Novation Church: Recent Episodes

Novation Church

No Longer Slaves

“Now where there is forgiveness of these things, an offering for sin is no longer required.Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus,by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, through His flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God,let’s approach God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.Let’s hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds,not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:18-25 NASB

We are no longer slaves to sin (Vs. 18-21)
We are no longer slaves to fear (Vs. 22-23)
We are no longer slaves to apathy (Vs. 24-25)

Hebrews 9

Par-rah-GHEE-no-my = Appear, Appearing, Arrive, Arrived, Come, Coming

Three “Appearing’s” of Christ

His First appearance (Hebrews 9:1-10)

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 CSB

His Heavenly appearance

“But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things having come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made by hands, that is, not of this creation; and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all time, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling those who have been defiled, sanctify for the cleansing of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?… For Christ did not enter a holy place made by hands, a mere copy of the true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;nor was it that He would offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Holy Place year by year with blood that is not his own. Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been revealed to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Hebrews 9:11-14, 24-26 NASB

His Second Appearing

“And just as it is destined for people to die once, and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” Hebrews 9:28 NASB

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time for my departure is close. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. There is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8 CSB

“God’s saving grace, you see, appeared for all people. It teaches us that we should turn our backs on ungodliness and the passions of the world, and should live sober, just and devout lives in the present age, while we wait eagerly for the blessed hope and royal appearing of the glory of our great God and savior, Jesus the Messiah. He gave himself for us so that he could ransom us from all lawless actions and purify for himself a people as his very own who would be eager for good works.” Titus 2:11-14 NTFE

“Look, I am coming soon, and my reward is with me to repay each person according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end…The spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let anyone who hears say, “Come!” Let the thirsty come; let anyone who wants the water of life take it freely… Yes, I am coming soon.”

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone. Amen.” Revelation 22:12-13, 17, 20-21 CSB

Even So Come

Hebrews 9

Par-rah-GHEE-no-my = Appear, Appearing, Arrive, Arrived, Come, Coming

Three “Appearing’s” of Christ

His First appearance (Hebrews 9:1-10)

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 CSB

PIC goes here

His Heavenly appearance

“But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things having come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made by hands, that is, not of this creation; and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all time, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling those who have been defiled, sanctify for the cleansing of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?… For Christ did not enter a holy place made by hands, a mere copy of the true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;nor was it that He would offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Holy Place year by year with blood that is not his own. Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been revealed to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Hebrews 9:11-14, 24-26 NASB

His Second Appearing

“And just as it is destined for people to die once, and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” Hebrews 9:28 NASB

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time for my departure is close. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. There is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8 CSB

PLEASE PUT THE VIDEOS HERE

“God’s saving grace, you see, appeared for all people. It teaches us that we should turn our backs on ungodliness and the passions of the world, and should live sober, just and devout lives in the present age, while we wait eagerly for the blessed hope and royal appearing of the glory of our great God and savior, Jesus the Messiah. He gave himself for us so that he could ransom us from all lawless actions and purify for himself a people as his very own who would be eager for good works.” Titus 2:11-14 NTFE

“Look, I am coming soon, and my reward is with me to repay each person according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end…The spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let anyone who hears say, “Come!” Let the thirsty come; let anyone who wants the water of life take it freely… Yes, I am coming soon.”

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone. Amen.” Revelation 22:12-13, 17, 20-21 CSB

In Christ Alone

“Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister in the sanctuary and in the true tabernacle, which the Lord set up, not man. For every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices; so it is necessary that this high priest also have something to offer. Now if He were on earth, He would not be a priest at all, since there are those who offer the gifts according to the Law; who serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things, just as Moses was warned by God when he was about to erect the tabernacle; for, “See,” He says, “that you make all things by the pattern which was shown to you on the mountain.” But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, to the extent that He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises. For if that first covenant had been free of fault, no circumstances would have been sought for a second. For in finding fault with the people, He says, “Behold, days are coming, says the Lord, When I will bring about a new covenant With the house of Israel and the house of Judah, Not like the covenant which I made with their fathers On the day I took them by the hand To bring them out of the land of Egypt; For they did not continue in My covenant, And I did not care about them, says the Lord. For this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel After those days, declares the Lord: I will put My laws into their minds, And write them on their hearts. And I will be their God, And they shall be My people. And they will not teach, each one his fellow citizen, And each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ For they will all know Me, From the least to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful toward their wrongdoings, And their sins I will no longer remember.” When He said, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. But whatever is becoming obsolete and growing old is about to disappear.” Hebrews 8:1-13 NASB

“Behold, I am making all things new.” Revelation 21:5 NASB

What is new?

A new High Priest (Hebrews 8:1-6)

“Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister in the sanctuary and in the true tabernacle, which the Lord set up, not man. For every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices; so it is necessary that this high priest also have something to offer. Now if He were on earth, He would not be a priest at all, since there are those who offer the gifts according to the Law; who serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things, just as Moses was warned by God when he was about to erect the tabernacle; for, “See,” He says, “that you make all things by the pattern which was shown to you on the mountain.” But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, to the extent that He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises.”

A new covenant (Hebrews 8:7-8, 13)

“For if that first covenant had been free of fault, no circumstances would have been sought for a second. For in finding fault with the people, He says, “Behold, days are coming, says the Lord, When I will bring about a new covenant With the house of Israel and the house of Judah, Not like the covenant which I made with their fathers On the day I took them by the hand To bring them out of the land of Egypt; For they did not continue in My covenant, And I did not care about them, says the Lord… When He said, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. But whatever is becoming obsolete and growing old is about to disappear.”

A new creation (Hebrews 8:10, 12)

“For this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel After those days, declares the Lord: I will put My laws into their minds, And write them on their hearts. And I will be their God, And they shall be My people…For I will be merciful toward their wrongdoings, And their sins I will no longer remember.”

A new community (Hebrews 8:11)

“And they will not teach, each one his fellow citizen, And each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ For they will all know Me, From the least to the greatest of them.”

The Power of an indestructible Life

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and reliable and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.”

“For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham as he was returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, to whom also Abraham apportioned a tenth of all the spoils, was first of all, by the translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then also king of Salem, which is king of peace. Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he remains a priest perpetually.” Hebrews 6:19-20-7:1-3 NASB

“And this is clearer still, if another priest arises according to the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest not on the basis of a law of physical requirement, but according to the power of an indestructible life. Hebrews 7:15-16 NASB

The Power of a Permanent Priesthood

“For it is attested of Him, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek…The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing; Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently.Therefore He is also able to save forever those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting for us to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens; who has no daily need, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the sins of the people, because He did this once for all time when He offered up Himself. For the Law appoints men as high priests who are weak, but the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, who has been made perfect forever.” Hebrews 7:17, 23-28 NASB

The Power of an Eternal and better covenant

“For, on the one hand, there is the nullification of a former commandment because of its weakness and uselessness (for the Law made nothing perfect); on the other hand, there is the introduction of a better hope, through which we come near to God. And to the extent that it was not without an oath (for they indeed became priests without an oath, but He with an oath through the One who said to Him, “The Lord has sworn And will not change His mind, ‘You are a priest forever’”) by the same extent Jesus also has become the guarantee of a better covenant.” Hebrews 7:18-22 NASB

“Now may the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, that is, Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 NASB

Cornerstone

“So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone,in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:19-22 NASB

How Do I Know If I Am Building My Life On The Cornerstone?

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts on them, will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of Mine, and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and its collapse was great.” Matthew 7:24-27 NASB

Ask the following questions

Am I listening?

“Concerning him we have much to say, and it is difficult to explain, since you have become poor listeners.” Hebrews 5:11 NASB

Am I maturing?

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the actual words of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unacquainted with the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to distinguish between good and evil. Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ, let us press on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God,of instruction about washings and laying on of hands, and about the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment. And this we will do, if God permits.” Hebrews 5:12-14, 6:1-3 NASB

Am I persevering?

For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame. For ground that drinks the rain which often falls on it and produces vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is also tilled, receives a blessing from God;but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned.” Hebrews 6:4-8 NASB

Am I hoping?

But, beloved, we are convinced of better things regarding you, and things that accompany salvation, even though we are speaking in this way. For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, by having served and by still serving the saints.And we desire that each one of you demonstrate the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and endurance inherit the promises.For when God made the promise to Abraham, since He could swear an oath by no one greater, He swore by Himself,saying, “indeed I will greatly bless you and I will greatly multiply you.” And so, having patiently waited, he obtained the promise. For people swear an oath by one greater than themselves, and with them an oath serving as confirmation is an end of every dispute. In the same way God, desiring even more to demonstrate to the heirs of the promise the fact that His purpose is unchangeable, confirmed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to hold firmly to the hope set before us.This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and reliable and one which enters within the veil,where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 6:9-20 NASB

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let’s hold firmly to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need.” Hebrews 4:14-16 NASB

“For every high priest taken from among men is appointed on behalf of people in things pertaining to God, in order to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins; he can deal gently with the ignorant and misguided, since he himself also is clothed in weakness; and because of it he is obligated to offer sacrifices for sins for himself, as well as for the people. And no one takes the honor for himself, but receives it when he is called by God, just as Aaron also was. So too Christ did not glorify Himself in becoming a high priest, but it was He who said to Him, “You are My Son, Today I have fathered You”; just as He also says in another passage, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.” In the days of His humanity, He offered up both prayers and pleas with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His devout behavior. Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey Him,10 being designated by God as High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5:1-10 NASB

Jesus our Great High Priest is

• The Appointed One (Vs. 1-6)

• The Anointed One (Vs. 7-8)

• The Only One (Vs. 9)

“And having been perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey Him, being designated by God as High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5:9-10

“For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the Man Christ Jesus…” 1 Timothy 2:5 NASB

• Who is Melchizedek? (Genesis 14)

“Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. For we who have believed enter that rest, as he has said “As I swore in my wrath,‘They shall not enter my rest,’” although his works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh day from all his works.” And again in this passage he said, “They shall not enter my rest.” Since therefore it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience, again he appoints a certain day, “Today,” saying through David so long afterward, in the words already quoted, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:1-16 ESV

Pay attention

“Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. Hebrews 4:1,2 ESV

Understand the three different facets of rest
The Rest of Completeness

“For we who have believed enter that rest, as he has said, “As I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my rest,’” although his works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh day from all his works.” Hebrews 4:3, 4 ESV

The Rest of Resistance

“And again in this passage he said, “They shall not enter my rest.” Since therefore it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience.” Hebrews 4:5,6 ESV

The Rest of Culmination

“Again he appoints a certain day, “Today,” saying through David so long afterward, in the words already quoted, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God,for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.” Hebrews 4:7-10 ESV

“Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.” Hebrews 4:11 ESV

Allow the scriptures to penetrate your heart

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” Hebrews 4:12,13 ES

Depend on Jesus

“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV

“Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession: Jesus; He was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was in all His house. For He has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, by just so much as the builder of the house has more honor than the house. For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God. Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken later; but Christ was faithful as a Son over His house—whose house we are, if we hold firmly to our confidence and the boast of our hope. Therefore, just as the Holy Spirit says, “Today if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as when they provoked Me, As on the day of trial in the wilderness, Where your fathers put Me to the test, And saw My works for forty years. Therefore I was angry with this generation, And said, ‘They always go astray in their heart, And they did not know My ways’; As I swore in My anger, ‘They certainly shall not enter My rest.’” Take care, brothers and sisters, that there will not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. But encourage one another every day, as long as it is still called “today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ if we keep the beginning of our commitment firm until the end, while it is said, “Today if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts, as when they provoked Me.” For who provoked Him when they had heard? Indeed, did not all those who came out of Egypt led by Moses? And with whom was He angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose dead bodies fell in the wilderness? And to whom did He swear that they would not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? And so we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief.” Hebrews 3:1-19 NASB

Faith (Vs. 1-6)
Doubt (Vs. 7-14)
Unbelief (Vs. 15-19)

“For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our fathers were all under the cloud and they all passed through the sea; and they all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and they all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ. Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased; for their dead bodies were spread out in the wilderness. Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they indeed craved them. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: “The people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play.” Nor are we to commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day. Nor are we to put the Lord to the test, as some of them did, and were killed by the snakes. Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were killed by the destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. Therefore let the one who thinks he stands watch out that he does not fall. No temptation has overtaken you except something common to mankind; and God is faithful, so He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” 1 Corinthians 10:1-14 NASB

Christ is enough so turn your complaints into thanks

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NASB

Christ is enough so follow Him wholeheartedly

“But because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it.” Numbers 14:24 NIV

Christ is enough so rest in His salvation

“Now to Him who is able to protect you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory, blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Jude 1:24-25 NASB

Hebrews Chapter 2

Since there is no one like Him

Pay close attention to Him

“For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it. For if the word spoken through angels proved unalterable, and every violation and act of disobedience received a just punishment, how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard, God also testifying with them, both by signs and wonders, and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will.” Hebrews 2:1-4 NASB

Live in the tension with Him

“For He did not subject to angels the world to come, about which we are speaking. But someone has testified somewhere, saying, “What is man, that You think of him? Or a son of man, that You are concerned about him? You have made him for a little while lower than angels; You have crowned him with glory and honor; You have put everything in subjection under his feet.” For in subjecting all things to him, He left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we do not yet see all things subjected to him.” Hebrews 2:5-8 NASB

Bank everything on Him

“But we do see Him who was made for a little while lower than the angels, namely, Jesus, because of His suffering death crowned with glory and honor, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone.

For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect the originator of their salvation through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for this reason He is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, saying, “I will proclaim Your name to My brothers, In the midst of the assembly I will sing Your praise.” And again, “I will put My trust in Him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children whom God has given Me.” Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, so that through death He might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives. For clearly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the descendants of Abraham Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brothers so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted.” Hebrews 2:9-18 NASB

Hebrews Chapter 1

Our great God and His beloved Son

“God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, to the extent that He has inherited a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4 NASB

“This is My beloved Son with Whom I am well pleased…Listen to Him!” Matthew 3:17, 17:5 NASB

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” Colossians 1:15-20 NASB

Our great God and His heavenly family

“For to which of the angels did He ever say, “You are My Son, Today I have fathered You”? And again, “I will be a Father to Him And He will be a Son to Me”? And when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says, “And let all the angels of God worship Him.” And regarding the angels He says, “He makes His angels winds, And His ministers a flame of fire.” Hebrews 1:5-7 NASB

Types Of Heavenly Beings

The Elohim (Exodus 20:3, Psalm 97:7, Psalm 82)

Seraphim (Isaiah 6:1-7)

Cherubim (Genesis 3:24)

Angels (Hebrews 13:2)

Archangels (Jude 1:9, Daniel 10:13, Luke 1:19)

Watchers (Daniel 4:13)

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10-13 NKJV

Our great God and His human family

“Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to provide service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?” Hebrews 1:14 NASB

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” Proverbs 4:23-27 NIV

Boundary #1 Guard your heart and mind (Proverbs 7:25, 14:30, 15:13, 16:21, 18:12, 20:25)

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

HEART = Leb (Hebrew). “The whole spectrum of human emotions. The center of humanities’ inner life. Your spiritual heart: the inner storehouse of our beliefs and the seat of our emotions.”

Boundary #2 Guard your mouth (James 3:1-2, Proverbs 10:19, 12:18, 21:23, 18:21)

“keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”

“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” Psalm 141:3 NIV

Boundary #3 Guard your eyes (1 John 2:16, Proverbs 17:24, 27:20)

“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.”

“We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” Hebrews 12:2 NLT

Boundary #4 Guard your path (Psalm 23:3, Proverbs 1:15, 2:13, 3:6, 4:11, 10:9)

“Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.”

“One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And one who rules his spirit, than one who captures a city.” Proverbs 16:32 NASB

“If you are angry, be sure that it is not out of wounded pride or bad temper. Never go to bed angry—don’t give the devil that sort of foothold.” Ephesians 4:26 JBP

Unwise Ways To Handle Anger

Blow up (Genesis 4:5-8)
Clam up (Jeremiah 15:17-18)
Freeze up (Luke 15:28)
Even up (Luke 6:11)

To handle anger wisely I need to

Remind myself that I will always lose when I lose my temper

“An angry person stirs up strife, And a hot-tempered person abounds in wrongdoing.” Proverbs 29:22 NASB

Three Stages Of Anger

Basic Anger

“Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.” Proverbs 19:11 NLT

Name-Calling

“Stirring milk causes butter to form. Hitting someone’s nose causes blood to flow. And making people angry causes trouble.” Proverbs 30:33 ERV

Pronouncing Judgement

“An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.” Proverbs 29:22 NIV

Recognize the root of my anger

“People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.” Proverbs 14:29 NLT

Respond rather than react

“Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.” Proverbs 29:11 NIV

Remember the Lord

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1 NIV

“When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” 1 Peter 2:23 NIV

“But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” Psalm 86:15 NIV

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight…Blessed is a person who finds wisdom, And one who obtains understanding. For her profit is better than the profit of silver, And her produce better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, And nothing you desire compares with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her,
And happy are those who hold on to her.” Proverbs 3:5-6, 13-18 NASB

Why Do We Need Wisdom Concerning Our Emotions?

Because feelings are often unreliable

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Proverbs 14:12 ESV

Because God does not want us to be manipulated by how we feel but walk in what in what is true

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Because God can’t rule my life if my emotions are ruling
Because if we don’t we become vulnerable to attacks from the enemy

“A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” Proverbs 25:28 NLT

How Can I Learn To Manage My Emotions?

I need to identify what I am feeling

“Why, my soul, are you downcast…? Psalm 42:5a NIV

I need to challenge what I am feeling

“Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Psalm 42:5b NIV

I need to channel what I am feeling

Into worship: “Rejoice always.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16

Into action: (See 2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

I need to surrender what I am feeling to God

“For we walk by faith not sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7 NASB

“How precious is Your mercy, God!

And the sons of mankind take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.” Psalm 36:7 NASB

“Hatred stirs up conflicts, but love covers all offenses.” Proverbs 10:12 CSB

“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but one slow to anger calms strife.” Proverbs 15:18 CSB

“A contrary person spreads conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” Proverbs 16:28 CSB

“To start a conflict is to release a flood; stop the dispute before it breaks out.” Proverbs 17:24 CSB

“Without wood, fire goes out; without a gossip, conflict dies down.” Proverbs 26:20 CSB

“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 CSB

The Cause Of Conflict

“Who among you is wise and understanding? By his good conduct he should show that his works are done in the gentleness that comes from wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t boast and deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come down from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there is disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without pretense. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.” James 3:13-18 CSB

The Consequences Of Conflict

It hinders my fellowship with God
It hinders my prayers
It hinders my happiness

The Cure For Conflict

Step Up

“Hatred stirs up conflicts, but love covers all offenses.” Proverbs 10:12 CSB

“So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24 CSB

Own up

“But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6 NASB (Proverbs 3:23)

“Why do you notice the small piece of dust that is in your friend’s eye, but you don’t notice the big piece of wood that is in your own? Why do you say to your friend, ‘Let me take that piece of dust out of your eye’? Look at yourself first! You still have that big piece of wood in your own eye. You are a hypocrite! First, take the wood out of your own eye. Then you will see clearly to get the dust out of your friend’s eye.” Matthew 7:3-5 ERV

Hush up

“Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.” Proverbs 11:12 NIV

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,” James 1:19 NIV

Grow up

“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19:11 NIV

“Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” Colossians 3:12-14 NLT

Bear up

“Love is patient…love bears all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:4, 7

“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.” Proverbs 17:9 NIV

Speak up

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Proverbs 12:18 NIV

“…speak the truth in love…” Ephesians 4:15

Look up

“Do you know where your fights and arguments come from? They come from the selfish desires that make war inside you. You want things, but you don’t get them. So you kill and are jealous of others. But you still cannot get what you want. So you argue and fight. You don’t get what you want because you don’t ask God.” Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:1-2, 7 ERV/NIV

What Are The Proverbs?

The Proverbs are God inspired principles for living a wise and godly life

“Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding.
For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.” Proverbs 3:13-18 NLT

Who Wrote The Proverbs?

“These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel.” Proverbs 1:1 NLT

What Is The Purpose Of The Proverbs?

“Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young.” Proverbs 1:2-4 NLT

“The Psalms teach us how to get along with God, the Proverbs teach us how to get along with each other.” Billy Graham

The Proverbs focus on human character and conduct
The Proverbs help us to learn how to make right and wise decisions

Who Is Wise?

The person who fears the Lord (Proverbs 1:7, 9:10)
The person who obeys God’s word (Proverbs 1:5, 3:1, 23:12)
The person who seeks instruction and continues learning (Proverbs 9:9)
The person who seeks humility (Proverbs 3:7a, 11:2)
The person who controls their anger and tongue (Proverbs 10:19, 14:17, 16:23)

How To Get Wisdom

Desireit sincerely

“Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment. If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will honor you.” Proverbs 4:7-8 NLT

Look for it in the Scriptures

“The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.” Psalms 19:7 NLT

“You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17 NLT

Ask for it in prayer

“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” James 1:5 NLT

Spend time with those who are wise

“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” Proverbs 13:20 NLT

“Surely you know that you become the slaves of whatever you give yourselves to. Anything or anyone you follow will be your master. You can follow sin, or you can obey God. Following sin brings spiritual death, but obeying God makes you right with him.” Romans 6:16 ERV

“He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44 NASB

“Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Indeed, has God said, ‘You shall not eat from any tree of the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat; but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.’” The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.” Genesis 3:1-6 NASB

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 NASB

“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.” Ephesians 2:1-3 NASB

Remember that you were dead

But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7 NASB

Recognize that you have been made alive

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 NASB

Respond by walking in the riches of His grace and doing the good works prepared for you

Matthew 24

What are the signs of His return?

False versions of Jesus Vs.5

Wars and Rumors of war/Nations against nations Vs. 6-7

Famines and earthquakes Vs. 7

Persecution of the Church Vs. 9

Betrayal and hatred Vs. 10

False Prophets Vs. 11

Lawlessness and Cold hearts Vs. 12

Why Has He Not Returned?

“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14 NASB

“But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:8-9 NASB

How To Prepare For His Return

Be Eager

“And as He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” Matthew 24:3 NASB

Be Aware

“And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you.For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will mislead many people. And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pains. “Then they will hand you over to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. And at that time many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people… For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will provide great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect.” Matthew 24:4-11, 24 NASB

Be Faithful

“But about that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone.” Matthew 24:36 NASB

Be Wise

“For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Matthew 24:37-39 NASB

Be Alert

“Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.” Matthew 24:42 NASB

Be Ready

“For this reason you must be ready as well; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.” Matthew 24:44 NASB

“The first account Icomposed,Theophilus, about all that Jesusbegan to do and teach,until the day when Hewas taken upto heaven, after Hehad given ordersby the Holy Spirit tothe apostles whom He hadchosen. TotheseHe also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them overa period offorty days and speaking ofthings regarding the kingdom of God.Gathering them together, He commanded themnot to leave Jerusalem, but to wait forwhat the Father had promised,“Which,”He said,“you heard of from Me;forJohn baptizedwith water, but you will be baptizedwith the Holy Spiritnot many days from now.” So, when they had come together, theybeganasking Him, saying, “Lord,is it at this time that You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?” But He said to them,“It is not for you to know periods of time or appointed times whichthe Father has set by His own authority; but you will receive powerwhen the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall beMy witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, andSamaria, and as far asthe remotest part of the earth.” And after He had said these things,He was lifted up while they were watching, and a cloud took Him up, out of their sight. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, then behold,two men in white clothing stood beside them, and they said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, whohas been taken up from you into heaven, willcome in the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:1-11 NASB

Where Is Jesus Now?

He is ruling and reigning over His kingdom at the right hand of the Father

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the boundless greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And He put all things in subjection under His feet and made Him head over all things to the church,which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.” Ephesians 1:18-22 NASB

What Is He Doing?

He is building His church

“I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.” Matthew 16:18 NLT

He is preparing a place for us

“There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:2-3 NLT

He is with believers that have gone before us

“We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8 NKJV

Three Things Jesus Left Behind

1.) An unmatchable presence

“you will receive powerwhen the Holy Spirit has come upon you” 1:8a

This Brings:

Passion

“Since we live by the Spirit,let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5:25 NIV

Purity

“So I say, walk by the Spirit,and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 NIV

Power

“…be filled with the Spirit” Ephesians 5:18 NIV

Promptings

“For those who are led by the Spirit of Godare the children of God.” Romans 8:14 NIV

2.) An unfinished task

“and you shall beMy witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, andSamaria, and as far asthe remotest part of the earth.” 1:8b

The work of Jesus is finished (John 19:30, Hebrews 1:3)

The work of the church is unfinished

“And this gospel of the kingdomwill be preached in the whole worldas a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14 NIV

3.) An unshakable promise

“This Jesus, whohas been taken up from you into heaven, willcome in the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.” 1:11

“So if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.” John 8:36 NASB

“Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.” Galatians 5:1 MSG

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 NASB

The Resurrection gives me harmony with the past

“He who was delivered over because of our wrongdoings, and was raised because of our justification.” Romans 4:35 NASB

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost sinner Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NASB

The Resurrection gives me help for today

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” Romans 8:11 NLT

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27 NIV

The Resurrection gives me Hope for the future

“I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.” John 11:25-26 NASB

“Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, so that through death He might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.” Hebrews 2:14-15 NASB

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as indeed the rest of mankind do, who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so also God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus. For we say this to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 NASB

“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 NASB

The Power of the Curse

Genesis 3:1-24

“The earth will be completely laid waste and completely plundered, for the Lord has spoken this word. The earth dries up and crumbles away, the mainland dries out and crumbles away, the exalted of the people of the earth dwindle. The earth is also defiled by its inhabitants, for they violated laws, altered statutes, and broke the everlasting covenant. Therefore, a curse devours the earth, and those who live on it suffer for their guilt. Therefore, the inhabitants of the earth decrease in number, and few people are left.” Isaiah 24:3-6 NASB

“Now it shall be, if you diligently obey the Lord your God, being careful to do all His commandments which I am commanding you today, that the Lord your God will put you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings will come to you and reach you if you obey the Lord your God.” Deuteronomy 28:1-2 NASB

“But it shall come about, if you do not obey the Lord your God, to be careful to follow all His commandments and His statutes which I am commanding you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you. Deuteronomy 28:15 NASB

The Power of the Cross

“It is finished…” John 19:30

Adam and Eve took from the tree

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us—for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree” Galatians 3:13 NASB

They took from the tree with their hands

“They pierced my hands…” Psalm 22:16 NASB

Fulfilled the word in Genesis 3:15

“They pierced my…feet” Psalm 22:16

Eve came from Adam’s side

“So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then He took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh at that place.” Genesis 2:21 NASB

Jesus’ crown of thorns

“Cursed is the ground because of you; With hard labor you shall eat from it All the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you; Yet you shall eat the plants of the field;” Genesis 3:17-18 NASB

The Power of the Christ

“I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed up with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and to break its seals?” And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it. Then I began to weep greatly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it. And one of the elders said to me, “Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to be able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” And I saw between the throne (with the four living creatures) and the elders a Lamb standing, as if slaughtered, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. And He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne. When He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are You to take the scroll and to break its seals; for You were slaughtered, and You purchased people for God with Your blood from every tribe, language, people, and nation. You have made them into a kingdom and priests to our God, and they will reign upon the earth.” Revelation 5:1-10 NASB

Jeremiah 32:6-15

“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15 NASB

“If it were an enemy insulting me, I could bear it. If it were my enemies attacking me, I could hide. But it is you, the one so close to me, my companion, my good friend, who does this. We used to share our secrets with one another, as we walked through the crowds together in God’s Temple.” Psalm 55:12-14 ERV

What is betrayal?

The act of exposing or delivering someone to an enemy through treachery or disloyalty.

The act of revealing information in violation of confidence.

The act of disappointing a person’s trust, hopes, or expectations.

Who betrayed Jesus?

Judas Iscariot

“While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve apostles came there. He had a big crowd of people with him, all carrying swords and clubs. They had been sent from the leading priests and the older leaders of the people. Judas planned to do something to show them which one was Jesus. He said, “The one I kiss will be Jesus. Arrest him.” So he went to Jesus and said, “Hello, Teacher!” Then Judas kissed him. Jesus answered, “Friend, do the thing you came to do.” Then the men came and grabbed Jesus and arrested him.” Matthew 26:47-50 ERV

Simon Peter

“And Peter remembered the statement that Jesus had made: “Before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.” Matthew 26:75 NASB

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

Everyone

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…” Romans 3:23 NASB

There is no righteous person, not even one; There is no one who understands, There is no one who seeks out God; They have all turned aside, together they have become corrupt; There is no one who does good, There is not even one.” “Their throat is an open grave, With their tongues they keep deceiving,” “The venom of asps is under their lips”; “Their mouth is full of cursing and bitterness”; “Their feet are swift to shed blood, Destruction and misery are in their paths, And they have not known the way of peace.” “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Romans 3:10-18 NASB

What was Jesus’ response to betrayal?

“Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

“It is finished.” John 19:30

Our response to betrayal

“Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.” Psalm 27:10 NIV

“Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James, and his brother John, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Peter responded and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If You want, I will make three tabernacles here: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground and were terrified. And Jesus came to them and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” And raising their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.” Matthew 17:1-8 NASB

“For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such a declaration as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory: “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well pleased”— and we ourselves heard this declaration made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.” 2 Peter 1:16-18 NASB

Glory

“Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James, and his brother John, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.” Vs 1-3

The transfiguration connects God’s glory in the Old Testament with Jesus

The transfiguration shows that Jesus is the glory of God

Fear

“Lord, it is good that we are here. If You want, I will make three tabernacles here: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground and were terrified.” Vs. 4-6

“Therefore, having such a hope, we use great boldness in our speech, and we are not like Moses, who used to put a veil over his face so that the sons of Israel would not stare at the end of what was fading away. But their minds were hardened; for until this very day at the reading of the old covenant the same veil remains unlifted, because it is removed in Christ. But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their hearts; but whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. But we all, with unveiled faces, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 NASB

Peace

“And Jesus came to them and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” And raising their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.” Vs. 7-8

“From that time Jesus began to point out to His disciples that it was necessary for Him to go to Jerusalem and to suffer many things from the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and to be killed, and to be raised up on the third day. And yet Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You!” But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s purposes, but men’s.” Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.For what good will it do a person if he gains the whole world, but forfeits his soul? Or what will a person give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and will then repay every person according to his deeds. “Truly I say to you, there are some of those who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” Matthew 16:21-28 NASB

How do I answer His call?

Die to self

“Deny yourself”

“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:3 NASB

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20 NASB

“If you live in accordance with the flesh, you will die; but if, by the spirit, you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” Romans 8:13 NTFE

Die to my agenda

“Take up your cross”

“For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” Matthew 16:23 ESV

“To fulfill your mission will require you to abandon your agenda and accept God’s agenda for your life. You cant just tack it on to all the other things you would like to do with your life…You yield your rights, expectations, dreams, plans, and ambitions to Him…You hand God a blank sheet with your name signed at the bottom and tell Him to fill in the details.” Rick Warren

Die daily

“Follow Me”

Choose sacrifice over selfish ambitions
Choose servanthood over power
Choose risk over comfort

“Let us often ask ourselves whether our Christianity costs us anything.” JC Ryle

Die to the temporal

“Lose your life for Me”

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21 NASB

Matthew 16:13-20

A word about geography

“Now when Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi…” Matthew 16:1 NASB

A question about theology

“…He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah, or one of the other prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you yourselves say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:13-16 NASB

A statement about authority

“And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.” Then He gave the disciples strict orders that they were to tell no one that He was the Christ.” Matthew 16:17-20 NASB

The Samaritan Woman

“Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John—although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples.So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now he had to go through Samaria.So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph.Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?”(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water?Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again,but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water. He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied.Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband.The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” John 4:1-26 NIV

Who were the Samaritans?

Who was the Samaritan Woman?

What is the living water Jesus offered her?

“On the last and greatest day of the festival Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.” John 7:37-39 NIV

“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people,“Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?”They came out of the town and made their way toward him.Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.”So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days.And because of his words many more became believers.They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” John 4:28,29, 39-42 NIV

The three-fold invitation of Jesus:

Cometo Jesus

“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said,rivers of living water will flow from within them.” John 7:37,38 NIV

Leaveyour broken cisterns

“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town…” John 4:28 NIV

“My people have committed two sins:They have forsaken me,the spring of living water,and have dug their own cisterns,broken cisterns that cannot hold water.” Jeremiah 2:13 NIV

Immerseyourself in the water

John 3:1-21

A Religious man

“Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; this man came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” John 3:1-2 NASB

A Religious Problem

“Jesus responded and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someone is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a person be born when he is old? He cannot enter his mother’s womb a second time and be born, can he?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someone is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which has been born of the flesh is flesh, and that which has been born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it is coming from and where it is going; so is everyone who has been born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus responded and said to Him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered and said to him, “You are the teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things? Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know and testify of what we have seen, and you people do not accept our testimony. If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” John 3:3-12 NASB

A Real Solution

“No one has ascended into heaven, except He who descended from heaven: the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes will have eternal life in Him. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but so that the world might be saved through Him. The one who believes in Him is not judged; the one who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the Light; for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light, so that his deeds will not be exposed. But the one who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds will be revealed as having been performed in God.” John 3:13-21 NASB

“Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a Man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know…” Acts 2:22 NASB

Signs (John 2:1-11, 4:46-54, 5:1-15, 6:5-14, 6:16-24, 9:1-7, 11:1-45)

Signs authenticated Jesus as the Christ and revealed His divine authority.

“This beginning of His signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and revealed His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.” John 2;11 NASB

“So then, many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that by believing you may have life in His name.” John 20:30-31 NASB

Wonders (Luke 9:12-17, Matthew 14:22-33)

Wonders inspire awe and worship, highlighting the extraordinary nature of God’s actions.

Miracles (Mark 4:35-41)

Miracles are observable phenomena that deviate from the ordinary course of nature.

“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 NASB

“This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants anymore, because a servant doesn’t know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from my Father. You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give you. “This is what I command you: Love one another.” John 15:12-17 CSB

His small group

“During those days he went out to the mountain to pray and spent all night in prayer to God. When daylight came, he summoned his disciples, and he chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles: Simon, whom he also named Peter, and Andrew his brother; James and John; Philip and Bartholomew; Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the Zealot; Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.” Luke 6:12-17 CSB

His core group

Mark 9:1-13

Luke 8:51

“Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ…For each one will bear his own load.” Galatians 6:2, 5 NASB

His Rock

Peter’s…

Calling (Luke 5:1-11)

Confession (Matthew 16:13-19, John 6:66-69)

Confusion (Matthew 16:21-23)

Cowardice (Matthew 26:69-75)

Courage (John 21, Acts 2)

“Now Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And He ate nothing during those days, and when they had ended, He was hungry.” Luke 4:1-2 NASB

Peirazo (“Tempted”): To test, to tempt, to try, to examine

Is there a difference between TEMPTATION and TESTING?
Why was Jesus led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tested and tempted by the devil?

“For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15 NASB

Jesus passed every test that all of us have failed to pass starting from Adam and Eve, Israel, and all of humanity.

The Trust test

“And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” Luke 4:3-4 NASB

The Worship test

“And he led Him up and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “I will give You all this domain and its glory, for it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I want. Therefore if You worship before me, it shall all be Yours.” Jesus replied to him, “It is written: ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’” Luke 4:5-8 NASB

The Timing test

“And he brought Him into Jerusalem and had Him stand on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here; for it is written: ‘He will give His angels orders concerning You, to protect You,’ and, ‘On their hands they will lift You up, So that You do not strike Your foot against a stone.’” And Jesus answered and said to him, “It has been stated, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Luke 4:9-12 NASB

“And so when the devil had finished every temptation, he left Him until an opportune time.” Luke 4:13 NASB

John’s Baptism

“Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying,“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, “The voice of one calling out in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight!’” Now John himself had a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. At that time Jerusalem was going out to him, and all Judea and all the region around the Jordan;and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore produce fruit consistent with repentance; and do not assume that you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father’; for I tell you that God is able, from these stones, to raise up children for Abraham. And the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; therefore, every tree that does not bear good fruit is being cut down and thrown into the fire. “As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:1-12 NASB

Jesus’ Baptism

“Then Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan, coming to John to be baptized by him.But John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I have the need to be baptized by You, and yet You are coming to me?” But Jesus, answering, said to him, “Allow it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him. After He was baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and settling on Him, and behold, a voice from the heavens said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:13-17 NASB

Why Did Jesus Get Baptized?

He was reliving Israel’s history
He was repenting for us
He was consecrating Himself for ministry
Believers’ Baptism

“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 NASB

Believers’ baptism is sacred
Believers’ baptism is symbolic
Believers’ baptism is singular

His dedication in the Temple

“And when eight days were completed so that it was time for His circumcision, He was also named Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. And when the days for their purification according to the Law of Moses were completed, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord: “Every firstborn male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what has been stated in the Law of the Lord: “A pair of turtledoves or two young doves.” Luke 2:21-24 NASB

His escape from Herod

“Now when they had gone, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up! Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to kill Him.” So Joseph got up and took the Child and His mother while it was still night, and left for Egypt. He stayed there until the death of Herod; this happened so that what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet would be fulfilled: “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” Matthew 2:13-15 NASB

His growth as a human being

“And when His parents had completed everything in accordance with the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. Now the Child continued to grow and to become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the favor of God was upon Him.” Luke 2:39-40 NASB

“And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people.” Luke 2:52 NASB

Jesus grew…

Mentally (In Wisdom)

Physically (In Stature)

Spiritually (In Favor with God)

Socially (Favor with people)

His rejection by His brothers

“After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him. Now the feast of the Jews, the Feast of Booths, was near. So His brothers said to Him, “Move on from here and go into Judea, so that Your disciples also may see Your works which You are doing. For no one does anything in secret when he himself is striving to be known publicly. If You are doing these things, show Yourself to the world.” For not even His brothers believed in Him.” John 7:1-5 NASB

“Is this not the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are His sisters not here with us?” And they took offense at Him.” Mark 6:3 NASB

“James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,” James 1:1 NASB

“But I did not see another one of the apostles except James, the Lord’s brother.” Galatians 1:19 NASB

“Jude, a bond-servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James,” Jude 1:1 NASB

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 NASB

Christ is a title not a name

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:16 NASB

Anointed One, the Messiah

The Christ is God’s Son

“God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, to the extent that He has inherited a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4 NASB

“This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!” Matthew 17:5 NASB

The Christ has no beginning

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5 ESV

The Christ proves God is for us

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Who will bring charges against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, but rather, was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or trouble, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? Just as it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We were regarded as sheep to be slaughtered. “But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:31-39 NASB

The Christ is God with us

“And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 NASB

“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matt 28:16-20 NIV

COMMISSION:

• a formal written warrant granting the power to perform various acts or duties

• an authorization or command to act in a prescribed manner or to perform prescribed acts

• authority to act for, on behalf of, or in place of another

• a task or matter entrusted to one as an agent for another

Jesus led with his actions, often before ever preaching to people:

Fed them (Matthew 14:13-21)
Healed them (Matt 9:1-8)
Served them (John 2:1-11, John 13:1-17)
Spent time and broke bread with them (Matthew 9, Mark 2, Luke 5)
Encouraged them (Matthew 11:28 and John 16:33)
Defended them (John 8:1-11)
Prayed for them (John 17:1-26)

“One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” – Matt 22:35-40 NIV

Truth and accountability without a genuine relationship is transactional. It can appear critical and can cause defensiveness.
Relationship without truth and accountability is superficial and temporal. It lacks real depth and can lead to the degradation of biblical values, having eternal consequences.

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” – 1 Cor 13:1 NIV

“For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, And I have walked in Your truth.” Psalm 26:3 NASB 95

Lovingkindness = “Checed”

Favor, mercy, kindness, goodness

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds…“But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 2:11-14, 3:4-7 NASB 95

His lovingkindness brought salvation to us

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men…when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”

His lovingkindness leads us to repentance

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, Titus 2:11-12 NASB 95

“Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; According to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions.” Psalm 51:1 NASB 95

“Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” Romans 2:4 NASB 95

His lovingkindness will lead us home

looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, Titus 2:13 NASB 95

“Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6 NASB 95

“In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11 NASB

“And He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up; and as was His custom, He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath, and stood up to read.And the book of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. And He opened the book and found the place where it was written“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor.He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives,And recovery of sight to the blind,To set free those who are oppressed,to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.”And He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” Luke 4:16-21 NASB

These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full. John 15:11 NASB

How Do We Pursue And Experience Joy In A Broken World?

Repent and believe

Now after John had been taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:14,15 NASB

Practice gratitude

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7 NIV

Pray about everything
Discipline your mind

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV

“For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of armies will accomplish this.” Isaiah 9:6-7 NASB

“Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful.” John 14:27 NASB

How Does Jesus Give Us His Peace?

Upward peace

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,” Romans 5:1 NASB

Inward peace

“May the Lord of peace himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 CSB

“You will keep the mind that is dependent on you in perfect peace, for it is trusting in you.” Isaiah 26:3 CSB

Outward peace

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” Colossians 3:13-15 NLT

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 NIV

“The poor and the helpless have fled to you and have been safe in times of trouble. You give them shelter from storms and shade from the burning heat…” Isaiah 25:4 GNT

“It’s ok for the Christian to feel helpless, but never hopeless.” Charles Stanley

Helpless: “Unable to help oneself; impossible to control one’s circumstances.”

Hope: ‘The anticipation of something good. The confident expectation of God’s faithfulness.”

“Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals.Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gatea pool, which in Aramaicis called Bethesdaand which is surrounded by five covered colonnades.Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed.One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years.When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him,“Do you want to get well?” “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” Then Jesus said to him,“Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.”At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. The day on which this took place was a Sabbath,” John 5:1-9 NIV

How Do The Helpless Move To Being Hopeful?

Realize and admit I am helpless
Reject self-reliance (Vs. 5-6)
Reject self-pity (Vs.7)

How does Jesus help us when we are helpless? (Vs.8)

“Get up” – Jesus challenges us to do the very thing we cannot do for ourselves
“Take up your mat”- Jesus removed the temptation to go back
“Walk”- Jesus expected continued success

“I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy.
Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!” Psalm 116:1-2 NLT

How does gratitude let God answer our prayers?

“When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God’s eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord’s commandments and regulations. They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old. One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week. As was the custom of the priests, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense. While the incense was being burned, a great crowd stood outside, praying. While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John. You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth. And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly.” Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.” Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah to come out of the sanctuary, wondering why he was taking so long. When he finally did come out, he couldn’t speak to them. Then they realized from his gestures and his silence that he must have seen a vision in the sanctuary. When Zechariah’s week of service in the Temple was over, he returned home. Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months.” Luke 1:5-24 NLT

Gratitude lets God answer in His own time

“But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.” Luke 1:13 NLT

“Teach me, O God, to use all the circumstances of my life today that they may bring forth in me the fruits of holiness rather than the fruits of sin: Let me use disappointment as material for patience. Let me use success as material for thankfulness. Let me use trouble as material for perseverance. Let me use danger as material for courage. Let me use reproach as material for long suffering. Let me use praise as material for humility. Let me use pleasures for material for temperance. Let me use pain as material for endurance.” John Baillie

Gratitude lets God answer in His own way

“Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Luke 1:18 NLT

Gratitude lets God answer in His own power

“Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months.” Luke 1:24 NLT

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20 NLT

Gratitude lets God answer for His own purpose

“And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly.” Luke 1:16-17 NLT

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Revealing the Father’s Heart:

A Prayer Guide

WEEK 4: Nov 24 — Gratitude and Prayer“…that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding the Spirit gives.” — Colossians 1:9

1️⃣ Identity

Father,
I picture You

walking through the first garden

the way I walk through my yard—
checking the soil,

smiling at what’s growing,

calling everything good.

You built Your home for family,

not performance.
You spoke,

and Your children learned Your tone by heart.

That’s what I want—
to live in rhythm with You,

to recognize Your footsteps

the way a child knows a parent’s voice.

You’re still that Father:

steady,

near,

teaching me how life works

when LOVE

is the rule of the house.

2️⃣ Reflection

Somewhere along the way, God,

I forget how to listen.

I fill the day with noise—

plans, opinions, alerts—

and call it responsibility.

But prayer isn’t another task;

it’s walking with You through the yard You planted.

Thank You for showing me

that family

is the language

of heaven.

Every child,

every neighbor,

every argument or meal together
is a lesson in Your will:

learning to love the way You love.

Forgive me Father,

for trying to manage

what You meant for relationship.

3️⃣ Formation

Spirit, help me listen

like a daughter sitting on the porch,
not rushing to fix,

just learning her Father’s way of seeing.

When I talk with my kids,

let Your patience shape my tone.

When I serve my husband or a friend,

remind me I’m practicing Your compassion.

Train me to keep this house like You keep Yours, Father,
grace in the kitchen,

mercy at the door,

peace in every room.

Let my home echo Eden—

a place where LOVE teaches more than words ever could.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Father, thank You

for bringing heaven that close,
for making family

the mirror of Your heart.

Your Will isn’t hidden;

it’s right here

in the way we treat each other.

So today I choose to walk with You,
to tend what You’ve entrusted,
to let Your Spirit fill this ordinary house with holy light.

May every conversation sound a little more like Yours.

Amen.

Nov 25 — Living in the Father’s House

“…so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord.” — Colossians 1:10

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You’re the head of the house,

the steady One

who keeps everything running in LOVE.

When You invite me

to live “worthy of the Lord,”

You’re really saying,

Learn My ways.

Keep the family name honorable.

You’ve shown me what that looks like,

how You correct without crushing,
how You lead with patience, not pride.

Every time I care for someone You’ve trusted to me,
I get a glimpse of how You’ve cared for me.

You teach me

what it means to live under Your roof
by asking me

to offer the same grace

to others

that You keep giving me.

2️⃣ Reflection

I see now how often

I’ve wanted order more than understanding.

I’ve spoken when You would have waited,

pushed when You would have paused.

Yet You stay gentle,

reminding me that relationship comes before rules.

When I’m the one giving direction,
I start to feel how heavy love really is.

It’s not control; it’s protection.

It’s Your voice through mine saying, This is the way; walk in it.

And I hear the reminder: See, child? That’s how I guide you, too.

3️⃣ Formation

Spirit, help me keep this house

like my Father keeps His.

Let correction carry kindness,

and discipline feel like belonging.

When I teach,

let my tone sound like Yours—

steady, hopeful, true.

Make my home a small picture of Yours:
peace in the hallway,

mercy at the table,
forgiveness moving through the walls like air.

Train me to respond

the way You would

if You were standing right beside me—
because You are.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Father, thank You for trusting me with pieces of Your heart.

Every person I mentor,

every moment I guide,

is another chance to practice Your kind of love.

You never asked me to earn worth,

only to live as family—
to carry Your name well

and keep the door open for others.

So today I choose

to run Your household ways in mine:
slow to anger,

quick to grace,

always ready to forgive.
Because that’s what it means to live worthy of You.

Amen.

Nov 26 — Strength That Stays

“…being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might.” — Colossians 1:11

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You don’t measure strength the way the world does.
You hold steady through storms instead of showing off in them.

You taught me that real power is quiet—
it forgives when it could fight,

listens when it could lead.

I see it now in the way You parent.
You don’t rush to fix; You stay close until I learn.

That’s the kind of strength I want—
the kind that keeps the peace in a house that’s still growing up.

2️⃣ Reflection

Most days, I want control more than courage.
When things get heavy,

I reach for shortcuts instead of prayer.

But You never hurry love.
You let hard seasons stretch me

until I see what You’re shaping.

I’m learning that strength isn’t found in avoiding pain
but in staying kind when pain comes.

You’ve stood beside me

through nights I thought would never end—
teaching me that

endurance looks a lot like compassion.

3️⃣ Formation

Spirit, build that strength in me.

When the day feels long

and tempers run thin,
remind me that gentleness is still power.

Let patience anchor me

deeper than exhaustion can reach.

Help me carry peace into every room I enter,
not the kind that hides conflict,
but the kind that calms it.

Teach me to rest before I react,
and to trust that LOVE

will finish what effort can’t.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Father, thank You for proving

that Your might is mercy.

You turned prisons into classrooms

and burdens into blessings.

Every time I hold my tongue or choose grace,
I feel Your strength working through mine.

You’re not just the God who rescues;

You’re the One who remains.

So, I praise You for power that stays.
You are steady, patient, kind,
and I ask that my life show

the same kind of faithfulness.

Amen.

Family Thanksgiving Prayer

(Colossians 1:12 — “Giving joyful thanks to the Father…”)

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You are the reason we have a table at all.
You gave us life, You gave us each other,
and You taught us love by sharing Your Son with us.

Because of You, we belong.

2️⃣ Reflection

Without You, we’d still be strangers—
busy, broken, trying to fill our own plates.

But You brought us close and called us family.

3️⃣ Formation

Teach us to live like people who know that.
Help us share the good things we have,
listen when someone needs a friend,
and say “thank You” before we say anything else.

4️⃣ Exaltation

We’re grateful, Lord.
For this food, this home, these people,
and for Jesus, who made every meal a reminder of Your love.
Bless this table and make our hearts thankful every day.

Amen.

Nov 28 — Thankful for Love

“Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” — 1 Corinthians 13:13

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You designed love before You designed people.

You’ve always lived in relationship—

Father, Son, and Spirit—

each honoring the other,

each pouring out LOVE instead of power.

When You gave me my husband,

You invited me into that same rhythm—
two people learning to live as one,

inside the harmony of Three.

You are the center that keeps us balanced.
Some things are my job,

some are his,

and some belong only to You.

Together we reflect Your image—

love that serves, leads, listens, and stays.

2️⃣ Reflection

God, I see now how often I try to take over Your part.
I want to fix, to manage,

to protect what only Your Spirit can heal.

I forget that real love looks like Jesus—

washing feet, forgiving friends,
choosing humility when He had every right to rule.

You keep showing me

that love isn’t poetry,

it’s practice.

Love is patient, kind,

honest, enduring;

it rejoices in truth.

And when my husband and I fall short,

You remind us that grace still holds,

that Your love keeps no record of wrongs.

3️⃣ Formation

Spirit, help me know my place in this trio of grace.

Teach me when to lead,

when to follow,

and when to wait.

Let my husband lead with gentleness,
and let me respond with trust, gratitude, and strength of my own.

Remind me that You, Holy Spirit,

are our counselor and translator.

Shape our marriage

into a reflection of Yours:

faithful, forgiving, full of peace.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Father, Son, and Spirit—
thank You for weaving my story into Yours.

Thank You for giving me a partner to walk with,
so that together we can learn what love really means.

May our home echo heaven’s rhythm—
different roles, one heart;

different gifts, one grace.

Let our life together become a testimony
that love endures, believes, and never fails.
Amen.

“Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy. Acknowledge that the Lord is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.” Psalm 100:1-5 NLT

How To Worship God

Start with gratitude

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving;”

Let gratitude then lead to praise

“Go into his courts with praise”

“Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart,
In the company of the upright and in the assembly.” Psalm 111:1 NASB

“Whatever you do not turn into praise turns into pride.” Mark Batterson

Let praise then lead to worship

“Worship the Lord with gladness.”

Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, Psalm 95:6 NLT

“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, as He already existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross. For this reason also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11 NASB

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Revealing the Father’s Heart:

A Prayer Guide

WEEK 3:

Nov 17: Monday

Nov 17: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” Hebrews 13:15 [NIV]

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You are the God who stays

when waiting feels endless.

You are faithful in everything,

present in the places that seem forgotten.

I think of Jacob working for what he loved,

and Rachel waiting for what You promised.

Years passed waiting for the promise of love,

and still they stayed—

believing You were doing something

they couldn’t yet see.

That’s what covenant looks like—

love that labors,

trust that keeps showing up.

You were there,

turning their endurance into worship.

You are here now,

forming the same patience in me.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord,

I know that ache of waiting.

Like them, I find myself laboring in unseen fields,

wondering if Your promise still holds,

the promise that feels close enough to touch,

but painfully just out of reach.

So I pray,

And I work,

And I wait—

And I wonder

“Lord, God, Will You remember me?”

Jacob could have run home.

Rachel could have given up hope.

But they chose to remain—

to trust You were still at work

in what looked like delay.

You call that kind of faith, praise.

Not the song after victory,

but the quiet yes that holds on anyway.

Teach me that kind of gratitude,

Teach me to stay when life is difficult,

Teach me to trust that love always prevails.

3️⃣ Formation

Father,
when days repeat
and nothing seems to change,
help me stay faithful in the small things.

Let my labor become prayer,
my waiting become worship.

When I’m tempted to chase control,
steady me with remembrance—
You are working
even when I can’t see progress.

Every hour Jacob worked,
every tear Rachel prayed,
was gathered into Your promise.

You don’t waste, You restore.

Do the same in me.
Let endurance become my hallelujah,
and faithfulness my song.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Thank You, Lord,
for being good
in the middle of the story.

You never waste a season,
never forget a promise.

You are the God who stays in the process
and finishes what You begin.

So here—
between the asking and the answering—
I lift my praise.

This is my offering:
not celebration after completion,
but gratitude while the work continues.

You are faithful,
and I will keep singing that truth
until the promise unfolds.

Amen.

Nov 18: Tuesday

Nov 18: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

God,
You are the One

who moves toward mercy—
from seeing pain

to stepping into it.

You don’t cross the road to avoid suffering;
You cross the distance to restore Your child.

You see the wounds I hide,
the places others ignore,
and You come close,
because mercy doesn’t ignore pain—
it heals what fear leaves behind.

Your mercy

isn’t a moment — it’s endurance.
It sees me,

walks toward me,

surrounds me,
and loves me

always.

I know love is an action,

and You are the Way maker, Lord.
You designed this world for good.
You designed compassion to travel the same road we do—
so that even the smallest act of care
becomes holy when placed in Your hands.

Together—You and I, Lord—
we become a sign along the road
that reminds the world You care.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord, I know this story well.
A man lies wounded on the road,
and others pass him by.

I’ve been both—
the one bleeding,
and the one too busy to stop.
I’ve looked away from another’s pain
and told myself, someone else will help.

But You are the Samaritan in my story.
You saw me stranded,
and You came running—
kneeling in the dust,
bandaging what I could not fix.

Still, You invite me to do the same:
to notice what others miss,
to stay long enough to bind,
to pour out oil and wine without counting the cost.

Your mercy doesn’t measure—it moves.
Let mine do the same.

3️⃣ Formation

Father,
form in me a reflex of kindness,
not delayed, not rehearsed,
just love in motion.

Make my heart a place of peace,
my words a light of hope,
and my home a refuge of healing.

Thank You, Lord, for Your generosity.
You never ask me to go alone;
Your Spirit supplies strength and direction
each time love moves through me.

Take my heart, Lord, and form it like Yours.
Take my eyes to notice what You notice.
Take my hands to lift as Yours lift.
Take my steps to follow
the path of Your compassion.

Teach me to walk Your road,
at Your pace, not ahead in hurry,
not behind in hesitation,
but beside You,
where mercy keeps step with grace.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Jesus,
You are the One who knelt first—
on a dusty road in Samaria,
beside a man left for dead—
and You have been kneeling beside me ever since.

You are the neighbor I’m called to help,
the friend I’m learning to need,
the face of every stranger I meet.

You never hurry past my pain;
You wait for me to join You there,
to learn the rhythm of mercy.

When I’m too proud to stop,
You whisper compassion.

When I’m too weary to move,
You whisper courage.

So I will keep to Your road, Lord,
walking where You walk,
serving where You serve,
loving until love becomes the air I breathe.

For no one else is worthy of all praise;
no one else shares His life so freely.

You are

Lord Most High,
Creator,

Sustainer,

Healer.

With You beside me, whom shall I fear?
You are the One I revere;
the One who calls me Yours.

Amen.

Nov 19: Wednesday

Nov 19: “Sing joyfully to the Lord.” (Ps. 33:1)

1️⃣ Identity

Father,
You are the God who keeps every promise.
You don’t rush deliverance,
but You never forget it either.

Miriam saw You rescue her brother from the river
and spent a lifetime waiting to see You rescue her people.

Eighty years of silence and slavery—
and then, one night, You split the sea.

You turned the path of her childhood fear
into the highway of her freedom.

The same waters that carried Moses as a baby
now swallowed the enemy that once enslaved them.

You are that same Deliverer today.
You don’t just make a way—
You are the Way.

And when I see You move,
when You finish what You began,
all I can do is sing.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord,
I confess—sometimes I wait to sing
until You’ve finished what You’re doing.

I hold back my hallelujahs,
just in case You don’t come through,
forgetting, again and again,
that You always do—
just not always my way.

Miriam didn’t wait for perfect timing.
She praised You while her story was still unfolding.

She sang by faith, not by sight,
and her song became a bridge
between fear and freedom.

She had seen Your miracles before,
and she knew You would do it again.

Teach me to do the same, Lord,
to let worship rise before resolution,
to sing not because everything is fixed,
but because You are faithful
in the middle of it all.

3️⃣ Formation

Father,
make praise my first reflex,
not my final resort.

When fear rises,
let gratitude rise higher and lead me.
When hope grows quiet,
let faith find its voice and speak peace to me.

Remind me that
praise doesn’t deny the storm—
it declares who commands it.

Praise lifts my voice to the heavens
and steadies my heart
where panic once lived.

When I lift my song,

even trembling,
You meet me there.

You turn worry into wonder
and waiting into worship.

Shape my spirit until joy comes easily,
until thanksgiving feels natural,
until praise becomes
the posture of my life.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Thank You, Lord,
for being the same yesterday, today, and forever.

You are the God who opens seas
and silences fear.

You are the One who teaches Your children
to sing again.

So I lift my voice, like Miriam did—
in faith, in memory, in awe.

Not because I’ve seen the end of the story,
but because I’ve seen Your heart.

You are worthy in every circumstance,
faithful in every season,
and good in every way.

This is my joy, Lord—
to sing because You’re near,
to praise because You’re constant,
to rejoice because You are mine.

“So I will sing joyfully, Lord—

for You are my song,

and my salvation.”

Amen.

Nov 20: Thursday

Nov 20: “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.” (Ps. 100:1–3)

1️⃣ Identity

Father,
when the world lost its way,
You didn’t forget Your children.

While chaos rose and voices clashed,
You searched for a family
still willing to listen.

You said, “Build a place of safety.”
And Noah built what love described.

You gathered more than animals, Lord—
You gathered promise.
You sealed a family inside Your mercy,
not because they were perfect,
but because You are faithful.

You are still that Father.
You gather Your children into one house—
the Church—
and call it safety.
Here we are,
different and imperfect,
but still Yours.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord,

I can only imagine what it felt like in there.

Eight souls shut in for months—

three sons, their wives,

one weary father and his bride.

All with opinions,

all with memories of the world that was.

Some days must have felt long.

The air heavy,

the work endless,

the noise relentless.

It wasn’t peace that kept them together—

it was promise.

I see our own reflection in that wooden frame.

We, too, are shut inside the ark of Your grace,

facing the flood of the world outside.

We argue, we worry, we differ—

but You’ve locked the door Yourself.

We are family now.

Even when I’ve felt pushed to the edge, unseen or unwanted,
You remind me there’s room for me here too.

Forgive us for confusing preference with truth,

for letting pride drown out praise,

for forgetting that we share the same breath of grace.

Remind us, Lord,

that unity doesn’t mean agreement—

it means trust in the same Captain.

3️⃣ Formation

Father,

teach us how to live together in Your ark.

When opinions collide,

let humility steer us.

When frustration rises,

let forgiveness break the wave.

When darkness surrounds,

let Your presence be our only light.

Help us hold each other

when the storm outside roars louder than faith.

Help us remember

that no one on this boat is expendable—

every heart is known by You,

every soul carried by the same covenant.

Make our church a living ark, Lord—

a sanctuary that floats on grace,

a refuge that points the world to You.

Teach us to praise,

not by shouting over one another,

but by standing together

in awe of the God who still holds the rudder.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Thank You, Father,
for remembering mercy
when the world forgets how to listen.

You are our shelter in the flood,
our peace in the noise,
our steady ground in the rising waters.

We are different—
brothers and sisters
with our own ways of seeing the world—
Yet trusting the same Savior.
We follow the same Light.
We rest in the same promise.

So we lift our voices now—
in rhythm,
in harmony,
in faith.

This is our song, Lord:
many hearts, one hope;
many stories, one salvation.

You are good.
You are faithful.
And even here—
in the middle of the storm—
we will shout for joy
to the Lord of the ark,
the God who remembers His family.

Amen.

Nov 21: Friday

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and bless His name.”(Psalm 100 : 1-3)

1️⃣ Identity

Father,
You are the God who loves to gather.

From the first garden,
You imagined the table—
light falling golden across the feast,
voices lifted in laughter and story.

You have always been preparing a place
for Your children to come home.

When You say, “Enter My gates,”
it isn’t a demand; it’s a welcome.

Your heart was full
before the door ever opened.
You built this house for belonging,
not for perfection.

You call the weary home
and call it worship.
You call the wanderer home
and call it grace.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord,
here I am again,
dust still on my feet,
heart still catching its breath.

I’ve wandered through noise and hurry,
through arguments and ambitions,
through long weeks of doing and proving.

But the moment I see Your light in the window,
the striving quiets.

You step onto the porch to meet me,
and everything else fades.

You don’t ask for explanation;
You open Your arms.

I confess I forget, Lord—
family was always Your idea.
You never meant for me to earn my way home,
only to remember where I belong.

Thank You for the rhythm of Your kindness
that keeps calling me back.

3️⃣ Formation

Father,
teach me to live

like someone who’s already home.

Let gratitude be more than words before a meal,

make it the way I move through the day.

When I fold laundry or lock the door at night,
remind me I’m standing on holy ground.

When I speak,

let kindness be the accent of my faith.
When I break bread,

let forgiveness be what fills the table.

Make my home a quiet echo of Yours—
peace in the corners,
laughter in the halls,
space for the weary to rest.

And when I step outside,
help me carry that welcome with me—
to the store,

to the office,

to the person who feels unseen.

Let thanksgiving sound like patience,
and praise look like presence.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Thank You, Lord,
for calling us home again and again.

Your gates aren’t guarded—they’re open.
Your courts aren’t distant—they’re here,
in every place Your people remember You.

You turn my coming and going into communion,
my ordinary days into living psalms.

You are good,
and Your love outlasts every season.

From my table to Yours,
from my small life to Your great mercy,
I offer thanks.

Amen.

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NASB

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen… And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” Hebrews 11:1, 6 NASB 95

How Does Gratitude Create Faith?

Gratitude creates faith as we recount the past

“The Lord has done great things for us; We are joyful.” Psalm 126:3 NASB

Gratitude creates faith as we struggle in the present

“These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NASB

“Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-3 NASB

“They followed his advice; and after calling the apostles in, they flogged them and ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and then released them. So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name.” Acts 5:40-41. NASB

Gratitude creates faith as we trust for the future

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 NASB

Gratitude creates faith as we hope in the Gospel

“For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39 NASB

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Revealing the Father’s Heart: A Prayer Guide

WEEK 2:Nov 10: Monday“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus..”

I Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

Father,

sometimes Your goodness

knocks us to the ground.

Saul was convinced he was serving You. zealous for truth;

blind to love.

Then Your light broke through certainty,

and grace spoke his name.

“Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?”

You didn’t shame him; You met him.

You didn’t condemn; You called.

You opened his eyes—

not to law, but to love.

That same kindness has found me too.

You meet me.

You call me.

You teach me to love.

Father,

I know You are good

and Your goodness is not dependent on circumstance.

You are the constant that steadies every transformation,

the light that guides me

when I can’t yet see the way.

2️⃣ Reflection

Father, I need Your light.

I want to let You lead,

but I don’t always know how.

When I start trying to prove my worth, remind me—

I am already worthy.

Help slow my pace to match Yours,

and trust obedience over outcomes.

Help me let go

of what was

never mine to control.

When I get distracted,

draw me back with peace

instead of guilt.

Grow in me endless faith, Lord,

the kind that gives thanks in prison,

finds joy in suffering, and

keeps believing You’re working

even when I can’t see how.

So when life doesn’t go the way I expect,

help me pause before I panic.

Help me look for Your light and

trust that You’re not finished—

You’re just forming something new.

3️⃣ Formation

Father,

You met Saul on the road and stopped him in his tracks.

One moment he was certain;

the next,

he was blind.

Your light knocked him down,

not to punish,

but to give him new sight.

You met him in the dust,

and You meet me there too.

You’re a good Father

and You didn’t leave him blind. You sent Ananias—someone Saul once called an enemy—to call him brother.

Do that in me, Lord.

Heal what pride has damaged,

what fear has hidden.

When I can’t see the way forward,

help me stay close enough to hear You.

Let Your Spirit fill the empty space

where certainty used to live.

Let Your Spirit plant trust

where shame tries to root.

Let Your Spirit speak grace

where fear still whispers.

4️⃣ Exaltation

So here I am Lord,

Changed in You,

but still learning what that means.

You took Saul’s passion

and gave it purpose.

You turned his old strength

into new service.

Do the same with me.

Send me where love is needed most.

Make my story a bridge instead of a wall.

Use my past, my pain, and even my mistakes to point people back to You.

I want to live grateful,

not just when life feels bright,

but even in the shadows,

knowing every step

is part of Your story of healing.

I give thanks

because You’re not finished with me.

You’ve turned conviction into calling,

and surrender into strength.

You are good, Father,

and Your goodness keeps changing me.
Amen.

Nov 11: Tuesday“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord.” (Rev. 11:15)

1️⃣ Identity

Father, Your house

was once alive with childrens’ laughter.

You built it Yourself,

walls of wonder,

rooms of rest.

We were a family

gathered around Your table,

learning love from Your eyes

and peace from Your Word.

But somewhere along the way, a seductive voice rose up.

It promised control,

whispered suspicion,

and soon the whole house shifted—

doors slammed,

trust cracked,

joy thinned to silence.

Still, the deed was always Yours, Father.

Even when rebellion ruled the living room, Your name

remained over the doorframe.

2️⃣ Reflection

That seductive voice

didn’t stop with Eden,

it called to Samson in Gaza,

and it calls to me today.

It turns homes into battlegrounds

and hearts into fortresses.

Samson,

a man You gifted

with incredible strength,

forgot where it came from.

He fought every battle on his own

until his pride

became the chain that bound him.

Only when

everything else was stripped away

did he remember:

the power was never the point,

Your presence was, Lord.

I see that same pattern in me.

I want control,

to handle things myself.

I forget

this is Your house,

Your strength,

Your story.

And when I try to manage what You meant for me to trust, the illusion of control crumbles.

Still, You don’t condemn;

You come close to me.

You whisper

through the rubble,

“I don’t define you by the moments you got it wrong, but by the moment you turned back and trusted Me again.”

3️⃣ Formation

So now, Lord,

teach me

what Samson learned the hard way, that

strength

without surrender

only leads to collapse.

Help me remember

that true power

comes from Your presence,

not my performance.

When pride pushes me

to stand on my own,

teach me

to bow instead.

When I’ve pulled down my own walls,

teach me how

to rebuild

with grace, not grit.

You are not asking for displays of power; You’re asking for trust.

You’re not just restoring what was lost;
You’re restoring who I am,
Your child,

fully dependent,

fully loved.

Let my heart become the place where Your strength and my weakness meet, and where Your Spirit breathes life again, where I rely on You in my daily life.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Lord,

when Samson could no longer see,
he finally looked to You.

Blinded,

broken,

surrounded by enemies,

he prayed the truest prayer of his life:

“O Lord God, remember me. Strengthen me once more.”

And You did.

Not because he was worthy,
but because You are merciful.

Your Spirit returned,

not as a reward,
but as a reminder—

You never leave Your children,

even when they forget who they are.

You still meet us there, Father,

in the ruins and the reaching,

when pride has burned itself out and all that’s left is need.

Your mercy

turns failure into faith,

and Your strength begins where ours runs out.

So I praise You,

God of second chances,

God of returning strength.

You don’t discard the fallen; You rebuild them.

You don’t shame the broken; You restore them.

Let my life echo Samson’s final prayer,

not for my glory,

but for Yours.

Use even my weakness to reveal Your power.

You are good, Lord,

and Your goodness always restores.
Amen.

Nov 12: WednesdayNov 12: “And He shall reign forever and ever.” (Rev. 11:15)

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You sit enthroned

above every council and court.

The nations may rage,

but heaven is steady

because You are.

From the beginning You ruled

not as a tyrant

but as a Father among family,

surrounded by sons of God,

inviting humanity to bear Your image and share Your work.

You never ruled alone;

You’ve always wanted partnership.

Now, through Jesus,

the true Son of Man,

You’ve reclaimed every throne that rebelled, every realm that wandered.

The kingdoms of the world have become Yours again.

The house is secure,

its foundation firm.

Faith, hope, and love are the pillars

that hold it fast—

and we,

Your children,

are the living stones You’ve set within its walls.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord, I admit I forget who’s really in charge.

I still act like I have to hold the world together,

as if my decisions could unseat Your throne.

I listen to lesser voices:

fear,

pride,

anxiety,

control.

They sound convincing, but they’re just echoes of that old rebellion, promising power without presence.

Forgive me

for building my own little councils of worry,

debating every outcome

instead of trusting Your wisdom.

I’ve tried to rule my house by strategy

instead of surrender.

Yet You remain gentle,

still calling,

still reigning,

still offering peace

to all who will come under Your care.

3️⃣ Formation

King Jesus, teach me how to

lead like You,

lead my family,

lead my children,

lead my neighbor,

lead myself.

Teach me to lead,

not through striving, but through service,

not through leverage, but through love.

Let my home become a mirror of Your Kingdom,

a place where truth leads,

faith governs choices,

hope sets the mood,

and love enforces the law.

When storms shake the walls,

remind me that Your foundation cannot crumble.

When fear whispers, “You’re on your own,”

let me remember

the council of heaven is already in session,

and I have a seat at Your table.

You share Your authority not to burden me, but to bless the world through me.

So shape my heart to rule my responsibilities

with Your kindness,

Your steadfast,

Your patience,

Your peace.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Father, even now, heaven is not silent.

Around Your throne,

the elders,

Your faithful ones,

from every age,
fall on their faces,

in worship, in thanksgiving, in awe,
singing the victory that is already Yours:

“The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdom of our Lord

and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.”

And we join their song

from our own small corners of creation.

God, You reign,

not by force but by love,
not by fear but by hope,

not by control but by faith.

You’re in galaxies

and in living rooms,
in sanctuaries

and in souls,

everywhere

all at once,

above all, in all, and through all things.

Every act of love is an amen to Your throne.
Let gratitude be our anthem,

and love be our sign

that we are

Your children, living proof

Your Kingdom of Love reigns

forever and ever,

Amen.

Nov 13: ThursdayNov 13: “twenty-four elders…fell on their faces and worshiped God” (Rev. 11:16)

1️⃣ Identity

Father,
You show us what love looks like—
from generation
to generation
to generation.

You never stop weaving redemption
through the ordinary lives of Your children,
because we are Yours,
and we are cherished.

Even in famine and in loss,
Your love keeps finding a way.

Naomi left Bethlehem when
fields were bare,
her stomach ached,
and her heart did too.

She thought she was leaving emptiness behind,
but death and grief met her on foreign soil.

Still, You were there.

Her husband and sons were gone;
two young widows remained—
bound to her by love, not obligation.

And even in her grief,
Naomi still loved them deeply.

She released them to return home,
blessing them to begin again.

But Ruth couldn’t return to what once was.
Through Naomi’s son, she had stepped into a love story bigger than her own.

She’d grown up among gods who demanded sacrifice,
but this God—Naomi’s God—gave love freely.

Through her husband’s sacrifice,
she saw covenant—
a love that stayed when others left,
that forgave when others withdrew.

It awakened something in her:
a longing to belong to that kind of love forever.

Ruth stayed, not for comfort, but for covenant.

She chose to imitate her elder,
to learn what love looked like in faith.

Where Naomi went, Ruth would follow.
Where Naomi trusted, Ruth would learn to trust.

Naomi, once bitter, now became a guide.
Her sorrow turned to wisdom.
Love multiplied,
and in their staying, You began to restore.

This is how Your kingdom moves, Lord—
through ordinary people
who keep answering love with love.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord,
I know what it feels like

to stand at a crossroads,
to want to turn back toward what’s familiar,
even when You’re calling me forward.

Like Ruth, I’ve had moments
where loyalty came with a cost,
and faith looked like staying when its hard.

I confess, sometimes I run
when waiting would reveal Your goodness.

I search for comfort
when covenant is what You’re offering.

But You are patient with me.

You send people whose lives
teach me what love really looks like—
Naomis who guide with wisdom,
Ruths who cling through hardship,
elders whose worship sounds like trust.

Through them, You keep whispering,
“This is how My Kingdom comes—
not through power,
but through presence.”

3️⃣ Formation

Teach me, Father,
to stay

when it’s easier to go.

To love

when I feel spent.

To trust

when the harvest is still unseen.

Shape my home into a small Bethlehem,
a place where faith survives famine
and gratitude grows from the soil of grace.

Help me Lord,

to pass on this kind of faith,
not as a list of lessons,
but as a lived example.

May those who follow after me
see in my life for
what Ruth once saw in Naomi:
Love.

4️⃣ Exaltation

You are

the God who restores,
the Father who redeems through families,
the Lord whose love never fails.

The elders in heaven

fall on their faces,
and here on earth

we do the same.

We bow,

not out of fear,

but gratitude,
for every act of love
that reveals Your heart.

Thank You for showing us
that worship

isn’t only sung from thrones,
but lived out

in fields,

in kitchens,
in shared burdens,

open hands,
and stories that outlast our own.

From generation to generation,
You are faithful,
and Your mercy never ends.

Amen.

Nov 14: FridayNov 14: “We give thanks to You, Lord God Almighty.” (Rev. 11:17)

1️⃣ Identity

Father,
You are the One who loves Your children through their choices.

Thank You for never leaving me,
regardless of my choices,
even when I stayed close in body,
but far in heart.

I remember the seasons when I did everything right.
I obeyed,
I performed,
I followed every rule—
and underneath, I was angry.

I was angry
that grace came so easily to others
while I was breaking myself to earn
what was already mine.

I watched son after son

stumble home to celebration—

every time,

every sin,

forgiven.

And something in me resented the party.

I said I loved You,
but I wanted You to love me more for my effort.

I wanted to be noticed for staying.

But You noticed them.

Over and over, You forgave.
Over and over, You invited me in.
Over and over, I refused.

Each refusal pulled me further—
further from the house,
further from the light,
further from the music.

Until one day,
I found myself standing in the mud,
in the dark,
in the silence.

No laughter.
No light.
No love.

2️⃣ Reflection

I became the prodigal son I once resented.

Lord, I know You forgave everyone else,
but I was different.
I didn’t deserve Your grace.

I have lived in Your house my whole life
and never knew Your love.

Now I’m here—
in the mud, hungry, alone—
too far from home, I think,
too ashamed to return.

You’ll never forgive me;
I don’t deserve it.

And then it hits me—

the grace I once resented
is the only thing that can reach me now.

3️⃣ Formation

Wow, Lord—Your grace is abounding.

Just when I think I’ve outgrown it,
I find I need it all the more.

Humble my heart

to love Your children the way You do—
without hierarchy or hesitation.

Humble my soul
to receive the same mercy
I’ve denied myself.

Humble my life
to love You
without bargaining or comparison.

Teach me to come inside the house again—
to celebrate mercy instead of measuring it.

Let my gratitude grow louder than my guilt.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Father, I give You thanks.
You meet me when I’m proud
and when I’m broken.

You welcome me—
whether I’m coming in from the field
or crawling out of the far country.

Your goodness reigns
over rebellion and religion,
over striving and surrender.

Thank You for being the Father
who runs to the undeserving
and reasons with the ungrateful.

You don’t choose between us—
You redeem us both.

So I give You thanks
for mercy that waits,
for love that lasts,

for a Kingdom that sounds like home—
with music, laughter, light,
and a Father’s joy
over every returning child.

Amen.

“Always be filled with joy in the Lord. I will say it again. Be filled with joy. Let everyone see that you are gentle and kind. The Lord is coming soon.Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have. And because you belong to Christ Jesus, God’s peace will stand guard over all your thoughts and feelings. His peace can do this far better than our human minds.” Philippians 4:4-7 ERV

Facts about worry

Worry strangles your mind, joy, and peace
Worry makes us selfish
Worry and gratitude cannot co-exist

“Jesus said to his followers, “So I tell you, don’t worry about the things you need to live—what you will eat or what you will wear. Life is more important than food, and the body is more important than what you put on it. Look at the birds. They don’t plant, harvest, or save food in houses or barns, but God feeds them. And you are worth much more than crows. None of you can add any time to your life by worrying about it. And if you can’t do the little things, why worry about the big things? “Think about how the wildflowers grow. They don’t work or make clothes for themselves. But I tell you that even Solomon, the great and rich king, was not dressed as beautifully as one of these flowers. If God makes what grows in the field so beautiful, what do you think he will do for you? That’s just grass—one day it’s alive, and the next day someone throws it into a fire. But God cares enough to make it beautiful. Surely he will do much more for you. Your faith is so small! “So don’t always think about what you will eat or what you will drink. Don’t worry about it. That’s what all those people who don’t know God are always thinking about. But your Father knows that you need these things. What you should be thinking about is God’s kingdom. Then he will give you all these other things you need.” Luke 12:22-31 ERV

How does gratitude overcome worry?

Gratitude assumes God will provide (Luke 12:22-24, 27-30)
Gratitude reminds us that worry is a waste of time (Luke 12:25-26)
Gratitude teaches us to live day by day (Matthew 5:11)
Gratitude tells us to trust God’s promises

“For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 NLT

Gratitude keeps our priorities straight (Luke 12:31)

How do I let God and gratitude shape my heart so that I will not worry as much?

I will set my heart and mind on the Lord daily

“I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure.” Psalm 16:7-9 NIV

I will think upon the right things

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9 NIV

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Revealing the Father’s Heart: A Prayer Guide

WEEK 1:

Nov 3: Monday:

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” Matthew 6:25 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

When my cupboard is full, it’s easy to sing praise; but when my wallet is thin, the aisles lose their comfort.

I start counting the jars, the cans, the bags, and wonder if it will last.

Then I hear Your voice: “My child, come to the table. I am preparing a feast. I have everything you need.”

From the wilderness to the pantry, the miracle was never the food— it was Your faithfulness.

So yes, Lord— I will be faithful.

2️⃣ Reflection

Jesus, I confess— I worry You won’t come through.

I’ve stood before empty cupboards, held the last scoop of flour, the final drop of oil, and felt the despair in my soul.

Like the widow of Zarephath, I measure small portions and fear they will fail.

Still, You whisper, “Trust Me.”

As a child coming home from school, often there was dinner on the stove and a cookie jar screaming my name; I was always asked to wait.

And each day, the question insisted, “Do I take, or do I obey?”

Lord, that cookie jar is still tempting, and my stomach is still growling.

Like Adam and Eve, I face the choice— to take what looks good or obey my Father and wait.

So yes, Lord, I will be patient.

3️⃣ Formation

Father, waiting is the classroom where You teach trust.

You don’t rush me; You invite me.

You show me that love and control can’t coexist— only one can lead.

When fear says, “What if He doesn’t come through?” You remind me of every time You already have.

You are the same God who sent manna in the desert and flour to the widow’s jar.

You are not stingy— You are steady.

Form my heart to see delay as devotion, not distance. Form my reflex

to rest before I react. Form my faith to believe You are always good— even when I can’t see how.

So yes, Lord, I will be still.

4️⃣ Exaltation

I praise You as the God who never lets the jar run dry.

From the first garden to my own kitchen, You called me to trust the Giver more than the gift.

You are my portion, my daily bread, my endless supply.

All creation depends on You, and still You delight to feed me.

Anyone can say, “God provides.” Gratitude proves we believe it.

To thank God before the miracle is faith in action— the truest form of praise.

So yes, Lord, I will praise You, forever and ever. Amen.

Nov 4: Tuesday:

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Matthew 6:26 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

Father, I remember the day we found out we were expecting.

I imagined eyes—maybe blue, maybe brown. A heartbeat beneath my own. Love arrived before the baby did.

My thoughts turned to You, Lord. We’re made in Your image—each one of us. Including me.

You formed me with Your own hands and called me very good— the crown of creation.

You know every hair on my head, every heartbeat, every freckle and every dimple.

You shaped me on purpose; no one else is quite like me.

I may look imperfect by the world’s standards, but I am perfectly Yours.

You love me as I am, as I was, and as I will be.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord, You know me too well to hide.

I say my differences are beautiful— yet You see me linger too long in the mirror, step off the scale disappointed, and change my outfit again and again.

Why do I call myself Your masterpiece and still wish You’d painted me differently?

If I were a little taller, or thinner, a little stronger, or smarter— would I really be better off?

Like Israel grumbling in the wilderness, I forget the miracle of being chosen.

You never asked me to earn beauty or worth— You declared it over me.

And yet, I still forget.

Teach me to see what You see when You look at me— Your child, already enough.

Help me confess what lurks beneath comparison: a hunger to be seen.

Feed that hunger with truth. Quiet the voice that calls me “less,” and let me hear the one that calls me “Mine.”

3️⃣ Formation

Father, when I look at my children, I understand Your sacrifice.

From the first heartbeat, the first cry— love was already there. You were already there.

You loved me first— and that’s how I learned to love at all.

I love them as You love me, although Your love reaches farther than mine ever could.

Who am I to question the goodness of Your creation when I look in the mirror, in the cupboard, or in my heart?

Help me remember, Lord— You made Your children intentionally. In Your image. Fully known, and fully loved by You.

4️⃣ Exaltation

Jesus, lift my eyes to see the beauty in all You’ve made.

Your image lives in everyone I meet— the beggar, the neighbor, the child.

You carried the cross to prove, once and for all, that we are worth everything to You.

Your command remains the same: to love each other as You have loved us.

All creation depends on You,

and still You delight in feeding me.

Since I am Your beloved child,

teach me

to assume Your goodness,

to trust

that provision is already secured

because of Your love.

Silence me questioning Your goodness.

Remind me

I am far more than cared for,

I am cherished.

Let my life be a living thank You,

an offering into Your hands.

Use me

for Your kingdom’s glory,

Lord, I give my life to You.

I was, am, and always will be, Yours.

Amen.

Nov 5: Wednesday:

“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” Matthew 6:27 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You know the value of time.

You are the beginning and the end— the Alpha and the Omega. All of history hangs on Your timeline. We mark our calendars by the moment You entered our world.

You created time not to control me, but to teach me to remember Your grace, live in Your mercy, and rest in Your faithfulness.

You are good, Lord. You remind me there’s enough time to do everything You’ve called me to do.

Your yoke is easy; Your burden light.

I don’t need to worry for a single moment, because You are not bound by time. Time belongs to You.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord, I admit— I often treat time like it belongs to me.

I hurry, I worry, and I fill every hour with noise. Then I collapse, wondering where the day went.

You tell me not to waste energy on what I can’t control— but I still do.

I still plan and prepare, pursue and perform, when all You’re asking me to do is praise.

I remember the story of Martha and Mary— two sisters, one serving, one sitting.

Martha bustled around the house, anxious to prepare the meal; Mary simply sat at Your feet, listening.

I feel Martha’s hurry in my own heart, Lord— the constant motion, the need to manage.

But I long for Mary’s peace, that quiet trust that chooses presence over perfection.

And when You whisper, “Tomorrow will worry about itself,” I want to believe it deep in my bones.

3️⃣ Formation

Father, help me treat time not as a threat, but as a teacher.

Through each sunrise and sunset, You’re teaching me the rhythm of trust— how to work from rest, not for it.

Form me to pause long enough to hear Your heartbeat in my schedule. To let prayer interrupt productivity. To remember that eternity isn’t waiting— it’s already begun in You.

Slow my striving, Lord, until peace becomes my natural pace. Let the hours I surrender become the hours most alive.

4️⃣ Exaltation

You are the God who holds every hour in Your hands.

The moments, the seasons, the centuries— they all belong to You.

You waste nothing, and You rush nothing. You weave every moment into a beautiful tapestry of love.

Thank You, Lord, for Your grace— for the times I forget that You are my God, my Provider.

You don’t scold me, Lord; You guide me to trust.

You’re a Father who lets me learn what love looks like in real time.

Amen.

Nov 6: Thursday

“ If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? Matthew 6:30 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

Lord, I wish trust came easily for me.

You stretch out Your hand, and I hesitate.

Like someone hanging from a cliff, I weigh the risk— what if I let go and You don’t catch me?

I know the cliff isn’t safety, but it feels solid. I know Your hand is love, but it feels uncertain.

You call me daughter, but I still reach for control— to make sure there’s enough, to prove I belong.

2️⃣ Reflection

I remember what shaped that fear.

“Don’t wake Dad, don’t bother Dad,” we’d whisper after his long days at two jobs.

Somewhere along the way, that whisper became theology— You were busy with bigger things.

So I learned self-sufficiency dressed as strength.

I prayed polite prayers that didn’t require You to show up. When bills stacked

or dreams fell apart, I told myself, “Handle it. God helps those who help themselves.”

But lilies don’t live that way. And birds don’t budget anxiety.

They trust— and they thrive.

You’ve proven Yourself faithful again and again, yet I still flinch when storms roll in.

Why is it easier to believe You’ll feed the sparrow than to believe You’ll feed me?

3️⃣ Formation

Father, teach me to live inside Your promise: seek first Your kingdom, and let You handle the rest.

When fear tightens its grip, remind me that faith isn’t a feeling— it’s resting in the knowledge of a God who is infinitely good.

When I doubt Your attention, point to the lilies and the trees. When I fear being forgotten, point to the cross.

When I start spinning, still me long enough to hear Your voice again.

You turn everything toward good. You hold the timeline I can’t see.

Shape my heart until trust becomes the rhythm of my breathing— unt

4️⃣ Exaltation

Thank You, Father.

You are not a distant Provider; You are near.

You dress the world in wonder and cover me with grace.

Every petal preaches Your faithfulness; every heartbeat proves Your care.

So I praise You— not because I never worry, but because even in my worry, You remain.

You are patient with my small faith, present in my slow progress, and proud to call me Yours.

I will open my hands, Lord, and reach for Yours.

And when I cannot trust You perfectly yet, I will trust that You are still holding me.

Amen.

Nov 7: Friday

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 (NIV)

1️⃣ Identity

Father, You are the keeper of this house and the giver of every dawn.

You call each day good before I ever step into it.

You invite me to gather what You’ve provided— not to hoard what hasn’t yet come.

You hold tomorrow like a folded blanket, ready when it’s needed— but tonight, You cover me with peace.

You promise strength for today, not storage for tomorrow.

2️⃣ Reflection

Lord, I admit, I run ahead of You.

I plan the week, the month, and the what-if scenarios.

I replay conversations and pre-live crises that may never happen.

It feels productive— but it’s just laundry that never needed washing.

You show me how worry steals from the present. It rewashes what’s already clean and leaves me tired before the day even begins.

I want to live like the Proverbs 31 woman, who laughs at the days to come— not because she’s naïve, but because she knows her household rests in Your hands.

Forgive me, Father, for wasting today’s grace on tomorrow’s guesses.

3️⃣ Formation

Teach me the rhythm of Your house, Lord— one basket, one day, one breath at a time.

Let me sort what truly belongs to today and leave the rest in Your keeping.

When my thoughts crowd the hallway, quiet them with Your voice:

“This day is Mine. This child is Mine. This moment is enough.”

Form in me a heart that trusts You with the unknown, that works faithfully with what’s in front of me, and that believes You’ll still be good when the sun rises again.

Help me open this day with gratitude and lay it gently in Your hands.

4️⃣ Exaltation

You are faithful in the morning and kind at night.

You rule the hours with wisdom and fill them with mercy.

Tomorrow will bring its own work— but You will be there first.

So I praise You for the peace that ends a long week— for the roof of Your presence, the warmth of Your love, and the steady rhythm of Your care.

I can rest because You don’t.

I will stop running ahead and sit with You here, today.

Amen

An Invitation to a Life of Generosity

“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Matthew 6:22-24 NIV

“Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?”Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest.He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’“Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain.And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’“But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’“This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes…And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it.For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them.But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:13-22, 29-34 NIV

How can I live a generous life?

Understand the foundation of generosity

“The Israelites did as they were told; some gathered much, some little.And when they measured it by the omer, the one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little. Everyone had gathered just as much as they needed.” Exodus 16: 17-18 NIV

“When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest.Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 19:9,10 NIV

Expose the enemy of generosity

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:15

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” 1 Timothy 6:10 NIV

Pursue joy through generosity

“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.” Acts 4:32-35 NIV

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-19 NIV

“Now He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt:” Luke 18:9 NASB

Two people

“Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.” Luke 18:10 NASB

Two prayers

“The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.” Luke 18:11-12 NASB 95

“But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’ Luke 18:14 NASB 95

Two outcomes

I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other one; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 18:14 NASB

Luke 10:1-37

The Great Commandment

“Hear, Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one! And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength… you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the Lord.” Deuteronomy 6:4-5, Leviticus 19:18 NASB

Matthew 22:34-40

Mark 12:29-34

Luke 10:25-27

The Great Commandment expels darkness (Luke 10:1-24)
The Great Commandment has no loopholes (Luke 10:25-29)
The Great Commandment has no limits (Luke 10:30-37)

“Peter said to him, “We left everything we had and followed you. So what will we have?” Jesus said to them, “When the time of the new world comes, the Son of Man will sit on his great and glorious throne. And I can promise that you who followed me will sit on twelve thrones, and you will judge the twelve tribes of Israel. Everyone who has left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, children, or farms to follow me will get much more than they left. And they will have eternal life. Many people who are first now will be last in the future. And many who are last now will be first in the future. “God’s kingdom is like a man who owned some land. One morning, the man went out very early to hire some people to work in his vineyard. He agreed to pay the workers one silver coin for working that day. Then he sent them into the vineyard to work. “About nine o’clock the man went to the marketplace and saw some other people standing there. They were doing nothing. So he said to them, ‘If you go and work in my field, I will pay you what your work is worth.’ So they went to work in the vineyard. “The man went out again about twelve o’clock and again at three o’clock. Both times he hired some others to work in his vineyard. About five o’clock the man went to the marketplace again. He saw some other people standing there. He asked them, ‘Why did you stand here all day doing nothing?’ “They said, ‘No one gave us a job.’ “The man said to them, ‘Then you can go and work in my vineyard.’ “At the end of the day, the owner of the field said to the boss of all the workers, ‘Call the workers and pay them all. Start by paying the last people I hired. Then pay all of them, ending with the ones I hired first.’ “The workers who were hired at five o’clock came to get their pay. Each worker got one silver coin. Then the workers who were hired first came to get their pay. They thought they would be paid more than the others. But each one of them also received one silver coin. When they got their silver coin, they complained to the man who owned the land. They said, ‘Those people were hired last and worked only one hour. But you paid them the same as us. And we worked hard all day in the hot sun.’ “But the man who owned the field said to one of them, ‘Friend, I am being fair with you. You agreed to work for one silver coin. Right? So take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same pay I gave you. I can do what I want with my own money. Why would you be jealous because I am generous?’ “So those who are last now will be first in the future. And those who are first now will be last in the future.” Matthew 19:27-30, 20:1-16 ERV

How do we enjoy the “unfair” grace of God?

Be glad God is gracious rather than fair
Be glad God is generous rather than fair
Be grateful for what you have

Luke 15:1-32

The Friend of sinners offends the religious

“All the tax collectors and sinners were approaching to listen to him. And the Pharisees and scribes were complaining, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1-2 CSB

The Friend of sinners seek the wandering

“So he told them this parable: “What man among you, who has a hundred sheep and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open field and go after the lost one until he finds it? When he has found it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders, and coming home, he calls his friends and neighbors together, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found my lost sheep!’ I tell you, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who don’t need repentance.” Luke 15:3-7 CSB

The Friend of sinners finds the lost

“Or what woman who has ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? When she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found the silver coin I lost!’ I tell you, in the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:8-10 CSB

The Friend of sinners embraces the broken

“He also said, “A man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate I have coming to me.’ So he distributed the assets to them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered together all he had and traveled to a distant country, where he squandered his estate in foolish living. After he had spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he had nothing. Then he went to work for one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. He longed to eat his fill from the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one would give him anything. When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food, and here I am dying of hunger! I’ll get up, go to my father, and say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired workers.”’ So he got up and went to his father. But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him. The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son.’“ But the father told his servants, ‘Quick! Bring out the best robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then bring the fattened calf and slaughter it, and let’s celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ So they began to celebrate. “Now his older son was in the field; as he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. So he summoned one of the servants, questioning what these things meant. ‘Your brother is here,’ he told him, ‘and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ “Then he became angry and didn’t want to go in. So his father came out and pleaded with him. But he replied to his father, ‘Look, I have been slaving many years for you, and I have never disobeyed your orders, yet you never gave me a goat so that I could celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your assets with prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.’ “‘Son,’ he said to him, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’” Luke 15:11-32 CSB

“But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his trickery, your minds will be led astray from sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if one comes and preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted, this you tolerate very well!… For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds.” 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, 13-14 NASB

Be aware of false Christians

“Jesus presented another parable to them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and left. And when the wheat sprouted and produced grain, then the weeds also became evident. And the slaves of the landowner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?’ And he said to them, ‘An enemy has done this!’ The slaves said to him, ‘Do you want us, then, to go and gather them up?’ But he said, ‘No; while you are gathering up the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. Allow both to grow together until the harvest; and at the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather up the weeds and bind them in bundles to burn them; but gather the wheat into my barn… Then He left the crowds and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” And He said, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man, and the field is the world; and as for the good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; and the weeds are the sons of the evil one; and the enemy who sowed them is the devil, and the harvest is the end of the age; and the reapers are angels. So just as the weeds are gathered up and burned with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all stumbling blocks, and those who commit lawlessness, and they will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine forth like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. The one who has ears, let him hear.” Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 NASB

Be aware of false identities

“He presented another parable to them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a person took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all the other seeds, but when it is fully grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the sky come and nest in its branches.” Matthew 13:31-32 NASB

Be aware of false teaching

“He told them still another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.” Matthew 13:33 NIV

“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14 NASB

What Is The Gospel Of The Kingdom?

It is Jesus’ good news about

Repentance

“Now after John was taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:14-15 NASB

Redemption

“For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:14-15 NASB

Restoration

Both now

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NASB

And not yet

“Repent, therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord and that he may send the Messiah appointed for you, that is, Jesus, who must remain in heaven until the time of universal restoration that God announced long ago through his holy prophets.” Acts 3:19-21 NRSV

“On that day Jesus had gone out of the house and was sitting by the sea. And large crowds gathered to Him, so He got into a boat and sat down, and the whole crowd was standing on the beach. And He told them many things in parables, saying, “Behold, the sower went out to sow; and as he sowed, some seeds fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate them up. Others fell on the rocky places, where they did not have much soil; and they sprang up immediately, because they had no depth of soil. But after the sun rose, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Others fell among the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked them out. But others fell on the good soil and yielded a crop, some a hundred, some sixty, and some thirty times as much. The one who has ears, let him hear…“Listen then to the parable of the sower. When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the one sown with seed beside the road. The one sown with seed on the rocky places, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution occurs because of the word, immediately he falls away. And the one sown with seed among the thorns, this is the one who hears the word, and the anxiety of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. But the one sown with seed on the good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces, some a hundred, some sixty, and some thirty times as much.”” Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 NASB

Soil #1 The Path

The Problem: Misplaced purpose

The Solution: Soil preparation

Soil #2 The Rocky Places

The Problem: Misplaced faith

The Solution: Rock removal

Soil #3 The Thorny Places

The Problem: Misplaced hope

The Solution: Weed pulling

Soil #4 Good soil

The ingredients that make good soil are

Repentance

Repentance aligns our hearts and lives to His kingdom

Trust

Trust gives my allegiance to the King and His Kingdom

“But the one sown with seed on the good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it…”

What are the parables?

“And the disciples came up and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?” And Jesus answered them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted. For whoever has, to him more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has shall be taken away from him. Therefore I speak to them in parables; because while seeing they do not see, and while hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. And in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled, which says, ‘You shall keep on listening, but shall not understand; And you shall keep on looking, but shall not perceive; For the heart of this people has become dull, With their ears they scarcely hear, And they have closed their eyes, Otherwise they might see with their eyes, Hear with their ears, Understand with their heart, and return,
And I would heal them.’ But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. For truly I say to you that many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.” Matthew 13:10-17 NASB

Parables are short stories that illustrate a deeper spiritual meaning
Parables captivate people’s attention
Parables expose the motives of people’s hearts
Parables show the surprising nature and arrival of God’s kingdom
Parables reveal the upside-down value system of the kingdom
Parables force people to make a decision about God’s kingdom

Why did Jesus teach in parables?

“All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables, and He did not speak anything to them without a parable. This was so that what was spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: “I will open My mouth in parables; I will proclaim things hidden since the foundation of the world.” Matthew 13:34-35 NASB

To conceal truth from those who do not want truth
To reveal truth to those who want truth

How should we read the parables?

Understand His audience
Understand the main characters in them
Understand what the parables meant for the original audience first

1 Corinthians 16

A Practical word

“Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem. If it seems advisable for me to go also, they will accompany me.” 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 NIV

A Personal word

“After I go through Macedonia, I will come to you—for I will be going through Macedonia. Perhaps I will stay with you for a while, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go. For I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me. When Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am. No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers. Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity.” 1 Corinthians 16:5-12 NIV

A Passionate word

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love. You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it. I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-18 NIV

A Prayerful word

“The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Prisca greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. All the brothers and sisters greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. The greeting is in my own hand—that of Paul. If anyone does not love the Lord, he is to be accursed. Maranatha! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” 1 Corinthians 16:19-24 NASB

Corinthians 15:35-58

“Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, so that through death He might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.” Hebrews 2:14-15 NASB

What takes the sting out of death?

Truth

“But someone will say, “How are the dead raised? And with what kind of body do they come?” You fool! That which you sow does not come to life unless it dies; and that which you sow, you do not sow the body which is to be, but a bare grain, perhaps of wheat or of something else. But God gives it a body just as He wished, and to each of the seeds a body of its own. All flesh is not the same flesh, but there is one flesh of mankind, another flesh of animals, another flesh of birds, and another of fish. There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is one, and the glory of the earthly is another. There is one glory of the sun, another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for star differs from star in glory.” 1 Corinthians 15:35-41 NASB

Knowledge

“So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. So also it is written: “The first man, Adam, became a living person.” The last Adam was a life-giving spirit. However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural; then the spiritual. The first man is from the earth, earthy; the second Man is from heaven. As is the earthy one, so also are those who are earthy; and as is the heavenly One, so also are those who are heavenly. Just as we have borne the image of the earthy, we will also bear the image of the heavenly.” 1 Corinthians 15:42-49 NASB

Understanding

“Now I say this, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable…”

“Behold, I am telling you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality.” 1 Corinthians 15:50-53 NASB

Confidence

“But when this perishable puts on the imperishable, and this mortal puts on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written: “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O Death, is your victory? Where, O Death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the Law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:54-56 NASB

Focus

“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NASB

1 Corinthians 15:12-34

“But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.” 1 Corinthians 15:12-18 NIV

Hold on to the hope of the resurrection because it is central to the gospel

“If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in turn: Christ, the first fruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him. Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. For he “has put everything under his feet.” Now when it says that “everything” has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ. When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all.” 1 Corinthians 15:19-28 NIV

Rely on the hope of the resurrection to shape how you think about eternity
We will have physical bodies and live on the physical earth

b. We will not be bored (Isaiah 65:17-18, 21-23)

c. All sin, death, and evil will be swallowed up (Isaiah 25: 6-8, Rev 21:)

“Now if there is no resurrection, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them? And as for us, why do we endanger ourselves every hour? I face death every day—yes, just as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our Lord. If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained? If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.” Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God—I say this to your shame.” 1 Corinthians 15: 29-34 NIV

Allow the hope of the resurrection to change how you live today
Stop sinning

b. Live like it matters for eternity

1 Corinthians 15:1-11

The Gospel Stance

“Now I want to make clear for you, brothers and sisters, the gospel I preached to you, which you received, on which you have taken your standand by which you are being saved, if you hold to the message I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 CSB

The Gospel explained

For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 CSB

The Gospel evidence

“and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. Then he appeared to over five hundred brothers and sisters at one time; most of them are still alive, but some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one born at the wrong time, he also appeared to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:5-8 CSB

The Gospel transforms

“For I am the least of the apostles, not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. Whether, then, it is I or they, so we proclaim and so you have believed.” 1 Corinthians 15:8-11 CSB

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost sinner Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:12-16 NASB

1 Corinthians 14

“ I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge—even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you—so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 1 Corinthians 1:4-7 ESV

When we gather the goal is edification

“But the one who prophesies speaks to people for edification, exhortation, and consolation. The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself; but the one who prophesies edifies the church. Now I wish that you all spoke in tongues, but rather that you would prophesy; and greater is the one who prophesies than the one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may receive edification… So you too, since you are eager to possess spiritual gifts, strive to excel for the edification of the church… What is the outcome then, brothers and sisters? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. All things are to be done for edification.” 1 Corinthians 14:3-5, 12, 26 NASB

When we gather there needs to be clarity Vs.6-25

3 Illustrations

*Musical instruments

“But now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I speak to you either by way of revelation, or of knowledge, or of prophecy, or of teaching? Yet even lifeless instruments, whether flute or harp, in producing a sound, if they do not produce a distinction in the tones, how will it be known what is played on the flute or on the harp?” 1 Corinthians 14:6-7 NASB

*The Call to battle

“For if the trumpet produces an indistinct sound, who will prepare himself for battle?” 1 Corinthians 14:8 NASB

*Speaking in different languages

“So you too, unless you produce intelligible speech by the tongue, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will just be talking to the air. There are, perhaps, a great many kinds of languages in the world, and none is incapable of meaning. So if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be unintelligible to the one who speaks, and the one who speaks will be unintelligible to me. So you too, since you are eager to possess spiritual gifts, strive to excel for the edification of the church.” 1 Corinthians 14:9-12 NASB

When we gather there needs to be order

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” 1 Corinthians 14:33 NIV

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” 1 Corinthians 14:39-40 NIV

1 Corinthians 13

Love is superior

“If I speak with the tongues of mankind and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and know all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. And if I give away all my possessions to charity, and if I surrender my body so that I may glory, but do not have love, it does me no good.” 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NASB

Love is a verb

“Love is patient, love is kind, it is not jealous; love does not brag, it is not arrogant. It does not act disgracefully, it does not seek its own benefit; it is not provoked, does not keep an account of a wrong suffered, it does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; it keeps every confidence, it believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NASB

Love is forever

“Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away with; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we know in part and prophesy in part; but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away with. When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I also have been fully known. But now faith, hope, and love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:8-13 NASB

(1 Corinthians 12)

“Now concerning spiritual gifts.” 1 Corinthians 12:1 NASB

There Is One God (Vs. 3-11)

Differing Gifts yet One Spirit

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.” 12:4

Manifestation Gifts

“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit,and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.” 1 Corinthians 12;8-10 NASB

Different kinds of service yet One Lord

There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.” 1 Corinthians 12:5

Ministry Gifts

“For just as we have many parts in one body and all the body’s parts do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually parts of one another. However, since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them properly: if prophecy, in proportion to one’s faith; if service, in the act of serving; or the one who teaches, in the act of teaching; or the one who exhorts, in the work of exhortation; the one who gives, with generosity; the one who is in leadership, with diligence; the one who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.” Romans 12:4-8 NASB

Maturing Gifts

“And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-13 NASB

Different kinds of effects yet One God

“…there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.” 1 Corinthians 12:6 ESV

There Is One Body (Vs. 12-31)

One body many parts

“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.” 1 Corinthians 12:12 ESV

“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27 ESV

One baptism many fillings

“For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:13 ESV

“Be filled with the Spirit…” Ephesians 5:18

One purpose one goal

“But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.” 1 Corinthians 12:31 ESV

(1Corinthians 11)

Hermeneutics: The art of interpreting Scripture

Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you. But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God.Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, but every wife who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven. For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head.For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. For man was not made from woman, but woman from manNeither was man created for woman, but woman for man. That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of woman; for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God. Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering. If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God.” 1 Corinthians 11:1-16 ESV

Scientific Discoveries

Shifts in Culture

Spiritual Discernment

Headship Vs.2-3, 7-10

“Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you. But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God… For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. For man was not made from woman, but woman from man.Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.”

Head coverings Vs. 4-6, 13-16

“Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, but every wife who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven. For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head…. Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering. If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God.”

Helpmates Vs. 11-12

“Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of woman; for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God

Holiness in gatherings Vs. 17-34

“But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part, or there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. When you come together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat. For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not.”

1 Corinthians 10

“Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life. Don’t let your mouth speak dishonestly, and don’t let your lips talk deviously. Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze straight ahead. Carefully consider the path for your feet, and all your ways will be established. Don’t turn to the right or to the left; keep your feet away from evil.” Proverbs 4:23-27 CSB

How To Keep Your Guard Up

Remember Christ is always enough

“Now I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud, all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and that rock was Christ.” 1 Corinthians 10:1-4 CSB

Remember sin has consequences

“Now these things took place as examples for us, so that we will not desire evil things as they did. Don’t become idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and got up to party.Let us not commit sexual immorality as some of them did, and in a single day twenty-three thousand people died. Let us not test Christ as some of them did and were destroyed by snakes. And don’t grumble as some of them did, and were killed by the destroyer. These things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our instruction, on whom the ends of the ages have come. So, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 CSB

Remember He can be trusted

“No temptation has come upon you except what is common to humanity. But God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 CSB

Remember to choose wisdom

“So then, my dear friends, flee from idolatry. I am speaking as to sensible people. Judge for yourselves what I am saying…Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything builds up. No one is to seek his own good, but the good of the other person. Eat everything that is sold in the meat market, without raising questions for the sake of conscience, since the earth is the Lord’s, and all that is in it. If any of the unbelievers invites you over and you want to go, eat everything that is set before you, without raising questions for the sake of conscience. But if someone says to you, “This is food from a sacrifice,” do not eat it, out of consideration for the one who told you, and for the sake of conscience. I do not mean your own conscience, but the other person’s. For why is my freedom judged by another person’s conscience? If I partake with thanksgiving, why am I criticized because of something for which I give thanks? So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or Greeks or the church of God, just as I also try to please everyone in everything, not seeking my own benefit, but the benefit of many, so that they may be saved.” 1 Corinthians 10:14,15, 25-33 CSB

Guest Speaker Lisa Steven

1 Corinthians 9

“Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 CSB

Paul the Apostle/Missionary

“Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord? If I am not an apostle to others, at least I am to you, because you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. My defense to those who examine me is this: Don’t we have the right to eat and drink? Don’t we have the right to be accompanied by a believing wife like the other apostles, the Lord’s brothers, and Cephas? Or do only Barnabas and I have no right to refrain from working? Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its fruit? Or who shepherds a flock and does not drink the milk from the flock? Am I saying this from a human perspective? Doesn’t the law also say the same thing? For it is written in the law of Moses, Do not muzzle an ox while it treads out grain. Is God really concerned about oxen? Isn’t he really saying it for our sake? Yes, this is written for our sake, because he who plows ought to plow in hope, and he who threshes should thresh in hope of sharing the crop. If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it too much if we reap material benefits from you? If others have this right to receive benefits from you, don’t we even more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right; instead, we endure everything so that we will not hinder the gospel of Christ. Don’t you know that those who perform the temple services eat the food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the offerings of the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should earn their living by the gospel. For my part I have used none of these rights, nor have I written these things that they may be applied in my case. For it would be better for me to die than for anyone to deprive me of my boast! For if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am compelled to preach—and woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! For if I do this willingly, I have a reward, but if unwillingly, I am entrusted with a commission. What then is my reward? To preach the gospel and offer it free of charge and not make full use of my rights in the gospel.” 1 Corinthians 9:1-18 CSB

Paul the Evangelist

“Although I am free from all and not anyone’s slave, I have made myself a slave to everyone, in order to win more people. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win Jews; to those under the law, like one under the law—though I myself am not under the law—to win those under the law. To those who are without the law, like one without the law—though I am not without God’s law but under the law of Christ—to win those without the law. To the weak I became weak, in order to win the weak. I have become all things to all people, so that I may by every possible means save some. Now I do all this because of the gospel, so that I may share in the blessings.” 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 CSB

Paul the Disciple

“Don’t you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way to win the prize. Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable crown. So I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 CSB

Discipleship requires:

Desire Vs. 24

Discipline Vs. 25

Direction Vs. 26

Devotion Vs. 27

“Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “we all have knowledge.” Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. If anyone thinks he knows anything, he does not yet know it as he ought to know it. But if anyone loves God, he is known by him. About eating food sacrificed to idols, then, we know that “an idol is nothing in the world,” and that “there is no God but one.” For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth—as there are many “gods” and many “lords”— yet for us there is one God, the Father. All things are from him, and we exist for him. And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ. All things are through him, and we exist through him. However, not everyone has this knowledge. Some have been so used to idolatry up until now that when they eat food sacrificed to an idol, their conscience, being weak, is defiled. Food will not bring us close to God. We are not worse off if we don’t eat, and we are not better if we do eat. But be careful that this right of yours in no way becomes a stumbling block to the weak. For if someone sees you, the one who has knowledge, dining in an idol’s temple, won’t his weak conscience be encouraged to eat food offered to idols? So the weak person, the brother or sister for whom Christ died, is ruined by your knowledge. Now when you sin like this against brothers and sisters and wound their weak conscience, you are sinning against Christ. Therefore, if food causes my brother or sister to fall, I will never again eat meat, so that I won’t cause my brother or sister to fall.” 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 CSB

In Matters Of Conscience And Christian Liberty

Be careful to not be cavalier about it Vs. 1-3
Be confident in the true God (Vs.5-6)
Be cautious to not be careless with it (Vs. 7-13)

*Distinguish between true holiness and cultural holiness

*Guard your conscience and guard your fellow believer’s conscience

Can I do this in faith and a clear conscience? (Romans 14:23)
Can I do this or receive this to the glory of God? (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Can I do this or receive this while giving thanks to God? (1 Timothy 4:4)
Can I do this and not violate the law of love? (Matthew 22:37-40)
Should I keep my freedom between myself and God? (Romans 14:22)
Am I trying to justify my position by taking scripture out of context? (Acts 20:27)

1 Corinthians 7

Marriage is a covenant of companionship

“Now concerning the things about which you wrote, it is good for a man not to touch a woman. But because of sexual immoralities, each man is to have his own wife, and each woman is to have her own husband. The husband must fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise the wife also to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does; and likewise the husband also does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time so that you may devote yourselves to prayer, and come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. But this I say by way of concession, not of command. Yet I wish that all men were even as I myself am. However, each has his own gift from God, one in this way, and another in that.” 1 Corinthians 7:1-7 NASB

Marriage is a covenant of commitment

“But to the married I give instructions, not I, but the Lord, that the wife is not to leave (divorce) her husband (but if she does leave, she must remain unmarried, or else be reconciled to her husband), and that the husband is not to divorce his wife. But to the rest I say, not the Lord, that if any brother has an unbelieving wife, and she consents to live with him, he must not divorce her. And if any woman has an unbelieving husband, and he consents to live with her, she must not divorce her husband. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband; for otherwise your children are unclean, but now they are holy. Yet if the unbelieving one is leaving, let him leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us in peace. For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?” 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 NASB

Marriage is a challenging covenant

“Yet such people as yourselves will have trouble in this life, and I am trying to spare you…But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided. The woman who is unmarried, and the virgin, is concerned about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and spirit; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how she may please her husband. I say this for your own benefit, not to put a restraint on you, but to promote what is appropriate and to secure undistracted devotion to the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 7:28, 32-35 NASB

Singleness can be a calling and or a choice

“But I say to the unmarried and to widows that it is good for them if they remain even as I. But if they do not have self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” 1 Corinthians 7:8-9 NASB

“A wife is bound as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord. But in my opinion she is happier if she remains as she is; and I think that I also have the Spirit of God.” 1 Corinthians 7:39-40 NASB

Go and sin no more…

Honor God by following His plan

“Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” Matthew 19:4-6 ESV

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.” Proverbs 3:5-7 ESV

“Marriage should be honored by everyone. And every marriage should be kept pure between husband and wife. God will judge guilty those who commit sexual sins and adultery.” Hebrews 13:4 ERV

Honor your spouse, future spouse, and fellow believer by walking in love

“Additionally then, brothers and sisters, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus, that as you have received instruction from us on how you should live and please God—as you are doing—do this even more. For you know what commands we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is God’s will, your sanctification: that you keep away from sexual immorality, that each of you knows how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not with lustful passions, like the Gentiles, who don’t know God. This means one must not transgress against and take advantage of a brother or sister in this manner, because the Lord is an avenger of all these offenses, as we also previously told and warned you. For God has not called us to impurity but to live in holiness. Consequently, anyone who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 CSB

Honor your fellow believer by pursuing peace

“If any of you has a dispute against another, how dare you take it to court before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? Or don’t you know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the trivial cases? Don’t you know that we will judge angels—how much more matters of this life? So if you have such matters, do you appoint as your judges those who have no standing in the church? I say this to your shame! Can it be that there is not one wise person among you who is able to arbitrate between fellow believers? Instead, brother goes to court against brother, and that before unbelievers! As it is, to have legal disputes against one another is already a defeat for you. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? Instead, you yourselves do wrong and cheat—and you do this to brothers and sisters!” 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 CSB

Honor the gospel by living in the New Creation

“Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality,1or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 NLT

Honor the temple of God by fleeing sexual immorality

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything. “Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food”—and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, “The two will become one flesh.” But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 ESV

Who is the Slandering Snake? (Genesis 3)

The spirit behind the slandering snake

“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (GK. Diabolous)” Matthew 4:1 NASB

“in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.” 2 Corinthians 2:11 NIV

The slandering snake’s schemes are to deceive (2 Corinthians 11:3), discourage (John 8:44), and divide its prey.

“Wives, likewise, should be worthy of respect, not slanderers (GK Diabolous), self-controlled, faithful in everything.” 1 Timothy 3:11 CSB

What to do when you get bit by this type of snake

Remember we represent Jesus in this world

“Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.” 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 NASB 95

“…we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20 NASB

Remember we have a judge who rightly judges

“But to me it is an insignificant matter that I would be examined by you, or by any human [court; in fact, I do not even examine myself. For I am not aware of anything against myself; however I am not vindicated by this, but the one who examines me is the Lord. Therefore do not go on passing judgment before [the time, but wait until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of human hearts; and then praise will come to each person from God. Now these things, brothers and sisters, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos on your account, so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other. For who considers you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? You are already filled, you have already become rich, you have become kings without us; and indeed, I wish that you had become kings so that we also might reign with you! For I think, God has exhibited us, the apostles, last of all as men condemned to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to mankind. We are fools on account of Christ, but you are prudent in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are without honor!” 1 Corinthians 4:3-10 NASB

Remember to respond like Jesus

“Up to this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed and roughly treated and homeless; and we labor, working with our own hands; when we are verbally abused, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we reply as friends; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now. I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I urge you, be imitators of me.” 1 Corinthians 4:11-16 NASB

“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” 1 Peter 2:21-23 NIV

Remember to rely on kingdom power

“For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. Now some have become arrogant, as though I were not coming to you. But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall find out, not the words of those who are arrogant, but their power. For the kingdom of God is not in words, but in power. What do you desire? That I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness?” 1 Corinthians 4:17-21 NASB

We The Beautiful Mess Become Our Best When

We believe that He has moved us from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light

“For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14 NASB

“I always thank my God for you because of the grace that he has given you through Christ Jesus. In him you have been blessed in every way. You have been blessed in all your speaking and all your knowledge. This proves that what we told you about Christ is true. Now you have every gift from God while you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to come again. He will keep you strong until the end so that on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ comes, you will be free from all blame. God is faithful. He is the one who has chosen you to share life with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 ERV

“His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. By these he has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them you may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world because of evil desire.” 2 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

We embrace that He is moving us from messy to maturing

“And I, brothers and sisters, could not speak to you as spiritual people, but only as fleshly, as to infants in Christ. I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to consume it. But even now you are not yet able, for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like ordinary people? For when one person says, “I am with Paul,” and another, “I am with Apollos,” are you not ordinary people?” 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 NASB

We can evaluate our maturity by our spiritual diet

Milk (1 Peter 2:2)

Bread (Matthew 4:4)

Meat (Hebrews 5:11-14)

We can evaluate our maturity by our practice of love and unity

We cooperate with Him in moving us from an unfruitful life to a fruitful life

“What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one. I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers, God’s field…” 1 Corinthians 3:5-9a NASB

We build our lives on the right foundation

“You are God’s building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work. If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

“Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are. Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, “He is the one who catches the wise in their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are useless.” So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things belong to you, and you belong to Christ; and Christ belongs to God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9b-23 NASB 95

“When I came to you, brothers and sisters, announcing the mystery of God to you, I did not come with brilliance of speech or wisdom. I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not be based on human wisdom but on God’s power. We do, however, speak a wisdom among the mature, but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a mystery, a wisdom God predestined before the ages for our glory. None of the rulers of this age knew this wisdom, because if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, What no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has conceived—God has prepared these things for those who love him. Now God has revealed these things to us by the Spirit, since the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except his spirit within him? In the same way, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who comes from God, so that we may understand what has been freely given to us by God. We also speak these things, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual things to spiritual people. But the person without the Spirit does not receive what comes from God’s Spirit, because it is foolishness to him; he is not able to understand it since it is evaluated spiritually. The spiritual person, however, can evaluate everything, and yet he himself cannot be evaluated by anyone. For who has known the Lord’s mind, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 CSB

How to lose your mind

I need my mind reprogrammed (Vs. 6-13)

“But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised.” 1 Corinthians 2:14 NASB 95

“Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.” Ephesians 4:17-19 ESV

“But we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:16

I need a daily renewal of my mind (Vs. 14-16)

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 ESV

The spiritual person, however, can evaluate everything, and yet he himself cannot be evaluated by anyone. For who has known the Lord’s mind, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 CSB

But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:20-24 ESV

I need to do mind Renewing Updates

I need to do mind Renewing Upgrades

I need to do mind Renewing Virus scans

“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written,“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,And the cleverness of the clever I will set aside. ”Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, so that no man may boast before God. But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, so that, just as it is written, “Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 NASB 95

The Gospel Contains An

Upside down power Vs.18
Upside down wisdom Vs.19-25
Upside down righteousness Vs. 26-31

“ Thus says the Lord, “Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches;but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the Lord.” Jeremiah 9:23-24 NASB 95

“Paul, called as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,

To the church of God which is in Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling, with all who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge, just as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you, so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you eagerly await the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment. For I have been informed concerning you, my brothers and sisters, by Chloe’s people, that there are quarrels among you. Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, “I am with Paul,” or “I am with Apollos,” or “I am with Cephas,” or “I am with Christ.” Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I am thankful that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that no one would say you were baptized in my name! But I did baptize the household of Stephanas also; beyond that, I do not know if I baptized anyone else. For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made of no effect.” 1 Corinthians 1:1-17 NASB

The Church of God is people not a building or institution

“Paul, called as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes, To the church of God which is in Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling, with all who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:” 1 Corinthians 1:1-2 CSB

The Church of God is a portrait of grace

“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge, just as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you, so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you eagerly await the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1Corinthians 1:3-9 CSB

The Church of God is a work in progress

“Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 1 Corinthians 1:10 CSB

The Church of God has One Head

“For I have been informed concerning you, my brothers and sisters, by Chloe’s people, that there are quarrels among you. Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, “I am with Paul,” or “I am with Apollos,” or “I am with Cephas,” or “I am with Christ.” Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I am thankful that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that no one would say you were baptized in my name! But I did baptize the household of Stephanas also; beyond that, I do not know if I baptized anyone else. For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made of no effect.” 1 Corinthians 1:11-17 CSB

We believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit, Christ’s holy church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.
Amen.

“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, and I made plans like a child. When I became a man, I stopped those childish ways. It is the same with us. Now we see God as if we are looking at a reflection in a mirror. But then, in the future, we will see him right before our eyes. Now I know only a part, but at that time I will know fully, as God has known me.” 1 Corinthians 13:11-12 ERV

I need evidence for my mind

“Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came early to the tomb, while it was still dark, and saw the stone already removed from the tomb. So she ran and came to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we do not know where they have put Him.” So Peter and the other disciple left, and they were going to the tomb. The two were running together; and the other disciple ran ahead, faster than Peter, and came to the tomb first; and he stooped to look in, and saw the linen wrappings lying there; however he did not go in. So Simon Peter also came, following him, and he entered the tomb; and he looked at the linen wrappings lying there, and the face-cloth which had been on His head, not lying with the linen wrappings but folded up in a place by itself. So the other disciple who had first come to the tomb also entered then, and he saw and believed.” John 20:1-8 NASB

I need answers for my heart

“Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came early to the tomb, while it was still dark, and saw the stone already removed from the tomb…But Mary was standing outside the tomb, weeping; so as she wept, she stooped to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had been lying. And they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they put Him.” When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and yet she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Thinking that He was the gardener, she said to Him, “Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you put Him, and I will take Him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (which means, Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’”Mary Magdalene came and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and that He had said these things to her.” John 20:1, 11-18

I need something personal for my soul

“Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Thinking that He was the gardener, she said to Him, “Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you put Him, and I will take Him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (which means, Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’”Mary Magdalene came and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and that He had said these things to her.”

Father, on this Resurrection Sunday, I want to say thank You for giving Your only begotten Son. Thank You that You loved me so much that You gave Your best for me.

Jesus, I believe that You are the Son of God. That You lived, You died, and that You rose again. I am trusting in You as my Savior, and I am going to follow You as my Lord. I am turning away from a life of self, to live my life for You believing that following You and trusting You is the best and most important decision of my life.

Holy Spirit, I surrender to Your guidance. Fill me today with an awareness of Your presence and power. Holy Spirit You raised Jesus from the dead. I believe that the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the grave now lives in me.

Jesus I believe and am trusting that You are the resurrection and the life. In Your name, Amen.

John 17 and 18

Betrayal comes in different forms:

Betrayal of confidential information
Betrayal by not standing up for people you love
Betrayal by abandonment
Betrayal by hurtful words or deeds

There’s power in words

Proverbs 16:24: “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body”. NLT

Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger”. NIV

Proverbs 12:25: “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up”. NIV

Proverbs 18:4: “The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters…” ESV

Proverbs 15:4: “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” NLT

Proverbs 25:11: “Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket.” NLT

There’s power in actions

“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” James 2:26 NIV

“Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees.” John 18:2-3 (NIV)

“Meanwhile, Simon Peter was still standing there warming himself. So they asked him, “You aren’t one of his disciples too, are you?” He denied it, saying, “I am not.” One of the high priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the garden?” Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.” John 18:25-26

Helpful advice for when you’ve been betrayed:

1. Understand the grief cycle

2. Pick up your cross

“Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle.” John 19 (NIV)

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”” Matt 16:24 (NIV)

3. Don’t react in a way that you will regret later

4. Pray genuine prosperity and blessings on the one who hurt you

“I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them. I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power ofyour name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one.” John 17:9-11 (NIV)

“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by[d] the truth; your word is truth.” John 17:15-16 (NIV)

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” John 17:20 (NIV)

John 16

Courage is gained through the power of grace

“These things I have spoken to you so that you may be kept from stumbling. They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God. These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me. But these things I have spoken to you, so that when their hour comes, you may remember that I told you of them. These things I did not say to you at the beginning, because I was with you.” John 16:1-4 NASB

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus.It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NASB 95

Courage is gained through the power of Pentecost

“But now I am going to Him who sent Me; and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me; and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged. “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.” John 16:5-15 NASB

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you…” Acts 1:8 CSB

Courage is gained through the power of pain

“A little while, and you will no longer see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me.” Some of His disciples then said to one another, “What is this thing He is telling us, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me’; and, ‘because I go to the Father’?” So they were saying, “What is this that He says, ‘A little while’? We do not know what He is talking about.” Jesus knew that they wished to question Him, and He said to them, “Are you deliberating together about this, that I said, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me, and again a little while, and you will see Me’? Truly, truly, I say to you, that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will grieve, but your grief will be turned into joy. Whenever a woman is in labor she has pain, because her hour has come; but when she gives birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish because of the joy that a child has been born into the world. Therefore you too have grief now; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” John 16:16-22 NASB

“Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4 CSB

Courage is gained through the power of Prayer and His Promises

“In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full. “These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; an hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but will tell you plainly of the Father. In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I will request of the Father on your behalf; for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father. I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.” His disciples said, “Lo, now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech. Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:23-33 NASB*

“For every one of God’s promises is “Yes” in him. Therefore, through him we also say “Amen” to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 CSB

John 15

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” John 15:1-11 NASB 1995

In our relationship with Jesus, we need to remember we are the branches

“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.3 Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. This I command you, that you love one another.” John 15:12-17 NASB 1995

In our relationships with one another we need to remember we are to love one another

“If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you.If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates Me hates My Father also.If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well. But they have done this to fulfill the word that is written in their Law, ‘They hated Me without a cause.’“When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me,and you will testify also, because you have been with Me from the beginning.” John 15:18-27 NASB 1995

In our relationship with the world, we need to remember we will be rejected and persecuted

John 14

Take comfort in your future hope

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.In My Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will take you to Myself, so that where I am, there you also will be. And you know the way where I am going.” Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going; how do we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him.” Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time, and yet you have not come to know Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own, but the Father, as He remains in Me, does His works.Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves.” John 14:1-11NASB

Take comfort in your purpose

Truly, truly I say to you, the one who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I am going to the Father. And whatever you ask in My name, this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:12-15 NASB

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the Father who is full of mercy, the God of all comfort. He comforts us every time we have trouble so that when others have trouble, we can comfort them with the same comfort God gives us.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ERV

Take comfort in the Comforter for your present trials

“I will ask the Father, and another Comforter He will give to you,” (YLT) so that He may be with you forever; the Helper (Comforter) is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him; but you know Him because He remains with you and will be in you. “I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you. After a little while, the world no longer is going to see Me, but you are going to see Me; because I live, you also will live. On that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I in you. The one who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and the one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will reveal Myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, “Lord, what has happened that You are going to reveal Yourself to us and not to the world?” Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will follow My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our dwelling with him. The one who does not love Me does not follow My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me. “These things I have spoken to you while remaining with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you.” John 14:16-26 NASB

Take comfort in His peace

“Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful. You heard that I said to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved Me, you would have rejoiced because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it happens, so that when it happens, you may believe. I will not speak much more with you, for the ruler of the world is coming, and he has nothing in regard to Me, but so that the world may know that I love the Father, I do exactly as the Father commanded Me.” John 14:27-31 NASB

“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 NIV

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Matthew 5:6 NIV

How do I nurture my hunger for God?

I need to acknowledge my hunger.

I need to realize what I’m hungry for

I need to eliminate the things that suppress my hunger for God

I need to practice the things that increase my hunger for God

What is spiritual fasting?

Fasting is a voluntary abstinence of food (or other things), for spiritual power and growth
Fasting is expected

“When you fast…” Matthew 6:16

Fasting helps us gain discipline, discipline leads to godliness

“…discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8-9 NASB

Fasting demonstrates humility and dependence on God

“I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.” Psalm 35:13 NIV

Fasting is a way of seeking God for a break through

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” Isaiah 58:6 NIV

Fasting is way of seeking God’s wisdom and direction

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” Acts 13:2-3 NIV

Fasting is a way of strengthening our prayers

“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” Matthew 17:21 NKJV

“… let us draw near to God…” Hebrews 10:22 NIV

“Be still, and know that I am God…” Psalm 46:10 NLT

The practice of solitude: Withdrawing to privacy for the purpose focusing on God, spiritual growth and strength.

“After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone” Matthew 14:23 NIV

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Mark 1:35 NIV

“At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place…” Luke 4:42 NIV

Alone time with God is vital for spiritual communion

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24 NIV

Alone time with God is vital for spiritual cleansing

“for our “God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:29

Alone time with God is vital to receive spiritual counsel

“This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” Matthew 17:5 NIV

Alone time with God is vital for equipping us for spiritual conflict

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12 NIV

“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” Matthew 6:9-13 NKJV

Give God your worship

Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name

Give God your will

Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven

Give God your worries

Give us this day our daily bread.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6

Give God your wrongs

And forgive us our debts

Give God your wounds

as we forgive our debtors

Give God your war

And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Remember to pray together

“Our Father, Give Us, Our daily bread, forgive us, lead us…”

“I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:19-20 NIV

Sabbath is a rhythm of creation

“And so the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their heavenly lights. By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because on it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.” Genesis 2:1-3 NASB

Sabbath is rest and worship

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. For six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God; on it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male slave or your female slave, or your cattle, or your resident who stays with you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea and everything that is in them, and He rested on the seventh day; for that reason the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Exodus 20:8-11 NASB

Sabbath is resistance

“Keep the Sabbath day to treat it as holy, as the Lord your God commanded you. For six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God; you shall not do any work that day, you or your son or your daughter, or your male slave or your female slave, or your ox, your donkey, or any of your cattle, or your resident who stays with you, so that your male slave and your female slave may rest as well as you. And you shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out of there by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; therefore the Lord your God commanded you to celebrate the Sabbath day.” Deuteronomy 5:12-15 NASB

Sabbath is a practice

“Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord, even of the Sabbath.” Mark 2:27-28 NASB

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 The Message

“I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 NASB

The Story

James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, came up to Jesus, saying to Him, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You.” And He said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” They said to Him, “Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” They said to Him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you shall drink; and you shall be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized. But to sit on My right or on My left is not Mine to give; but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” Hearing this, the other ten began to feel indignant with James and John. Calling them to Himself, Jesus said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles domineer over them; and their people in high position exercise authority over them. But it is not this way among you; rather, whoever wants to become prominent among you shall be your servant; and whoever wants to be first among you shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:35-45 NASB*

Then, when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done for you? You call Me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord’; and you are correct, for so I am. So if I, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example, so that you also would do just as I did for you.Truly, truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. John 13:12-17 NASB

The Framework

We must live within the economy of the Kingdom of Jesus

“It’s not going to be that way with you. Whoever wants to be great must become a servant. Whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave. That is what the Son of Man has done: He came to serve, not to be served—and then to give away his life in exchange for many who are held hostage.” Mark 10:43-45

We must embrace an embodied faith

So, my dear family, this is my appeal to you by the mercies of God: offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. That’s what properly thought-out worship looks like. Romans 12:1 (NTFE)

We must view each day as an opportunity to partner with Jesus in building His kingdom

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 NASB

How Can We Cultivate A Life Of Service?

Proximity
Space
Action

“People do not live by bread alone,but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 NLT

“You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.” Hebrews 5:12-14 NLT

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feetand a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 NLT

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,” 2 Timothy 3:16 NIV

Teaching: The Bible shows me the path of life that God has designed for me

Rebuking: The Bible shows me when I have strayed off the path

Correcting: The Bible show me how to get back on the path

Training: The Bible shows me how to stay on the path

The Steps

Step 1: Inspiration “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” 1 Timothy 3:16 NASB

Requirement: Faith

Step 2: Devotion “I delight in your decrees;I will not neglect your word.” Psalm 119:16 NIV

Requirement: Time

Step 3: Meditation “Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.But they delight in the law of the Lord,meditating on it day and night.” Psalm 1:1-2 NLT

Requirement: Thinking

Step 4: Interpretation “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV

“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” Acts 17:11 NIV

Requirement: Study

The Results

Illumination “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” Psalm 119:18 NIV
Transformation “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT
Application “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.” James 1:22-25 NLT

“Thus says Yahweh, “Stand by the ways and see and ask for the ancient paths, Where the good way is, and walk in it;
And you will find rest for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16 LSB

“This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look. Ask where the old road is. Ask where the good road is, and walk on that road. If you do, you will find rest for yourselves.” Jeremiah 6:16 ERV

What is the Way?

The Way is a person

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me.”

The Way is an invitation from Jesus

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:18-31 LSB

The Way is being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing what Jesus did

Why practice the Way?

Rest for our soul

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest… and you will find rest for your souls.”

Who is the invitation for?

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion?”B MSG

“Are you having a real struggle? Come to me! Are you carrying a big load on your back? Come to me—I’ll give you a rest!” NTFE

How do we practice the Way?

We arrange our lives around the same priorities and practices that marked the life of Jesus

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me…”

https://www.practicingtheway.org/reflection

Working Definition of Hope: The expectation of coming good based on the person and presence of God.

Reimagining The Christmas Story

“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.” Luke 1:26-38 ESV

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”(which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.” Matthew 1:18-25 ESV

Seeing The Bigger Story

“Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.”And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egyptand remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Matthew 2:13-15 ESV

“When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. The more they were called, the more they went away; they kept sacrificing to the Baals and burning offerings to idols. Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk; I took them up by their arms, but they did not know that I healed them.” Hosea 11:1-3 ESV

Hope For My Story

Jesus is with us in our current reality

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). Matthew 1:23 ESV

Jesus is coming again and will make all things new

“In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, “So shall your offspring be.”He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrennessof Sarah’s womb. No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised.” Romans 4:18-21 ESV

“Blessed is she who believed that there would bea fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” Luke 1:45 ESV

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13 ESV

“Jesse fathered David the king. David fathered Solomon by her who had been the wife of Uriah.” Matthew 1:6 NASB

“…He raised up David to be their king, concerning whom He also testified and said, ‘I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after My heart, who will do all My will.” Acts 13:22 NASB

2 Samuel 11-12, Psalm 51

What Should We Do With Our Failures?

Don’t keep them in the dark

“Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night.” Psalm 51:1-3 NLT

Confess them to God and to the appropriate others

“Against you, and you alone, have I sinned;I have done what is evil in your sight.You will be proved right in what you say,and your judgment against me is just.For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.But you desire honesty from the womb,teaching me wisdom even there.Purify me from my sins,and I will be clean;wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:4-7 NLT

“If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” 1 John 1:8-9 NLT

“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” James 5:16 NLT

Do a 180°

Oh, give me back my joy again;you have broken me—now let me rejoice.Don’t keep looking at my sins.Remove the stain of my guilt.Create in me a clean heart, O God.Renew a loyal spirit within me.Do not banish me from your presence,and don’t take your Holy Spiritfrom me.Restore to me the joy of your salvation,and make me willing to obey you. Psalm 51:8-12 NLT

Learn from your failures and trust God to work them for good

“Then I will teach your ways to rebels,and they will return to you.Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves;then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness.Unseal my lips, O Lord,that my mouth may praise you.You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one.You do not want a burnt offering.The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit.You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.Look with favor on Zion and help her;rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.” Psalm 51:13-18 NLT

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 NLT

Leave them at the cross

“Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit—with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings. Then bulls will again be sacrificed on your altar.” Psalm 51:19 NLT

“Boaz fathered Obed by Ruth, and Obed fathered Jesse. Jesse fathered David the king.” Matthew 1:5 NASB

Naomi: The bitter and broken one

“So they both went on until they came to Bethlehem. And when they had come to Bethlehem, all the city was stirred because of them, and the women said, “Is this Naomi?” But she said to them, “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me and the Almighty has afflicted me?” So Naomi returned, and with her Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter-in-law, who returned from the land of Moab. And they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest.” Ruth1:19-22 NASB

Ruth: The unlikely one

“Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor in your sight that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?” Ruth 2:10 NASB

Boaz: The redeeming one
The bitter and broken ones: You and me

“Seeing the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and downcast, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36 NASB

The unlikely ones: Us

“God’s folly is wiser than humans, you see, and God’s weakness is stronger than humans. Think back to your own call, my brothers and sisters. Not many of you were wise in human terms. Not many of you were powerful. Not many were nobly born. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong; God chose the insignificant and despised things of the world—yes, even things that don’t exist!—to abolish the power of the things that do exist, so that no creature could boast in God’s presence. Who and what you now are is a gift from God in Messiah Jesus, who has become for us God’s wisdom—and righteousness, sanctification and redemption as well; so that, as the Bible puts it, “Anyone who boasts should boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:25-31 NTFE

The Redeeming One: Jesus

“For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” Colossians 1:13-20 NASB

Genesis 29-30

What can we glean from this messy story?

God does not reject us because of our messiness

“Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him would not be lost but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world. He did not send him to judge the world guilty, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17 ERV

“The Son of Man came to find lost people and save them.” Luke 19:10 ERV

“But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” Luke 15:32 ERV

God uses messy people

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord because he trusted me and gave me this work of serving him. He gives me strength. In the past I insulted Christ. As a proud and violent man, I persecuted his people. But God gave me mercy because I did not know what I was doing. I did that before I became a believer. But our Lord gave me a full measure of his grace. And with that grace came the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a true statement that should be accepted without question: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, and I am the worst of them. But I was given mercy so that in me Christ Jesus could show that he has patience without limit. Christ showed his patience with me, the worst of all sinners. He wanted me to be an example for those who would believe in him and have eternal life. Honor and glory to the King who rules forever. He cannot be destroyed and cannot be seen. Honor and glory forever and ever to the only God. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:12-17 ERV

God can use the messes of life to create fruitful lives

Luke 23:54-62

John 21:15-17

Acts 2

Genesis 24

A loving father

“Abraham lived to be a very old man. The Lord blessed him and everything he did. Abraham’s oldest servant was in charge of everything he owned. Abraham called that servant to him and said, “Put your hand under my leg. Now I want you to make a promise to me. Promise to me before the Lord, the God of heaven and earth, that you will not allow my son to marry a girl from Canaan. We live among these people, but don’t let him marry a Canaanite girl. Go back to my country, to my own people, to find a wife for my son Isaac. Bring her here to him.” The servant said to him, “Maybe this woman will not want to come back with me to this land. If that happens, should I take your son with me to your homeland?” Abraham said to him, “No, don’t take my son to that place. The Lord, the God of heaven, brought me from my homeland to this place. That place was the home of my father and the home of my family, but he promised that this new land would belong to my family. May he send his angel before you so that you can choose a wife for my son. If the girl refuses to come with you, you will be free from this promise. But you must not take my son back to that place.” So the servant put his hand under his master’s leg and made the promise.” Genesis 24:1-9 ERV

An obedient servant

“The servant took ten of Abraham’s camels and left that place. The servant carried with him many different kinds of beautiful gifts. He went to Mesopotamia, to Nahor’s city. In the evening, when the women come out to get water, he went to the water well outside the city. He made the camels kneel down at the well. The servant said, “Lord, you are the God of my master Abraham. Please show your kindness to my master by helping me find a wife for his son Isaac. Here I am, standing by this well of water, and the young women from the city are coming out to get water. I will say to one of them, ‘Please put your jar down so that I can drink.’ Let her answer show whether she is the one you have chosen for your servant Isaac. If she says, ‘Drink, and I will also give water to your camels,’ I will know that she is the right one. It will be proof that you have shown kindness to my master.” Genesis 24:10-14 ERV

An honorable bride

“Before the servant finished praying, a young woman named Rebekah came to the well. She was the daughter of Bethuel. (Bethuel was the son of Milcah and Nahor, Abraham’s brother.) Rebekah came to the well with her water jar on her shoulder. She was very pretty. She was a virgin; no man had ever had sexual relations with her. She went down to the well and filled her jar. Then the servant ran to her and said, “Please give me a little water to drink from your jar.” Rebekah quickly lowered the jar from her shoulder and gave him a drink. She said, “Drink this, sir.” As soon as she finished giving him something to drink, Rebekah said, “I will also pour some water for your camels.” So Rebekah quickly poured all the water from her jar into the drinking trough for the camels. Then she ran to the well to get more water, and she gave water to all the camels. The servant quietly watched her. He wanted to be sure that the Lord had given him an answer and had made his trip successful. After the camels finished drinking, he gave Rebekah a gold ring that weighed 1/4 ounce. He also gave her two gold arm bracelets that weighed 2 ounces each. The servant asked, “Who is your father? And is there a place in your father’s house for me and my men to sleep?” Rebekah answered, “My father is Bethuel, the son of Milcah and Nahor.”Then she said, “Yes, we have straw and other food for your camels and a place for you to sleep.” The servant bowed and worshiped the Lord. He said, “Praise be to the Lord, the God of my master Abraham. The Lord has been kind and loyal to him by leading me to his own people.” Genesis 24:15-26 ERV

A devoted son

“The servant told Isaac everything that had happened. Then Isaac brought the girl into his mother’s tent. Rebekah became his wife that day. Isaac loved her very much. So he was comforted after his mother’s death.” Genesis 24:66-67 NASB

A faithful God

“The servant bowed and worshiped the Lord. He said, “Praise be to the Lord, the God of my master Abraham. The Lord has been kind and loyal to him by leading me to his own people.” Genesis 24:26-27 NASB

A woman and a well

John 4:1-29

“Sarah, too, had faith, and because of this she was able to become a mother in spite of her old age, for she realized that God, who gave her his promise, would certainly do what he said. And so a whole nation came from Abraham, who was too old to have even one child—a nation with so many millions of people that, like the stars of the sky and the sand on the ocean shores, there is no way to count them.” Hebrews 11:11-12 LB

Fulfilled Dreams

Fulfilled Desires

Fulfilled Promises

All three have one thing in common- Timing

“…you will have a son of your own who will be your heir.” Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!” And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith.” Genesis 15:4-5 NLT

The three sons mentioned in Abraham’s life are three approaches to moving toward a fulfilled dream, a fulfilled desire, and the fulfillment of a promise from God.

Eliezer = My timing

“Some time later, the Lord spoke to Abram in a vision and said to him, “Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great.” But Abram replied, “O Sovereign Lord, what good are all your blessings when I don’t even have a son? Since you’ve given me no children, Eliezer of Damascus, a servant in my household, will inherit all my wealth. You have given me no descendants of my own, so one of my servants will be my heir.” Then the Lord said to him, “No, your servant will not be your heir, for you will have a son of your own who will be your heir.” Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!” Genesis 15:1-5 NLT

Ishmael = Other’s timing

“Now Sarai, Abram’s wife had borne him no children, and she had an Egyptian maid whose name was Hagar. So Sarai said to Abram, “Now behold, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Please go in to my maid; perhaps I will obtain children through her.” And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. After Abram had lived ten years in the land of Canaan, Abram’s wife Sarai took Hagar the Egyptian, her maid, and gave her to her husband Abram as his wife.” Genesis 16:1-3 NASB 95

“So Hagar bore Abram a son; and Abram called the name of his son, whom Hagar bore, Ishmael. Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore Ishmael to him.” Genesis 16:15-16 NASB 95

Isaac = God’s timing

“Then God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and indeed I will give you a son by her. Then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her.”Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, “Will a child be born to a man one hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?”And Abraham said to God, “Oh that Ishmael might live before You!” But God said, “No, but Sarah your wife will bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac; and I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him.” Genesis 17:15-19 NASB 95

“Then the Lord took note of Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did for Sarah as He had promised. So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the appointed time of which God had spoken to him. Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore to him, Isaac. Then Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. Now Abraham was one hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. Sarah said, “God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh with me.” And she said, “Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.” Genesis 21:1-7 NASB 95

Luke 3:23-38, Matthew 1:1-17

The making of a good story

Premise

Plot

Character

Prose

Theme

The Story Of Adam And Eve Is The Story Of Humanity

“So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Then God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you; and to every animal of the earth and to every bird of the sky and to everything that moves on the earth which has life, I have given every green plant for food”; and it was so. And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.” Genesis 1:27-31 NASB

“For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, but they were not ashamed.” Genesis 2:24-25 NASB

To Understand This Unfinished Story, We Need To

Know the plot

“And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.” Genesis 1:31

Know the characters and their actions

Grandma Eve: Got deceived

Grandpa Adam: Lacked trust in God and lacked faith and leadership

Know how the story ends

“He shall bruise you on the head, And you shall bruise Him on the heel.” Genesis 3:15 NASB

“So he then handed Him over to them to be crucified.” John 19:16 NASB

“who (Jesus) was handed over because of our trespasses and raised because of our justification.” Romans 4:25 NTFE

“It is finished!” John 19:30 NASB (See Genesis 2:2)

“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all mankind, because all sinned… So then, as through one offense the result was condemnation to all mankind, so also through one act of righteousness the result was justification of life to all mankind.” Romans 5:12,18 NASB

“But in fact the Messiah has been raised from the dead, as the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since it was through a human that death arrived, it’s through a human that the resurrection from the dead has arrived. All die in Adam, you see, and all will be made alive in the Messiah…When all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, so that God may be all in all.” 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, 28 NTFE

“Behold, I am making all things new.” Revelation 21:5 NASB

“And he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” Revelation 22:1-2 NASB

“But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked an opportunity to act. Not that I speak from need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my difficulty. You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone; for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek the profit which increases to your account. But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen. Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” Philippians 4:10-23 NASB

Four Things We Need To Know About Contentment

Real contentment is a secret

“…I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,” Vs. 12 NIV

Imitation contentment is exposed by “plenty” and “want”

“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,whether living in plenty or in want.” Vs.12 NIV

Real contentment is not discovered, it is learned

“I have learned the secret of being content…” Vs.12 NIV

When I am discontent I can

Blame others

Blame my circumstances

Blame God

Or trust God to meet my deepest needs and longings

“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Vs. 19

Real and lasting contentment is only found in JesusChrist

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Vs. 13

“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.” Isaiah 55:1-2 NIV

“This is what theLordsays: “Stand at the crossroads and look;ask for the ancient paths,ask where the good wayis, and walk in it,and you will find restfor your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16 NIV

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29 NIV

“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, whom I long to see, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also, help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement as well as the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all people. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things. As for the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:1-9 NASB

Pursuing Joy In Peace

By embracing peace with others

“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, whom I long to see, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also, help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement as well as the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.” Vs. 1-3

By experiencing peace within

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all people. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Vs. 4-6

By enjoying peace with God

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things. As for the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Vs. 7-9

Pursuing humility means

Not having too much confidence in the flesh

“Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh — though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more” Philippians 3:1-4 NIV

Not focusing too much on status

“…circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ” Philippians 3:1-4 NIV

Not focusing too much on worldly things

“What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.” Philippians 3:8 NIV

Not identifying as citizens of this world

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” Philippians 3:18-20 NIV

Finding joy in humility means

We will be given forgiveness for our past
We will inherit great riches in heaven
We will be exalted
We will see the greatness of God’s power
We will be trusted with great responsibility

To be GREAT, you must be LEAST (Matthew 20:25-28)

To be STRONG, you must be WEAK (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

To be WISE, you must be a FOOL (1 Corinthians 3:18-20)

To RECEIVE, you must GIVE (Luke 6:38)

To FIND your life, you must LOSE (Matthew 16:24-25)

Pastor Gary Hamrick

“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, as He already existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross. For this reason also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-10 NASB

“But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition. For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. But you know of his proven worth, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father. Therefore I hope to send him immediately, as soon as I see how things go with me; and I trust in the Lord that I myself also will be coming shortly. But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need; because he was longing for you all and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I have sent him all the more eagerly so that when you see him again you may rejoice and I may be less concerned about you. Receive him then in the Lord with all joy, and hold men like him in high regard; because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was deficient in your service to me.” Philippians 2:19-30 (NASB)

“And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.” But wishing to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied and said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among robbers, and they stripped him and beat him, and went away leaving him half dead. And by chance a priest was going down on that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise a Levite also, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, who was on a journey, came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion, and came to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them; and he put him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn and took care of him. On the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper and said, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I return I will repay you.’ Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?” And he said, “The one who showed mercy toward him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do the same.” Luke 10:25-37 NASB

To Experience Joy In Serving You Must

Learn to see those around you

“I ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!” Ephesians 1:18,19 The Message

Choose to surrender your will

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20 NASB

Embrace a life of sacrifice for the sake of the gospel

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 NASB

“So then, my beloved,just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your ownsalvation withfear and trembling;for it isGod who is at work in you, both todesire and to workforHisgood pleasure.Do all things withoutcomplaining or arguments;so that you willprove yourselves to beblameless and innocent,children of God above reproach in the midst of acrooked and perverse generation, among whom youappear aslights in the world,holding firmly the word of life, so that onthe day of Christ I can take pride because I did notrun in vain norlabor in vain.But even if I am beingpoured out as a drink offering uponthe sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.You too,I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.” Philippians 2:12-18 NASB

Common Heart Problems And Their Remedy

Fear Faith Vs. 13

Bad attitudes Love Vs. 14

Guilt Grace Vs. 15

Pain Perseverance Vs. 16

Selfishness Sacrifice Vs. 17-18

“..work out your ownsalvation withfear and trembling;” Vs. 12

5 Exercises For A Joyful Heart

Keep reminding yourself that God is with you and for you

“for it isGod who is at work in you, both todesire and to workforHisgood pleasure.” Vs. 13

Keep a grateful and compliant heart

“Do all things withoutcomplaining or arguments;” Vs. 14

Keep a clean conscience

“so that you willprove yourselves to beblameless and innocent,children of God above reproach in the midst of acrooked and perverse generation,” Vs. 15

“Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!” Psalm 32:1-2 NLT

Keep your grip on the Gospel

“holding firmly the word of life,” Vs. 16

Meditate on it

Memorize it

Study it

Read it

Hear it

Apply it

Keep living for the ultimate affirmation

“But even if I am beingpoured out as a drink offering uponthe sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.You too,I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.” Vs.17-18

“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if anyfellowship of the Spirit, if anyaffection and compassion,make my joy completebybeing of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.Do nothingfromselfishness orempty conceit, but with humilityconsider one another as more important than yourselves; do notmerelylook out for your own personalinterests, but also for theinterestsof others.Have this attitudein yourselves which was also inChrist Jesus,who, as Healreadyexisted in theform of God,did not consider equality with God something to begrasped,butemptied Himselfbytaking the form of abond-servantandbeing born in the likeness of men.And being found in appearance as a man,He humbled Himself by becomingobedient to the point of death:deathon a cross.For this reason also Godhighly exalted Him, and bestowed on Himthe name which is above every name,so that at the name of Jesusevery knee will bow, ofthose who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,andthatevery tongue will confess that Jesus Christ isLord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:1-11 NASB

How To Pursue Joy In My Attitude

Start with the right foundations

“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if anyfellowship of the Spirit, if anyaffection and compassion,make my joy completebybeing of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.” Vs.1-2

Make the right attitude choices

“Do nothingfromselfishness orempty conceit, but with humilityconsider one another as more important than yourselves; do notmerelylook out for your own personalinterests, but also for theinterestsof others.” Vs. 3-4

Imitate the right example

“Have this attitudein yourselves which was also inChrist Jesus,who, as Healreadyexisted in theform of God,did not consider equality with God something to begrasped,butemptied Himselfbytaking the form of abond-servantandbeing born in the likeness of men.And being found in appearance as a man,He humbled Himself by becomingobedient to the point of death:deathon a cross.For this reason also Godhighly exalted Him, and bestowed on Himthe name which is above every name,so that at the name of Jesusevery knee will bow, ofthose who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,andthatevery tongue will confess that Jesus Christ isLord, to the glory of God the Father.” Vs. 5-11

“Now I want you to know, brothersand sisters, that my circumstanceshave turned out for the greater progress of thegospel,so that myimprisonment inthe cause ofChrist has become well known throughout thepraetorian guard and toeveryone else,and that most of the brothersand sisters,trusting in the Lord because of myimprisonment, havefar more courage to speak the word of God without fear.Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ evenfrom envy and strife, but some alsofrom goodwill;the latterdo itout of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of thegospel;the former proclaim Christout of selfish ambitionrather than from pure motives, thinking that they are causing me distress in myimprisonment.What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in this I rejoice.Butnot only that, I also will rejoice,for I know that this will turn out for mydeliverancethrough yourprayers and the provision ofthe Spirit of Jesus Christ,according to myeager expectation andhope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, butthatwithall boldness, Christ will even now, as always, beexalted in my body,whether by life or by death.For to me,to live is Christ, and to die is gain.But ifI amto liveonin the flesh, thiswill meanfruitful labor for me; and I do not knowwhich to choose.But I am hard-pressed from bothdirections, having thedesire to depart andbe with Christ, forthatis very much better;yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sakes.Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joyin the faith,so that yourpride in Christ Jesus may be abundant because of me by my coming to you again.Only conduct yourselves in a mannerworthy of thegospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear about you that you arestanding firm inone spirit, with onemindstriving together for the faith of the gospel;and in no way alarmed byyouropponents—which is asign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and thistoo, from God.For to youit has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also tosuffer on His behalf,experiencing the sameconflict whichyou saw in me, and now hearto bein me.” Philippians 1:12-30 NASB

How To Pursue Joy In All Circumstances

Focus on God’s perspective rather than problems

Vs. 12-14

Focus on God’s priorities rather than difficult people

Vs. 15-19

Focus on God’s eternal purposes rather than the temporary pressures of today

Vs. 20-26

Focus on God’s promises rather than the pain of life

Vs. 27-30

“Paul andTimothy,bond-servants ofChrist Jesus, Toall thesaints in Christ Jesus who are inPhilippi,including theoverseers anddeacons:Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,always offering prayer with joy inmy every prayer for you all,in view of yourparticipation in thegospelfrom the first day until now.For I amconfident of this very thing, that He who began a good workamong you will complete itbythe day of Christ Jesus. Forit is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because Ihave you in my heart, since both in myimprisonment and in thedefense and confirmation of thegospel, you all arepartakers of grace with me.ForGod is my witness, how I long for you all with theaffection ofChrist Jesus.And this I pray, thatyour love may overflow still more and more inreal knowledge and all discernment,so that you maydiscover the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and blameless forthe day of Christ;having been filled with thefruit of righteousness whichcomesthrough Jesus Christ, for the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:1-11 NASB

Pursuing joy in relationships

Be grateful for them

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you… Vs. 3

Be prayerful for them

“…always offering prayer with joy inmy every prayer for you all…” Vs. 4

What did Paul pray?

“And this I pray, thatyour love may overflow still more and more inreal knowledge and all discernment,so that you maydiscover the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and blameless forthe day of Christ;having been filled with thefruit of righteousness whichcomesthrough Jesus Christ, for the glory and praise of God.” Vs. 9-11

Believe the best about them

“For I amconfident of this very thing, that He who began a good workamong you will complete itbythe day of Christ Jesus.” Vs. 9

Believe that you can love them like Jesus does

“Forit is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because Ihave you in my heart… ForGod is my witness, how I long for you all with theaffection ofChrist Jesus.” Vs. 7-8

“We believe in the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting Amen.”

“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21 NIV

God wants us to live fully alive rather than just exist

“…to live is Christ…”

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV

To live fully alive is to…

Live with purpose

Live with peace and joy

Live with significance and security

Live without regret

“Life is the sum total of what you do with moments given to you…you have no control when you die (most often) how you will die, but you do have control over how you live.” Erwin McManus

God wants us to see death from His perspective

“…to die is gain.”

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116:15 NIV

Death is gain…

Because we will be face to face with Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:8)

Because we will be free from sin, sickness, and sorrow (Revelation 21:4)

Because we will finally be in our real home (John 14:1-3)

Because we will be rewarded for how we spent our lives (Revelation 14:13)

“Then I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Write this: God’s blessing on the dead who from this time onward die in the Lord.”“Yes,” says the spirit, “so that they may rest from their works, for the deeds they have done follow after them.”

“We believe…In Christ’s holy Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins.”

How to live with God’s people

Honor the Church because it is His Church

“In Christ’s holy Church…”

“I will build My Church…” Matthew 16:18

The universal church

The local church

His Church is a family

“God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.” Ephesians 1:5 NLT

His Church is a body

“Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function,so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.” Romans 12:4-5 NLT

His Church is a bride

Revelation 21, Ephesians 5

Walk in love and strive for unity

“The communion of saints…”

Love

“…love the family of believers…” 1 Peter 2:17 NIV

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35 NLT

“And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.” 2 John Vs 6 NIV

Unity

“I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” John 17:21 NLT

“Make every effort to keep the unityof the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one bodyand one Spirit,just as you were called to one hope when you were called;one Lord,one faith, one baptism;one God and Father of all,who is over all and through all and in all.” Ephesians 4:3-6 NIV

Remind yourself daily of how much you have been forgiven

“the forgiveness of sins…”

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselveswith compassion, kindness, humility,gentleness and patience. Bear with each otherand forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.And over all these virtues put on love,which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Colossians 3:12-14 NIV

We believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit, Christ’s holy church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen.

“We believe in the Holy Spirit.”

“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:13 NASB

How do we live by the Spirit?

We allow Him to convict (Convince) us

“And He, when He comes, will convict the world regarding sin, and righteousness, and judgment; regarding sin,because they do not believe in Me;and regardingrighteousness, becauseI am going to the Father and you no longerare going tosee Me;and regarding judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.“I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bearthemat the present time.But when He,the Spirit of truth, comes, He willguide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.” John 16:8-13 NASB

We allow Him to comfort us

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26 KJV

We allow Him to counsel us

“The Spiritof theLordwill rest on him—the Spirit of wisdomand of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord…” Isaiah 11:2 NIV

We allow Him to conform us

“…be filled with the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:18

“Walk in the Spirit…” Galatians 5:16

“Be led by the Spirit…” Galatians 5:18, Romans 8:14

“We believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.”

I – Jesus

X- Christ

T-

God’s

H-

U- Son

S- Savior

“He is theimage of theinvisible God, thefirstborn of all creation: forby Him all things were created,bothin the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whetherthrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.Heis before all things, and in Him all thingshold together.He is also thehead ofthe body, the church; and He isthe beginning,the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.Forit wastheFather’sgood pleasure for allthefullness to dwell in Him,and through Him toreconcile all things to Himself,whether things on earth or things inheaven, having madepeace throughthe blood of His cross.” Colossians 1:15-21 NASB

How To Live Life In The Son

Realize Who He is
He is the eternal Son of God and the living Word of God

“In the beginning wasthe Word, and the Word waswith God, andthe Word was God.He was in the beginning with God.All things came into being through Him, and apart from Himnot even one thing came into being that has come into being.” John 1:1-3 NASB

He is the only Savior of the world

“This is good and acceptable in the sight ofGod our Savior,who wants all people to besaved and tocome to theknowledge of the truth.For there isone God,andone mediator also between God and mankind,theman Christ Jesus,whogave Himself as a ransom for all, thetestimonygivenatthe proper time.” 1 Timothy 2:3-6 NASB

He is the resurrection and the life

“I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies,and everyone who lives and believes in Mewill never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 NASB

He is our ascended and soon coming King

“And after He had said these things,He was lifted up while they were watching, and a cloud took Him up, out of their sight.And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, then behold,two men in white clothing stood beside them,and they said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, whohas been taken up from you into heaven, willcome in the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:9-11 NASB

Receive Him as Savior

“She will give birth to a Son; and you shall name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21 NASB

Rely on Him as Lord

“I am the light of the world. Whoeverfollows me will notwalk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 ESV

We believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under ontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit, Christ’s holy church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen.

“We believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth.”

“Sing praises to God and to his name!Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds.His name is theLord—rejoice in his presence!Father to the fatherless, defender of widows—this is God, whose dwelling is holy.” Psalm 68:4-5 NLT

“There isone body and one Spirit, just as you also were called in onehope of your calling;one Lord, one faith, one baptism,one God and Father of allwho is over all and through all and in all.” Ephesians 4:4-6 NASB

“Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father, who is in heaven,Hallowed be Your name.” Matthew 6:9 NASB

Characteristics of God our Father

He is a caring Father

“The same way a loving father feels toward his children— that’s but a sample of your tender feelings toward us, your beloved children, who live in awe of you.” Psalm 103:13 TPT

He is a consistent Father

“TheLordis trustworthyin all he promises and faithful in all he does.” Psalm 145:13 NIV

He is a close Father

“But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord Godmy refuge, that I may tell of all your works. Psalm 73:28 ESV

He is never to busy for us

“The Lord is near to everyone who sincerely calls to him for help.” Psalm 145:18 ERV

He loves to meet our needs

“If you then, although you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:11 NET

He is empathetic to our hurts

“The Lord is near the brokenhearted; he delivers those who are discouraged.” Psalm 34:18 NET

He is a competent and capable Father

He is Omnipotent

“Ah, Sovereign Lord , you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” Jeremiah 32:17 NIV

He is Omniscience

“Our Lord is great and powerful! He understands everything.” Psalm 147:5 CEV

He is Omnipresent

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 NIV

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16 NASB

What do I believe in?

“Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you— unless indeed you fail the test?” 2 Corinthians 13:5 NASB 95

What are my beliefs based on?

“So then you are no longerstrangers and foreigners, but you arefellow citizens with thesaints, and are ofGod’s household,having beenbuilt onthe foundation ofthe apostles and prophets,Christ Jesus Himself being thecornerstone,” Ephesians 2:19-10 NASB

We believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit, Christ’s holy church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.
Amen.

The Creed Was Designed To

Define the faith

Defend the faith

Declare the faith

Am I living out my beliefs?

“Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage.” 1 Corinthians 16:13 TPT

“It was at this time that the disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is really greatest in the kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus called a little child to his side and set him on his feet in the middle of them all. “Believe me,” he said, “unless you change your whole outlook and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven. It is the man who can be as humble as this little child who is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven.” Matthew 18:1-4 JBP

What Is The Kingdom Of Heaven And What Is It Like?

The King of the kingdom of heaven is a humble King

“Have this attitudein yourselves which was also inChrist Jesus,who, as Healreadyexisted in theform of God,did not consider equality with God something to begrasped,butemptied Himselfbytaking the form of abond-servantandbeing born in the likeness of men.And being found in appearance as a man,He humbled Himself by becomingobedient to the point of death:deathon a cross.For this reason also Godhighly exalted Him, and bestowed on Himthe name which is above every name,so that at the name of Jesusevery knee will bow, ofthose who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,andthatevery tongue will confess that Jesus Christ isLord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11 NASB

The kingdom of Heaven is an upside-down kingdom

Matthew 5-7

The kingdom of Heaven is for the humble

“Believe me,” he said, “unless you change your whole outlook and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven.” Vs.3

How Does The Kingdom Of Heaven Measure Greatness?

Humility over pride

“It is the man who can be as humble as this little child who is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven.” Vs.4

“People who make themselves great will be humbled; and people who humble themselves will become great.” Matthew 23:12 NTFE

Serving over being served

“Jesus called them to him.“You know how it is in the pagan nations,” he said. “Think how their so-called rulers act. They lord it over their subjects. The high and mighty ones boss the rest around.But that’s not how it’s going to be with you. Anyone who wants to be great among you must become your servant.Anyone who wants to be first must be everyone’s slave.Don’t you see? The son of man didn’t come to be waited on. He came to be the servant, to give his life ‘as a ransom for many.’ ” Mark 10:42-45 NTFE

MEGAN: PUT THE PIC THAT SAYS BOSS VS LEADER HERE

Self-denial over selfishness

“Then Jesus said to His disciples,“If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, andtake up his cross and follow Me.Forwhoever wishes to save hislife will lose it; but whoever loses hislife for My sake will find it.” Matthew 16:24-25 NASB 95

Last over first

“But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Matthew 19:30 NASB 95

“But many at the front will find themselves at the back, and the back ones at the front.” Matthew 19:30 NTFE

Action over apathy

Luke 10:30-37

“On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”“You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Luke 10:25-29 NIV

Who Is My Neighbor?

My neighbor
My enemies

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matt 5:44-48 NIV

Those who society rejects

“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” James 2:15-16 NIV

In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denariiand gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ Luke 10:30-35

The Good Samaritan Had

Intentionality and margin
Grace and compassion
Money and relationships
Reliable transportation

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” Luke 10:36-37

“One of the scribes came up and heard them arguing, andrecognizing that He had answered them well, asked Him, “What commandment is theforemost of all?”Jesus answered,“Theforemost is, ‘Hear, Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one;and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:28-31 NASB

What does it mean to love God?

I daily give Him the whole of my life

“…to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21 NASB

I daily seek to do His will with my life

“This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you.” John 15:11-14 MSG

“Now why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” Luke 6:46 NASB

How do I love God?

I need to know that I am loved by the Father

“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19 NKJV

I need to Abide in Jesus and Walk in the Spirit

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruitof itself unless it abides in the vine, so neithercanyou unless you abide in Me.I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, hebears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 NASB 95 (See also Galatians 5:16, 22-23)

I need to Practice integrated discipleship

Head: Loving God with your mind

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT

Heart: Loving God with your heart and soul

“…be filled with the Holy Spirit,singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts.And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:18-20 NLT

Hands: Loving God with all your strength by loving your neighbor

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11 NIV 1984

“Then Peter came up and said to Him, “Lord,how many times shall my brother sin against me and Istillforgive him? Up toseven times?”Jesus said to him,“I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up toseventy-seven times.“For this reasonthe kingdom of heavenis like a king who wanted tosettle accounts with his slaves.And when he had begun to settlethem, one who owed himten thousand talents was brought to him.But since hedid not havethe meansto repay, his master commanded that hebe sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment be made.So the slave fellto the groundandprostrated himself before him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you everything.’And the master of that slave felt compassion, and he released him andforgave him thedebt.But that slave went out and found one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundreddenarii; and he seized him andbeganto chokehim, saying, ‘Pay back what you owe!’So his fellow slave fellto the groundandbeganto plead with him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you.’But he was unwilling,and went and threw him in prison until he would pay back what was owed.So when his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved and came and reported to their master all that had happened.Then summoning him, his master said to him, ‘You wicked slave, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me.Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?’And his master, moved with anger, handed him over to thetorturers until he would repay all that was owed him.My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from yourheart.” Matthew 18:21-35 NASB

Why Must We Forgive Others?

Because God expects me to do for others as a He has done for us

And the master of that slave felt compassion, and he released him andforgave him thedebt. Vs 27

“Don’t be angry with each other, but forgive each other. If you feel someone has wronged you, forgive them. Forgive others because the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13 ERV

Because it is evidence that I have received forgiveness

Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave in the same way that I had mercy on you?’And his master, moved with anger, handed him over to thetorturers until he would repay all that was owed him. Vs 33-34

Because unforgiveness makes us miserable

What Forgiving Others Does Not Mean

Forgiving is not pretending
Forgiving is not forgetting
Forgiving is not the same as reconciliation

How To Forgive

Release it to God
Refuse to take revenge
Refuse to bring it up

Who Do I Need To Forgive?

The blame test: Who do I blame for my circumstances and unhappiness?
The bitterness test: Who am I keeping score with?
The behavior test: Who do I find myself reacting toward?

“As He passed by, He sawLevi thesonof Alphaeus sitting in the tax office, and He said to him,“Follow Me!”And he got up and followed Him.And it happened that He was recliningat the tablein his house, and many tax collectors andsinners weredining with Jesus and His disciples; for there were manyof them, and they were following Him.Whenthe scribes of the Pharisees saw that He was eating with thesinners and tax collectors, they said to His disciples, “Why is He eating with tax collectors and*sinners?”And hearingthis, Jesus said to them,“It isnot those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick; I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:14-17 NASB*

“Now all thetax collectors andsinners were coming nearJesus to listen to Him.And both the Pharisees and the scribesbeganto complain, saying, “This man receives sinners andeats with them.” Luke 1:1-2 NASB

“And He said, “A man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate that is coming to me.’ And so he divided his wealth between them. And not many days later, the younger son gathered everything together and went on a journey to a distant country, and there he squandered his estate in wild living. Now when he had spent everything, a severe famine occurred in that country, and he began doing without. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed pigs. And he longed to have his fill of the carob pods that the pigs were eating, and no one was giving him anything. But when he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired laborers have more than enough bread, but I am dying here from hunger! I will set out and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired laborers.”’ So he set out and came to his father. But when he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, slaughter it, and let’s eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ And they began to celebrate. “Now his older son was in the field, and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. And he summoned one of the servants and began inquiring what these things could be. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound.’ But he became angry and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him. But he answered and said to his father, ‘Look! For so many years I have been serving you and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you never gave me a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends; but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has begun to live, and was lost and has been found.’” Luke 15:11-32 NASB

This Parable Gets Us To Question

The limit of God’s love

“For this reason Ibend my knees before the Father,from whomevery family in heaven and on earth derives its name,that He would grant you, according tothe riches of His glory, to bestrengthened with power through His Spirit inthe innerself,so thatChrist may dwell in your hearts through faith;andthat you, beingrooted andgrounded in love,may be able to comprehend withall thesaints what isthe width and length and height and depth,and to knowthe love of Christ whichsurpasses knowledge, that you may befilled to all thefullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19 NASB

The limit of God’s grace

“For the grace of God hasappeared,bringing salvation to all people, instructing us to deny ungodliness andworldly desires andto live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly mannerin the present age,looking for the blessed hope and theappearing of the glory ofour great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,” Titus 2:11-13 NASB

The limit of who God’s love and grace is for

“The sacrifice pleasing to God isa broken spirit. You will not despise a broken and humbled heart,” Psalm 51:17 CSB

“Now there was a man of the Pharisees, namedNicodemus, aruler of the Jews;this man came toJesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from Godasa teacher; for no one can do thesesigns that You do unlessGod is with him.”Jesus responded and said to him,“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someoneis bornagain he cannot seethe kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a person be born when he is old? He cannot enter his mother’s womb a second time and be born, can he?”Jesus answered,“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someone is born ofwater andthe Spirit, he cannot enterthe kingdom of God.That which has been born of the flesh is flesh, and that which has been born of the Spirit is spirit.Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be bornagain.’The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it is coming from and where it is going; so is everyone who has been born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus responded and said to Him, “How can these things be?”Jesus answered and said to him,*“You arethe teacher of Israel, andyetyou do not understand these things?Truly, truly, I say to you,we speak of what we know andtestify of what we have seen, andyoupeopledo not accept our testimony.If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?No one has ascended into heaven, exceptHe who descended from heaven:the Son of Man.And just asMoses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so mustthe Son of Manbe lifted up, so that everyone whobelieves willhave eternal life in Him. “For God soloved the world, that Hegave Hisonly Son, so that everyone whobelieves in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.For Goddid not send the Son into the worldto judge the world, but so that the world might be saved through Him.The one who believes in Him is not judged; the one who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of*the only Son of God.” John 3:1-18 NASB

Who needs to be born again?

The conditioned answer: They do

Jesus’ answer: We all do

What does it mean to be born again?

The conditioned answer: Getting my life together

Jesus’ answer: Getting a new life

New life = A new source, a new hope, a new outlook, a new heart

How can someone be born again?

The conditioned answer: From the outside in

Jesus’ answer: From the inside out

“And this is the judgment, thatthe Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the Light; fortheir deeds were evil.For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light, so that his deeds will not be exposed.But the one whopractices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds will be revealedas having been performed in God.” John 3:19-21

“Now on one ofthosedaysJesus and His disciples got into a boat, and He said to them,“Let’s cross over to the other side ofthe lake.”So they launched out.But as they were sailing along He fell asleep; and a fierce gale of wind descended onthe lake, and theybeganto be swamped and to be in danger.They came up toJesusand woke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And He got up andrebuked the wind and the surgingwaves, and they stopped, andit became calm.And He said to them,“Where is your faith?”But they were fearful and amazed, saying to one another, “Who then is this, that He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey Him?” Luke 8:22-25 NASB

How To Question Our Fears

Ask Jesus “Who are You?”

“ I AM theimage of theinvisible God, thefirstborn of all creation:forby ME all things were created,bothin the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whetherthrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through ME and for ME.I AMbefore all things, and in ME all thingshold together.I AM also thehead ofthe body, the church; and I AM the beginning,the firstborn from the dead, so that I Myself will come to have first place in everything.Forit wasMYFather’sgood pleasure for allthefullness to dwell in ME,and through ME toreconcile all things to Myself,whether things on earth or things inheaven, having madepeace throughthe blood of MY cross.” Colossians 1:15-20 NASB

Ask Jesus “are You with me and in me?”

“On that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I in you.” John 14:20 NASB

Ask Jesus “Are You afraid?”

“…as they were sailing along He fell asleep; and a fierce gale of wind descended onthe lake, and theybeganto be swamped and to be in danger.They came up toJesusand woke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And He got up andrebuked the wind and the surgingwaves, and they stopped, andit became calm. Luke 8:23-24

Ask Jesus “What or whom shall I fear?”

“He said to them, “It is I;do not be afraid.” John 6:20 NASB

“TheLordis my lightand my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 NIV

“In those days, when there was again a large crowd and they had nothing to eat, Jesus summoned His disciples and said to them, “I feel compassion for the people because they have remained with Me for three days already and have nothing to eat. And if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way; and some of them have come from a great distance.” And His disciples replied to Him, “Where will anyone be able to find enough bread here in this desolate place to satisfy these people?” And He was asking them, “How many loaves do you have?” And they said, “Seven.” And He directed the people to recline on the ground; and taking the seven loaves, He gave thanks and broke them, and started giving them to His disciples to serve, and they served them to the people. They also had a few small fish; and after He had blessed them, He told the disciples to serve these as well. And they ate and were satisfied; and they picked up seven large baskets full of what was left over of the broken pieces. About four thousand men were there; and He dismissed them.” Mark 8:1-9 NASB

“Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; the one who comes to Me will not be hungry, and the one who believes in Me will never be thirsty…For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:35,40 NASB

Assumption #1: God doesn’t care

“In those days, when there was again a large crowd and they had nothing to eat…” Mark 8:1 NASB

Reality #1: God is compassionate

“I feel compassion for the people because they have remained with Me for three days already and have nothing to eat.” Mark 8:2 NASB

Assumption #2: I am in an impossible situation

“Where will anyone be able to find enough bread here in this desolate place to satisfy these people?” Mark 8:4 NASB

Reality #2: Nothing is impossible with God

“And they ate and were satisfied; and they picked up seven large baskets full of what was left over of the broken pieces.” Mark 8:8 NASB

Assumption #3: I don’t have enough

“And He was asking them, “How many loaves do you have?” And they said, “Seven.” Mark 8:5 NASB

Reality #3: We are only asked to give what we have

“And He directed the people to recline on the ground; and taking the seven loaves, He gave thanks and broke them, and started giving them to His disciples to serve, and they served them to the people.” Mark 8:6 NASB

Why do we get stuck in our assumptions instead of living in the realities of the gospel?

“And the Pharisees came out and began to argue with Him, demanding from Him a sign from heaven, to test Him. Sighing deeply in His spirit, He said, “Why does this generation demand a sign? Truly I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation!” And leaving them, He again embarked and went away to the other side. And the disciples had forgotten to take bread, and did not have more than one loaf in the boat with them. And He was giving orders to them, saying, “Watch out! Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and the leaven of Herod.” And they began to discuss with one another the fact that they had no bread. And Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet comprehend or understand? Do you still have your heart hardened? Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember, when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces you picked up?” They said to Him, “Twelve.” “When I broke the seven for the four thousand, how many large baskets full of broken pieces did you pick up?” And they said to Him, “Seven.” And He was saying to them, “Do you not yet understand?” Mark 8:11-21 NASB

Three Signs of Unbelief

Searching for the sensational
An attitude of cynicism
A scarcity mindset

“The Pharisees gathered round Jesus, together with some legal experts from Jerusalem.They saw that some of his disciples were eating their food with unclean (that is, unwashed) hands. (The Pharisees, you see—and indeed all the Jews—don’t eat unless they first carefully wash their hands. This is to maintain the tradition of the elders.When they come in from the market, they never eat without washing. There are many other traditions which they observe: washings of cups, pots and bronze dishes.) Anyway, the Pharisees and legal experts asked Jesus, “Why don’t your disciples follow the tradition of the elders? Why do they eat their food with unwashed hands?” “Isaiah summed you up just right,” Jesus replied. “What hypocrites you are! What he said was this: With their lips this people honors me, but with their hearts they turn away from me; all in vain they think to worship me, all they teach is human commands. “You abandon God’s commands, and keep human tradition! “So,” he went on, “you have a fine way of setting aside God’s command so as to maintain your tradition.Here’s an example: Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Anyone who slanders father or mother should die.’But you say, ‘If someone says to their father or mother, “What you might get from me—it’s Korban!” ’ (which means, ‘given-to-God’),you don’t let them do anything else for their father or mother!The net result is that you invalidate God’s word through this tradition which you hand on. And there are lots more things like that which you do.” Jesus summoned the crowd again. “Listen to me, all of you,” he said, “and get this straight.15 What goes into you from outside can’t make you unclean. What makes you unclean is what comes out from inside.” When they got back into the house, away from the crowd, his disciples asked him about the parable.“You didn’t get it either?” he asked. “Don’t you see that whatever goes into someone from outside can’t make them unclean?It doesn’t go into the heart; it only goes into the stomach, and then carries on, out down the drain.” (Result: all foods are clean.)“What makes someone unclean,” he went on, “is what comes out of them.Evil intentions come from inside, out of people’s hearts—sexual immorality, theft, murder,adultery, greed, wickedness, treachery, debauchery, envy, slander, pride, stupidity.These evil things all come from inside. They are what make someone unclean.” Mark 7:1-23 NTFE

“Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God. Now, brothers and sisters, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, “Do not go beyond what is written.” Then you will not be puffed up in being a follower of one of us over against the other. For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?” 1 Corinthians 4:6-7 NIV

How To Not Go Beyond What Is Written

Ask the following question:

Is it a command or a tradition?

Is it a truth or a tradition?

Is it a guardrail or a tradition?

Is it a preference or tradition?

National divisions

Political divisions

Ideological divisions

Racial divisions

Relational divisions

Theological divisions

How To Live In A Divided World

Remember how important unity is to Jesus

“I pray not only for these followers but also for those who will believe in me because of their teaching.Father, I pray that all who believe in me can be one. You are in me and I am in you. I pray that they can also be one in us. Then the world will believe that you sent me.” John 17:20-21 ERV

Remember who and what is behind all divisions

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12 NASB 95

Remember to walk in the light

“For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son,” Colossians 1:13 NASB 95

“I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” John 8:12 NASB 95

Remember we are to love our enemies

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighborand hate your enemy.’But I say to you,love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” Matthew 5:43-44 NASB 95

Remember to find common ground

Acts 17:22-34

Remember we are to be peacemakers

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9 NASB 95

“Do the best you can to live in peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 ERV

“One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And one who rules his spirit, than one who captures a city.” Proverbs 16:32 NASB

Three Stages Of Anger

Basic Anger

“When you are angry, don’t let that anger make you sin,” and don’t stay angry all day.” Ephesians 4:26 ERV

“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19:11 ESV

Internal anger

“You heard that it was said to the ancient people, ‘You shall not murder’; and anyone who commits murder shall be liable to judgment.But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment…” Matthew 5:21-22a NTFE

Outward anger

“…anyone who uses foul and abusive language will be liable to the lawcourt; and anyone who says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to the fires of Gehenna.” Matthew 5:22b NTFE

When I am angry I need to

Recognizethe root of my anger

“People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.” Proverbs 14:29 NLT

Resist over reacting

“Afoolalways loses his temper, But a wise person holds it back.” Proverbs 29;11 NIV

Reject the urge for judgement and revenge

“A gentle answer makes anger disappear, but a rough answer makes it grow.” Proverbs 15:1 ERV

“Never repay evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all people. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:17-21 NASB

“When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” 1 Peter 2:23 NIV

“I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, that he may hear me. In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord; in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying; my soul refuses to be comforted.” Psalm 77:1-2 NRSV

“Why, my soul, are you downcast?Why so disturbed within me?Put your hope in God,for I will yet praise him,my Savior and my God.” Psalm 42:11 NIV

How To Deal With How You Feel

Identify the source of your feelings

“Why, my soul, are you downcast?”

Is it circumstantial?

B. Is it spiritual?

C. Is it physical?

Hold on to the lifeline of hope

“Put your hope in God…”

What is hope? Hope is the confident expectation of God’s faithfulness. Hope keeps our perspective straight.

“For we live by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV

“However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen,what no ear has heard,and what no human mind has conceived”—the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealedto us by his Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 NIV

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen,since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV

Process your feelings by talking them through

Why so disturbed within me?

Talk to Jesus and listen to Him

“This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” Matthew 17:5 NIV

B. Talk to a trusted friend

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16 KJV

C. Talk to yourself

“Christians spend to much time listening to themselves, when they should spend more time talking to themselves.” Martin Lloyd-Jones

Set your mind and heart on things above

“Therefore, if you have beenraised with Christ, keep seeking the thingsthat areabove, where Christ is,seated at the right hand of God.Set your minds on the thingsthat areabove, not on the things that are on earth.For you havedied, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3 NASB

“Then I sawa new heaven and a new earth; forthe first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longeranysea.And I sawthe holy city,new Jerusalem,coming down out of heaven from God,prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold,the tabernacle of God is among the people, and He willdwell among them, and they shall be Hispeople, and God Himself will be among them,and He willwipe away every tear from their eyes; andthere will no longer beanydeath;there will no longer beanymourning, or crying, or pain;the first things have passed away.” Revelation 2:1-4 NASB

“OLord, my heart is notproud, nor my eyeshaughty; Nor do I involve myself in great matters, Or in things too difficult for me. Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; Like a weaned child rests against his mother, My soul is like a weaned child within me. O Israel, hope in the Lord From this time forth and forever.” Psalm 131:1-3 NASB 95

How To Find Rest

Press into the source of rest

“Come to Me, allwho are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.Take My yoke upon you andlearn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, andyou will find rest for your souls.ForMy yoke iseasy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NASB

Practice the Sabbath principle

“Jesus said to them, “The Sabbathwas madefor man, andnot manfor the Sabbath.” Mark 2:27 NASB

Physical rest

Emotional rest

Spiritual rest

Relational connection

Practice being still

“Be still, and know that I am God…” Psalm 46:10 NIV

Practice being grateful

“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV

Practice being a servant

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 NASB

“…If you want to be first,” he said, “you must be last of all, and servant of all.” Mark 9:35 ERV

Pray for fresh vision in your current circumstances

“And whatever you do, in word or action, do everything in the name of the master, Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the father…Whatever you do, give it your very best, as if you were working for the Master and not for human beings.After all, you know that you’re going to receive the true inheritance from the Master as your reward! It is the Master, the Messiah, that you are serving.” Colossians 3:17, 23-24 NTFE

We were created out of relationship for relationship

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make mankind in Our image, according to Our likeness…So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them…Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone…’” Genesis 1:26a, 27 and 2:18 NASB

The result of sin is disconnection from God and from one another

“Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves waist coverings. Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” Genesis 3:7,8 NASB

Jesus came to undo the effects of sin and invite us into true life

“For if by the offense of the one, death reigned through the one, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.So then, as through one offense the result was condemnation to all mankind, so also through one act of righteousness the result was justification of life to all mankind.” Romans 5:17-18 NASB

The Kingdom of God advances through Christian community

“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles.And all the believers were together and had all things in common;and they would sell their property and possessions and share them with all, to the extent that anyone had need.Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart,praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47 NASB

What are the roadblocks to true community?

Connectivity
Idealism
Individualism
Intimidation

How do we find true community?

Commit to your community
Fully participate in your community

“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Acts 2:42 NASB

Be vulnerable with your community

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Matthew 5:6 NIV

If I Am Feeling Empty, I Need To

Be aware of what I am longing for

“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.” Isaiah 55:1-2 NIV

“You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.” Psalm 63:1 NIV

Be filled with the right things

“Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.” 1 John 5:21 NLT

Be filled with His love

“We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” 1 John 4:16 NASB 95

Be filled with the Spirit

“…be filled with the Spirit. Encourage each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord. Always give thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Be willing to serve each other out of respect for Christ.” Ephesians 5:18:21 ETRV

“The last day of the festival came. It was the most important day. On that day Jesus stood up and said loudly, “Whoever is thirsty may come to me and drink. If anyone believes in me, rivers of living water will flow out from their heart. That is what the Scriptures say.” Jesus was talking about the Spirit. The Spirit had not yet been given to people, because Jesus had not yet been raised to glory. But later, those who believed in Jesus would receive the Spirit.” John 7:37-39 ETRV

Be filled with purpose

“Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” Isaiah 43:7 ESV

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 NASB

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

How To Stand Up To The Bully Called Fear (1 Samuel 17)

“On hearing the Philistine’s words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.” 1 Samuel 17:11 NIV

Find out Who God says He is and what He has promised. (1 Samuel 13:13-14)

“I love you,Lord; you are my strength.TheLordis my rock, my fortress, and my savior;my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me,and my place of safety.I called on theLord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.” Psalm 18:1-3 NLT

“My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help.This I know: God is on my side! I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise theLordfor what he has promised.I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalm 56:9-11 NLT

Figure out who you should really fear. (1 Samuel 17:32)

“The fear of theLordis the beginning of wisdom;all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.” Psalm 111:10 NIV

“Fearof man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in theLordis kept safe.” Proverbs 29:25 NIV

“TheLordis my lightand my salvation—whom shall I fear? TheLordis the strongholdof my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 NIV

“So, my friends, I have this to say to you: don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more they can do.I will show you who to fear: fear the one who starts by killing and then has the right to throw people into Gehenna. Yes, let me tell you, that’s the one to fear!” Luke 12:4-5 NTFE

Work out your faith and courage muscles (1 Samuel 17:37)

“The Lordwho rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:37 NIV

Call out your biggest fear first (1 Samuel 17:45-47)

“…When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran.” 1 Samuel 17:51 NIV

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God andwealth.“For this reason I say to you,do not beworried about yourlife,as towhat you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body,as towhat you will put on. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing?Look at the birds of the sky, that they do not sow, nor reap, nor gathercropsinto barns, andyetyour heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more important than they?And which of you byworrying canadd a singleday to hislife’s span?And why are youworried about clothing? Notice how the lilies of the field grow; they do not labor nor do they spinthread for cloth,yet I say to you that not evenSolomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these.But if God so clothes thegrass of the field, which isalivetoday and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace,will Henot much moreclotheyou?You of little faith!Do notworry then, saying, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear for clothing?’For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; foryour heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.Butseek firstHis kingdom and His righteousness, andall these things will beprovided to you.“So do notworry about tomorrow; for tomorrow willworry about itself.Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:24-34 NASB

Worry: Trying to control the uncontrollable

According to Jesus worry is

Unreasonable (6:25)

Unnatural (6:26, 28-29)

Unhelpful(6:27)

Unnecessary (6:30)

How can I overcome worry?

Remember you are not an orphan (6:32)

“And my God will meet all your needsaccording to the riches of his gloryin Christ Jesus. To our God and Fatherbe glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Philippians 4:19-20 NIV

Put God first in every area of your life (6:31-33)
Take life one day at a time (6:34)
Trust that God really cares about every detail of your life (6:30)

“Let not your heart be troubled. You are trusting God, now trust in me.” John 14:1 LB

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 NIV

“Don’t worry about anything. Rather, in every area of life let God know what you want, as you pray and make requests, and give thanks as well.And God’s peace, which is greater than we can ever understand, will keep guard over your hearts and minds in Messiah Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NTFE

“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside asstrangers,scattered throughoutPontus,Galatia,Cappadocia,Asia, andBithynia,who are chosenaccording to theforeknowledge of God the Father,by the sanctifying work of the Spirit,toobey Jesus Christ and besprinkled with His blood:May grace and peace be multiplied to you.Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, whoaccording to His great mercyhas caused us to be born again toa living hope through theresurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,toobtainaninheritancewhich isimperishable, undefiled, andwill not fade away,reserved in heaven for you,who areprotected by the power of Godthrough faith fora salvation readyto be revealed inthelast time.In this you greatly rejoice, even though nowfor a little while,if necessary, you have been distressed byvarioustrials,so that theproof of your faith,beingmore precious than gold which perishesthough tested by fire,may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor atthe revelation of Jesus Christ;andthough you have not seen Him, youlove Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible andfull of glory,obtaining asthe outcome of your faith, the salvation ofyour souls.” 1 Peter 1:1-9 NASB

What is the cure for hopelessness? The resurrection of Jesus Christ, our living hope

Living Hope: The confident expectation of God’s faithfulness to His promises

The resurrection provides

Hope for the past

“Jesus was handed over to die for our sins, and he was raised from death to make us right with God.” Romans 4:25 ERV

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 NASB

Hope for the present

“We have been made right with God because of our faith. So we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.Through our faith, Christ has brought us into that blessing of God’s grace that we now enjoy. And we are very happy because of the hope we have of sharing God’s glory.And we are also happy with the troubles we have. Why are we happy with troubles? Because we know that these troubles make us more patient.And this patience is proof that we are strong. And this proof gives us hope.And this hope will never disappoint us. We know this because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts through the Holy Spirit he gave us.” Romans 5:1-5 ERV

“I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” John 16:33 ERV

Hope for the future

“Jesus said to her,“I amthe resurrection and the life.The one who believesin me will live, even though they die;and whoever lives by believingin me will never die.Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 NIV

“Beloved, now we arechildren of God, andit has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when Heappears, we will belike Him, because we willsee Him just as He is.And everyone who has thishopeseton Himpurifies himself, just as He is pure.” 1 John 3:2-3 NASB

Heavenly Father, thank you for Your love for me. Thank You for demonstrating that love, in the life, death, and resurrection of Your One and Only Son. Jesus, thank you for what You did for me through the cross. Today, I am trusting in You. I put my hope in You for forgiveness from my past and future failures. I put my hope in You for the present. I look to You to lead and guide my life through the power and strength that only You can give. I agree with You that You are my Savior and my Lord. I put my hope in You for the future, that I have a living hope, that will lead me from this life into eternal life with You forever. Holy Spirit, thank You that You dwell in me and that You are the presence of Jesus with me at all times. Holy Spirit You raised Jesus from the dead. And I believe that the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in me. Help me to live my life in Your power and joy. In Jesus name Amen.

Pastor Kim Skattum

“Forby grace you have been savedthrough faith. And this isnot your own doing;it is the gift of God,not a result of works,so that no one may boast.Forwe are his workmanship,created in Christ Jesusfor good works,which God prepared beforehand,that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:8-10 ESV

“ButGod, beingrich in mercy,because of the great love with which he loved us,evenwhen we were dead in our trespasses,made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him andseated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:4-6 ESV

“This is the third time that I am coming to you. On the testimony of two or three witnesses every matter shall be confirmed. I have previously said when I was present the second time, and though now absent I say in advance to those who have sinned in the past and to all the rest as well, that if I come again I willnot spare anyone, since you are seeking proof of the Christ who speaks in me, who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you. For indeed He was crucified because of weakness, yet He lives because of the power of God. For we too are weak in Him, yet we will live with Him because of the power of God directed toward you.” 2 Corinthians 13:1-4 NASB

“Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you—unless indeed you fail the test? But I expect that you will realize that we ourselves do not fail the test. Now we pray to God that you do nothing wrong; not so that we ourselves may appear approved, but that you may do what is right, though we may appear unapproved. For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. For we rejoice when we ourselves are weak, but you are strong; this we also pray for, that you become mature. For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that when present I need not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down.” 2 Corinthians 13:5-10 NASB

“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice, mend your ways, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.Greet one another with a holy kiss.All the saints greet you.The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all.” 2 Corinthians 13:11-14 NASB

“Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay, that Jesus Christ is in you. Test it out. If you fail the test, do something about it.” 2 Corinthians 13:5 MSG

Begin with Jesus

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9 NASB

“No one who has been born of God practices sin, because His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin continually, because he has been born of God…The one who keeps His commandments remains in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He remains in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us.” 1 John 3:9,24 NASB

Participate with the Spirit

“…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;for it is God who is at work in you, both to desire and to work for His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:12b,13 NASB

“For the one who sows to his own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit.” Galatians 6:8 NASB

Rest in the assurance of God’s love

“My sheep listen to My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” John 10:27-30 NASB

“For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39 NASB

A heavenly vision

“Boasting is necessary, though it is not beneficial; but I will go on to visions andrevelationsof the Lord.I know a manin Christ, who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or out of the body I do not know,God knows—such a man wascaught up to thethird heaven.And I know how such a man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know,God knows—wascaught up intoParadise and heard inexpressible words, which a man is not permitted to speak.In behalf of such a man I will boast; but in my own behalf I will not boast, except regardingmy weaknesses.For if I do wish to boast I will not befoolish,for I will be speaking the truth; but I refrainfrom this, so that no one will credit me with more than he seesinme or hears from me.” 2 Corinthians 12:1-6 NASB

A thorn in the flesh

“Because of the extraordinarygreatnessof therevelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given to me athorn in the flesh, amessenger of Satan totorment me—to keep me from exalting myself!Concerning this I pleaded with the Lordthree times that it might leave me.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-8 NASB

A sufficient grace and power

“And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in distresses, in persecutions, in difficulties, in behalf of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NASB

“I wish that you wouldbear with me in a littlefoolishness; butindeed you are bearing with me.For I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy; for Ibetrothed you to one husband, topresent youasa pure virgin to Christ.But I am afraid that, as theserpent deceived Eve by his trickery, your minds will be led astray from sincere and pure devotion to Christ.For ifone comes and preachesanother Jesus whom we have not preached, or you receive adifferent spirit which you have not received, or adifferent gospel which you have not accepted,thisyoutolerateverywell!” 2 Corinthians 11:1-4 NASB

What Is Discernment?

Discernment is the ability to distinguish right from wrong, good from evil, wisdom from foolishness, and truth from error
Discernment is a spiritual gift

“…the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit…” 1 Corinthians 12:10 NLT

Why Is Discernment Important?

Because failure to have discernment has consequences

Adam and Eve were “led astray” by the deception of the serpent. (See Genesis 3)

Because deception starts subtly in the mind

“But I am afraid that, as theserpent deceived Eve by his trickery, your minds will be led astray from sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 11:3 NASB

How Can I Walk In Discernment?

I need to have a conviction that God is good and knows what is best

“Teach me gooddiscernment and knowledge, For I believe in Your commandments.” Psalm 119:66 NASB

I need to follow the right Jesus. Vs. 4

“…A different Jesus.”

I need to understand the real Gospel

“…adifferent gospel.”

I need to walk in the Spirit by abiding in Jesus

“But I say,walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry outthe desire of the flesh.Forthe desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another,in order to keep you from doing whatever you want.” Galatians 5:16-17 NASB

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruitof itself unless it abides in the vine, so neithercanyou unless you abide in Me.I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, hebears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 NASB 95

To Live As A Victor I Need To

Respond to critics like Jesus

“Now I, Paul, myself urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—I who am meek when face to face with you, but bold toward you when absent!” 2 Corinthians 10:1 NASB

Remember we are still in a fight

“I ask that when I am present I need not be bold with the confidence with which I intend to be courageous against some, who regard us as if we walked according to the flesh. For though we walk in the flesh, we do not wage battle according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.” 2 Corinthians 10:2-6 NASB

Rely on humility

“You are looking at things as they are outwardly. If anyone is confident in himself that he is Christ’s, have him consider this again within himself, that just as he is Christ’s, so too are we. For if I boast somewhat more about our authority, which the Lord gave for building you up and not for destroying you, I will not be put to shame, for I do not want to seem as if I would terrify you by my letters. For they say, “His letters are weighty and strong, but his personal presence is unimpressive and his speech contemptible.” Have such a person consider this, that what we are in word by letters when absent, such persons we are also in deed when present. For we do not presume to rank or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they have no understanding. But we will not boast beyond our measure, but within the measure of the domain which God assigned to us as a measure, to reach even as far as you. For we are not overextending ourselves, as if we did not reach to you, for we were the first to come even as far as you in the gospel of Christ; not boasting beyond our measure, that is, in other people’s labors, but with the hope that as your faith grows, we will be, within our domain, enlarged even more by you, so as to preach the gospel even to the regions beyond you, and not to boast in what has been accomplished in the domain of another. But the one who boasts is to boast in the Lord. For it is not the one who commends himself that is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” 2 Corinthians 10:7-18 NASB

Galatians 6:2
Hebrews 13:16
1 Timothy 6:17-19

Biblical Generosity Is Not Just A Command – It Is A Promise

“The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Galatians 3:26-29 NIV

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

Biblical Generosity Is Not Circumstantial – it should be intentional and consistent

Luke 10:25-37

“On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” 1 Corinthians 16:2 NIV

Biblical Generosity Is Not Measured By Quantity – it is measured by quality (sacrifice)

“For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.” 2 Corinthains 8:12

Biblical Generosity Is Not Just For Today – it is for eternity

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” 1 Timothy6:17-19

“Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. Please open your hearts to us. We have not done wrong to anyone, nor led anyone astray, nor taken advantage of anyone. I’m not saying… Read More »The Promise of Tears

“Blessed is a person who finds wisdom, And one who obtains understanding.” Proverbs 3:13 NASB Wisdom is knowledge with understanding. Wisdom is interpreting life from God’s perspective. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; All those who follow His commandments have a good understanding; His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 NASB “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,… Read More »The Promise of Wisdom

For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died;and He died for all, so that those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose on their behalf. Therefore from now on we recognize no one by the flesh; even though we have known… Read More »The Promise of Reconciliation

2 Corinthians 4 How Can I Pursue The Promise Of Glory Without Losing My Soul? “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We… Read More »The Promise of Glory

“And it came about, when Moses was coming down from Mount Sinai (and the two tablets of the testimony were in Moses’ hand as he was coming down from the mountain), that Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because of his speaking with Him. So when Aaron and all the sons of Israel saw Moses,… Read More »The Promise of Freedom

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV

Pastor George Morrison Hope’s Answer (“We had hoped…”) “That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them.… Read More »Hope for a New Year

“How lovely are Your tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! My soul yearns, yes, even pines and is homesick for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out and sing for joy to the living God.” Psalm 84:1-2 AMP “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no… Read More »Home For Christmas

“Now all this took place so that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet would be fulfilled: “Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and they shall name Him Immanuel,” which translated means, “God with us.” Matthew 1:22-23 NASB “The next day he saw Jesus coming to him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes… Read More »Beholding Christmas

• The blessing that UNITY brings “Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another, according to Christ Jesus, so that with one purpose and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5–6 NASB2020 • The… Read More »Blessings

Romans 14 “Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not to have quarrels over opinions. One person has faith that he may eat all things, but the one who is weak eats only vegetables. The one who eats is not to regard with contempt the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat is not to judge the one who eats,… Read More »Guidelines, Guardrails, and Getting Along

“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ…” Philippians 3:20 NASB Romans 13 How Should My Heavenly Citizenship Direct How I Live In My Earthly Citizenship? “Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God’s order. So live… Read More »Dual Citizenship

How Does The Gospel Transform Our Lives? “Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that… Read More »Transformed

Romans 11 “I say then, God has not rejected His people, has He? Far from it! For I too am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew.” Romans 11:1-2a NASB “I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations as an everlasting covenant, to… Read More »Our Roots and His Covenant

What Is It Going To Take To Fulfill Your Life Mission And The Mission Of The Church? “Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. For not knowing about God’s righteousness and seeking to establish their… Read More »Our Roots and Our Mission

“…salvation is from the Jews.” Jesus in John 4:22 The calling of the Hebrew people “I am telling the truth in Christ, I am not lying; my conscience testifies with me in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and unceasing grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed, separated from Christ for the sake of… Read More »Our Roots and Our Salvation

How can we face suffering without losing hope? 1. Develop a better vision for the future “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18 NASB 2. Recognize the tension between our present reality and God’s… Read More »Be Free: Pursuing Life in the Spirit Part 2

“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, so that He may be with you forever; the Helper is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him; but you know Him because He remains with you and will be in you.… Read More »Be Free: Pursuing Life in the Spirit Part 1

The battle “I can anticipate the response that is coming: “I know that all God’s commands are spiritual, but I’m not. Isn’t this also your experience?” Yes. I’m full of myself—after all, I’ve spent a long time in sin’s prison. What I don’t understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I… Read More »Winning the Battle Within

“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? Far from it! How shall we who died to sin still live in it?” Romans 6:1-2 NASB To Walk The Road To Wholeness I need to know my union with Christ “Or do you not know that all of us who have… Read More »The Road to Wholeness

Jesus justifies us “Therefore, having been justified by faith,” Romans 5:1a NASB Jesus is our peace “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,” Romans 5:1b NASB Jesus is our hope “through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope… Read More »What Jesus Means For Us

“For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from works of the Law.” Romans 3:28 NASB What is the Good News? Jesus did for us what we could never do for ourselves. “He who was delivered over because of our wrong doings, and was raised because of our justification.” Romans 4:25 NASB What Is Our Response To… Read More »Have You Heard the News? Part 2

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written: “But the righteous one will live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17 NASB What is the bad news? Universal guilt… Read More »Have You Heard the News? Part 1

The Creation Mandate

“Then God said, “Let Us make mankind in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the livestock and over all the earth, and over every crawling thing that crawls on the earth.” So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:26-28 NASB

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Edento work it and take care of it.” Genesis 2:15 NIV

The Curse

“To the woman he said, “I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with painful labor you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.” To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat from it,’ “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.” Genesis 3:16-19 NIV

“So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind…So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun. For a person may labor with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then they must leave all they own to another who has not toiled for it. This too is meaningless and a great misfortune. What do people get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labor under the sun? All their days their work is grief and pain; even at night their minds do not rest. This too is meaningless. Ecclesiastes 2:17,20-23 NIV

The Cure

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. Romans 5:17-18 NIV

The Conclusion

I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. Revelation 21:22-25 NIV

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever. Revelation 22:1-5 NIV

How do we face Mondays?

Stop categorizing the sacred vs. the secular.

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 NIV

View your work as unto Jesus.

“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…” Colossians 3:22-23 NIV

Look forward to your reward.

“…since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:24

(See also Matt 25/Luke 19)

“I, John, your brother and fellow participant in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” Revelation 1:9 NASB How NOT To Read Revelation • Don’t read to much of our modern world into it • Don’t get… Read More »How to Read the Book of Revelation

Question: Who is God? Answer: God is an eternal relationship between the Father and the Son, through the Holy Spirit. Question: What is God like? Answer: God is like the life we see revealed in Jesus Christ. “No one has seen God at any time; God the only Son, who is in the arms of the Father, He has explained Him.” John… Read More »Life, Light, and Love

“Dear friends, this is now the second letter I have written to you; in both letters, I want to stir up your sincere understanding by way of reminder, so that you recall the words previously spoken by the holy prophets and the command of our Lord and Savior given through your apostles.” 2 Peter 3:1-2 CSB “ Therefore I… Read More »Because of Jesus

1 Peter 1:1-9 The antidote to discouragement, defeat, and despair is HOPE Hope is having confidence in Jesus’ FAITHFULNESS to HIS WORD To daily live in hope I need to remember four truths This world is NOT OUR HOME “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and… Read More »You Are Not Hopeless

Authentic faith PERSEVERES and MATURES through trials and tests “Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing…Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the… Read More »Pursuing Authentic Faith

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 NASB You FOLLOW whom you listen to “God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the world. And He is the radiance… Read More »The Hearts of Hebrews

“Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I always thank my God as I remember you in my… Read More »Becoming a Peacemaker

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people,instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify… Read More »The Favor of God

“ For God has not given us a spirit of timidity (fear), but of power and love and discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NASB Resist the fear of death “…God, who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was granted to us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but has now been revealed by… Read More »Resisting Fear

Six instructions to the Church from the Apostle Paul Fight the RIGHT fight “Timothy, my son, I am giving you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies previously made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the good fight,” 1 Timothy 1:18 CSB PRAY for everyone “First of all, then, I urge that… Read More »Follow the Instructions

Special guest Mark Johnson with us today for a Father’s Day sermon

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10 NLT “It is finished.” Jesus from the cross (John 19:30) “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and… Read More »It Is Finished but We are not

“HEALTHY SPIRITUAL LIVING”

Colossians 3:1 “Since then….” DO THIS

“Set your hearts and minds on Christ” – Colossians 3:1-2 NIV

“Put to death whatever belongs to your earthly nature ” – Colossians 3:5-7 NIV

Two important reasons that this exhortation is made by Paul

Sinful THOUGHTS can pollute our own hearts and minds

“Rid yourself of such things” – Colossians 3:8 NIV

Sinful ACTIONS can hurt someone else and cause us to distance ourselves from God

“Plank Syndrome”

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” – Matthew 7:3-5 NIV

The antidote to the “Plank Syndrome”

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12 NIV

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13 NIV

If we are to bear with one another, we must

Realize the effects of our sin on others
Realize the effects of other’s sin on us
Be prepared to forgive as the Lord forgave us

“… you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” – Colossians 3:9b

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15 NIV

“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:1-11 NIV

How To Pursue Joyful Relationships

Be GRATEFUL for them

“I thank my God every time I remember you” (Vs.3)

The longer you know someone

The more you take them for granted

The more you focus on their faults

The easier it becomes to build resentment

Gratefulness in relationships is a choice to remember the good things about them and to focus on the good times you have had.

Be PRAYERFUL for them

“In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy” (Vs. 4)

Pray for them rather than complaining about them
The quickest way to change a bad relationship is to start praying for them

What Paul prayed

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God” (Vs. 9-11)

Pray for your relationships too

Will grow in love (Vs.9)

Will make wise choices (Vs.9b-10a)

Will live with integrity (Vs.10b)

Will become like Jesus (Vs.11)

BELIEVE the best about them

“…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Vs. 6)

Lead them to a God-centered confidence

Remind yourself and them of their potential

Exercise patience with them

Believe that you can love them like JESUS DOES

“It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart…God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus” (Vs. 7-8)

Love with your heart rather than your head (If people are not on your heart they will get on your nerves)

“God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Romans 5:5 NIV

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” 1 John 3:16 NIV

Things looked bleak for Noah, “But God remembered him.” (Genesis 8:1)

Joseph’s life was filled with betrayals, “But God turned what they meant for evil, for good.” (Genesis 50:20)

King Saul intended on killing David, “But God did not give David into his hands.” (1 Samuel 23:14)

Jonah was in the belly of a whale, “But God brought his life up from the pit.” (Jonah 2:6)

With man things are not possible, “But with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)

No one has ever seen God, “But God the Son has made Him known.” (John 1:18)

Jesus was put to death by wicked men, “But God raised Him for our salvation.” (Acts 2:24)

We were on the path to self-destruction, BUT GOD changed our DIRECTION

“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins,in which you used to livewhen you followed the ways of this worldand of the ruler of the kingdom of the air,the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.All of us also lived among them at one time,gratifying the cravings of our fleshand following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.”Ephesians 2:1-3 NIV

We used to be lost trying to find out who we are, BUT GOD gave us a NEW and TRUE IDENTITY

“But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much,that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!)For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-7 NLT

“Sin is me trying to sit in God’s seat; the gospel is Jesus sat in my seat so I could sit in His.” Unknown

We used to work hard for God to accept us, BUT GOD has changed how we RELATE to HIM

“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Vs. 8-9

We were on a search for purpose and significance, BUT GOD has given us real PURPOSE and SIGNIFICANCE

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Vs.10

“For freedom, Christ set us free. Stand firm then and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 CSB

“Paul, an apostle (not sent from men nor through the agency of man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead),and all the brethren who are with me, To the churches of Galatia: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen.

I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel; which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! As we have said before, so I say again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed! For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:1-10 NASB 95

How do I get set free from the prison of SELF?

I choose to come under the Authority of Jesus Christ

Paul,an apostle—not from men or by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Fatherwho raised him from the dead—and all the brothers who are with me:

To the churches of Galatia. Vs. 1-2

“Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together. Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So he is first in everything. For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross.” Colossians 1:15-20 NLT

How do get set free from the prison of GUILT and SHAME?

I Trust in the Finished work of Jesus Christ

“Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our LordJesus Christ,who gave himself for our sinsto rescue us from this present evil age,according to the will of our God and Father.To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” Vs. 3-5

How do I get set free from the prison of FALSE BELIEFS?

I Reject false gospels and get immersed in the real gospel.

“I am amazed that you are so quickly turning away from him who calledyou by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another gospel,but there are somewho are troubling you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.But even if we or an angelfrom heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you,a curse be on him!As we have said before, I now say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received,a curse be on him! Vs. 6-9

How do I get set free from the prison of PEOPLE PLEASING?

I Choose to please God over pleasing man

“For am I now trying to persuade people,or God?Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Vs.10

“Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” Proverbs 29:25 NLT

“For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 NIV

We have a new REALITY.

The gospel challenges our VALUES, changes our CENTER, and corrects our VIEW OF OTHER PEOPLE.

“For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view.” 2 Corinthians 5:14-16

We have a new IDENTITY

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17

Our ALLEGIANCE to Jesus defines us, not our failure or success
Our new self is the work of THE SPIRIT.

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.” Ezekiel 36:26-27 NIV

We PARTICIPATE with the Spirit by putting on the new self

“You learned Christ! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything—and I do mean everything—connected with that old way of life has to go. It’s rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life—a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.” Ephesians 4:20-24 (MSG)

We have a new PURPOSE

“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-2

“Paul,calledasan apostle of Jesus Christbythe will of God, andSosthenes ourbrother, Tothe church of God which is atCorinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus,saintsby calling, with all who in every placecall on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, theirLordand ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thankmy God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus,that in everything you wereenriched in Him, in allspeech andall knowledge,even asthe testimony concerning Christ was confirmedin you,so that you are not lacking in any gift,awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ,who will also confirm you to the end, blameless inthe day of our Lord Jesus Christ.God is faithful, through whom you werecalled intofellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 NASB 95

The Church is PEOPLE not a building or institution.

“Tothe church of God which is atCorinth to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus,saintsby calling, with all who in every placecall on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, theirLordand ours.”Vs.2

Ekklesia: A people called out from the system of this world and called into the way of the kingdom of God. An assembly of called out ones.

“For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.” Matthew 18:20 NASB 95

“Do you not know thatyou are atemple of God andthatthe Spirit of God dwells in you?” 1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB 95

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?” 1 Corinthians 6:19 NASB 95

The Church is CHRIST’S not ours nor anyone else’s.

“I will build MY Church.” Jesus (Matthew 16:18)

The Church is a PORTRAIT of His grace.

“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thankmy God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus,that in everything you wereenriched in Him, in allspeech andall knowledge,even asthe testimony concerning Christ was confirmedin you,so that you are not lacking in any gift,awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ,who will also confirm you to the end, blameless inthe day of our Lord Jesus Christ.God is faithful, through whom you werecalled intofellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” Vs. 3-9

The Church is IMPERFECT PEOPLE being transformed by a perfect Savior.

“Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 NASB 95

“In face of all this, what is there left to say? If God is for us, who can be against us? He that did not hesitate to spare his own Son but gave him up for us all—can we not trust such a God to give us, with him, everything else that we can need? Who would dare to accuse us, whom God has chosen? The judge himself has declared us free from sin. Who is in a position to condemn? Only Christ, and Christ died for us, Christ rose for us, Christ reigns in power for us, Christ prays for us! Can anything separate us from the love of Christ? Can trouble, pain or persecution? Can lack of clothes and food, danger to life and limb, the threat of force of arms? Indeed some of us know the truth of the ancient text: ‘For your sake we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter”. No, in all these things we win an overwhelming victory through him who has proved his love for us. I have become absolutely convinced that neither death nor life, neither messenger of Heaven nor monarch of earth, neither what happens today nor what may happen tomorrow, neither a power from on high nor a power from below, nor anything else in God’s whole world has any power to separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ our Lord!” Romans 8:31-38 Philipps translation

Because His Grace Is Enough, We Can Count On Five Things

We can count on His power.

If God is for us, who can be against us? Vs 31

We can count on His provision.

“He that did not hesitate to spare his own Son but gave him up for us all—can we not trust such a God to give us, with him, everything else that we can need?” Vs 32

We can count on His protection.

“Who would dare to accuse us, whom God has chosen? The judge himself has declared us free from sin.” Vs 33

We can count on His pardon.

“Who is in a position to condemn? Only Christ, and Christ died for us, Christ rose for us, Christ reigns in power for us, Christ prays for us!” Vs 34

We can count on His presence.

“Can anything separate us from the love of Christ? Can trouble, pain or persecution? Can lack of clothes and food, danger to life and limb, the threat of force of arms? Indeed some of us know the truth of the ancient text: ‘For your sake we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter”. No, in all these things we win an overwhelming victory through him who has proved his love for us. I have become absolutely convinced that neither death nor life, neither messenger of Heaven nor monarch of earth, neither what happens today nor what may happen tomorrow, neither a power from on high nor a power from below, nor anything else in God’s whole world has any power to separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ our Lord!” Vs 35-38

When you fail remember

God loves you more than you can imagine, even when you fail

Forgiving yourself may be the most difficult thing

The best days of your life may be after the failure…not before…if you allow God to shape the rest of your story

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.” Peter said, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.” But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” Luke 22:31-34 NLT

Failure is an event that should cause remorse but does not have to be a destiny
Peter failed at Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16:13-28)
Peter failed at the last supper (John 13:6-11)
Peter failed at Jesus’ arrest (John 18:10-11)
Peter failed in the courtyard (Luke 22:47-62)
Peter was restored by Jesus (Mark 16:7, John 21)
Peter was re-commissioned by Jesus and brought thousands to Him (Acts 2:14-41)
Failure is remedied by repentance

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

Condemnation
Conviction
Consequences
Failure is Jesus’ platform to display the glory of restoration

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.” John 21:15-17 NIV

Failure is God’s opportunity to redeem the bad for good

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 NIV

“…when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:32

“Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. It is this Good News that saves you if you continue to believe the message I told you—unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place. I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him. For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I’m not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God’s church.” 1 Corinthians 15:1-9 NLT

Three days means we have a Living Savior.

“And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless.” 1 Corinthians 15:14 NLT

The Claims of Jesus

He claimed to be God

“They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.” John 10:33 NLT

He claimed He would rise from the dead

“For as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights.” Matthew 12:40 NLT

“Jesus replied. “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” John 2:19 NLT

“Then Jesus began to tell them that the Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead.” Mark 8:31 NLT

The Evidence

The legal evidence
The historical evidence
The experiential evidence
Three days means we have a living hope

“Unless Christ was raised to life, your faith is useless, and you are still living in your sins.And those people who died after putting their faith in him are completely lost.If our hope in Christ is good only for this life, we are worse off than anyone else. But Christ has been raised to life! And he makes us certain that others will also be raised to life. Just as we will die because of Adam, we will be raised to life because of Christ. Adam brought death to all of us, and Christ will bring life to all of us. But we must each wait our turn. Christ was the first to be raised to life, and his people will be raised to life when he returns.” 1 Corinthians 15:17-23 CEV

Three days means we have a full life to live now

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV

“The best is yet to come, so give Him your best now.” Warren Wiersbe

“For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. When you came to Christ, you were “circumcised,” but not by a physical procedure. Christ performed a spiritual circumcision—the cutting away of your sinful nature. For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead. You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.” Colossians 2:9-15 NLT

Nail #1 The Power of DEATH was defeated and was nailed to the cross.

“For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.” VS 12

“He has savedus and calledus to a holy life—not because of anything we have donebut because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,but it has now been revealedthrough the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus,who has destroyed deathand has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” 2 Timothy 1:9-10 NIV

“Since the children have flesh and blood,he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the powerof him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fearof death.” Hebrews 2:14-15 NIV

Nail #2 The power of GUILT and SHAME was defeated and nailed to the cross.

“You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.” VS 13-14

“God went for the jugular when he sent his own Son. He didn’t deal with the problem as something remote and unimportant. In his Son, Jesus, he personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all. The law code, weakened as it always was by fractured human nature, could never have done that.” Romans 8:3 MSG

Nail #3 The power of THE EVIL ONE was defeated and nailed to the cross.

“In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.” VS 15

“The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8 NASB 95

Fact: John 17 is the longest recorded prayer of Jesus

Two parts in John 17

Jesus prays for himself
Jesus prays for the disciples and for future believers
Where does the miracle working power and sinless self-control that Jesus incarnate possessed come from?
Do you accept Jesus’ teachings?

Jesus asks God for these things on our behalf

For God’s PROTECTION by the power of the name of Jesus

“Holy Father, protect them by the power ofyour name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one. While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe bythat name you gave me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled.” – John 17:11-12 NIV

For the full measure of Jesus’ JOY to be in us

“I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.” – John 17:13 NIV

“The world hated them… for they are not of the world” – John 17:14 NIV

QUESTION: Should we always be liked?

That God not take His disciples out of the world. But that He protect us from evil

“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” – John 17:15 NIV

NOTE: He affirms that we are to be SET APART – John 17:16 NIV

That God SANCTIFY us by the truth (the word)

“Sanctify them bythe truth; your word is truth.” – John 17:17 NIV

That we would be UNITED

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” – John 17:20-23 NIV

That we would BE IN HEAVEN

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.” – John 17:24 NIV

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.” John 15:1-10 ESV

The Vine is Jesus

The Vinedresser (Grape farmer) is the Father

The Branch is us

The fruit represents the Holy Spirit’s activity in our lives both in forming our character and in doing what Jesus wants us to do.

What does it mean to “Abide” in Jesus?

To abide in Him means to stay connected to Jesus by maintaining a living active relationship with Him
To stay connected means living moment by moment, trusting Him to meet all your needs and be your deepest treasure.

How do we stay connected to Jesus?

Focus the best of your attention and affections on Him

“Abide in me, and I in you” Vs. 4

Forget trying to do life without Him

“…for apart from me you can do nothing.” Vs 5

Flame your heart with His word

“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Vs. 7

Find your identity in His love for you

“…Abide in my love.” Vs. 9

Follow His instructions

“If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.” Vs. 10

“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT

Lessons from the Upper Room on imitating Jesus

• The Servant Principle (John 13:5-15)

“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.” John 13:13-15 NLT

• The Love Principle

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35 NLT

• The Trust Principle

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.” John 14:1 NASB 95

• The Prayer Principle

“You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!” John 14:13-14 NLT

• The Obedience Principle

“If you love me, obey my commandments.” John 14:15 NLT

“Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” John 14:21 NLT

• The Helper Principle

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” John 14:26 NASB 95

• The Peace Principle

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” John 14:27 NASB 95

“He began to teach againby the sea. And such a very large crowd gathered to Him thatHe got into a boat in the sea and sat down; and the whole crowd was by the sea on the land.And He was teaching them many things inparables, and was saying to them in His teaching,“Listento this! Behold, the sower went out to sow;as he was sowing, someseedfell beside the road, and the birds came and ate it up.Otherseedfell on the rockygroundwhere it did not have much soil; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of soil.And after the sun had risen, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.Otherseedfell among the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked it, and it yielded no crop.Otherseedsfell into the good soil, and as they grew up and increased, they yielded a crop and produced thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.”And He was saying,“He who has ears to hear,let him hear… And He said to them,“Do you not understand this parable? How will you understand all the parables?The sower sows the word.These are the ones who are beside the road where the word is sown; and when they hear, immediatelySatan comes and takes away the word which has been sown in them.In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rockyplaces, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy;and they have nofirmroot in themselves, but areonlytemporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately theyfall away.And others are the ones on whom seed was sown among the thorns; these are the ones who have heard the word,but the worries oftheworld, and thedeceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.And those are the ones on whom seed was sown on the good soil; and they hear the word and accept it andbear fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.” Mark 4:1-9, 13-20 NASB 95

Jesus is the sower

His words are the seed

Our hearts are the soil

Soil Preparation

We need to understand the types of soil and what they represent for our hearts in this parable. Additionally, how we can help others become good soil.

Soil #1 The Path

The Problem: Misplaced purpose

The Solution: Soil preparation

Soil #2 The Rocky Places

The Problem: Misplaced faith

The Solution: Rock removal

Soil #3 The thorny places

The Problem: Misplaced hope

The Solution: Weed pulling

Soil #4

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24 NASB95

Hears the word

Accepts the word

Embraces the word

“I am the true vine, and My Father is thevinedresser.Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and everybranchthat bears fruit, Heprunes it so that it may bear more fruit.You are alreadyclean because of the word which I have spoken to you.Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruitof itself unless it abides in the vine, so neithercanyou unless you abide in Me.” John 15:1-4 NASB 95

“Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach.This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them!”…Jesus told them this story:“A man had two sons.The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons. “A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living.About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve.He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs.The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything. “When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger!18 I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you,and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’ “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’ “But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet.And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast,for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began. “Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house,and he asked one of the servants what was going on.‘Your brother is back,’ he was told, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.’ “The older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in. His father came out and begged him,but he replied, ‘All these years I’ve slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends.Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!’ “His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours.We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’” Luke 15:1-2, 11-32 NLT

What does Jesus want us to learn from this parable?

He wants to change my concept of God
Our concept of God has been shaped by our own experiences and the influences of others
Jesus is describing God in a way that was new to His audience
He wants to change how I relate to God

Two sons: The younger and the older

Two perspectives: Self-centered and Self righteous

Two approaches: Reckless and Religious

One mistake: Neither of them wanted their father, they both wanted something from Him.

He wants to change my understanding of grace
Mercy is treating someone better than they deserve. Grace is giving somebody something they do not deserve.
Is God’s grace amazing to me?

“Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else:“Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector.The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people—cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector!I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14 NLT

What Jesus knows about all of us

All of us are looking to find a sense of approval and self-worth
All of us are looking to find something to remove our guilt and shame
All of us are looking for a sense of righteousness
Jesus wants us to find all of these by learning how to live from the inside out rather than outside in

Two Men

A Pharisee: Literally “Separate ones”. Religious elite
A Tax Collector: Jews who collected taxes from the Jews on behalf of the Romans and extorted more than required to get rich.

Two kinds of people

The Proud
The Humble

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6 NLT

Two prayers

“The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself…” Vs. 11

“But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ Vs. 14

Two Paths

Performance

“Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else…” Vs. 9

Grace

“I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God.” Vs. 14

Two Choices

Will I choose to live from the outside in like the Pharisee?
Will I choose to live from the inside out like the humble tax collector?

7 Miracles of Jesus recorded in the gospel of John

Jesus Changes Water Into Wine In Cana

“The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the celebration. The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, “They have no more wine.” “Dear woman, that’s not our problem,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.” But his mother told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” When the jars had been filled, he said, “Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies.” So the servants followed his instructions. When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. “A host always serves the best wine first,” he said. “Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!” This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples.” John 2:1-11 NLT

Jesus Heals A Government Official’s Son In Capernaum (John 4:46-54)
Jesus Heals A Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda In Jerusalem (John 5:1-18)
Jesus Feeds 5,000 Near The Sea Of Galilee (John 6:1-13)
Jesus Walks On Water At The Sea of Galilee (John 6:16-21)
Jesus Heals The Man Who Was Born Blind In Jerusalem (John 9:1-34)
Jesus Brings Lazarus Back From The Dead In Bethany (John 11:1-45)

(John 1:35-51)

John the Baptist

“Again the next day John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as He walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.” John 1:35-37

Answer the call to point people to Jesus

Andrew and John

“And Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi (which translated means Teacher), where are You staying?” He said to them, “Come, and you will see.” So they came and saw where He was staying; and they stayed with Him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.” John 1:38-40

Answer the call to be with Jesus

Peter

“He found first his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which translated means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John; you shall be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).” John 1:41-42

Answer the call to a new identity

Phillip

“The next day He purposed to go into Galilee, and He found Philip. And Jesus said to him, “Follow Me.” John 1:43

Answer the call to find real purpose

Nathanael

“Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” And He said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” John 1:44-51

Answer the call to continue in faith and trust

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John testified about Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’” For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.” John 1:1-18 NASB 95

Out With The Old

Throw out the old way of thinking and relating to God
Humanity’s Delusion and Darkness (Genesis 3)

“So with the wisdom given to me from the Lord I say: You should not live like the unbelievers around you who walk in their empty delusions. Their corrupted logic has been clouded because their hearts are so far from God—their blinded understanding and deep-seated moral darkness keeps them from the true knowledge of God.” Ephesians 4:17-18 TPT

In With The New

Embrace Jesus’ way of thinking and relating to the Father
Walk in the Truth by learning to see the Father as Jesus explained Him (John 1:14, 17-18)

“But this is not the way of life that Christ has unfolded within you. If you have really experienced the Anointed One, and heard his truth, it will be seen in your life; for we know that the ultimate reality is embodied in Jesus! And he has taught you to let go of the lifestyle of the ancient man, the old self-life, which was corrupted by sinful and deceitful desires that spring from delusions. Now it’s time to be made new by every revelation that’s been given to you. And to be transformed as you embrace the glorious Christ-within as your new life and live in union with him! For God has re-created you all over again in his perfect righteousness, and you now belong to him in the realm of true holiness.” Ephesians 4:20-24 TPT

Walk in the Light by pursuing to live and love as Jesus did (John 8:12)

He is face to face with us

Face to face in our fear

Face to face in our pain

Face to face in our sadness

Face to face in His freedom

Face to face in His peace

Face to face in His joy

Face to face in His rest

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. Matthew 3:13-4:11 NIV

The Baptism of Jesus

By being baptized Jesus identified with us.
His baptism clarified his identity.

“This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17 NIV (See Psalm 2, Isaiah 42)

The Reality of Evil

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Matthew 4:1NIV

There is a real, intelligent, personal evil at work in the world.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 NIV

Jesus came to destroy the power of the devil.

The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. 1 John 3:8b NIV

The Connection to The Old Testament

Jesus is the true Israel.
Jesus is the true human.

The Tests

Test #1

“If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Matthew 4:3 NIV

The tempter questioned Jesus’ identity.
The tempter tried to undermine Jesus’ trust in the Father.

Response #1

“It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4 (See Deuteronomy 8:3)

Test #2

Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Matthew 4:5,6 NIV (See Psalm 91)

The tempter twisted scripture and questioned the Father’s love for the Son.

Response #2

Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Matthew 4:7 NIV (See Deuteronomy 6:16, Exodus 17:1-7)

Test #3

Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Matthew 4:8,9 NIV

The tempter offered Jesus power and authority in exchange for His worship.

Response #3

Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! Matthew 4:10a (See Matthew 16:23)

For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Matthew 4:10b (See Deuteronomy 6:13)

The Transformation

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2a NIV

Recognize the lies of the tempter.

He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44 NIV

Replace the lies with truth.

The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6 NIV

Remain in Jesus

Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18 NIV

The Life of John the Baptist

His Birth

But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. Luke 1:13-17 (NIV) (see Malachi 4:5,6)

“And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High;for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him… Luke 1:76 (NIV) (see Malachi 3:1))

His Ministry

In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judeaand saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’

John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. Matthew 3:1-6 (NIV)

His Imprisonment

For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to,because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him. Mark 6:17-20 (NIV)

His Doubt

When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” Matthew 11:2,3 (NIV)

Why did John doubt Jesus?

But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:7-12 (NIV)

Jesus didn’t conform to John’s expectations.
Jesus didn’t intervene in John’s circumstances.

When John, who was in prison…Matthew 11:2 (NIV)

How did Jesus respond to John’s doubt?

Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.” Matthew 11:4,5 (NIV)

Jesus invited John into a new story.
Jesus encouraged John not to stumble.

Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” Matthew 11:6 (NIV)

“But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.” Galatians 4:4-5

The Background of the NT

Act 1 Creation/Fall

Act 2 Israel/OT (Covenant)

Act 3 Jesus/NT (Covenant)

Act 4 The Renewal of all things (Matthew 19:28, Acts 3:21, Isaiah 65:17-19)

2 Reasons the NT was written

To inform the early church about the life and teachings of Jesus.
To instruct the local congregations on how to live in His kingdom.

There is not much paper in between Malachi and Matthew, BUT there was 400 years of history. That shaped the world for Galatians 4:4. When Malachi wrote the land of the Jews was ruled by the Persian Empire.

3 things that set the stage for Jesus

Israel

“They are the people of Israel, chosen to be God’s adopted children. God revealed his glory to them. He made covenants with them and gave them his law. He gave them the privilege of worshiping him and receiving his wonderful promises. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are their ancestors, and Christ himself was an Israelite as far as his human nature is concerned. And he is God, the one who rules over everything and is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.” Romans 9:4-5 NLT

Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3)
A Holy Nation (Exodus 19:6, 1 Peter 2:9)
Monotheism
Torah
Dispersion/Exile into Babylon 587 BC
Septuagint
Judaism: Grew out of Phariseeism
The Greek Empire
Alexander the Great (Between 334 BC and 323 BC conquered the Mediterranean world)
One language/One world
The Roman Empire (Conquered the Greeks in 146 BC)
Law and order (Pax Romana)
Roads
Moral/Religious degeneration

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV

Christmas demonstrates the Greatest love

“For God SO loved the world…”

“Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love.” Ephesians 1:4 MSG

“Nothing can separate from God’s love…” Romans 8:38 NLT

Christmas is about the Greatest sacrifice

“that he GAVE his one and only Son…”

“Christ is the visible image of the invisible God…” Colossians 1:15 NLT

Christmas holds out the Greatest offer

“that WHOEVER believes in him shall not perish…”

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 NLT

Christmas provides the Greatest gift

“but have ETERNAL LIFE.”

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.” 1 Peter 1:3-5 NLT

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be uponhis shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 ESV

“You are to love the Lord Yahweh, your God, with a passionate heart, from the depths of your soul, with your every thought, and with all your strength. This is the great and supreme commandment. And the second is this: ‘You must love your neighbor in the same way you love yourself.’ You will never find a greater commandment than these.”Mark12:30-31 TPT

The gift of WISDOM

Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor

“And if anyone longs to be wise, ask God for wisdom and he will give it! He won’t see your lack of wisdom as an opportunity to scold you over your failures, but he will overwhelm your failures with his generous grace. Just make sure you ask empowered by confident faith without doubting that you will receive. For the ambivalent person believes one minute and doubts the next. Being undecided makes you become like the rough seas driven and tossed by the wind. You’re up one minute and tossed down the next.” James 1:5-6 TPT

“My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2-3 NIV

The gift of STRENGTH

Jesus is the Almighty God

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV

“I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 1:16-20 NIV

The gift of IDENTITY

Jesus is the Everlasting Father

“So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name bear witness about me, but you do not believe because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” John 10:24 – 30 ESV

“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” 1 John 3:1 ESV

The gift of PEACE

Jesus is the Prince of Peace

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13 ESV

“And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:14-15 ESV

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 ESV

The gifts of SALVATION and RELATIONSHIP

Jesus wants to save you and be involved in your life forever.

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 ESV

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.” John 15:13-15 ESV

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” John 15:4 ESV

“Behold, days are coming,” declares theLord, “when I will make anew covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah,not like thecovenant which I made with their fathers in the day Itook them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, Mycovenant which they broke, although I was a husband to them,” declares theLord.“Butthis is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days,” declares theLord, “I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; andI will be their God, and they shall be My people.They willnot teach again, each man his neighbor and each man his brother, saying, ‘Know theLord,’ for they will allknow Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them,” declares theLord, “for I willforgive their iniquity, and theirsin I will remember no more.” Jeremiah 31:31-34 NASB 95 (See also Hebrews 8:7-13)

What Is A Covenant?

A covenant is an agreement between two or more parties. A covenant relationship is based on promises. Covenant is how God has chosen to relate to humanity.

“And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.” Luke 22:20 NASB 95

“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time.” 1 Timothy 2:5-6 NIV

How Does Jesus Want Us To Respond To His New Covenant?

Believe in Me

“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” John 1:12 NIV

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV

Follow Me

“As He was going along by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen.And Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” Mark1:16-18 NASB 95

Build your life on Me

“Thereforeeveryone who hears these words of Mine andacts on them,may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock.And the rain fell, and thefloods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; andyetit did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does notact on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.The rain fell, and thefloods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 NASB 95

Abide in Me and walk in My Spirit

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruitof itself unless it abides in the vine, so neithercanyou unless you abide in Me.” John 15:4 NASB 95

Trust and obey

Matthew 5-7

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” Luke 6:46 NIV

“Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” Colossians 3:12-14 NLT

Grow in Me

“May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness,and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:2-8 NLT

“Now may the God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood—may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT

“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 CSB

The Life of Jesus

“Who has believed what we have heard? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? He grew up before him like a young plant and like a root out of dry ground. He didn’t have an impressive form or majesty that we should look at him, no appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of suffering who knew what sickness was. He was like someone people turned away from; he was despised, and we didn’t value him.” Isaiah 53:1-3 CSB

The Death of Jesus

“Surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way; But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him. He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He did not open His mouth; Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth. By oppression and judgment He was taken away; And as for His generation, who considered That He was cut off out of the land of the living for the transgression of my people, to whom the stroke was due? His grave was assigned with wicked men, Yet He was with a rich man in His death, Because He had done no violence, Nor was there any deceit in His mouth. But the Lord was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering,” Isaiah 53:4-10a NASB 95

The Resurrection of Jesus

“…He will see his seed, He will prolong his days, and by his hand, the Lord’s pleasure will be accomplished. After his anguish, he will see light and be satisfied. By his knowledge, my righteous servant will justify many, and he will carry their iniquities. Therefore I will give him the many as a portion, and he will receive the mighty as spoil, because he willingly submitted to death, and was counted among the rebels; yet he bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels.” Isaiah 53:10b-12 CSB

“…for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 NASB 95 How We Can Choose Joy In Our Lives No Matter What Defy your difficult circumstances through His promises “ If

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The Story Of Naomi In The Book Of Ruth Chapter 1: Tragedy and Loyalty “But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I

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Pass the torch of faith “O my people, listen to my instructions. Open your ears to what I am saying for I will speak to you in a parable. I

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NIV “They

“Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” Deuteronomy 6:4-5 NASB 95 “…you

Exodus 25-30 “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and of all its furniture, so you

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“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” A.W. Tozer You become like the God you worship “Dear friends, we are

“It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying

“Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13 NLT “When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What

“In the womb he grasped his brother’s heel; as a man he struggled with God. He struggled with the angel and overcame him; he wept and begged for his favor. He found him

“Now it came about after these things, that God tested Abraham…” Genesis 22:1 NASB 95 “Test or trap? It depends on if the one testing you has your best interest in

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“…be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” Romans 16:19-20 NASB 95 The domino effect of the

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“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1 NASB 95 HIStory didn’t begin at Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning God…” Jesus the Creator God He is the Who of

“People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 NLT “You have been believers so long now that you ought

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Recognize that we each have a part to play “Just as there are many parts to our bodies, so it is with Christ’s body. We are all parts of it,

“Though I am the least deserving of all God’s people, he graciously gave me the privilege of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ. I was

“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the

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“Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall

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“Now all this took place so that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet would be fulfilled:“Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and they shall name Him Immanuel,”

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And

“For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.” Psalm 71:5-6

“But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that

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“O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your

“Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, “Let us burst

“Yahweh said to my Lord, the Messiah: “Sit with me as enthroned ruler while I subdue your every enemy. They will bow low before you as I make them a

“How happy (Blessed) is the one who does not walk in the advice of the wicked or stand in the pathway with sinners or sit in the company of mockers!

Grow: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 ESV

“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and

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What is the role of the church in the conflict between darkness & light? “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can

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“Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree

“I’m a mystery to myself, for I want to do what is right, but end up doing what my moral instincts condemn. And if my behavior is not in line with my

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“Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others

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There is a calling “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then

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Acts 10 Jesus is the exclusive yet all-inclusive Savior for all Exclusive: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 NIV

“Saul, who was also known as Paul…” Acts 13:9 Saul (Sha’ul) = “Asked for, prayed for” Paul = “Small/humble” WHO IS PAUL AND WHAT IS HIS STORY? “Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against

Acts 6-8 When Someone Is Willing To Give Up Their Life For The Sake Of The Gospel: It substantiates their convictions “While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus,

“And as they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came upon them, greatly annoyed because they were teaching the people

Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly a noise like a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and

“The first account I composed, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had given orders by the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He

“And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Revelation 21:5 NASB WHAT IS THE MEANING OF EASTER (THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS)? Luke 24 It means

“Therefore I will give him the many as a portion, and he will receive the mighty as spoil, because he willingly submitted to death, and was counted among the rebels; yet he

“Then, accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the upstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. There he told them, “Pray that you will not give in to temptation.”

“Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee,

Dave Runyon “On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “What is written in

“Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near Jesus to listen to Him. And both the Pharisees and the scribes began to complain, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them. And He said

“About eight days after these sayings, He took along Peter, John, and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while He was praying, the appearance of His face became different, and His

“Now when a large crowd was coming together, and those from the various cities were journeying to Him, He spoke by way of a parable: “The sower went out to

Luke 6:20-49 “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who

“One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water’s edge two boats,

Minister: To give service, care, aid, and attend to wants and needs. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life

“Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days.

“Behold, I am sending My messenger, and he will clear a way before Me. And the Lord, whom you are seeking, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom

LUKE 2:39-52: “And when His parents had completed everything in accordance with the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. Now the Child continued to grow

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 NIV In a focus group of 50 people, 95 years or older, were asked:

WHEN GOD INTERFERES WITH YOUR PLANS: Trust He is good and knows what is best “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs

“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of

“I am a true sprouting vine, and the farmer who tends the vine is my Father.” John 15:1 TPT “So you must remain in life-union with me, for I remain in

Guest Teacher: Pastor George Morrison JESUS, THE WAY TO THE FATHER “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;” John 11:25 NIV THE BLESSINGS OF THE RESURRECTION

“I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have

“Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; the one who comes to Me will not be hungry, and the one who believes in Me will never be thirsty.” John

“Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?” Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But

“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7 NASB “If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have

“Love rejoices with the truth.” 1 Corinthians 13:6 WHAT ARE SOME REASONS WE ARE TEMPTED TO NOT BE TRUTHFUL? Fear of consequences Shame Insecurity Fear of rejection We want our

“Love keeps no record of wrongs…” 1 Corinthians 13:5 “Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.” Matthew 6:12 NLT THREE THINGS THAT CHALLENGE US

“Love is not rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable.” 1 Corinthians 13:5 NLT Selfish: demanding your way Selfless: helping others find their way “There

“Love is not jealous or boastful or proud.” 1 Corinthians 13:4b NLT Jealousy and bragging flow out of our pride and wounded egos “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

“Love is patient and kind” 1 Corinthians 13:4a Love is PatientThe word literally means: A long way from anger “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.” Psalm

“Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 NASB THE TRUTH ABOUT LOVE: Love is not a feeling, it is a choice “My dear children, let’s not just talk about

Titus 3 “Do this in remembrance of Me.” Jesus WHAT DO WE NEED TO BE REMINDED OF? Remember that He came for us “But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for

Titus 2 “You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.” Vs.1 WHAT THINGS ARE WE TO TEACH? “These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke

Titus 1 A healthy church has a healthy view of the Gospel “Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge

Joel Dennis “Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Luke alone

2 Timothy 4:1-8 WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT? Fight to keep Jesus front and center in your life Fight to uphold biblical values Fight to bring others to Jesus TO WIN THE

2 Timothy 3 Grounded: “Firmly established, fixed, settled” WHAT ARE THE LAST DAYS? “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.” 2 Timothy 3:1 Two ways to

2 Timothy 2:14-26 HOW TO OVERCOME DISTRACTIONS 1. Keep focused on the central themes of Scripture “Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is

“You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to

2 Timothy 1 OBSERVATIONS: 1. Paul reminds Timothy of their relationship Vs. 1-5: “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my beloved son: Grace,

Scott Trautwein Romans 12:21-13:14 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21 NKJV 1. Subject ourselves to authority “Let every soul be subject to the

Kristen Diebel “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t

“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all

Ephesians 6:1-9 “As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this

“Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face

Ephesians 4:1-16 HOW CAN I KNOW IF I AM MATURING IN CHRIST? 1. Maturing Christ followers are confident in their spiritual identity “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you

Ephesians 3 HOW STAY ROOTED IN FAITH 1. See life’s difficulties from an eternal perspective “For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles.” Vs. 1

Ephesians 2:11-22 1. What is the problem with peace? “Don’t forget that you Gentiles used to be outsiders. You were called “uncircumcised heathens” by the Jews, who were proud of

BUT GOD: Things looked bleak for Noah, “But God remembered him.” (Genesis 8:1) Joseph’s life was filled with betrayals, “But God turned what they meant for evil, for good.” (Genesis 50:20) King Saul

“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in

Ephesians 1:1-14 HOW DO WE STAY ROOTED IN CHRIST? FOUR QUESTIONS TO ASK AND ANSWER 1. Do we know who we are because of Christ? Our spiritual root system is every spiritual blessing that

1 Peter 1:1-9 The antidote to discouragement, defeat, and despair is Hope Hope is having confidence in Jesus’ faithfulness to His word TO DAILY LIVE IN THE HOPE THAT THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message.” John 17:20 NLT “Jesus looked up to heaven and

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 NIV HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR

“God’s kingdom is like a treasure hidden in a field for years and then accidentally found by a trespasser. The finder is ecstatic—what a find!—and proceeds to sell everything he

“The fruit of the Spirit is power through self-control…” Galatians 5:23 “Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break

“The fruit of the Spirit is gentleness…” Galatians 5:23 Gentleness = Power under control or controlled strength “Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5 NASB “Blessed are the meek,

“The fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness…” Galatians 5:23 Can God be trusted? = Faith “The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.” Psalm 145:13 NIV Can I

“The fruit of the Spirit is…goodness.” Galatians 5:22 Goodness= Doing the right things for the right reasons, from a right heart “Good and upright is the Lord;” Psalm 25:8 NIV “I am the

I believe in… Christ’s holy church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen. Share your thoughts and engage

“The fruit of the Spirit is…kindness.” Galatians 5:22 Four Things the Bible Reveals about Kindness Rooted IN CHRIST 1. Kindness is power “For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various

I believe in… Christ’s holy church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen. Share your thoughts and engage

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” Psalm 103:8 NIV “God is love…” 1 John 4:8 “Love is patient…” 1 Corinthians 13:4 “The fruit of the Spirit

“The fruit of the Spirit is peace…” Galatians 5:22 Peace: A state of untroubled and undisturbed well-being. Calm, harmony, order, and unity “Now may the God of peace, who through the blood

“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”

I BELIEVE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT Today’s guests: Chris Ingalls, Scott Applegate, and Dr Russ Frase Share your thoughts and engage with one another. Join the conversation on facebook: facebook.com/groups/novation.tnd

“…you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” Colossians 3:9-10 NIV “The fruit

I BELIEVE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT Today’s guests: Chris Ingalls, Scott Applegate, and Dr Russ Frase Share your thoughts and engage with one another. Join the conversation on facebook: facebook.com/groups/novation.tnd

“Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the

YouVersion Reading Plan: “One Word That Will Change Your Life”novationchurch.org/oneword Discipline Is the Pathway to Peace “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us

“Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.” Luke 2:10 NLT Christmas is for ALL people “The Lord is not

Four Things to Know and Remember That Are TRUE 1. He sees our tears When King Hezekiah was sick and scared, he prayed and cried out to God. He wept bitterly. “Turn back,

HE SUFFERED UNDER PONTIUS PILATE, WAS CRUCIFIED, DIED AND WAS BURIED.HE DESCENDED TO THE DEAD.ON THE THIRD DAY HE ROSE AGAIN.HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN AND IS SEATED AT THE RIGHT

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the

HE SUFFERED UNDER PONTIUS PILATE, WAS CRUCIFIED, DIED AND WAS BURIED.HE DESCENDED TO THE DEAD.ON THE THIRD DAY HE ROSE AGAIN.HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN AND IS SEATED AT THE RIGHT

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release

1 John 5 He who accepts Jesus, also accepts: His commands Vs 3a – “In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands.” NIV His victory Vs 3b-4 – “And his commands

Let’s Put It to The Test: Test #1: Am I following the real Jesus? (Vs. 1-3) “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God,

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record

“WE BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST HIS ONLY SON, OUR LORD. HE WAS CONCEIVED BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, BORN OF THE VIRGIN MARY.” Today’s guests: Joel and Kristen

Question 1 : Am I keeping close to Jesus? (Vs. 2:28-29) “And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink

“WE BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST HIS ONLY SON, OUR LORD. HE WAS CONCEIVED BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, BORN OF THE VIRGIN MARY.” Post your reply to the

Three major traps in life: (Vs. 15-17) “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

Because of Jesus: I have a full life to live. (Vs. 3-6) “And we can be sure that we know him if we obey his commandments. If someone claims, “I know God,”

“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of

This month as we kick off our NEW TND PODCAST our hosts Chris Ingalls and Scott Applegate give us an introduction to The Apostles’ Creed. Home work: Write 300 word

“But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength;they shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 NKJV

An introduction to the Apostles' Creed

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” Colossians 3:1 NIV A heart that is

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11 NIV Passion Killers: Not knowing my purpose “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us

Seth and Danielle Woodyard lead our local outreach and global missions here at Novation Church. If you have questions about how you can get involved please reach out to them:

Celebrating what God has done through this church, and looking forward to WHAT’S NEXT Sunday Experience Worship Service Scott Applegatescott@novationchurch.org Today is our 398th Sunday Service 🎶 ✝️ Children’s &

“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not

“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they

“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”John 15:8 NIV “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who

2 Samuel 6 Worshipis ascribing worth and value to something or someone We were createdfor worship (Isaiah 45:6-7, Colossians 1:15-20) Worship is a lifestyle(Colossians 3:24-25, 1 Corinthians 10:31) Worship is also expressive. It

“But God removed Saul and replaced him with David, a man about whom God said, ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart. He will

1 Samuel 27-30 The wildernessis a metaphor for a time of discouragement in the life of a believer. Discouragement= Anything that makes us less confident and less hopeful. Why Do

2 Samuel 11-12, Psalm 51 What Should We Do with Our Failures? Don’t keep them in the dark “Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of

3 Types of Friendships Acquaintances, Close, Intimate Building Blocks of True Friendship Commitment “When David had finished speaking with Saul, Jonathan was bound to David in close friendship, and loved him as

“King Saul and the Israelites drew up to their battle line to meet the Philistines. A champion named Goliath came out of the Philistine camp. He was over nine feet tall.

I Samuel 16 (NIV) Questions to Ponder as You Study David The Shepherd: Are you focused on being highly qualifiedor high quality? Man looks at what’s on the outside,but God looks at the heart

(John 11:1-45) The signs of Jesus authenticated and demonstrated that He really is the Son of the living God. The purpose of a sign is to point us in the

I Was Blind But Now I See John 9 What Blinds Us from Seeing God in Our Lives? What Enables Us to See God in Our Lives? “As he went

(Jesus walks on water) “When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it

“Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), and a great crowd of people followed him because they

Hope for the Helpless “The poor and the helpless have fled to you and have been safe in times of trouble. You give them shelter from storms and shade from

“After the two days he left for Galilee. (Now Jesus himself had pointed out that a prophet has no honor in his own country.) When he arrived in Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him.

Jesus Turns Water into Wine “On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his

“He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.” Romans 4:25 NLT “And if Christ has not

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let

“Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin

“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat” Proverbs 23:20 NIV “He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of

“You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in

“You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you

“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2 NIV Good pride: Proverbs 17:6, Galatians 6:4 (Taking joy in the success and growth of others, satisfaction

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” Romans 3:23 NLT What is the Deal with Sin? “In order to stop defeating ourselves, we need to

“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and

James 4:13-5:12 To Mature in My Faith, I Need To: Keep the right perspectives “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a

“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if

James 1:19-2:20 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7 NIV Practicelistening more and talking less “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must

“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings. Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know

“Let love be your highest goal” 1 Corinthians 14:1 NIV To Love the Way We Are Called to Love: Wordsare not enough “If I speak in the tongues

A thrill of hopethe weary world rejoices “For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

“O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth! Long lay the world in sin and error pining Till He appeared and

“O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth! Long lay the world in sin and error pining Till he appear’d and

“O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth! Long lay the world in sin and error pining Till he appear’d and

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for

“Before Paul finished defending himself, Festus shouted, “Paul, you’re crazy! Too much learning has driven you out of your mind.” But Paul replied, “Honorable Festus, I am not crazy. What

Romans 14 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, hat all of them may be one, Father, just as

“What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his own Son but

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may

“Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven.So, they worshiped

“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has

Luke 24 NIV Knowing Jesus Intimately Leads to: Opened eyes “Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him…” Luke 24:31 NIV Look for evidence of Jesus in your

“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and

“As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly

“Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem.They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.As they talked

Injustice: The abuse of power- abusing power by taking from others the good things that God intended for them – namely their life, liberty, dignity, or the fruits of their

“Sitting across from the temple treasury, he watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny

“Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know

How Do We Practice Giving in Light of Eternity? By giving toward Heaven(give with the end in mind) Store up treasures in Heaven “Do not store up for yourselves

“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount

(Galatians 6) What Should I Do from Here? Be led by the law of Christ “Brothers and sisters, if someone is overtaken in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual, restore such

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires

“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. 2 Listen! I, Paul, tell you

(Galatians 4) Do I have the faith of a slave or a son? “Think of it this way. If a father dies and leaves an inheritance for his young children, those

Galatians 3:1-29 The Background “Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, “The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to keep the law

“But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face because he stood condemned. For he regularly ate with the Gentiles before certain men came from James. However, when

Galatians 1:11-2:10 Because of the Gospel, Paul Experienced Freedom Through: Redemption “For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of

“For freedom, Christ set us free. Stand firm then and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 CSB How do I get set free from the prison

1 Samuel 1-2:11, 2:18-21 What did Hannah do With Her Pain? What did Hannah NOT do With Her Pain? Some Primary Types of Pain: Physical Spiritual Emotional Mental

“After this Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. And he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews

Luke 1:26-55 A Life of Faith: Begins with grace(Vs. 28) Has times of confusion(Vs. 29-30) “Don’t be afraid” Grows through questions(Vs. 34) “How can this be”?

What courage is “If I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16 Courage is the strength it takes to take risks, face danger, endure difficulties and withstand fear You cannot

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in

Not Fearing Death Takes: Truth “Someone will ask, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” You fool! When you plant a seed in

1 Corinthians 15:12-34 Hope in the resurrection of Jesus provides a proper perspective of the past. (Vs. 12-19) “Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some

“Last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because

“Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. It is this

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also

“Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You

“Call to Me and I will answer you . . .” Jeremiah 33:3 NIV One Of The Many Reasons God Says ‘No’: God says ‘no’ when he has a bigger

“We can ignore even pleasure. But pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is

“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 NIV “Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man

To Receive an Answer From God I Need To… Surrender to His timing Keep Praying Until One of Three Things Happens: You get an answer You get assurance God

“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our

We are to pray “…when you pray…” Matthew 6:5 NLT We are to pray in private “…when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you,

“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of the disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray…’” Luke 11:1 NIV 4 Foundational Truths

“Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made his

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV Christmas demonstrates the Greatest love

The Problem Ruth 3:1 The Plan Ruth 3:2-9 The Pledge Ruth 3:10-18 The Purchase Ruth 4:1-12 The Promise Ruth 4:13-22 In The Gospel Of Jesus

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

Themes from The Book of Ruth: Commitment Redemption Love Story Parallels to Christ Ruth Chapter 1:1-5 Where Did You Come From? Ruth Chapter 1:6-18 Who’s with Me?

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV Essential #4: Love “I

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV Essential #3: Gratitude “Give

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV Essential #2: Hope “When

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV Essential #1: Purpose The

Pastor Scott Applegate “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Pastor Brian Sump Romans 3 God is just because He operates according to what is morally right and fair. “Let God be true, and every human being a liar. As

“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for

“For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Psalm 100:5 NIV To know the goodness of God is to know the Good Shepherd “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall

“I will exalt you, my God and King, and praise your name forever and ever. I will praise you every day; yes, I will praise you forever. Great is the Lord! He is

Pastor Scott Applegate “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Ephesians

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? My

Pastor George Morrison Awe of God Amazement, wonder inspired by greatness, superiority, grandeur. Overwhelming wonder “Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in AWE of Him.” Psalm 33:8 KJV

Joel Dennis “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord

Pastor Scott Applegate “His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that

Pastor Scott Applegate “His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according

Pastor Scott Applegate “His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that

Pastor Brian Sump “Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for

Pastor Scott Applegate John: Literally Walked with Jesus Gaius: Practiced walking with Jesus Diotrephes: Lost his walk Demetrius: Walked with consistency “The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I

Pastor Scott Applegate “The elder, To the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth— because

Pastor Scott Applegate rec·on·cile (v): to win over to friendliness; cause to become amicable, to reconcile hostile persons, to compose or settle (a quarrel, dispute, etc.), to bring into agreement or harmony; make

Joel Dennis “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the

Pastor Scott Applegate “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT Fear is an intimidator and

Pastor Scott Applegate “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again…” Proverbs 24:16a NIV The Connection of Stress and Failure: Fear of failure is often worse than the

Pastor Scott Applegate “Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good. It is useless for you to

Pastor Scott Applegate “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more

Pastor Scott Applegate “Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a

Pastor Brian Sump “Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there,

Pastor Scott Applegate “Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he

Pastor Scott Applegate “By this time it was about noon, and darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. The light from the sun was gone. And suddenly, the curtain

Pastor Scott Applegate “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 NIV When Jesus prayed this from the cross He was putting into practice what

Pastor Scott Applegate “From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my

Pastor Scott Applegate “Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a

Pastor Brian Sump “Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I am sending him

Pastor Scott Applegate “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim

Pastor Scott Applegate “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order

Pastor Scott Applegate “Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake

Pastor Scott Applegate “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible

Pastor Scott Applegate “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to

Brian Sump Sharing Jesus has three key benefits: It grows my faith It grows the church It has eternal impact on the lives of others “… and I pray that

Pastor Scott Applegate “…we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.  He makes

Pastor Scott Applegate “People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 NLT “You have been believers so long now

Pastor Scott Applegate “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if

Pastor Scott Applegate “Let love be your highest goal…” 1 Corinthians 14:1 NLT To seek love as my highest goal: 1.I need to view love as a choice and an

Pastor Scott Applegate “Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do.

Brian Sump Start right in 2017 with an eternal focus first “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day

Pastor Scott Applegate “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Matthew 1:23 NIV Jesus came to show us

Pastor Marc Bullion Four characters who missed the first Christmas, why they missed it, and what we can learn from them: 1. The Inn Keeper (Luke 2:7) He missed Christmas

Pastor Scott Applegate Christmas: Literally, “Christ-worship” “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who

Pastor Scott Applegate The gift that keeps on giving: Hope “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” Isaiah

Scott Applegate “I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I

Joel Dennis “Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia

Pastor Scott Applegate Walk: A metaphor for our spiritual life and our relationship with God To find joy in my walk I need to: 1.Rely on grace “Whatever happens, my

Brian Sump “I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one

Pastor Scott Applegate “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Proverbs 4:23 NLT “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only

Pastor Scott Applegate “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and

Pastor Scott Applegate Four enemies of joy: Problems, People, Pressure, Pain The allies of joy: Perspective and Praise “Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened

Pastor Scott Applegate “…the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 NIV Joy is not about personality (Luke 2:10) Joy comes from God’s word (Psalm 19:8) Joy is

Pastor Scott Applegate “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” John 17:18 NIV As Christ’s disciples we have been called “out of the

DEVOTED to Finding and Using My Spiritual Gifts for Ministry “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us…” Romans 12:6 NIV “Each of you should use

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in

Pastor Scott Applegate “…I will build My Church…” Jesus (Matthew 16:18) “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many,

Practical Steps Toward Being Extraordinary Joel Dennis 1.Know your identity Life in the flesh “For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want,

Pastor Scott Applegate “…The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 NIV Who is an

Pastor Scott Applegate “Then Moses went out and spoke these words to all Israel: “I am now a hundred and twenty years old and I am no longer able to lead you. The

Pastor Scott Applegate “The Lord was with the men of Judah. They took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive the people from the plains, because they had chariots fitted

Pastor Scott Applegate “By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God