Portico Church Oshkosh: Recent Episodes
Portico Community
Message Outline
1 John 2:12-14 (reference)
Children: You have real victory because your sins have been forgiven, and you know the Father.
Young Men: You have real victory because you are strong in Christ through the Spirit of God in you.
Fathers: You have real victory through Jesus, your first love.
1 John 2:15-17
1 John 2:16
Our battle against sin is rooted in desire and pride.
James 1:13-15
We must end our love affair with worldly, sinful things and set our affection on Jesus.
Colossians 3:1-2
Victory is found only in Christ, and only by faith.
John 16:33, Romans 8:37, Philippians 4:13, 1 Corinthians 15:57, 2 Corinthians 2:14.
1 John 5:4
Going Deeper Questions
Ice Breaker Question: have you ever been on a team that had an obvious advantage by having the best player on it? Describe that time.
1 John 2:12-14 12I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake. 13I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. 14 I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
What blessings or spiritual truths does John associate with each of these groups:
Children
Young Men
Fathers
How do John’s words encourage YOU as you strive to find real victory in Jesus?
1 John 2:15-17 15Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
What are the types of sinful/worldly things fall into each category?
Desire of the flesh (anything that brings comfort or pleasure):
Desire of the eyes (anything that makes us covet what we see):
Pride of life (whatever makes us look down on others):
From the message: We must end our love affair with worldly, sinful things and set our affection on Jesus. Is there a specific area (or a specific thing) that is a very difficult struggle for you?
Passages to consider: John 16:33, Romans 8:37, Philippians 4:13, 1 Corinthians 15:57, 2 Corinthians 2:14. Victory is found only in Christ, and only by faith. What do you think it means to rely on Christ for victory, rather than fighting in your own strength and power? How easy/difficult is that for you to do?
Prayer: Pray for victory in areas of life where you find yourself struggling with your desires and pride.
The Real Thing: Real Victory (1 John 2:12-17)Download
Message Outline
1 John 2:1-11
1 John 2:3
Ginosko means to know from first-hand experience.
Real knowledge of Jesus is demonstrated when we keep His commands.
John 14:15, 21, 23, 24; John 15:10
1 John 3:11
John 15:12
The command that shows we really know Jesus is this: Love one another.
All sin is a violation of love
The evidence someone knows Jesus is NOT perfection; it’s progress.
QUESTION: Are you moving in the right direction in terms of your obedience and love?
CHALLENGE: Don’t just ALLOW Jesus to work on you however you see fit. ASK Him to work on you however He wants!
Going Deeper Questions
Ice Breaker Question: who is the most famous person you have ever met/seen in person? Who is the most famous person you actually know in a personal way?
1 John 2:3 talks about really knowing God versus knowing about God.
How would you distinguish between simply knowing facts about God and truly knowing God in a life-changing personal way? What are some modern-day examples of people who claim to know God but whose lives are characterized by disobedience?
John links knowing God with obeying His commands. How can we guard against separating knowledge of God from obedience to Him?
1 John 2:5 talks about love being perfected in us. What do you think it means for the love of God to be “perfected” or “made complete” in you through your obedience? What are the implications if our love for God is not expressed in a changed life?
1 John 2:7-8 John describes the commandment to love one another as both “old” and “new.” In what ways is this command old, and in what ways is it new? How does Jesus’s life and death give this ancient command a new meaning for Christians?
1 John 2:9-11 John uses the metaphors of light and darkness to contrast love versus hatred Who are the people easy for you to love? Who are the most difficult? How do our relationships with others act as a clear sign of our spiritual state?
John says the one who hates his brother “does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.” In a practical sense, how can a lack of love lead to spiritual “stumbling” or “blindness” in a person’s life?
The evidence someone knows Jesus is NOT perfection; it’s progress.
Are you moving in the right direction in terms of your obedience and love?
Prayer: Pray for greater love and less hatred or animosity in your life. Pray you can move beyond selectively “allowing” God to work in you, instead “asking” Him to work in you!
Real Knowledge 1 John 2:3-11Download
Message Outline
Each Time John revisits a theme it amplifies the idea even more.
1 John 1:5-10 5This is the message we have heard from him [Jesus] and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.6If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
1 John 2:2:1-2 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.
Light represents both Intellectual truth and moral rightness
1John 1:5
1 John 1:6-7 Hypocritical- living a lie
1John 1:8-9 Delusional- believing a lie
1John 1:10 Rebellious – attacking with a lie
1 John 2:1-2
We have an advocate who died to cleanse us and bring us into the light.
Question: What area(s) of darkness in your life needs to be brought into the light?
Challenge: Talk to a friend in Christ about an area of darkness in your life that needs to be brought into the light.
Going Deeper Questions
Starter/Icebreaker Question: What is the greatest physical experience of darkness you have had in your life? (IE – being without power, deep in a cave, out in the woods at night, etc.)
Can you think of a time when you physically experienced the brightest light?
Review 1 John 1:5-2:2
1 John 1:5 says, “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” Light represents God’s intellectual truth and moral goodness.
What do you think it should it look like in daily life to “walk in the light” rather than “walk in darkness”? On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your level of commitment to walking in the light? Why do you say that?
Think about Walking in Darkness (1 John 1:6, 8,10)
What forms of darkness do you tend to be drawn toward? What steps do you take to keep on track?
In the message, it was mentioned that we can be hypocritical (living a lie), delusional (believing a lie), or rebellious (attacking God with a lie). Can you think of examples of being affected this way before you came to know Jesus? How do you see it in those around you who don’t know Him yet? Do you see any of it in your life today?
Think about walking in the light (1 John 1:7, 9)
Are there areas of darkness you have been walking in in the past that you now stay away from? How has God brought about that change in you?
What aspects of God’s light have the strongest pull on you toward faithfully following Jesus? Why are they so strong?
Why do you think confession of sin is so central to fellowship with God and with others? Who can you tell about areas of darkness in your life? Will you be courageous enough to do it?
Prayer: Pray a prayer of thanks and praise for Jesus, who is our advocate. He is the one who brings forgiveness and made a way for us to be right with God through faith.
Real Light (1 John 1:5-2:2)Download
Message Outline:
1 John 1:1-4
Koinonia (fellowship) means partnership; sharing in participation together.
What does REAL FELLOWSHIP WITH JESUS look like?
When we spend time with God, we get the real treasure: God himself!
What does REAL FELLOWSHIP WITH OTHERS look like?
MY joy can’t be complete without you. And OUR joy can’t be complete without each other.
Challenge 1 find time each day to spend with Jesus just to get to know him better.
Challenge 2 get yourself in a place where you are engaged in REAL FELLOWSHIP with other believers in this church on a regular basis.
Follow Up Questions:
Starter/Icebreaker Question: Have there been any times where something “fake” (IE a post, picture or video on the web) has really fooled you? How did it affect you? What are the implications of people believing in or following an inauthentic version of Jesus?
Read/Review 1 John 1:1-4 1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us— 3that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4And we are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.
Verses 1-2 John emphasizes that he heard, saw, and touched Jesus.
How does the eyewitness nature of his testimony affect your confidence in the gospel message, knowing he experienced Jesus first-hand?
Verse 3 emphasizes fellowship (koinonia) which mean partnership, sharing in participation, and having a common bond.
What does it mean to have real fellowship and connection with Jesus? Do you believe you are fully known and fully loved by Him? Are there past or present sins, failures and struggles that make you doubt that? If so, please share them.
What does it mean to have real fellowship and connection with others? What are the things you don’t want other people to know about you for fear they won’t love you (or even like you) anymore?
What does your fellowship (devotional life) in relationship/fellowship with Jesus look like? When and how much time are you spending with him personally on your own? In a small group context? In an accountability relationship with a friend?
Verse 4 John refers to our joy being complete when we have fellowship in Christ with others.
Who are those you feel like you are experiencing that with right now?
In the message you were encouraged to think of a few people you are close with that don’t know Jesus. How does their separation from Christ make you feel? What does it stir up in you?
Prayer: Pray for a deeper personal connection (fellowship) with Jesus, and for courage to get real and go deeper with one another. Pray for the Portico community to grow in this as well.
The Real Thing: Real Fellowship (1 John 1:1-4)Download
Following Jesus is not supposed to be exhausting
John 15:4
James 4:8
Matthew 11:28-30
Time
Mark 6:31
Conversation
Mark 4:33-34
Learning
Luke 10:38-42
Affection
John 3:16
Romans 5:8
Sacrifice
Mark 10:42-44
Faithfulness
John 6:66-68
Hebrews 10:23
Constant Communion – ConnectionDownload
Matthew 22:1-14
Called out of darkness called into light
Called out of sin called into righteousness
Called out of separation called into relationship
Called out of impurity called into holiness
Called out of wrath called into reward
Called out of death called into life
Constant Community: CallingDownload
Message: 1 Samuel 16 God Looks at the Heart
Title: God Looks at the Heart
1 Samuel 16:1-23
1 Samuel 16: 7
What are we looking at when we see other people?
What do others see when they look at us?
God will use us when our hearts are right, even if we don’t have much to offer. But it doesn’t matter how much we have to offer if our hearts aren’t right with Him.
1 Samuel 16 God Looks at the HeartDownload
1 Samuel 15 – Saul and the Final StrawDownload1 Samuel 15:1-3
Deuteronomy 25:17-19 NIV
1 Samuel 15:4-23
God is looking for obedient hearts, otherwise the sacrifice we make doesn’t mean anything.
1 Samuel 15:23
Saul has now been personally disqualified as king.
1 Samuel 15:24-31
Samuel chose to honor Saul’s position as king – not his ungodly conduct.
1 Samuel 15:32-16:13
Question 1: If Saul knew that he was not “the one” then why did he take the job?
Answer 1: For Saul, it was never about what God wanted; it was about what he wanted.
Question 2: If God knew what was going to happen with Saul, why did he make Saul king in the first place?
Answer 2: Saul was the kind of king the people wanted, and God was giving them what they wanted.
1 Samuel 15:10-11
1 Samuel 15:29
nacham (naw-kham’) means to be sorry, console oneself.
Question 3: If Saul is disqualified as king, why does he continue to rule so long?
Answer 3: God is preparing His king, and He is preparing His people.
1 Samuel 14: 1-10
If I’da listened to the odds, woulda never made it through. Every time they told me stop it was the last thing I would do. Instead I left it up to God, and I watched the mountain move. If I’da listened to the odds, woulda never met you. ~Mat Kearney, Odds
The odds don’t matter at all when God matters most.
1 Samuel 114:11-13
Video Clip: Come Up Here
1 Samuel 14:13-30
MAP: Aijalon
1 Samuel 14:31-52
Saul was operating in fear and walking in the ways of the world. Jonathan was operating by faith and walking in the way of the Lord.
Where in life are you operating in few like Saul instead of faith like Jonathan?
1 Samuel 14 Saul’s Downward Spiral ContinuesDownload
1 Samuel 13:1-2
1 Samuel 13:3
1 Samuel 13:4
If you want GOOD advice, be sure you seeking out GODLY advice.
1 Samuel 13:5-13
Instead of taking God’s word to heart, Saul takes matters into his own hands.
Question: How could Saul have forfeited an everlasting kingdom that he never could have had?
Answer: God could have chosen to bless Saul and his descendants forever from the beginning.
1 Samuel 13:14-15
1 Samuel 13:16-14:3
Character has to run deep or it will never hold.
1 Samuel 13:1-14-14:31 Saul’s Immediate Descent BeginsDownload
Step into God’s will with courage and confidence
1 Samuel 10:23-27
1 Samuel 11
When we step out in faith to do God’s will, He will always come through.
1 Samuel 12
God has always been faithful to us, even when we’ve been unfaithful to Him.
2 Timothy 2:13
God has always been faithful to us, even when we’ve been unfaithful to Him.
The People Demand a King
1 Samuel 7:15-8:3
Parents: You are called to be Godly people and examples for your children.
People: You are called to be Godly people and examples for everyone.
1 Samuel 8:4-9:27
If we believe Jesus is Lord, He should have the final word and be our ultimate authority.
1 Samuel 8-9 The People Demand a KingDownload
Romans 16:17-18Luke 17:1-2James 3:1Romans 16:19Philippians 4:8-9Romans 16:20Romans 16:25Romans 16:26Romans 16:27Who gets the final word in your life?Romans 16:27Glory be to God forevermore though Jesus!
Romans 16:1-2 What is clear from all of this is that Phoebe was a wealthy woman who used her wealth, her mobility and her personal resources to care for the saints and to assist in the spread of the Gospel. Her example should inspire all of us to consider how we can leverage our advantages … Continue reading People Worth Mentioning (Romans 16:1-16, 21-23) →
Romans 13:8-10Every sin that has ever been committed is a violation of love.Romans 13:9Matthew 5:21-22Matthew 5:27-28 Romans 13:101 Corinthians 13:4-8 Real love toward someone looks like God’s love toward us.Romans 5:8John 15:13 Romans 13:11-12 a (end with “the day is at hand”)Romans 13:12-14We need to live and love with urgency.
Romans 12:14-21 (reference) Romans 12:14Romans 12:17aRomans 12:18Romans 12:19Romans 12:20-21 Matthew 5:38-48 If we want to love like Jesus, we have to love the people who are hardest to love.
Romans 12:3-8 A spiritual gift is an expression of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer which empowers them to serve the body of Christ, the church. Romans 12:3Romans 12:4-51 Corinthians 12:12-27 We cannot survive or succeed without one another. 6Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us … Continue reading Spiritual Gifts (Romans 12:3-8) →
A sacrifice is an act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as worthy or more important. Romans 12:1-2Present your BODY as a sacrifice. Present your body as a LIVING sacrifice: alive and available to God. The focus isn’t on GIVING our lives in sacrifice; it’s on LIVING our lives … Continue reading Resist the World. Renew Your Mind. (Romans 12:1-2) →
“All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people.” Romans 11:25-27Isaiah 59:20-21Jeremiah 31:31-34Romans 11:28-292Timothy 2:11-13 God’s faithfulness to us doesn’t depend on our ability to match it. Romans 11:30-32 God offers his mercy and grace to all… to every last one of us! Romans 11:33-36Romans 11:33Do we acknowledge the … Continue reading The Depth of God and His Wisdom (Romans 11:25-36) →
Romans 10:1-4, 14-17Romans 10:18-21We would have gotten the blessing we were looking for if we had just done what God said to do in the first place! Romans 11:1-15Key Idea: God introduced reverse psychology!Romans 11:16-24 So what’s our proper posture?Humility1 Peter 5:6Romans 12:3 GratitudeEucharisteó (yoo-khar-is-teh’-o): to be thankful.1 Thessalonians 5:18 In all of this, God … Continue reading God Hasn’t Given Up (romans 10:18-11:24) →
Romans 9:1-8God is sovereign. He’s ultimately in control of all things.Romans 9:9-13Malachi 1:2-4miséō – properly, to detest (on a comparative basis); hence, denounce; to love someone or something less than someone (something) else, i.e. to renounce one choice in favor of another.Lk 14:26-27Romans 9:14-19God is not accountable for sin; we are.Romans 9:20-23Our criticism of God … Continue reading Questioning God’s Sovereignty -and Wisdom (Romans 9:1-10:4) →
Romans 8:31-39
Who can be against us?
No One. Nothing. And None of the Above.
Who will bring a charge against us?
No One. Nothing. And None of the Above.
Who will condemn us?
No One. Nothing. And None of the Above.
Who will separate us from the love of Christ?
No One. Nothing. And None of the Above.
I am sure that [nothing, no one, and none of the above] will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord! ~Eric’s Paraphrase
If we are living by and walking in the Spirit,
we’ll be putting aside the desires of the flesh.
If we are living by and walking in the Spirit,there will be fruit in our lives.
If we are living by and walking in the Spirit,people will notice we are different.
No One. Nothing. None of the Above. – Romans 8:31-39Download
All Things Work Together for GoodDownloadRomans 8:18
Romans 8:24
Romans 8:26
Romans 8:28
All Things Work Together for Good
Romans 8:28-30
for those who love God
who have been called according to his purpose
Romans 8:29
those whom he foreknew
he also predestined
to be conformed to the image of his Son
in order that he [Jesus] might be the firstborn among many
Romans 8:30
those whom he predestined
he also called
those whom he called he also justified
those whom he justified he also glorified
Whatever you are going through, God will use it to accomplish something good. He will not waste that opportunity.
Maybe He’s working on your character.
Maybe He’s working on your obedience.
Maybe He’s working on your heart.
Maybe He’s working on your faith.
Maybe He’s working on your life.
Maybe He’s working on someone else.
Maybe He’s working on something “unknown.”
4-16-23DownloadRomans 5:20
Romans 6:1-14
(charis) grace: undeserved kindness and unmerited favor.
Key Idea #`: Don’t engage in sin just because grace is greater.
Romans 6:1-6
Katargeó (kat-arg-eh’-o): to render completely inoperative, put out of use, make something to have zero effect.
Romans 6:7
Galatians 5:1 NIV
Romans 6:8-11
Consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Don’t Give in to Sinful Desires
Romans 6:12
Don’t Chase After Sinful Opportunities
Romans 6:13
Don’t Be Ruled By Sin’s Reign
Romans 6:14
Jesus and the CrossDownloadLuke 22-23
“But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”
Our time is going to be over in no time.
Romans 5:1-5
How do I know my faith is really enough?
God’s work in your life and the presence of the Holy Spirit prove it to you.
Romans 5:6-11
Romans 5:6
asthenés (as-then-ace’) literally means “without strength.”
Romans 5:7
Romans 5:8
Paul describes us as three things: weak, ungodly, and sinners.
God’s act of grace came before any act of faith on our part.
If God is that gracious to us, how could we possibly doubt that our faith is enough?
Romans 5:9
Since we’ve been justified (declared righteous) by faith we surely will be saved through faith.
Romans 5:10
If God would give his Son to die for us when we didn’t have faith, why would he turn his back on us now that we believe?
Romans 5:11
Romans 5:1-11 Is my faith really enough?Download
2-26-23DownloadRomans 3:27-31
Romans 3:20 “…through the law comes knowledge of sin.”
Romans 4:1-25
Romans 4:4-5
Our faith is credited to us as righteousness.
Ephesians 2:10
Our faith is credited to us as righteousness.
Romans 4:16
Our faith is credited to us as righteousness.
Romans 4:23-25
Our faith is credited to us as righteousness.
Four practical things we can take away from the example of Abraham:
Romans 4:20-21
Hebrews 10:23
Hebrews 11
Faith is unwavering. Be steadfast in your faith.
Faith can be strengthened. Build up your faith muscles.
Faith brings glory to God. Greater faith brings greater glory.
Faith is confident in Him. Be assured that God will come through.
The Just and the JustifierDownloadRomans 3:19
Romans 3:20
Justice (dikaioo) means “to be declared just or righteous (in right standing).”
Romans 3:21-26 (reference)
Romans 3:21-22a
Romans 3:22b-23
Once we realize we’re all in the same sinking ship, we’ll see that we all need rescuing.
Romans 3:24-25a
Grace (charis) means “kindness, grace, favor.”
Redemption (polutrósis) means “a release, effected by payment of ransom.”
Propitiation (hilastérion) means “to win or regain favor by doing something that pleases someone.”
Isaiah 53:5
Romans 3:24-25a
Romans 3:25b-26
God is both just, AND the justifier.
Romans 3:26
In order for God to be just and true He had to satisfy every requirement of the very law He gave.
Matthew 5:17-18
In order for God to be just and true He had to satisfy every requirement of the very law He gave. (add next line) He did so in Jesus.
Religious identity is about relying on heritage and history for salvation, rather than having genuine faith in Christ.
Romans 2:17
Romans 2:25
Romans 2:28-29
The problem with Religious Identity is that it creates a false sense of entitlement that prevents someone from turning to Jesus.
Romans 3:1-4
Psalm 51:3-4
Romans 3:5-8
Romans 2:4-5
Romans 3:9-18
Psalm 14:7 (or 53:6) *incorrect verse numbers are referenced
Isaiah 59:20
Romans 2:19-20
Summary: religious identity (history and heritage) can’t save anyone. Only faith in Jesus can accomplish that.
Some churches/denominations genuinely believe they are the only ones going to heaven.
Some people cling to their Christian religious identity despite not having any real relationship with Jesus.
Help them see that religious identity (relying on history and heritage) can’t save anyone. Only Jesus can.
The Problem With Religious IdentityDownload
Self-effort is pursuing righteousness by trying hard to observe the right rules, regulations and rituals.
Romans 2:12
Romans 2:13
James 2:10-11
Romans 2:14-16
Romans 2:17-20
Romans 2:21-24
Romans 2:25-27
The Problem with Self-Effort: Keeping all the rules is seen as the way to get into heaven. But even when we fail to keep them, we still expect to receive a good judgement from God in the end.
There is almost always a loophole: something else we can DO to make us right when we fail to follow the other rules.
Romans 2:28-29
Summary: Salvation can’t be attained by self-effort. It’s only possible through Jesus. It’s an issue of the heart. It’s a matter of the Spirit.
Matthew 5:17-20
When it comes to reaching others, help them see how exhausting and futile self-effort really is.
Romans 2:1-11
Moralism is making personal judgements about someone’s righteousness based on our own rationale and thinking.
Romans 2:1
The moralist can always find a comparison that affirms he/she is good enough to warrant heaven.
Romans 2:2-5
2 Peter 3:9
Romans 2:6-11
Summary: The Problem with moralism is our standards aren’t God’s standards. We don’t judge impartially, and we’re all guilty of not measuring up – even to our own standards.
Question: How do we connect with others who seem to have a moralist mentality?
We have to lovingly help them see they don’t measure up to God’s standards.
We can start by sharing with them how we ourselves have come up short.
1 Timothy 1:12-16
Remember we have a secret weapon: The Holy Spirit.
John 16:8
The Problem With MoralismDownload
Romans 1:16-17
For I am not ashamed of the gospel
1 Corinthians 15:1-5
for it is the power of God for salvation
sótéria (so-tay-ree’-ah): deliverance, salvation
to everyone who believes
to the Jew first and also to the Greek
Romans 1:17
for in it, the righteousness of God
dikaiosuné (dik-ah-yos-oo’-nay): righteousness, justice.
The central dilemma for all of humanity is obtaining righteousness.
is revealed
God has revealed the standard of righteousness through the person of Jesus.
God has revealed the means of attaining righteousness through faith in Jesus.
from faith for faith
“The righteous shall live by faith.”
Salvation comes through righteousness, and righteousness comes through faith.
The Key: Righteousness Through Faith (Romans 1:16-17)Download
Title: Building Bridges with Rome
Romans 1:1-15
Romans 1:16-17
In this letter to the Romans, Paul gives them his masterpiece.
Question: What are we offering to others around us in the way of sharing the gospel?
When it comes to sharing Jesus, are you giving people a masterpiece, or is it more of a mess?
Building Bridges with Rome (Romans 1:1-15)Download
Life and Freedom in the Holy SpiritDownloadRomans 8:1-30
The Spirit sets you free.
The Spirit gives you peace.
The Spirit gives you eternal life.
The Spirit makes you a child of God.
The Spirit helps you.
The Spirit fights for you.
The Spirit works to transforms you.
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
You have Life and Freedom in the Spirit.
Galatians 5:1, 13a, 16-18, 25
You have Life and Freedom in the Spirit.
The Spirit in the Lives of Unbelievers
John 16:7-9
Miraculous Sign Gifts
1 Corinthians 12:31
Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit
Matthew 12:24-37
Luke 12:8-10
The Holy Spirit is working for OUR GOOD, and for OTHER’S SAKE, but it’s for GOD’S GLORY.
Ezekiel 36:22-23 22“Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord GOD: It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for the sake of my holy name… 23 …And the nations will know that I am the LORD, declares the Lord GOD, when through you I vindicate my holiness before their eyes.
Revelations 7:9-12
Ephesians 3:20-21
He destroys barriersEphesians 2:12-22 Ephesians 2:18 He brings unity. Ephesians 4:1-3 He makes us one. Romans 10:12-13Galatians 3:26-28 He equips us uniquely. Romans 12:6-81 Corinthians 12:4-111 Corinthians 12:27-28 He calls us to work together. 1 Corinthians 12:12-26Romans 12:3-5 Video: Jason Hewlett – Gift What are your spiritual gifts? How you using them?Are you developing them? … Continue reading Ghost Stories (8): The Holy Spirit Through Us →
His presence and power give us what we need to live a Godly life and be a witness in the world. Galatians 5:16-25The Holy Spirit sanctifies us. hagiasmos (hag-ee-as-mos’): consecration, sanctificationThe process of making or becoming holy or set apart. It is a principle of grace savingly wrought, whereby the heart becomes holy, and is … Continue reading Ghost Stories (7): The Holy Spirit in Us →
The Holy Spirit works in us similarly to how He worked within Jesus. John 14:15-18John 14:25-27John 15:26-27John 16:6-7John 16:12-14 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17even the Spirit of truth… and He will be in you. The PRESENCE of the Holy Spirit1 Corinthians … Continue reading Ghost Stories (6): The Holy Spirit’s Presence and Power →
The Holy Spirit works in us similarly to how He worked within Jesus. The Gospel Coalition: Redemption means to secure the release or recovery of persons or things by the payment of a price. It is a covenantal legal term closely associated with ransom, atonement, substitution, and deliverance, thus salvation. Before Christ, Redemption was ANTICIPATED.In … Continue reading Ghost Stories (5): The Holy Spirit in Redemption →
Isaiah 11:1-2 The Holy Spirit in Christ was both constant and permanent. John 1:32-34Matthew 12:25-27Hebrews 9:141 Peter 3:18Acts 1:1-3 The will of God the Father was commanded from Jesus the Son by/through the Holy Spirit.John 14:16-17John 16:7John 7:37-39 Acts 1:4-9Acts 2:1-41The Holy Spirit works in us similarly to how He worked within Jesus. Whatever the … Continue reading Ghost Stories (4): The Holy Spirit A.D. →
Numbers 11:1-35 Numbers 11:17The Holy Spirit B.C. came upon certain individuals, not upon all who believed in God. Numbers 11:25, 28, 29 The Holy Spirit B.C. was given selectively and (sometimes) temporarily to accomplish God’s purposes. Individuals: Bezalel (Exodus 31:1-5) Leaders: Moses, Joshua (Numbers 11:25, 27:18) Judges: Othniel, Gideon and Samson(Judges 3:10, 6:34, 13:25) Kings: … Continue reading Ghost Stories (3): The Holy Spirit B.C. →
The Nature of the Holy Spirit: Holy Spirit is fully God, and nothing less.Holy Spirit is a person, not an impersonal force. Genesis 1:1-2:3Holy Spirit was present at creation.Genesis 1:2Ruach (Hebrew) = breath, wind, spirit. Holy Spirit was responsible for creation.Genesis 1:1Genesis 1:26-27 Holy Spirit was involved in creation.Colossians 1:15-17Psalm 149:2Psalm 33:6 Psalm 19:1-6Romans 1:20 … Continue reading Ghost Stories (2): The Holy Spirit at Creation →
The Nature of the Holy Spirit Ephesians 3:14, 16, 19 Matthew 3:1-12 pneuma= wind, breath, spirit. Matthew 3:13-17 There is one God manifested in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Key Idea 1: The Holy Spirit is God, not anything less. Holy Spirit is uncreated. Genesis 1:1 Holy Spirit is eternal … Continue reading Ghost Stories (1) →
The Millers and Whittons share some experiences, trials and joys from their time as Foster/Adoption parents.
John 1:5There is a Darkness. But There is a Light. Light Dispels DarknessLight Exposes Things Hidden in the DarknessLight Illuminates Everything Remedy Drive Quote You are meant to be a light (luminary) Ephesians 5:8
Three Key Players Israel – king Hoshea Judah – king Hezekiah Assyria – king Sennacherib 2 Kings 18:1-42 Chronicles 29:3Worship of God Priority #1Numbers 21:8-92 Kings 18:33, 352 Kings 19:15-192 Kings 19:32-37Reset
Romans 15:13 Joy is found in the presence of the Lord.Psalm 16:11 Joy is something God produces when we abide in him.Galatians 5:22-23John 15:5 Joy is rooted in righteousness.Proverbs 10:28 Joy is an awareness of God’s grace.Chara (khah- ra’) = joy (properly: the awareness of grace). Joy is receiving salvation through Christ.1 Peter 1:8-9 Joy … Continue reading RISING: A Spirit of Joy →
Luke 24:13-35 textWhat exactly do we mean by “spiritual things?” These slides should be all one (point with subpoints and references) if possible. Only need the Bible text where noted. The God of the Bible.Isaiah 44:6 John 14:6 John 14:16-17 Acts 4:12 God as the Creator/Sustainer of the Natural RealmColossians 1:15-17 God as the Creator/Sustainer … Continue reading RISING: A Passion for Spiritual Things →
To restore our awe of God, Jesus first replaces the shallow familiarity with God that causes us to mistakenly think we know Him. ~ B B Warfield Matthew 13:53-58 1. We must move beyond shallow familiarity with Jesus. And also, Jesus replaces the vain confidence in ourselves that causes us to mistakenly think we know … Continue reading RISING: A Relentless Pursuit of Jesus →
How do we get back our sense of awe and wonder? The resurrection restores astonishment. We recover awe when we acknowledge the greatness of Jesus’ sacrifice, the depth of our sin, and the height of his love — all in the person of Christ. ~ Jonathan K Dodson We acknowledge the depth of our sin.Romans … Continue reading RISING: A Sense Of Awe And Wonder →
Note: This message has been re-recorded the day after our worship gathering as the live broadcast had technical issues. Mark 8:31-32Mark 9:31Mark 10:33-34Matthew 27:62-66 Readings:Luke 24:1-16Luke 24:28-46John 21:1-14Luke 24:50-53 Five signs that LOVE IS RISING:sense of awepursuit of Jesusspiritual passionheart of worship spirit of joy Is there a love for Jesus rising in you?
Nehemiah 12:27-47Nehemiah 13:1-31 People are terrible, and God’s people (sometimes) are the worst! We’re not that different from the people in Nehemiah’s day “Man is of his own nature, fleshly and carnal, corrupt, sinful and disobedient to God without any spark of goodness in him, without any virtuous or Godly motion; only given to evil … Continue reading Nehemiah (12-13) In the End, Everything Falls Apart →
Nehemiah: 10-11Nehemiah 9:36-38First term: no foreign womenDeuteronomy 7:1-41 Kings 11:4-8Second term: keep the sabbathExodus 20:8-11Third term: give tithes and offerings2 Corinthians 8:72 Corinthians 9:7 The terms of their “deal with God”: We’ll honor You in our relationships.We’ll honor You in our time.We’ll honor You in our finances. We can’t really make deals with God.Acts 17:24-25, … Continue reading Nehemiah (10-11): Making Deals With God →
Revival (defn) 1) an improvement in the condition or strength of something. 2) an instance of something becoming popular, active, or important again. “Revival is the awakening or quickening of God’s people to their true nature and purpose.” Robert Coleman Nehemiah 9:1-3They hear God’s word.They ask God’s forgiveness.They cry out in worship. Nehemiah 9:4-25Acknowledging God’s … Continue reading Nehemiah (9): Is This What Revival Looks Like? →
Nehemiah 8:1-8We need to be eager to hear and understand his word. Nehemiah 8:9-12The very fact that you are being convicted by God’s word is evidence that he still loves you… is still pursuing you… and still hasn’t given up on you. It is cause for great joy. Nehemiah 8:13-18 Nehemiah 8:10b “Do not be … Continue reading Nehemiah (8): The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength →
Nehemiah 7:1-4 All three episodes have the same conclusion: the work got completed, but with mixed results. Nehemiah 7:5-72 Two things this list should have done in people’s hearts: -inspired them to sacrifice-challenged them to be in it for the long haul
Nehemiah 6:1-19
4 ways we often get off-track:
Distractions
Lies
Compromise
Scare Tactics
There is a difference between danger and the possibility of danger.
Even when there IS real danger, believe that God will fight for you.
Resolve: Unwavering determination
“But now, O God, strengthen my hands.”
Nehemiah 6:16
Stay focused and finish strong
Nehemiah 6: Stay Focused and Finish StrongDownload
Nehemiah 5:1-13
Repent: Respond the right way when we’re called out for being in the wrong.
Nehemiah 5:14-19
Reflect: Be an example of God’s heart.
Video: Faces of human Trafficking
Fighting oppression or injustice:
Do what you can to make a difference.
(Make Sure you’re life backs it up)
Do it with a right heart.
Do it as an example to others
Nehemiah 5: God’s Will, God’s Way, God’s HeartDownload
Resist: Defend Against Your Opposition
Nehemiah 2:9-10
Nehemiah 2:19-20
Nehemiah 4:1-4
Nehemiah 4:5-8
Nehemiah 4:9-23
Weak Insignificant Foolish Defeated
Inadequate Incapable Inept
Nehemiah (Stand Strong) by Jon Egan (This song occurs at 28 min in, but it did not record properly. You will only hear keyboard. Please skip ahead to 32 min for the rest of the message)
Pray. Work. Fight.
Nehemiah (4): I’m Not Coming Off This WallDownload
Nehemiah 2:9-16
Recon: Assess the situation
Nehemiah 2:17-18
Rally: Invite people to engage in the effort
Nehemiah 2:19-20
Nehemiah 3:1-32
Everyone had a role to play.
Each person did their part.
Even those outside Jerusalem helped.
Nehemiah 3:5
Recognize: Every Task Matters and Every Person Counts.
“Progress comes more quickly to a church where most people engage in the work.” ~ Nate Holdridge
Nehemiah (2A,3)We’re All In This TogetherDownload
VideoLink: Brighter than Apathy by Remedy Drive
Nehemiah 1:11
Nehemiah 2:1-8
Risk: Seize the Opportunity
Request: Ask for What is Needed
Whatever our opportunity is, our King has UNLIMITED resources to provide us.
Philippians 4: 19-20
Video Link: Broken Things by Matthew West
Nehemiah (2A) What are you gonna do?Download
Nehemiah 1:4
Response: Fast and Pray
Reasons a person might fast:
To express sorrow.
To express repentance.
To express humility.
To express concern.
To express worship.
Nehemiah 1:5-11
Nehemiah 1:5
Nehemiah Praises God
Nehemiah 1:6-7
Nehemiah confesses disobedience and corruption against God
Nehemiah 1:8-10
Nehemiah calls on God to be God.
Deuteronomy 4:33
Nehemiah 1:11a
Nehemiah asks God to give him favor.
Matthew 6:5-8, Matthew 6:16-18
Prayer and fasting should be our first response, not our last resort.
Challenge: fast and pray 3 times this week.
Personal: for an area of need.
Community: for our outreach efforts.
Kingdom: for unbelievers.
Nehemiah (1B): What’s Your First ResponseDownload
2 Chronicles 36:11-21 text
Ezra 3:10-12
Nehemiah 1:1-3 text
Report: Somethings is wrong here.
Nehemiah 1:4 text
Reaction: Weep and Mourn.
Our hearts should be genuinely distressed over things that grieve God’s heart.
Personal Level: Is our heart deeply moved for things that are broken?
Community Level: Do we see where we as a faith community are coming up short?
Kingdom Level: Do we recognize where things just aren’t right in the kingdom of God?
Our hearts should be genuinely distressed over things that grieve God’s heart.
VIDEO: BRANDON HEATH GIVE ME YOUR EYES You can watch it by clicking here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5AkNqLuVgY
Nehemiah (1A): There’s Somethign Wrong HereDownload
He came to meets us where we were at
He came to introduce himself to us
John 17:3 (text)
Jesus lived to honor God.
John 8:49b-50
Philippians 2:5-8
Jesus selflessly loved people.
Mark 6:30-34
Jesus cared deeply for the weak and poor.
Luke 14:12-14
Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus sought out the spiritually needy.
Matthew 9:10-12
Jesus laid down his life for all… even those who opposed him.
1 Timothy 2:5-6
Romans 5:10
John 10:17-18
Hello, My Name is Jesus pic
What others see in you should be a reflection of Jesus.
Live to honor God
Selflessly love people
Care deeply for the weak and poor.
Seek out the spiritually needy. Lay down our lives for all… even those who oppose us.
Hello, My Name is JesusDownload
We have a God who gives us more than the capacity we have to contain.
Psalm 23:1-6
John 7:37-38
Ephesians 3:14-19
Make room for Jesus, both in your heart and in your life.
If you need to get back on track in this area of your life:
1 Be Brave; Take the First Step.
2 Start Small and Build it Up.
3 Don’t Be Afraid to Start Over. Again.
4 Saying Yes requires Saying No.
Make (More) Room for JesusDownload
The Arrival (revisited)Download Luke 2:1-7
Luke 2:7a And she gave birth to her firstborn son
Luke 2:7b and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
The swaddling cloths hinted at his humanity.
The swaddling cloths pointed to his purpose.
Luke 2:7b and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Luke 2:8-12
Matthew 2:6
Isaiah 40:10-12
Jesus wrapped and laying a manger was powerful picture of God’s plan of salvation.
Luke 2:7b and[wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Jesus was born into very humble beginnings with less than ideal circumstances.
Make room for Jesus, both in your heart and in your life.
Luke 2:1, 3-7 NLT
Luke 2:7
This scene might appear to be a disaster. It’s not fit for a king. But it’s exactly what God wanted it to be.
The Arrival (Christmas Eve)Download
The First Sign: The Visit
Luke 1:26-35 NLT
The Second Sign: The Dream
Matthew 1:18-21, 24-25 NLT
The Third Sign: The Angels
Luke 2:8-15 NLT
The Fourth Sign: The Star
Matthew 2:1-12
The point of these signs is to point us to Jesus.
The Coming of Christmas: The SIGNSDownload
We have a need for Christmas because we have a need for Christ, the Savior.
The PROMISE of Christmas was foreshadowed in scripture.
Genesis 3:15
Numbers 21:7-9
Genesis 22:10-13
The PROMISE of Christmas was foretold by prophets.
Micah 5:2
Isaiah 7:14
Matthew 1: 18-23
Isaiah 9:6-7
The PROMISE of Christmas was/would be fulfilled through Jesus.
Isaiah 53:1-8
Video: Jesus in OT scripture final
God’s PROMISE of Christmas (Christ) was meant to give His people hope.
The Coming of Christmas: The PromiseDownload