17; Eph. 6:14
- Satan’s lie cannot withstand the truth any more than the darkness
of night can withstand the light of the rising sun.
IV. Winning The Battle For Our Mind
1) Renew Our Mind – Rom. 12:2; Col. 3:15-16;
2) Prepare Our Mind - 1 Pet. 1:13; Ps. 139:23-24; 2 Cor. 13:5
3) Capture Thoughts - 2 Cor. 10:5
4) Pray when Anxious – Phil. 4:6-7
5) Commit to Positive Thinking – Phil. 4:8-9
Our minds are the place where God can cultivate a crop of ministry and service or Satan can reap a harvest of wasted potential and corrupt actions – the choice is ours. Don’t let Satan play you with his mind games!
"Making Adjustments" - 10-17-2021
Making Adjustments
Our loving God wants the best for His children, as any good parent would. To be the recipients of God’s benefits, we must renew our minds, (Make Adjustments) until they are in agreement with God’s perspective on these areas of life:
1. Success. Key Concept: Goals
God wants His children to prosper - 2 Pet. 1:5–10; Josh. 1:7–8; Mark 8:36–37; Luke 15:10; Matt. 5:6; Phil. 3:12–14; Matt. 5:16; 25:21
2. Significance. Key Concept: Time
1 Cor. 3:14; 1 Tim. 4:7–8; Eph. 2:10 We are all in the significant business of laying up treasures in heaven.
3. Fulfillment. Key Concept: Role Preference
Fulfillment is blooming where you’re planted. 1 Peter 4:10; 2 Cor. 5:20 We Should Find Fulfillment As We Are: “Christ’s Ambassadors”
4. Satisfaction. Key Concept: Quality
We will achieve greater satisfaction from doing a few things well than from doing many things in a haphazard or hasty manner. Matt. 5:6; Prov. 18:24
5. Happiness. Key Concept: Wanting What You Have
It is unlikely that we will experience the joy of the Lord if we focus on what we don’t have. 1 Tim. 6:6–8
6. Fun. Key Concept: Uninhibited Spontaneity
Gal. 1:10; 2 Sam. 6:21 . It is a lot more fun pleasing the Lord than trying to please people.
7. Security. Key Concept: Relating to the Eternal
Insecurity is depending upon earthly things. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” – Jim Elliot
John 10:27–29; Rom. 8:35–39; Eph. 1:13–14; 1 Jn. 5:13; Phil. 3:7-8
8. Peace. Key Concept: Establishing Internal Order
The peace of God is internal, not external. Rom. 5:1; Jer. 8:11; John 14:27; Col. 3:15–16; Phil. 4:6-7
Will you make the adjustments necessary so that your life will be blessed by God who wants the very best for you?
"Are God's Goals Our Goals?" - 10-03- 2021
Are God’s Goals Our Goals?
Have you ever considered what God’s goals for your life are? Through Jesus Christ, God came to save us because He created us to be holy (1 Pet. 1:15-16) and we should never tolerate any practice that is not in keeping with a holy God. We are not destined to happiness, nor to health, but to holiness! How can we know whether we are achieving the goal of holiness or not? Today we look at 7 goals of God that can serve as a measuring stick to help us determine the areas of our lives that are in need of strengthening:
I. Scripture – We Strive To Make God’s Word The Guide For Our Lives.
We love the Bible. We can’t get enough Scripture. Ps. 119:9 & 11. We make sure our children learn it. Deut. 6:6-9; Col. 3:16
II. Supplication – We Seek God Daily In Prayer.
Prayer is our well of life! 1 Thess. 5:16; Luke 22:46 We should be praying on all occasions & for each other. Eph. 6:18
III. Savior – We Are Devoted To Following Jesus No Matter What.
2 Tim. 2:8-9; Jn. 15:20; Lk. 9:23-26
IV. Spirit – We Live Each Day Guided By The Holy Spirit.
Gal. 5:16, 22- 25; 6:7-10
V. Saints – We Are Committed To Corporate Worship & Fellowship. Heb. 10:25 All of us are vital members of Christ’s body. 1 Cor. 12:20-21, 26-27; Acts 2:42
VI. Sanctification – We Are Obedient In Being Set Apart From The World.
1 Thess. 4:3-8 Our lives are to be pure living sacrifices for God. Rom. 12:1
VII. Service – We Minister To Others Out Of Thanks To God.
We use our gifts to serve the Body. 2 Cor. 9:12-13. Without obedience our Confession is hollow. Eph. 4:11
If God had not intended for us to be holy people He would not have commanded us to be so. Part of living a life of holiness is developing habits in our lives that are holy. However if we try to do these things on our own, we are doomed to fail. Only Christ living in our lives can make holiness a reality for sinful humanity. He works from the inside out to make us what we need to be as we set these Godly goals in place.
Twenty "Cans" of Success - Read at the end of "Walking In Faith" sermon - 9-26-2021
Twenty “Cans” of Success
· Why should I say I can’t when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13)?
· Why should I worry about my needs when I know that God will take care of all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)?
· Why should I fear when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7 KJV)?
· Why should I lack faith to live for Christ when God has given me a measure of faith (Romans 12:3)?
· Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psalm 27:1; Daniel 11:32)?
· Why should I allow Satan control over my life when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)?
· Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that God always leads me in victory (2 Corinthians 2:14)?
· Why should I lack wisdom when I know that Christ became wisdom to me from God, and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it (1 Corinthians 1:30; James 1:5)?
· Why should I be depressed when I have hope and can recall to mind God’s loving-kindness, compassion, and faithfulness (Lamentations 3:21–23)?
· Why should I worry and be upset when I can cast all my anxieties on Christ who cares for me (1 Peter 5:7)?
· Why should I ever be in bondage knowing that there is freedom where the Spirit of the Lord is (2 Corinthians 3:17)?
· Why should I feel condemned when the Bible says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1)?
· Why should I feel alone when Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me nor forsake me (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5)?
· Why should I feel as if I’m cursed or have bad luck when the Bible says that Christ rescued me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit by faith (Galatians 3:13–14)?
· Why should I be unhappy when I, like Paul, can learn to be content whatever the circumstances (Philippians 4:11)?
· Why should I feel worthless when Christ became sin for me so that I might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21)?
· Why should I feel helpless in the presence of others when I know that if God is for me, who can be against me (Romans 8:31)?
· Why should I be confused when God is the author of peace and He gives me knowledge through His Spirit who lives in me (1 Corinthians 2:12; 14:33)?
· Why should I feel like a failure when I am more than a conqueror through Christ who loved me (Romans 8:37)?
· Why should I let the pressures of life bother me when I can take courage knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and its problems (John 16:33)?
Walking In Faith - 9-26-2021
When you hear inspiring stories of faith, do you wonder if that only applies to exceptional people, or is faith what makes ordinary people exceptional? The Bible’s “Hall of Fame” in Heb. 11 would argue that faith makes ordinary people extraordinary! All of them “gained approval through their faith” (Heb. 11:39). Let’s learn today how to be extraordinary through God!
I. How Important Is Our Faith?
Nothing is more vital than to understand the principles of faith!
1. We are saved by faith – Eph. 2:8–9; 2. We are to walk by faith - 2 Cor. 5:7; 3. We are to have faith to please God - Heb. 11:6
II. Who Is The Object of Our Faith?
Everyone (Christian & Unbelievers) lives by faith - The only difference is the object of our faith. Who do we put our faith in?
God Proves Himself by:
1. His Evidence in Nature - The Design Demands a Designer! –
Rom. 1:19-20; Gen. 1:1; Col. 1:16
2. His Prophecies Were Fulfilled - Mic. 5:2; Isa. 7:14; Zech. 9:9;
Isa. 53:1-4; Isa. 49:6
3. His Power Displayed – He is Omnipotent - Col. 2:12; Matt. 19:26;
Rev. 11:17
4. His Unchanging Nature – Heb. 13:8; Mal. 3:6; Is. 40:8
III. How Do We Grow In Our Faith?
How Much Faith We Have Is Dependent Upon How Well We Know the Object of Our Faith.
A. Get To Know God Better - Jer. 9:23–24; 1 Cor. 1:31 If we have
little knowledge of God & His Word, we will have little faith -
Rom. 10:17 Our Faith grows as our confidence in God grows.
B. Act On Our Faith - Faith Is an Action Word. James 2:17-18
C. Watch Out For Faith Falsehoods - James 2:17; Matt. 17:20; 19:26;
Gen. 3:1; John 17:17 John 10:27; 1 Tim. 4:1; Heb. 5:14
Believing we can live a victorious Christian life takes no more effort than believing we cannot. So why not believe that we can walk by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit; that we can resist the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil; and that we can grow as a Christian as we walk by Faith? It is our choice. (See: Twenty “Cans” of Success)
Living By The Spirit - 9-19-2021
To live under grace we need to learn how to: “walk (live) by the Spirit.” (Gal. 5:16) But, how do we walk by the Spirit? There is no instant formula we can serve up, but there is plenty of Scripture to guide us into a better place in our knowledge of how the Spirit works & doesn’t work. Let’s see exactly what it means to live by the Spirit:
I. L___________ of the Spirit
John 3:8; Gal. 6:8 Enables us to L_____ and M_____ obstacles we would otherwise be powerless against.
A. Helps us to F______ God’s I______________ - Ezekiel 36:26,27
B. Helps us P______ more effectively. Romans 8:26
C. Helps us L_____ and F__________ - Rom. 5:5; 2 Tim. 1:7
D. Helps bring J______ - John 7:38, 39
E. Helps bring C_____, P____, & Direction – Jn. 14:26-27; Is. 26:3; Rom. 8:11
II. L___________ and the Spirit
Living by the Spirit is not a L_______ to do W__________ we want.
Rom. 6:1-2; Jude 1:4
III. L__________ and the Spirit
Living by the Spirit is N____ a L_____ of D______ & D______. Gal. 5:18; 3:10, 21, 24; 1 Pet. 5:8
IV. L__________ and the Spirit
Living by the Spirit is F_______ and Rest – Not S______ or R_______, but W_______ or Keeping in Step. 2 Cor. 3:17; 1 Cor. 3:6-9; Matt. 11:28–30; John 10:9; Heb. 5:8; Is. 40:30–31
V. L___________ by the Spirit
Living by the Spirit means a willingness to be S___________ & F__________ Christ & the Spirit’s L_______ Rom. 8:14; John 10:27, 16:13; 1 Thess. 5:19
VI. L__________ F_______ of the Spirit
Living by the Spirit means B_______ Q_________ resembling the Spirit.
Gal. 5:19-23; Mark 7:20; 1 John 4:16
Jesus said of the Spirit, “The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit” (John 3:8). Being filled and led by the Spirit may take us places we never planned, but the will of God will never lead us where the grace of God cannot keep us. So let’s pull in the oars and put up the sail and see where God takes us as we LIVE BY THE SPIRIT!
Freedom Isn’t Free
Our freedoms are often taken for granted. Let’s pause this July 4th and talk about the freedoms we share as Americans and Christians and how those freedoms should motivate us…
I. Remember: Freedom C__________
A. Our N_______________ Freedom
B. Our S________________ Freedom
- John 8:32-36 We know the truth, and the truth will set us free -
The S_______ sets us free!
- Rom. 8:1-2 There is no C_______________ for those in Jesus
- Heb. 9:15 Jesus died as a R__________ to set us free from sins
- Heb. 2:9-10 Jesus tasted death for us & brought us to G______
II. Reflect: Freedom Should M___________
A. Gratitude And A_____________
- Rom. 7:25 Thanks be to God who D________ us through Jesus!
- 1 Cor. 15:57 Thanks be to God who gives us the V____ through
Jesus Christ Our Lord
- 2 Cor. 9:15 Thanks be to God for His I_________________ gift!
B. E_______________ And Joy
- Phil. 4:4 We have reason to rejoice A_________
- Eph. 1:5 We are children of God: A_______ through Jesus
- Rom. 8:17, Titus 3:7 We are H_______ of a Glorious Kingdom
- Rom. 8:37 We are more than C_____________ through Jesus
- 1 Cor. 2:9 We can’t even I_____ all that God has instore for us!
C. Prayer And A___________
- 2 Chron. 7:14 “If my people, who are called by my name, will
humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from
their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will
forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
- 1 Thess. 5:17 Pray C______________
- 1 Tim. 2:1-2 Pray for our L__________
- Esther 5:1-3 B________ Act for God and His people
Let’s celebrate this July 4th with greater motivation & knowledge!
Being Content
Philippians 4:10-13
I. Content Where you are
A. Paul still Preaches
B. Paul still Thanked and Praises God
C. Paul still has Joy
II. Content When Others can help
III. Content With all Circumstances
A. Remember The Cross
B. Let Go of the Past
C. Live one day at a Time
D. Find Sufficiency in Jesus
Remember Contentment isn’t Complacency
Clay In The Potter’s Hands
Object lessons abound in the Old and New Testaments. Often times an object lesson can teach us in a way that other lessons can’t. The one we will learn from today is used many times in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah. Let’s consider three lessons that can be learned from clay and the clay pot.
I. We Are Clay Molded Together By THE Potter
A. We are God’s Masterpiece
Gen. 1:26; 2:7 Job 33:6
B. We cannot Hide Anything from God
Isaiah 29:15-16
C. We were Formed with a Purpose
John 4:23-24; Matt. 28:19-20; James 2:24; Is. 64:8; 43:7; Eph. 2:10; 4:24
D. We should Beware of Questioning the Potter
Isaiah 45:9-10; Rom. 8:28
II. We Are Clay That Can Be Remolded By THE Potter
A. What seemed to be Good became Bad
Jer. 18:9-10; Heb. 6:4-6; 2:1; 10:26; 1 Tim. 5:15; 1 Cor. 9:27
B. What seemed to be Ruined became Useful
Jer. 18:7-8; John 3:16; Matt. 6:14-15
III. We Are Clay That Can Be Smashed By THE Potter
A. There is a Limit to what God will Stand
Jer. 19:1-10; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; Luke 3:9
B. Hell was Prepared for the Devil and his angels
Matt. 25:41; Luke 15:10
What lessons do you most need to be reminded of? God, our Great Potter, has created us and we are to be about His work. If we have not been about His work, it’s not too late to be made into a new work of His. But we must remember that there will be a day when it will be too late. Choose you this day whom you will serve!
The Trust of the Church that Christ Built
Psalm 146:3; Proverbs 3:5
Generally speaking, we are more skeptical than trusting. But, we must have trust in Christ’s church. So let’s see how God has given us reason to trust Him today:
I. Trust in the Designer He is credible and trustworthy
A. His C__________ Revealed Shouts it
1. The Bible says the World is R________! Is. 40:22; Luke 17:34-36
2. Man’s Computer vs God’s amazing “living computer” – No Match!
3. Our Human Body – God’s M_____________ Psalm 139:14; Gen. 1:27
Man is the C________ of C___________. Rom. 1:20-25
B. His M__________ Displayed Testify to it Jn. 14:10; 20:30-31 Ex. 10:1
C. His P__________ Fulfilled Prove it Virgin Birth – Is. 7:14; Jesus Parables – Ps. 78:2; Triumphal Entry – Zech. 9:9; Pierced for our Sin – Is. 53:4-5; Casting of Lots – Ps. 22:18; “every one of God’s promises is a ‘Y____.” 2 Cor. 1:20; John 14:1; Mark 9:24 – “It is not our trust that keeps us, but the G_____ in whom we trust who keeps us.” – Oswald C.
II. Trust in the Design/Plans
“Trustfulness is based on confidence in God, whose ways I do not U________. If I did, there would be no need for trust.” – Oswald C.
A. God’s Word is Designed to Reveal God’s Will for His C_____.
God is our only way to salvation – Isaiah 12:2; God’s Word is – HIS Word – 2 Pet. 1:20-21; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Heb. 4.12
The First Church had at it’s core God’s Word to G_____ it – Acts 2:42
We must be careful to stay T_____ to God’s Word and nothing else. 2 John 1:9; 1 Tim. 4:16; Rev. 22:18
B. God’s Church is Designed to Carry Out God’s Plan of S__________ We are the church & Jesus is the C____________ on which we build. Eph. 2:20-22
We have a mission to carry God’s message of R___________ to the whole world. 2 Cor. 5:17-20; Matt. 28:19-20
III. Trust in the Design Team/Leadership
A. Jesus is THE H_____ of the Church Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23
B. Elders/Pastors/Overseers/Shepherds are the Spiritual Leaders of the Church on earth 1 Tim. 5:17-19; 1 Thess. 5:12
The church is made up of I__________ people.
C. Deacons are the Servants of the Church carrying out ministry
The word “deacon” means “S_________.” Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-10 Trust the Designer, the design, and the design team! “Attempt something so great for God that it’s doomed to failure unless God be in it.”
Can You See?
Mission Possible
Graduation – a time of new beginnings, a time of new challenges, a time of new possibilities! How will you view the future “opportunities”? Can You See...
I. What God Sees Possible Concerning Your E_______ P_______
Matt. 19:26 “… With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
James 1:5 “If any of you lacks w________, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
Prov. 27:17 “As iron s___________ iron, so one man s____________ another.”
II. What God Sees Possible In Other P________ L________
Matt. 16:18 “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…”
1 Sam. 16:7 “… The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the o__________ appearance, but the LORD looks at the h_______.”
III. What God Sees Possible Through Your C________ L_______
Ex. 4:11-12 “Moses says to the LORD, ‘… I am slow of speech and tongue’… Now go; I will h______ you speak and will t________ you what to say.”
1 Cor. 1:27 “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the w_______; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the s__________.”
Our dependence on God or “lack of” determines whether we will see the Stars or the Bars! Will you see as God does – A Mission Possible?
Incredible Salvation – Focus: Baptism
What God intended to be a simple act of obedience has become surrounded in controversy, contention, and confusion! We know the Bible speaks of baptism and the first Church practiced it – so what meaning does it have for us today? That is our focus.
I. It Is A P________________.
- We act out the gospel:
In B____________ we act the D_________ of Christ
In B____________ we act the B_________ of Christ.
In B____________ we act the R_________ of Christ.
- The meaning is clear: to I__________. Other forms do not portray the facts of D______, B______, & R___________.
- ln this D______ the sinner plays the part of Christ for on
Calvary Christ played the part of the sinner.
II. It Is A P________________.
- Gal.3:27, Col.2:12 - Only God can raise a person up to a
New Life. God acts in B________ as He acted in the Resurrection. It is the O______ of God not a W____ of man.
- Acts 2:38; 22:16; Eph.5:26; Mk 16:16 - The P______ of a P________ believer in the death of Christ through B_______ brings him to forgiveness & Gift of the Holy Spirit.
III. It Is An E_______________.
- Our Physical Life began with Birth. Our Spiritual Life must
Begin with Death, our Death to S________. – Rom. 6:2,8,11
- I_____ involves us in a death-like S______. Naaman bows to the will of God–no alternatives -"This do & you shall live"
- B_________ involves us in the death of P________, Self-reliance, our own W_____, and our own Self-_________.
- Christ laid aside His pride to mount the cross - We must lay aside our pride to re-enact it.
- Baptism then, is not a matter of the W___, but of the W__.
- B________ marks the point when we say farewell to the old life ruled by Satan and we surrender our W________, our R_________ ,our P_________ - OUR ALL TO CHRIST!
Today will you kneel in Gethsemane's garden and pray with Christ, "Not my will, but Thine be done"? Will you submit your life to Christ and begin anew in Christian Baptism?
Invincible Name
Why call the Church the Church of Christ? Why should we be called Christians? Why should we be governed by elder leadership? – This is our focus today as we continue with “Church Basics”…
I. The Head of the Church
A. Christ Came To E__________ His One Church. Rom. 12:4-5 & Eph. 4:4-6 “one body; Matt. 16:18 "Upon this rock I will build ______ church."
B. Christ is the One Head of His Church. Eph. 5:23; Eph. 1:22-23 head over E______________; Col. 1:18 head of the body
II. The Name of the Church
A. Corporately - Eph. 5; Acts 4:12; John 14:6; Rom. 16:16; Matt. 16:18 - Churches of Christ; Church of G_____; God’s church; Church of the living God; Church of the F_________; The church; Kingdom of God, Christ & heaven; The body of Christ; B_______ of Christ
B. Individually – “Not the _____ Christians, but Christians ______.” Acts 11:26 - The disciples were called C____________ first at Antioch. Gal. 3:26-28; 1 Peter 4:16; I Cor. 1:10-13 ; Col. 3:11
III. The Organization of the Church
A. Plurality of E_______. Each congregation was a free, self-governing body of believers. There were only three permanent leadership roles within the church – Evangelists, Elders, & D________. Eph. 4:11-12; 1 Pet. 2:9; Acts 20:17, 28; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; Acts 14:23; 1 Pet. 5:1-4; Acts 16:4; I Tim. 5:17
B. M________________ that have arose through the years.
1) Elders which pass the buck; 2) Elders over the spiritual & deacons over the P________; 3) Deacons are Junior Elders; 4) W_______ as Elders; 5) “Church Board” decisions; 6) Elders devoid of A________.
C. Our Response is to R________ our Leadership. 1 Thess. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:17
What name will you wear? Will you honor the name of Christ as you minister, commit, serve, & respect? Will we govern as Christ instructed? Will we be Christ’s Church as He intended?
The Harvest Prayer
Acts 2:42; Luke 10:2
The First Church was a praying Church. And that is to be our pattern. Acts 2:42 tells us: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching & to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Today we talk about prayer and I want to hone in on one specific type of prayer that is commanded of us by Jesus - “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.“ Luke 10:2
I. The Harvest Is Plentiful
- There are billions of people today who do not know about Jesus.
- There are those far off and those next doors.
- There must be sowing before reaping!
II. The Laborers Are Few
- 7.8 Billion People in the World
- 5.5 Billion People are not Christians
- __________ Preachers & Missionaries Rom. 10:13-15
III. Pray, Encourage, Step Out
A. Pray to God to Send Laborers. 2 Cor. 9:6
B. We Should Encourage Others.
C. We Should Be Willing To Step Out. Matt. 28:19-20
- Lessons on Evangelism or Witnessing For Jesus: 1) The Woman at the Well John 4:28-30 - Tell What You Know. 2) Gadarene Demoniac –Luke 8:38-39; Rom. 6:23 - Tell Others What Jesus Has Done For You. 3) Aquila and Priscilla. Acts 18:24-26 - Tell Others What To Do To Be Saved.
- Moses’ Excuses & Perhaps Ours Too: 1) Insignificance - Ex. 3:11;
2) Ignorance - Ex. 3:13; 3) Insufficiency - Ex. 4:1; 4) Inability - Ex. 4:10;
5) Irresponsibility - Ex. 4:13
Our Challenge: Devote yourself to pray the harvest prayer continually –– “Lord, send out workers into the harvest field.” But let us also encourage others and be willing to be used ourselves!
Inspirational Communion
Acts 2:42
The first Church was called by Christ to remember His death through what is known as the Lord’s Supper or Communion. They obeyed & devoted themselves to this. Why should this be important & what larger significance does Communion play in each of our lives?
I. Communion Serves To R______________ Us
+ As human beings we are prone to F___________.
+ "The H____ S_____ also performs this function" - John 14:26
+ We have but one name to enshrine – J_______ Alone Defeated the forces of Darkness!
+ The Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world” should be our F__________. Isaiah 53
+ "Do this in R________________ of me" - 1 Cor. 11:23-26
II. Communion Serves To R______________ Us
+ "On the night He was B____________" - 1 Cor. 11:23
+ Had we no sins we would need no L_______ S___________
+ He loves us too much to let us R________ as we are! God wants to change us to be more like Christ – Sanctified & Holy!
+ "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my E__________." Psalm 23:5
+ "A man ought to E________ H__________..." - 1 Cor. 11:28
+ We refocus, r____, & rejoice as we are renewed & refreshed.
III. Communion Serves To R_____________ Us
+ The T_______ is spread in the midst of a D________ World
+ "We are all O______ in Christ Jesus" - Gal. 3:28
+ No B_______ W____ can keep us from our time with Jesus at His Table!
+ What can save our world? – Only Christ, and our R________ with one another through Him!
+ Like two great arms of Christ, the L_____ S________ & the L_______ D_____ reach out to embrace the whole earth!
+ "With your B________ you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation." - Rev. 5:9
Is Communion a priority for you in your Christian walk? Do you take it in the proper manner? Are you truly thankful for Jesus Sacrifice?
Fellowship
Sometimes the church doesn’t provide the best fellowship. Instead of finding love & acceptance, people find insensitivity & indifference. Instead of finding the church a place of honesty & encouragement, they find phoniness & criticism. So they look elsewhere for fellowship & the church misses an opportunity to meet people’s deepest needs. The First Church was an authentic display of acceptance, forgiveness, concern, & support. Let’s learn from them that…
I. Christian Fellowship was Established on a Common Commitment to Jesus Christ
- Acts 2:42-43 “Devoted” means “adhered to” or “to stick like glue.”
- 1 John 1:7 – “IF” we walk in the light
- Fellowship can be based on things like: Sports, Music, Politics, Food, AA, or even Family - these are a Temporary Foundation.
- The most meaningful Fellowship in Jesus is based on a:
A. Common Value System - We share Moral Standards 2 Cor. 6:14
B. Common Eternal Goal - Seek First God’s Kingdom 1 Cor. 12:13
II. Christian Fellowship was Evidenced by a Concern for the Needy.
- Acts 2:44, Prov. 14:31, Prov. 19:17, Matt. 25:34-46, Prov. 28:27
- Their concern was completely voluntary based on love not coercion.
- The first church responded with compassion to the poor – this is Authentic Fellowship. This is love in Action.
- When we do show this concern for others we show it to Jesus
III. Christian Fellowship Was Enhanced by Participation in Small Groups
- Acts 2:46-47, Eccl. 4:9-10
- Two facets to the early Church. 1) They met together in the temple courts for worship. 2) They met in smaller groups in homes.
- The main 2 groups that provide the bulk of our fellowship is Midweek “D” groups and Sunday School Classes.
- “A burden shared is half a burden and a joy shared is a double joy.”
IV. Christian Fellowship Was Expanded by a Joint Outreach
- Acts 2:47, Acts 4:4, Acts 5:14, Acts 6:1
- The fellowship was inclusive & evangelistic - NOT cliquish.
- The fellowship of the church needs to be so contagious and so authentic that it attracts people.
God did not intend for us to live the Christian life as disconnected, isolated, independent islands. He created us to be interrelated – our lives are to touch one another deeply. The need for deep fellowship can be found ONLY through Jesus Christ.
God’s Infallible Word
Acts 2:42
What is truth? How do we determine truth? Is there one source of unchanging truth that we can depend on for all time? Is it completely trustworthy? The First Church “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching” (Acts 2:42) which we are blessed to have handed down to us in the form of the written Word of God. Today we focus on God’s Word, the Bible and its relevance to our everyday life.
I. The Bible Teaches Inerrancy
II. History, Science, & Prophesy Confirm Inerrancy
III. Jesus Affirmed Inerrancy
IV. The Church Has Believed in Inerrancy
V. God’s Character Demands Inerrancy
How important is the Bible, God’s Word, to you? Do you sincerely believe all of it to be THE truth from God? If so, how does it affect your attitude, your speech, and your actions? Do you read or listen to God’s Word faithfully to see what God has to say to you?
Let Us Be One
John 17:20-23
Let us be one so that the world can be won.
Our Response To Temptation
Numbers 22:1-40
Erwin Lutzer said, “Our response to temptation is an accurate barometer of our love for God.” – Is your love for God hot, warm, or cold? Oscar Wilde said, “I can resist anything but temptation.” Do you handle temptation or does it handle you? Let’s look at a man who faced temptations to do his own will instead of God’s will and learn some lessons from how he handled and didn’t handle temptation.
I. Temptations Faced
A. F_______________ (22:1-13)
- “Drum major instinct & we all want to play H_________”
B. P_________ P_________________ (22:15-17)
- We want to “fit in” - Don’t C_______! Matt. 26:69-75; Rom. 12:2
C. M_____________ (22:18-40)
- “No matter how many pleasures Satan offers you, his ultimate
intention is to R___ you. Your destruction is his highest priority.”
II. Promises Made
A. Temptation W_______ C________, but….
- “God never tempts any man. That is S________ business.”
James 1:13-14. Temptation is not a sin; it is a call to B_______.
- Two people going down the same path in the same direction
seldom B____ into one another. Which direction are you headed?
- Luke 4:13; Hebrews 2:18; 4:15-16
B. Temptation Can Be O_________________
- 1 Cor. 10:13 – You will never face a temptation that cannot be
O______________ with the help of God!
Two Keys to Overcome Temptation
1. F____________ (1 Cor. 6:18; 10:14; 1 Tim. 6:11; 2 Tim. 2:22;
Gen. 39:12; Rom. 16:19)
- “F_______ temptation and don’t leave a forwarding address!”
2. F____________ (Eph. 6:10-17; Ps. 119:11; Rom. 6:6-7,14;
Jude 1:24-25; Gal. 5:16; 1 John 4:4; James 4:7; Rom. 16:20)
- “God delights in our temptations and yet hates them. He delights
in them when they drive us to P_________; He hates them when
they drive us to D__________.” – Martin Luther
You can win the battles against Satan and withstand his vicious assaults, no matter what temptations he throws your way. You must remember however, it is God and He alone that can keep you from falling and it is His promises that will keep you strong during attacks.
What Everybody Hopes
1 Corinthians 15
Hope keeps us going. It makes the difference between just getting by and really living. What is your hope in? Down deep what do you really hope for? Today let’s explore together What Everyone Hopes:
I. Message For Life — First Importance (15:3-5)
A. Death - Heb. 9:22, 27-28; Eph. 2:12-13. This paid the price for our Salvation.
B. Burial - Matt. 27:62-66. This provided the backdrop for the event of all eternity.
C. Resurrection - 1 Cor. 15:5-8; 17-19. Without this event our faith is futile.
II. Meaning For Life — First-Fruits (15:20-26)
A. In Adam all Die. Rom. 3:23; 1 Cor. 15:21. Because of the garden we experience physical death & because of our sin we experience spiritual death, but…..
B. In Christ all are made Alive. 1 Cor. 15:22, 50-51; 1 Pet. 1:3-5 “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed!”
III. Motivation For Life — First Priority (15:54-58)
A. Stand firm. 1 Cor. 15:58; Heb. 10:23-25; 1 Pet. 3:15. How would God consider your devotion & prayer life, love, worship attendance, witness, giving, forgiveness, attitude?
B. Give fully. 1 Cor. 15:58. Concerning your talents & abilities - How much is enough to give to God?
Those outside of Christ see only a Hopeless End, but the Christian rejoices in an Endless Hope! May your hope reside in the fact that you are ready when Christ comes again to gather His children home! Are you ready?
Rowdy Kindness
LUKE 10:25 – 37
Kindness is underrated. We equate it with being nice or pleasant, as though it’s mainly about smiling, getting along, and not ruffling feathers. But in reality: Biblical Kindness Changes Everything! Let’s explore rowdy kindness today as Jesus teaches us about a “Good Samaritan.”
I. Remembering & Receiving God’s Kindness
- Luke 10:25-26; Jer. 31:3; Ps. 106:7; Acts 14:16-17; Eph. 2:6-7;
Titus 3:4-5; Rom. 2:4
- We need to receive God’s kindness for ourselves first and then it overflows to others.
II. Retelling & Reflecting God’s Kindness
- Luke 10:27; Is. 63:7; Ps. 71:7-8; Rom. 11:22-23; Eph. 4:32
- Kindness shown in Christ name has a way of softening the hearts of
others so they are more receptive to the message of Christ that we
need to share.
III. Reenergizing Our Kindness
- Luke 10:28; Gal. 5:21-22; Col. 3:12
- Kindness is described as a fruit that is to be on our tree and clothing that we wear!
- How do we Grow in Kindness? - 1. Pray for God’s help. 2. Count the
kindnesses shown to you. 3. Try to see people the way Jesus sees
them. 4. Look around for needs. 5. Soften your Heart
IV. Recipients Of Our Kindness
- Luke 10:29; Gen. 4:9; Luke 6:35; Matt. 7:12; 28:19-20
- Compassion and Kindness is to be expressed toward EVERYONE.
“The ground is level at the foot of the cross.”
Who is your “neighbor” that needs your rowdy kindness today? How will you continue to grow in Kindness?
Real Obedience
MATTHEW 21:28 – 32
When Jesus says, “Let him who has ears to hear, let him hear,” He means, “Do what I am telling you to do.” Today’s parable stresses the priority of obedient actions over merely stated intentions. Real Obedience to God is needed in our Christian walk with God.
I. Repentance That Leads To Real Obedience Is Desired
The Lost Prodigal Son Can Come Home
Luke 15:32 “he was lost and is found.’” Acts 26:20 “… repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds.” Acts 3:19 “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…” Ezk. 18:30
II. Real Obedience Is More Than Lip Service
“What we do is more important than what we say we will do.”
Matt. 15:8, Is. 29:13, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Matt. 23:3 “But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.” James 1:22 “Do what it says” Matt. 7:21
III. Real Obedience Brings Blessings
“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Lk. 11:28
A. God Can Do Great Things Through Us -Heb. 13:21; Eph. 4:12;
2 Tim. 3:17
B. It is Great For Us Acts 5:32; Rom. 2:13; Eph. 6:1-3
C. It is Great For Others - Rom. 13:1-2; Deut. 5:16
D. We Avoid the Terrible Consequences of Not Obeying - 2 Thess. 1:8; 1 Sam. 31; Heb. 3:18-19; Rom. 6:23
IV. Love Drives Real Obedience
“Real Obedience is fueled by the experience of being Loved”
“We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
“Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.” John 14:23 “This is my command: Love each other.” John 15:9-10, 12-14, 17
“This is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands.” 2 Jn 1:6
We have a choice to really obey or disobey, to receive a blessing or a curse - just like the Israelites did when Moses said, “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse— the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God.” (Deut. 11:26-28)
Ravenous Prayer
Luke 11:5-10; 18:1-8; 1 Thess. 5:17
How is your prayer life? Could it use some tweaking, some improvement? Jesus told the story of the neighbor who was in need of bread for a visitor in Luke 11 to teach persistent in prayer. We also can gain some other insights into what God wants for us concerning our prayer life…
I. God Wants To Give Us Good Things
(“you have a friend” Luke 11:5)
- Martin Luther “Prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance, but laying hold of His willingness.”
- God listens attentively to us… 1 Pet. 3:12; God Cares for us … 1 Pet. 5:7; God Wants us not worry but to give us peace… Phil. 4:6-7; Matt. 6:31-34; God has the Power to help us… Jer. 32:17; Luke 1:37
II. God Wants Us To Pray Expectantly
(“you go to him” Luke 11:5)
- Mark 11:24; James 1:6-8; Heb. 11:1
III. God Wants Us To Pray Boldly
(“at midnight; shameless audacity” Luke 11:5,8)
- Heb. 4:16; 8:15; James 5:17; 1 Kings 18:36-39
IV. God Wants Us To Pray Sincerely
(“I have no food to offer him.’” Luke 11:6)
A. Pray abiding in & living for Jesus - John 15:7; Psalm 66:18;
Is. 59:2; 1 Thess. 5:17; Ps. 141:2; Rev. 8:4
B. Pray seeking Jesus’ will & purposes - 1 John 5:14-15; James 4:3
V. God Wants Us to Pray Persistently
(“shameless audacity, ask, seek, knock” Luke 11:8-10)
- This is not one act, but a series of “acts”.
- Luke 18:1-8; Eph. 3:20; Rom. 12:12; Ps. 88:1; Col. 4:2
Jesus says, “However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18: 8) Will Jesus find faith in our home, in our personal prayer time, in our influence at work or school, and in our Church? Will we be persistent in prayer… asking, seeking, and knocking?
Radical Forgiveness
Matthew 18:21-35
“Peter came to Jesus and asked Him, ‘Lord how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matt. 18:21-22) Grace doesn’t keep count. “Love keeps no record of wrongs.” (1 Cor. 13:5) Jesus knew that failing to forgive is a major issue with us, so it’s why Jesus tells this story with some lessons we best learn…
I. We Owe A Debt We Cannot Pay (vs. 23-26)
A. We All Have A Massive Debt– Rom. 3:23,10; Is. 64:6; 6:5;
1 Tim. 1:16
B. We Deserve Death - Romans 6:23; 5:12
II. God Forgave Our Debt That He Did Not Owe (vs. 27)
Rom. 6:23; 7:24-25; 1 Pet 2:24; 2 Cor. 5:21; Lk 7:40-48; 1 Tim. 1:15-16
III. We Are To Forgive Debts Others Owe To Us (vs. 21-22, 28-35)
A. What the Bondage of Bitterness Brings…
Jam. 2:12-13; Matt. 18:35; 6:14-15; Heb. 12:15; Eph. 5:26-27
1. Physically -
2. Spiritually -
B. What the Freedom of Forgiveness Brings…
Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13; Mark 11:25; Matt. 6:12-15; 5:7
C. What I Can Do Practically to Forgive…
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew.6:14-15) When we learn to forgive others who’ve hurt us we become like our Father. God asks us to actively seek to forgive those who’ve hurt us so we can become like HIM.
Redunkulous Faith
Matthew 13:1-23; Luke 8:5-15
“Without faith it is impossible to please God.” (Heb. 11:6) Spiritual Faith is believing and trusting that God and His Words are true. Our Christian Faith is the result of hearing God’s teaching. (Rom. 10:17) Does God still speak today? If so, how are we listening? Jesus speaks to this subject in what is known as the parable of the sower…
I. The SOWER - Who do we listen to?
Luke 19:10; 2 Pet. 3:9; 1 Tim. 2:3-4; John 3:16-18
II. The SEED - What do we listen to?
Lk. 8:11; Acts 8:11; Col. 1:13-14; Heb. 4:12; Acts 11:14
III. The SOIL - How do we listen?
A. A SURFACE Heart – No RECEPTION – (Voice of Satan)
John 10:10; 1 Pet. 5:8; Heb. 4:7; 3:15
B. A SHALLOW Heart – No ROOT (Voice of Self)
1 Cor. 6:19; Eph. 1:13-14; Gal. 5:17
C. A STRANGLED Heart – No ROOM (Voice of Society)
Luke 8:14; Titus 3:3; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 4:3-4; Matt. 24:12
D. A SURRENDERED Heart – No RESISTANCE (Voice of the
Savior)
Acts 2:41; 4:4; Mark 4:24; Luke 11:28; 2 Tim. 2:15;
1 Tim. 4:7; 1 John 4:6
Are we quick to listen to God? (James 1:19) Are we listening to other voices instead? (Rom. 12:1-2) Are we growing in our faith and bearing fruit because we have listened? (John 15:5)
Run Your Race
Hebrews 11:33
“…Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1) Running the Christian race in such a way that we can say with Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7) is what each of us should desire. Let’s look today at some pointers from some of God’s heroes of the faith who made this happen….
I. Step Up! - (David)
“Who through faith conquered kingdoms” Heb. 11:33
1 Sam. 17:34-36; 2 Sam. 5:17-25; 8:1-2; 12:26; 2 Thess. 1:3; Col. 1:10; 2 Pet. 3:18
II. Follow Through! – (Samuel)
“Administered justice” Heb. 11:33
Isaiah 30:18; Psalm 89:14; 1 Pet. 1:16; 1 Sam. 8:1-9; Gal. 6:7-9
III. Show Up! – (Samson)
“Shut the mouths of lions” Heb. 11:33
Judges 14:5-6; Eccl. 3:1; Rom. 8:29; Col. 3:1-3
IV. Look Up! – (Gideon)
“Gained what was promised” Heb. 11:33
Judges 6 & 7; Heb. 11:13, 39; 12:1-3; 13:6; Col. 1:17-18; 2:10-15; Heb. 10:19
Let’s be Christians who don’t give up and who finish well so that we may gain the victors’ crown! “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (1 Cor. 9:25)
Obstacle Course
Hebrews 11:23-29; 12:1-2
Do you face obstacles to your faith? The faith heroes faced significant & surprising obstacles. Moses was commended for how he overcame his obstacles in Hebrews 11 – let’s learn from his faith, His parents’ faith, & His people’s faith…
I. Obstacles of Fear (Ladder) - Trust God’s Promises (vs. 23)
- Ex. 1:11,13, 22; Is. 41:10; Ps. 121:7-8; 32:7; 2 Thess. 3:3; Nah. 1:7
II. Obstacles of Disorientation (Cones) - Trust God’s Pleasure & Purposes (vs. 24-26)
III. Obstacles of Opposition (People) - Trust God’s Power (vs. 27)
IV. Obstacles of Duration (Egg Crawl) - Trust God’s Persistence (vs. 27)
V. Obstacles of Complexity (Steps) - Trust God’s Plan (vs. 28)
- Rom. 8:28; Jer. 29:11; Prov. 3:5-6
VI. Obstacles of Surprise (Silly String) - Trust God’s Passion (vs. 29)
Hebrews 12:1 invites us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” We all face obstacles in our spiritual race and at some point the challenge of running our race comes down to whether we will give up or keep going. Trust God – He will carry us onto victory!!!
Throw Off the Weight (pt. I - III)
“Let us throw off everything that hinders & the sin that so easily entangles” (Heb. 12:1). Let’s expose the Devil’s lies & see how to combat them… And in turn throw off what hinders our spiritual race!
I. “What If” Lies - Fear Focused Feelings
1 Peter 5:6-7 Transfer the weight to Jesus. He can handle it and He Cares! Ps. 56:8 Our Worry Relates to:
A. The Unknown Matt. 6:34
B. The Unlikely Eccl. 1:18
C. The Uncontrollable Phil. 4:6-7 Pride Makes Me…
II. Trying to Live a Lie - Fake Fiendish Faith
Matt. 3:4; 23:4-5; 11:28-30; Gal. 2:19-21
Because We Can Never Measure Up Alone:
A. We Will Grow Frustrated
B. We Will Feel Exhausted
C. We Will Fake Until We Can’t Fake Anymore
D. We Will End Up Conceited or Defeated
III. Believing Lies - Following Filthy Falsehoods
A. The Devil Deals In Lies - John 10:10; 2 Cor. 2:11; 2 Cor. 11:3
B. Jesus is Truth - John 14:6; 8:32
C. Common Satanic Lies: 1) You Don’t Have What it Takes - 2 Pet. 1:3; 2 Cor. 12:9; Phil. 4:13; 2) You Can Fix it Yourself - Heb. 4:14-16;
3) You Deserve to be Happy - Ps. 37:4; 32:11; 144:15; Phil. 4:4; Matt. 20:28; Neh. 8:10
IV. Living a Lie – Faithless Fatal Failures
A. Continual Sin Brings Guilt, Shame, Fatigue, Separation, & Apathy
B. Jesus Brings Freedom
C. Will We Believe Jesus?
Heb. 12:4; Ps. 32:3-4; Heb. 10:1-4, 22; Rom. 3:23-24; 2 Cor. 5:21
What weight is slowing you down and could possibly cause you to give up? What bag of lies has Satan sold you? His deception has been exposed today - Transfer your weight to: The Way, The Truth, The Life!
Faith Hall of Fame – Victim or Victor?
The pain and injustice of this world can feel overwhelming. But don’t give up! Hebrews 11 reminds us that we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses – a great “Faith Hall of Fame.” Heb. 11:35-38 speaks of unnamed heroes that encourage us. If they could find the faith to keep believing and keep going, then we can make it through what we’re going through. Their tough love testimony may just be what we need to hear today if we have a victim mentality. Are You a Victim or a Victor?
I. Pity Party or Praise Party?
II. Find Fault or Find Faith Examples?
III. Pessimistic Perspective or Positive Perspective?
Perhaps what happened to you was unfair & unjust; and what you’re going through seems never ending and harsh. But remember whose you are and that you can choose how you react to the circumstances around you. We are only passing through – heading to victory row in Christ Jesus!
Keep Believing
Oftentimes the pieces in our lives don’t fit neatly together. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” (Heb. 11:1–2) These “ancients”, these “cloud of witnesses” have real words of power to speak into our struggles. Get ready to take a stroll through the Hall of Fame and learn needed messages that we all need to persevere and not give up!
I. Faith is Seeing & Acting on the Big Picture
- Faith is believing that God has a purpose, even when there seems to be no reason. Heb. 11:4; Gen. 12:8 – God Asks Abraham to Move
- There are no stories of faith that are risk-free - Faith is always sending us somewhere!
- Ask yourself: Am I following God in a way that requires faith? Do I do anything at all in my life that requires courage and confidence? Don’t tell me you have faith – tell me a story!
- Faith that doesn’t quit means taking action and moving forward.
- James 2:14-18 “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead”
II. Faith Is Trusting Against All Odds
- Gen. 15:5-6; Rom. 4:18-21; Heb. 11:12 – God Promises Abraham A Son In His Old Age
- Faith that gives you the confidence to keep believing and the courage to keep going is not faith in life’s circumstances; it’s faith in God’s Character.
- Matt. 19:26; Heb. 11:6 - True faith believes when others say, “No way”
III. Faith is Willingness to Sacrifice All
- Gen. 22:1-19; Heb. 11:19 – God Asks Abraham to Sacrifice His Son
- Abraham holds on to God’s promise even when the story doesn’t seem to make sense. Gen. 22:5
- Where is the point at which you would abandon all hope? Abraham’s limit is undefined! If God is powerful enough to raise the dead, what can’t he do? Heb. 11:19
- “The LORD Will Provide” (Gen. 22:14) Will we trust Him to provide in our life with whatever, however, and whenever?
If the pieces of your life don’t seem as if they could possibly fit into a beautiful picture, Abraham has a message for you from the cloud: “Keep Believing – Don’t Give Up!”
Prayerful Pictures of the Baby’s Father
Matthew 6:9-13
1. His Paternity
Matthew 7:7-11
2. His Position
Ecclesiastes 5:2; Revelation 4:7-11
3. His Prestige
Daniel 2:37-45; Matthew 25:34
4. His Patience
2 Peter 3:9
5. His Power
Matthew 26:39
6. His Provision
7. His Pardoning
Matthew 18:25-35
8. His Preserving
2 Peter 2:9
9. His Protection
2 Timothy 4:18
10. His Praiseworthiness
“I Am” -Jesus
Various Verses in John
The Power of the Cross To Honor… Mary
“Honor your father and your mother…” Ex. 20:12 Let’s consider how Jesus honored Mary on several different occasions and how she honored God at the same occasions and let’s be determined to follow in their footsteps as we learn the value of Honor in our lives...
I. Mary Honored God With Jesus Birth AND God Honored Mary With Jesus Birth
A. Mary Honored God - Luke 1:28, 42-45; Prov. 21:21; Luke 1:38, 46-48;
Luke 2:19, 34-35 Mary herself sets the example for us, directing her
worship, adoration, and praise to God alone.
B. God Honored Mary - Luke 1:28, 47; Rom. 3:23; 6:23; Matt. 1:25;
13:55–56; Luke 11:27-28; Luke 1:46–55 However, nowhere in Scripture
does Jesus or anyone else direct any praise, glory, or adoration toward
Mary.
II. Mary Honored God During Jesus Life AND Jesus Honored Mary During His Life
A. Mary Honored Jesus - Luke 2:46-52; John 2:1–11; Mark 3:20–21, 31-35
Mary had faith in Jesus
B. Jesus Honored Mary – Luke 2:51; John 2; Mark 3 Jesus was obedient to
His parents.
III. Mary Honored God At Jesus Death AND Jesus Honored Mary At His Death
A. Mary Honored Jesus - John 19:25-27 Mary was where she needed to be.
B. Jesus Honored Mary - John 19:25-27; Lev. 19:32; James 1:27; Ex. 20:12;
Eph. 6:1-3 Jesus did not forget His earthly responsibilities.
The power of the Cross reminds us that we are to honor God in our recognition that the gift of life eternal and the very salvation of our souls come through Jesus Christ and Him alone. Mary and Jesus taught us much about honor throughout their lives… may we follow their example. (Acts 1:14, Rev. 4:11)
The Power of the Cross… To Embolden…Joseph and Nicodemus
John 19:38- 39; Mark 15:43
"There is no such thing as secret discipleship. Either your secrecy will destroy your discipleship, or your discipleship will destroy your secrecy." The Cross of Christ transformed Joseph & Nicodemus from secret disciples to bold witnesses. The power of the cross emboldens us
Run To God
“Hide and Seek” is a child’s game that we still often try to play with God. Instead of running to God – like Adam and Eve, we hide and run away. Let’s discuss today why they ran away so we can do the opposite…
I. THE DECEITFUL DESIGN
A. Origin of Deceit - Rev. 12:9; 20:2; John 8:44; Eph. 6:11;
2 Cor. 11:14; 1 Peter 5:8
B. Methods of Deceit - 1 John 2:15-16; Gen. 3:5; John 10:10
II. THE DELIBERATE DISOBEDIENCE
Stages to Disobedience – Gen. 3:6; James 1:13-15
1. Desire 2. Deception. 3. Disobedience 4. Death.
III. THE DISGRACED DUO
A. Shame and Guilt of Sin - Genesis 2:16–17; 3:7-10
B. Fear as a Result of Sin - Gen. 3:9-10; 2 Timothy 1:7; 1 John 4:18
C. Separation That Always Comes Because of Sin - Eph. 4:18
D. Attempts to Cover up Sin - Gen. 3:7-8,12-13; John 8:7,9,11
IV. THE DIVINE DELIVERANCE
A. Our “Fig-leaf” Works Won’t Cover Sin – Lev. 17:11; Heb. 9:22;
Isaiah 64:6; Eph 2:8–9
B. Only the Shedding of Blood Covers Sin - 1 John 3:16; 4:9–10;
2 Cor. 5:21; Is. 61:10; Romans 3:21–31
C. Will We Be Clothed in Christ to Cover Our Sin? – Acts 2:38;
Rom. 6:3-4; Rom. 13:14; John 14:1-3
Will we learn from Adam and Eve the pain, consequences, and dead-end road of sin? Let’s learn to run to God – not try to hide from Him!
3.5.2023 - "Made In God's Image"
The Image of God
Genesis 1:26-27; 5:1; Eph. 5:1-2
We live in a society which has lost its way and purpose because we have forgotten who and whose we are! Since we are the product of divine design, we have been created with dignity, value, worth, and purpose.
I. Reflect His Image - “in His Image”(Gen. 1:26)
- “We are like God in ways that nothing else in creation is like God, although we are not so like Him that there is no distinction between Creator and creature.” Eccl. 7:21; Ps. 8:5; Rom. 2:15
II. Reveal His Likeness - “in the likeness of God” (Gen. 5:1)
- Our worth & value is intrinsic because we have been created in the image & likeness of God to display His character -Ezk. 1:10; Ps. 19:1; Is. 43:7; Rom. 11:36
III. Represent His Rule - “have dominion over” (Gen. 1:27)
- Mankind is the pinnacle of God’s creative activity and was put in charge over all the earth. Gen. 1:26-28; 4:7
IV. Reproduce His Qualities - “be imitators of God” (Eph. 5:1)
- In our Speech toward “image bearers” of God– James 5:10
- In our attitudes toward prisoners – Matt. 25:39-40
- In our protection of babes in the womb – Ps. 139:13
- In our love for “all ages” – 1 Tim. 4:12; Lev. 19:32
- In our treatment of “all races” – James 2:1; Gal. 3:28
- In our disagreement over politics – Eph. 4:32
- In our concern for the persecuted – Heb. 13:3
- In our behavior with the disabled/handicapped – Luke 14:13-14
- In our thoughts of the marginalized – Prov. 22:2; James 2:1-4
- In our views toward Immigrants & Refugees – Lev. 19:33-34
- In our love for our enemies – Matt. 5:44
- In our care for orphans & widows – James 1:27
- In our sensitivity to those who are deaf/ hard of hearing or blind/poor eyesight - Matt. 11:5; Lev. 19:14
- In our dealings with those with mental illness, depression, suicidal tendencies – Matt. 7:12
- In our judging others’ sins – Matt. 7:1-3; James 4:11-12
We matter to God! We are an “Image-bearer” of the Creator of Universe! Because of that we have value, meaning, and purpose. Everyone we meet is also an “Image-bearer!” Let’s treat them all as such!
2.26.2023 - "Sowing and Reaping
Sowing And Reaping
Genesis 1:11; Hosea 8:7; Galatians 6:7-9
The principle of sowing & reaping is as old as life itself (Gen. 1:11). What we sow is what we reap. Have we considered lately exactly how we should sow? As Christians we need to be reminded that:
I. WE SOW WITH THE HARVEST IN MIND
A. Harvest Is A Different Season – Gal.6:9; Eccl. 11:1; 8:11; Ps. 121:4; Gen. 8:22
B. Sowers Look Forward, Not Backward - Prov. 21:11; Eph. 5:15-18; Psalm 90:12; 2 Chron. 7:14
C. Harvesters May Be Different Ones Than Sowers – 1 Cor. 3:6; John 4:37-38
D. God Is Lord Of The Harvest – 1 Cor. 3:6; Phil 4:19; 2 Cor. 9:10; Acts 14:17
II. WE REAP WHAT WE AND OTHERS SOW
A. In Proportion -2 Cor. 9:6; Prov. 11:24-26; Ex. 21:24
B. Of The Same Kind – Gen.1:11 & 12; John 3:6; Gal.6:7-8; Job 4:8; Matt. 13:24-30
III. WE HARVEST MORE THAN WE SOW
A. Perhaps Now, But Definitely Later - Luke 6:38; Mal. 3:10; 2 Cor. 9:6-11
B. Only If We Persevere – Gal. 6:9; Rev. 2:10; Heb. 10:36
What are we sowing? How are we participating in the harvest? What do we need to change?
2.19.2023 - "Something From Nothing"
Something From Nothing
Genesis 1:1
Hubert Spencer gave the world 5 scientific principles by which we may study the unknown. The Bible begins with these 5 in the Creation account: "In the beginning" --time; "God"-- force; "created" -- energy; "the heavens" --space; "and the earth" -- matter. From this account we discover much about our God and our responsibilities to Him…
I. Creation Demands Acknowledging Our Creator As THE God
- Gen. 1:1; Rom. 1:18-25; Jn 1:1-3; Ex. 20:3-5,11; Ps. 19:1-4
- Evolution gives man an excuse to not believe in a Creator!
II. Creation Compels Worshipping Our Creator As Lord
- Neh. 9:6; Is. 43:21; Rev. 4:10-11; Ps. 95:6; Mat. 4:10
- Luke 19:40; Ps. 98:7-9 – Will we join Creation in Praise?
III. Creation Establishes Obeying Our Creator As Ruler
– Rev. 3:14; Col. 1:15-16; Is. 45:9; 64:8; Matt. 28:18; John 14:15
-“If we are at peace with God, we will be at war with our sin. But if we are at peace with our sin, we will be at war with God.”
IV. Creation Authenticates Honoring Our Creator As Owner
- Ex. 19:5; Ps. 24:1-2; 1 Cor. 10:26; Deut. 10:14; Ps. 50:10; 1 Chron. 29:11-13; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 1 Tim. 6:7; Matt. 6:24;
- God owns it all; we are called to be Stewards of what is His – Mal. 3:8-10; 1 Cor. 16:2
What will be our response to Creation and our Creator?
2.12.2023 - Luke Swain Preaching
2.05.2023 - "Dig Into the Wall"
Dig Into The Wall
Exodus 34:14; Ezekiel 8:1-18
God made us and He bought us back with Jesus’ sacrifice. We belong to God twice! No wonder He is jealous of us! Let’s “Dig Into” this today and see what that means for our relationship with God…
I. Dig Into… What Does It Mean That God Is A Jealous God
- 1 Pet. 1:18-19; Ex. 34:14; Col. 1:16; Everything was Created by God and for God. God’s Name is Jealous & He is Jealous about His relationship with us!
- 1 Jn 3:1; Gal. 3:26 - God loves us as Children He created & redeemed
- John 3:29; 2 Cor. 11:2 – God is jealous over us as a Bridegroom is over His Bride (Church)
- “Forsaking All Others….” – Exclusive Love Relationship that excludes others or anything from being the top priority! Mark 12:30
II. Dig Into… What Are Our Idols of Jealousy
- Ezk. 8:3-6 – “The jealousy that provokes jealousy”
- Idolatry is anything that keeps God from being our All in All – What is that to you?
- Ex. 20:4-5; 34:14; Ps. 106:19-20; 1 John 5:21 – What do we show affection for & what have we traded in for God?
III. Dig Into… What Are Our Hidden Idols
- Ezk. 8:6-12; Heb. 4:13 – Nothing is hidden from the All Seeing God!
- Do we have Secret Rooms? Who/What do we love? 1 John 2:15-17
- Confession is a Must – James 5:16; 1 John 1:8-10
- Jesus knocks on the closet doors too! – Rev. 3:20
IV. Dig Into… What Are Our Emotional Idols
- Ezk. 8:13-14; John 2:14-17 - God is zealous & passionate.
- Are we having an “Emotional Affair” with another “god?”
- Do we love what God loves; hate what He hates; etc?
God is jealous for you and me! It is amazing that He feels that way about us! Let’s examine ourselves (2 Cor. 13:5) to make sure we are doing NOTHING to make Him jealous!
1.29.2023 - "Throw Down Your Staff"
Throw Down Your Staff
Let’s look at Moses’ story to learn what Moses had in his hands & how God used each thing to help grow Moses into the servant He wanted. Each of these are teachable moments for us &our growing walk with the Lord.
I. What’s In Your Hand? - Fist Ex. 2:11-12
Failure Can Lead To Faith
- “Do it my way” can lead to dire consequences! Ex. 2:13-15
- Moses was a Felon and Fugitive – God is a God of Second chances & abounding Love & Forgiveness - Ps. 103:7-12
- The War is Won, Anything is Possible – Phil. 4:13
II. What’s In Your Hand – Water Ex. 2:16-17
Look For Opportunities
- This would foreshadow the role of Moses with God’s people
- Making ourselves ready to help, witness, give, encourage, & pray is what God asks– Matt. 10:42; 25:40; Gal. 6:10; Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5
III. What’s In Your Hand – Sandals Ex. 3:4-5
Know your Place
- God is OMNI________________. We Are Not God! - Hos. 11:9
- It's not about who we are. It's about whose we are! - Ex. 3:11-12
- “I AM WHO I AM” - Ex. 3:13-15 - God’s power & Character
- God has chosen to accomplish His purposes through ordinary people – 1 Cor. 3:9; 1:27
- Ex. 4:10-16; 6:12; Acts 7:22 – God used Moses and will use us “In Spite Of” ____________ . In this way God gets the glory!
IV. What’s In Your Hand – Staff Ex. 4:1-4
Let Go and Let God
- God was asking Moses to let go of who he was and what he had - Will we take our hands off the Controls? If not It controls us!
- Jer. 29:11 - God has Plans for us – We have to surrender all!
- Ex. 14:16; Jud. 15:15; 1 Sam. 17:40; John 6:9 – God can use what’s in our hands, whatever it is, to do miraculous things!
What is in our hands? Will we grow in appreciation of God’s forgiveness, look for occasions to help others, recognize God’s power & our place, & let go and let God?
1.22.2023 - "Build an Ark"
Build An Ark
Heb. 11:6-7; Gen.6:8-22; 7:5
Are we “All In” for God or are we holding back? Noah was someone who showed he was “All In” by going “All Out” for God and he “Built an Ark” (Heb.11:7). Noah provides some life lessons for us to chew on as we seek to develop a greater hunger for God…
I. It Takes Knowing & Doing Not Just Knowing
- James 4:8; Heb. 11:6-7; Matt. 25:21
- Spiritual Maturity is the “Theoretical Becoming the Experiential”
- Mark 12:30 - Sweat Equity, Being the hands and Feet of Jesus
- 1 Cor. 12:27; 2 Cor. 6:16 -Church is Not A Spectator Sport
- God Goes With Us Wherever We Go – John 14:16-17
II. It Takes Faith Not Fear
- Gen. 6:15; Heb. 11:7 - It took immeasurable faith to build the ark.
- Trust God with our Future - Is. 41:10; Ps. 56:3-4; 118:6; Rom. 8:31
- Pick Faith Over Fear Each Time!
III. It Takes Long-Term Obedience Not Infatuation
- Rev. 2:10 True Faith in God is Continuing Commitment & Obedience
- “Did you do what you were supposed to do?”
- James 2:17,22, 24; Eph. 2:10 – Faith in Action
IV. It Takes Leaving the Comfortable Not Staying There
- Gen. 1:6-8; 2:5-6; 6:22; Heb. 11:7 – What Noah Did Was Unprecedented!
- For God to do something new, we can’t keep doing what we've always done. - We want to See and Know the Next Step, but that Negates Faith!
- Sometimes we need to take a flying leap of faith!
V. It Takes God’s Favor Not The World’s
- Gen. 6:8; Luke 2:52 – How do we find God’s Favor?
- We position ourselves for the favor of God by walking in humility, righteousness, & purity.
- No matter what it is, if it’s God honoring, God wants to help you do it!
VI. It Takes Looking Foolish Not Playing It Safe
- If we aren’t willing to look foolish, we are foolish.
- Act on your Faith – Peter, David, Moses, Noah - Dress for a Miracle!
VII. It Takes Faithful Persistence Not Giving Up
- One Day at a Time - Obedience is hard work, and it gets harder.
- 2 Tim. 4:7 - Going all out is going the distance!
Will we learn from Noah how to build an ark for God?
1.15.2023 - "Burn the Plows"
Burn the Plows
1 Kings 19:21; Luke 9:23-24; Phil. 3:13-14
Are we “ALL IN?” Perhaps we believe we are following Jesus when in reality, we have invited Jesus to follow us! Perhaps we live lives that reflect that we are more “self-centered” than “Christ-centered.” Let’s ask ourselves: “Am I Hungry For God?” Will we…
I. Leave The Old
- Eliminate the possibility of moving backward into the past – That’s how we go after goals, break addictions, reconcile relationships, & foster New Godly Habits.
- Have We Made A Statement of Faith? What Should Ours Be? _________________________________________________________
- Zacchaeus – Luke 19:8; Woman with Expensive Perfume – Mark 14:3; Revival in Ephesus – Acts 19:19
- Our Spiritual Problem – We want God to do Something New While We Keep Doing the Same Old Thing – Matt. 9:17
II. Embrace The New
- When we cling too tightly to what God did last, we often miss what God wants to do next - Amos 5:5; Ex. 3:14; Ps. 46:1
- Phil. 3:13 -14 – What area do you need to “Press On?”
- Matt. 11:12 - Is the kingdom “forcefully advancing” in our lives?
- Luke 17:5 – Let us say with the Apostles, “Increase Our Faith!”
- Heb. 6:1 - We need to cease being satisfied with elementary school Christianity!
- 2 Kings 2:9 – We tend to be play it safe – Not Elisha!
- James 2:3 - We have not because we ask not, and we ask not because we're not all in!
- Elisha didn’t hold out on God so God didn't hold out on Elisha.
- Matt. 20:16 - If we aren't willing to begin at the beginning, God cannot use us.
What does it mean in our life to “Burn the Plows?” Will we risk all for Jesus who gave His all for us?
1.8.2023 - "What Is Your Life?"
What Is Your Life?
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
What is your life?... It is a piling up of minutes. What we are doing with these minutes. How does my life count? You get to choose how to spend the minutes you are given on this earthly existence. What are you spending yours on? That is our focus today.
I. Keep An Eye On The M_________ Ecclesiastes 3:1-9
- Solomon says there are a lot of ways our time gets spent. Are we watching what we do with our moments? Are we looking for O____________ for S__________?
- Ephesians 5:15-16 “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as W______, making the most of every O__________, because the days are evil.”
- What is LIFE – We could use this acrostic – L.I.F.E.
L_______ – the things you really care about. 1 Cor. 13
I______________ – the opportunities that come our way. - Are we using these wisely with outsiders? Col. 4:5-6
F_____________ – Our time, our talents, & our treasure at our disposal to use. 1 Pet. 2:5; Rom. 12:1
E___________ – Our life is part of God’s P___ – do we see it?
- Life is S_________. – James 4:14
- Jesus wants to have a B_______ Life – John 10:10
- God has some good things P________ for you to do. Eph. 2:10
- There is some way that God’s story is going to be W_________ through your story.
II. Keep An Eye On E___________ Ecclesiastes 3:10-11
- God’s Perspective is a L_________ V______
- God makes Everything B___________ in its time.
- God might take some D____________ from our past and find a way for us to turn that into good into somebody else’s life.
- There is a God-shaped V___________ in each of our hearts
- This world is T___________ – 2 Pet. 3:10-12
- We have L____ E_______ if we have Jesus – 1 John 5:11-12
- God invites us into the story and to help write the story.
Did you know that the only one who preaches your funeral is you? You are preaching it now. You are writing your dash on your tombstone. This is your life… for God’s sake… what are you doing with it?
1.1.2023 - John Maurice Preaching
(no outline)
12.25.2022 - Seth Ambrose Preaching
(no outline)
12.18.2022 - It Really Is a Wonderful Life"
It Really is a Wonderful Life - How Jesus Changed the World!
“Strange isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives and when he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?” – How would the world be different if Jesus Christ had never been born?
I. Life Would Be L_________
A. Women – Women’s E___________ would be V___________. Gal. 2:28
B. Children – Children would be P___________. Matt. 19:14-15; Gen. 1:27; Psalm 139:13-16
C. Slavery – Slavery may still be in existence…and YOU AND I could be it’s ___________. Luke 6:31
D. Gladiators – Gladiatorial games may still be going on. Matt. 5:21-22
II. Government Would Be G__________
- Is. 9:6 – if Jesus doesn’t come, this verse is silenced. It’s meaning is lost & the governments of men rest solely on the W______ of M_____.
- 50 of the ________ signers of the Declaration of Independence were confessed Christians. Many of our laws are based on the teachings of Christ. (that all men are created equal & the sovereignty of God)
- The idea of Civil L__________ would be foreign. John Adams – 2 Cor. 3:17
- Maybe there is no _______________ as we know it – if Jesus isn’t born.
III. People Would Be Left P_____________
- Eph. 3:16-17 Jesus comes in and makes a profound difference. But, if Jesus isn’t born those C___________ never take place. – 2 blind men, deaf & mute, widow’s son, ten lepers, 400& 5000, Lazarus, Centurion’s servant, man with the shriveled hand, Jairus’ daughter, Samaritan woman, Zacchaeus, Peter & John, Paul, - You and I
- Christianity has helped preserve the F____________!
IV. Humanity Would Be H_____________
- Matt. 10:29-31; Jn 14:2-4; Rom. 5:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:19-20
- Salvation! The forgiveness of sins! The possibility that the past can be E_______ and the evil W_______ A________. That’s the hope of humanity! That’s the hope of Christ!
Praise God, Jesus did Come!!! If you are not a Christian – enjoy the coming of Christ by accepting His offer of eternal life. And if you are already a Christian – thank God for the Wonderful Life provided you through Christ and ask yourself – what if I wasn’t born? Are you making a difference in others’ lives with Jesus’ message of Hope?
12.11.2022 - "The Birth of the King"
The Birth of the King
Today we celebrate the hinge of history, that moment 2000 years ago when God Himself traveled from heaven to earth. The one thread that is woven throughout God’s entire story is that He has a desire to reconcile people back to Himself. And the Christmas Story is about that story line being fulfilled. Let’s explore today the Birth of the King…
I. His Son Is B_________ - Luke 2:1-20 - The King of kings was born not like most E_____. - John 1:1 & 2: “In the beginning was the Word..”- Jesus is E____ just like God the Father and the Holy Spirit are E_________. - Jesus was Fully H_______ & Fully D_______ God at the same time - Some people miss Jesus because they’re waiting for something supernatural. Jesus most often comes through the C_________. - Will we listen? Will we respond? Will we be drawn closer to Him?
II. His Birth Is H__________ - God uses H____ people - a young virgin girl named Mary & a simple carpenter named Joseph. He uses people like us in spite of our F___. - “The Word became flesh” & was placed in a F____ trough –Jn. 1:14 - Jesus can S____________ with our needs. - Heb. 4:15-16- God’s humble beginning here on this earth gives us hope in our humble C______________. Will we let Him in our INN?
III. His Acceptance Is V_____________ - God has a P_____. Only God could give us Jesus, & only Jesus could give us the forgiveness of sins. 2 Cor. 9:15 - “I__________ gift!” - God willingly gave the most generous gift knowing that many people would R_________ it – Mark 12:10 - God Keeps His P_________ - 2 Peter 1:19-21 “… the word of the prophets made more certain” - God is showing His Strength & that this is His Story by: P______. - No A___________… Micah 5:2 – Bethlehem; Is. 7:14 – Virgin birth; Is. 53 & Ps. 22:16-18 Crucifixion; Zach. 11:12-13 -30 pieces of silver - God waits for the T________ to be just perfect - Galatians 4:4- 5 - Many did not receive Him because of P_______ I____ – Jn. 1:11 - Jesus wasn’t just a G_____ M____ or a P_________. He was and is the Savior of the world. Luke 2:11 - “There is one thing better than man walking on the moon, and that is God walking on the earth.” – James Irwin. Will you walk with Him?
The Bible can be divided into 3 phrases- the Old Testament: “Jesus is coming;” the Gospels: “Jesus is here;” & the rest: “Jesus is coming again, so you better get ready.” Are you ready to for Jesus coming?
12.4.2022 - Discover the Light of Christmas"
Discover the Light of Christmas
Do we know what Christmas is all about? Could it be that we need to discover the real Light of Christmas again?
I. Jesus Came As the Light of the World
A. The World Was Dark N____________ Light
Gen. 6:5; Rom. 1:21-30 The world is dark – dark with sin!
Rom. 6:23 “The wages of sin is death!”
B. Jesus is THE Light for Us to F___________
John 8:12; 9:5; 12:36, 46 Our acceptance of that light in our lives means life – not death! 1 John 1:7 We are able to walk in the light because Jesus paid the ultimate P__________ for sin. Heb. 10:10
II. We Are To Light the World
A. The Devil tried & tries to P_______ the Lighting.
1) Through lack of U________________. John 1:5, 9-10; 2 Cor. 4:4
2)Through hiding our W____________. Matt. 5:14-16
3)Through the appeal of evil D__________. John 3:19-21
4)Through various E____________.
B. Jesus Calls us and E_______________ us to Light the World
Paul used his T______________ 1 Tim. 1:15-16
God empowered Paul Acts 26:17-18
God does and will E____________ Us Eph. 3:20-22
This world is certainly in need of the Light of Christ this Christmas and always. Will you let it shine? Will the love of God shown by sending His Son to be born in a manger be shone in your life?
11.27.2022 - "Unchanging Truths"
Unchanging Truths
Isaiah 59:1-2
In a day of changes, we need TRUTHS that remain the same and that we can depend on always. We need a foundation to build on. We find some of these crucial unmovable truths tucked away in the book of Isaiah…
I. God's Power to Save Remains the Same
Isaiah 59:1 “Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save…”
A. God is Able to Save Us from Physical Danger
Opened the Red Sea; delivered Daniel; He saved Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego; He saved all mankind through Noah
B. God is Able to Save Us from Death
John 3:3-5, 16; Luke 23:39-43; Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:18
C. This is a statement that has remained true through the ages. God is & has been & will be “mighty to save.” Is. 63:1; Zeph. 3:17; Jer. 32:17
II. God's Ability to Hear & Answer Prayer Remains the Same Isaiah 59:1 “…nor his ear too dull to hear.”
A. Old Testament - Ex. 3:7-8; Jer. 33:3; Ps. 4:3; 34:17 & 69:33
B. New Testament - Acts 1:14; 4:31; 2:42
C. Today – Matt. 7:7-8; James 1:5-8; 5:16-18; Rom. 12:12; 1 Thess. 5:17; Rev. 8:3-4; Eph. 3:20
III. The Destructiveness of Sin Remains the Same
Isaiah 59:2 “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”
A. Sin Separates Us From God – Is. 59:3,6-7; Eph. 4:18; Matt. 6:24; Col. 1:21; 1 Tim. 1:15
B. Sin In Our Lives Keeps Our Prayers From Being Answered - Is. 59:2; Ps. 66:18; Prov. 28:9; 1 Pet. 3:7; Heb. 11:6
C. The Progression of Sin: Sin Begins with Desire; Desire Leads to Deception; Deception Leads to Disobedience; then Disobedience Leads to Death - James 1:14-15; 1 Cor. 10:13
D. We Cannot Escape the Consequences of Sin Without God – Num. 32:23; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:1-2; Heb. 9:22,28; 1 Cor. 15:57 & 2 Cor.9:14-15
Will we stay firmly grounded in these truths and the rest of the truths of God’s Word which never change?
11.20.2022 - "Don't Quit!"
Don’t Quit
“What’s the use?” “I give up!” “Why bother?” “I’m done” … We all lose heart at times as we face life’s struggles. We get tired, frustrated, depressed, disillusioned, and feel like quitting. God, through the apostle Paul, reminds us to “Hang in There and Not Quit” by remembering the following….
I. Be Responsible - Focus on Duty (4:1)
U “Character is the ability to stay with a resolution long after the Mood in which the resolution was made has left!”
U “When you Feel like it and when you don’t” – Eccl. 12:13; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:32; Ps. 66:2; 2 Tim. 4:2
U Matt. 26:39 "If it is Possible may this cup be taken from me."
U One of the best lessons you can teach your child is a sense of Responsibility! ~ Insist, Make, & Encourage them.
II. Be Real - Focus on Authenticity (4:2,7)
U ”There is nothing more exhausting than being Insincere. Even worse than being “Worn Out” is being “Found Out.”
U 2 reasons people distort the Word of God: Profit & Pride
U Truth is seldom Vague. John 14:6
U It should be obvious to others that we are not Hiding anything, that we are Dependable, and Real. Rev. 22:19
U We are like clay jars with Cracks & Imperfections. But it’s not the vessel, it’s the Content that is important.
III. Be Ready - Focus on Truth (4:4)
U 1 Pet. 5:8 – We must not quit but be Ready.
U The enemy is ruthless. He seeks to defeat us in 2 ways:
- Distort the truth and 2) Blinds the minds of unbelievers
U Prov. 16:25 “There is a way that Seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to Destruction.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
11.13.2022 - "On Fire For God!"
On Fire For God
Daniel 3:12-27
These 3 Jewish boys(Hananiah, Mishael, & Azariah) didn’t bend, bow, or burn. Let’s draw from their “on fire” experiences some lessons we might learn…
I. They Were Different During a Crisis (3:12)
- Dan. 1:8,12,15; Rom. 12:2; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Phil. 2:14-16; Matt. 5:13-16; 7:13-14
II. They Were Daring In Spite of the Cost (3:13-16)
- Acts 4:18-20,29; 1 Thess. 2:2; 2 Tim. 1:7; Rom. 12:1
- “When God permits his children to go through the furnace, He keeps his eye on the clock and His hand on the thermostat.”
III. They Were Dedicated With Supreme Confidence (3:17-24)
- Job 13:15; Duet. 31:6; 1 Thess. 5:16-18
IV. They Were Delivered by Our Companion (3:25-27)
- Is. 43:2; 2 Pet 2:9; Ps. 121:8; 91:14-15
God blessed these young men and will bless us if we remain committed to Him and are willing to be “on fire” for Him!
11.6.2022 - Seeing Clearly Again
Isaiah 6:1-8
Seeing clearly is important in the physical realm but not nearly as important as in the spiritual realm. The way we view God, Ourselves, and Others in this world makes an eternal difference!
I. We Must See God As He Is (vv. 1-4)
A. Politicians are unable to solve root problems - Dan. 2:21; 4:17; Rom. 8:28; 13:1–8; 1 Pet. 2:13–15; 2 Chron. 32:7-8; Ps. 118:8-9; Is. 2:22
B. Our only hope must be in the Lord - Psalm 95:6; 2:11; 99:1; Rom. 11:33; Rev. 15:4; 4:8; 1 Sam. 2:2
C. Current Views of Sin Don’t Change Who God Is – Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8; Ps. 55:19; Num. 23:19
II. We Must See Ourselves As We Are (vv. 5-7)
A. The nearer we get to God the more we become aware of our sin. – Is. 6:5; Job 42:6; Luke 5:8
B. How long has it been since we measured ourself by God's perfect standard -not others? Have we been excusing our sins?
C. We need to confess our sins and be made clean - Is. 6:7; 1 John 1:8-9; John 8:11; Prov. 28:13
III. We Must See the World as God Sees It (v. 8)
A. A lost and dying world is the reason for God's call – Eph. 2:1,5; John 3:16; Rom. 3:23; 6:23; Luke 19:10
B. Ask God to enable us to see lost people as He sees them!
C. Ask for the Spirit’s Power to enable us to Speak for God – Zech. 4:6; Phil. 2:15; 1 John 1:1-3; Matt. 5:16; 2 Tim. 1:7; Gal. 5:22-23
Dwight Moody said, "I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And that which I can do, by the grace of God, I will do!" Will you “See Clearly” to speak for God?
10.30.2022 - Something worse Than Dying and Going to Hell
SOMETHING WORSE THAN DYING AND GOING TO HELL
Deuteronomy 13:1-18 Matthew 23:15
Hell is such a horrible place; how could there be anything worse than going there? The one thing worse than dying and going to hell is: FOR YOU TO CAUSE SOMEONE ELSE TO BE IN HELL WITH YOU. We will discuss three groups of people that deceive others and lead others to hell. We must be aware of them and their deception so that we will not be led astray and we ourselves won’t be a deceiver…
I. FALSE PROPHETS (Deut. 13:1-5)
A. In the O.T. – Jer.14:13-16; 20:6; 28; Nehemiah 6:14
B. In the N.T. - Acts 8:9-11; 13:6-11; Matthew 16:6-12
C. Today. - Matthew 24:11; 15:13; 7:21-23; Galatians 1:8-9
III. FAMILY (Deut. 13:6-11)
A. Bible Families - Delilah deceived Samson, Eve deceived Adam,
Job's wife - Judges 14; Gen. 3:6; Job 2:9
B. The gospel may divide family – Matt. 10:24-37, 18:6; 2 Cor. 6:14
III. FRIENDS (Deut. 13:12-18)
A. Bible examples of those who have influenced their neighbors and
friends to worship false gods - SODOM and GOMORRAH, Job's
friends tried to deceive Job – Gen 19; Job 32:3
B. Today, we as friends to others, must make sure we are not leading
others astray by our example or by our words.
We must always be alert and ready to face false teaching in whatever form it comes in. We need to also be ever so careful and mindful of our influence so that we might not be one that causes someone else to go to hell.
10.23.2022 - God's Wrath and Hell Are Real
God’s Wrath And Hell Are Real
When Jesus’ disciples heard one of Christ’s teachings about discipleship, they said, “this is a hard saying” (Jn 6:60). Hell can be a difficult teaching to grasp. But, despite the emotional difficulty of the doctrine of hell, the Bible records more words Jesus spoke about hell than he did about heaven. Hell is the just punishment for sin and a reality the Bible clearly teaches and we should too.
I. God’s Wrath Is Real
- Love: one side of God’s nature 1 Jn. 4:8; Holiness & wrath: Heb. 12:29.
- Jack Cottrell - “God wants to save sinners & done everything divinely possible to do so; but when free-will creatures rebel against His holiness & reject His love, His righteousness requires His wrath to be poured out upon them.”
- Heb. 10:30-31; Rom. 2:5-8; Deut. 1:26-46; 4:23-25; Luke 16:19–31; John 3:36; Rom. 5:6–11; 2:5-6
II. Hell is Real
A. Hell is Unquenchable Fire - Isaiah 66:24; Mark 9:43,48;
Matt. 5:22; 13:42,50; 18:8-9; 25:41; Rev 14:10
B. Hell Is Blackest Darkness - 2 Pet. 2:17; Jude 1:13; Job 10:21-22; 17:13; 15:23; Nah.1:8; Matt 8:12; 22:13; 25:30; Rev. 16:10
C. Hell is Unescapable Suffering & Torment – Weeping & Gnashing of Teeth - Matt. 8:12; 13:41-43,50; 22:13; 24:51; 25:30; Luke 13:28
D. Hell is Separation from God - 2 Thess. 1:9; Matt. 25:41,46
E. Hell is Eternal – Dan. 12:2; Matt. 18:8; 25:41,46; 2 Thess. 1:9; Heb. 6:2; Jude 13; Rev. 14:11; 20:10
F. Hell is Prepared For the Devil & His Angels - Matthew 25:41
G. Hell is the Destination of Unbelievers – Matt. 25:41,46; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; Romans 3:10; 5:12; John 3:3,18
III. Why Some Deny The Reality of Hell
A. Not Politically Correct In Today’s Society. B. Fear. C. Diminishing Our Own Sin. D. A Misunderstanding of God’s love. E. False Teaching and Incomplete Teaching - Universalism, Annihilationism, Love only
God gave us the freedom to choose how we respond to Him. To give us no option but obedience would be a violation of our free will. Love is only love when it is voluntary. We cannot love God unless we have the option of not loving Him. However, there are consequences for either choice. Let’s choose love and obedience of God (Heaven) not rejection & rebellion of God (Hell).
10.16.2022 - Won't You Go to Heaven With Me?"
Won’t You Go To Heaven With Me?
Acts 1:8; Matt. 18:19-20
We certainly have the best news in the world to share – Jesus has saved us and Heaven awaits us! No wonder Jesus left us with a mission that has eternal consequences – will you accept this mission?
I. Our Mission
A. God’s PLAN_: John 17:18; 20:21; Acts 20:24; Matt. 28:19-20 The Great Commission, is not the Great SUGGESTION_. God holds you responsible for the unbelievers who live around you. Ezek. 3:17-19. You are the only Christian some people will ever know.
B. To use ORDINARY_ People: Every believer has the privilege & responsibility of telling others what God is doing in his life. Acts 1:6-8. God used imperfect people: Peter, Paul, Rahab, David, James & John
C. To Share An EXTRAORDINARY__ Message: A message that will again reunite God and man through Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. 5:18-20; Acts 4:12; John 14:6; 1 Cor. 15:2-5; Luke 8:38; 2 Peter 3:9
II. Distractions To Our Mission
Satan would rather have you do anything besides sharing your faith.
A. Some think that People should REAP__ what they Sow. Lk. 9:62; Jonah 4:1-2. How about if we got what we deserve?
B. Some say, “Our church is about the RIGHT_ size.” “The church that doesn’t want to grow is saying to the world, “You can go to hell!’”
C. Some think we should have nothing to do with SINNERS_. What kind of people did Jesus associate with? (Lk 5:27-32; 7:34 & 15:1-2)
D. Some are just to BUSY__ with the things of life.
E. Some have a problem with other RACES_ & languages Gal. 2:11-21.
F. Some site FEAR_ as an excuse - Fear of rejection, we don’t know enough, not GOOD_ enough, don’t know what to say… 1 John 4:18; 1 Cor. 5:14; Joh 4:29; Luke 5:17-26 Bring your friends to Christ!
III. Consequences of Our Mission
A. Eternal RESULTS_. The eternal salvation of a single soul is more important than anything else you will ever achieve in life. There is an URGENCY_ to this mission. John 9:4; 2 Pet. 3:10; Matt. 6:20
B. HASTENING_ Jesus Return. 2 Pet. 3:12; Matt. 24:14
C. MEANINGFUL_ Life. If you fail to fulfill your God-given mission on earth, you will have WASTED_ the life God gave you. Acts 20:24
Will anyone in heaven be able to say to you, “I want to thank you. I’m here because you cared enough to share the Good News with me”? Start looking around at work, home, school and pray, “God, who have you put in my life for me to tell about Jesus.”
10.9.2022 - Why Our Hope Is Sure!
Why Our Hope Is Sure
Believing with all that we have that Heaven and its glories await us as followers of Christ is so very important. We can know that we have eternal life in Heaven after we die…
I. Because Our Hope Is Not In…
A. Good Deeds. Eph. 2:8-10; Rom. 3:23, 6:23; 5:8
B. Spiritual Heritage. Matt. 3:5-8
C. Feelings. Rom. 5:10; Eph. 1:7
II. Because Our God Is Trustworthy
“It is impossible for God to lie…” Heb. 6:18. 1 Tim.4:10; Heb. 11:1
A. His Past Promises. Frogs – Ex. 8; Temple, Solomon - 2 Sam. 7:1–17; 1 Kings 5–8; Exile – Jer. 25; Virgin birth - Is. 7:14; Born in Bethlehem - Micah 5:2; Jerusalem on a donkey -Zec.9:9 ; Jesus Death - Is. 53:5,7 Temple destroyed – Matt. 24:2.
B. His Character Displayed.
1. God Is Faithful - Heb. 10:23; Ps. 26:3; 119:90; Lam. 3:22-23; Rom. 3:3-4
2. God Is Love – 1 John 4:8-10
3. God is Unchanging – Num. 23:19; 1 Sam. 15:29; Heb. 13:8; Jm 1:17.
C. His Future Promises Dependable.
We trust Him daily as we face temptation and trials with this promise - 1 Cor. 10:13; We find daily peace by following His command - Phil. 4:6-7; We can know that when we are alone that we really aren’t: Heb. 13:5; We can rest assured God has good plans for us- Jer. 29:11; We can trust God even when we don’t understand - Rom. 8:28
III. Because Our Hope Is In Jesus
- Jesus - John 5:24; Mark 16:16; John 6:47-48, 54; 10:28; 11:25-26; Luke 23:43; John 3:16; 14:1-3.
- Paul - Rom. 8:1,37; 1 Cor. 15:57; Phil. 1:23; 1 Thess. 4:17-18
- John - 1 John 5:4; Rev. 2:10; 1 John 5:11-13
None of us know when Jesus may come again or when we may die. Is your hope sure? Are you washed in the blood of Jesus? Have you been baptized into Christ? If not – don’t wait any longer!!!
10.2.2022 - What IS In Heaven!
What Is In Heaven
What will be in Heaven? Much is not known, but we have significant information in the Bible to create excitement for us concerning our future home!
I. Worship of God Almighty
Rev. 4:9-11; 5:11-13; 7:7-10; 14:7; 15:2-4; 19:1-2
II. Winged Angels
Isa. 6:3; Job 38:7; Rev. 4:8; 5:11-12
III. Worthwhile Work & Service
Rev.22:3; 14:13; 22:9; Gen. 2:15; 3:17–19; Jn. 5:17; 1 Jn. 3:2; Col. 3:23
IV. Wow of the Wonders of Heaven
Rev. 21:18-19, 21-22; 4:6; 15:2;
V. Wrapped In White Garments
“Dressed in His righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne.”
Rev. 19:7-8,13-14; Is. 64:6; Gal. 3:27; Rom. 13:14; 2 Cor. 12:2; Rom. 8:1; Col. 3:3; Rev. 3:4-5; 4:4; 7:14; Gal. 3:13
VI. Wonderful Reunions & Saints From Everywhere
1 Cor. 13:12; Rev. 7:9; 5:9; 1 Sam. 28:8-17; 2 Sam. 12:23; Luke 16:19-31, Matt. 17:3-4; 1 Jn. 3:2; 1 Cor. 15: 4-7, 47, 49, 53; Jn. 20:16, 20; 21:12
The words by Mosie Lister to the song Feeling Mighty Fine come to mind: “There's a light that always shines… Down inside this heart of mine… I've got heaven on my mind… And I'm feeling mighty fine.”
9.25.2022 - What Is NOT In Heaven!
What Is Not In Heaven
I want us to focus on how Heaven will be different from what we experience here by looking at what will NOT be in Heaven. These assurances from Scripture of what will not be Heaven should bring us great joy & help anticipate our heavenly home even more than we already do.
I. No More Sorrow, Crying, Tears, or Mourning
This old grief-stricken way of life – the only one we know right now – will cease to exist! Rev. 21:4-5; James 4:9; Rev. 7:17
There will be no heartbreaks in Heaven!
II. No More Sickness or Pain
We will NEVER EVER again experience hurt of ANY KIND! Rev. 21:4
III. No More Hunger or Thirst
No more droughts, no more dehydration, no more malnutrition, no more swollen bellies - Rev. 7:16-17; “No longer will there be any curse.” Rev. 22:3
IV. No More Night
John 3:19-20; 1:5; Rev. 21:23,25; 22:5; 2 Pet. 3:13 Heaven will be a place of continual light. - Nothing more to ever fear!!!
V. No More Sin, Defilement, or Temptation of Any Kind
What it will be like to have a place NOT affected by sin? Rev. 21:27
The source of sin & evil will forever be cast down - Rev. 20:10; Matt. 25:41
VI. No More Separation – No More Death 0r Sad Goodbyes
1 Cor.15:26, 51-57 - We have victory over death because Jesus conquered death & through God’s grace we get to live forever because Jesus died for us and rose again! - Jn 11:25-26; Rev. 21:4; Lk 20:36
We’ve just started looking at what is NOT in Heaven and this is so exciting and comforting and encouraging. I can hardly wait to talk about what IS in Heaven next week!
9.18.2022 - What Heaven Is!
What Heaven Is!
Most of us have sought assurance that this life is not all there is. We seek comfort in the thought of seeing our loved ones again who have died before us. We seek hope & meaning that our lives will continue on after death. Heaven is a real place described in the Bible…
I. There Are 3 Definitive Heavens
A. Atmospheric Heaven. – Sky - Gen. 1:6-8
B. Starry Heaven. – Outer Space - Gen. 1:14-18
C. Heaven of Heavens. – This is where God lives and where we, His saints, will live for Eternity. 1 Pet. 3:22-23; John 14:2-3
II. Heaven Is God’s Dwelling Place
- “An Unknow Region With A Well Known Inhabitant!”
- “To be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Cor. 5:8) “‘Our Father in heaven” (Matt. 6:9) “God’s dwelling place is now among the people” (Rev. 21:2-3); Rev. 21:11; 22:5
- John Piper: “Could you be satisfied with Heaven, if Christ was not there?” Are we truly “fixing our eyes on Jesus” (Heb. 12:2)
III. The Bible Describes The Place Called Heaven
A. A Great Feast - Matt. 8:11; Rev. 19:9, 17
B. An Eternal Rest - Heb. 4:9-10; Rev. 14:13; 1 Cor 2:9
Heaven is more than we comprehend. It’s more than the best we’ve ever experienced. It’s more than the best we’ve ever imagined.
IV. Our Destination: Heaven Is Our Future Home
- This isn’t our forever home and these bodies aren’t our forever bodies. “They are not of the world any more than I am of the world.” (John 17:14) “Aliens and strangers in the world.” (1 Peter 2:11). “Our citizenship is in Heaven.” (Phil. 3:20; 2 Cor. 5:1-5)
- “Home is Where the Heart is” – Where is our heart? Matt. 6:20-21; Col. 3:1-2
We don’t belong here forever! Our Eternal Home Is Heaven – that’s where we belong! Jesus promised to prepare a place for true Christians in heaven (John 14:2). Will we find encouragement & share the news concerning the future home of Christians? Let’s prepare!
9.11.2022 - God Wants You!
God Wants You! - Bo Samson, Preaching
Book of Jonah
1. We serve the God of Second Chances.
2. We Serve a Compassionate God.
3. God Sees Right Through Our Flaws.
9.4.2022 - Lessons Learned From Ants
Lessons Learned From Ants - Glenn Brickhouse, Preaching
Proverbs 6:6-11
One usually thinks of ants as a nuisance. But some insect-eating ants are beneficial. In the book of Proverbs ants are used to teach some positive lessons. Let’s see if we can learn today from them.
I. The Ant Provides an In__________ of the L________ Man
U God is at work today sustaining his creation, restraining evil, and saving
man. Proverbs 6; Genesis 2:2; John 5:17
U God created man to share in His work. Genesis 2:15; Proverbs 26:16;
10:4,5; Matthew 25:26; 2 Thess. 3:10
Proverbs suggests Four characteristics of a lazy man. Each trait ought to be avoided because of the harmful consequences associated with it.
- He Can’t Get S__________ in the M_______________
- He Seldom F_______________ Anything
- He Is Full of E_____________ Proverbs 22:13
- D. He Appears to Get B_______ B_____________
II. The Ant Provides an In_________ for the L_________ Man
God designed the ant with an instinct for work: Proverbs 6:6-8
Man’s curse was not work, but that work would be P_______ and
D________. Genesis 2:15; 3:17-19
- P_________ With God
P_________ for his world. Exodus 35:30-36
You go to work for the very same reason you go to church: to
W________ and S________ Christ. Colossians 3:23-24
- Character D________ James 1:2-4
P________ - it’s your character.
God develops character through O___________ and R__________.
- S________ E__________ Ecclesiastes 3:13; Proverbs 22:29.
only by an honest day’s work.
We are happiest when we are accomplishing something W________.
The Bible informs is there will be responsibility, service & work in Heaven, not laziness. (Rev. 22:3) Remember: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for me…It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Col. 3:23,24)
8.28.2022 - Oh Be Careful, Little Hands
“Oh Be Careful, Little Hands” - Ben Nichols, Preaching
(Various Verses)
Lazy Hands vs. Diligent Hands
8.21.2022 - “One at a Time”
Mark 5:1-20 - Luke Swain, Preaching
8.14.2022 - Finding Peace for the Future
Finding Peace for the Future
2 Corinthians 2:12-17
A world of unrest, pandemic, inflation, & war – how do we find peace in these conditions? Each of us could list a dozen subjects that make it difficult for us to keep calm: a malignant tumor, a bitter divorce, aging parents, a guilty conscience, rebellious teenagers, car trouble, joblessness, and misunderstandings. If there ever was a time when we need the peace of God that passes understanding, it is now. How do we find it? Paul shares how:
I. A Grateful Heart (2:12-14)
* Phil. 4:6-7 – “…with Thanksgiving”
* Numbers 11:1 Complaining & Criticism is a mark of Spiritual Immaturity.
* Some people miss the entire concert of life and focus in on the blowing of a nose.” – Bob Russell
* Psalm 77:3; Phil. 2:14
* Complaining is not harmless - it is spoiling your Peace of mind. It is making people around you miserable. Start Praising!
II. A Sense of Significance (2:14)
* We’re part of that Victory parade. Rom. 8:37
* What aroma are you to others - Life or Death?
* You may never know how far your influence is spreading.
* Your influence may determine someone's destiny. 2 Tim. 1:5
III. Pure Motives (2:17)
* ”Peddle” – mixing of truth with Human Philosophy
* The word “peace” is used about 200 times in the Bible.
* If there is no righteousness in your motives, there is no peace in your mind.
IV. A Sure Destiny (2:14-16)
* Rev. 17:14 – Christ has won the Victory already.
* 1 John 5:13 – We can know we have eternal life.
* 1 Tim. 6:17-19 – trust in what?
Christians experience pressure and anxiety like everybody else, but our faith in Christ can enable us to handle that stress and live lives that are identified as “peaceful beyond understanding”. Will you put your hope and trust in the One who can give peace like no other?
8.7.2022 - Repentance Is A Lifestyle
Repentance Is A Lifestyle
Psalm 51
King David, “a man after God’s own heart,” provides for us an example of what true repentance looks like. To understand fully how repentance is more than a single act, but a lifestyle, let’s break it down today as we look at what David said about…
I. God
A. Merciful & Forgiving (v.1) - 1 John 4:8; Ps. 103:3; 2 Pet. 3:9; Ps. 51:16 & 17
B. Powerful & All Sufficient (v.1-2) - Mark 2:7; 1 Pet. 1:18-19
C. Truthful (v.4) - Heb. 6:18; John 1:1, 14:6; 8:44; Gen. 3:13
II. Sin
A. Sin Is Rebellion & Defiance (v.1)
B. Sin Is Missing the Mark (v.2)
C. Sin Torments Our Mind (v.3)
D. Sin is Against God Himself (v.4) - 1 Jn 3:4; Mark 35:45; Acts 9:4
E. Sin is Personal_ (v.1-3) – James 1:13-15
III. Man
A. Recognition of Our Sin - Jer. 2:35; 2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 51:4; 2 Cor. 13:5; James 1:25
B. Remorse over Our Sin – 2 Cor 7:10; Ps. 51:1-2,7,8,17; Acts 2:37
C. Resolve to Change - Ps. 51:10; Acts 2:38; Luke 15:17
D. Reform & Renewal Of Life - Matt. 3:8; New Heart – Ps. 51:10; Continued Fellowship – Ps. 51:11; Willingness to Praise & Sing – Ps. 51:14-15; Desire to Teach Others - Ps. 51:13
E. Restitution If Needed – Luke 19:8
F. Rejoicing In God – Ps. 51:12
Repentance is required for God’s forgiveness. But the ancient Augustine was right, “God has promised forgiveness to your repentance, but He has not promised tomorrow to your procrastination.” Make things right with God today!
7.31.2022 - Bringing Up Children In The Lord!
Bringing Up Children In The Lord!
It has been increasingly difficult to raise a family in recent years. The “family” is being redefined, battered on every front, and our society shows it. Moms and Dads everywhere are searching for answers on how to raise their kids in an ever changing and often harmful environment. Let’s search together for some sound Biblical Parenting Principles that will help us raise Godly Children in a Godless Society.
- Cut the Comparisons and F_____________
- The harmful Results of “Conditional Love” Gen. 37:3-4; 25:28
- We are to affirm Godgiven individuality. God makes no J____.
- Discipline Without D___________
- “Children do not create problems, they reveal them!”
- We must discipline in Love not in A____________.
- “Unconditional Love” Disciplines, but is Fair and C__________.
- Eph. 6:4; Prov. 23:13-14; 29:17 – wrong has consequences!
- E__________________ Not Discourage
- Col. 3:21; Eph. 6:4; 2 Tim. 3:13-17; 1 Th. 5:11
- Do we inspire our children towards the things of God?
- Learn to: Listen, Loosen Up, and L____________
- Be real, transparent, authentic – share life with them.
- James 1:19; Prov. 17:22 Are you listening & joyful?
- Give the Most Important Gift: T________
- “Take T_______ and Make T______ to be with them”
- Ps. 78:5-7; Matt. 19:14 What will your children remember?
- Teach Respect and R_________________
- Teach: “Thinking of Others instead of O___________”
- 1 Tim. 3:4; 2 Kings 5:23-24 Work & Chores never hurt.
- Make Clear the Right P______________
- It’s not about “Beauty, Brains, Brawn, & B__________”
- 1 Sam. 16:7; Duet. 4:9; 11:18-21; Prov. 1:7-9; Matt. 6:33
- M___________ Jesus for Them
- 1 Thess. 2:10-12; 1 Cor. 11:1; 2 Kings 14:3; Luke 2:52
7.24.2022 - "Mine, Mine, Mine!"
Mine! Mine! Mine!
“Mine, mine, mine” - we have all heard these words as 2 children fuss over a toy – particularly at Christmas when new toys come out. But I submit to you that these words are indicative of an ungodly attitude that most of us still battle.
I. The Bible Is Clear: God Owns Everything Including Us
A. God is Owner of All Creation – Ps. 50:10-12; Heb. 2:10; Deut. 10:14; Gen. 14:19, 22; Job 41:11; 1 Cor. 10:26
B. God is Owner Because He Created It - Gen. 1:1: John 1:1-3
C. We and All that we Have are Part of Creation That He Owns – Ps. 24:1-2; Rom. 1:6; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; Acts 20:28
- Gen. 1:28 God delegated authority to us (Subdue & “Dominion) to carry out His intents & purposes for His creation. But there is no record anywhere of God’s ownership being transferred.
II. The Bible Is Clear: We Are Managers Of God’s Possessions
A. Responsibilities – Time; Talent; Treasure (Our Body; Our Money; Our Time) Deut. 8:17-18; Col. 3:17; Acts 20:35; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 6:6-10; Matt. 6:19-21, 33-34; Mark 8:36; 1 Pet. 4:10-11
B. Accountability - Luke 12:15,20; Matt. 25:14-30; Rom. 14:12; 1 Cor. 4:1-2
C. Rewards - Matt. 25:21; Mark 9:41; 1 Cor. 3:12-15; 15:58; 2 Cor. 9:6-7; Col. 3:23-24; 2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 2:10
What you are is God’s gift to you – What you make of yourself is your gift to God. Faithful stewardship means that we fully acknowledge we are not our own but belong to Christ, the Lord, who gave Himself for us. “Let us give up our work, our plans, ourselves, our lives, our loved ones, our influence, our all – right into God’s hand; then when we have given all to Him, there will be nothing left for us to be troubled about!” – Missionary J Hudson Taylor
7.17.2022 - Intern Seth Ambrose Preaching
7.10.2022 - Headed Home - The Prodigal Son
Headed Home – The Prodigal Son
Luke 15:11-24
It is tough growing up as a child and tough being a parent. Let’s learn some life lessons today from the son and father in the story of the prodigal son…
A. Learn The Value of Unconditional Love
- God Showed It – We are to Display It In Our
Relationships!
- John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Eph. 5:25-27; Matt. 22:37-39;
1 Jn. 4:20-21; Luke 6:27-36
B. There Are No Lone Rangers
- We Need Each Other!
- Jn. 13:34-35; Rom. 12:10-11, 16; 14:13; 15:7; 1 Cor. 1:10;
Gal. 5:13; Eph. 4:2, 32; 5:21; Col. 3:13; 1 Thess. 5:11;
Heb. 10:24; James 5:16; 1 Pet. 3:8-9; 4:9
C. Failure Can Be A Great Teacher
- We Can Often Learn More From Our Mistakes Than From
Our Successes!
- Matt. 14:31; 16:15-18; 26:69-75; Acts 2
D. It Is Never Too Late To Go Home
- God’s Grace & Forgiveness Are Awesome!
- Acts 5:11; Rom. 8:38-39; Is. 1:18; Luke 6:36; Heb. 8:12;
2 Pet. 3:9
Let’s learn these life lessons ourselves, teach & display them to others, and allow God to work in us to make us into the children He wants us to be.
7.3.2022 - "Celebrate Jesus!"
Celebrate Jesus
Ephesians 1:3-14
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.” (Eph. 1:3 NLT) We are too blessed to be stressed! As we celebrate our freedom as a Country this weekend let’s not forget to Celebrate Jesus & the blessings of our life in Christ! We are…
1. Chosen – Eph. 1:4
Will we answer the call and decide to follow Jesus? God picked you!
Matt. 22:14; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 17:14
2. Adopted – Eph. 1:5-6
If we are in Christ, we are in God’s family. There are no stepsons or stepdaughters. Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:4-5
3. Forgiven – Eph. 1:7-8
Jesus laid down His life for us to take away our sins. Jesus redeemed us, he purchased our freedom. Col. 1:13-14; Heb. 10:10, 14, 17-19
4. Secure – Eph. 1:9-11
God is in control & has a plan. It has not failed & will not fail, regardless of how bleak things may look in the world. Rom. 8:28; Jer. 29:11
5. Included - Eph. 1:12
God’s love is available to Jews, Gentiles, male, female, young, old, the elite and the outcasts.
Gal. 3:28; Rom. 1:16; 3:22-23; 1 Cor. 12:13; Col. 3:11
6. Sealed – Eph. 1:13
Everyone who is in Christ has the Holy Spirit living in them. His presence shows that we belong to God and He ensures our protection from the enemy of our soul. Gal. 4:6; Eph. 4:30; Acts; 2:38
7. Heirs - Eph. 1:14
We have the bulk of our inheritance to look forward to – all to the praise of God’s glory. Gal. 3:29, 4:7; Titus 3:7; 1 Pet. 1:3-5
Let us celebrate Jesus as we are blessed with every spiritual blessing!
6.26.2022 - Oh Be Careful Little Feet... - Ben Nichols Preaching
6.19.2022 - Father's Day Sunday
Youth preaching: Jackson Woodley, Carson Roughton, Brandon Berry - Check out the service on YouTube.
6.12.2022 - Living With WOW!
Dennis Crehan - guest preacher
Let’s Look At Four places In Scripture God Said Wow!
- Wow of Creation. Gen 1:27-31
- Wow of Confident faith. Mt 8:10-13
- Wow of Conversion. Lk 15:4-7
- Wow of Generosity. Mk 12:41-44
If You live without wow…
You lose Passion.
You lose Purpose.
You lose significance.
Let’s Wow God At Philippi!
6.5.2022 - Decisions, Decisions, Decision
Graduation marks the end of a chapter and the beginning of another. It is often a time of big decisions. In reality, we all make big decisions frequently. But, do we make them wisely and with God’s blessing?
I. What Method Do We Use To Decide?
II. Who Do We Listen To?
A. Your F_____________? - Matt. 27:11-26
B. Your F_____________? – Matt. 26:36-46
III. How Can God Help Us?
A. C_____________ with Christ – James 1:5; Eph. 3:20
B. C_____________ of Christ – Psalm 1:1-2; 119:105
C. C_________ of Other C____________ – Prov. 19:20; 27:6
D. Convincing C______________ – Prov. 3:5-6; 1 Cor. 16:8-9
E. Consecrated C________ – Jn. 16:13; Rom. 8:26; Eph. 3:16
F. Christ’s C_____________ – Eph. 3:10; 5:29-30; Heb. 10:25
G. C________________ with Christ – Col. 2:6-10; 2 Pet. 1:3;
Phil 4:19
As Christians, we are not alone when we face tough decisions in life. The pressures of the world (Rom. 12:2) try to squeeze us - making it more difficult to make godly decisions. But we have a more powerful source of strength in Christ that can bring about the renewing of our mind and help in making truly wise godly decisions that will bless us, our family & friends, and our Lord Jesus.
5.29.2022 - LIVE TO LEAD AND FOLLOW
1 Peter 5
God didn’t leave something as important as the church without basic structure. Let’s look at both sides of the coin concerning leadership and followership. Here are God’s instructions in how to be Godly leaders and followers…
I. The Christian Leader
A. Responsibilities
1. F_________ the sheep. Ps. 23:1-2; Matt. 4:4
2. P_________ the sheep. Acts 20:28-31a
3. G_________ the sheep. 1 Pet. 5:3; John 10:27
B. Motivations
1. Not because you M_____, but because you are W_______.
1 Pet. 5:2; 2 Cor. 5:14-15
2. Not G_______ for money, but eager to S_______. 1 Pet. 5:2
3. Not L_________ it over those entrusted to you, but being an
E__________. 1Pet. 5:3
4. Not for the A__________ of men, but the R_______ of God.
1 Pet. 5:4
II. The Christian Follower
A. Humbly S_____________. 1 Pet. 5:5-6
B. Divinely S_____________. 1 Pet. 5:7; Num. 13:33
C. Entirely I______________. 1 Pet. 5:8-9
D. Eternally M____________. 1 Pet. 5:10-11
“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.” Heb. 13:17
5.22.2022 - Living Through Suffering
1 Peter 4:12-19
“Why do good people suffer and wicked people prosper?” Where is the justice of God? Life just isn’t fair. God doesn’t seem to bless those who serve Him, and He doesn’t seem to punish those who are defiant toward Him. Simon Peter wrote about the reason for suffering that gives us some helpful insights into the mind of God about human anguish. It teaches that….
I. Some Suffering is Predictable—Anticipate It. (v.12)
6 Different Reasons:
A. Christian Testimony: 1 Peter 4:14; John 15:8
B. Our Own Sinful Behavior: 1 Peter 4:15; Num. 32:23
C. A Satanic Attack: 2 Cor. 12:7
D. A Fallen World: Matt. 5:45; Luke 13:4-5; John 16:33
E. God’s Discipline: Hebrews 12:6, 10-11
F. God’s Pruning: John 15:2
II. All Suffering is Purposeful— Rejoice In It. (v.13-16)
A. When We Hurt We Can Appreciate More Deeply What Jesus
Endured - Physical Pain, Emotional Stress, Alienated Relationships.
1 Pet. 4:13; Phil. 1:29
B. When We Hurt We Have the Opportunity to Mature - we trust
God more, pray more, read Scripture more, deepen more than any
other period of our lives. 1 Pet. 4:14; James 1:2-4
C. When We Hurt Our Opportunity to Witness is Improved - The
spotlight is on us! 1 Peter 4:16
III. Patient Suffering is Praiseworthy - Trust God’s Justice. (v.17-19)
A. We Will Be Blessed - James 5:11; Rev. 2:10
B. The Wicked Will Be Dealt With
C. We Should Commit Ourselves To God
Life is hard, but God is good. He is going to make all things new and right one day. Don’t give up hope. God has not forgotten us!
5-15-2022 - Reason to Live
1 Peter 2:4-12
What is your primary purpose in life? Do you have a significant reason to get out of bed every morning or is your life just, “Whatever”? The Apostle Peter reminds us of our ultimate reasons for living…
I. We Are God’s Ministers (v.4-8)
We are Living Stones with a significant ministry in God’s Church.
A. Jesus is a Living Stone - raised from the dead.
B. Jesus is a Precious Stone - more valuable than gold or silver
C. Jesus is a Stumbling Stone – some refuse to obey - Mark 10:21-22
D. Jesus is the Cornerstone – the foundation - Acts 2:47
-We will never be put to shame if we trust in Jesus!
-We are a part of an institution with eternal significance - Matthew 16:18
-Our contributions help strengthen others. Our failures threaten the well-being of others. Every Christian is called to perform some function in the church.
II. We Are God’s Priests (v.5,9)
We are holy priests with a privileged opportunity to glorify God.
1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 10:19; John 4:23; 1 Chron. 16:29; 1 Cor. 16:2; Rom. 12:1; Eph. 5:19
- We don’t have to pray to God through a saint or a relative of Jesus – we have direct access to the Creator of the Universe through Jesus!
- Some practical guidelines of how we can make our worship more pleasing to God:
III. We Are God’s Witnesses (v.9-12)
We are God’s people with a crucial responsibility to witness to the truth. A. Declare God’s Truth B. Live Distinct Lives
Do you know your destination? Or are you searching for a ticket that will give some direction for your life. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Our purpose is found in Him!
5.8.2022 - Live To Grow
1 Peter 1:13-2:3
Paul addressed the Corinthian Christians like this: “…I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it.” (1 Cor. 3:1-2). Peter encourages us not to be stunted in our development but to move on to maturity in Christ. Let’s look at 3 areas where we need to grow deeper in the Christian life so that we can withstand trouble and experience the abundant life that God wants to give.
I. Mentally (1:13-14)
- Our society places more emphasis on feeling than thinking.
- Eccl. 3:4; Is. 1:18; 2 Chron. 1:10; 1 Kings 18:46; Prov. 16:25; Gen. 39:9; Matt. 4:3-4; Ps. 119:11; 1 Pet. 3:15; Eph. 4:13-15; John 16:33; Col. 1:10
- “So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear.” Message (1:13)
- We fall to temptation because we yield to temporary emotions. As we grow, we should move from being emotionally driven to being Scripturally-driven.
- Read the Bible; Join a D-group & Sunday School Class; Read News from Christian Perspective; Read deeper Books
II. Morally (1:15-21)
- Be Holy – Eph. 5:3 Remove sinful activities & Become like God. - This is a Process that Takes Time.
- 4 Motivations for Holiness: A. Is a desire to resemble the Heavenly Father. (1 Pet. 1:15; Eph. 5:1) B. Is a reverent fear of judgment. (Eph. 1:17). C. A recognition of the futility of unholiness. (1 Pet. 1:18) D. The loving sacrifice of Jesus. (1 Pet. 1:19-21)
III. Socially (1:22-2:3)
- Phil. 2:3; 2 John 1:6; 1 Pet. 4:8; Acts 9:33-34
- Love one another deeply now! There comes a time when life is over and the chance to demonstrate love is gone!
- Peter grew, setting us an example!
Let’s live to grow in the Lord, not having our growth stunted by this world!
5.1.2022 - Live In Hope
1 Peter 1:1-12
It’s been said we can live a month without food, five days without water, five minutes without air. But we can’t live a second without hope. Hope is in short supply these days. Peter writes that we have a daily hope in Christ. Let’s look at five reasons we have to “LIVE IN HOPE” in a world that seems hopeless. We are…
I. Picked By God (v.2)
A. Chosen - Rom. 8:29
B. Sanctified - 2 Tim. 3:13; 1 Cor. 15:25; Rom. 14:11
II. Provided New Birth & A New Inheritance (v.3-4)
-John 3:3-6; 14:1-2; 1 Pet. 1:23; Titus 3:5-7; 2 Cor. 5:17
-Dr. Beauford Bryant - “The baptistery is a tomb and a womb. It’s a
tomb when we die to self and a womb where we are born again into
the kingdom of God.”
III. Protected By God’s Power (v.5)
- Matt. 18:10; Heb. 13:2
- If we understood how much God shielded us – instead of
complaining to God about all the pain we’re experiencing we’d fall
on our knees in gratitude for His protection.
IV. Proved Genuine By Suffering (v:6-9)
- Job, Paul, Joseph -Gen. 50:20; 2 Cor. 4:17; 1 Pet. 1:6-9
- God is temporarily using pain to deepen us.
- Warren Wiersbe - “When you’re in the furnace, God keeps His hand
on the thermostat and His eye on the clock.”
V. Privileged Recipients of God’s Plan (v.10-11)
- Eph. 6:19; Rev. 12:12; Isaiah 53:5; Rom. 8:28
We are blessed beyond measure to live on this side of the cross and to have heard the life-giving hope-filled message of Jesus Christ!!! And if the moment that appeared the most hopeless for Jesus was actually His finest hour, shouldn’t His followers retain hope in times that seem difficult for us knowing that our suffering could be for our glory? (Rom. 8:28)
4.24.2022 - A Plea To Listen – God is Hope
Zephaniah 3:1-7, 18-20
Have you ever pleaded with someone to listen, knowing that if they did not it would prove to be disastrous for them? God does that with Jerusalem through Zephaniah & He does it with us as well when we turn from Him. If we would but listen to God, we would find hope in Him!
I. The Insensitivity to Sin (v.2)
4 Areas That Show Insensitivity to Sin:
A. Would Not Obey – Sin hardens us. Num. 14:22-23 Deut. 4:32–33;
28:45, 62; Eph. 4:18; Matt. 6:24; Col. 1:21
B. Would Not Receive Correction - Obstinately rejects warnings, &
refuses to be reformed. - Je 5:3; Amos 4:6–12; Prov. 12:1;
29:15,17; 19:20
C. Would Not Trust In The Lord – Trusts in other things. Isa 7:3–17;
Ps. 52:7; 1 Tim. 6:17-18; Obad. 1:7; Nahum 1:12; Deut. 1:29-33
D. Would Not Draw Near To God – No True Worship of God.
Deut. 4:7; Matt. 15:8-9; James 4:7-9
II. The Depth of Sin (v.1,3-4)
A. Rebellious - Officials and Rulers
B. Polluted: Prophets – Lam 4:13–14; Neh 7:64; Mic. 3:5; Deut. 18:20
C. Oppressing: Priests – Exod 22:21; Deut 23:16; Deut. 17:8-9
III. The Efforts of God to Save From Sin – (v.5-8,18-20)
A. God’s Character (v.5): 1. Righteous 2. Does No Wrong 3.
Dispenses Justice 4. Never Fails
B. God’s History Lesson (v.6-7) Zep. 1 & 2; Winston Churchill –
“Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”
C. God’s Future Plan (v.8,18-20)
1. Determination (3:8) – Wait on God; 2. Consolation (3:18) – God
comforts sorrows; 3. Vindication (3:19) – God will deal with the
oppressors; 4. Restoration (3:20) – God will bring them in
Are you enjoying a close relationship with God or have you turned a deaf ear to His calling you? Will you choose to listen to God and enjoy His future glorious hope-filled plans for you?
4.17.2022 - Resurrection Sunday - The Greatest Story Ever Told
What do you consider the greatest story ever told? Many stories are great but, certainly the one we celebrate today is and will be forever the greatest story ever told. Let’s see today why that is so:
I. What a Price Paid
“The Deadliest Sin is the Consciousness of NO Sin”
Acts 2:22-23 “…you put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross”
Rom. 3:23 “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God”
1 Pet. 2:24 “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree”
Isa. 53:5 “But He was pierced for our transgressions…”; 1 John 2:2
John 1:29 “…the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”
This High Price Should Remind Us Of Two Things:
1) Sin should not be T_____________ L_______________!
2) God’s L__________ is Awesome!
II. What A Victory Won
“Jesus Resurrection – Totally Awesome!”
Acts 2:24, 32 “But God raised Him from the dead, …it was I___________ for death to keep its hold on Him.” “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact.” Acts 1:3 “After his suffering, He showed Himself to these men and gave convincing proofs that He was alive…”
1 Cor. 15:54 “D__________ has been swallowed up in victory”
III. What A Hope Attained
“Jesus is due to make on more Grand Appearance”
Acts 2:36 “… God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both L_____ and Christ.”
John 14:2-3 “I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be wih me that you also may be where I am.”
1 Thess. 4:16-18 “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, … and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air...
Acts 17:31 “For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed, He has given P______ of this to all men by raising Him from the dead.”
What is your response to this greatest story that has changed mankind;s destiny forever? Will you say, “What must I do?”
4.10.2022 - A Warning To the Proud – God is Just
Obadiah
“Pride is a spiritual cancer that devours families, destroys marriages, divides churches, and corrupts governments.” We need to be ever aware of pride and that God is a just God and deals with pride.
I. EDOM’S PRIDE BLINDED THEM TO THE NEED OF G_____ - Obadiah 1-9
A. Pride D_________: Self-Importance, Self-S__________, &
Independence from God. Prov. 16:18; James 4:6
B. Pride D_________: They were BLINDED by their PRIDE in FIVE areas:
1. They TRUSTED in their S__________- vv. 3-4
2. They TRUSTED in their W_________- vv. 5-6
3. They TRUSTED in their A__________- v. 7
4. They TRUSTED in their W_________- v. 8
5. They TRUSTED in their M_________- v.9
II. EDOM’S PRIDE BLINDED THEM TO THE NEED OF O_________ - Obadiah 10-14
There is a downward spiral that largely mirrors what can happen to our own relationships
A. P__________ ( “stood aloof” v.11) Watched as others attacked
James 4:17 Edmund Burke: “All that is necessary for the triumph
of evil is that good men do nothing.”
B. P__________ (“gloat & rejoice over” v. 12) They were cheerleaders
C. P__________ (“cut down, hand over” vv. 10, 13, 14) Involved in
the actions against Judah.
III. EDOM’S PRIDE BROUGHT THEM TO GOD’S J____________ AND FUTURE P_________- Obadiah 15-21
A. God’s J________ Does Come - “The day of the Lord is near” v.15
- 1 Thess. 5:1-2 “The Day of the Lord” always results in two
ACTIONS: 1). The D_________- of the WICKED. 2). The S__________
of the RIGHTEOUS.” 1 Thess. 5:3, 9; 2 Pet. 3:10-13
B. God’s P_______ Does Come –“the kingdom will be the Lord’s.” v.21
- FUTURE S_____________ FULFILMENT- vv. 17-21
- 2 Pet 3:8; Acts 15:13-18; Rom. 3:21-23
Will we heed God’s warning ourselves & wait for God’s justice for others?
4.3.2022 - A Call After Failure – God is Patient
Jonah 3:1-2
Have you ever let someone down? Have you done it your way – not God’s way and you are concerned about whether God will forgive you or be able to use you in His Kingdom! Jonah’s failure has a timely message for us all…
I. God Can Patiently C________ Our C_________ Failures. (ch.1,2)
- The storm nor the fish were A________!
- Heb. 12:4-11 “The Lord disciplines the one he L_____…” Rev. 3:19 “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” Prov. 3:11 “My son, do not D______ the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke…”. Psalm 94:12 “B_________ is the one you discipline, Lord…”
- Israel, Samson, Jonah– God’s Discipline & G____ Reaches Those Who Fail
- God will M____ you where you are to G___ you where you N_____ to be!
II. God Can Use Us In S_______ of P_______ Failures (3:2)
- This second call of Jonah is evidence of God's W_________ G________
- Ps. 51; Dan. 9:9 “The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have R_________ against him…”. 2 Chron. 30:9 “the Lord your God is gracious and C____________. He will not turn his face from you if you return to him.” 2 Pet. 3:9 “He is P________ with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
- Peter, Moses, Abraham – God uses F_________ because that’s all He has to work with!
- Failure doesn’t have to be you D_______ characteristic. God can use you and your past failures.
III. God Can Use Us In S_______ Of F________ Failures (ch.4)
- Jonah is a preacher that later R______ that God has used him, yet God used him K_________ that he would do this!
- Heb. 8:12.” For I will forgive their wickedness and will R__________ their sins no more.” Eph. 1:7 “In him we have R___________ through his blood… - in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” 1 Jn. 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful & just and will F_________ us our sins”.
- David, Solomon, Disciples – God knew A______ of T_______ that each one would fail Him in the future, yet He used them.
- Even if you fail T___________, God will meet you today and use you!
Aren’t you glad God used Jonah even after he ran and failed God? God can use you today in spite of what you’re doing, have done or will do! Will you humbly be His hands and feet?
Sermon Outlines:
A Prayer for Revival
Habakkuk 3:2
“Revival” means: an Improvement in the condition or strength of something; a Renewed attention to or interest in something – a Restoration to life. We are living in a world where there is a constant negative drag on our spiritual walk – we need a Revival! There was another time and another people that needed a revival and a prophet that challenged them with a prayer…
I. It Is a Prayer Rising Out of Fear
- We must be Humble. As we come into God’s Presence we Recognize how dirty we are - Is. 6:5; Eccl. 7:20
- Healthy Awe inspiring Reverent Fear of God and His justice is needed today - Ps. 111:10. It is foundational for Revival!
- Sin always has severe consequences – Hab. 1:6,13; Rom. 6:23
II. It Is a Prayer Requesting Revival
- We must Focus on God and His power and ability. Revival must come from God as we plead for Holy Spirit conviction of sin through God’s Word. John 16:8; Heb. 4:12; 2 Pet. 1:20-21; Hab. 3:19
- In God’s Timing, Not Ours! 2 Pet. 3:8, Eccl. 3:1,11; Hab. 2:3; Ps. 37:7
III. It is a Prayer Respecting the Wrath of God
- God’s Wrath is as Real as His Mercy - Rom 1:18, 2:5, 4:15; Ps. 145:8; John 3:36; Eph. 2:1-5; Is. 51:10
- God was going to judge Israel for her sin, He was then going to judge Babylon for her sin.
- Are we praying for Renewal, Mercy, & Salvation? God’s wrath is real if we do not repent!
May we say with Isaiah today: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Is. 51:10
A Challenge To Witness – God Is Good
Nahum 1.7
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him…” Nahum 1:7 This is a message worth sharing! This is a message that is needed today! Let’s each one witness to others about God…
I. “THE LORD IS GOOD” :REVEALS THE PERSONALITY OF THE LORD – Who He Is
A. The Lord is Good: Satan Wants Us to Doubt it. John 8:44; Gen. 3:4-5
B. The Lord is Good: The Bible Displays it. Ex. 34:6 -7; Ps. 106:1; 107:1; 136:1; Jer. 33:11; Lam. 3:25; 1 John 4:8; Mark 10:18; Rom. 12:2
C. The Lord is Good: Creation Declares it! Gen. 1; 1 Tim. 4:4
D. The Lord is Good: The Cross Demonstrates it! Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 4:9; Rom. 5:8
E. The Lord is Good: Christians Delight in it! 2 Chron. 6:14; Ps. 107:8-9; 145:7 What A message of tranquility in a time of trouble!
II. “A Refuge in Times of TROUBLE” :ANNOUNCES THE PROTECTION OF GOD – What He Does
A. God is a Place of Protection in Times of Trouble
Na 1:6-8 “Refuge” means a strong, fortified place. The people of Nineveh thought they were safe in their fortifications, but their security was short-lived compared with the comfort & safety God provides for His people.
B. Times of Trouble Come to All People
a. Times of Physical Sickness b. Times of Spiritual Sickness c. Times of Emotional Upheaval d. Times of Financial Reversals e. Times of Relational Ruin
Trouble comes to every life, but the Lord meets us there. John 14:6-7; 16:7; Matt. 6:25-26; Ps. 23:1; Phil. 4:6-7, 11, 13, 19
What A message of comfort in a time of chaos!
III. “HE Cares for those who TRUST IN HIM” :SPEAKS OF A PERSONAL WALK WITH GOD – What We Need To Do
A. Trust is the Beginning of this Close Connection Prov. 3:5-6;
2 Sam. 22:31; 1 Chron. 5:20
B. Trust is the Basis for this Continual Care Ps. 84:12; Jer. 17:7-8
C. Trust is the Bridge to this Certain Citizenship Phil. 3:20-21;
2 Tim. 1:12; 1 Pet. 2:6 What A message of peace in a time of trouble!
Will you witness to others of how God is good?
An Appeal To Repent – God is Jealous 3.6.2022
Hosea
Our behaviors are slipping, our church attendance sliding, and our moral absolutes sinking! God loves us and with a godly jealousy wants to draw us back to Him. The prophet Hosea faced such a time with Israel and God used him to deliver a powerful message that we need to hear today.
I. Unfaithfulness Pictured (Hosea 1–3)
- Hosea 1:2–3. Hosea is commanded to take action rather than speak and this action required him to marry Gomer, a prostitute
- We commit spiritual adultery” by forsaking the true God - Hosea & his wife Gomer reveals the extent to which the Lord will go to maintain his relationship with us!
- Hosea’s children’s names: 1) Jezreel (1:4) means “scattered,” (2) Lo-ruhamah (1:6) means “no compassion,” (3) Lo-ammi (1:9) means “not my people,”
- 1 John 2:15–17; Rev. 2:4-5; James 4:4-5,7-8; 2 Cor. 11:2–3: If we love the world and live for sin – God is jealous for our affection and we break His heart.
II. Sins Proclaimed (Hosea 4–7)
- They were “guilty of the vilest adultery(idolatry) in departing from the Lord.”(Hos. 1:2) Hos. 4:1-2; 6:1-6 Hosea’s wife was the mirror reflecting exactly who they were and what they were doing in God’s eyes.
- The spiritual condition of the people: (1) a early dew (6:4), (2) a half baked cake (7:8), (3) gray hairs (7:9), (4) a silly dove (7:11), (5) a faulty bow (7:16).
- How would God describe our relationship with Him?
- The more you sin - The easier it is to Sin - And The more you want to sin - And the Harder it is to Stop. What do Garbage and Sin have in common?
- James 1:13-15 Progression of sin: Desire, Deception, Disobedience, and Death.
III. Judgment Pronounced (Hosea 8–10)
- Assyria would punish the nation like: a swift eagle (8:1), a whirlwind (8:7), a burning fire (8:14). They will be scattered (8:8; 9:17), and they will reap more than they have sown (10:12–15; Gal. 6:7–8) How terrible it is to reap the harvest of sin!
-God disciplines those He loves: Heb. 12:1–13; Prov. 3:11–12; Ps. 119:71.
IV. Restoration Promised (Hosea 11–14)
- Hosea 14:4-7 - God will “heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them.”
- We can return to God and experience His forgiveness and a restored relationship with Him! - 1 John 1:9; Luke 5:32, 15:7; Rev. 2:5; Acts 2;38, 3:19; 2 Pet. 3:9
God wants us to stay in a committed exclusive relationship with Him - To have “no other gods before me(God).” (Ex. 20:3) He is a jealous God who calls us to repent and turn to Him if we break His heart.
Please accept our apologies for the missing outlines. We have had some internet issues. I will get them posted ASAP!
Obsessed With Eternal Things - 2.06.2022
Obsessed With Eternal Things
#6 “Crazy Love” Series
Obsessed: “To have the mind excessively preoccupied with a single emotion or topic.” We normally consider an obsession a bad ting. But…have you ever been obsessed with something? Have you ever considered that you should be obsessed with Jesus? How does God feel about the use of our time and money and effort and resources? The idea of “holding back” certainly didn't come from Scripture.
I. God’s Word Teaches Obsession
Matt. 6:33 “But seek _________ his kingdom and his righteousness…”
1 Cor. 15:3-4 “...I passed on to you as of __________ importance”
Prov. 3:9 “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the __________ of all your crops”
2 Cor. 8:5 “They gave themselves _________of all to the Lord”
Luke 10:27 “He answered, “’Love the Lord your God with ___ your heart and with ____ your soul and with ____ your strength and with ____ your mind’; and, ’Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Duet. 6:4-9 “... These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your H_____. I ________ them on your children.”
Phil.3:8; 13-14 “I count ________ things a _______ compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…. _________ thing I do: forgetting what lies behind & straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal of the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
II. Identifying Our Obsessions
- What is temporary? …….
- What is eternal?.....
III. Our obsession Will Make a Difference
- What should be our response……
-
-
-
- How That Response Can Change the ________... 1 Cor. 3:6; Luke 10:2; Col. 1:10; Gal. 2:20; 1 Pet. 4:2-3; John 13:35; Matt. 28:19-20
Are you obsessed with Jesus? Is your life wholly surrendered to Him? What would it look like if it was? Why not surrender your life today to the one who surrendered His life for you?
"Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone" - 2.6.2021
Getting Out of Our Comfort Zone #5 “Crazy Love” Series
One would think that leading a Lukewarm lifestyle for Jesus & giving God the Leftovers of our time, money, talents, & efforts would not be comfortable … but in this world – It Is! We so easily become conformed to this world that we forget THE ONE who made us… THE ONE we are called to Love with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Do we need to get out of a comfort zone?
I. What True Love LOOKS__ LIKE____
A. What It is Not...
B. What It Is...
C. The Perfect EXAMPLE_ of Love.. - 1 John 3:16-17; John 15:13; Phil. 2:7-8; Romans 5:8 - 1 John 4:8 “… God is _LOVE__________.”
D. Are We “In Love” With Jesus?
- True love is COMMITTED__, UNCONDITIONAL_, head over heels sacrifice for the one you can’t do without! - Let us each ask this question: “Are You In Love With Jesus
– Does your relationship with God resemble a relationship where you are truly “in love” with someone?”
II. The Antidote To LUKEWARM__ Isn’t Trying Harder But: LOVE_
- Actions driven by FEAR__ and GUILT__ are not an antidote to lukewarm, selfish, comfortable living.
- When loving Jesus becomes an OBSTACLE__, we focus more on OURSELVES_. Gal. 5:13-14; Luke 11:42
III. Let Jesus CHANGE__ You
- We need GOD__ to help us love God. Our PRAYERS_ for more love results in love, which causes us to pray more, which results in more love. Rev. 3:20; John 10:10; Rom. 8:5; Gal. 5:25
IV. When You’re in Love You Don’t Do LESS__
- When we work for God out of obligation, it feels like WORK_.
- Our work and LABOR_ is prompted by LOVE__. James 2:21-22; 1 Thess. 1:3; John 14:15; Rom. 6:1-3
If you pretend that you enjoy God or love Him, He knows. You can’t fool Him. Instead, tell God how you feel and tell Him that you want Him to change you today!
"Serving God Leftovers" - 1.30.2022
Serving Leftovers to God
#4 “Crazy Love” Series
Malachi 1:6-14
“Jesus’ call to commitment is clear: He wants all or nothing... God wants our best, deserves our best, and demands our best… The thought of a person calling himself a “Christian” without being a devoted follower of Christ is absurd.” Francis Chan. Let’s discover today why leftovers are so unpalatable and why giving God our best is so needed.
I. The PROBLEM___ With Serving God Leftovers
A. Our Leftovers D__________________God.
- If God is our King, Master, and Father, He deserves our respect in our WORSHIP___. Mal. 1:6,14
- If Jesus Christ is God and He died for me, then no SACRIFICE___ is too great for me to make for Him.
1 John 4:9-11; Eph. 5:1-3
B. Our Leftovers Do Not Make God HAPPY______.
- Is not God more IMPORTANT__ than any governor? Mal. 1:8
- God would rather have NOTHING__ from us rather than WORTHLESS_ Worship. Mal. 1:10; Rev. 3:15-16
- By offering our leftover time, efforts, money, and talents it shows God we are: 1) N______________, 2) D______________,
3) CHEAP____.
C. Our Leftovers Leave Us Feeling E______ & U_________.
- Worship of God becomes a BURDEN__ (weariness) Mal. 1:13
II. The P_________ Of Serving God Our Best
A. Our Best Gives God GLORY__
- WHATEVER__ we do should be for Him – 1 Cor. 10:31; Luke 17:18
B. Our Best Brings God J_OY______
- God is P___________ when we give our best! When we obey He is D________! Heb. 13:15-16; Prov. 3:9; Ps. 22:3; Mark 12:30
C. Our Best Leaves Us Feeling F________ and at P_EACE_
- It is what He D_ESIRES__ us to do. Rom. 12:1; Ps. 29:11; Col. 1:16
“I know that this whole swimming-upstream, pursuing-Christ, taking-up-your-cross, countin-the-cost thing isn’t easy. It’s so hard, in fact, that Jesus said the road is narrow and few will actually find it.” – Frances Chan. But serving God with the best we have brings about the most fulfilling, joyful, & peaceful life we could ever dream of and it brings God the glory He deserves.
"Satisfied With Lukewarm" - 1.23.2022
Satisfied With Lukewarm
#3 “Crazy Love” Series
Revelation 3:15-16
“Would you describe yourself as totally in love with Jesus Christ? Or do the words halfhearted, lukewarm, and partially committed fit better? Has your relationship with God actually changed the way you live? Do you see evidence of God’s kingdom in your life?” – Frances Chan. We are going to look at a description of what halfhearted, distracted, partially committed, lukewarm people can look like. As we examine these examples, let us take an honest look at our lives.
1. Lukewarm People Attend_ Church_ Fairly Regularly. Matt.15:8-9
2. Lukewarm People Give Money_ to Charity_ and to the Church_ … as long as it Doesn’t Impinge on their Standard of Living. 1 Chron. 21:24; Luke 21:1-4
3. Lukewarm People Tend to choose what is Popular_ over what is Right__ when they are in Conflict. Rev. 3:1; Matt. 23:5-7; Luke 6:26; James 1:22, 4:17
4. Lukewarm People Say they Love_ Jesus, and He is, indeed, a Part_ of their lives – but only a Part__. Matt. 22:37-38; Luke 9:57-62; 18:11-12
5. Lukewarm People Talk_ about Earth__ much more often than Heaven__. Phil. 3:18-20; Col. 3:2
6. Lukewarm People Do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from Feeling__ too Guilty__. Matthew 13:44-45
7. Lukewarm People Will Serve_ God and Others, but there are Limits__ to how far they will go or how much time, money, and energy they are willing to give and to what people they will love. Matt. 5:43-47; Luke 14:12-14; 18:21-25
8. Lukewarm People Don’t really want to be Saved From_ their Sin; they want to be Saved from the Penalty_ of their Sin. Rom. 6:1-2;
Col. 3:5
9. Lukewarm People Rarely Share__ their Faith_ with their Neighbors, Coworkers, or Friends. Matt. 10:32-33
10. Lukewarm People do not Live by Faith__; their lives are Structured__ so they never have to. Luke 12:16-21
No services 1.16.2022 due to COVID
"Defining YOUR Love for God" - 1.9.2022
Defining YOUR Love for God
#2 “Crazy Love” Series
“Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so.” Most of us have been exposed to the concept of God’s love from childhood in some fashion. But, we may have known of God’s love in our heads, but have we really fully undersotood it in our hearts? How have we responded to such a crazy awesome love? How is your relationship with the Heavehly Father? That is the focus today.
I. What Words Would You Use To Describe Your Relationship With God? Relationships Involve at Least Two Parties!
A. How God Feels About You
- A Heavenly Father______ & His Children________. 1 Jn. 3:1; Gal. 3:26-27;
Matt. 7:11
- Why do you think God Persists in Loving us when we so often Reject______
His Love and We are so U_nlovable__________? Is. 64:6; Jer.1:4-10; Eph. 2:10
- His Supreme S_acrifice_________ shows the Depth of God’s Love and
G_race_______: John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Titus 3:3-5
- God’s Courting, L_uring_________, Pushing, Calling, and T_hreatening
Demonstrate his Love
B. How You Feel About God
- Which of these words Reflect how you feel about your Relationship with
God: 1) Nothing and N_umb___; 2) Confused and U_nsure_;
3) Guilty and A_shamed__; 4) Distant and E_stranged_______;
5) Confident and C_lose______ - Matt. 22:37-38
II. Are You In Love With God Or Just With his Stuff?
- God’s Gifts are Awesome: Forgiveness of Sins, The G_uarantee__ We
won’t go to H_ell____; The Holy Spirit; His W_ord_
- Does your Love for God come out of His Love For You?
III. What Specific Things Can You Do To Grow In Your Love For God?
- R_eminders_ are Good – Num. 15:37-40 “so you will remember”;
Ps. 119:9-16 “hidden your word in my heart…m_editate_”; Phil. 4:8
“think about such things”; 1 Cor. 11:24-25 “do this in remembrance of
me”
- What Works for You?
God is Love! Do you Love Him as you Should? Is there room for growth? It is our Greatest Need and the Greatest Commandment!
"In Awe of God" - 1.2.2022
Awesome God
#1 “Crazy Love” Series
“Be still and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10. The wise man comes to God without saying a word and stands in awe of Him. When we see God’s glory displayed in Creation we realize He is like no other. He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings! Yet, there is an epidemic of spiritual amnesia going around, and none of us is immune. In our world, where hundreds of things distract us from God, we have to intentionally and consistently remind ourselves of how awesome our God is. We need a reminder of two things:
I. Who God Is
What do you see God to be like? What mental image do you have of God Almighty? What is He really like?
OMNIPRESENT & ETERNAL - Ps. 102:12, 27
OMNISCIENT & ALL KNOWING - Ps. 139:1-18; Heb. 4:13
OMNIPOTENT & ALL POWERFUL - Ps. 115:3
II. How We Should Respond
In light of God’s characteristics, what type of person should we be?
HUMBLE - 1 Peter 5:6; Ps. 18:27
TRUSTING - 1 Peter 2:6; Prov. 3:4-6
WORSHIPFUL - Matt. 14:32-34; Ps. 96:9
What will be YOUR response to our Awesome God?
"Great Joy In the Star" - 12.26.2021
“Great Joy In the Star”
Matthew 2:1-11
1. S_____________ the Star
2. The T__________ of the Star
3. The A__________ of the Star
4. The R__________ of the Star
"Meaningful Gifts" - 12.19.2021
“Meaningful Gifts”
Matthew 2:11
The Gifts of Christmas – Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh - How can we honor Jesus as the Magi honored Him with their gifts?
I. Gold = K________________
1. Finalize Our C_________________
2. Follow His D_____________
3. Fight for His S__________
II. Frankincense = P______________
1. Treasure His W_________
2. Lood Forward to His P_____________
III. Myrrh = P__________
"What If There Were No Christmas" - 12.12.2021
“What If There Were No Christmas” Matthew 13:31-32
Suppose we never had Christmas? What would your life be like without Christmas? Jesus Christ, God’s Son, changed virtually every aspect of human life & most people don’t know it.
I. Jesus __Changed the World_____
Matt. 13:31-32 Christ’s influence on the world is immeasurable, no doubt. But here are some areas that have been forever affected.
A. The Value of Human Life. Children - Matt. 19:14; Women - John 4, Matt. 9, John 19: Elderly; Slavery - Col. 4:9; The Gladiator Games; Cannibalism - Matt. 6:26; Suicide
- Make sure we don’t cheapen life through euthanasia, or abortion, or stem cell research, or any other way that life can be cheapen B. Compassion_ for the Poor The world before Christianity was inhospitable. When Christ and the Bible became known, charity and benevolence flourished.
- Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37; Parable of the sheep and goats Matt. 25:40; Rich to give all to the poor Matt. 19:21
- The Early__ Church_ helped the needy. Acts 2:44-45; 4:34:35
- Even Santa_ Clause_ points back to Christ. (4th Century) - Thank God for His compassion in sending His Son & reflect that love as you give compassionately to others and to the poor.
C. Morality____ to the Immoral - Abraham Lincoln once said, “The Bible is the greatest gift God gave to man; apart from it, we would not know right from wrong.”
- Jesus was born into this Cruel_ world. And His impact has been profound! Not until Christian influence was felt did there begin to be a turnaround in Morals__. Christianity spread to the barbarians like the Germanic tribes of the Goths, Franks, and Saxons through Christian missionaries. The Vikings__ turnabout truly shows God’s Power.
- As God’s people we must be the “Salt_ & Light__” (Matt. 5:13-14)
II. We Must Continue to Change the World__________
- By following His directives… John 13:34-45; Matt. 28:19-20; 1 Cor. 10:31. Will you continue the Change the Jesus Began?
Jesus coming certainly changed the world at large - but let us never forget what it would be like if he had not come as relates to us individually. We would be lost - still in our sins.
Discover the Wonder of Christmas - 12.5.2021
Luke 2:8-38
“Discover the Wonder of Christmas”
Luke 2:8-38
Let’s go back to the first Christmas and see if we can discover or rediscover the wonder of the true Christmas God intended for us to enjoy.
I. What “Word” Are We “Spreading”
- Luke 2:8-18 The S________________ were excited about His coming
and “spread the word”.
- Have we lost the E_________ that surrounded His first coming?
- Acts 4:20; John 3:16 Are you still amazed at God’s great Love and ready
to spread the news of it?
II. What “Things” Are We “Treasuring”?
- Luke 2:19 Mary “treasured” these things in her heart. The Greek
word means to “Preserve, Observe, remember, & to keep
closely together.”
- What do we treasure in our hearts? – Family, Job,
Recreation, Power, Fame, or Possessions
- Psalm 119:11; Mark 12:30; Matthew 6:19-21
- God treasures each of us beyond our comprehension.
- The “things we treasure” should be the things of God, God himself and
Heaven our reward.
III. What Are We “Waiting for and Looking Forward” to?
- Luke 2:25-38 Simeon_ and God’s people were “waiting for and
looking forward” to the coming of Jesus.
- Jesus is called “the Consolation of Israel” because he would bring
Comfort to the people by His appearing.
- Since Jesus had appeared & removed all his Fears_ & Anxieties
and fulfilled the promise he was ready to die in peace.
- Do we have the same Anticipation for the coming of Jesus again
that he had for the first coming? Do we look forward to Heaven, New
Bodies, and Seeing Jesus? (2 Pet. 3:13)
I pray today that you may discover or rediscover the joy of Christmas whether you are an unbeliever, a new believer, or a seasoned believer.
Trust God In This - Try the Tithe - 11.28.2021
Malachi 3:7-10
How do you decide what to give back to God? Are there instructions and guidelines in the Bible? What does it mean to “tithe?” Do we “rob God” if we don’t tithe? Let’s see what we can learn this morning about tithing and why you should consider it…
I. God Sees Tithing As Necessary
A. Old Testament Giving
U Lev. 27:30 The tithe belongs to God.
U Mal. 3:8-9 The people robbed God by not giving it.
U Gen. 14:20 & 28:22 Tithing goes back to even before the Law
U Num. 18:21 & 25 Tithes were received by the Levites & it was for
them in return for their service. They also tithed of the tithes
given to them. No one was exempt!
U Deut. 12:17-18; 14:22-26 The tithe was brought to the temple
B. New Testament Giving
U 1 Cor. 16:2 Regular Gift, Everyone Giving, A Proportionate Gift
U Mark 12:41-44 Jesus recognized the value of a proportionate gift
U Matt. 23:23 Jesus told the Pharisees to continue the tithe
U Heb. 8:6 We are under a better covenant with better promises
U Heb. 9:13-14 It is sealed by a better blood – Christ’s
U Heb. 7:8 The Lord looks at the tithe as going straight to Him
U Acts 4:32-35 The first Church was composed of Tithers
U Gal. 3:24-25 Could giving less than a tithe be better now?
U 2 Cor. 8:1-7; 9:6-7 Give out of Compassion not Compulsion
II. God’s Work Needs Tithing
U Tithes & Offerings go to provide for preachers here; training preachers & kingdom workers at Bible Colleges; support our camp & campers; provides for missionaries in Africa, Ireland, India, all over; helps needy here; utilities for building; literature; youth program; etc.. (Neh. 12:47; 13:10-12 - God’s work goes Undone)
III. Tithing Acknowledges God’s Generosity
A. It is a tangible acknowledgement of God’s ownership
U All the earth and we ourselves are His! - Ps 24:1; 1 Cor. 6:19-20
B. Failure to tithe robs God of money and recognition due Him
as Owner
Determine today to give God what is due Him. God says, “Test Him!” Why don’t you? You will find that you cannot out-give God! Return to Him what is already His and He will bless you beyond measure!
Growing Together As God Intended - 11.21.2021
God intended for us to grow together in the Lord, but it does not happen on its own; it takes time and effort to happen. I want us to examine what growing together looks like according to Scripture, why we need it, and how we can encourage it in our church.
I. Growing Together is Expected
- Acts 2:42-47 “devoted to Fellowship” - Fellowship means: Participation, a joint-sharing, to have in common.
- Heb. 10:25 – not forsaking meeting together
- “One another” or “Each other” occurs 100 times in the New Testament. The Christian life is meant for growing & it is meant for “growing together.” - “Serve one another in love.” (Gal. 5:13). “Forgiving each other…” (Eph. 4:32). “Encourage each other…” I Thess. 5:11). “Spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” (Heb. 10:24) “Confess your sins to each other……Pray for each other.” (James 5:16) “Live in harmony with one another” (I Pet. 3:8) “Love one another.” (1 Jn 3:11,23; 4:7,11,12)
II. Growing Together Is Based On Things In Common
A. A Common SAVIOR - 1 John 1:1; John 14:6; Matt. 7:13-14; Prov. 27:17; 2 Cor. 6:14
B. A Common MESSAGE - 1 John 1:2-5; 1 Cor. 15:3-4
C. A Common LIFESTYLE - 1 Jn 1:6-7a; 2 Tim. 1:5; 1 Pet. 2:12
D. A Common BLESSING- 1 John 1:7b, Rev. 2:10; 1 John 2:17
III. Growing Together Is Needed
A. Spiritual Growth is Not Automatic – It Is Intentional.
Heb. 5:12; Phil 2:12-13; 1 Tim. 4:7 Spiritual growth is too important to be left to circumstance. Keep yourself spiritually fit!
B. Spiritual Growth is Not Instant – It Is a Process
Duet. 7:22; James 3:13
C. Spiritual Growth is Not Easy – It is a Commitment
Luke 14:25-35; We need one another! – Heb. 10:24-25
We don’t grow in isolation of others we grow in the context of fellowship. Will you commit to grow in the Lord with your fellow believers?
Dealing With Rejection - 11.14.2021
Rom 15:17 & Isaiah 54: 4-6
Almost all of us have experienced rejection at one time or another, but many of us have not understood its nature or its effects. God understands your pain, can heal you from the wounds that come from rejection, help you to accept yourself, and enable you to show His love to others.
I. The Making of Rejection
- Why Were We Rejected?
- Was That Rejection Experienced Early In Life?
- Was Our Rejection Reoccurring?
- What Substitute Basis Have We Sought Acceptance? – Possessions,
Performance, Appearance, Power, Prestige, Fame, or Conformity?
II. The Marks of Rejection
- Withdrawal from deeper relationships …
- Dependence upon others for acceptance …
- Acceptance based on achievement…
- Passion and Pleasure as Goals...
- Relief in alcohol and/or drugs…
- Sinful Relationships...
III. The Medicine For Rejection
- Eph. 1:3-6 - We are Accepted in Christ.
- 1 John 4:19 - It is the love of God in us that stimulates our love response
- Heb. 13:5 - We Are Assured of God’s Continual Care For Us!
- Is. 49:14-16; Rom. 8: 1-2; 16-18 – We are God’s Children, free from
condemnation and rejection!
- Ps. 27:10 – God’s Love Is Better Than Any Other!
- Step 1. Recognize Our Rejection…. STEP 2. Remember Jesus Rejection. - Is. 53:3; 1 Peter 2:21; Luke 23:34… STEP 3. Get Rid of Rejection Fruit… STEP 4. Receive what God has already done for Us…. STEP 5. Accept Ourselves. - Eph. 2:10; 2 Cor. 5:17-18
Jesus offers acceptance, love, and healing for our wounded rejected soul through the exchanges of the cross… He experienced rejection by God and man in order that we might be accepted by God and God’s family. He suffered shame so that we might share His glory. He died our death so that we might receive His life… Do you have His life and acceptance today?
Seeing The Past Through Christ - 11.07.2021
We all have a past. How do you view yours and how does it affect your present and your future?
I. Will We Recognize That Bad Things Do Happen To Good People?
- Matt. 5:45; Job 1:1, 21; 13:15; Luke 18:19
1) Bad Things Are Temporary - 2 Cor. 4:16–18
2) Bad Things Can Equip Us - 2 Cor. 1:3–5
3) Bad Things Can Be Used For Good – Rom. 8:28; Gen. 50:19–21;
1 Pet. 2:20–23; Prov. 3:5-6
II. Will We Refuse To Let The Past Control Us?
- We can’t isolate ourselves completely from everything that may set off an
emotional response.
- The Past: Reevaluate it in light of the present. Put the present situation in
perspective – make a mental evaluation.
- Luke 4:17–21 - Jesus came to set the captives free
- Ps. 139:23-24; Jn 16:13; 8:32 – Pray & Follow the Leading of the Holy Spirit
III. Will We Realize How Who We Are In Christ Now Sets Us Free From The Past?
- We are no longer a product of our past, but a product of Christ’s work on
the cross! We are a New Creation!
- 2 Cor. 5:17; 4:7-10; Rom. 12:2; Gal. 5:22–25; 1 John 5:18;
IV. Will We Recommit To Forgive Those Who Have Hurt Us?
- Matt. 18:21-35; 2 Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:31–32; Heb. 10:17; Ps. 103:12;
Rom. 12:19
1. Ask the Lord to reveal to your mind the people you need to forgive. 2. Acknowledge the hurt and the hate. 3. Embrace the Cross. (Heb. 10:10) 4. Decide to bear the burden of each person’s sin. (Gal 6:1–2) 5. Decide to forgive. 6. Take your list to God and pray. 7. Destroy the list. 8. Do not expect that your decision to forgive will result in major changes in the other persons. (Matt. 5:44; 2 Cor. 2:7). 9. Try to understand the people you have forgiven, but don’t rationalize their behavior. 10. Expect positive results of forgiving others. 11. Thank God for the lessons you have learned (Rom. 8:28–29). 12. Confess any wrongdoing on our part (1 John 1:9)
In order to have a blessed future we must trust Christ with our past and “let Him have His way” with us!
"Hooked On A Feeling" - 10.31.3021
God created us as emotional beings. We feel love, joy, guilt, anger, disappointment, fear, etc. Sometimes our emotions are grounded in truth, and sometimes they are “false” in that they are based upon false premises. And emotions can be helpful indicators of what is going on in our hearts. Neil Anderson says, “You Must Be Real to Be Right.”
I. Remember: Emotions Reveal Our Beliefs
- False Beliefs Concerning God’s Control Produce Emotions of Fear, Despair, Anxiety, Depression 1 Peter 5:7–8; Lam. 3:1-11,18-24; Heb. 11:1
- When We Change What We Think Our Emotions Follow: Jeremiah
- We cannot blame others for our emotional reactions.
- We don’t feel our way into good behavior; we behave our way into good feelings. Gen. 4:6–7; John 13:17; Eph. 4:25–27
II. Red Flag: Watch the Warning Signs of Your Emotions
Emotions can be Cautionary Indicators - We Can Respond in 3 ways:
1) Suppression – David: Psalm 32:3, 6; 39:1-2; 32:4; Eph. 4:25
- It is emotional dishonesty & major cause of mental illnesses
2) Indiscriminate Expression – Peter: Matt. 16:16, 23; James 1:19–20
- Getting something off our chest may be healthy for us, but it usually isn’t for those around us.
3) Acknowledgment – David: Ps. 109:1-13, 26, 30; Matt. 23:27; 1 John 1:7; Eph. 5:15–18; 1 Pet. 5:6–11
- We Should Manage our emotions rather than allowing our emotions to manage us. We are to be Controlled by the Holy Spirit not Emotions.
- Confessing emotions is essential for intimate relationships.
III. Restore: Emotional Honesty
- John 11:35; Rom. 12:15; Job 6:26. We all need to learn how to respond to others when they honestly acknowledge their pain.
- Eph. 4:15 - Speak “the truth in love”; Prov. 16:32
- Commands are commands, whether we feel like obeying them or not. We are responsible for our actions, not our feelings. Rom. 6:6; 2 Cor. 5:17
- Sharing our feelings honestly with others is also helpful in managing emotions. Gal. 6:1–10; 2 Cor. 1:3–5; Heb. 3:13
Allowing our emotions to control us is not godly. Denying or vilifying our emotions is not godly, either. We should thank God for our ability to feel emotion and steward our emotions as a gift from God. The way to manage our emotions is to grow in our walk with God as we renew our minds.
"More Than A Mind Game" - 10-24-2021
Ephesians 6:10–12
We are in a war, a war for our minds, hearts and souls. This struggle and the battles that result are spiritual with eternal consequences. Paul didn’t mince any words when he wrote, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (1 Tim. 4:1). It is important for us to understand the battle for our minds – to know Satan’s Schemes (2 Cor. 2:11) or mind games. Then we can discover how we can win that battle for our minds.
I. Thoughts and Temptations
- 2 Cor. 4:18; 10:3–5; Eph. 2:2; 6:10–17; 1 Cor. 10:13; 14:20;
Rom. 13:14; Prov. 3:5; James 1:8;
- Factors: Environmental Stimulation, Traumatic Experiences,
Fallen World, Father of Lies
II. Recognizing Mental Strongholds
- Strongholds are neural pathways in the brain that form as a result
of actions & habits. Examples are: - 2 Cor. 2:11; 4:4; 11:3
III. Exposing Satan’s Lies
- David - 1 Chron. 21:1; Judas – John 13:2; Ananias & Sapphira - Acts 5:3
- Rom. 7:1 Satan is a defeated foe; therefore, his power is limited,
but he still has the ability to deceive “the whole world” (Rev. 12:9)
- John 8:32, 44; 17:15-17; Eph. 6:14
- Satan’s lie cannot withstand the truth any more than the darkness
of night can withstand the light of the rising sun.
IV. Winning The Battle For Our Mind
1) Renew Our Mind – Rom. 12:2; Col. 3:15-16;
2) Prepare Our Mind - 1 Pet. 1:13; Ps. 139:23-24; 2 Cor. 13:5
3) Capture Thoughts - 2 Cor. 10:5
4) Pray when Anxious – Phil. 4:6-7
5) Commit to Positive Thinking – Phil. 4:8-9
Our minds are the place where God can cultivate a crop of ministry and service or Satan can reap a harvest of wasted potential and corrupt actions – the choice is ours. Don’t let Satan play you with his mind games!
"Making Adjustments" - 10-17-2021
Making Adjustments
Our loving God wants the best for His children, as any good parent would. To be the recipients of God’s benefits, we must renew our minds, (Make Adjustments) until they are in agreement with God’s perspective on these areas of life:
1. Success. Key Concept: Goals
God wants His children to prosper - 2 Pet. 1:5–10; Josh. 1:7–8; Mark 8:36–37; Luke 15:10; Matt. 5:6; Phil. 3:12–14; Matt. 5:16; 25:21
2. Significance. Key Concept: Time
1 Cor. 3:14; 1 Tim. 4:7–8; Eph. 2:10 We are all in the significant business of laying up treasures in heaven.
3. Fulfillment. Key Concept: Role Preference
Fulfillment is blooming where you’re planted. 1 Peter 4:10; 2 Cor. 5:20 We Should Find Fulfillment As We Are: “Christ’s Ambassadors”
4. Satisfaction. Key Concept: Quality
We will achieve greater satisfaction from doing a few things well than from doing many things in a haphazard or hasty manner. Matt. 5:6; Prov. 18:24
5. Happiness. Key Concept: Wanting What You Have
It is unlikely that we will experience the joy of the Lord if we focus on what we don’t have. 1 Tim. 6:6–8
6. Fun. Key Concept: Uninhibited Spontaneity
Gal. 1:10; 2 Sam. 6:21 . It is a lot more fun pleasing the Lord than trying to please people.
7. Security. Key Concept: Relating to the Eternal
Insecurity is depending upon earthly things. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” – Jim Elliot
John 10:27–29; Rom. 8:35–39; Eph. 1:13–14; 1 Jn. 5:13; Phil. 3:7-8
8. Peace. Key Concept: Establishing Internal Order
The peace of God is internal, not external. Rom. 5:1; Jer. 8:11; John 14:27; Col. 3:15–16; Phil. 4:6-7
Will you make the adjustments necessary so that your life will be blessed by God who wants the very best for you?
"Are God's Goals Our Goals?" - 10-03- 2021
Are God’s Goals Our Goals?
Have you ever considered what God’s goals for your life are? Through Jesus Christ, God came to save us because He created us to be holy (1 Pet. 1:15-16) and we should never tolerate any practice that is not in keeping with a holy God. We are not destined to happiness, nor to health, but to holiness! How can we know whether we are achieving the goal of holiness or not? Today we look at 7 goals of God that can serve as a measuring stick to help us determine the areas of our lives that are in need of strengthening:
I. Scripture – We Strive To Make God’s Word The Guide For Our Lives.
We love the Bible. We can’t get enough Scripture. Ps. 119:9 & 11. We make sure our children learn it. Deut. 6:6-9; Col. 3:16
II. Supplication – We Seek God Daily In Prayer.
Prayer is our well of life! 1 Thess. 5:16; Luke 22:46 We should be praying on all occasions & for each other. Eph. 6:18
III. Savior – We Are Devoted To Following Jesus No Matter What.
2 Tim. 2:8-9; Jn. 15:20; Lk. 9:23-26
IV. Spirit – We Live Each Day Guided By The Holy Spirit.
Gal. 5:16, 22- 25; 6:7-10
V. Saints – We Are Committed To Corporate Worship & Fellowship. Heb. 10:25 All of us are vital members of Christ’s body. 1 Cor. 12:20-21, 26-27; Acts 2:42
VI. Sanctification – We Are Obedient In Being Set Apart From The World.
1 Thess. 4:3-8 Our lives are to be pure living sacrifices for God. Rom. 12:1
VII. Service – We Minister To Others Out Of Thanks To God.
We use our gifts to serve the Body. 2 Cor. 9:12-13. Without obedience our Confession is hollow. Eph. 4:11
If God had not intended for us to be holy people He would not have commanded us to be so. Part of living a life of holiness is developing habits in our lives that are holy. However if we try to do these things on our own, we are doomed to fail. Only Christ living in our lives can make holiness a reality for sinful humanity. He works from the inside out to make us what we need to be as we set these Godly goals in place.
Twenty "Cans" of Success - Read at the end of "Walking In Faith" sermon - 9-26-2021
Twenty “Cans” of Success
· Why should I say I can’t when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13)?
· Why should I worry about my needs when I know that God will take care of all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)?
· Why should I fear when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7 KJV)?
· Why should I lack faith to live for Christ when God has given me a measure of faith (Romans 12:3)?
· Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psalm 27:1; Daniel 11:32)?
· Why should I allow Satan control over my life when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)?
· Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that God always leads me in victory (2 Corinthians 2:14)?
· Why should I lack wisdom when I know that Christ became wisdom to me from God, and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it (1 Corinthians 1:30; James 1:5)?
· Why should I be depressed when I have hope and can recall to mind God’s loving-kindness, compassion, and faithfulness (Lamentations 3:21–23)?
· Why should I worry and be upset when I can cast all my anxieties on Christ who cares for me (1 Peter 5:7)?
· Why should I ever be in bondage knowing that there is freedom where the Spirit of the Lord is (2 Corinthians 3:17)?
· Why should I feel condemned when the Bible says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1)?
· Why should I feel alone when Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me nor forsake me (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5)?
· Why should I feel as if I’m cursed or have bad luck when the Bible says that Christ rescued me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit by faith (Galatians 3:13–14)?
· Why should I be unhappy when I, like Paul, can learn to be content whatever the circumstances (Philippians 4:11)?
· Why should I feel worthless when Christ became sin for me so that I might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21)?
· Why should I feel helpless in the presence of others when I know that if God is for me, who can be against me (Romans 8:31)?
· Why should I be confused when God is the author of peace and He gives me knowledge through His Spirit who lives in me (1 Corinthians 2:12; 14:33)?
· Why should I feel like a failure when I am more than a conqueror through Christ who loved me (Romans 8:37)?
· Why should I let the pressures of life bother me when I can take courage knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and its problems (John 16:33)?
Walking In Faith - 9-26-2021
When you hear inspiring stories of faith, do you wonder if that only applies to exceptional people, or is faith what makes ordinary people exceptional? The Bible’s “Hall of Fame” in Heb. 11 would argue that faith makes ordinary people extraordinary! All of them “gained approval through their faith” (Heb. 11:39). Let’s learn today how to be extraordinary through God!
I. How Important Is Our Faith?
Nothing is more vital than to understand the principles of faith!
1. We are saved by faith – Eph. 2:8–9; 2. We are to walk by faith - 2 Cor. 5:7; 3. We are to have faith to please God - Heb. 11:6
II. Who Is The Object of Our Faith?
Everyone (Christian & Unbelievers) lives by faith - The only difference is the object of our faith. Who do we put our faith in?
God Proves Himself by:
1. His Evidence in Nature - The Design Demands a Designer! –
Rom. 1:19-20; Gen. 1:1; Col. 1:16
2. His Prophecies Were Fulfilled - Mic. 5:2; Isa. 7:14; Zech. 9:9;
Isa. 53:1-4; Isa. 49:6
3. His Power Displayed – He is Omnipotent - Col. 2:12; Matt. 19:26;
Rev. 11:17
4. His Unchanging Nature – Heb. 13:8; Mal. 3:6; Is. 40:8
III. How Do We Grow In Our Faith?
How Much Faith We Have Is Dependent Upon How Well We Know the Object of Our Faith.
A. Get To Know God Better - Jer. 9:23–24; 1 Cor. 1:31 If we have
little knowledge of God & His Word, we will have little faith -
Rom. 10:17 Our Faith grows as our confidence in God grows.
B. Act On Our Faith - Faith Is an Action Word. James 2:17-18
C. Watch Out For Faith Falsehoods - James 2:17; Matt. 17:20; 19:26;
Gen. 3:1; John 17:17 John 10:27; 1 Tim. 4:1; Heb. 5:14
Believing we can live a victorious Christian life takes no more effort than believing we cannot. So why not believe that we can walk by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit; that we can resist the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil; and that we can grow as a Christian as we walk by Faith? It is our choice. (See: Twenty “Cans” of Success)
Living By The Spirit - 9-19-2021
To live under grace we need to learn how to: “walk (live) by the Spirit.” (Gal. 5:16) But, how do we walk by the Spirit? There is no instant formula we can serve up, but there is plenty of Scripture to guide us into a better place in our knowledge of how the Spirit works & doesn’t work. Let’s see exactly what it means to live by the Spirit:
I. L___________ of the Spirit
John 3:8; Gal. 6:8 Enables us to L_____ and M_____ obstacles we would otherwise be powerless against.
A. Helps us to F______ God’s I______________ - Ezekiel 36:26,27
B. Helps us P______ more effectively. Romans 8:26
C. Helps us L_____ and F__________ - Rom. 5:5; 2 Tim. 1:7
D. Helps bring J______ - John 7:38, 39
E. Helps bring C_____, P____, & Direction – Jn. 14:26-27; Is. 26:3; Rom. 8:11
II. L___________ and the Spirit
Living by the Spirit is not a L_______ to do W__________ we want.
Rom. 6:1-2; Jude 1:4
III. L__________ and the Spirit
Living by the Spirit is N____ a L_____ of D______ & D______. Gal. 5:18; 3:10, 21, 24; 1 Pet. 5:8
IV. L__________ and the Spirit
Living by the Spirit is F_______ and Rest – Not S______ or R_______, but W_______ or Keeping in Step. 2 Cor. 3:17; 1 Cor. 3:6-9; Matt. 11:28–30; John 10:9; Heb. 5:8; Is. 40:30–31
V. L___________ by the Spirit
Living by the Spirit means a willingness to be S___________ & F__________ Christ & the Spirit’s L_______ Rom. 8:14; John 10:27, 16:13; 1 Thess. 5:19
VI. L__________ F_______ of the Spirit
Living by the Spirit means B_______ Q_________ resembling the Spirit.
Gal. 5:19-23; Mark 7:20; 1 John 4:16
Jesus said of the Spirit, “The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit” (John 3:8). Being filled and led by the Spirit may take us places we never planned, but the will of God will never lead us where the grace of God cannot keep us. So let’s pull in the oars and put up the sail and see where God takes us as we LIVE BY THE SPIRIT!
Freedom Isn’t Free
Our freedoms are often taken for granted. Let’s pause this July 4th and talk about the freedoms we share as Americans and Christians and how those freedoms should motivate us…
I. Remember: Freedom C__________
A. Our N_______________ Freedom
B. Our S________________ Freedom
- John 8:32-36 We know the truth, and the truth will set us free -
The S_______ sets us free!
- Rom. 8:1-2 There is no C_______________ for those in Jesus
- Heb. 9:15 Jesus died as a R__________ to set us free from sins
- Heb. 2:9-10 Jesus tasted death for us & brought us to G______
II. Reflect: Freedom Should M___________
A. Gratitude And A_____________
- Rom. 7:25 Thanks be to God who D________ us through Jesus!
- 1 Cor. 15:57 Thanks be to God who gives us the V____ through
Jesus Christ Our Lord
- 2 Cor. 9:15 Thanks be to God for His I_________________ gift!
B. E_______________ And Joy
- Phil. 4:4 We have reason to rejoice A_________
- Eph. 1:5 We are children of God: A_______ through Jesus
- Rom. 8:17, Titus 3:7 We are H_______ of a Glorious Kingdom
- Rom. 8:37 We are more than C_____________ through Jesus
- 1 Cor. 2:9 We can’t even I_____ all that God has instore for us!
C. Prayer And A___________
- 2 Chron. 7:14 “If my people, who are called by my name, will
humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from
their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will
forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
- 1 Thess. 5:17 Pray C______________
- 1 Tim. 2:1-2 Pray for our L__________
- Esther 5:1-3 B________ Act for God and His people
Let’s celebrate this July 4th with greater motivation & knowledge!
Being Content
Philippians 4:10-13
I. Content Where you are
A. Paul still Preaches
B. Paul still Thanked and Praises God
C. Paul still has Joy
II. Content When Others can help
III. Content With all Circumstances
A. Remember The Cross
B. Let Go of the Past
C. Live one day at a Time
D. Find Sufficiency in Jesus
Remember Contentment isn’t Complacency
Clay In The Potter’s Hands
Object lessons abound in the Old and New Testaments. Often times an object lesson can teach us in a way that other lessons can’t. The one we will learn from today is used many times in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah. Let’s consider three lessons that can be learned from clay and the clay pot.
I. We Are Clay Molded Together By THE Potter
A. We are God’s Masterpiece
Gen. 1:26; 2:7 Job 33:6
B. We cannot Hide Anything from God
Isaiah 29:15-16
C. We were Formed with a Purpose
John 4:23-24; Matt. 28:19-20; James 2:24; Is. 64:8; 43:7; Eph. 2:10; 4:24
D. We should Beware of Questioning the Potter
Isaiah 45:9-10; Rom. 8:28
II. We Are Clay That Can Be Remolded By THE Potter
A. What seemed to be Good became Bad
Jer. 18:9-10; Heb. 6:4-6; 2:1; 10:26; 1 Tim. 5:15; 1 Cor. 9:27
B. What seemed to be Ruined became Useful
Jer. 18:7-8; John 3:16; Matt. 6:14-15
III. We Are Clay That Can Be Smashed By THE Potter
A. There is a Limit to what God will Stand
Jer. 19:1-10; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; Luke 3:9
B. Hell was Prepared for the Devil and his angels
Matt. 25:41; Luke 15:10
What lessons do you most need to be reminded of? God, our Great Potter, has created us and we are to be about His work. If we have not been about His work, it’s not too late to be made into a new work of His. But we must remember that there will be a day when it will be too late. Choose you this day whom you will serve!
The Trust of the Church that Christ Built
Psalm 146:3; Proverbs 3:5
Generally speaking, we are more skeptical than trusting. But, we must have trust in Christ’s church. So let’s see how God has given us reason to trust Him today:
I. Trust in the Designer He is credible and trustworthy
A. His C__________ Revealed Shouts it
1. The Bible says the World is R________! Is. 40:22; Luke 17:34-36
2. Man’s Computer vs God’s amazing “living computer” – No Match!
3. Our Human Body – God’s M_____________ Psalm 139:14; Gen. 1:27
Man is the C________ of C___________. Rom. 1:20-25
B. His M__________ Displayed Testify to it Jn. 14:10; 20:30-31 Ex. 10:1
C. His P__________ Fulfilled Prove it Virgin Birth – Is. 7:14; Jesus Parables – Ps. 78:2; Triumphal Entry – Zech. 9:9; Pierced for our Sin – Is. 53:4-5; Casting of Lots – Ps. 22:18; “every one of God’s promises is a ‘Y____.” 2 Cor. 1:20; John 14:1; Mark 9:24 – “It is not our trust that keeps us, but the G_____ in whom we trust who keeps us.” – Oswald C.
II. Trust in the Design/Plans
“Trustfulness is based on confidence in God, whose ways I do not U________. If I did, there would be no need for trust.” – Oswald C.
A. God’s Word is Designed to Reveal God’s Will for His C_____.
God is our only way to salvation – Isaiah 12:2; God’s Word is – HIS Word – 2 Pet. 1:20-21; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Heb. 4.12
The First Church had at it’s core God’s Word to G_____ it – Acts 2:42
We must be careful to stay T_____ to God’s Word and nothing else. 2 John 1:9; 1 Tim. 4:16; Rev. 22:18
B. God’s Church is Designed to Carry Out God’s Plan of S__________ We are the church & Jesus is the C____________ on which we build. Eph. 2:20-22
We have a mission to carry God’s message of R___________ to the whole world. 2 Cor. 5:17-20; Matt. 28:19-20
III. Trust in the Design Team/Leadership
A. Jesus is THE H_____ of the Church Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23
B. Elders/Pastors/Overseers/Shepherds are the Spiritual Leaders of the Church on earth 1 Tim. 5:17-19; 1 Thess. 5:12
The church is made up of I__________ people.
C. Deacons are the Servants of the Church carrying out ministry
The word “deacon” means “S_________.” Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-10 Trust the Designer, the design, and the design team! “Attempt something so great for God that it’s doomed to failure unless God be in it.”
Can You See?
Mission Possible
Graduation – a time of new beginnings, a time of new challenges, a time of new possibilities! How will you view the future “opportunities”? Can You See...
I. What God Sees Possible Concerning Your E_______ P_______
Matt. 19:26 “… With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
James 1:5 “If any of you lacks w________, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
Prov. 27:17 “As iron s___________ iron, so one man s____________ another.”
II. What God Sees Possible In Other P________ L________
Matt. 16:18 “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…”
1 Sam. 16:7 “… The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the o__________ appearance, but the LORD looks at the h_______.”
III. What God Sees Possible Through Your C________ L_______
Ex. 4:11-12 “Moses says to the LORD, ‘… I am slow of speech and tongue’… Now go; I will h______ you speak and will t________ you what to say.”
1 Cor. 1:27 “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the w_______; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the s__________.”
Our dependence on God or “lack of” determines whether we will see the Stars or the Bars! Will you see as God does – A Mission Possible?
Incredible Salvation – Focus: Baptism
What God intended to be a simple act of obedience has become surrounded in controversy, contention, and confusion! We know the Bible speaks of baptism and the first Church practiced it – so what meaning does it have for us today? That is our focus.
I. It Is A P________________.
- We act out the gospel:
In B____________ we act the D_________ of Christ
In B____________ we act the B_________ of Christ.
In B____________ we act the R_________ of Christ.
- The meaning is clear: to I__________. Other forms do not portray the facts of D______, B______, & R___________.
- ln this D______ the sinner plays the part of Christ for on
Calvary Christ played the part of the sinner.
II. It Is A P________________.
- Gal.3:27, Col.2:12 - Only God can raise a person up to a
New Life. God acts in B________ as He acted in the Resurrection. It is the O______ of God not a W____ of man.
- Acts 2:38; 22:16; Eph.5:26; Mk 16:16 - The P______ of a P________ believer in the death of Christ through B_______ brings him to forgiveness & Gift of the Holy Spirit.
III. It Is An E_______________.
- Our Physical Life began with Birth. Our Spiritual Life must
Begin with Death, our Death to S________. – Rom. 6:2,8,11
- I_____ involves us in a death-like S______. Naaman bows to the will of God–no alternatives -"This do & you shall live"
- B_________ involves us in the death of P________, Self-reliance, our own W_____, and our own Self-_________.
- Christ laid aside His pride to mount the cross - We must lay aside our pride to re-enact it.
- Baptism then, is not a matter of the W___, but of the W__.
- B________ marks the point when we say farewell to the old life ruled by Satan and we surrender our W________, our R_________ ,our P_________ - OUR ALL TO CHRIST!
Today will you kneel in Gethsemane's garden and pray with Christ, "Not my will, but Thine be done"? Will you submit your life to Christ and begin anew in Christian Baptism?
Invincible Name
Why call the Church the Church of Christ? Why should we be called Christians? Why should we be governed by elder leadership? – This is our focus today as we continue with “Church Basics”…
I. The Head of the Church
A. Christ Came To E__________ His One Church. Rom. 12:4-5 & Eph. 4:4-6 “one body; Matt. 16:18 "Upon this rock I will build ______ church."
B. Christ is the One Head of His Church. Eph. 5:23; Eph. 1:22-23 head over E______________; Col. 1:18 head of the body
II. The Name of the Church
A. Corporately - Eph. 5; Acts 4:12; John 14:6; Rom. 16:16; Matt. 16:18 - Churches of Christ; Church of G_____; God’s church; Church of the living God; Church of the F_________; The church; Kingdom of God, Christ & heaven; The body of Christ; B_______ of Christ
B. Individually – “Not the _____ Christians, but Christians ______.” Acts 11:26 - The disciples were called C____________ first at Antioch. Gal. 3:26-28; 1 Peter 4:16; I Cor. 1:10-13 ; Col. 3:11
III. The Organization of the Church
A. Plurality of E_______. Each congregation was a free, self-governing body of believers. There were only three permanent leadership roles within the church – Evangelists, Elders, & D________. Eph. 4:11-12; 1 Pet. 2:9; Acts 20:17, 28; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; Acts 14:23; 1 Pet. 5:1-4; Acts 16:4; I Tim. 5:17
B. M________________ that have arose through the years.
1) Elders which pass the buck; 2) Elders over the spiritual & deacons over the P________; 3) Deacons are Junior Elders; 4) W_______ as Elders; 5) “Church Board” decisions; 6) Elders devoid of A________.
C. Our Response is to R________ our Leadership. 1 Thess. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:17
What name will you wear? Will you honor the name of Christ as you minister, commit, serve, & respect? Will we govern as Christ instructed? Will we be Christ’s Church as He intended?
The Harvest Prayer
Acts 2:42; Luke 10:2
The First Church was a praying Church. And that is to be our pattern. Acts 2:42 tells us: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching & to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Today we talk about prayer and I want to hone in on one specific type of prayer that is commanded of us by Jesus - “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.“ Luke 10:2
I. The Harvest Is Plentiful
- There are billions of people today who do not know about Jesus.
- There are those far off and those next doors.
- There must be sowing before reaping!
II. The Laborers Are Few
- 7.8 Billion People in the World
- 5.5 Billion People are not Christians
- __________ Preachers & Missionaries Rom. 10:13-15
III. Pray, Encourage, Step Out
A. Pray to God to Send Laborers. 2 Cor. 9:6
B. We Should Encourage Others.
C. We Should Be Willing To Step Out. Matt. 28:19-20
- Lessons on Evangelism or Witnessing For Jesus: 1) The Woman at the Well John 4:28-30 - Tell What You Know. 2) Gadarene Demoniac –Luke 8:38-39; Rom. 6:23 - Tell Others What Jesus Has Done For You. 3) Aquila and Priscilla. Acts 18:24-26 - Tell Others What To Do To Be Saved.
- Moses’ Excuses & Perhaps Ours Too: 1) Insignificance - Ex. 3:11;
2) Ignorance - Ex. 3:13; 3) Insufficiency - Ex. 4:1; 4) Inability - Ex. 4:10;
5) Irresponsibility - Ex. 4:13
Our Challenge: Devote yourself to pray the harvest prayer continually –– “Lord, send out workers into the harvest field.” But let us also encourage others and be willing to be used ourselves!
Inspirational Communion
Acts 2:42
The first Church was called by Christ to remember His death through what is known as the Lord’s Supper or Communion. They obeyed & devoted themselves to this. Why should this be important & what larger significance does Communion play in each of our lives?
I. Communion Serves To R______________ Us
+ As human beings we are prone to F___________.
+ "The H____ S_____ also performs this function" - John 14:26
+ We have but one name to enshrine – J_______ Alone Defeated the forces of Darkness!
+ The Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world” should be our F__________. Isaiah 53
+ "Do this in R________________ of me" - 1 Cor. 11:23-26
II. Communion Serves To R______________ Us
+ "On the night He was B____________" - 1 Cor. 11:23
+ Had we no sins we would need no L_______ S___________
+ He loves us too much to let us R________ as we are! God wants to change us to be more like Christ – Sanctified & Holy!
+ "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my E__________." Psalm 23:5
+ "A man ought to E________ H__________..." - 1 Cor. 11:28
+ We refocus, r____, & rejoice as we are renewed & refreshed.
III. Communion Serves To R_____________ Us
+ The T_______ is spread in the midst of a D________ World
+ "We are all O______ in Christ Jesus" - Gal. 3:28
+ No B_______ W____ can keep us from our time with Jesus at His Table!
+ What can save our world? – Only Christ, and our R________ with one another through Him!
+ Like two great arms of Christ, the L_____ S________ & the L_______ D_____ reach out to embrace the whole earth!
+ "With your B________ you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation." - Rev. 5:9
Is Communion a priority for you in your Christian walk? Do you take it in the proper manner? Are you truly thankful for Jesus Sacrifice?
Fellowship
Sometimes the church doesn’t provide the best fellowship. Instead of finding love & acceptance, people find insensitivity & indifference. Instead of finding the church a place of honesty & encouragement, they find phoniness & criticism. So they look elsewhere for fellowship & the church misses an opportunity to meet people’s deepest needs. The First Church was an authentic display of acceptance, forgiveness, concern, & support. Let’s learn from them that…
I. Christian Fellowship was Established on a Common Commitment to Jesus Christ
- Acts 2:42-43 “Devoted” means “adhered to” or “to stick like glue.”
- 1 John 1:7 – “IF” we walk in the light
- Fellowship can be based on things like: Sports, Music, Politics, Food, AA, or even Family - these are a Temporary Foundation.
- The most meaningful Fellowship in Jesus is based on a:
A. Common Value System - We share Moral Standards 2 Cor. 6:14
B. Common Eternal Goal - Seek First God’s Kingdom 1 Cor. 12:13
II. Christian Fellowship was Evidenced by a Concern for the Needy.
- Acts 2:44, Prov. 14:31, Prov. 19:17, Matt. 25:34-46, Prov. 28:27
- Their concern was completely voluntary based on love not coercion.
- The first church responded with compassion to the poor – this is Authentic Fellowship. This is love in Action.
- When we do show this concern for others we show it to Jesus
III. Christian Fellowship Was Enhanced by Participation in Small Groups
- Acts 2:46-47, Eccl. 4:9-10
- Two facets to the early Church. 1) They met together in the temple courts for worship. 2) They met in smaller groups in homes.
- The main 2 groups that provide the bulk of our fellowship is Midweek “D” groups and Sunday School Classes.
- “A burden shared is half a burden and a joy shared is a double joy.”
IV. Christian Fellowship Was Expanded by a Joint Outreach
- Acts 2:47, Acts 4:4, Acts 5:14, Acts 6:1
- The fellowship was inclusive & evangelistic - NOT cliquish.
- The fellowship of the church needs to be so contagious and so authentic that it attracts people.
God did not intend for us to live the Christian life as disconnected, isolated, independent islands. He created us to be interrelated – our lives are to touch one another deeply. The need for deep fellowship can be found ONLY through Jesus Christ.
God’s Infallible Word
Acts 2:42
What is truth? How do we determine truth? Is there one source of unchanging truth that we can depend on for all time? Is it completely trustworthy? The First Church “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching” (Acts 2:42) which we are blessed to have handed down to us in the form of the written Word of God. Today we focus on God’s Word, the Bible and its relevance to our everyday life.
I. The Bible Teaches Inerrancy
II. History, Science, & Prophesy Confirm Inerrancy
III. Jesus Affirmed Inerrancy
IV. The Church Has Believed in Inerrancy
V. God’s Character Demands Inerrancy
How important is the Bible, God’s Word, to you? Do you sincerely believe all of it to be THE truth from God? If so, how does it affect your attitude, your speech, and your actions? Do you read or listen to God’s Word faithfully to see what God has to say to you?
Let Us Be One
John 17:20-23
Let us be one so that the world can be won.
- Be Alert
- Think "We" instead of "Me"
- Keep your focus on Jesus
Our Response To Temptation
Numbers 22:1-40
Erwin Lutzer said, “Our response to temptation is an accurate barometer of our love for God.” – Is your love for God hot, warm, or cold? Oscar Wilde said, “I can resist anything but temptation.” Do you handle temptation or does it handle you? Let’s look at a man who faced temptations to do his own will instead of God’s will and learn some lessons from how he handled and didn’t handle temptation.
I. Temptations Faced
A. F_______________ (22:1-13)
- “Drum major instinct & we all want to play H_________”
B. P_________ P_________________ (22:15-17)
- We want to “fit in” - Don’t C_______! Matt. 26:69-75; Rom. 12:2
C. M_____________ (22:18-40)
- “No matter how many pleasures Satan offers you, his ultimate
intention is to R___ you. Your destruction is his highest priority.”
II. Promises Made
A. Temptation W_______ C________, but….
- “God never tempts any man. That is S________ business.”
James 1:13-14. Temptation is not a sin; it is a call to B_______.
- Two people going down the same path in the same direction
seldom B____ into one another. Which direction are you headed?
- Luke 4:13; Hebrews 2:18; 4:15-16
B. Temptation Can Be O_________________
- 1 Cor. 10:13 – You will never face a temptation that cannot be
O______________ with the help of God!
Two Keys to Overcome Temptation
1. F____________ (1 Cor. 6:18; 10:14; 1 Tim. 6:11; 2 Tim. 2:22;
Gen. 39:12; Rom. 16:19)
- “F_______ temptation and don’t leave a forwarding address!”
2. F____________ (Eph. 6:10-17; Ps. 119:11; Rom. 6:6-7,14;
Jude 1:24-25; Gal. 5:16; 1 John 4:4; James 4:7; Rom. 16:20)
- “God delights in our temptations and yet hates them. He delights
in them when they drive us to P_________; He hates them when
they drive us to D__________.” – Martin Luther
You can win the battles against Satan and withstand his vicious assaults, no matter what temptations he throws your way. You must remember however, it is God and He alone that can keep you from falling and it is His promises that will keep you strong during attacks.
What Everybody Hopes
1 Corinthians 15
Hope keeps us going. It makes the difference between just getting by and really living. What is your hope in? Down deep what do you really hope for? Today let’s explore together What Everyone Hopes:
I. Message For Life — First Importance (15:3-5)
A. Death - Heb. 9:22, 27-28; Eph. 2:12-13. This paid the price for our Salvation.
B. Burial - Matt. 27:62-66. This provided the backdrop for the event of all eternity.
C. Resurrection - 1 Cor. 15:5-8; 17-19. Without this event our faith is futile.
II. Meaning For Life — First-Fruits (15:20-26)
A. In Adam all Die. Rom. 3:23; 1 Cor. 15:21. Because of the garden we experience physical death & because of our sin we experience spiritual death, but…..
B. In Christ all are made Alive. 1 Cor. 15:22, 50-51; 1 Pet. 1:3-5 “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed!”
III. Motivation For Life — First Priority (15:54-58)
A. Stand firm. 1 Cor. 15:58; Heb. 10:23-25; 1 Pet. 3:15. How would God consider your devotion & prayer life, love, worship attendance, witness, giving, forgiveness, attitude?
B. Give fully. 1 Cor. 15:58. Concerning your talents & abilities - How much is enough to give to God?
Those outside of Christ see only a Hopeless End, but the Christian rejoices in an Endless Hope! May your hope reside in the fact that you are ready when Christ comes again to gather His children home! Are you ready?
Rowdy Kindness
LUKE 10:25 – 37
Kindness is underrated. We equate it with being nice or pleasant, as though it’s mainly about smiling, getting along, and not ruffling feathers. But in reality: Biblical Kindness Changes Everything! Let’s explore rowdy kindness today as Jesus teaches us about a “Good Samaritan.”
I. Remembering & Receiving God’s Kindness
- Luke 10:25-26; Jer. 31:3; Ps. 106:7; Acts 14:16-17; Eph. 2:6-7;
Titus 3:4-5; Rom. 2:4
- We need to receive God’s kindness for ourselves first and then it overflows to others.
II. Retelling & Reflecting God’s Kindness
- Luke 10:27; Is. 63:7; Ps. 71:7-8; Rom. 11:22-23; Eph. 4:32
- Kindness shown in Christ name has a way of softening the hearts of
others so they are more receptive to the message of Christ that we
need to share.
III. Reenergizing Our Kindness
- Luke 10:28; Gal. 5:21-22; Col. 3:12
- Kindness is described as a fruit that is to be on our tree and clothing that we wear!
- How do we Grow in Kindness? - 1. Pray for God’s help. 2. Count the
kindnesses shown to you. 3. Try to see people the way Jesus sees
them. 4. Look around for needs. 5. Soften your Heart
IV. Recipients Of Our Kindness
- Luke 10:29; Gen. 4:9; Luke 6:35; Matt. 7:12; 28:19-20
- Compassion and Kindness is to be expressed toward EVERYONE.
“The ground is level at the foot of the cross.”
Who is your “neighbor” that needs your rowdy kindness today? How will you continue to grow in Kindness?
Real Obedience
MATTHEW 21:28 – 32
When Jesus says, “Let him who has ears to hear, let him hear,” He means, “Do what I am telling you to do.” Today’s parable stresses the priority of obedient actions over merely stated intentions. Real Obedience to God is needed in our Christian walk with God.
I. Repentance That Leads To Real Obedience Is Desired
The Lost Prodigal Son Can Come Home
Luke 15:32 “he was lost and is found.’” Acts 26:20 “… repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds.” Acts 3:19 “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…” Ezk. 18:30
II. Real Obedience Is More Than Lip Service
“What we do is more important than what we say we will do.”
Matt. 15:8, Is. 29:13, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Matt. 23:3 “But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.” James 1:22 “Do what it says” Matt. 7:21
III. Real Obedience Brings Blessings
“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Lk. 11:28
A. God Can Do Great Things Through Us -Heb. 13:21; Eph. 4:12;
2 Tim. 3:17
B. It is Great For Us Acts 5:32; Rom. 2:13; Eph. 6:1-3
C. It is Great For Others - Rom. 13:1-2; Deut. 5:16
D. We Avoid the Terrible Consequences of Not Obeying - 2 Thess. 1:8; 1 Sam. 31; Heb. 3:18-19; Rom. 6:23
IV. Love Drives Real Obedience
“Real Obedience is fueled by the experience of being Loved”
“We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
“Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.” John 14:23 “This is my command: Love each other.” John 15:9-10, 12-14, 17
“This is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands.” 2 Jn 1:6
We have a choice to really obey or disobey, to receive a blessing or a curse - just like the Israelites did when Moses said, “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse— the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God.” (Deut. 11:26-28)
Ravenous Prayer
Luke 11:5-10; 18:1-8; 1 Thess. 5:17
How is your prayer life? Could it use some tweaking, some improvement? Jesus told the story of the neighbor who was in need of bread for a visitor in Luke 11 to teach persistent in prayer. We also can gain some other insights into what God wants for us concerning our prayer life…
I. God Wants To Give Us Good Things
(“you have a friend” Luke 11:5)
- Martin Luther “Prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance, but laying hold of His willingness.”
- God listens attentively to us… 1 Pet. 3:12; God Cares for us … 1 Pet. 5:7; God Wants us not worry but to give us peace… Phil. 4:6-7; Matt. 6:31-34; God has the Power to help us… Jer. 32:17; Luke 1:37
II. God Wants Us To Pray Expectantly
(“you go to him” Luke 11:5)
- Mark 11:24; James 1:6-8; Heb. 11:1
III. God Wants Us To Pray Boldly
(“at midnight; shameless audacity” Luke 11:5,8)
- Heb. 4:16; 8:15; James 5:17; 1 Kings 18:36-39
IV. God Wants Us To Pray Sincerely
(“I have no food to offer him.’” Luke 11:6)
A. Pray abiding in & living for Jesus - John 15:7; Psalm 66:18;
Is. 59:2; 1 Thess. 5:17; Ps. 141:2; Rev. 8:4
B. Pray seeking Jesus’ will & purposes - 1 John 5:14-15; James 4:3
V. God Wants Us to Pray Persistently
(“shameless audacity, ask, seek, knock” Luke 11:8-10)
- This is not one act, but a series of “acts”.
- Luke 18:1-8; Eph. 3:20; Rom. 12:12; Ps. 88:1; Col. 4:2
Jesus says, “However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18: 8) Will Jesus find faith in our home, in our personal prayer time, in our influence at work or school, and in our Church? Will we be persistent in prayer… asking, seeking, and knocking?
Radical Forgiveness
Matthew 18:21-35
“Peter came to Jesus and asked Him, ‘Lord how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matt. 18:21-22) Grace doesn’t keep count. “Love keeps no record of wrongs.” (1 Cor. 13:5) Jesus knew that failing to forgive is a major issue with us, so it’s why Jesus tells this story with some lessons we best learn…
I. We Owe A Debt We Cannot Pay (vs. 23-26)
A. We All Have A Massive Debt– Rom. 3:23,10; Is. 64:6; 6:5;
1 Tim. 1:16
B. We Deserve Death - Romans 6:23; 5:12
II. God Forgave Our Debt That He Did Not Owe (vs. 27)
Rom. 6:23; 7:24-25; 1 Pet 2:24; 2 Cor. 5:21; Lk 7:40-48; 1 Tim. 1:15-16
III. We Are To Forgive Debts Others Owe To Us (vs. 21-22, 28-35)
A. What the Bondage of Bitterness Brings…
Jam. 2:12-13; Matt. 18:35; 6:14-15; Heb. 12:15; Eph. 5:26-27
1. Physically -
2. Spiritually -
B. What the Freedom of Forgiveness Brings…
Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13; Mark 11:25; Matt. 6:12-15; 5:7
C. What I Can Do Practically to Forgive…
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew.6:14-15) When we learn to forgive others who’ve hurt us we become like our Father. God asks us to actively seek to forgive those who’ve hurt us so we can become like HIM.
Redunkulous Faith
Matthew 13:1-23; Luke 8:5-15
“Without faith it is impossible to please God.” (Heb. 11:6) Spiritual Faith is believing and trusting that God and His Words are true. Our Christian Faith is the result of hearing God’s teaching. (Rom. 10:17) Does God still speak today? If so, how are we listening? Jesus speaks to this subject in what is known as the parable of the sower…
I. The SOWER - Who do we listen to?
Luke 19:10; 2 Pet. 3:9; 1 Tim. 2:3-4; John 3:16-18
II. The SEED - What do we listen to?
Lk. 8:11; Acts 8:11; Col. 1:13-14; Heb. 4:12; Acts 11:14
III. The SOIL - How do we listen?
A. A SURFACE Heart – No RECEPTION – (Voice of Satan)
John 10:10; 1 Pet. 5:8; Heb. 4:7; 3:15
B. A SHALLOW Heart – No ROOT (Voice of Self)
1 Cor. 6:19; Eph. 1:13-14; Gal. 5:17
C. A STRANGLED Heart – No ROOM (Voice of Society)
Luke 8:14; Titus 3:3; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 4:3-4; Matt. 24:12
D. A SURRENDERED Heart – No RESISTANCE (Voice of the
Savior)
Acts 2:41; 4:4; Mark 4:24; Luke 11:28; 2 Tim. 2:15;
1 Tim. 4:7; 1 John 4:6
Are we quick to listen to God? (James 1:19) Are we listening to other voices instead? (Rom. 12:1-2) Are we growing in our faith and bearing fruit because we have listened? (John 15:5)
Run Your Race
Hebrews 11:33
“…Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1) Running the Christian race in such a way that we can say with Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7) is what each of us should desire. Let’s look today at some pointers from some of God’s heroes of the faith who made this happen….
I. Step Up! - (David)
“Who through faith conquered kingdoms” Heb. 11:33
1 Sam. 17:34-36; 2 Sam. 5:17-25; 8:1-2; 12:26; 2 Thess. 1:3; Col. 1:10; 2 Pet. 3:18
II. Follow Through! – (Samuel)
“Administered justice” Heb. 11:33
Isaiah 30:18; Psalm 89:14; 1 Pet. 1:16; 1 Sam. 8:1-9; Gal. 6:7-9
III. Show Up! – (Samson)
“Shut the mouths of lions” Heb. 11:33
Judges 14:5-6; Eccl. 3:1; Rom. 8:29; Col. 3:1-3
IV. Look Up! – (Gideon)
“Gained what was promised” Heb. 11:33
Judges 6 & 7; Heb. 11:13, 39; 12:1-3; 13:6; Col. 1:17-18; 2:10-15; Heb. 10:19
Let’s be Christians who don’t give up and who finish well so that we may gain the victors’ crown! “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (1 Cor. 9:25)
Obstacle Course
Hebrews 11:23-29; 12:1-2
Do you face obstacles to your faith? The faith heroes faced significant & surprising obstacles. Moses was commended for how he overcame his obstacles in Hebrews 11 – let’s learn from his faith, His parents’ faith, & His people’s faith…
I. Obstacles of Fear (Ladder) - Trust God’s Promises (vs. 23)
- Ex. 1:11,13, 22; Is. 41:10; Ps. 121:7-8; 32:7; 2 Thess. 3:3; Nah. 1:7
II. Obstacles of Disorientation (Cones) - Trust God’s Pleasure & Purposes (vs. 24-26)
- 2 Tim. 4:7-8; Ps. 16:11; Eccl. 2:1; 5:10
III. Obstacles of Opposition (People) - Trust God’s Power (vs. 27)
- Jer. 32:27; Ps. 23:5, 9:3; Rom. 8:31; 1 Jn 5:14; Jer. 29:12; Jam 5:16
IV. Obstacles of Duration (Egg Crawl) - Trust God’s Persistence (vs. 27)
- Heb. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 1:7-9; 2 Tim. 1:7; Eph. 6:10; Gal. 6:9; Phil. 4:13
V. Obstacles of Complexity (Steps) - Trust God’s Plan (vs. 28)
- Rom. 8:28; Jer. 29:11; Prov. 3:5-6
VI. Obstacles of Surprise (Silly String) - Trust God’s Passion (vs. 29)
- Ex. 15:1-2; Isa. 53:3; Jn. 3:16; 1 Cor. 13:7; Ps. 103:4
Hebrews 12:1 invites us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” We all face obstacles in our spiritual race and at some point the challenge of running our race comes down to whether we will give up or keep going. Trust God – He will carry us onto victory!!!
Throw Off the Weight (pt. I - III)
“Let us throw off everything that hinders & the sin that so easily entangles” (Heb. 12:1). Let’s expose the Devil’s lies & see how to combat them… And in turn throw off what hinders our spiritual race!
I. “What If” Lies - Fear Focused Feelings
1 Peter 5:6-7 Transfer the weight to Jesus. He can handle it and He Cares! Ps. 56:8 Our Worry Relates to:
A. The Unknown Matt. 6:34
B. The Unlikely Eccl. 1:18
C. The Uncontrollable Phil. 4:6-7 Pride Makes Me…
II. Trying to Live a Lie - Fake Fiendish Faith
Matt. 3:4; 23:4-5; 11:28-30; Gal. 2:19-21
Because We Can Never Measure Up Alone:
A. We Will Grow Frustrated
B. We Will Feel Exhausted
C. We Will Fake Until We Can’t Fake Anymore
D. We Will End Up Conceited or Defeated
III. Believing Lies - Following Filthy Falsehoods
A. The Devil Deals In Lies - John 10:10; 2 Cor. 2:11; 2 Cor. 11:3
B. Jesus is Truth - John 14:6; 8:32
C. Common Satanic Lies: 1) You Don’t Have What it Takes - 2 Pet. 1:3; 2 Cor. 12:9; Phil. 4:13; 2) You Can Fix it Yourself - Heb. 4:14-16;
3) You Deserve to be Happy - Ps. 37:4; 32:11; 144:15; Phil. 4:4; Matt. 20:28; Neh. 8:10
IV. Living a Lie – Faithless Fatal Failures
A. Continual Sin Brings Guilt, Shame, Fatigue, Separation, & Apathy
B. Jesus Brings Freedom
C. Will We Believe Jesus?
Heb. 12:4; Ps. 32:3-4; Heb. 10:1-4, 22; Rom. 3:23-24; 2 Cor. 5:21
What weight is slowing you down and could possibly cause you to give up? What bag of lies has Satan sold you? His deception has been exposed today - Transfer your weight to: The Way, The Truth, The Life!
Faith Hall of Fame – Victim or Victor?
The pain and injustice of this world can feel overwhelming. But don’t give up! Hebrews 11 reminds us that we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses – a great “Faith Hall of Fame.” Heb. 11:35-38 speaks of unnamed heroes that encourage us. If they could find the faith to keep believing and keep going, then we can make it through what we’re going through. Their tough love testimony may just be what we need to hear today if we have a victim mentality. Are You a Victim or a Victor?
I. Pity Party or Praise Party?
- - As a general rule - Do I Complain about Everything or Count My Blessings? People with a victim mentality tend to whine.
- Phil. 4:8; Ps. 34:1; 71:8; 113:3; Heb. 11:27; Num. 11:1-2; Heb. 13:15
II. Find Fault or Find Faith Examples?
- As a general rule - Do I Criticize Others & God or Consider Others’ Godly Model & Sacrifice? People with a victim mentality tend to blame.
- Heb. 11:30-31; Joshua 6; James 5:9-11; 1 Cor. 10:10-11
III. Pessimistic Perspective or Positive Perspective?
- As a general rule - Do I Choose Cynicism or Opt for Optimism? People with a victim mentality tend to be negative.
- Eph. 1:18-20; 2 Cor. 12:9-10; Rom. 8:28-37
Perhaps what happened to you was unfair & unjust; and what you’re going through seems never ending and harsh. But remember whose you are and that you can choose how you react to the circumstances around you. We are only passing through – heading to victory row in Christ Jesus!
Keep Believing
Oftentimes the pieces in our lives don’t fit neatly together. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” (Heb. 11:1–2) These “ancients”, these “cloud of witnesses” have real words of power to speak into our struggles. Get ready to take a stroll through the Hall of Fame and learn needed messages that we all need to persevere and not give up!
I. Faith is Seeing & Acting on the Big Picture
- Faith is believing that God has a purpose, even when there seems to be no reason. Heb. 11:4; Gen. 12:8 – God Asks Abraham to Move
- There are no stories of faith that are risk-free - Faith is always sending us somewhere!
- Ask yourself: Am I following God in a way that requires faith? Do I do anything at all in my life that requires courage and confidence? Don’t tell me you have faith – tell me a story!
- Faith that doesn’t quit means taking action and moving forward.
- James 2:14-18 “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead”
II. Faith Is Trusting Against All Odds
- Gen. 15:5-6; Rom. 4:18-21; Heb. 11:12 – God Promises Abraham A Son In His Old Age
- Faith that gives you the confidence to keep believing and the courage to keep going is not faith in life’s circumstances; it’s faith in God’s Character.
- Matt. 19:26; Heb. 11:6 - True faith believes when others say, “No way”
III. Faith is Willingness to Sacrifice All
- Gen. 22:1-19; Heb. 11:19 – God Asks Abraham to Sacrifice His Son
- Abraham holds on to God’s promise even when the story doesn’t seem to make sense. Gen. 22:5
- Where is the point at which you would abandon all hope? Abraham’s limit is undefined! If God is powerful enough to raise the dead, what can’t he do? Heb. 11:19
- “The LORD Will Provide” (Gen. 22:14) Will we trust Him to provide in our life with whatever, however, and whenever?
If the pieces of your life don’t seem as if they could possibly fit into a beautiful picture, Abraham has a message for you from the cloud: “Keep Believing – Don’t Give Up!”
Prayerful Pictures of the Baby’s Father
Matthew 6:9-13
1. His Paternity
Matthew 7:7-11
2. His Position
Ecclesiastes 5:2; Revelation 4:7-11
3. His Prestige
Daniel 2:37-45; Matthew 25:34
4. His Patience
2 Peter 3:9
5. His Power
Matthew 26:39
6. His Provision
7. His Pardoning
Matthew 18:25-35
8. His Preserving
2 Peter 2:9
9. His Protection
2 Timothy 4:18
10. His Praiseworthiness
“I Am” -Jesus
Various Verses in John
- I Am The Bread of Life
- I Am The Light of the World
- I Am The Door
- I Am The Good Shepherd
- I Am The Resurrection and the Life
- I Am The Way, and The Truth, and The Life
- I Am The True Vine
The Power of the Cross To Honor… Mary
“Honor your father and your mother…” Ex. 20:12 Let’s consider how Jesus honored Mary on several different occasions and how she honored God at the same occasions and let’s be determined to follow in their footsteps as we learn the value of Honor in our lives...
I. Mary Honored God With Jesus Birth AND God Honored Mary With Jesus Birth
A. Mary Honored God - Luke 1:28, 42-45; Prov. 21:21; Luke 1:38, 46-48;
Luke 2:19, 34-35 Mary herself sets the example for us, directing her
worship, adoration, and praise to God alone.
B. God Honored Mary - Luke 1:28, 47; Rom. 3:23; 6:23; Matt. 1:25;
13:55–56; Luke 11:27-28; Luke 1:46–55 However, nowhere in Scripture
does Jesus or anyone else direct any praise, glory, or adoration toward
Mary.
II. Mary Honored God During Jesus Life AND Jesus Honored Mary During His Life
A. Mary Honored Jesus - Luke 2:46-52; John 2:1–11; Mark 3:20–21, 31-35
Mary had faith in Jesus
B. Jesus Honored Mary – Luke 2:51; John 2; Mark 3 Jesus was obedient to
His parents.
III. Mary Honored God At Jesus Death AND Jesus Honored Mary At His Death
A. Mary Honored Jesus - John 19:25-27 Mary was where she needed to be.
B. Jesus Honored Mary - John 19:25-27; Lev. 19:32; James 1:27; Ex. 20:12;
Eph. 6:1-3 Jesus did not forget His earthly responsibilities.
The power of the Cross reminds us that we are to honor God in our recognition that the gift of life eternal and the very salvation of our souls come through Jesus Christ and Him alone. Mary and Jesus taught us much about honor throughout their lives… may we follow their example. (Acts 1:14, Rev. 4:11)
The Power of the Cross… To Embolden…Joseph and Nicodemus
John 19:38- 39; Mark 15:43
"There is no such thing as secret discipleship. Either your secrecy will destroy your discipleship, or your discipleship will destroy your secrecy." The Cross of Christ transformed Joseph & Nicodemus from secret disciples to bold witnesses. The power of the cross emboldens us
