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/ 

10/1/23 Looking Forward Expectantly
2 Peter 3:10-14
 
Expectations – they run the gambit from expecting warmer weather to expecting a baby. But there is one expectation that should remain at the forefront of every Christians’ mind. Do you have an Expectant Attitude when it comes to our Lord’s Return? Peter reminds us of this attitude and certain realizations concerning:
 
I. Our World’s D____________ (v. 10)

• We don’t know w______, but we know w_____ will happen
• Acts 1:7-11; Mark 13:32-33 – Only the F________ knows
• What God put together – He will now pull apart
• All our t_______ of importance will dissolve
• Does God get your T____, T_____, T_______ leftovers?

 
II. Our Important D_____________ (v. 11, 12, 14)

• V. 11 “manner” or “kind” means “F_______” – our home is?
• “Holy” means “set apart or separate” – 1 Pet. 1:15-16
• An iceberg teaches us…
• “Live Godly Lives” – a person devoted to p_________ God
• “To look forward” means “to wait e__________”
• Phil. 1:20-24; Phil. 3:20; 2 Thess. 3:11
• “Hasten” or “speed it’s coming” – How? Matt. 6:10, 24:14
• 1 Jn 2:28 Will we be confident & un________ before Him?

 
III. Our Final D____________ (v. 13)

• 1 Cor. 15:19 “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.”
• A new heaven & new earth – NO MORE… Rev. 21
• 1 Cor. 15:42-58 We shall be changed – New B_________

Will you look forward expectantly or will you be surprised?


9/24/23 Be Joyful
1 Kings 19; Philippians 4:4
 
This world can get us down, but the Christian’s personality should be characterized by joy & peace, not depression & turmoil. That's not an easy transformation to make, but with Christ's help, we can do it! 
 
I. A CASE OF DEPRESSION
- Several reasons why Elijah Should not have been Depressed:  He was a:       1) Godly  Prophet;  2) Powerful Miracle Worker;  3) Courageous Leader
- But Jezebel Came Along – 1 Kings 19:2
 
II. SOME CAUSES OF DEPRESSION
- Depression:  A feeling of sadness and dejection, accompanied by a gloomy mindset – lasting longer than the circumstances responsible for it warrant.
- Four Degrees or Stages of Depression: 1) Dejection; 2) Discouragement; 3) Despondency; 4) Despair
4 Categories:
 A. Temperamental - We are "wired" differently - Some are more susceptible
 B. Circumstantial – A Great Victory; A Significant Failure; Loneliness –         
  Ps.  102:6-7; Heb. 3:13
 C. Psychological – Repressed Anger; Fear – 1 Kings 19:3; “Stinking Thinking”
 D. Physical – Chemical Imbalance; Drugs; Lack of Exervise; Diet; Physical Exhaustion
- Do we want to get well? (John 5:6) Drs. Minirth & Meier book title: “Happiness Is a Choice.”   We can get well through Jesus! (Phil. 4:13)
 
III. GOD'S CURE FOR DEPRESSION
- God "comforts the downcast" (2 Corinthians 7:6)
God’s 4 Prescriptions For Elijah’s Depression:
 A. Recuperation - (1 Kings 19:5-6) 1) Know When To Stop Working – Prov. 10:4; Ps. 46:10; Learn to Relax;  Jews Sabbath; Holidays; Jesus Rested;  2) Eat Right & Exercise – it is difficult to overcome depression without it
 B. Revelation – (1 Kings 19:11-13) Get your eyes off your problems & onto God.  He is bigger than your problems!  1) Read the Bible & Pray - Ps. 143:7-8; Rom. 8:26;  2) Go To Church - Ps. 100:2,4; Eph. 5:19; Heb. 10:25
 C. Responsibility – (1 Kings 19:13-16)  Pray for a new Challenge
 D. Relationships – (1 Kings 19:14-18) 1) Make Some New Friends  – Eccl. 4:9-10; 2) Focus on Serving Others – Phil 2:3-4
 
Jesus knows that joy has nothing to do with our circumstances & everything to do with our attitude. (John 15:11) We never lose the power to choose our own attitude! We know the end of the story – we are victorious through Jesus so we can "rejoice in the Lord always." (Philippians 4:4)


9/17/23 Be Forgiving
Few actions can transform your personality as quickly & dramatically as the decision to release the bitterness you harbor in your heart & forgive someone who has wronged you.
I. WHAT WE HAVE RECEIVED
A. Forgiveness for Sins of Commission – David, Judas
B. Forgiveness for Sins of Omission - James 4:17
C. Forgiveness for Sins of Stumbling - James 2:10
D. Forgiveness for Sins of Imagination - Genesis 6:5; Matt. 5:21- 22, 27-28; Psalm 94:11; All Sin Is Missing the Mark! - Matthew 5:48
II. WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR US
A. Paid Our Tremendous Debt - Through Jesus - John 3:16; 2 Cor. 5:21; Matt. 27:46; ls. 53:6; John 19:30; Rom 5:6-9 - white as snow! B. Given Us Grace To Cover Past, Present, & Future Sins - Rom. 6:23; 1 John 1:8-9 - God's justice is NOT punishment for Christians
III. WHAT GOD EXECTS OF US
A. To Forgive Others – People put trash in our baskets!
B. To Forgive Others As He Has Forgiven Us - Matt. 6:12,14-15; Col 3:13 A spirit of submission to Christ cannot reside in the same place as a spirit of bitterness. Will you decide to forgive?
IV. WHAT FORGIVENESS IS & IS NOT
A. It Is A Process - 4 stages we face on our way to forgiveness:
1. Hurt; 2. Anger – Eph. 4:26-27; 3. Healing; 4. Restoration
B. It Is Not An Endorsement of the Behavior
C. It Is Not An Exemption from Judgment - Romans 12:19
D. It Is Not Automatically A Restoration of Trust – it takes time!
V. WHAT FORGIVENESS REQUIRES
A. Choosing to Forgive - Choose to forgive regardless of your feelings because it's the right thing to do. It is a matter of the Will.
B. Praying- “Help me to remember how much You have forgiven me.” C. Giving Yourself Some Time - Isaiah 40:31
D. Seeking Wise Christian Counsel – Prov. 27:17
E. Lovingly Confronting the Issue If Necessary – Gal. 6:1
F. Expressing Kindness to the One Who Offended You–Rom12:20
VI. WHAT FORGIVENESS DOES
A. Sets Us Free - from the bonds of Bitterness & Revenge
B. Gives Us Victory – Luke 6:27-29
Let Jesus transform your bitterness into forgiveness & set you free. It begins on your knees, when you pray, "Father, forgive me my debts as I forgive...." Let God’s love flow through you as you forgive.


​9/3/23 Be Content
Luke 12:22-34
How would you like to be transformed from a person who worries into a person of peace? Jesus Christ really does want to be the Lord of your anxieties. He wants you to cast all your burdens on him and allow him to carry the load for you. Why not let Him today?

I. DEFINE THE DIFFICULTY OF WORRY
- Worry focuses on improbable difficulties and produces inaction.
- Concern focuses on probable difficulties and produces action.
- Often the Way to Cure Our Worry is to Take Some Action.
- Worry Focuses on those Things You Can't Control or Change.
II. DENOTE THE DANGER OF WORRY
A. Worry Ruins Your Personality
- Makes you: somber, critical, negative, with-drawn, and inattentive.
B. Worry Wastes Time and Energy
- Corrie ten Boom said, "Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows; it empties today of its strength."
C. Worry Erodes Your Health - Luke 12:25
- Worry contributes to premature aging.
D. Worry Harms Your Witness - People are NOT interested in your God who is so weak He can’t help you with your concerns and cares.
E. Worry Distorts Your Judgment
F. Worry Insults God - Luke 12:28- Worry basically calls God a Liar.

III. DETERMINE THE DEFEAT OF WORRY
A. Change Your Focus
- When you have your heart set on this world, you're going to worry.
- Luke 12:32; "Seek first his kingdom…” Matthew 6:33
B. Become a Christian - Matt 11:28-30
- Jesus is the only one truly qualified to carry all our worries.
C. Worship God Regularly
- It's a regular reminder that God is bigger than your problems.
D. Trust the Providence of God - Luke 12:24
E. Face Reality – John 16:33; Phil. 4:12-13; 1 Cor. 10:13; Ps. 23:1&4
F. Review God's Promises – Deut. 31:6; Ps 55:22; John 15:7; Phil 4:19; James 4:8; Heb. 13:5-6; Psalm 121:3-5
G. Lay Up Treasures in Heaven - Luke 12:33-34
H. Live One Day at a Time - Matt 6:34; Is. 26:3; Phil 4:6-7

No one likes being a worrier. Why not let Jesus help you overcome this negative personality trait and become a person of peace today?


8/27/2034 "Be Thankful"
Grumblers drain us of our energy, but a word of thanksgiving lifts us up. Have you developed a habit of complaining? Your circumstances may or may not change, but your attitude can. Jesus Christ is ready to begin changing your personality today, but you have to be honest and open yourself up to his transforming power.

I. Why Do We Gripe?
- Luke 17:12-19 – Only One Returned Thanks
- Leprosy was the first-century equivalent of AIDS.
- Nine Possible Reasons for Not Returning Thanks….
A. Fortunate Upbringing…Unrealistic Expectations About Life
B. Affluent Experiences… Prov. 30:8-9 The more you have…
C. Negative Companions... Prov.13:20… "Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character."' (1 Cor. 15:33)
D. Frequent Comparisons… President Theodore Roosevelt - “Comparison is the thief of Joy.” (2 Cor. 10:12)

II. How Do We Become Grateful
- Gratitude is "The mother of all Virtues." - G. K. Chesterton
- On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you right now?
- Your Circumstances may or may not change, but your Attitude can change with Jesus’ Transforming Power.
Spiritual Adjustments Needed:
A. Confess the Habit of Griping and Complaining Num. 11:4-5, 33; 1 Cor. 10:10; Phil. 2: 14-15
B. Tap Into Jesus’ Power- Pray. James 4:2; Ps 73:26; 118:14;1 John 4:4; Matt. 26:41 God is our strength to change!
C. Start Counting Your Blessings & Enjoy Them - 1 Thess. 2:13; 1 Tim 6:17 Not wrong to be wealthy but wrong to be stingy!
D. Remember Regularly That Everything You Have Is God's God has loaned us things – we are Stewards Ps. 24:1; James 1:17
E. Serve the Less Fortunate - Luke 11:41
F. Choose Your Company Carefully Prov. 12:26
G. Be Accountable to Someone - James 5:16 How we find strength.
H. Express Thanks Frequently to God - "Pray Continually. Give thanks in all circumstances..." 1 Thess. 5:17-18

What will it be?... A life of gratefulness & thankfulness or a life of complaining and griping? The choice really is yours! Are you willing to make the effort to adjust your attitude?


8/20/23 "Do We Believe That Changing Our Mind Changes Our Life?"

Do We Believe That Changing Our Mind Changes Our Life?
The battle for our life is fought and won in our mind! God wants us to take control of our mind, in Jesus’ name, through the power of the Holy Spirit. We can think our way into changing our life for good!

I. What We Desire – Changed Mind
- Rom. 8:6- a new way of seeing ourselves & a new way of thinking
- Winning the mind battle means replacing old, harmful thoughts
with new life-giving thoughts. Victory begins in the mind
- Rom. 12:2; Gal. 6:7 - Cultivate, weed, and water the garden of our
mind. We will reap what we sow!

II. Where We Are At – Evaluation
A. Are We Conforming or Transforming? Rom. 12:2.
B. What is Our Heart Set On? Col. 3:1-2,5
C. What do We Delight in? Psalm 1:1-2
D. Who is Our Friend? James 4:4
​E. What Are We Walking in? 1 Jn 1:5-7. Condemnation is a Path to Future Failure. Conviction is a Highway to Real Change!

III. How We Get There – Reasons We Change
A. We Change When We Hurt Enough That We Have To
- Acts 9:4; Is. 6:8; Alfred Nobel; A better response to pain is to change so we are no longer hurt by it. That is our hope.
B. We Change When We Learn Enough That We Want To
C. We Change When We See Enough That We Are Inspired To
- Heb. 12:2; Ps. 34:8; 119:103 - Let The Word take root in our life with Scriptures that change our lives: Ps. 139:14; Jer. 29:11; Eph. 2:10; 2 Cor. 5:17; 1 Cor. 10:31; Is. 43:7
D. We Change When We Receive Enough That We Are Able To
- God is the power source - Phil. 4:13; Eph. 3:20; Matt. 19:26; 7:7-8
- God’s power, promises, & provision for change are real - Eph. 6:13; 1 Cor. 10:13; 1 John 4:4

The length of time we spend In God’s Word, In Prayer, In Worship, and In Time with God and His People determines how deeply we get into God and God gets into us. This determines whether our mind and our life is changed!



8/13/23 How Can Worship Become Our Weapon?

Today we discuss an unlikely weapon in our fight against the spiritual forces of evil. We win the battle for our mind by focusing firmly on Jesus and by worshipping Him. How do we get to know Him better so we can Worship Him in a closer way?

I. By a Lingering Connection Rather Than Busyness
- Psalm 46:10; Luke 10:39-42; Phil. 4:6–7
- We must be intentional about making time to linger with Jesus.
- Matthew Henry expands on Ps. 34:8 & 1 Pet. 2:3 -“Let God’s
goodness be rolled under the tongue as a sweet morsel.”
- Is. 55:6; Ps. 27:8 - Are we seeking God?

II. By an Intimate Relationship Rather Than Information Only
- There is a great difference between knowing a lot about something and truly experiencing something up close.
- Holy Spirit teaches and reminds us – John 14:26
- God’s Word is powerful; It needs to be read, studied, memorized, & Applied - Heb. 4:12; Ps. 119:11; Phil. 4:9
- Jesus Showed Us God – We are to Focus on Him and Follow His Example – John 1:14; 14:9; Heb. 12:2; 1 Jn. 2:6

III. By a Focus on God’s Attributes Rather Than a Focus on Blessings & Requests Only
- A. W. Tozer - “An attribute of God is whatever God has in any way revealed as being true of Himself.”
- God is Love – 1 John 4:8; John 3:16; God is Holy – Is. 6:3; God is Glorious – Ex. 15:11; God is approachable & accessible – Matt. 27:51, Heb. 10:19-20; God is Faithful, Just & Perfect – Deut. 32:4; God is Gracious – Ex. 34:6

When we set our sights on Jesus and worship of Him – our countenance changes. (Psalm 34:5; Ex. 34:29) We were created to worship and bring God glory (Is. 43:7) and it’s in fulfilling our purpose that we find our weapon to win the battle for our mind.


8/6/2023 Will We Let Grace Silence Shame?

There are sins that “so easily entangle” (Heb. 12:1-2) us. If we sin there is great hope because of God’s great grace. When we confess & repent God wipes out our sins. “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses & renounces them finds mercy.” Prov. 28:13

I. Grace Shouts - We Are Not Our Shame
- Shame is the Feeling of being defined by our sin & shortcomings
- Gen. 2:25; 3:15 - Shame imprisons us to the past. We try to hide from God behind denial
- Thanks to the work of Jesus on the cross, we can live free from shame – Rom. 10:11

II. Grace Shouts - We Are Not Our Guilt
- Is. 6:5 – Isaiah saw the gap between who he was & who God is – Unclean, Guilty, & Impure!
- Through Christ our sins are atoned for & our guilt is removed. – John 1:29; 2 Cor. 5:21
- 1 John 1:9 - Our act of admitting guilt opens a doorway called grace. When we confess, we admit that we are responsible for our sin.
- Satan will do all he can to keep us on a guilt trip indefinitely. Our guilt is never removed when we hide.

III. Grace Shouts - We Are Not Our Failure
- Grace Redefines us - from "failure" to "family." The Enemy wants to define us by our scars. Jesus wants to define us by His scars.
- 1 John 3:1 - Our new identity: we are children of God.
- Matt. 26:33; Luke 22:33-34 - We all get into those times & places where we are pressured and we fail.
- Jesus calls to us: “Come have breakfast with me;” “Draw near to me;” & “There is no condemnation” – John 21:12; James 4:8; Rom 8:1
- “Feed my sheep” - John 21:17; Jesus calls us back to work.
- Ps 34:5 - If we are looking to the Lord, we are radiant not a reject!

Our new identity springs from the realization that Jesus forgives us. He says we are a son or daughter of God! Jesus says we're forgiven if we have become Christians! Let God’s grace silence your guilt, shame, and failure today!


7.30.2023 - "Is Taking Every Thought Captive a Priority?"
Is Taking Every Thought Captive A Priority?

If Satan can win the battle for our mind, he can win the battle for our life! However, through Christ, we can move to a place of victory in our life! So let’s breakdown a Biblical Battle Plan for our mind so that we can, with God’s Divine help, win the battle for our minds!

I. Scouting Report – Examine Our Thoughts – Holy Spirit
- Identify the sinful thoughts & attitudes that have been given free rein to set up a beachhead in our mind - 2 Cor. 13:5; Num. 13:31,33
- Has the enemy set up camp, dug in his defenses, planted a mine field in our mind with: Doubt, Defeatism, Despondency, fear, worry, hatred, lust, pride, feelings of worthlessness, feelings of confusion
- “As he thinks in his heart, so is he" - Prov. 23:7
- Remember to step through the door into our new identity in Christ

II. Taking Prisoners – Restrain Evil Thoughts – Prayer
- “Nikos” – Our “Victory” comes from Christ’s Conquest over sin and death! - 1 Cor. 15:57; John 19:30
- THE WAR IS OVER; THE BATTLES ARE NOT!
- 2 Cor. 10:3-5; Eph. 6:1-18; Col. 3:12 – If we don’t take our thoughts captive and make them obedient to Christ, the failure lies with us!
- The power to handcuff incompatible thoughts comes from Jesus! – Pray “In Jesus Name” – Matt. 28:18; Col. 3:17; Luke 22:42

III. Advancing Forward – Unleash Godly Thoughts - Bible
- “March On” - Fill Our Minds With God’s Truth – “Memorize Scripture” – Ps. 119:11, 32; 19:7; Josh. 1:8; Col. 3:16; Heb. 4:12; John 15:7;
​Deut. 11:18-20
- The Battle Over Sin is Won Through “Hiding God’s Word in Our Hearts” – Load up on Scripture! - Ps. 119:11
- Our Example - Jesus Boldy Bombarded Satan By Quoting Scripture – Matt. 4:4,7,10
- We are to Offensively Battle By Deliberately & Continually Placing Helpful, Holy, Heavenly Thoughts in Our Minds - Phil. 4:8

Battle Plan: With the Spirit’s assistance, Inspect our thought life. With Jesus’ help, prayerfully claim victory over our negative, sinful thoughts. Fill our soul regularly with the ammunition of God’s Word.


7.23.2023 - "Have We Internalized Our Identity in Christ?"
Have We Internalized Our Identity In Christ?

Because Jesus has already won the victory over sin, we have access to this victory too. We are freed from sin's hold over us by living in our new identity. Sin, Temptation, and a Poor thought life don’t need to hold us down. The power to live freely comes from our close association with Christ and His victory. What does it mean to be associated with Christ and His victory?

I. Open The Door – Jesus’ Invitation
A. He is THE Entryway - John 10:7-11
B. It is for Everyone - Matt. 7:8; 2 Pet. 2:9
C. But it is Exclusive - John 14:6; Lk 13:23-28; Matt. 7:13-14
D. And it is Eternal – Matt. 11:28; Rev. 3:20; Jn 7:38; 3:16

II. Go Through The Door – Our Identification In Christ
A. We Are A New Creation - 2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 3:27;Col. 3:2-3
B. We Have A New Victory – Eph. 2:6; 1 Cor. 15:57; 1 Jn 5:4;
Rom. 8:37; Phil. 3:10; 1 Cor. 10:13
C. We Have Been Given New Names – Eph. 2:8-9;
2 Cor. 5:17; Jer. 17:9; Ezek. 36:26; Gal. 2:20; Rom. 6:4;
Eph. 2:19; 1 Pet. 2:9-11; 1 John 3:1

III. Close The Door – Devil’s Temptations
A. We Don’t Excuse Sin - 1 Tim. 1:15; Rom. 5:1-2; 6:4
B. We Build Safe-Guards - Rom. 6:17-18; 1 Cor. 10:13; Rom. 13:14
C. We Fix Our Eyes On Jesus - Heb. 12:1-2; Gen. 3:8; Ps. 23

Has God ever been more to you than a command not to sin? Is God larger to you than a ticket to heaven when you die? Do you actually KNOW God? Do you walk with Him? Are you identified as His Child today with victory over sin?


7.16.2023 - "Do We Recognize Satan's Sinful Schemes

Do We Recognize Satan’s Sinful Schemes?

It's time we got serious about spiritual victory over sin. We need to
ask, “How is the enemy, the devil coming against me? What strategy
is he using? What adjustments can be made?” It's helpful for us to
be aware of how Satan’s spiral of sin works so we can combat the
Enemy's schemes. (2 Cor. 2:11)

I. Unchecked Thoughts - Don’t Chase the Devil’s Lures
- James 1:13-15; 1 John 4:4; Ezek. 28:12-17; Gen. 3:1
- Sin is a mirage, always overpromising and underdelivering!
- The Enemy works in our lives by Luring and Lying!
II. Entertained Thoughts – Don’t Bite the Devil’s Bait
- Matt. 4; 5:21-22, 27-28; Rom. 12:2
- Harmful actions always begin with harmful thoughts
- Prov. 13:12-13; Heb. 11:25 - Sin usually feels good for a moment –
but leads to harm, separation, disappointment, & shame.
III. Accusing Thoughts – Don’t Let the Devil Set The Hook
- Rev. 12:10 - If the Devil can accuse you, he can condemn you. And
if he can condemn you, he can destroy you.
- The Enemy will condemn you, but God will convict you
- John 16:8 - God’s Word and the Holy Spirit are the instruments God
uses to restore us back to Him.
IV. Surrendered Thoughts – Let Jesus Create the Change In Us
- The big problem with rededications is that they can reflect our
efforts to clean up our own lives.
- We need to pray, “I'm going to open myself up to the hard work of
having You create the change in my life…I surrender my life-and this
particular problem to you.”
- Rev. 2:4-5; 1 Cor. 10:13 - God Will Provide A Way Out
​
We can live lives of victory. We can win the battle for our minds with
God’s help.


7.9.2023 - "Are We Listening to Satan's Lies?"

Are We Listening To Satan’s Lies?
It’s strategic to be able to spot the enemy's lies - NOT so we can focus
on the lies, but so we can AVOID them and FIX OUR GAZE back toward
the Good Shepherd. When we are able to spot the following lies that
are coming our direction, we can overcome them & win the battle for
our mind with truth in Jesus' name. Don’t listen to these lies of Satan…

I. Lie One: Your Grass Isn’t That Green - Look at Theirs!
- Theodore Roosevelt - “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
- The Devil mixes these: Jealousy, Coveting, “Woe is me,” and God is
blessing that person more and withholding from me!
- John 10:10; Prov. 14:30; Psalm 23:1; Heb. 13:5
II. Lie Two: You Are Worthless – You’ll Never Measure Up!
- “Humility is not thinking less of yourself; humility is thinking of
yourself less!”
- The "not enough" anthem was composed in the pit of hell. It's
Crippling. Debilitating. Paralyzing. Suffocating.
- Gen. 1:27; Ps. 139:14; 1 John 3:1; Rom. 5:8; John 10:11
III. Lie Three: You Should Be Afraid – Everyone Is Against You!
- We weren't made to hate ourselves. We were made to know that
we're loved. Stop playing the “Victim Card”
- God, through His Word, wants to protect each of us from lies and
deceit.
- Ps. 147:5; Matt. 19:26; Ps. 23:5; Rom. 8:31
IV. Lie Four: You Are Doomed – There Is No Way Out
- God hasn't promised to deliver us FROM the trouble but to see us
THROUGH it!!
- May our Spiritual eyes of faith be opened: "Don’t be afraid…Those
who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
- Psalm 23:4; 77:19; 2 Cor. 13:5; Acts 2:38-39; 2 Kings 6:10-17

Jesus’ words are the words of eternal life (John 6:68). His voice of truth
thunders from heaven to drown out Satan’s lies. Are we listening or
are we allowing Satan to dine with us and soaking in his lies?


7.2.2023 - "Are We Inviting Satan to Dinner?"
Are We Inviting Satan To Dinner?

The Enemy only needs the tiniest crack. Just like that, the Devil is sitting at your table, beginning to win the battle for your mind. How do we prevent this? How do we get him up from our table if he is already seated? Let’s put together a battle plan today. Let’s expose his war strategy so it is no surprise to us. Let’s make our own battle plan and how to carry it out!

I. Resist Giving Him Permission To Dine
We often Accept it as Normal and his False Narrative – Rom. 8:10-12; Ps. 23:4; Eph. 4:27

II. Recognize the Way He Arrives
Sometimes Quietly, Empathetic, Always Disguised, Lies - 2 Cor. 11:14; John 8:44

III. Ready Yourself For His “Pick up” Lines
Movies, Music, Conversations, Memes, Natural Desires, Scripture out of context – Matt. 4; Luke 4; 1 John 2:26; Gen. 3:6

IV. Remember the Purpose of His Arrival
Kill, Steal, & Destroy – Jn 10:10; 8:44; 2 Tim. 2:26; 1 Pet. 5:8

V. Reject his Entrance By The Power of Jesus
- As a Child of the King of Kings, and Possessor of the Holy Spirit & Truth We can Refuse Satan’s Words, Thoughts, and Influence – 1 John 4:4; John 14:6; Eph. 5:18-20
- Scripture, Prayer, Singing - John 4:4,7,10; Matt. 26:41

Plan now for Satan’s arrival at your table! Be ready to protect your relationship with Jesus!

​

6.25.2023 - "How Is Your Faith in the Good Shepherd?"
How Is Your Faith In The Good Shepherd?

To fight the good fight of faith and win the battle for our minds we must make sure our faith is deep - our foundations sure! The Psalmist describes the king of Faith we need in Psalm 23…

I. “Even Though” Faith
- Ps. 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death”
- Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego - Daniel 3:17-18 “even if He does not - we will not serve your gods”
- Paul and Silas - Acts.16;16-40 “thrown into prison… praying and singing hymns to God”
- Habakkuk - Hab. 3:17-18 “Even though….. I will…”
“Even though _____________________ (you fill in the blank) Yet I will rejoice in the Lord… I will be joyful in God my Savior!”
- We Recognize the Situation, But We Rejoice In God Anyway!

II. “Lead Me” Faith
- Ps. 23:2 “He leads me beside still waters…”
- John 10:1-21; Heb. 13:8 Jesus is the Good Shepherd Forever
- 2 Pet. 2:19 "People are slaves to whatever has mastered them." - -
- What “leads” us? - Culture, Social Media, Friends, Ourself?
- Mark 1:17; 2:14; 8:34; 10:21; John 10:27 Sheep need Leadership!
- We Follow Jesus, Because He Is Our Good Shepherd!

III. “No Fear” Faith
- Ps. 23:4,5 “I will fear no evil, for You are with me…You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies”
- God is With Us Through Real Hardship! Rom. 8:31, 37-39
- God’s Table of Salvation Provides Peace Because of God’s Presence! Ex. 25:30; Is. 25:6; Luke 13:29
- We Can Have An Intimate Relationship (Dinner) With the King of Kings and Lord of Lords – Why Should We Fear? 1 Tim. 1:17; Rom. 11:33, 36; Job 26:14.

“…Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” (Rom. 10:17) Will we listen & follow Jesus so that we can grow in faith & guard our hearts and minds?


6.18.2023 "Leaving Boldly"
LEAVE BOLDLY
Part 5 of Series: Live Your DASH
1 Cor. 3:12-14
God has placed a deep desire within all of our hearts to live a life that matters. Every one of us have a desire to leave a lasting legacy. Every day of my life I’m building a legacy, and every moment of every day I get to choose what materials I’ll build with. I can build with temporary materials or I can build with eternal materials. And if I’m going to build a legacy, there are only 3 materials that I can build with.

ETERNAL MATERIALS THAT BUILD A LEGACY:
1. CONVICTIONS

• God’s Word Never Changes - Isa. 40:8
• Our Core Values are Rock Solid in a Shaky World.
• You don’t really believe something unless you Live it Out.
• “But if you just use My words in Bible studies & don’t work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach.” Matt. 7:26 (The Msg)

2. CHARACTER

• God has always had a plan and his plan is to make you more like Jesus Christ - Rom. 8:29
• God’s Character Building Tools:

• Problems
• Pressures
• People

3. COMMUNITY

• Jesus says to us, “You’re making the Christian life too complicated. It’s really pretty simple. It’s a relationship with Me and a relationship with Others.” Luke 10:40-42; Matt. 22:37-39

Everything you own is a sand castle. It’s all coming down. There are only three things that are going to last. What kind of legacy will you leave behind?
​

6.11.2023 "Loving Completely"
“Love Completely”
Live Your DASH
1 Corinthians 1:18

We can’t do it on our own - we need God’s power to love completely. We all know it can be a steep climb from where we are to where we actually want to be in our relationships. Whether it’s a business partnership, a friendship, or a marriage, there are three mountains we’ve got to climb in order to love the people in our lives:

• The Mountain of MISUNDERSTANDING
• The Mountain of “ME FIRST”
• The Mountain of MISTAKES

The Bible reveals strategies for keeping relational mountains small and manageable:

I. The Rope Of ACCEPTANCE

• Romans 15:5-7 Stop trying to “CHANGE me” and start “CHERISH__ me”
• Genesis 2:25 When we Walk with God all our RELATIONSHIPS will be better.

II. Gain Traction With LOVING ACTION
Three “C’s” of Traction:

1. CONSIDERATION - Phil. 2:4
2. COOPERATION - John 13:1
3. COMMITMENT - Phil. 2:13

III. Tethered By FORGIVENESS

• Colossians 3:12-14

• “When you KNOW God’s GRACE, you’ll want to SHOW God’s GRACE.”
• Matthew 9:12
• Jonah 3:8

Jesus scarred hands paid the price for your sins – won’t you accept His love today so you can be completely loved and love completely?

​

6.4.2023 "Learning Humbly"
LEARN HUMBLY
Part 3 of Series: Live Your Dash

Do you ever feel powerless in life? Maybe you have a habit that you just feel powerless to break? Or a problem in a relationship and you’ve tried everything or maybe it’s a problem at work and it’s just draining your energy and your creativity, and you just feel powerless to solve it. We all experience failures. We all feel powerless at times in life. Yet we all have a power that is available to us that is often neglected. Today we focus on that power and three important lessons to learn humbly. If you and I apply them to our lives, we can have the power to begin again. 2 Cor. 12:9 (NLT)

I. LEARN FROM MY Losses
+ Because of the power of the cross, Failure is never Final.
• Take Responsibility for My Failures.
“A man who refuses to admit his Mistakes_ can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance.” Prov. 28:13 (LB)
• Let Go of My Guilt Mark 16:7
+ Your Future is as Bright as the Promises of God

II. SURRENDER TO GOD’S STRENGTH
“Then He said to them all: ‘If anyone would come after me, He must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.’” Luke 9:23
+ Every day we’ve got to Die to self, our time, our plans, our dreams, our finances, & our relationships. Will you Nail you’re All to the cross?

III. PURSUE GOD’S PATH
“I run in the path of Your commands, for You have set my
heart free.” Ps. 119:32 (NIV)
+ We’ll never Surrender our lives to Him unless we trust Him & we’ll never trust Him until we get to know Him. When we get to know God, our Creator, you know that He knows what’s Best for you.

• The Call • The Wall • The Fall

Ps. 20:7-8 – If you stand proud, you will fall on your Face!

Peter fell on his face, but then Christ in His restoring grace lifted Peter to his knees to find his real power in Him. What has God called you to do that only He can accomplish in and through you?
​

5.28.2023 "Living Passionately"

​“LIVE PASSIONATELY”
Part 2 of Series: Living Your Dash
“So love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.” Mark 12:30 (Msg)
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Rom. 12:11 (NIV)

Often we get too busy in the details of life and we get stressed out & loose the passion for living. Other times a crowded life keeps us from being close to Christ. What can we do? We can learn from the friends of a paralytic to….

I. DO SOMETHING DRASTIC Luke 5:18-20; 24-26
The Clarifying Question: “If you knew you had one month to live, how would you live your life?” – What would you get involved in and what would you not do?

• Realize what’s IMPORTANT___
• Remove the OBSTACLES___

II. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED__ Luke 5:20
- They were persistent….passionate about what Jesus could do!
- God understands your life! He knows what is BEST for you!

III. CREATE GOD SPACE Luke 5:19b
- We’ve got to make some JESUS_ TIME_ in our busy schedules.
- If we fail to do the IMPORTANT__ things, they will never get done.
Mark 1:35-38a; Prov. 10:27

IV. KEEP A CONSTANT REMINDER_ Luke 5:24b-25
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10
- Remember what God has DONE_ in your Life!
- “IMMEDIATELY_ he stood up…” – We need to act NOW_!

Are you living a passionate life with no regrets? What do you need change in order to live like these were your last 30 days?

​

5.21.2023 Living Your “Dash” Leadoff

Living Your “Dash” Leadoff

If we knew we had one month to live, our lives would be radically transformed! But why do we wait until we’re diagnosed with cancer or we lose a loved one to accept this knowledge and allow it to free us?

I. Jesus Lived Passionately
John 10:10; 1 John 5:11-12; Luke 7:31-32

• God’s favorite word is Today… Satan’s favorite word is “Some Day.”
• John Maxwell: “Yesterday Ended Last Night.” He says it reminds him of no matter how badly I failed in the past; it’s done and today is a new day.

II. JESUS Loved Completely
John 13:1; Matt. 22:37-39; 1 Cor. 13:8

• One Month to Live - Your focus would be on your Relationships & express your love to those closest to you.
• A Minor change can make a Major difference in letting someone know you really Love them.

III. JESUS Learned Humbly
Phil. 2:5-8; Prov. 3:6

• 2 things that build character:1) Bible Reading; 2) Problems
• The word for “Success” literally means: “THE ABILITY TO MAKE WISE DECISIONS.”
• Give God: • The First Day of Every Week • The First Part of Every Day • The First Portion of My Income • The First Consideration of Every Decision

IV. JESUS Left Boldly
Luke 9:51; Matt. 25:23

• We were made to leave. We were made for Eternity.
• One of the greatest barriers that keep us from leaving a legacy is trying to please Everyone Else.
• At the end of your life there is only one opinion that matters. Your Heavenly Father saying, “Well Done!”

Ask this question every day: “What would I do if I only had one month to live?” You’re never really ready to live until you are ready to leave so let me ask you. Are you ready to leave?


5.14.2023
Finding Peace – Unanswered Prayers
Lamentations 3:44

Why doesn’t God answer all our prayers? That’s one of the toughest questions for growing Christians. What should your reaction be when He seemingly doesn’t answer your prayers? That is our focus today.

I. Representatives of Unanswered Prayers
A. Life of Moses. Deuteronomy 3:23-28
- Abraham; Elijah; David; Habakkuk - the prayers of some of the most righteous people were not answered affirmatively.
- An example; God had a better PROMISED LAND in mind!
B. Life of Paul. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
- Paul had to battle PRIDE all his life. God wanted to keep Paul from getting conceited. In his weakness God becomes STRONG.

II. Reasons for Unanswered Prayer
Sometimes there is something wrong in us.
A. There may be UNCONFESSED, unrepentant sin in our life. Isaiah 59:1-2. Sin acts as a barrier to prayer.
B. There may be an UNFORGIVING spirit toward another. Mark 11:25
C. Sometimes prayer isn’t answered because of alienation between SPOUSES. 1 Pet 3:7
D. There may be a lack of FAITH in our prayers. Jam 1:6-7; Heb 11:6
E. Maybe we’re asking for the Wrong THING. 1 John 5:14
F. Sometimes we ask in the Wrong TIMING. John 11
G. Sometimes we ask with the wrong MOTIVES. James 4:3
H. Sometimes prayer isn’t answered because we lack INTENSITY.
James 5:16; Hebrews 11:6
But not all unanswered prayer is our fault.
I. It may be because it isn’t in our best INTEREST in the long run. (We grow through struggle; others may be affected) Romans 8:28

III. Reaction to Unanswered Prayers
A. Keep trusting God’s PROVIDENCE. Job 13:15
B. Check your attitude. Two phrases that may help your attitude:
1) Suffering is inevitable but misery is OPTIONAL. John 16:33
2) It’s not about me; it’s about GOD. Matt. 25:21; 7:7-11; Ps. 30:5; Luke 22:42 “… yet not my will, but yours be done.”
C. We should be more concerned that we Answer God’s DESIRE.

We know God answers prayers with Yes, No, and Wait. Can you trust Him to know best? Make sure nothing is wrong on your end!

5.4.2023 - Dave Watts Speaking
"The Main Thing is to Keep the Main Thing, the Main Thing!"


4.30.2023 - "Finding Focus - Decluttering Our Life"
Finding Focus – Decluttering Our Life
Luke 10:38-42
Distracted or Focused – which would best describe you? The story of Mary and Martha provides for us a very timely lesson for many of us on the fast-lane. What distractions cause us to lose focus of the things most important in life? What takes us away from sitting at the feet of Jesus?
I. Distracted by ______________ _____________ …
A. E__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
B. P__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
C. T__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
D. F__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
E. I__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
F. S__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
G. S__________________ Clutter Yes_____ or No______
“Distracted by many things – one thing is needed”
II. Focused on ______________ _____________ …

• Matthew 6:33 Do we seek Him first?
• Matthew 22:36-37 Do we love Him with all that we are?
• Exodus 20:1-7 Do we worship Him only?
• Acts 6; Exodus 18; 1 Cor. 12 – D___________, S_____________, R_____________, Saying “______________,” Calling for H_____________, Saving some R______________, Realizing we have L______________
• Mark 1:35-39 We don’t have to meet everyone’s E_______________! Make time for time with God!
• Phil 3:13 – don’t use this to justify O_______________, B_____________, & S_______________!

What do you need to do this week to un-clutter your life of the distractions that keep you from the most important – Jesus Christ? What will you choose – Mary or Martha – many things or one thing? It is up to you – you can begin now!


4.23.2023 - "Finding Friends - Who to Hang With"

Finding Friends – Who To Hang With
1 Cor. 15:33 "Bad company corrupts good character"
2 Cor. 6:14 "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers"

One of the most precious gifts we have in our lives is the development of friendships and relationships with others. It is also one of the most critical to our Spiritual Growth or lack thereof!

I. The Hardship and Spiritual Wandering that results from
Ungodly Friendships 2 Sam. 13:3-14 "In the world, but not OF"

II. The Joy and Spiritual Maturity that results from Christian
Friendships
David & Jonathan 1 Samuel 18:1-4; 19:1-6 Good Christian Friends help us
grow Spiritually Prov. 27:17; 1 Thess. 5:11; Eccl. 4:9-12
Is God in your friendships? Heb. 10:25

III. Some Helpful Biblical Insights to help us Choose Who to Hang Out With
A. God was Clear in the Old & New Testament on the Seriousness
of Having Ungodly Friends
Lev. 20:25 God's plan for His people was them to remain Pure
Deut.22:10; 2 Cor. 5:17; Num. 25:1-3; Deut. 13:6-10; 2 Cor. 6:14-18; Eph.
5:11 "to come out from them & be separate"- John 17:16; James 4:4-5
B. God Gives Some Guidelines on What to Look for in a Friend
Prov. 17:17; 19:4,6; 27:6,9-10; 2 Cor. 6:14; Prov. 20:19; 22:24-25; 23:20-21;
24:21-22 Do they have the same Spiritual Goals?
C. Your Best Friend Will be Your Spouse - So Choose Wisely
Song 5:16; Matt. 19:5-6 When you marry a non- Christian, that which is
most Essential is at odds between you. It is unwise & unscriptural for
a Christian to date a Non-Christian.
D. Parents, You can help Choose your Children's Friends
Make sure your kids are exposed to the right places of influence like
Church activities, Christian concerts, Christian camp, Christian Universities.
Eph. 6:4 It is our Responsibility while they are at home to influence
them and be in charge of who and what influences them
E. Human Friends are Limited- They will let you down -
God Won’t! Psalm 41:9; Ps. 55:12-14; Prov. 18:24
When we play in the mud with white gloves, the mud never gets “glovey!” Evaluate how you choose your friends and how your friends influence you... Are your friends building your spiritual life up OR tearing it down?


4.16.2023 - "Finding Leadership - Let Me Serve"
Finding Servants – Let Me Help
Acts 6:1-7; 1 Tim. 3: 8-13
The term deacon means “servant.” (“Diakonos” is found 31 times in the New Testament) We are all supposed to be servants. So this message is for the whole church. Let’s look at different levels of servants in the church...

I. General Servants
- John 2:5; 12:2, 26; Luke 4:39; Rom. 13:4 - We’re All deacons! None of us have been saved to sit, but saved to serve! Serving the Lord is not a spectator sport!

II. Gifted Servants
- Rom. 12:5-8 - Some have a special gift of service or helps.
- Characteristics: 1. An alertness to and awareness of practical needs 2. Motivated to meet needs quickly 3. Work to meet needs with disregard for personal weariness 4. Great desire to complete a job once it is started

III. Model Servants
- More things are caught than taught! The capital “D” Deacons are the examples, the model servants to these other 2 groups!
- You are being called upon, not to be perfect, but to strive to be the models: model servants, models in every area of personal and practical life!
- 1 Tim. 3: 8-13 - These are qualities that rub off on those who walk with Jesus. This is what happens to one who spends time looking at him, listening to him, learning from him, living like him- humbly, patiently, & persistently.
- 1 Tim. 3:13; Acts 6:7 - Their service here will be blessed if they continue to follow Christ and if we support them in the works that they perform.

4.9.2023 - "Finding Hope - JESUS!"
Finding Hope - Jesus
Rev. 5:1-14

One day stands above all others. One event changed all history. One person transformed our future and gave us hope!

I. Sealed Scroll – God Controls Our Future Plans (5:1-4)

• Is 42:9; 46:10; Ps. 121:3-4 – God works purposefully according to His careful plans.
• 1- “Life is short” 2 – “Death is sure” 3 – “Sin is the cause” & 4 – “Christ is the Cure”.

II. Slain Lamb – God Forgives Our Past Sins (5:4-7)

• Our sins were nailed to the cross and with them - man’s greatest problem was solved.
• Because He Rose from the Dead – We Will Also! And so Will our Loved Ones who have Trusted in Jesus! - 1 Cor. 25:17-22
• The Lion refers to His second coming - the Lamb refers to His first coming. The Lion speaks of His majesty - the Lamb speaks of His meekness. As the Lion He is sovereign - as Lamb He is Savior. As Lion He is Judge - as Lamb He is judged. The Lion speaks of the government of God - the Lamb speaks of the grace of God
• "He had seven horns.” (Rev. 5:6) - Jesus has complete and perfect power and authority. “Seven eyes” (Rev. 5:6) - Jesus has perfect understanding and perfect knowledge. Col. 2:3

III. New Song - God Inhabits Our Present Praise (5:8-14)

• This recipient of the scroll is worshipped - by 4 living beings; 24 elders; innumerable host of angels, & all creation
• In heaven, all believers in their glorified state, without a sinful nature, will be occupied with giving praise and glory to God. But that's not something we should put off until heaven.
• The worship of the Lamb is based upon His sevenfold worth to receive: 1. Power 2. Riches 3.Wisdom 4.Strength 5. Honor 6. Glory 7. Blessing

We are not in Control - God Is!. We cannot solve the problem of our sin – God Did! We don’t deserve praise – God Does! Our Hope for the future is found only in Jesus, our Savior and risen Lord!


4.2.2023 - "Finding Joy - Joy Stealers"
Finding Joy – Joy Stealers
Philippians 1-4

Has your job got you down? Has the family situation been less than ideal? Has there been conflict with others? Are you concerned over bills & money? Are sleepless nights and anxious moments over circumstances a way of life for you? Is your life far from "joyful"? How can you gain the peace and joy that Jesus promises? What prompted the Apostle Paul to write, "Rejoice in the Lord always", while he was imprisoned? "Joy" - Our Focus:

I. What Can Steal Our Joy...
A. CIRCUMSTANCES (Phil. 1:27-30)
• "Happiness" from same root word as "Happening”
B. PEOPLE (Phil. 4:2)
• Should we let someone else control the way we feel? Should we base
our joy on how we are treated?
C. THINGS (Phil. 3:7-8)
• Luke 12:15 "life doesn't consist in the abundance of Possessions”
D. WORRY (Phil. 4:6-7)
• This is an inside job! It is Wrong thinking & Wrong feeling
about all of the above.

II. Where We Can Find Our Joy...
A. SERVING Christ (Phil. 1:21)
• Phil. 3:13 "This one thing I do..." - a man of Purpose!
• Eph. 3:1; Phil. 1:13-18 Paul did not look at the Circumstances in
themselves, but rather in relationship to Jesus Christ.
• Joy can come from the simple pleasure of knowing the Father
is pleased.
B. LOVING Others (Phil. 2:3)
• Matt. 22:37-38; Rom. 12:20 Do we have to have it our way?
• Phil. 1:4-5; 4:10 Consider the good of others more important than our
own Plans and Desires.
C. WORSHIPPING Christ (Phil. 3:20)
• We want to possess Things, then we discover Things
possess us! Most people mind Earthly things - Phil. 3:19
D. TRUSTING Christ (Phil. 4:7)
• We have God's Peace (4:1-9), Power (4:10-13), & Provision
(4:14-23) looking over us! Why should we Worry?

Will you model Christian Joy for others to see OR Allow Satan to Steal It?


3.26.2023 - "Identity Crisis"
Identity Crisis

There is an “Identity Crisis” sweeping across our nation. It is affecting us all. Let’s see what our response should be according to God’s Word…

I. What Is The Identity Crisis?
- “Sex” –
- “Gender” –
- “Gender dysphoria” –
- “Transvestite” –
- “LGBTQ+” –
- There Are Only Two Biological Sexes!
- Gender identity disorders are almost always a secondary problem sourced
from a much deeper psychological issue. Experts say that when there is no
child sexual abuse or other psychiatric issues, most children outgrow any
gender confusion by puberty.

II. What Does God’s Word Say About This Crisis?
- Is my sex determined by my decision or by God’s design? - Gen. 1:27
“Male and Female He Created Them”
- True freedom is found in embracing and being who we are by God’s
design. Gen. 1:31 tells us “God saw all that he had made, and it was very
good.” So identity is not for us to create – God did that.
- Men and women are different, but are always complementary. Gen. 2:18,
21-24 Role distinctions of male and female as “head” and “helper.”
- Men are Protectors of the “weaker partner” 1 Peter 3:7
- The Bible presents clear Distinctions between Men and Women – No
Blurring of Them! – Deut. 22:5; 1 Cor. 11:3,14-15; Titus 2:2-6; 1 Tim. 5:1-2

III. What Should We Do About This Crisis?
A. Let’s Humbly Grieve – 2 Chron. 7:14
B. Let’s Persistently Pray – 1 Thess. 5:17
C. Let’s Quickly Repent – John 8:11; Luke 6:37; Eph. 4:32
D. Let’s Love and Care – 1 Pet. 4:8
E. Let’s Model True Male & Female Roles - Eph. 5:21-32; Col. 3:18-21;
1 Pet. 3:1-7; 1 Cor. 7:1-40
F. Let’s Stand Up for the Truth – Col. 2:8; Eph. 4:15
G. Let’s Hold Out Hope – Luke 5:20; 2 Chron. 7:14

Our Identity is found in Christ Jesus. That is what is missing in our world. Let us lovingly share the truth of Jesus with the confused and hurting.


3.19.2023 - "Revival with Kevin McNeil

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:

1. Distort the truth and 2) Blinds the minds of unbelievers

U Materialist – Phil. 4:11-13; Humanist - James 1:27; Evolutionist - Rom. 1:20-21 & 2 Tim. 3:8; Legalist – Lk. 18:9 & Eph. 2:8-9
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

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