Bethel Christian Center: Recent Episodes
Pastor Don Westbrook
Bethel Christian Center is a nondenominational church in Durham, North Carolina all about Christ transforming individual lives through lifting up Jesus, bringing in the broken, building up the weak, and going out into the triangle community and beyond.
lntroduction: The story of Noah and the ark is one that many are familiar with from our days in Sunday school or maybe the many movies about the story. As a result, many have forgotten that this was real event that Involved a real person, sin, Judgment and salvation. There is much controversy around the idea on a global flood destroying all living creatures with the exception of Noah and his family, However, as we take a fresh look at these events, we will see that our God is Indeed a God of Judgment but more Importantly a God that offered and still offers salvation. The question is, are you in the boat?
The story of Noah and the ark Is one that many are familiar with from our days In Sunday school or maybe the many movies about the story. As a result, many have forgotten that this was real event that Involved a real person, sin, Judgment and salvation. There Is much controversy around the idea on a global flood destroying all living creatures with the exception of Noah and his family, However, as we take a fresh look at these events, we will see that our God Is Indeed a God of Judgement but more Importantly a God that offered and still offers salvation. The question Is, Are you In the boat?
Genesis 3 is arguably the most tragic of all the chapters in the Bible. It is in this chapter that we see the tactics of Satan and the result of Adam's disobedience. Prior to this Adam and Eve had enjoyed perfect fellowship with God in a place that was created for them to enjoy. However, the enemy comes but to steal, kill and destroy but even In this tragedy, God show his mercy and foreshadows his redemptive plan for mankind.
Our society today Is fascinated with their ancestry. Companies like Ancestry.com has exploded with people exploring their heritage, even giving their DNA in hopes of learning more about their heritage. A quick search shows that learning your family history can give you a sense of Identity, make you more resilient, help you connect with others, make you a better human, and help you make good health choices. "Selecthealth.org" If knowing our natural heritage can have those benefits, how much more can knowing our spiritual heritage give the same benefits and more.
Jesus taught us many things but in the illustration of the wise and foolish builders we are challenged to listen and obey what Jesus has asked of us. Have you given thought to what will happen to your foundation when the storms of life come? Jesus is the Rock. Build on Him and in the end you will not be disappointed.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist minister and prominent activist and civil rights leader that used non violent protests, civil disobedience and legislative action to advance the rights of people of color through the civil rights act, voting rights act and fair housing act all in the mid to late 1960's. He is best known for his, "I have a dream" speech delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963. Dr. King was assassinated In Memphis, Tenn. on April 4,1968. Martin Luther King Jr. day was signed into federal law In 1986 by president Ronald Reagan. Race Relations and the divisive nature of them tend to make us want to shy away from such topics. But as in all things as followers of Christ we should k nowwhat the scriptures teach in this area and be prepared to be salt and light to the culture in this area aswell.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist minister and prominent activist and civil rights leader that used non violent protests, civil disobedience and legislative action to advance the rights of people of color through the civil rights act, voting rights act and fair housing act all in the mid to late 1960's. He is best known for his, "I have a dream" speech delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963. Dr. King was assassinated In Memphis, Tenn. on April 4,1968. Martin Luther King Jr. day was signed into federal law In 1986 by president Ronald Reagan. Race Relations and the divisive nature of them tend to make us want to shy away from such topics. But as in all things as followers of Christ we should k nowwhat the scriptures teach in this area and be prepared to be salt and light to the culture in this area aswell.
A few weeks ago the Duke basketball coach, whlle commenting on the tragic injury of the Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin, stated that life is precious. This Is very true. All human life is precious to God who created it.
Pastor Don steps down and TFN President Steve Holder installs Larry Smith as Interim Pastor
We are fasting with prayer these first 21 days of 2023.Fasting is the spiritual discipline of denying ourselves something (typically food) to feast on the things of God. Fasting and praying are Bible-based disciplines that are appropriate for all believers of all ages throughout all centuries in all parts of the world. . . Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God, and to ourselves, that we are serious about our relationship with Him. -What Christians Need to Know about Fasting and Prayer by Heather Riggleman crosswalk.com
We are very accustomed to getting the exciting news that a baby has been born by birth announcement. We may get them in the mail or see them on social media. There has never been more important announcement that that of the birth of the Savior of the world. As we read from Luke's Gospel, we find it to be not just any birth announcement but a heavenly announcement.
All other religions are man's pursuit of God. Only the God of the Bible that we serve became one of us to rescue us from sin and do what had to be done to restore the broken fellowship between himself and his creation. At the dedication of the temple when Solomon asked, "will God dwell on the earth?" He had no Idea that he indeed would through the life of Jesus the virgin born son of God!
"A kind of moral relativism has taken over. Nothing is really wrong. If I have a good reason to do it, it's not sin." That is the modem attitude toward the righteousness of God. I get the impression that the church in our day avoids at all costs the idea of sin and guilt and therefore tries to entertain lost sinners into heaven. However, there is no escaping the fact that when God became flesh so He could be with us He did so in order to "save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Will Pounds (c) 2006
One of the traditions of the Christmas season is the giving of Gifts. This tradition can be traced to the original nativity when the wise men came and brought gifts as part of their worship of the Christ child. Then there is St. Nicholas who was a priest around 300 AD and was known for his generosity and would slip coins in the shoes of children when they left them out. Unfortunately, in our over commercialized nation the idea of giving gifts and Santa Clause has replaced the real meaning of this season. Nevertheless, we love to give gifts to our loved ones, especially our children and our heavenly father is no exception.
The Gospel of Christ means new creation. The old is passing away and the new has begun in each believer who places their faith in Christ Jesus. Making all things new means a new body-and a new soul. We get a taste of new creation now by means of the Holy Spirit working through God's word. The Spirit is conforming us to the image of the Son, making us new creatures whose desire is to love God and others. This is God's transforming work in us. Today we will look at four ways in which God will make all things new.
Little is accomplished in leaving a field to itself. Left to itself after years of baking in the heat of the sun the field will become hard. The same is true in the heart of man. Left to itself little will be accomplished. In refusing to break up the ground of our heart on a regular basis will result in our heart hardening to that which God desires to do. Have we regular basis experienced barrenness in our lives? A heart that is not humble is like fallow-ground, untilled. It is unfruitful, overgrown with thorns and weeds, and if not renewed with grace, the rain and sunshine are lost upon it. It is time once again to look into our hearts, and to accept the plow of God's Word and Spirit.
Following a confrontation with religious leaders, Jesus leaves Capemaum and heads north to the Gentile territory of Tyre and Sidon along the Mediterranean Sea. That He sought a residence in which to stay, in hopes that no one could find Him, indicates that the purpose of our Lord was to seek some rest from the pressing multitudes and debates that He had encountered (Mark 7:24). A Syrophoenician woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit, kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. We will look at the many obstacles she had to overcome and the display of faith she exhibited.
Following a confrontation with religious leaders, Jesus leaves Capemaum and heads north to the Gentile territory of Tyre and Sidon along the Mediterranean Sea. That He sought a residence in which to stay, in hopes that no one could find Him, indicates that the purpose of our Lord was to seek some rest from the pressing multitudes and debates that He had encountered (Mark 7:24). A Syrophoenician woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit, kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. We will look at the many obstacles she had to overcome and the display of faith she exhibited.
Paul prays two prayers for the Ephesians. A prayer of enlightenment - 1: 15-23, and a prayer of enablement - 3: 14-21. In his second prayer he prays for the Holy Spirit's power to fi II every believer, and that the inner person might know spiritual strength. The purpose of Ephesians is to equip, empower, and mature God's people that we would extend Christ's victory over evil (Ephesians 3: I 0-20; 6: 12 -20).
At creation, God formed mankind in His image and likeness. Through the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the garden, sin entered the world and deformed God's image in mankind. Now through Christ's redemption on the cross, God's plan is to reform His image in His children, bringing us into conformity with the image of His Son by the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
At creation, God formed mankind in His image and likeness. Through the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the garden, sin entered the world and deformed God's image in mankind. Now through Christ's redemption on the cross, God's plan is to reform His image in His children, bringing us into conformity with the image of His Son by the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
The story of the rich man and Lazarus Is one of the most sobering parables in the bible. The reality of our choices on earth, where we place our trust and the realities of heaven and hell are more vividly stated here than anywhere in the bible.
The story of the rich man and Lazarus Is one of the most sobering parables in the bible. The reality of our choices on earth, where we place our trust and the realities of heaven and hell are more vividly stated here than anywhere in the bible.
Divine healing has become a very controversial subject in the church On one extreme are those that believe that miracles ceased with the deaths of the Apostle. On the other extreme are those that believe faith is the absolute in demanding healing from God. Let us examine the matter delicately as some face uncertain futures lest God intervenes.
Divine healing has become a very controversial subject in the church On one extreme are those that believe that miracles ceased with the deaths of the Apostle. On the other extreme are those that believe faith is the absolute in demanding healing from God. Let us examine the matter delicately as some face uncertain futures lest God intervenes.
Being born again ultimately is the process of being transformed from death to eternal life. The process of moving from the kingdom of darkness and into the kingdom of light. It is embracing, and accepting the foundational truth of the Gospel, that Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, died on the cross, was buried, but rose again three days later. By this He paid the ultimate price for our sin once and for all so that we might be saved from eternal damnation. Jesus explains this process in His conversation with Nicodemus.
Being born again ultimately is the process of being transformed from death to eternal life. The process of moving from the kingdom of darkness and into the kingdom of light. It is embracing, and accepting the foundational truth of the Gospel, that Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, died on the cross, was buried, but rose again three days later. By this He paid the ultimate price for our sin once and for all so that we might be saved from eternal damnation. Jesus explains this process in His conversation with Nicodemus.
In Corinth Paul met a couple named Priscilla and Aquila. The three of them built tents together to earn a living. After about a year and a half, Paul, Priscilla and Aquila traveled to the city of Ephesus together. Priscilla and Aquila stayed on in Ephesus to make tents and tell people about Jesus while Paul returned to Antioch. A great teacher named Apollos came to Ephesus; Priscilla and Aquila, after hearing him, invited him to their house and explained to him the "way of God more accurately." Apollos was grateful and went on to Corinth where he continued to share the good news of Jesus.
David Smith encourages us that God is active and that we should wait on Him, expecting to hear His voice and measure it with the Scripture.
The dove often symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and in studying the Biblical background about the dove, we can see why this symbol was chosen and we are reminded of the Holy Spirit's qualities. The first emblem under which we see the Holy Spirit in the New Testament is the dove descending upon the head of Jesus at His baptism on the banks of the Jordan.
One of the biggest reasons for the condition of the American Christian today is spiritual immaturity. After instructing the believers on the fellowship of the brethren, walking in the light and dealing with sin, John deals with the stages of spiritual growth. Unfortunately, many followers of Christ never mature much past the point of salvation. We will take a look at the stages of growth and their characteristics.
If there is one thing that satan will use to keep you ineffective for the kingdom of God, it is your past. After all, satan is called the accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10). The Apostle Paul had a horrific past as a persecutor of the early church but was used by God to evangelize and establish churches. Paul chose to forget the past failures and successes and pursue the call of Christ in his life.
Faith in the natural is defined as, the assent of the mind to the truth of a proposition or statement for which there is not complete evidence; belief in general. In the book of Hebrews, the Bible defines faith as the evidence of things hoped for the substance of things not seen. The fact is that we all exercise natural faith frequently in our lives. Every time we drive a car we have faith that the brakes will work. When we get on an airplane, we have faith in the mechanics of the plane and the skill of the pilot to fly the plane. One day our faith will be our sight and calm our fears and confirm all of our faith but until then the scriptures tell us that we walk by faith and not by sight and that without faith it is impossible to please God but what exactly is faith? It is a broad topic and could be preached on a full year and not fully understand what it is but this morning we will look at 3 areas faith in the life of the believer.
The New Testament uses several unique images to represent the person and work of the Holy Spirit. One image shows the Holy Spirit as fire. On Pentecost, following the sound of rushing wind filling the house where the apostles were staying, what appeared to be tongues of flame rested on each of them. They were immediately filled with the Holy Spirit, and their lives were changed forever. Fire is a wonderful picture of the work of the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Dub Karikker preaches a special and timely message on freedom to bring all things into perspective.
Jesus uses the metaphor of wind in John chapter 3 in explaining the new birth. A we look at the parallel between the wind and the Holy Spirit, we understand in a better way the workings of the Spirit.
The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have always been familiar, mysterious and ominous figures in culture, but practically what do they mean for us? Is there anything we can glean from the scripture that applies to our hope and future? Today, we’ll briefly consider how this frightful picture of impending judgment should reassure us that God will ultimately punish evil and encourage us in the meantime to remain steadfast in our faith in Jesus Christ.
Elictia Hart, having just finished her last class at Duke's Doctoral Divinity of Ministry program, ministers again at Bethel for His glory.
If you are feeling dry today, or long to see fruitfulness in your life again, the River of God-the Holy Spirit-can flow once more through your life. In this study we will look at several biblical insights about the River of Life. Numerous references to a river oflife are found throughout the bible. The theme begins in Genesis as four rivers flow through the garden of Eden and continues to the final chapter of scripture that describes a river, clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God.
The workings of the Holy Spirit are invisible, glorious, and gentle, and within them, He never tells us about Himself. He comes to glorify Jesus-helping us to see Jesus more, to understand Jesus better, to respond to Jesus more obediently, and to love Jesus with a deeper heart of commitment. So, the symbols of the Holy Spirit become essential to our gaining an understanding of what He's like, not only in an objective way of analyzing truth, but also in the subjective way that He comes to penetrate our lives. ---Jack Hayford
With God's guidance and her endowed wisdom and ingenuity, Jochebed, the mother of Moses devised a plan to save her son. It was her invincible and positive faith that gave her the strength, wisdom and courage to carry it out. God was preparing to bring Israel out of Egypt. God had a man; God had a mother to carry this out. She conceived Moses, she concealed him, she committed him, she cultured him.
Up to this point, God had fought for Israel. Israel was commanded to stand still and see the Salvation of the Lord; but the command now was to go out and fight. There is an immense difference between Justification and Sanctification. The one is Christ fighting for us; the other, the Holy Spirit fighting in us. Amalek pictures the old carnal nature. God did not destroy Amalek, but determined to have war with him from generation to generation (Ex. 17: 16). He was to dwell in the land, but not reign in it (Rom. 6: 11-14). The sin nature dwells in the Believer, but dwells and reigns in the unbeliever. Exodus 17: 12, gives us the blueprint for victory.
Antoinette challenges us on our daily decisions and if they line up with the roadmap of God's Word, using the story of King Saul as a cautionary tale.
It is fitting that we end this series with the commandment not to tell a lie since the fall of man was based on a lie of the devil. It was that lie that Eve believed that separated man from God. It was that lie that led to sin that is at the root cause of violence, war, poverty, racism and all of the other social ills that our world deals with. A lie is defined as an untrue statement with the intent to deceive. It is the deception of the lies that God hates and that we as followers of Christ should avoid.
While most people including Christians would not go out and steal from a department store or from someone else, when we look at the broader implications of the commandment, we find many areas where even Christians justify theft. In our culture much of the theft and cheating comes from a desire to have more than we need or simply trying to keep up with the Jones. Even our government today fuels the divide between the "Haves" and the "Have Nots", feeding the sin of covetousness.
A few translations including the KJV state this commandment as "Thou shall no Kill". However, most translations read murder rather than kill. The definition of murder is the unlawful killing of another human being without justification or valid excuse and especially with malice. We will see in the scriptures many times when the killing of another human being was allowed but there was justification and it was never with malice. However, in our society today, the incidents of murder are ever increasing and there seems to be little to no value in human life. This is fueled mostly by the lack of a biblical worldview concerning life and who gives it, when it begins and who can take it. When we come to Christ and believe that all mankind are image bearers of God and have worth it begins to shift how we view life.
There are 3 institutions that have been ordained by God; the family, the church, and the government and without a doubt, satan has worked overtime on the family. God's design of one man and one woman is still the standard for a healthy stable home for raising children and for a stable society. However, we have watched that break down exponentially fast over the last few decades and we now have children running the home rather than the parents. This lack of respect for parental authority has now spilled over into our schools and the streets where we expect teachers and police to clean up the mess that has been made.
There is no doubt that today in the United States there is very little regard for the idea of the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship unto God. We will see how over the years that Sunday has become just another day to stay home, work, have recreation or play sports. Although the strict observance that was required of Israel under the old covenant does not apply today as Paul states in Colossians 2:16. The principle of rest and a day set aside (Holy) to worship and remember God and all he has done is still beneficial to us today. "He that can take rest is greater than he that can take cities." Benjamin Franklin
In view of the second coming of the Lord, there are four snares to guard against: Indifference, Negligence, Self-righteous, and Indolence, found in Matthew 24 and 25. Today we will look at the snare of indifference. Indifference: A lack of interest, enthusiasm or concern for something or someone. We are living in a society when indifference and heartlessness has become normative. The church is characterized by its indifference and getting too comfortable in its culture and success. "The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing." Albert Einstein
There is nothing that identifies a person more clearly than their name. The same can be said of God. Within the name of God is all of his attributes. We live in a world where people are quick to defend their name against attack or false hoods but do not hesitate to take the name of the most high God in vain. You can hardly watch a movie today that they do not throw in a GD where it appears just to defame the name of God. However, we will see as we look at all the implications of the commandment, there are many ways in which we do not revere the name as we should.
I think it no coincidence that the first 2 commandments given by God concern our allegiance to him. The keeping or violation of all the other commandments hinge on these two. There is always something in our lives competing for our affection. The question for all of us is that do we have God in his proper place within our hearts and lives. When we do, we can accept the concept of "I am therefore you shall". Certainly, since we have no wooden statues or images in our home that we bow down to, we have no concern with the second commandment. However, when you begin to explore the implication of worshipping the right God in the wrong manner, we begin to see that we may not be so free from the second commandment.
As we look around at our society today we see the result of neglecting God's perfect law. In this age of grace we do not hear much about the Ten commandments even in the church unless it is in a political conversation about how they should still be in the schools or in the courthouse. Although, I do not disagree with that notion, the reality is that they would have much more effect on our culture if they were in our hearts and lived as such. The prophet Jeremiah told us that in the new covenant that God would put his law in our minds and write them on our hearts. Jer. 31:33. In this study we will take a fresh look at God's perfect law and see that as the Psalmist wrote, the law of the Lord is perfect , converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure making wise the simple. Ps. 19:7
Even though the world scene looks as if God has been on an extended vacation, David shows us that God's plans have not failed and shall not fail. Everything is under His sovereign control and He will ultimately triumph in His ordained time. Thus, David appeals to the rebellious nations to bow before the Almighty God while they still have time. In Psalm 2, the wicked meditates (NASB = "devising," NIV = "plot"; same Hebrew word) on how to cast off the rule of God. Steven J. Cole Psalm 2 is the most frequently quoted psalm in the New Testament.
The great British preacher Martyn Lloyd-Jones wrote: "Prayer is beyond any question the highest activity of the human soul. Man is at his greatest and highest when, upon his knees, he comes face to face with God." One of the greatest encouragements to pray or the greatest display of our need for prayer is the fact of Jesus' private prayer. Throughout His life on earth, Jesus seized the opportunity to be alone with the Father, praying in secret. Jesus invites us to join Him in His secret place. May we not allow present-day distractions to stop us from spending time alone with God.
When reading the Psalms, you will come upon the word "Selah." While there are different interpretations of the word, one interpretation of "Selah" is "pause and reflect." Most scholars think Selah speaks of a pause to meditate on the words just spoken. The new year seems like the perfect time to pause and reflect. To reflect on God, rest, and worship. To reflect on what has happened over the last year. To reflect on what God is doing and what God is going to do. Selah appears 74 times in the Old Testament -- 71 times in the Psalms and 3 times in Habakkuk. "All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit queitly in a room alone." --Blaise Pascal (1623-1662)
The parables in Luke 15 were given in response to the criticism of the scribes and Pharisees that Jesus had received sinners and even ate with them. Jesus had made it clear that He came to save sinners (Luke 19:10). Jesus saw what these sinners really were: lost sheep who needed a shepherd; lost coins who had value and needed to be put into circulation; lost sons who needed to be in fellowship with the father.
Many Christmas sermons focus on the WHO of the Christmas story and the wonderful lessons of Joseph, Mary, Shepherds, and the Baby Jesus and the other inspiring characters of the Christmas story. Other sermons emphasize the WHEN, the coming of Jesus foretold through the prophets, the times in which he was born. The HOW of Christmas, the virgin birth, the flight to Egypt, the search of Herod, the worship of the Magi. WHERE involves Bethlehem, Egypt, Jerusalem, and Israel. But this morning we will look at the all-important question, WHY?
What better way is there to celebrate the incarnation of our Lord than to meet Him at the Table? The Word took on flesh and dwelt among us; at the Table, we pray for ordinary bread and wine to take on Spirit and become for us the body and blood of Christ.
When you ask anybody if things are getting better or worse in society, they have no hesitation in saying things are getting worse. This simple perspective is backed up by what we see described in scripture, and our society’s tendency to become more and more fractured through the prevalence of individually personalized technology and media. Can we expect things to improve through governmental systems or what we see on instagram and facebook? We can hope and can optimistically look to be salt and light, but without God’s faithful remnant building back that foundation of family that God established, we will not see the type of change that will last. Even if you have been without a strong family, Christ is the beginning of all things new, and with you things can be reset going forward! Thankfully, we are all ministers of reconciliation!
This passage teaches that we have been delivered, that we are being delivered, and that someday we will be delivered. Paul knew that God's work in our lives happens in three different verb tenses. God works in us past, present, and future.
11.7.21 Sunday Service Ralph Thompson encourages us all to be an active kingdom witness!
For more information about Emergency Chaplains, visit: http://EChap.org
Our life (time, talent and treasure) is a seed. Where we choose to plant our seed determines the growth that will be produced in our lives. Some people choose to sow their lives into other ground, like work or sports, and as time goes by, they wonder why they have less and less time to spend with their family and are even more in debt than ever before. That is because they are sowing their seed into other ground and not into God's kingdom (His House).
In midst of brokenness, failures, sin, mistakes, and hurts, Jesus restores. When God restores, He does not take you back to the way you were before you experienced being broken. God's restoration leaves you better than you once were. Zechariah 9:12 says, "Even today I declare that I will restore double to you." God takes the pain, hurt, and brokenness that may have been caused by you or others, and puts your life back in order, adjusts what is wrong, and brings you to a place of amazing recovery and wholeness. It is through the cross and the resurrection that restoration is possible.
If I asked everyone in here what is the Glory of God? I would get many diverse answers. I get a vision of a bright light with an image in it when I think about the Glory of God. We often say, "I want to see the Glory of God". Even Moses asked God to show him his Glory. Ex. 33:18-23. What exactly is the Glory of God? We really don't know but I think Pastor Tony Evans gave as good of an explanation as I have ever heard. He simply described it as "God on display". I begin to think about that and there are several areas in which God is on display but this morning we will look at three.
Ahab was the seventh king of Israel, the son and successor of King Omri and the husband of Jezebel of Sidon. He lived in Samaria, the royal capital, and built a temple and altar to Baal there. Ahab, along with Jezebel, established idolatry; these actions led to severe consequences for Israel. Ahab was most wicked (1 Kings 16:33). God answered Israel's worse king, by raising up one of the greatest and most powerful prophets in the Old Testament.
A look. A look which was thus the turning point of Peter's life. A look that is only mentioned by St. Luke. A look when there was no opportunity of speaking. A look that led Peter from the curses of denial to the tears of penitence. A most touching incident.
The Ark of the covenant was captured by the Philistines (1 Sam 4:1-10). An outbreak of tumors and disease afflicted them, forcing them to return the ark to the Israelites. The ark was sent to Kiriath Jearim to the house of Abinadad.
When you become a Christian, something truly amazing happens: God comes to live inside your heart. You become the home of God. And since we are the home of Christ, we need to make sure He's comfortable in us. Is He welcomed in every room? To peek in your closets? See inside your pantry? Look under your bed?
The Christian needs the power of the Holy Ghost for exploits in the service of the Lord. Enduement with power from on high makes a great difference in a believer's life, ministry, home, and in every area of his/her life. The spiritually feeble believer becomes dynamic; the lukewarm becomes aggressive in evangelism while ordinary believer becomes mighty instruments in the hand of God.
"Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered" (Psa. 32:1). "He who covers his transgressions shall not prosper..." (Prov. 28:13). The former passage commends the covering of sin; the latter one condemns such. How are these two inspired oracles to be reconciled? The solution to this seeming difficulty is quite simple actually. In the former text, a blessing is pronounced upon him who has sin covered by the blood of Christ and the means of God's forgiveness. Let's look at several ways man seeks to cover his sin.
One of the most popular patriotic anthems of all time, this song is often performed at the funerals of American soldiers and statesmen, presidential nominating conventions and inaugurations, and at Independence Day church services and festivities. Lyricist Julia Ward obviously wrote this hymn to show her faith in God during the Civil War. Let's look at each stanza.
When we think of these two kings--Saul and David--we immediately think of the drastic differences between these men. Saul's failed leadership was monumental. By contrast, David was a man after God's own heart. Even though David had a number of faults, he was very successful as a leader. Why the difference?
There is a lot of pressure today on Fathers, particularly those trying to be the spiritual leader and covering of their home. Today we will just ask what does the Lord require of us as fathers and look at what we can learn from 2 fathers of the Bible.
There is much confusion today on the name of Jesus. Even those inside the church have a tendency to drift into a soft, “name it and claim it”, “hocus pocus”, kind of incantation mentality.. How should we think of praying in and representing the Name? How do we biblically get to the point of praying like Jesus did “Not my will, but Thy Will be done?”
When Jesus walked the earth, His Anointing was evident by the miracles He performed and the live He touched. From demons to disease, no malady or evil presence could withstand the power that flowed from Jesus Christ. As a follower of Christ, you have access to the same anointing. Rather than being overly concerned about being relevant, professional, or providing entertainment, our desire should be to have the power and anointing of God in our services.
In the fast-paced, tech-saturated, attention-deficit-disordered culture in which we find ourselves, Christians need to recover the art of a slow meal around a table with people we care about. Sharing tables nourishes us both physically and spiritually. We need a recovery of the spiritual significance of what we eat, where we eat, and with whom we eat with. The dinner table is a place of connection and blessing. Perhaps before we invite people to Jesus or invite them to church, we should invite them to dinner.
Antoinette uses a visual illustration to give us a real look at how we can fall into the same trap as the rich young ruler.
John had the mother of Jesus committed to his care, while Jesus was on the cross. Where do we stand with Christ today?
The need to address the vital role of the Holy Spirit is as relevant today as it has been throughout church history. The Holy Spirit is how we experience the presence of God in our daily lives as Christ followers. Through the power of the Holy Spirit Jesus is transforming hearts and lives around the world. The Holy Spirit is described in the Bible as a power at work in the lives of people, dealing with them and revealing more fully God and His will for mankind.
In Corinth Paul met a couple named Priscilla and Aquila. The three of them built tents together to earn a living. After about a year and a half Paul, Priscilla and Aquila traveled to the city of Ephesus together. Priscilla and Aquila stayed on in Ephesus to make tents and tell people about Jesus while Paul returned to Antioch. A great teacher came to Ephesus, Priscilla and Aquila invited him to their house and explained to him the way of God more accurately. Apollos was grateful and went on to Corinth where he continued to share the good news of Jesus.
The vision of the valley of dry bones has been variously interpreted. Some see it as (1) teaching the postexilic return of the exiles (2) as an analogy for spiritual regeneration and the birth of the church (3) and dispensational interpreters see here the resurrection and the restoration of end times national Israel. Contextually, it is designed to be a message of hope to the exiled Jews. "SFL Bible" Ezekiel is given two symbols to illustrate the restoration of Israel. These symbols refer to the whole house of Israel (v. 11). But surely there is a present-day application (1 Corinthians 10:11).
The resurrection is more than just an event that happened once in history. It's the source of the power you can experience in your own life, every day. The same resurrection power that brought Jesus from death to life is available to you, and if you tap into it, you'll see an amazing transformation in your own life, too.
Your most important enterprise as a Christian is to find and to follow the will of God. Romans 2:2 says that we are "to prove what is that good and acceptable will of God." It is one thing not to know the will of God and refuse it. The classic example in all of the Bible of a believer who knows the will of God, and yet doesn't want to do it, is found within the pages of the prophecy of Jonah.
Pastor preaches the missionary heart of God through book of Jonah, after Collin and Madison invite the church to participate in a virtual mission trip to Mali.
In this fast paced and stressed out world that we live in today people are looking for rest and relaxation in all the wrong places. There are new products and gimmicks constantly coming out and some seek spiritual rest in some new age movement. However, you will never know true rest until you find it in the one that created and to have rest in him.
Knowing the difference between the things we can control and the things we can’t is very important. “Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don’t.” Steve Maraboli
Daniel 10 reveals to us a cosmic struggle between the forces of good and evil. It tells of angels and demons locked in a kind of mortal combat somewhere between heaven and earth. This is like Star Wars only this isn't science fiction. It's real. God's church is advancing around the world, and dark principalities are indeed at work. Whenever the Lord makes an advance into the realm of darkness, the empire of Satan always strikes back. -Keep Believing Ministries
What effect should the holiness of God have upon the life of the believer? Isaiah’s vision of God’s holiness had a profoundly humbling effect upon him. Does it do the same for us today? How can a greater understanding of the infinite holiness of God create in our hearts a deeper reverence toward God? What impact should the holiness of God have upon our everyday lives?
The phrase “crossover” appears 48 times in the Bible. This idea is woven like a thread through the fabric of scripture. Jesus used it himself when he challenged his disciples to “crossover” to the other side of the lake. There are times in our lives that calls upon us all to be cross over people, to leave our own comfort zones, step out on faith and cross over. The New Year provides us with a crossover moment, it affords us with great opportunities. O. S. Hawkins
Jentezen Franklin in his book, “Fasting,” mentions several benefits of fasting: (1) A fresh encounter with God. (2) It releases the anointing of God. (3) It releases the favor of God. (4) Releases the blessings of God. (5) It brings one into a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord. (6) It is a secret source of power. (7) Your spirit becomes uncluttered by the things of this world and amazingly sensitive to the things of God. Someone said that: Prayer, “the hand of faith strengthening its hold on the invisible God.” Fasting, “the hand of flesh loosening its hold on the visible things of the world.”
Bible scholars have concluded from much research that, hundreds of years before Jesus was even born, more than 300 prophecies were recorded to tell of His coming, His life and journey to the cross, and the power of His Resurrection. These prophecies point to the exact location, circumstances, and even timing of Christ’s birth. God alone is the only One who could plan those specific details and ensure they all come to pass. How can anyone think that Jesus just “happened” to be in the right place at the right time? (Illustration: The stack of silver dollars in Texas.) The decree of the Roman Emperor helped on the fulfillment of Micah 5:2. The imperial order, Joseph traveling 90 grueling miles, all designed by God.
I remember a few years ago at DMIP during the Christmas season that Dub Karriker said something that is very true. He said that the Christmas season forces our culture and the world to deal with Jesus. They can call it Happy holidays and do their best to remove Jesus from the season but even in doing that they are confronted with who he is and his Gospel. However, if you were to ask, most today do not know the full implications of what Jesus came to earth to do. If asked, you would get broad answers like he came to save the world and man from sin but as we see from the scriptures, the mission of Jesus is very clear and specific. This morning we will look at 10 reasons why Jesus came to earth, 9 of which are directly from the Lord himself.
Special guest Mike Manuel, brings a word of encouragement to the church to remain steadfast focused on Jesus during perilous last days.
Gratitude arises from the lived perception and acceptance of all of life as grace as an undeserved and unearned gift from the Father; an acknowledgement of the giver. Research has shown that giving thanks makes people happier and more resilient, it strengthens relationships, it improves health, and it reduces stress. -An article by Psychologists Dr. Michael McCollough of Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas and Robert Emmons of the University of California.
Peter knows how important faith is and he gives us a great picture of faith, a faith that we can anchor deep with, and a faith which will hold us during the storms of life. He is writing to a people who are finding it increasingly difficult to live their faith. In the matter of faith and unbelief men may be divided into four classes.
The believer's mission is to introduce others to Jesus. The most productive time of introducing others to Jesus for many Christians is the first two years after they become a Christ-follower. One reason because this is the period of time in which they have the most vital connection with non-believers. After the first two years, most new believers spend more and more time with Christians. They cultivate friendships with other believers. The pool of people they associate with who don't know Christ shrinks. We can overcome this tendency by intentionally cultivating relationships with non-believers, including them in our daily/weekly activities.
Almost all men have something wherein to glory: physical strength, religion, money, family, talents, position, social status, fame, or even their knowledge.
In this story found in John 8, Jesus confronts a band of cold, self-righteous prudes and a woman who was guilty of open sexual sin, and handles both with such wisdom and grace that the story has become a favorite of many. The motive of the Pharisees was not passion for holiness, but a desire to entrap Jesus in a dilemma (v.6).
Christian believers today seem to have a full understanding of God the Father and God the Son, but God the Holy Spirit seems to be a more confusing and misunderstood person. It is vitally important to the believer today to understand the purpose and power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus himself makes it very clear what the role of the Holy Spirit will be during the age of grace. Everything that is accomplished today to advance the Kingdom of God is done through the work of the Holy Spirit.
God had made covenants of blessing with Israel, but they were conditional. Because of blatant disobedience, the pleasurable aspects of blessing would be replaced by punishment. The moral decline of the kingdom of Judah would lead to its defeat and captivity. This book is literally titled Oh My Gosh! How Could This Have Happened? Lamentations and the United States.
It is time for the church to rise and declare the sound of praise that changes the atmosphere inside the building and lives that change the environment outside!
Communism, Humanism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, does not have the answer to the meaning of life. In the Bible, and there only, do we find the answer to: where did we come from, why are we here, and where are we going? As we look at a few verses in the book of Ecclesiastes we find that King Solomon came to the conclusion that life is meaningless apart from God.
Job is introduced as an extremely rich man who is also God-fearing. Subjected to the loss of all he owned; Job still keeps his attitude of wholehearted devotion to God. Even when Job is subjected to personal physical suffering, he maintains his integrity and does not renounce God. In this study we will look at FIVE MISTAKES IN JOB.
I’m profoundly impressed with the unlimited resources of the God of the Bible. He makes an ocean, makes it so deep no man can fathom it. He makes a mountain, makes it so large no one can measure or weigh it. He makes a flower, scatters multiplied millions, no one to admire but Himself. “Makes” grace, makes it without sides or bottom and leaves the top off; Pours salvation forth like a river.
Gideon was a military leader, judge and prophet whose calling and victory over the Midianites are recounted in chapters 6 to 8 of the Book of Judges. Gideon is among the brightest luminaries of the Old Testament history.
Throughout the New Testament, water for drinking is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of God that comes to the sinner and shows him his need of salvation, John 16:8. It is the Holy Spirit that applies the Word of God in conviction, John 6:44. It is the Spirit that baptizes the new believer into the body of Christ, 1 Cor. 12:13. It is the Spirit that seals that believer, Eph. 4:30. It is the Spirit of God that fills the believer and uses him for the glory of God, Eph. 5:18.
Where there is the anointed Word of God presented with power, love, and compassion, and where there are hearts turned to the Lord in repentance, the power of the Lord will be present to save and heal.
Today we look squarely and honestly into the center of the dark clouds and the raging storm in the life of Job. Job is portrayed as a wealthy man of upright character who loves God. Yet God allows Satan to destroy his flocks, his possessions, his children, and his health. Job refuses to give up on God, even when he does not understand why this is happening to him. We, too, must trust God when we do not understand the difficulties we face.
Job was an enormously wealthy man. He owned seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen and five hundred donkeys, and had a large number of servants. He lived in Southeast Palestine nearly three thousand years ago during the time of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He had seven sons and three daughters, but there was much more to his legacy than his bank account. Job is an example of a godly father that courageously led his family. The opening of the book of Job gives us important information concerning his character and his example as a father (Job 1:1). According to Job 1:1-5, he was an exceptional father.
We certainly live in days when the spirit of the good Samaritan is needed, and the place it should be displayed is in the lives of Christians. By using a simple story, Jesus shows that enemies can prove to be neighbors, that compassion has no boundaries, and that judging people on the basis of their religion or ethnicity will leave us dying in a ditch. "Racism is not a skin problem, it's a sin problem." This is not a political divide, it's a spiritual divide. If you have cops that don't understand that their authority is limited to the law and you have a guy that puts his knee on a guy's neck and kills him, that's a sin problem, if you have people who take to the streets and they think they have a right to steal other people's property, indiscriminately, whether the property is owned by blacks or whites, that a sin problem. We've got to get to the heart of the problem." -Mike Huckabee
We need unity and prayer now more than ever if we expect to see evangelism similar to Pentecost.
In describing the Holy Spirit’s coming, Jesus specifically said, "Rivers of living water shall flow from the inner being of all those who believe me" (John 7:37-38). On Pentecost, what Joel had prophesied, Peter preached: "God has poured out His Spirit; a stream of restoring, healing power is released to mankind!"
After being chased out of Thessalonica & Berea for preaching the good news about Jesus, the apostle Paul spent a few days in the city of Athens. While waiting he did a little sightseeing. Paul came to Athens as a sightseer and became a soul winner. Paul did not purpose to evangelize these Gentiles, but he could not help but do so when he was deeply stirred in his soul over their rampant idolatry. Paul's speech becomes a model for how to witness to the educated post-Christian mind, even as it spoke to Theophilus and his fellow seekers with their first-century pre-Christian minds; proclaiming the Gospel with Integrity (17:16-21)
Mother’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the role our mothers play in our lives. For the vast majority of people their mum is a faithful, caring, loving person whose nurturing hand is one that shapes and influences them for the rest of their lives. This post for Mothers’ Day looks at the influence that a faithful mother and a faithful grandmother had on the life of someone who became a significant figure in the early church.
Escaping from Egypt is only the first half of the exodus. There is the freedom from: from oppression, and from the power of sin. This aspect of liberation, as wonderful as it is, is only half the deal. In the Scriptures, more emphasis is placed on the freedom for: for worship, for flourishing, for growth in obedience, joy and glory. Human beings are not designed to be free from all constraint. Everybody serves somebody. So, the point of the exodus is not just for Israel to find deliverance from serving the old master. It is for them to find delight in serving the new one.
In last week’s study, we looked at the first step to freedom is recognizing areas where we are imprisoned. Understand, where there is a problem, hope begins with acknowledging the problem. Then, Christian freedom is being free from guilt, the power of sin, the wrath of God and the tyranny of Satan. We also examined the source of true freedom: (1) Truth, Jesus is truth; (2) then Son of God; true freedom comes only from a relationship with Jesus Christ; (3) the Holy Spirit, 2 Corinthians 3:17 tells us, “where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty.” Then we need to understand that God gives us the free will to either accept or reject this freedom.
All liberty is precious, but political and physical freedom, are freedoms merely of the second order. Freedom of the first order is spiritual freedom, and this is transcendent. Superior Today, many people are living in spiritual slavery without realizing it. They chase false gods of money, success, personal comfort and romantic love—only to realize they still have an emptiness that can’t be filled by any of those things. In John 8, Jesus tells us in precise detail, how to be free.
Today we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus is alive! The tomb is empty! Jesus came out of the tomb, victorious over death and the grave. The same supernatural power that raised Christ from the dead is the same resurrection power that He wants to work in our life every single day. His power in our lives enables us to live a productive life. Christ conquered sin in our lives. The area of your Christian life where you're struggling does not need to be a struggle anymore.
We are dealing with arguably the biggest crisis in most of our lifetimes. The Corona virus is spreading rapidly throughout the nation, state and right here in Durham. Many have lost their jobs and are worried about how they are going to make ends meet. These circumstances can lead to worry, anxiety and yes fear. We know that the scriptures have a lot to tell us about fear and we have seen many posts on social media reminding us not to fear. Some say that not to feat is mentioned 365 times in the Bible. However, we as believers are not immune to dealing with worry and fear during such extraordinary times. With all the reminders on social media and the many scriptures on fear, we can feel like defeated Christians if we have worry and fear in times like these. God is not afraid of your fear.
British historian Herbert Butterfield of the University of Cambridge, wrote, “Sometimes it is only by a cataclysm that man can make his escape from the net which he has taken so much trouble to weave around himself.” He goes on to say, “sheer grimness of suffering brings men sometimes into a profounder understanding of human destiny.” Robert Nicholson of San Jose State University wrote, “Sometimes the most important ingredient for spiritual renewal is a cataclysmic event.” In writing an article on “A Coronavirus Great Awakening?” he continues, “Today the world faces a moment of cataclysm. The pandemic has remade everyday life and wrecked the global economy in a way that feels apocalyptic. So, I ask the question, could a plague of biblical proportion be America’s best hope for religious revival? Let us look at the means for a great awakening and the healing of our land.
The God who created the universe left His fingerprints everywhere! Creation sings of her Creator! Creation’s song is so loud and clear that the apostle Paul would write that we have no excuse for not knowing God. Romans 1:19–20 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
In a culture that is changing, there are some areas where the church should not! There are some things that should be non-negotiables when it comes to our faith. We have heard that the topic of the blood of Christ, the Cross and hell should be avoided. Therefore, some churches are choosing not to display a cross. Unfortunately, the idea of the Altar, and more specifically the Altar call has become less and less common in the church of America. This morning we will take a look at the Altar of the Old Testament and the Altar call of the church today.
As is true in most of the prophets, Zephaniah’s writings has three components: 1) the pronouncement of specific and often universal judgement for sin; 2) an appeal for repentance because God is righteous and willing to forgive; 3) a promise that the remnant who have made God their refuge will be saved. God, upon their repentance, bids Judah to sing, to shout, to rejoice with all their hearts. And God joins in the celebration. In jubilation God sings and dances and shouts for joy as He tells them of His love (3:14-17). Zephaniah gives us three characteristics Of those to whom verse 17 applies: if you are calling on Him and seeking to serve Him v. 9, If your pride has been broken and you have come to Him humbly seeking forgiveness vs. 11-12, if you are growing in holiness by obeying His commands v. 13.
Isaiah 54:1-3 opens with a paradoxical command: "Sing, O barren, you who have not borne! Break forth into singing. ... For you shall expand to the right and to the left, and your descendants will inherit the nations." The irony here is that no one would direct a despairing reject to sing. In ancient Israel, a woman without children was disenfranchised, suspect of spiritual unworthiness and potentially subject to divorce. Yet the prophet commands the woman to sing and, incredibly, directs her to start preparing a nursery for there are babies (plural) coming! (See verses 2-5.) A tapestry of joy is prophesied, complete with promises of widespread fruit and joyous consequences flowing from the midst of the singer's song. The distinctive thing about Isaiah's words is that the song he calls for is not a joyous response to an impending birth. The song declares the promise and sets the atmosphere for its fulfillment! -Jack Hayford
Dear Podcast listeners, due to the audio quality and visual nature of this message, please see the video version at BethelDurham.com/media
Do you need a breakthrough? If so, you’re not alone. We all have seasons when we’ve sown the seed of God’s Word, tended it with faith and patience; and we know that harvest time is here. We perceive in our spirits that our “due season” (Galatians 6:9) has come and it’s time for us to be enjoying the fruit of our faith, moving on to new phases of God’s plan for our lives.
Todd brings an on-time and challenging message of eternity, and the choice we need to make today!
Against all odds, Jehoshaphat the king of Judah was victorious against a formidable enemy. The king winning the battle with God's help is not unusual for the nation of Israel. The method by which the battle was won is quite unusual and presents lessons that we may glean from today.
"Few believers understand the power of song. Worship is not just a 'warm-up' to the sermon. Singing opens the way for an increase of the Holy Spirit’s overflow in us, as well as an unfolding of discernment regarding His will in our lives. Song is a powerful instrument because it is so basic to worship. When it is worked out in the experience of our daily life, it becomes a manifestly powerful means of sustenance, triumph, creativity, deliverance and ongoing growth and development in the way of the Lord." ~Jack Hayford
We are meant to move mountains - to see the impossible occur through the exercise of faith in the omnipotent promises of our sovereign Lord. If we are not seeing mountains move, we are living beneath our means. We are living as paupers when we have millions in our heavenly bank account. Jon Bloom https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/you-are-meant-to-move-mountains
This is the first song recorded in the Bible, and not only is this the first song in the Bible, it is also by some hundreds of years the first recorded song in human history; it's a song of salvation. Moses leads and all Israel echoes. The deliverance of the Israelites and the defeat of the Egyptians is the occasion for the song.
Every few years, churches jump into the latest evangelistic fad. Leaders administrate the new program, and members go on a raid. But picture a church where evangelism is simply a part of the culture. Leaders share their faith consistently and openly. Members follow, encouraging one another to make evangelism an ongoing way life. Evangelism is more than a program. J Mack Stiles, How the whole church speaks Jesus. Evangelism is simply telling the good news of Jesus come to save sinners.
Jesus Christ is without doubt the most influential name ever spoken throughout human history. Even the skeptic H.G. Wells acknowledged that to list the most significant people in the history of the world, Jesus Christ must top such a list. There is undoubtedly something incredible about a character whose name is commonly spoken on a daily basis in nearly every culture, all around the world, 2000 years after He lived.
The first Christmas gifts were not by chance, and depict he reality of God and the gospel message by their very essence and selection. God is seeking to save the lost, and spares no attention to detail in His Holy Word, even through multiple fulfillments and symbols. Have you trusted in the Good God. He is our object of worship and worthy of all gifts this Christmas. Thanks and some inspirational credit to Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfPomQcheLs
This is now the second time He returned to Nazareth, and in the meantime, He had been doing what Isaiah had prophesied, He had been preaching the gospel to the poor, and healing the broken hearted. He had been preaching deliverance to the captives and had healed the blind and all manner of sicknesses. He had even raised the daughter of Jarius from the dead.
God's power is revealed and experienced in His Word. The actual words of the Bible are anointed by the Holy Spirit Himself – and they have the full ability to completely change and transform you. Isaiah tells us that just as precipitation is sure to cause plants to grow, God’s Word accomplishes its purposes (Isaiah 55:10–11).
Ahitophel is an example of how bitterness can destroy a person. Watch this week as Antoinette delivers a powerful message from God's Word for today!
Repent: The nearness of God’s reign, confronting the people with an inescapable decision, explains the urgency of John’s message of repentance. Repentance is a decision that results in a change of mind, which in turn leads to a change of purpose and action.
By bringing their children for dedication, parents signify their faith in God. They, also, indicate their desire that their children come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, and to serve the Lord all of their lives. The act of dedication will not make this child a Christian, but is only a starting point from which to teach him of Christ. Jesus demonstrated His acceptance and love for the little children (Mark 10:14).
“The Sabbath is for the purpose of altering our usual pattern in order that something regenerative, renewing, and re-creative would take place in us physically, mentally, and spiritually. That we would be restored to the wholeness God intends for us-in relationship with Him, in our behavior, in our bodies and minds, and in everything we do. That incorporates the need to be in His presence, it incorporates what we think of as worship expressions, and it incorporates time in His Word. It could incorporate “church,” but we don’t need to be in church for 24 hours in order to fulfill the Sabbath.” -Jack Hayford This rest is not salvation, but victory in the Christian life. Let’s look at God’s true intent for the Sabbath.
There is not a more powerful witness to the world and our culture than unity within the local body of believers. Unity is defined as being in harmony or in one spirit. Unity can be a challenge since we all have different opinions on various issues within the church and Bethel is no exception. However, if we keep our focus on the eternal and not the temporal, we are more likely to dwell in the unity that the Bible so often commands.
When we are doing the work of God we are not doing this to advance ourselves. It's not about us. When you can worship God for who He is, you will experience the greatest blessing, in spite of any tangible blessings you may or may not experience!
From most forms of fatigue we cannot escape. Physical fatigue is a daily reality. Mental fatigue consistently visits those who know real life requires reflection. Emotional fatigue invades our inner world when life becomes too heavy. But there is a weariness we must avoid! Soul fatigue is the most dangerous form of exhaustion. It tempts us to quit on who we need the most, God. It entices us to quit on what we need the most, God’s will, God’s plan, God’s best.
Jesus would die on the cross to redeem men from the curse of sin, enabling them to be saved eternally, and to restore the fellowship with God, broken such a long while before by the disaster in Eden. The victory came through death itself. The cross cast Satan out, dethroned him; he is now a usurper and shall finally be cast into the lake of fire.
The crowd brought a speechless boy to Jesus. Jesus asked the father, "How long has this been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. The spirit has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us." Jesus said to him, "If you are able! All things can be done for the one who believes." Immediately the father of the child cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!"
Jesus imparted all power and authority, first to his disciples as He commissioned them in Luke 10:18-19 and Matthew 28:18 and then to the church in Acts 2 when the Promise of the Holy Spirit was released. We have all the power and authority of God through the Holy Spirit. Reasons we fail to utilize both the authority and power that is available.
Authority for ministry. Whom Christ commissions He sufficiently endows. In Luke 9:1-2 Jesus gives the disciples the authority to use the power He transfers to them. You can have Kingdom authority available to you, but never use it.
Immediately after taming the wild sea, Christ tames a wild man. This is not just a tall tale. Legion is the picture of Satan's finished product, the destruction of the image of God in man. Satan desires to keep us in bondage; Jesus came to set us free.
Jesus did not leave behind a powerless church when He ascended back to heaven. To the contrary, He imparted divine authority to those who follow Him, along with Holy Spirit power to accomplish great things for Him on this earth. Every Christian, every disciple of Christ, has authority in this world. However, many believers either do not realize that they have this authority, or they simply do not operate in it.
The adventure, excitement, and challenges we encounter as we explore the wildlife of VBS. We visit the Israelites as slaves for the Egyptians. We look with amazement as God sends plagues on Egypt. Then we journey with the Israelites as they enter the wilderness. As we look into the New Testament, we behold as Jesus dies and comes back to life. Then with lesson 5, we watch the Israelites build a memorial to remember God’s goodness. Throughout the week we see the goodness of God, no matter the circumstances.
The peace that passes understanding is a strong, resolute faith and confidence, that no matter what circumstances you encounter, God is faithful, God is good, God will keep you, God will provide for you, and God will bless you. It's a faith that looks pat circumstances to the God who works all things for your good and his glory. As we look into God's Word, we discover God's Peace in a chaotic world.
Humanity can never be satisfied with what it has, because of this man's cup is always running dry or on empty. Is our cup dry or overflowing? Maybe our view of what God can do has been narrowed by poor theology or unbelief. Possibly we have become dry because we have removed our cup from the "fountain of life" (Psalm 36:9). For the Christian who trusts in the Lord rather than the world to supply his needs, he has a cup that overflows with blessings, joys and miracles. We do not just have enough, we have more than enough. An overflowing cup means an overflowing life.
I’m profoundly amazed with the unlimited resources of the God of the Bible. 1. He makes an ocean, makes it so deep no man can fathom it. 2. He makes a mountain, makes it so large no one can measure or weigh it. 3. He makes a flower, scatters multiplied millions, no one to admire but Him. 4. He “makes” grace; makes it without sides or bottom and leaves the top off. 5. He pours salvation forth like a river. Unknown Author
Dan Saldana presents us with a challenge to ward off complacency in our lives and cultivate the hunger and thirst for God.
The prodigal is the stereotypical rebellious adolescent who doesn't know how much he doesn't know. He reaps what he sows and learns a valuable lesson in the process. His is the classic story of the great turnaround. If only all prodigal children could get so smart so quickly! This parable has been called the greatest short story ever told. Some have described it as the parables of all parables. Others have called it the gospel within the gospel.
Do you ever feel like portions of your life seem unimportant or meaningless? Sometimes the menial tasks, circumstances, and details in the day-to-day may not seem like they’re preparing us for anything, but they are actually preparing us for a divine set-up. This morning we are going to look at how two Egyptian Hebrews in scripture caution us against taking our circumstances for granted with regards to what God has prepared for you.
How did the early church turn the world upside down? Jimmy Chapman A supernatural power was loose among them that healed the sick, drove out demons, twice blinded its opponents and made hypocrites fall dead on the spot. Within one generation, only by word of mouth, everyone within the known limits of civilization was reached with the Gospel! Incredible!
Joseph of Arimathea is one of the few who is mentioned in all four Gospels. His deed of giving his own tomb for Jesus burial was foretold by Isaiah in the suffering servant passage. (Is.53:9) “He made his grave with the rich.” An overlooked irony is that a disciple of Jesus was found among the Sanhedrin. Not only was Joseph of Arimathea a member of the exclusive seventy, Joseph was a prominent member of the Council. After Jesus death Joseph asked Pilate for the body. Today, I want to look at Joseph’s Character; Joseph’s Concealment and Joseph’s Courage.
The bible has several examples of the depth of a Mother's love and commitment to her children. Whether it is Jochebed, the mother of Moses, Hannah, the mother of Samuel, or the unnamed mother that would rather give up her child than have him killed, a mother's love for her children is a unique love that God gives for her children. Today we will look at the life of another special mother in the Bible. Mary, the mother of Jesus. Although wrongly considered divine by some, Mary was uniquely chosen by God to bring forth the greatest gift to mankind. Jesus the savior of the world.
Max Lucado asks a question. Have you and your congregation been changed by grace? Shaped by grace? Strengthened by grace? Emboldened by grace? Softened by grace? Snatched by the nape of your neck and shaken to your senses by grace? Grace is the voice that calls us to change and then gives us the power to pull it off.
It is my desire that we would understand the benefits of worship. Often, when we come to worship, we are not challenged or changed, and we don’t have an encounter with God.
Each spring millions of people around the world acknowledge, in some fashion or another, that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. Today, here at Bethel, we celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
HOSANNA is a word that we hear frequently in worship services, for it is found in many great old hymns and modern spiritual songs. Indeed, it is a word we should hear often, and yet do we all understand what we are singing?
The topic of money and stewardship is always an awkward topic in the church. However, you can't study the scriptures and not know that the bible gives clear direction and commands in both areas. However, this is the most frequent area that church Pastors and leaders are often criticized. How many times have we all heard, "all that church wants is my money!". What the church really wants is for us all to submit every area of our lives to the Lordship of Christ and that includes what is often the most important to us, our money!
The Philippian Christians had learned the secret of joyful, liberal financial giving. The church in Philippi had taken up an offering to give to Paul, in prison because of his faith. Paul wrote back to the church and expressed his joy (see verse 10). Joy, or its derivative, occurs almost 20 times in this letter. Have you discovered the joy of giving? In what ways can giving make you a joyful person? Gary Hardin
“Our consumer-oriented society pressures us to place too much value on material things, to the point that our joy is based on how much we have. This approach to life results in chronic dissatisfaction. We never seem to have enough.” Unknown
Words of wisdom: “Giving is a matter of the heart and not the pocketbook.” “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.” “God will give to us what will flow through us.” “Our life is to be like a river, not a reservoir.” “For where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” Four simple suggestions when it comes to giving.
“All over the world the Spirit is moving.” We tend to look at everything from an American perspective when around the world the Holy Spirit is moving as never before. Churches are being built in unprecedented numbers. People are being saved at astronomical rates. They are receiving the Holy Ghost baptism by the thousands daily. In China in any given 24-hour period 30,000 people are coming to Christ. In Sub-Saharan Africa 20,000 and in Central and South America 10,000. Why is that? Because God’s people are penetrating the world with His word that is being confirmed by signs and wonders on a daily basis.
“All over the world the Spirit is moving.” We tend to look at everything from an American perspective when around the world the Holy Spirit is moving as never before. Churches are being built in unprecedented numbers. People are being saved at astronomical rates. They are receiving the Holy Ghost baptism by the thousands daily. In China in any given 24-hour period 30,000 people are coming to Christ. In Sub-Saharan Africa 20,000 and in Central and South America 10,000. Why is that? Because God’s people are penetrating the world with His word that is being confirmed by signs and wonders on a daily basis.
Dr Mark Rutland honors Pastor Don after fifty years of pastoring Bethel Christian Center by preaching on the need to reflect on and perhaps reorient our definition of grace after considering Zechariah 4:7.
Many guests of Bethel visit on a Saturday night to honor Pastor Don for 50 years of service and leadership.
Many voices speak to God's Faithfulness
Tammy Smith, Missions Committee- 0:00 iTunes time stamp -1:15:41 remaining
Moses Choudary, Missionary to India- 2:07 iTunes time stamp -1:13:35 remaining
Johnny Blake, Charter Member- 6:20 iTunes time stamp -1:09:22 remaining
Antoinette Master of Ceremonies and Testimony- 13:43 iTunes time stamp-1:01:59 remaining
Bethel Kids Angela and Jeremy Fisher, Chip and Shelley Lappert and Ann Fisher- 14:05 iTunes time stamp-1:01:37 remaining
Bethel Tots Angela Fisher, Kristen Ferrer and Ashley Smith- 16:00 iTunes time stamp-59:43 remaining
Bethel Youth Michael Christy and Jennifer- 17:00 iTunes time stamp-58:47 remaining
Jennifer Clark, what is was like to grow up at Bethel 21:21 iTunes time stamp-54:14 remaining
Angela Cross, what attracted you to Bethel 30:12 iTunes time stamp-45:45 remaining
Felisha Westbrook, on family legacy and "the torch" 32:52 iTunes time stamp-43:08 remaining
Dr. Renee Vaughan, Testimony of Jubilee 50:10 iTunes time stamp-25:50 remaining
Pastor Don, Closing 1:06:02 iTunes time stamp-10:10 remaining
We cannot look at what is going on in our country and not realize that the battle lines have been clearly drawn. The signing of the abortion bill in New York, the comments from the Virginia Governor on infanticide, the drug epidemic in our nation, the chaos in many of our public schools, and the prevailing humanist thought on the college campuses, serve to remind us as follower of Christ that we need the full armor of God. Gone are the days when the society and the word of God and his precepts were mostly in harmony, they are now in direct conflict and the casual Christian will soon have to decide if they will take up the full armor or be overtaken by the enemy and ultimately the culture. Paul writing to the church at Ephesus reminded the believers there that they must put on the full armor of God to fight their spiritual battles and we must do the same.
Being led by the Holy Spirit is at the heart of the Christian life. This is clear in the Bible and in the history of the church. If we let the Spirit lead us, our lives will blossom and flourish. But if we neglect or refuse His leading, our lives will languish. Strangely, many believers today seem to misunderstand the Spirit’s leading and how it relates to personal transformation. A clearer grasp of what the Bible teaches about this vital truth will help us all as we seek to grow in grace. Thomas A. Tarrants III, D.Min.
To understand Samson’s time, we must understand the time of Judges in Israel. God had chosen Israel, brought them out of slavery in Egypt, given them His law to live by and placed them in the Promised Land. They were expected to live like His people, to be Holy because He is Holy. They went into the land under the leadership of Joshua, but after Joshua dies, things begin to head into a downward spiral fast. As we read Judges 2:18-19, and 21:25, we get a glimpse of what Judges is all about. In the cycle of sin, the people would cry out to God and He would raise up a “Judge” or deliverer. Samson, one of the 15 judges or leaders, judged Israel for 20 years. The book of Hebrews lists Samson as a hero of the faith.
Brother Michael McAfee and his wife Jolene visit from Nashville and bless Bethel with a message of becoming transformed into the witnesses we are called to be! Listen and embrace powerful spiritual truths that will transform your life!
There's a lot happening at Bethel Christian Center and around the world. Larry breaks the bread of life this week after many interesting updates and Matt informs everyone about Human Coalition which his brother heads and God is using to save lives!
Jeremiah gives a warning to Old Testament believers. Our heart must remain soft and responsive towards God. Three parables illustrate timeless Biblical truths.
Biblical revelation is the divine act of God revealing Himself to man. Revelation comes from the Latin word meaning to unveil. When a thing is revealed the veil, which is hid is removed. God has revealed Himself through the creation of the world and universe (Psalm 19:1). The Bible provides us with very specific information about God Himself (Luke 24:27).
Revelation is the divine act of God revealing Himself to man. God has revealed Himself through general revelation and specific revelation. Sometimes general and specific revelation are also referred to as natural and supernatural revelation. General revelation refers to the act of God revealing Himself to us in a general way. He has revealed Himself through the creation of the world and universe (Psalm 19:1). The Bible provides us with very specific information about God himself (Luke 24:27).
God has often taken the weakest link and made it the strongest. King David was the least of his brothers. Yet he stood toe-to-toe with Goliath in the name of the Lord and conquered. Gideon was the least of his family and his family was the least of all the tribes. Yet Gideon fighting in the power of the Lord was victorious over the Midianites. Samuel, Moses, Amos, etc. all were insignificant nobodies and God used them and they accomplished great things. Christmas is about the fulfillment of God's promises to those who are insignificant.
The concept of confidence, particularly self-confidence is something that is heralded by our society. Self-confidence is often tied to our self-worth but is too often grounded in things that are temporal and passing away such as looks, abilities, and money. When who we are, what we are here for and where we are going are grounded in Christ, then we have a confidence in ourselves that produces joy in all circumstances.
Jesus sermon text comes primarily from Isaiah 61:1-2. Jesus taught from this passage and explains to the people in Nazareth what he came to do. The six statements in this passage very aptly summarize Christ's earthly ministry and what He came to do. In the Hebrew, which Jesus was reading from, the word Messiah means "the anointed one." And so, when Jesus reads the anointing in the first part of verse 18, that is a clear reference to the Messiah. The rest of verse 18 and on into 19 tell us six things that the Messiah would focus on.
As we approach another election, we will often wonder what is the believer’s responsibility to the government and to the society to which we live. Some think we need not get involved in such things as that since the Lord has that all worked out anyway and others can get too involved in the issues of this world and uninvolved in the kingdom of God.
As we approach another election, we will often wonder what is the believer’s responsibility to the government and to the society to which we live. Some think we need not get involved in such things as that since the Lord has that all worked out anyway and others can get too involved in the issues of this world and uninvolved in the kingdom of God.
The gospels record some fascinating stories of Jesus' interaction with people. Each encounter reveals something about the nature of Christ, enabling the reader to more deeply understand His mission as well as His revelation of God. Jesus seemed to relish His conversations with all of these, from a despised tax collector (Zaccheus) to a respected Pharisee (Nicodemus) to the thief on the cross. We learn how Jesus explains who he is and what his mission is. Through their encounters with Jesus, people's lives were changed forever. No one encounters him and leaves that encounter in the same condition that they began it. "Encounters with Jesus" examines the lives of gospel characters who are transformed after being in Jesus' presence. We will see what happens when a Samaritan woman has an encounter with Jesus. (Isaiah 6)
In an age of instant oatmeal and microwave popcorn, we’re not too big on perseverance. We want everything to be delivered to our door step on our time line at our convenience. In such a society, how do we develop the art of perseverance? Webster’s Dictionary defines perseverance in the following words: “To persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking in spite of counter-influences, opposition, or discouragement.” May we look at the lessons learned from a symbolic act taken from 2 Kings chapter 13.
Rebellion against authority is common in our culture. Rebellion is the defiance or disobedience against authority. The spirit of rebellion is born out of envy and pride. Rebellion always begins in the heart. Rebellion against God’s authority was humanity’s first sin (Genesis 3) and continues to be our downfall. Our sinful natures do not want to bow to the authority of another, even God. We want to be our own bosses, and that rebellion in the human heart is the root of all sin (Romans 3:23). Examples of rebellion in the bible: King Saul, Korah, Absalom. Israel’s history is a cycle of rebellion and restoration.
God’s end time program for Babylon has its roots in the historical account of the Tower of Babel. Genesis chapters 10-11 records humanity’s first worldwide rebellion against God. Here, we learn of mankind’s rebellion against God’s command to scatter throughout the face of the earth following the flood (Gen 9:1, 7). Under the leadership of Nimrod (Gen 10:8–12), mankind instead gathered in the land of Shinar (Gen 11:2) for the purpose of building a city and tower to reach into heaven (Gen 11:4). God’s response to this collective rebellion was swift and decisive. According to Gen 11:5-9, God frustrated this worldwide apostasy by confounding human language thus inhibiting the builders from communicating with one another. God’s plan will be accomplished, if not with man’s obedience, then in spite of man’s disobedience.
“If you were to boil the Christian life down into one word what would that word be? At the risk of being too simplistic, I submit that the word would be “Relationships”. When Jesus was asked the most important commandment, He talked about one’s relationship with God the Father. He pointedly indicated that one’s relationship with his fellowman is a close second. It is a safe assumption then that relationships are at the core of Christian living.” Dr. Arnold Lastinger
A proper understanding of the doctrine of the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer will do much to unlock the possibilities for spiritual blessing and usefulness. The Holy Spirit plays many different roles in the lives of both believers and unbelievers. Nicknamed the hound of heaven, He convicts unbelievers of their need for a Savior. He also has a unique relationship with those who have accepted Christ.
"A fundamental shift is taking place within our culture: we are coming to view North America as a "mission field," a term we used to reserve for other continents. This shift is requiring church to make substantial adjustments in both their self-understanding and their ministries. Churches can no longer enjoy the luxury of spending most of their time on nurture, dealing with evangelism only as a specialized "add-on" for those who have the interest. It's becoming increasingly evident that if churches are to be effective in reaching people, they now need to seek out the world. They must place as much emphasis on mission outreach as they used to place on nurture." -Craig Van Gelder
“They are not of the world.” The question to ask is, “What is the world?” There are at least three meanings attached to the word world. First, the Bible says that there is the created world. “God … made the world and everything in it” (Acts 17:24). Second, there are the inhabitants of the world, whom God loves and for whom Christ died (John 3:16). Third, there is the cosmos, the world system, which is headed by Satan and based upon self, greed and pride. This is the world that God warns about, and it is this world system and philosophy that Christians are to shun and remain free from. Let’s look at this relationship from Jesus’ prayer for His disciples.
“In these chapters (chapters 8-12), a period of about 12 years went by as the church was enlarged. The outreach of the church stretched into Judea and even up into the region of the once hated Samaritans. God was at work. Walls of prejudice were crumbling. The Holy Spirit empowered believers as the gospel of Jesus spread all over the land.” The Living Insights. After the martyrdom of Stephen, Philip preached in Samaria with great success. He then leads the Ethiopian eunuch to Christ.
Antoinette preaches the on how the Word of God is alive and for you today! It is THE source of Truth.
The world says love is about how someone makes them feel or how they feel about someone else, but God says love is about how you behave and treat others. The church needs to know what real love is and for three reasons: (1) in order to build unity among the saints (2) keep friendships, marriages and families together (3) show an accurate example of Christ in the world. From “Let’s Please God.” The bible offers guidance to understand what true love really is.
Have you ever done damage with your words, or have been hurt by someone else? Larry discusses the most powerful and unwieldy yet unassuming member of the human body. -It would be better to leave people wondering why you didn't speak than why you did. -First law of public speaking, nice guys finish fast. -When all is said and done, there is a lot more said than done. -Better to be silent and thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
God designed men and women to be different in many ways. Men and women approach problems and difficulties differently. Both think differently, they process emotions differently, they make decisions differently and they learn differently. And yet men and women complement one another so beautifully that a healthy relationship makes both more complete. This is more than just a psychological truth it is a very deep spiritual truth. This is the reason that is makes such a spiritual impact. Peter expressed the importance of harmony in the marriage relationship when it comes to our prayer life (1 Peter 3:7).
Do you hear the voice of God? Do you listen? Do you value His voice? God wants to lead us and that we would trust Him.
Antoinette gives examples of how God will speak to us in a variety of ways, and how to determine if it's really Him.
“There seems to be a lot of confusion about marriage these days. For many people the very idea for marriage has become a joke. The traditional model of marriage is being challenged now more than ever. But instead of challenging traditional marriage, let us first look at the basis of that tradition. To do that, we must go back to the beginning.” R. C. Sproul I want us to look from a biblical perspective at the entire scope of this institution of marriage from its origin.
Paul was on a ship bound for Rome. There was a fierce storm and they were shipwrecked on a strange island, after the ship had been broken into small pieces. All 276 men "escaped to land." The land was a small island called Malta, 60 miles south of Sicily. The islanders on Malta were of Phoenician ancestry, which "showed no little kindness." God had promised Paul safe passage to (Acts 27:23-25), and he would let nothing stop his servant.
Communion is received every other month on Sunday Morning and weekly after the Friday Night hour of prayer. Christy Britt-Service open Antoinette Joyner-Administering Communion Larry Smith-Receiving offering Jonathan Fisher-Missions Update Pastor Don-Focus and update on US Embassy
John’s writings (five New Testament documents) were undertaken toward the end of the first century. By the time John wrote this letter, Christianity had been around for more than a generation. It had faced and survived several persecutions. The main problem confronting the church at this time was declining commitment: Many believers were conforming to the world’s standards, failing to stand up for Christ and compromising their faith. False teachers were plentiful, and they were accelerating the church’s downward slide away from the Christian faith. John wrote this letter to put believers back on track, to show the difference between light and darkness (truth and error), and to encourage the church to grow in genuine love for God and for one another.
Larry speaks to the divisive social issues dividing our culture, comparing it to the dysfunctional culture present in the days of the prophet Amos.
God is not impressed with our religion because it leads to oppression.
The third chapter of Genesis is one of the most important chapters in the Bible. It tells how sin entered the human family. It offers an explanation for tragedy, suffering, war and general evil in the world. Take Genesis 3 out of the Bible and you have no explanation for the presence of sin. God created us to have unbroken communion with Him (Genesis 3:8); but we have all departed from that design. The Bible calls this sin. Sin came to man from without and not from man’s original nature. God told Adam and Eve that when they ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil they would die (Gen. 2:16-17). The moment they sinned they began to die physically (Rom. 5:12).
The two most important things in life are: love God and love people (Matthew 22:37-39). Jesus summarized all the commandments in those two commands. We are created to love God and people. Relationships are a big emphasis in the Bible. Relationships are a crucial part of life so it is essential that we understand them from God’s perspective. When God created us in His image, he created us with a need and a desire to have healthy relationships. In this new series, we will look at our relationship with God, with family, the church, and with the world.
Encouragement keeps the ministry alive. Discouragement and sin steals joy and dims perspective, but community builds the joy back up. Encouragement is not just compliments, but sharing wisdom and perspective from life experiences founded on biblical truths to build one another up.
- Ask God to make you an encourager.
- Study Barnabas in Acts 4
- Make it a daily discipline.
- Ask God to show you who to encourage.
- Regularly encourage your Pastor or anyone, that God uses to speak to you.
Michael delivers a message to the church on how to be an Acts Church and value relationships even in the social age.
Scripture presents Abigail as a beautiful, intelligent woman whose lot in life is one of being married to a rich fool named Nabal. Nabal was cruel and mean. Abigail reveals how wisdom and determined action need to partner in order to save good people from disaster. Being wise in itself may not be sufficient in some situations. Without taking immediate action, it is possible to simply stand by and watch destruction that could be avoided. The action she took was on behalf of her husband and David. David had protected the Hebrew farmers from the Amalekites. Because of his kindness David made a request to Nabal (1 Samuel 25:4-11. Nabal insulted David and his men, but through Abigail, God constrained David from killing Nabal. Abigail showed wisdom in her:
James 3:13-18 is a story of wisdom presented as two completely different sides of the same coin, one that we still see played out in the life of a woman by the name of Abigail, who became the wife of David. There is the heavenly wisdom and the earthly wisdom.
Dan preaches on the unnecessary divide between the physical and the spiritual. May we view our whole being "as unto the Lord." As a "spiritual trainer" he urges continued urgency to seek the Kingdom first.
Sunday Morning concluding the kingdom authority conference, Dr Lee preaches on the power of redemption for all people. God has called us to a Creation mandate that He relies on His people to carry out.
In the opening night of the Kingdom of Authority conference, Dr Lee introduces the indigenous ministry he is a part of and he explains how Christ through us still heals today!!
Larry teaches God's word just before Kingdom Authority Conference on the top five reasons the American church struggles with this concept. 1 Sin 2 Ignorance 3 Unbelief 4 Fear 5 Prayerlessness
Our churches today are largely in a "lukewarm" condition. There is very little of warm hearted spirituality. There is much going on in them, but it is largely mechanical and of a social character. Committees, societies, and clubs are multiplied, but there is an absence of "spiritual heat." Revival meetings are held, but instead of waiting on the Lord for power, evangelists and paid singers are hired and soul winning is made a business.
Dan discusses an ever-increasing problem in society. How do we transition issues that cause us concern to prayer points that draw us closer to God?
Like most people today, chances are you do not know any shepherds. For the first Christians, who were familiar with shepherds, the Good Shepherd was a favorite image to associate with Christ. In the Old Testament God was called a shepherd, and God's people the flock. God says, “I myself will pasture my sheep; I myself will give them rest. . . . The lost I will seek out, the strayed I will bring back, the injured I will bind up, the sick I will heal” (Ezekiel 34:15-16). Here are five qualities that describe a good shepherd, and is a perfect description of Jesus….
Abraham is given a difficult order, but he responds with a sacrifice of obedience, and a heart of humble worship.
The reason we come to church time and time again is that People need the Lord. Brother Dan Saldana demonstrates the great need in Missions and has leaders pray for several.
Praise gets our attention off ourselves and back on God. Praise is a lifestyle, not an isolated activity. Praise brings us to a place of humility. Praise leaves no room for complaining and negativity. Praise makes rooms for God's blessings over our lives. Our spirits are refreshed and renewed in His presence. Praise paves the way for God's power to be displayed, with miracles happening and people being saved.
A door is just one of the many metaphors Jesus used to describe Himself. In this metaphor He is the door through which the sheep enter the safety of God’s fold and go out to the rich pasture of His blessing. It is through Him that lost sinners can approach the Father. Most of the sheepfolds to be found in Middle East countries have no door; they have a doorway-the shepherd becomes the door, and entrance is only possible when he permits it.
The light, of course, is a magnificent metaphor. Light is the active power that dispels darkness. And Jesus Christ is the light of truth that dispels the darkness of falsehood. Jesus Christ is the light of wisdom that dispels the darkness of ignorance. Jesus Christ is the light of holiness that dispels the darkness of impurity. Jesus Christ is the light of joy that dispels the darkness of sorrow. John MacArthur Notice five things about the glorious light of Jesus.
The seven miracles of John shows that Jesus is who He claimed to be, and that by believing we might have eternal life. In addition to these seven miracles, John’s gospel contains seven “I am” statements. Their focus is on what happens after we become believers. In this study, we’ll look at these seven “I am” statements to see what they’ll tell us. After the feeding of the 5000, some brought up the manna their forefathers had eaten in the wilderness (Exodus 16:13-18), and that established the context for this statement (John 6:35). This remarkable miracle served as a life sized illustration for a sermon that Jesus was about to preach
These two small words say more about this most awesome God than a whole novel ever could. They assure us that not one miraculous trait defining our God could ever be left out. "I AM," says it all. The magnitude of that is amazing - HE JUST IS! If the scriptures would have actually added the enormous sum of greatness that would be necessary to define those two impactful words, the Bible would have tripled in size. The possibilities are infinite. You simply cannot list everything that God is! These two words are profoundly meant to be followed by whatever we need them to say.
The miracles of Jesus are stories arranged to tell a bigger story about the life of Jesus. In other words, there is a message behind the miracle; the steps of understanding this message is: (1) Observation, study the events of the miracle; the context, and the culture (2) Interpretation, determine what truths it teaches, what does it mean theologically and (3) Application, determine how the truths apply to us. Bible. This miracle was prophesied of: “In that day shall the eyes of the blind see out of obscurity” (Isaiah 29:18).
Further evidence of the blindness and opposition of the religious leaders is their demand for a display of supernatural power that will authenticate Jesus as the Messiah. Christ had performed many miracles, yet they asked for a sign (John 6:30-35). Christ promises only one sign. The text reveals some disturbing news about the ones who seek for a sign from Christ rather than accepting Christ as He is.
May we let Peter’s walk stand as an invitation for us who, like him, wants to step out in faith, who wants to experience something more of the power and presence of God. Let water-walking be a picture of doing with God’s help what we could never do on our own. There is a consistent pattern in Scripture of what happens in life that God wants to use and improve: John Ortberg, “If You Want To Walk On Water, You’ve Got To Get Out Of The Boat.”
Larry reports on ministering to Hurricane Harvey victims and how works relate to our faith. 23:18-context-24:40- 2 things to look for in the transformation. -25:55
After Jesus fed the 5000, the mob wanted to take Him by force and make him king. Urgently, Jesus forced the disciples to leave, and He, dispersed the militant mob. He went up to a mountain to pray. About 3 miles out on the Sea of Galilee, the disciples struggled because of a terrible storm. Then, and now, Christ discloses Himself to us in our difficulty. We have here a beautiful picture of the church today. Christ is on the mountain praying while the disciples are battling the storm. Jesus is in heaven interceding for us while we fight the storms of sin on earth.
Apart from the Resurrection, the feeding of the 5,000 is the only miracle recorded in all four gospels, which shows its significance. C. H. Spurgeon says that it’s in all four gospels so that we won’t forget how much the Lord can do with little things that are yielded to Him. The feeding of the 5,000 precedes Jesus’ discourse on being the living Bread that comes down out of heaven to give His life for the world (6:32-58). So it’s also a miracle that points to salvation. Notice four main lessons:
You see this witness thing was a big deal in Jesus’ culture. It was one of the central concepts of Jewish law and society. So when Jesus makes this statement, about himself, the Pharisees start to freak. Jesus is going against the grain of one of the core ideas in their belief system. Or so it would seem. But if we look a little closer, at John chapter 5 in particular, we see five sources of testimony or witness about Jesus. There are five sources that identify Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah, the light of the world, and the giver of light of life. (I encourage you to read the passage for yourself: John 5:31-47). The Old Testament required two or three witnesses for a testimony to be established. But Jesus offers five in John chapter five.
God sees all, even when you think no one is watching! God's measuring scales are most important!
This is the third of the seven signs in John. The first three signs show how a person is saved: salvation through the Word (water to wine), by faith (healing of the nobleman’s son), and by grace (healing the impotent man). The last four signs show the results of salvation: satisfaction (feeding the 5,000), peace (stilling the storm), light (healing the blind man), and life (raising Lazarus). Warren Wiersbe This miracle begins with Jesus traveling to Jerusalem for a “feast of the Jews.” There He passed by the Bethesda pool, where a number of invalids had placed themselves.
Final session of the 2017 Southeast Regional Conference of the Fellowship Network - Keynote Speaker from London Harvest Church Pastor Jo Naughton
Early Afternoon of the 2017 Southeast Regional Conference of the Fellowship Network -Rev. Mike Manuel and Dr. Zachary Lewis dialogue on the truth claims of both Creation and Evolution.
Second morning session of the 2017 Southeast Regional Conference of the Fellowship Network -with Pastor Mark Evans from Believer's Church in Douglasville, GA
First Morning session of the 2017 Southeast Regional Conference of the Fellowship Network - with Pastor Randy Estelle from Exalt Church in Bradenton, Florida
Opening night of the 2017 Southeast Regional Conference of the Fellowship Network - Keynote Speaker from London Harvest Church Pastor Jo Naughton
In the gospel of John, the miracles are called “signs.” As you drive on the highways, you will see all kinds of signs. One particular sign is painted red. The sign simply says, “Stop.” It is a stop sign. You never think that this is a piece of metal with red and white paint on it. You simply read the message. “Stop.” So it is with the signs in the Gospel of John. You ask, “What is the message of this sign of water into wine?
The Sunday Morning following VBS "Galactic Starveyors" Michael Britt and Todd Going share God's Word
I can’t imagine where my life would be without the Christian church. I don’t know where I would be. When the Christian church gets it right, it’s the most powerful force for God and for good on the planet. The problem is a lot of the time it doesn’t get it right.
All liberty is precious, but political and physical freedom, are freedoms merely of the second order. Freedom of the first order is spiritual freedom, and this is transcendent! No man in this world attains to freedom from any slavery except by entrance into some higher servitude.
Last year, the BBC asked a question that many of us are still asking: “Why Are Americans So Angry?” According to a CNN/ORC poll from a year ago, “69 percent of Americans are either ‘very angry’ or ‘somewhat angry’ about ‘the way things are going’ in the US.” In a recent article for the Atlantic Monthly, Peter Beinart writes that the absence of faith in some people’s lives has arguably impacted their disposition toward those with whom they disagree. As people of faith, we have a name for this kind of excessive anger—sin—and we also have a script for how to respond to it. Christianity Today
Anger can and will surface at the strangest times, brought forth for the strangest reasons, and exhibited in the strangest way. Anger is the most dangerous of all emotions. It’s like a boomerang—you throw it out at someone, and it comes right back at you. It is one of the hardest emotions to deal with. “Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame; anger is never without reason, but seldom with a good one.” B. Franklin Others have said about anger: “where there is anger there is always pain underneath.” He who angers you conquers you.”
Increasing deception will mark the "end time". At a certain point, these deceptions are even going to be augmented by signs and wonders—miracles of certain kinds. And, if we are not careful, even the elect—if possible—could be deceived. A major theme throughout the entire New Testament is that God’s people need to develop discernment so that they can avoid spiritual deception. The key to understanding spiritual deception is the fact that we often choose what we want to believe rather than what we should believe, even in the face of the evidence
The words in Matthew 7:24-27 conclude one of the greatest sermons ever preached. Jesus Christ brings to culmination the great Sermon on the Mount, and he does so with a poignant truth about two men. These two men raise the question, what kind of foundation are we building on? These two men can be seen in terms of a comparison, a contrast, leading us to a clear conclusion.
This weekend not only marks the unofficial beginning of summer, it is the time we set aside to remember those who gave their lives serving our nation during times of war. We also take this opportunity to thank those who are serving and have served in our military because we can never say thank you enough but we have holidays to help us honor these special people. As we honor the brave men and women who secured our political freedom, we also honor the one who secured our ultimate freedom over sin, death, and the devil. Jesus gave us everything. He sacrificed his life for the cause of ultimate freedom.
As the power of God continued to be poured out on the early church, incredible things were happening, even to the point of people being healed by Peter’s shadow as it passed by. The high priests and his sect of the Sadducees were becoming jealous of these uneducated followers of Jesus. When they had the apostles arrested, an angel of God came in the middle of the night and released the men, telling them to go back to the temple and keep preaching. Let’s look at Acts chapter 5.
We live in a time of great transition, in the world/Church. Life is never stagnant. A greater part of our success as a Christian, and as a Church is how we manage the Season of Transition. First of all, we need to understand the nature of transition. Transition is a process, not just a change. A transition is moving from one point to another point. It is essentially moving forward. We need to remember that if God brought you to it, He will see you through it.
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter. Christians around the world recognize Palm Sunday as the day Jesus made His triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem. On this day, prophecy was fulfilled; the prophet Zechariah had recorded this event some 400 years earlier (Zech 9:9). The Lord orchestrated the events of His ministry in Jerusalem in detail. As the sovereign King, He left nothing to chance but prepared each detail so as to culminate His ministry with majestic fulfillment of the OT prophecies. Matthew 21 begins the final week of the life of Jesus Christ.
Wind serves as a particularly good symbol of the Holy Spirit. Wind by its very nature is invisible and unpredictable. The original Hebrew and Greek words for “Spirit” can be translated as “wind.” The wind that appeared on Pentecost (Acts 2:2), was reminiscent of the wind that blew over the waters at the beginning of Creation (Genesis 1:2). The word Spirit means breath or wind, so that the Holy Spirit could literally be called the Wind or Breath of God.
The need to address the vital role of the Holy Spirit is as relevant today as it has been in church history. Jesus clearly told His disciples that even though he was about to leave them that in fact in the next phase of His ministry His presence would be mediated by another and that is the Holy Spirit. That means today the Holy Spirit it how we practice and experience the presence of God in our daily lives as Christ followers. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus is transforming hearts and lives around the world. The Holy Spirit is described in the Bible as a power at work in the lives of people dealing with them and revealing more fully God and His will to mankind.
"It would make a lot of sense that the enemy would tirelessly fight against something that has such a strong potential to pillage his expansion of darkness in our lives and on the earth." Larry Sparks Charisma News Michael expounds on the more difficult aspects of the Holy Spirit Baptism.
Jesus speaking publicly in the temple on the most crowded day of the most popular feast of Israel, issues the call, “Are you thirsty? Come and drink!” When Jesus stands up in the middle of the festival and makes his pronouncement, he claims that he will make available not only the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit, but also the power that provides for ultimate cleansing and satisfaction. “This He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” John interprets the words of Jesus to refer to the pouring out of the Holy Spirit that was still to come. The Holy Spirit existed from all eternity, but was not yet present in the sense indicated (Acts 2:33)
Habakkuk provides us one of the most remarkable sections in all of Scripture, as it contains an extended dialogue between Habakkuk and God. The prophet initiated this conversation based on his distress about God’s “inaction” in the world. He wanted to see God do something more, particularly in the area of justice for evildoers. The book of Habakkuk pictures a frustrated prophet, much like Jonah, though Habakkuk channeled his frustration into prayers and eventually praise to God, rather than trying to run from the Lord as Jonah did. The purpose of Habakkuk is to show that God is still in control of the word despite the apparent triumph of evil.
Have we come to the place where we don’t expect God to miraculously intervene in the history of the church? Have we come to expect that God will not save people in unusual ways (such as dreams and visions) when, in fact, many Muslims are saved this way today? Have we come to expect God only to heal through doctors and hospitals, and not miraculously? The Book of Acts is the story of the disciples receiving what Jesus received in order to do what Jesus did. When we read the Book of Acts we should ask why we don’t experience God’s presence and power as those early saints did. We should believe that He is able (and willing) to intervene in human history in a miraculous way. And we should pray that God would accomplish His will and His work, in whatever way He chooses.
Can you imagine coming to the city well by yourself in shame and returning to the village, leaving your water jar behind, proclaiming the Gospel to the people who rejected you? She had found it! She had had a drink of living water. Her life, her influence, her world was suddenly changed ... redeemed ... and made significant. Have you been blessed by the Christ? Have you received a drink from the Messiah? Then why not join this unnamed woman and invite those in your world to come meet Jesus so they can also find the Messiah!
Have we come to the place where we don’t expect God to miraculously intervene in the history of the church? Have we come to expect that God will not save people in unusual ways (such as dreams and visions) when, in fact, many Muslims are saved this way today? Have we come to expect God only to heal through doctors and hospitals, and not miraculously? The Book of Acts is the story of the disciples receiving what Jesus received in order to do what Jesus did. When we read the Book of Acts we should ask why we don’t experience God’s presence and power as those early saints did. We should believe that He is able (and willing) to intervene in human history in a miraculous way. And we should pray that God would accomplish His will and His work, in whatever way He chooses.
Storms aren’t fun, either at sea or in real life. Yet we learn lessons through storms that we never would learn if life were always calm. The Christian faith is not just to get us to heaven when we die. It teaches us how to live in the here and now, especially when life gets stormy. The short story in Luke teaches us several things.
“One ship drives east and another drives west with the selfsame winds that blow. ’Tis the set of the sails, And Not the gales, that tell us the way to go. Like the winds of the sea are the ways of fate; as we voyage along through life 'Tis the set of a soul that decides its goal, and not the calm or the strife.” ELLA WHEELER WILCOX
“One ship drives east and another drives west with the selfsame winds that blow. ’Tis the set of the sails, And Not the gales, that tell us the way to go. Like the winds of the sea are the ways of fate; as we voyage along through life, 'Tis the set of a soul that decides its goal, and not the calm or the strife.” ELLA WHEELER WILCOX.Enter Jehosophat, with some lessons to teach
Seeking the Lord, means seeking His presence. “Presence” is a common translation of the Hebrew word “face.” Literally, we are to seek his “face.” But this is the Hebraic way of having access to God. To be before his face is to be in his presence. John Piper May we experience the presence of God. Since God is present everywhere, when we talk about experiencing the presence of God we are really talking about the realization of God's presence, the perceiving of His presence, becoming conscious of His presence.
“One ship drives east and another drives west with the selfsame winds that blow. ’Tis the set of the sails, And Not the gales, that tell us the way to go. Like the winds of the sea are the ways of fate; as we voyage along through life 'Tis the set of a soul that decides its goal, and not the calm or the strife.” ELLA WHEELER WILCOX
“A kind of moral relativism has taken over. Nothing is really wrong. If I have a good reason to do it, it’s not sin.” That is the modern attitude toward the righteousness of God. I get the impression that the church in our day avoids at all costs the idea of sin and guilt and therefore tries to entertain lost sinners into heaven. However, there is no escaping the fact that when God became flesh so He could be with us He did so in order to “save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Will Pounds (c) 2006
A Tribute to the Christmas Song: “A Strange Way to Save the World.” Written by: Dave Clark, Mark Harris and Don Koch
Paul gave to Timothy a simple hymn or spiritual song which expressed a powerful truth in six statements. The hymn contains the confessedly great and wondrous revelation of Jesus Christ. The revelation begins in heaven, descends to earth, and returns to glory to heaven. The believer through its proclamation must hold up and support these truths in this generation. Joel C. Gregory
Habakkuk begins with complaint and ends with one of the most beautiful songs in the Bible. Habakkuk’s questions demonstrated the presence of faith, not the lack of it. For an atheist the question “Why?” has no meaning; for a believer the question “Why?” finds its ultimate answer in God. Let’s look at this conversation between God and the prophet.
Our lives should be lived intentionally. What relationships build you up, and who are you impacting?
Generally speaking, Americans are very bad about making solid commitments and following through on them. Why do two people decide to live together? In the 1960’s 1 out of 10 couples lived together. Today, 6 out of 10 couples live together. I believe the primary reason is that they want to experience all the benefits of marriage without any of its commitment and responsibilities. They want the benefit of a sexual relationship without having to make a permanent commitment. There are millions of people in America who “attend” church, but are not committed members of that church. They want to live with the Church, but don’t want to marry her.
Communism, Humanism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, does not have the answer to the meaning of life. In the Bible, and there only, do we find the answers to: where did we come from, why are we here and where are we going?
Understanding the names of God is no quick study-after all; there are more than eighty names for God in the Old Testament alone. Initially, God was known as Elohim. The Hebrew word Elohim carries with it the meaning "strong one or creator" and appears thirty-one times in the first chapter of Genesis.
Understanding the names of God is no quick study-after all; there are more than eighty names for God in the Old Testament alone. Initially, God was known as Elohim. The Hebrew word Elohim carries with it the meaning "strong one or creator" and appears thirty-one times in the first chapter of Genesis.
Even the strongest among us become weary. We must be willing to admit it (not dwell on it) and do something about it. Understand “the Lord is the strength of my life.” Ps. 27:1 Here in Deuteronomy the meaning is obvious: Whatever your trials or difficulties may be, God will always give you grace to support you and bring you through them. No conjuncture shall arise, in which the strength of heaven shall not make us victorious.
One of the arch enemies of the Israelites was the Midianites. We learn in Judges 6:3-6 that every year about the time the Israelite farmers were about to harvest their crops, the Midianites would attack destroying virtually all of their harvest. This went on for seven years in a row, leaving the Israelites impoverished. After seven years of suffering at the hands of the Midianites, God rose up a judge, a leader named Gideon.
Evangelism is not a program, but a way of life. God has not left evangelism to chance. It works and is guaranteed to be successful when engaged in faithfully. Success in witnessing is simply taking the initiative to share Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God. Our understanding of evangelism must be rooted in the reality of God's unquenchable desire to save, His ability to save, and His purpose to employ us in this mission. Successful evangelism is lay-centered, and is not seasonal (Acts 2:47).
In this statement, the apostle Paul is saying that everything he has tried to be, everything he is, and everything he looked forward to being pointed to Christ. From the time of his conversion until his martyrdom, every move he made was aimed at advancing the knowledge, gospel, and church of Christ. Paul’s singular aim was to bring glory to Jesus. The story of Paul is a story of redemption in Jesus Christ.
Epaphras was from Colossae. His name is mentioned only three times in the Bible (Colossians 1:7; 4:12; Philemon 23). From these verses and the historical-geography of the Lycus Valley, we can glean hints about this man with a reputation for praying for specific needs in the churches where he ministered.” Morgan-Gillman Colossae was located in the Lycus Valley. This valley was situated on a very strategic road that went from Ephesus on the Aegean Sea eastward to Syria. It is located at the eastern end of the Meander River. Within this valley there are two other major cities, Laodicea and Hierapolis, within the region of Phrygia.
“In Colossians 4, the Apostle Paul lists eight less-familiar names from the early church. Paul’s “shout-out” to these saints reminds us of the vast majority of Christians who quietly play important roles in the kingdom of God. Even though these mentions are brief, they contain life-long lessons for us today.” Trevin Wax Some of these carry out their work primarily in a local setting; others travel with Paul or serve as his delegates when he cannot travel. Still, all of his co-workers act cooperatively with him in a wide variety of mission activities.
Timothy’s name means, “One who honors God.” He was a native of Lystra, Paul and Barnabas had visited in conjunction with their First Missionary Journey. It is very possible that Timothy heard and obeyed the gospel, having been raised to respond to God’s Word by his mother and grandmother. Paul apparently wanted to help develop this young man into a faithful Christian and gospel preacher, so Timothy became Paul’s “son in the faith.” Timothy became a close, trusted associate of the apostle Paul, and of great importance to Christians in Ephesus, Philippi, Corinth and other places. One of the great friendships of the Bible and one of the meaningful examples of how the older can lead the younger and how the younger can comfort the older is found in this Paul-Timothy model.
Even though Philemon is a very short epistle, there’s a lot here. This letter from Paul tells us a lot about how Christians deal with each other. It tells us about grace, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness. It is a demonstration of the power of God to restore relationships. This book shows the wonder of the grace of the Lord Jesus to us through the simple story of a runaway slave.
Saul had been such a vicious persecutor of Christians that even after his conversion the brethren were still afraid of him. When Paul eventually returned to Jerusalem following his conversion to Christ, Barnabas had to persuade the disciples to let the apostle fellowship with them. As a result of this intercession, a wonderful friendship between Paul and Barnabas was formed. Then as the Christian Church began to extend its reach into the known world, the Holy Spirit sends Paul and Barnabas on a special mission to share the Gospel in the area of Asia Minor. They take along a young man named Mark, to assist them in their travels.
The apostle Paul was a “people person.” He ministered to people, he trained people, he prayed for people. When one of those people, whom he had poured his life into, deserted him, he must have felt devastated and alone. This seems to be reflected in verse 11 when he wrote, “Only Luke is with me.” Let us examine the life of Demas and see what lessons we can learn from his failure. We are all prone to wander away from God. The principles gleaned from the life of Demas can prevent us from doing that!
Having left Ephesus, Paul went to Troas, a port city in the northwest corner of Asia Minor, where he expected Titus to arrive from his visit to Corinth. While Paul was there he went about his missionary work with his usual vigor, and God blessed his efforts. But in spite of a promising beginning in a city of great strategic importance, Paul cut short his work in Troas because, as he puts it, “my mind could not rest because I did not find my brother Titus there.” He simply could not attend to his work, his very passion, because of the anguish he felt over his strained relationship with the Corinthian believers. So he left for Macedonia in the hope of finding Titus there.
After just retiring from the police force, Larry Smith relates his experience to the experience of the believer's benefits package.
Today is a day of celebration. We are celebrating our graduates and their achievements. They have toiled, studied, and completed coursework to arrive at this time of recognition of their efforts and achievements. We pause to celebrate their preparation and beginning a new phase of life. Graduation is not an endpoint. It is a beginning.
A warning to the listener to re-evaluate our path make sure we are still heading down the straight and narrow.
“Some Christians have been taught to repress their emotions as they worship. They’ve been told to fear feeling anything too strongly, and that maturity means holding back. But what we want to avoid is emotionalism, not emotions. Emotionalism pursues feelings as an end in themselves; it wants to feel something with no regard for how that feeling is produced or its ultimate purpose. In contrast, the emotions that worship is meant to express are a response to who God is and what he’s done.” Bob Kauflin We are not only to pursue God with our mind and will, but with our emotions also.
Everyone is zealous about something. All people have an innate desire to be passionate. I’m not talking about romantic passion, but rather a passion for life and a desire for purpose. We are passionate about work, striving to succeed. We are passionate about possessions, striving to have more. We are passionate about our sports teams. Think of this… we always have enough time, energy and money for those things about which we are passionate. The real question is: are we passionate about that which is most important? Are we passionate about God? The Bible has much to say about our 'zeal' for God.
Topics studied recently: The Pentecostal movement; The Holy Spirit Baptism, a life-changing encounter; scriptural examples of receiving the Baptism with the Holy Spirit, and conditions on receiving the Spirit fullness.
Robin Bertram encourages Bethel to assume its kingdom role in authority in the resurrection power of Jesus.
Jesus promised a vibrant pathway of life for every one of God’s beloved children — a way of: fullness (overflowing of the Spirit), fruitfulness (service to others), and fulfillment (joy through relationship). He promised “a well” of indwelling grace and joy when we come to know Him as Savior (John 4:14). He also promises rivers of grace and power when a believer receives the Holy Spirit Baptism to flow out from him to others (John 7:37-39).
In describing the Holy Spirit’s coming, Jesus specifically said, "Rivers of living water shall flow from the inner being of all those who believe me" (John 7:37-38). On Pentecost, what Joel had prophesied, Peter preached: "God has poured out His Spirit; a stream of restoring, healing power is released to mankind!"
The book of 1st Corinthians is rich in information that our churches of today need to be aware. The problems faced there are still with us today, in so many ways. Perhaps in looking at this book, God can show us ways to face similar situations, and deal with them, so that we can accomplish much for His kingdom on this earth. Two of the main problems were dis-unity (which we dealt with earlier) and the problem of open, un-repented of sin in the church.
Following a night and morning of torture and ridicule, Jesus was crucified, and for six hours He hung on the cross. There was darkness from the sixth hour (noon) to the ninth hour (3pm). At noon when Jesus was put on the cross the sun should be brightest. A very unique act took place during these three hours of darkness; when as the Son of God he was made sin for us. A transaction took place between a holy God and a perfect sinless sacrifice; and it was nothing for sinful men to pry into – So the cross was shrouded in darkness. In the darkness there was a penalty paid, a substitution endured and propitiation made.
No epistle in the New Testament gives a clearer insight into the life of the first-century church than I Corinthians. In it Paul provides straightforward instructions for such moral and theological problems as sectarianism, spiritual immaturity, church discipline, ethical differences, and the role of the sexes and the proper use of spiritual gifts. Where these same problems exist in the modern church, the remedies are the same. Spirit Filled Bible
The Christians in Corinth were struggling with their environment. Surrounded by corruption and every conceivable sin, they felt the pressure to adapt. They knew they were free in Christ, but what did this freedom mean? How should they view idols or sexuality? What should they do about marriage, women in the church and the gifts of the Spirit? Paul wrote this letter to address their problems, heal their divisions, and answer their questions.
Paul’s first admonition was “Stand fast!” Now he says, Walk in the Spirit!” Our standing in Christ determines our walk in Christ.
“In 1215, English subjects of King John forced him to accept the Magna Carta, proclaiming freedoms for citizens, limiting the king’s powers by law. The Magna Carta led to eventual constitutional law in England and later America. The Book of Galatians in the Bible has also been called the Magna Carta of Christian Liberty.” 2020 Hindsight. Paul wrote Galatians to combat those in the church who were insisting that it was necessary to follow a law or code in order to be saved. Galatians 5:1 sums up the whole of Paul’s letter to the Galatians.
Second Thessalonians was written by Paul to the church to address the “false teachers” that had come to Thessalonica and were teaching that the Day of the Lord had already come and gone. Paul wrote that two things must take place before the “Day of the Lord” took place (1) a falling away and (2) the man of sin is revealed. In light of all that would happen, Paul encouraged them to stand firm.
The final chapter of 1 Thessalonians gives a series of admonitions instructing the Christians how to live in the light of Christ’s coming. Some in the church were living carelessly; some were not respecting their church leaders and some were abusing the public services. The admonitions point out how the local church can live in harmony and purity.
The most certain thing in the entire world is the return of Jesus Christ. The bible is full of promises concerning the return of the Lord. In the New Testament the events related to Christ’s coming are mentioned 300 times. Jesus told His disciples He would come again (John 14:3). When Jesus was taken up to heaven the angel said he would come in “like manner” (Acts 1:11). The writer of Hebrews said, “He will come and will not tarry” (Hebrews 10:37). James wrote that “the coming of the Lord draweth nigh “(James 5:8). Critics have denied it. Cynics have laughed at it. Scholars have ignored it. Liberal theologians have tried to explain it away, and fanatics have perverted it. Some sarcastically ask, “Where is the promise of His coming?” (2 Peter 3:4) but, He Is Coming!
Chapter 2 of 1 Thessalonians is a defense against insinuations about Paul’s alleged ulterior motives. The apostle was subjected to a constant barrage of accusations. The Thessalonians themselves may have begun to question Paul’s sincerity. So Paul addressed his readers most affectionately. Paul puts them in mind of the manner of his preaching among them, then the manner of his conversation among them.
The way we conceive the future sculpts the present, gives contour and tone to nearly every action and thought through the day. If our sense of the future is weak we live listlessly. Most emotional and mental illness and most suicides occur among men and women who feel that they “have no future.” Eugene H.Peterson Many people in our world, even in our churches don't see a lot of hope for the future. That represents a great tragedy of the human spirit and it is part of Satan's Great Lie. Do you believe in a future with hope?
Sometimes preachers, elders and other concerned Christians spend too much time on those who do not appreciate the gospel. We are often hesitant to "give up" on someone whom we believe to be a good prospect for the gospel. However, when our Lord sent out the apostles on the limited commission He said, "And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them"
There are times when it seems there is little energy left in our spiritual sails. There are times when we feel defeated and deflated and unable to rise above our circumstances. Regardless of how low you may feel today spiritually, there is help in the Lord for you. In order for us to renew and gain new strength, to mount up with eagle's wings, to run and not get weary, to walk and not become faint, something must first happen. We must do something in order for the strength in this verse to come to pass in our lives. What is the key that unlocks the strength in this verse? The key to unlocking this verse is the word wait.
“The wise man looks ahead. The fool attempts to fool himself and won’t face facts” (Proverbs 14:8 The Living Bible). We all face pitfalls as we make plans for our future, such as cultural distractions, voices of doubt, tempting shortcuts, and discouraging delays. The Gaithers wrote, “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living, just because He lives.” As William Shakespeare said, “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves,” may we determine to make strong and right choices for the coming year.
In the early part of this century, an American ship was wrecked off the Sicily Isles near the coast of England. The sea had been calm and the weather clear, but the vessel was caught in a treacherous current that slowly lured it off its course. Before the captain and the crew realized what had happened, the ship had crashed into the rocks. In life, too, powerful currents of compromise can catch the soul and carry to shipwreck. Spiritual drifting is usually a slow and imperceptible process. We know it has occurred when we have lost the strong resistance to evil and the passionate desire for truth that we once knew.
This chapter includes one of the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus. This morning, we're looking at an invitation that Jesus extended to the weakened hearts of some of His disciples after they had spent a long night of fishing. And to these weak hearts, He said, "come and dine". The Bible teaches us that Jesus offers us a place of refreshing when we have failed or are fearful. His love is so great for us that He seeks to renew us, all we have to do is accept the invitation!
We live in a changing world filled with people who are reaching for a firm grip on something which cannot be shaken. God calls us to become people who have that grip, formed of the unshakable nature of the Savior that transcends our temporal world and introduces the constancy, stability, and strength of His Kingdom into the shifting, shaking, and sometimes shattering circumstances around us. Jack Hayford Today’s passage reminds us that we have received a kingdom that cannot be shaken. This is the kingdom of God, which Jesus inaugurated at His first coming. This is the only kingdom that will remain when He returns to consummate all things (Hebrews 9:28).
Christians today are living in limitation. The problem is not with our limitations it is with our thinking and believing. The disciples were limited in their ability to cast out a demon because of their unbelief (Matthew 17:17, 20). Your limitations do not define who you are. Our limitations lead to God’s opportunities. God is bigger than all our limitations.
Failure is never fun and defeat is seldom something we take delight in. It can be painful, embarrassing and humiliating. And our response can be life changing, altering our destiny. Failure can make us bitter or it may make us better. We can take it as instructive and corrective and learn from it.
Enoch, an often neglected Hero of the Faith, walked with God. His testimony in Genesis 5:23-24 is a powerful statement that challenges us today to please God in our Christian walk.
Jesus often ran afoul of the religious leaders over the matter of keeping traditions; plucking heads of grain on the Sabbath, healing on the Sabbath, or eating with unwashed hands. Tradition is not necessarily a bad thing, but when it has more authority than the Word of God then it is wrong. Colossians 2:8 warns us against man-made traditions, but we should heed the traditions given by God and handed down to His people (1 Cor. 11:2; 2 Thes. 2:15; 2 Tim. 2:2). Apostolic teaching (God’s Word) is to be passed on to succeeding generations without addition or alteration.
The plan was to trap Jesus. In chapter seven, the religious leaders sent officers to arrest Him, but they returned saying, “no man ever spoke like this man.” Now bringing a woman caught in adultery, Jesus is trapped between the Law of Moses and the law of the Romans. At first Jesus ignored the accusers, and then He exposed them. Let’s follow this cruel scheme.
Important to the ministry of Jesus was the appointment and training of His apostles…Men who would follow Him and continue His work after His death; men that would be with Him and later to be sent out to preach, heal, and cast out demons.
The miracles of Jesus are stories arranged to tell a bigger story about the life of Jesus. In other words, there is a message behind the miracle; the steps of understanding this message is: (1) Observation, study the events of the miracle; the context, and the culture (2) Interpretation, determine what truths it teaches, what does it mean theologically and (3) Application, determine how the truths apply to us. Bible.org
The miracles of Jesus are stories arranged to tell a bigger story about the life of Jesus. In other words, there is a message behind the miracle; the steps of understanding this message is: (1) Observation, study the events of the miracle; the context, and the culture (2) Interpretation, determine what truths it teaches, what does it mean theologically and (3) Application, determine how the truths apply to us. Bible.org
The story contained in these verses is also recorded by Matthew and Luke; each supplies additional details not given by the others - so when you take all three gospel accounts together you get the complete picture of what was said and what happened. This is a story that contains some powerfully important lessons for you and me.
Christianity is founded on miracles. The Bible speaks of the virgin birth, Christ's miracles, the resurrection of the dead, the coming of the Holy Spirit and much more. Yet many who call themselves Christians deny them for today. Hebrews 2:3-4 tells us three reasons to accept the great salvation that God offers through Jesus Christ. First, it was "announced by the Lord." Second, it was "confirmed...by those (apostles) who heard him." And third, "God also testifies to it by signs, wonders and miracles, and also the gifts of the Holy Spirit." Miracles are God's present witness of the validity of the gospel.
Palsy is a medical term which refers to various types of paralysis, often accompanied by weakness and the loss of feeling and uncontrolled body movements. This particular man was brought to Jesus by believing friends, and Christ answered their faith by not only healing the man, but forgiving him of his sins. These four men are carrying more truth than we might think.
Jesus has introduced a new counter-cultural standard of living: deep, genuine bliss that only He can offer.
The first recorded miracle Jesus performed was at a wedding. The wine had run out, and the Lord Jesus Christ, at the request of His mother, moved in to take care of the embarrassing situation. He told the servants to fill six available water pots with water; then, He turned the water into wine — but not ordinary wine, the very best. But this was not just a miracle. It was a miracle with a message.
Preaching the miracle stories of the Gospels in a rational age is not easy. Yet the Synoptic Gospels and the first nine chapters of Mark in particular, are filled with stories of Jesus as a miracle-worker. There are 18 miracles of Jesus recorded in the Book of Mark. The Gospel of Mark is well able to establish a healthy faith in Jesus Christ and his kingdom. Mark proceeded to do this through an emphasis on the miracles of Christ.
Communion should be a time of unity, reverence, self-reflection, and expectation for the coming of Christ.
All of the apostles were chosen by the Lord for a reason. All of them shared in the ministry and apostleship. Despite this equality, the gospel accounts reveal that on three different occasions, Jesus chose three of His apostles, and allowed them to see things that they were not permitted to tell the others. These three are regularly singled out to attend Him at His most sacred moments, both as helpers and as witnesses.
This is the last picture that we have of the apostle Paul in the book of Acts. The book of Acts is the one book in the New Testament Scriptures that tells us about the early church; it shows us what the early church was like; it gives us a pattern of churches in all time to come. Acts begins with Jerusalem, which, of course, was the capital city of the Jewish people, and concludes by bringing us to Rome. Rome was the capital of the non-Jewish world; so we see here the center of gravity move from Jerusalem to Rome. The purpose is to show that the Gentiles are brought into the Kingdom of God.
Mark deals with the subject of the keeping of the Sabbath, according to the Pharisaical interpretation of the law. This passage has two major divisions. Verses 23-28 give an account of the protest of the Pharisees and the response of our Lord, stemming from the “harvesting” of food on the Sabbath by Jesus’ disciples. Mark 3:1-6 deals with Jesus’ healing of the man with the withered hand on the Sabbath.
Change is in the air when God is involved. The resurrection of Jesus is synonymous with change. Old gives way to new. Death gives way to life. Deadness is transformed into something new and vital and life-giving. Easter is about the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, and about the triumph of eternal life over death. With the resurrection come new hope, new possibilities, new life, new promise, and change. Let us consider some of the changes, some of the transformations that the resurrection of Jesus has already made. Before, life was filled with despair. But now it has purpose, direction and meaning. Before, death was the end. But now it is just the beginning.
It is a rare thing that all four gospels record the same event in Jesus’ life. But what happens on this day in Jerusalem is recorded by all four of the gospel writers. For that reason alone, we should consider what happened here to be important. Six days before the Passover, on what we call Palm Sunday, Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem. His dynamic entrance into the city fulfilled prophecy (Zechariah 9:9), affirmed his messianic royalty, and set the stage for his crucifixion. There was a great crowd there that day that had come to celebrate the Feast of the Passover. But who were the faces in that crowd that day, and what were they thinking?
Chapter two of Mark begins with the story of Jesus healing the paralyzed man who was lowered through the roof. The next story is the one for today. Here he calls Levi, who happens to be a tax collector. The people of Israel hated tax collectors. Tax collectors were viewed as low-lifes who would sell their own people down the river to make a buck. They were lumped with the worst of sinners. Now here comes a powerful and influential leader in the person of Jesus and he is calling one to be a disciple and then going and eating in his home.
“Jesus did not leave behind a powerless church when He ascended back to heaven. To the contrary, He imparted divine authority to those who follow Him, along with Holy Spirit power to accomplish great things for Him on this earth.” Pastor Jim Feeney, Ph.D.
The story of John’s childhood is passed over in one sentence, Luke 1:80; “And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.”
Life in general is so fast and with each passing year it speeds up. May we at times take a visit to Mayberry where stress is almost non-existent, where people sit on their front porches after supper and talk for hours; where people watch the sunsets more than they do TV-where no one hurries anywhere and the pace of life is so relaxed and easy that everyone has the time to actually know everyone else. Let’s look at how Jesus handled the rat race of life?
The Gospel is the revelation of God through Jesus Christ. The gospel is “good news” from God to man, from heaven to earth, from the infinitely holy to the lowest depths of human wretchedness and sin. The gospel is a voice from heaven breaking through the silence or discord of our natural condition; it is good news in relation to our sins, salvation, and eternity. It remedies the greatest evils and supplies the deepest wants of man. J. A. Alexander, D. D. The Gospel is the beginning.
Mark’s purpose in writing this Gospel: to make the good news accessible to Gentiles, to be an apologist of the cross, to encourage those who were facing persecution. Mark is the Gospel of action, moving rapidly from one scene to another. He substantiates the messianic claims of Jesus by emphasizing His authority as a Teacher (1:22) and His author over Satan and unclean spirits and sin (1:27; 3:19-30; 2:1-12). Before I start with chapter one of Mark, I’d like to continue with the purpose in writing this Gospel, in light of today’s America. Even with the radical changes in our society, the church is largely silent, why; three misconceptions concerning the radical changes in our society.
Mark is the shortest of the four gospels. In comparison with Matthew and Luke, it contains relatively little teachings of Jesus and nothing at all about His birth and childhood. Starting with the ministry of John the Baptist, it comes immediately to the public ministry of Christ, ending with his death and resurrection. It is believed by most scholars to be the earliest of the four NT Gospels. Mark wrote down this Gospel, probably at Rome, with non- Jewish readers in mind. Mark portrays Jesus as the model for all people, his purpose in writing this Gospel:
John Mark (John is his Jewish name, and Mark is his Gentile or Roman name) may not be as well-known as Peter, Paul, John or many of the other New Testament personalities. Yet a quick survey of his life reveals time tested truths that are good for us to keep in mind even today. The Bible tells us John Mark was the close cousin of Barnabas, from the island of Cyprus (Acts 4:36). Mark wrote from Rome, using Peter as his primary source. Many believe that Matthew and Luke based their Gospels on Mark’s. Mark's gospel is an ideal introduction to the Christian faith.
Ordination Service for Michael Britt Michael Britt- Intro Sermonette Pastor Don Westbrook- Sermon Mitchell Britt- Remarks and Ordination Scripture
The vision of the valley of dry bones has been variously interpreted. Some see it as teaching the postexilic return of the exiles; as an analogy for spiritual regeneration and the birth of the church. Dispensational interpreters see here the resurrection and restoration of end times national Israel. Contextually, it is designed to be a message of hope to the exiled Jews. “SFL Bible”
Insofar as eternity is concerned, it makes no difference what we think of the world political and religious leaders, the world social and economic problems. Nor does it make much difference what we think of the Protestants, Catholics, Jews or the Muslims. However, our soul's eternal destiny will definitely be determined by how we honestly respond to this question---"What think ye of Christ?"
Although the Jews did not like the Samaritans, Jesus purposely went through their territory; for it was here in the shade of a well to an ostracized woman He announced His identity: “I am the Messiah.” Suddenly the insignificance of her life was swallowed by the significance of the moment. “God is here! God has come! God cares…for me.” -Max Lucado
After expressing His own regard to the work that was given Him to do, our Savior stimulates His disciples to similar zeal. The people were ready to hear if only the gospel were delivered unto them.
The Israelites often burned incense, but this holy incense could be burned only in the tabernacle. Here God gave the recipe for this special incense. This incense was burned to show honor and reverence to God. This incense was so holy that the people were strictly forbidden to copy it for personal use. The visual aids, described in Exodus 30:34-38, gives us a wonderful insight into the area of worship:
Hear a millennial's plea. The Gospel is growing around the world and America is trending towards the Vanishing Christianity of Europe unless the next generation takes its faith seriously, and the older generations express a willingness to engage younger believer's tough questions.
Today we look squarely and honestly into the center of the dark clouds and the raging storm in the life of Job. Job is portrayed as a wealthy man of upright character who loves God. Yet God allows Satan to destroy his flocks, his possessions, his children, and his health. Job refuses to give up on God, even though he does not understand why this is happening to him. We, too, must trust God when we do not understand the difficulties we face.
Paul's dramatic trip to Rome was an eventful journey of faith against the most difficult of circumstances. One of the lessons we learn is that no matter how hard the enemy tries to stop God's work in a believer's life, believers can trust God. The Holy Spirit enables believers to trust God and persevere during difficult times. In spite of all that happened to him, Paul remained focused on the gospel of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:12-14).
The crises of life have often been compared to stormy seas. There are times life seems like a relentless voyage from one storm to the next. The text is a reminder of Jesus' saving presence in the presence of storms that seek to overwhelm the believer's life.
God can use unlikely sources to humble us, God can send us unlikely places for help, and God uses unlikely people to teach us about trust.
Hands are capable of performing surgery or playing a musical instrument. They are able to lift objects weighing hundreds of pounds or throwing something very far. They can be used to deliver a violent blow or for the most gentle caress. Hands can be used for the earthiest of tasks like changing a diaper or for the most sacred of purposes such as receiving the bread and cup that remind us of the death of Jesus. May I invite you to consider the difference between hands which are open to help, heal, share, and bless as Jesus does and hands that are closed, hard, and tight-fisted. ‘Hands’ are mentioned in the Bible over 1,800 times.
Hands are capable of performing surgery or playing a musical instrument. They are able to lift objects weighing hundreds of pounds or throwing something very far. They can be used to deliver a violent blow or for the most gentle caress. Hands can be used for the earthiest of tasks like changing a diaper or for the most sacred of purposes such as receiving the bread and cup that remind us of the death of Jesus. May I invite you to consider the difference between hands which are open to help, heal, share, and bless as Jesus does and hands that are closed, hard, and tight-fisted. ‘Hands’ are mentioned in the Bible over 1,800 times.
We are in week 3 of a series on marriage. In week 1 we looked at “In the beginning marriage,” the formation of marriage. In week 2 we examined “Conflict in Marriage.” Today we look at how to handle the conflicts and thereby strengthen our marriages. It’s not hard to come up with the reason there are conflicts, and why we fuss and argue; the main thing is to know how we are going to handle them. It is important to know how we are going to avoid them.
Everyone knows what it is to have arguments, conflicts, fussing, pressure and disagreements in the marriage relationship. What causes them? What can we do about them? I can’t tell all the causes, but I can give some spiritual reasons for many of them. If we know the causes and the cure for them we can put up our defenses and grow spiritually.
Bible plan help (Word of Promise Audio Bible) Genesis 38; Genesis 39; Genesis 40; John 7:1-9; Mark 10:1; Matthew 19:1-2; Luke 9:51-62; Matthew 8:18-22; John 7:10-8:59; Luke 10-13:17; NKJV