Grace Bible Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
GraceKC.org
Speaker: Dennis Clemons
Series: Mark 3:7-35
Text: Mark 3:7-35
Theme: Opinions Vary (Part 2): Your Verdict about Jesus will Seal the Fate of Your Soul.
Various Responses to Jesus: One: The demons shrieked with terror - Knowledge in opposition to the truth
Two: The apostles became his companions - Growing but incomplete knowledge of the truth
Three: His family misunderstood him - Confused misunderstanding of the truth
Four: The scribes slandered him - malicious indifference to the truth
Five: Disciples called him brother, Savior, and Lord - Love of the truth in humility and obedience
"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." ~ Revelation 22:13
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: What to do about Acceptable Sins
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 45
Theme: The Anchor of Forgiveness is your Confidence in God's Good Plan
The Story:
- Joseph reveals his identity.
- Joseph points to God's sovereignty
- Joseph demonstrates his sincerity
- Pharoah insists on generosity
- Jacob stunned by reality
Applications:
- Forgiveness does not ignore the offence
- Forgiveness addresses guilt with grace
- Forgiveness focuses on God's purpose
- Forgiveness calls for the fruit of repentence
It was not you...but God. ~ Genesis 45:8
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Ungodliness
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Text: Various Passages
Theme: God Often Speaks of Mountains to Help Us Understand the Truth He Wants Us to Know
When you look at mountains, you should consider... One: ...the wonder of creation.
Two: ...the evidence of majesty.
Three: ...the warning of judgement.
Four: ...the promise of salvation.
Five: ...the illustration of faithfulness.
Six: ...the hope of refuge.
Seven: ...the call to faith.
Glorious are you, more majestic than the mountains ~ Psalm 76:4
Speaker: Allan Heney
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Pride
Speaker: Dennis Clemons
Series: The Gospel of Mark
Text: Mark: 3:7-35
Theme: Opinions Vary: Your verdict about Jesus will seal the fate of your soul.
Speaker: Jonathan McClurg
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Judgementalism
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 43-44
Theme: As You Hope for Reconciliation, God is at Work to Accomplish His Plan.
As You Hope for Reconciliation, God is at Work - in Your Life and in the Lives of Others - to Accomplish His Plan.One: God is at work in Jacob's faith
Two: God is at work in the steward's message
Three: God is at work in Joseph's heart
Four: God is at work in Joseph's plan
Five: God is at work in the brothers' _
Six: God is at work in Judah's character
Seven: God is at work in the picture of substitution
May God Almighty grant you mercy ~ Genesis 43:14
Speaker: Steve Beckerle
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Impatience, Irritability, and Anger
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 42
Theme: Your Sin is Never Without Consequences.
One: The Sting of Emptiness
Two: The Weight of Guilt
Three: The Fear of Judgement
Four: The Brokenness of Relationships
Five: The Undermining of Faith
Conclusion
- Because sin always ruins,...
- ...confess sin, forsake sin, and find God's mercy. (Proverbs 28:13)
So now there comes a reckoning ~ Genesis 42:22
Speaker: Carson Buchannan
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Selfishness
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 41
Theme: The Fruit of Affliction
One: NOT merely temporal success
- It is one means of God's blessing.
- It pictures the bounty of the soul.
Two: Humility
- I don't seek man's approval.
- I do promote God's glory.
Three: Trust
- I can't forget the past!
- I can view it in the context of Biblical truth.
Four: Thanksgiving
- I recognize God's goodness.
- ...even in affliction.
Five: Hope
- God can amaze us in one day.
- God will amaze us on That Day.
The Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love ~ Genesis 39:21
Speaker: Randy Maglinger
Series: "Repectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Discontentment and Unthankfulness
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 40
Theme: God Cares for You by His Presence...
...known by... One: ...His control
Two: ...His guidance
Three: ...His peace
Four: ...His gospel
The Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love ~ Genesis 39:21
Speaker: Paul Tucker
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Anxiety and Frustration
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Resurrection Sunday
Text: Acts 2:22-36
Theme: Jesus is the Rescuing, Risen, and Ruling King.
One: An Empty Cross
- Meaning, sin is forgiven
- Meaning, judgement is spent
Two: An Empty Tomb
- Confirming the plan to defeat death
- Confirming the power of God's promise
Three: An Occupied Throne
- For the joy of His people
- For the defeat of His enemies
Four: An Occupied Life
- Defined as a Spirit-filled life
- Defined as a gospel-focused life
He is not here, for he has risen as he said ~ Matthew 28:6
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Resurrection Sunday
Text: John 19
Theme: "We have a law...he ought to die"
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Text: Zachariah 9:9-17
Theme: We Rejoice because our King has come.
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Text: John 12
Theme: Living in allegiance to Jesus as Lord is costly
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 39
Theme: The Lord is with Me and Shows Me Steadfast Love.
One: The Lord is with me...
- ...when I suffer unexpectedly
- ...when I am tempted strongly
- The strength of temptation: it will be...
- promising
- persistent
- planned
- The truth for temptation:
- love God
- love others
- The strength of temptation: it will be...
- ...when I am treated unjustly
Two: The Lord shows me steadfast love...
- ...therefore, I am not worthless.
- ...therefore, I am not powerless.
- ...therefore, I am not forgotten.
Conclusion: You must believe this truth and reherse it often: the Lord is with me and shows me steadfast love.
By faith Joseph... ~ Hebrews 11:22
Speaker: Matt Hargrave
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Worldliness
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 37
Theme: God is at Work in the Rejection you Experience
One: Why rejected?
- Rejected, through no fault of your own
- Rejected, because of another's sin
- Rejected, due to your belief in God's plan
Two: The Pain of Rejection
- Rejection may not be wanted.
- Rejection may not be understood.
Three: Rejection in the Gospel Story
- John 1:11 - his own people did not receive him
- Isaiah 53:3 - he was despised and rejected by men
Four: How is God at work in rejection?
- God is loving you with full acceptance.
- God is weaning you from the desire for man's approval.
- God is calling you to believe that he is enough.
- God is shaping you to be more like Christ.
By faith Joseph ~ Hebrews 11:22
Speaker: Kirk Chestnut
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Sins of the Tongue
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 37
Theme: God is at Work in Your Messed Up Family.
One: God is at work...
- ...in the keeping of His promises
- ...for the saving of His people
- ...to the glory of His name.
Two: Five Stores to Make the Point
Three: Two Generational Influences
- The sins of the fathers = the tragic impact of modeled, habitual sin
- The grace of God = the transformational power of sufficient, sanctifying grace.
Four: Three Applications of Hope
- Hope for you.
- Hope for your family tree.
- Hope in your local church.
By faith Joseph ~ Hebrews 11:22
Speaker: Dave Caldwell
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Envy, Jealousy, and Related Sins
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 1-37
Theme: Believe God's Promise to Remedy Sin.
One: The Generations of Genesis: In every generation, man is ravaged by sin.
Two: The Promise of God: In every generation, God has rescued by grace.
Three: The Challenge of Faith:
- To see the ruin of sin, and yet...
- ...to trust the promise of God.
Four: The Application for Us:
- For salvation: confess sin & receive God's salvation
- For temptation: reject the lies and believe in God's goodness
- For hope: abandon dispair, and rest in God's faithfulness
- For worship: die to self and live for your Creator/Savior/King
By faith Joseph... ~ Hebrews 11:22
Speaker: Daniel Moorehead
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Lack of Self-Control
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Joseph
Text: Genesis 37:1-2
Theme: Approaching the Story of Joseph...
One: We have morals to learn.
Two: We have pictures to see.
Three: We have commentary to consider.
Four: We have a story to follow.
Five: We have promises to believe.
Six: We have our God to trust.
By faith Joseph... ~ Hebrews 11:22
Speaker: Joshua Renander
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: The Weeds of Anger
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Why We Worship The Way We Do
Text: Romans 12:1-2
Theme: You Must Worship with a Daily Life of Godliness.
Signs that you may not understand a life of worship: One: You are not often amazed by God's mercy.
- ...as the strength of Paul's argument
- ...as the motivation for my worship
- ...as the example for our mercy
Two: You are not daily giving yourself to God's agenda.
- A paradox: a living sacrifice
- A call to holiness
- A reasonable expectation
Three: You are not actively resisting the world's influence.
- The great threat is worldliness
- The subtle strategy is confromity
Four: You are not continually transforming with God's truth.
- A process of metamorphosis
- In the battlefield of the mind
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: James 1; Numbers 13-14
Theme: The Malignancy of Sin
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Why We Worship the Way We Do
Text: Ephesians 5:19
Theme: What Qualifies for Church Music (Part 3)
Test One: Is it theological?
Test Two: Is it God-centered?
Test Three: Is it excellent?
Test Four: Is it congregational?
Test Five: Is it passionate?
Test Six: Is it understandable?
Test Seven: Is it reverent?
Test Eight: Is it singable?
- ...in its range
- ...in its rhythm
- ...in its musicality
Test Nine: Is it spiritual?
- By the Spirit
- From the heart
- As worship to God
Test Ten: Is it distinct?
- Seperate, not similar
- Sacred, not common
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Are Some Sins Worse Than Others?
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Why We Worship the Way We Do
Text: Ephesians 5:19
Theme: What qualifies for church music?
Test One: Is it theological?
Test Two: Is it God-centered?
Test Three: Is it Excellent?
Test Four: Is it congregational?
Test Five: Is it passionate?
- as a result of truth
- including a broad range of emotions
- with an emphasis on joy
Test Six: Is it understandable?
- Church music is communication.
- Church music is literature.
Test Seven: Is it reverent?
- It should be respectful.
- It should be governed.
It is good to sing praises to our God ~ Psalm 147:1
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Various Passages
Theme: What is Sin?
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Why We Worship the Way We Do
Text: Colossians 3:16
Theme: What Qualifies for Church Music?
Test One: Is it theological?
- It should be orthodox.
- It should be meaningful.
- It should be clear.
Test Two: Is it God-centered?
- God should be the subject and the object of our worship.
- Personal pronouns may be express our needs or response.
Test Three: Is it excellent?
- It should be non-distracting.
- It should be fitting.
- It should have musical quality.
Test Four: Is it congregational?
- It should celebrate the human voice.
- It should celebrate participation.
It is good to sing praises to our God ~ Psalm 147:1
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: "Respectable Sins" and Sanctification
Text: Luke 15
Theme: Respectable Sins: An Introduction
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Why We Worship the Way We Do
Text: Psalm 100
Theme: Our Liturgy: We Speak to God
Worship = my response to God's Worth.
Liturgy = the order of the service.
We speak to God through...
One: ...Prayer: whereby we (P)raise, (R)epent, (A)sk, and (Y)eild.
Two: ...Singing: as praise and as descipleship.
Three: ...Affirmations of our faith: from the Bible, and from church confessions.
Four: ...Giving: with thanksgiving and in faith.
Five: ...Congregational Responses: with "amen", through the ordinances, and by our resolve.
Present your bodies as a living sacrifice...which is your spiritual worship ~ Romans 12:1
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Back to the Bible
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Common Mistakes When Reading the Bible
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Why We Worship the Way We Do
Text: Nehemiah 8:1-12
Theme: Our Liturgy: God Speaks to Us
Worship = my responds to God's worth.
Liturgy = the order of the service.
God speaks to us in...
One: ...the Call to Worship: a call for unity, focus, and praise.
Two: ...Scripture Reading: God has spoken with living words.
Three: ...Preaching: the explanation of, and exultation in, God and His work.
Four: ...Meditation: be still and know who God is.
Five: ...Benediction: a good word of sustaining truth.
Present your bodies a living sacrifice...which is your spiritual worship ~ Romans 12:1
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Back to the Bible
Text: Psalm 19
Theme: An Exercise in Psalm 19
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: New Year's Focus
Text: Psalm 119:18
Theme: Read this one verse to better read the whole Bible
As you come to God's Word, know this
One: Open my eyes - God gives spiritual understanding.
Two: that I may behold - Beholding is an individual act.
Three: wonderous things - God's Word reveals wonderful truth.
Four: out of your law - The Bible is absolute authority.
Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderous things out of your law.Psalm 119:18
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Back to the Bible
Text: Isaiah 8, 51
Theme: Back to the Bible
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Christmas in Micah
Text: The Prophecy of Micah
Theme: Christmas is the gift of Christ's rule
The rule of Jesus Christ is described in terms of
One: Lordship so that we would understand service
Two: Relationship so that we would understand belonging
Three: Power so that we would understand strength
Three: Shepherding so that we would understand care
Three: Greatness so that we would understand peace
He will save his people from their sins ~ Matthew 1:21
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Christmas in Micah
Text: The Prophecy of Micah
Theme: Christmas is the Gift of Rescue.
Key elements of a rescue.
One: Captives...
Two: ...taken by an enemy...
Three: ...that is raided...
Four: ...by a hero..
Five: ...with success...
He will save his people from their sins ~ Matthew 1:21
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Christmas in Micah
Text: The Prophecy of Micah
Theme: Christmas Is the Gift of Righteousness
One: The Lack of Righteousness
- Multiple indictments of unrighteousness
- Multiple predictions of disaster
Two: The Source of Righteousness
- God
- God's revealed standard
Three: The Transfer of Righteousness
- Our sin is met by God's forgiveness.
- God cleanses, forgives, and defends His people.
He will save his people from their sins ~ Matthew 1:21
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Lays a Snare
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Should We Care at All About What People Think?
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:20-23
Theme: How should we respond to the letter of Philippians?
One: We worship because God is Faithful
Two: We fellowship because we are God's family.
Three: We hope because God's kingdom is advancing.
Four: We endure because Christ is sufficient.
Five: We rejoice because our faith is anchored in all of the above.
Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ ~ Philippians 1:27
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Lays a Snare
Text: Isaiah 8
Theme: The Remedy of the Fear of Man Part 4
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:14-20
Theme: Giving is Gain.
My giving...
One: ...participates in both need and reward.
- Help for the receiver's need
- Gain to the giver's account
Two: ...is directed to both others and God.
- v.16 - you sent me help
- v.18 - the gifts you sent...an offering to God.
Three: ...includes both sacrifice and security.
- v.18 - full payment and sacrifice
- v.19 - giving, but gaining
Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ ~ Philippians 1:27
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:10-13
Theme: You Must Learn to be Content
One: Contentment is a conversation about faith.
Two: Contentment is aided by others who care.
Three: Contentment is applied to poverty and prosperity.
Four: Contentment is a mark of spiritual maturity.
Five: Contentment is fuled by the sufficiency of Christ.
Conclusion: Contentment is faith in the goodness of God to provide all you need to do the will of God, regardless of prosperity or ease.
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Lays a Snare
Text: Various Passages
Theme: The Remedy of the Fear of Man Part 3
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:8-9
Theme: Biblical Thinking for Godly Living
One: "Think about these things"
The process: intentional consideration or counting that leads to a conclusion.
The content: the virtues of God.
Two: "Practice these things."
The process: to _ repeatedly and habitually
The content: the _ from God
Three: See the promise.
A renewing of the mind leads to a _ of the life.
beliefe determines behavior.
Four: Hear the promise.
The promise of His presence.
The comfort of His peace.
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man That Leads to a Snare
Text: Various Passages
Theme: The Remedy of the Fear of Man Part 2
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:4-7
Theme: Are you guarded by peace?
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Leads to a Snare
Text: Various Passages
Theme: The Remedy for the Fear of Man
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:2-3
Theme: Work at unity in the church.
One: Unity defined as...agreement in the Lord.
Two: Unity aimed at...gospel mission.
Three: Unity bolstered by...mutual help.
Four: Unity built on...eternal life.
Five: Unity threatened by...me and you.
Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ ~ Philippians 1:27
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Lays a Snare
Text: Various Passages
Theme: Examples from Scripture of the Fear of Man
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 4:1
Theme: Stand firm
One: Therefore - a strong argument
Two: my brothers - a common bond
Three: whom I love and long for - a meaningful relationship
Four: my joy and my crown - an eternal prize
Five: stand firm in the Lord
- Against the enemies of the Lord
- By the grace of the Lord
- Through faith in the Lord
- In the strength of the Lord
- On the word of the Lord
Six: beloved - _-based love
Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of of Christ ~ Philippians 1:27
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Lays a Snare
Text: 1 Samuel 18
Theme: The Root of the Fear of Man
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 3:17-21
Theme: Imitate what is Good
Imitate what is Good...
One: with others who are pressing on for the prize.
Two: while resisting the powerful influence of the bad.
Three: to demonstrate your citizenship in God's kingdom
Four: knowing that your pursuit will end in complete success
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man that Lays a Snare
Theme: What is the Fear of Man?
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 3:12-16
Theme: Not yet perfect, but pressing on.
I'm not yet perfect...
One: ...but perfection is Christ's plan for me.
Two: ...but I am not satisfied with where I am.
Three: ...but I'm pressing toward the goal.
Four: ...but I must stay ready to learn.
Five: ...but I must _ what I already _.
Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ ~ Philippians 1:27
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Fear of Man
Text: Proverbs 29:25
Theme: The Fear of Man, or the Fear of God
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 3:4-11
Theme: You should treasure knowing Christ
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Leadership 103: Elders as Leaders
Text: Various Passages
Theme: The Caution in Eldership
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 3:4-11
Theme: Treasure the righteousness of Christ
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Leadership 103: Elders as Leaders
Text: Various Bible Passages
Theme: Common Objections to a Plurality of Elders
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: philipians 3
Theme: It is Good to be a Christian
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 2:19-30
Theme: Don't Neglect the Gift of Godly Role Models.
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Leadership 103: Elders as Leaders
Text: John 10
Theme: What Are Elders Supposed to Do?
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 2:14-18
Theme: Stop Grumbling and Disputing
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Leadership 103: Elders as Leaders
Theme: Survey of Early Church Leadership
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 2:12-13
Theme: You Must Work Out Your Salvation
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: Leadership 103: Elders as Leaders
Text: Various Passages
Theme: A Study of Shepherd, Elder, and Bishop in the Bible
Speaker: Adam Godshall
Series: The Joy Of Life In Christ
Text: Philippians 2
Theme: Humble Servants Will Be Exalted
Speaker: Adam
Series: Leadership 103: Elders As Leaders
Text: Exodus 18
Theme: Origins Of Eldership
Speaker: Jeremy Farmer
Text: 1 Corinthians 1-7
Theme: Gospel Growth in Corinth and Cambodia
The Power of 4 Things in Paul's Ministry:
One: Word (Preaching)
Two: Spirit (Prayer)
Three: Partnerships
Four: Perseverance
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 2:1-4
Theme: Since God has Lovingly Brought You Into Unity with Himself, You Should Lovingly Pursue Unity with Others
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:27-30
Theme: Your life should reflect the good news of Jesus Christ.
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:18-26
Theme: For me to live is Christ
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:12-18
Theme: Every Circumstance of Our Lives Should Serve the Advance of the Gospel.
Preface: What is the gospel?
- In a word: Christ
- In a sentence:
The gospel advances…
One: …at the cost of our comfort.
Two: …by our faithfulness to the truth.
Three: …through the imperfect work of others.
Four: …as a source of our joy.
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:6
Theme: We should ask God for spiritual growth.
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:6
Theme: We should trust God for final perfection…
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:3-5
Theme: We should thank God for Christian fellowship.
Series: Philippians: The Joy of Life in Christ
Text: Philippians 1:1-2
Theme: God is at work for our joy.
Series: Jonah: God's Sovereign Mercy
Text: Jonah 3
One: Sovereignty but responsibility
- God is sovereign; Salvation belongs to the Lord!
- Man is responsible…
- To believe the gospel
- To share the gospel
Two: Not overthrown but overthrown
- When we are in sin. we face being overthrown in God's judgment.
- When we are in Christ. we are being overthrown in God's sanctification.
Conclusions:
- As you read Jonah, think of Jesus.
- Salvation belongs to the Lord; trust him for it.
- Urge others to repent and believe.
- Keep growing. Be overthrown for good.
Salvation belongs to the Lord! ~ Joah 2:9
Series: Jonah: God's Sovereign Mercy
Text: Jonah 4
Theme: The Merciless Prophet
One: Successful but angry.
- What do you want?
- We must embrace God's will.
Two: Loved but hateful.
- We must not celebrate God's love while neglecting to share God's love.
- We must remember our rescue.
Three: Confronted but responsive?
- God patiently confronts our pride.
- We must allow God's Word to change us.
Series: Jonah: God's Sovereign Mercy
Text: Jonah 3
Theme: The Mercy of Repentance
One: Wicked…
- A description of their actions
- The condition of their hearts
…but receptive
- Faith = a turning to God
- Repentance = a turning from sin
- Marks of true repentance:
- A sorrow over sin
- An appeal for mercy
- A rejection of sin
Two: Undeserving but forgiven
- Sinners deserve judgment.
- Christ suffered God's judgment so sinners can be forgiven.
Salvation belongs to the Lord! ~ Jonah 2:9
Series: Jonah: God's Sovereign Mercy
Text: Jonah 1:17-2:10
Theme: Jonah's progression from rebellion, to repentance, to restoration.
One: Historic but prophetic
- Jonah and Jesus were buried for 3 days
- Jonah and Jesus were raised the third days
- Jonah and Jesus proclaimed repentance
- [Remember, Jonah but Jesus]
Two: Punished but penitent
- God keeps us from the ruin of sin by a severe mercy
- In repentance, we desire God's presence
Three: Disobedient but delivered
- Sinners run from God, but he seeks and saves.
- God appoints the means and accomplishes the end of our salvation.
Salvation belongs to the Lord! ~ Jonah 2:9
Series: Jonah: God's Sovereign Mercy
Text: Jonah 1
Theme: Obeying God's Command
One: Commissioned but AWOL
- "Arise, go" vs. "rose to flee"
- What do I think of God's commands?
Two: Great but godless
- The gospel is better than any human standard of greatness.
- God is merciful to arrogant sinners.
Three: Hiding but seen
- We foolishly think we can hide from God.
- God sees and knows everything.
Salvation belongs to the Lord! ~ Jonah 2:9
Series: Jonah
Text: Jonah
Theme: A familiar story of mercy and salvation
Historical Context
- 2 Kings 14:25 - Jeroboam II; Northern tribes of Israel.
- c.750 BC; Israel falls to Assyria in 722 BC.
A Theme of Sovereign Mercy
Jonah, but Jesus
- The Old Testament begins a story that is completed in Christ.
- Jonah – buried for 3 days in the belly of the fish and brought up alive – is a vivid illustration of the death and resurrection of the Messiah.
A Prophecy in Story
- Of the universal scope of God's redeeming love
- Of the Jewish aversion to Gentile inclusion
Salvation belongs to the Lord! ~ Jonah 2:9
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 1:8; Acts 8:4
Theme: Tensions that shape our outreach strategies
Tension #6: Extended, ongoing relationships vs. brief, one-time encounters.
Tension #7: Scholarly defense of the gospel vs. simple statements of the gospel.
Tension #8: Sovereignty and the power of God's Word, vs. persuasion and the power of my words.
Tension #9: Testimony of words vs testimony of works.
Tension #10: Faith for risk vs wisdom for safety.
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 1:8; Acts 8:4
Theme: Tensions that shape our outreach strategy.
Tension #1: Awareness vs. engagement.
Tension #2: Individual effort vs. corporate program.
Tension #3: The sheer joy of witnessing vs. the stark obedience of witnessing.
Tension #4: Compassion for sinners vs. condemnation of sin.
Tension #5: Bold persistence vs. bold intolerance.
Special: Resurrection Sunday
Text: Acts 26:12-23
Theme: The light of the gospel shines from an empty tomb.
One: Gospel light has the power to transform lives.
- to open their eyes
- to turn them from darkness to light
- to turn them from the power of Satan to God
- to forgive sins
- to give them a place in God's family
Two: Gospel light is received by repentance and faith.
- Repentance = a turning FROM sin
- Faith = a turning TO God
Three: Gospel light is anchored to the power and hope of the resurrection.
Christ…being the first to rise from the dead…would proclaim light. ~ Acts 26:23
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 28:17-31
Theme: Last instructions for witnesses
One: Aim for opportunities to talk.
Two: Communicate a genuine hope.
Three: Anchor your witness to the Bible.
Four: Understand the possible results.
Five: Be ready in any context to speak of God.
Six: Believe in the gospel's success.
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 28:11-16
Theme: How do we keep in mind the big picture of kingdom advance?
One: View perceived delays as God's plan.
Two: Remember that you live as a witness among unbelief.
Three: Rest in God's promise-keeping.
Four: Be encouraged by other believers and their gifts.
Five: Trace the simple kindness of God in your life.
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 27:1 - 28:10
Theme: Advancing the kingdom when daily life is hard.
One: Know that everyone faces the storms of life.
Two: Believe that nothing hinders God's plan.
Three: Take courage from what God promises.
Four: Remember that you belong to God.
Five: Encourage others by sharing your hope.
Six: Use healing and rescue as <## data-preserve-html-node="true"> of the gospel.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 25-26
Theme: See how the resurrection anchors the gospel.
One: Jesus died.
Two: Jesus rose from the dead.
Three: God has a plan to save sinners.
Four: Christians aren't crazy.
Five: Christians have hope.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 24:1-27
Theme: You should consider how your Christian witness is perceived in order to give the right opinion of God.
Is your witness…
One: …concerned about truth?
Two: …peaceful in manner?
Three: …committed to God (and the word He gave us)?
Four: …confident in the resurrection?
Five: …consistent with behavior?
Six: …focused on faith?
Seven: …convicting with context?
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 23:11-35
Theme: You can know, and then rest in, the providence of God.
One: God has a plan.
Two: God is faithful to his promises.
Three: God is with us on our pilgrim journey.
Four: God knows all things.
Five: God accomplishes his will – sometimes through unique ways.
Six: We must not define providence solely by our comfort.
Seven: We must trust God to work all things for his glory and for our good.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 22:30-23:11
Theme: You can have a confident witness in the face of constant opposition.
One: Know the world you live in.
- Expect opposition.
- Exercise your rights in service of the gospel.
Two: Keep your conscience clear.
- Definition = your standard for right and wrong.
- Your conscience must be shaped by God's truth about right and wrong.
Three: Be wise with your use of truth.
- Aim for the heart of the matter.
- Aim to unsettle the unbelief.
Four: Rest in God's faithfulness.
- Remember God's presence.
- Remember God's purpose.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 21:37-22:21
Theme: You must be ready to tell your story of faith in Jesus.
One: As a witness…engage people strategically.
- Be asertive
- Be defensive
- Be relational
- Build a bridge
Two: As a witness…follow the rescue storyline.
- Before faith in Christ
- Encountering Christ
- Living for Christ
Three: As a witness…trust God with the results.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 21:17-36
Theme: We must accept suffering as God's will.
One: Doing God's will includes suffering.
- That's the story of Paul's ministry.
- That's the truth of Bible teaching.
- That's the example of stormy seas.
- That's the reason for God's promise.
Two: God uses suffering to accomplish his will.
- The advance of the gospel.
- The gospel itself.
Three: We must trust God's perfect plan to use our suffering.
Four: We must trust God's faithful promise to end our suffering.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 21:1-16
Theme: Doing God's will in the face of suffering.
Question: Was Paul right or wrong to go to Jerusalem?
Answer to the Question: Paul was right to go.
Reasons that Support the Answer:
- Paul's ministry is characterized by the Spirit's leading.
- Paul's reasons for going to Jerusalem were good.
- Paul knew the Spirit's constraint to take this specific trip.
- The Spirit had revealed an awaiting danger.
- Danger was a part of Paul's commission to ministry.
- Paul doesn't consider this decision to be a mistake.
- Paul later considers this outcome as a gospel benefit.
- The people cannot press their conclusions on Paul, and yield to the will of God.
- We must consider what the Spirit actually said.
- The Lord's confirmation of the visit to Jerusalem.
Applications:
- Daily cultivate a heart that is submissive to the Spirit.
- Define God's will by his revealed Word.
- Face uncertainty and known hardships with faith.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 20:28-38
Theme: What should a congregation expect from overseers?
One: A congregation should expect to be warned about false teaching.
- The means: distort truth and draw away
- The end: harm to the flock
Two: A congregation should expect to be encouraged in meaningful relationships.
- Investment of time
- Investment of truth
Three: A congregation should expect to be directed to the Chief Shepherd.
- Commended to the person of God
- Commended to the promises of God
Four: A congregation should expect to be called to diligent service.
- Hard work to help the weak
- True gain comes by giving
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Series: Christmas Hope
Text: Matthew 1; John 1
Theme: The Light shines in the darkness.
One: Rejoice that you are in the Light.
Two: Trust the Light for daily guidance.
Three: Shine the Light in the darkness.
Four: Hope in the victory of the Light.
Series: Christmas Hope
Text: Matthew 1
Theme: God uses broken people.
One: Brokenness is every person's story.
Two: Brokenness points to our need for a Savior.
Three: Brokenness reveals the wonder of grace.
Four: Brokenness itself will be broken.
Series: Christmas Hope
Text: Matthew 1
Theme: God saves his people.
One: We are sinners.
- We have rejected the rule of God = rebels.
- We have earned the wages of sin = death.
Two: We need to be rescued.
- From the future consequences of sin = eternal judgment
- From the present consequences of sin = futility and self-destruction
Three: God rescues his people through Jesus.
- Jesus = God saves
- Immanuel = God with us
Four Questions:
- A Ransom From What?
- A Ransom By What?
- A Ransom To What?
- A Ransom Paid to Whom?
Series: Christmas Hope
Text: Matthew 1
Theme: God keeps his promises.
One: God's promises revealed the hope of gospel remedy.
Two: God's promises pictured the work of our Messiah.
Three: God's promises emphasized a son as the savior.
Four: God's promises anticipate a final victory and a new creation.
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 20:28
Theme: The Role of Careful Oversight
One: Careful oversight…
Two: …should be diligently exercised…
- Inward - over self
- Outward - over disciples
Three: …by qualified elders
- About elders…
- Multiple elders in each church
- Also called bishop & pastor
- Following the Holy Spirit
- Imitating the work of Christ
Four: …over God's church.
- Purchased with his blood
- Secured by his love
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 20:17-27
Theme: How can you live a model life?
One: Serve with humility.
- As to the Lord
- When life is hard
Two: Speak with truth.
- The truth of the Word's benefit
- The truth of the gospel's demands
Three: Live by faith.
- Faith - in the Spirit's leading
- Faith - in the face of uncertainty
- Faith - in the light of eternal values
Four: Rest in grace.
- Enabling grace
- Forgiving grace
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 20:1-16
Theme: Encouragement is essential in the daily work of kingdom living.
One: Encouragement is purposeful in giving.
Two: Encouragement is necessary for weakness.
Three: Encouragement is fostered by cooperation.
Four: Encouragement is anchored to God's Word.
Five: Encouragement is representative of new life.
Text: 2 Kings 6:24-7:20
- We become selfish about good stuff
- We become silent about good news
- We become skeptical of a good God
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 19:1-41
Theme: The name of the Lord Jesus is the power for Kingdom advance.
One: The power for discipleship based on the truth.
Two: The power for boldness in the face of unbelief.
Three: The power for healing as a picture of salvation.
Four: The power for holiness in response to Christ's value.
Five: The power for protection in the midst of opposition.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 18:18-28
Theme: God uses the unique gifts of his people for the advance of the kingdom.
One: Paul – off the stage.
Two: Apollos – a rising star.
- Eloquent, competent in the Word
- Instructed, fervent, accurate
- Bold, humble
Three: Priscilla & Aquila – behind the scenes.
- A gentle approach
- An encouraging approach
- A truth-based approach
Conclusion
- You must pursue competence in the Word.
- You must use your gifts in the church.
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 18:1-17
Theme: We must hear the Lord's encouragement to offset our fear in sharing the gospel.
One: A Common Hurdle
- God's people have often struggled with fear.
- How do we know Paul was afraid?
Two: The Simple Instructions
- Stop being afraid.
- Keep on speaking.
Three: The Convincing Reason
- God's powerful presence
- God's sovereign electiom
- Election glorifies God
- Election fuels evangelism
Conclusion: Believe God's promise to you; proclaim God's gospel to others.
You will receive power…you will be my witnesses… ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 17:16-34
Theme: We must share the gospel; it fills the void that sin leaves
One: The void sin leaves reveals sin's lie.
Two: The void sin leaves masquerades as enlightenment.
Three: The void sin leaves drives a perpetual search.
Four: The void sin leaves rejects God's revelation.
Five: The void sin leaves leads to final judgment.
Six: The void sin leaves necessitates a gospel witness.
Seven: The void sin leaves is remedied by repentence and faith in Jesus.
Series: The Gospel of Mark
Text: Mark 1:35-2:12
The Leper
- The condition of the man
- The compassion of Jesus
- The contradiction of gratitude
The Paralytic
- The description of the man
- The diagnosis of Jesus
- The discrediting of the scribes
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 17:1-15
Theme: You must speak the truth that can transform an unbeliever's heart – that can turn his world upside down.
One: The tool of turning the world upside down: the gospel.
- The righteous life of Christ
- The atoning death of Christ
- The victorious resurrection of Christ
- The advancing kingdom of Christ
Two: The method of turning the world upside down: Biblical conversation.
Three: The cost of turning the world upside down: antagonism.
Four: The result of turning the world upside down: conversion.
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 16:11-40
Theme: God opens hearts to salvation...
One: ...through our obedience to the Great Commission.
Two: ...as illustrated by the freedom from spiritual darkness.
Three: ...by circumstances that we may not like or understand.
Four: ...in the simple message of faith in Jesus.
Conclusion:
- Be clear with the good news.
- Be sure that God can save.
- Be aware that today's circumstances may be ordained to open hearts.
- Be ready with the answer.
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 15:36-16:10
Theme: Five questions to ask when making significant & kingdom-advancing decisions.
One: How does this fit in the big picture of kingdom advance?
Two: How can differing gifts be used well?
Three: How am I making disciples?
Four: How do I best serve the gospel?
Five: How am I surrendered to the Spirit?
- Be willing to let go.
- Be willing to pick up.
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 14:19-23
Theme: You must contribute to the strengthening of disciples.
How can you strengthen other Christians?
One: Model a defiant endurance.
Two: Obey the Great Comission
- Spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.
- Make disciples of Jesus Christ.
Three: Encourage a robust theology.
Four: Acknowledge a difficult journey.
Five: Grow with God's family.
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 14
Theme: The kingdom will advance through tribulation.
- The kingdom will advance...
- v.1 – a great number believed
- v.21 – made many discipled
- v.26 – the work fulfilled
- Through tribulation...
- v.1-2 – the truth divides
- v.2 – the animosity of darkness
- v.5,19 – the threat of suffering
- By means of...
- v.1-3 – God's witnesses
- v.7 – God's gospel
- v.8-10 – God's power
- v.17 – God's grace
- v.21-28 – God's church
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Resources mentioned:
- You Can Change by Tim Chester
- Devoted to God: Blueprints for Sanctification by Sinclair Ferguson
- The Hole In Our Holiness by Kevin DeYoung
- The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul
Acts: 18. We must continue to grow in our understanding of God's plan for spreading the gospel.
Acts: 17. As your life is transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ, you advance the kingdom and glorify God.
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 5:12-42
Theme: You must show and tell the Life that is found in Jesus.
One: The definition of this Life – 30-31
- Atoning Death
- Victorious Resurrection
- Sovereign Reign
- Gracious Salvation
Two: The reality of this Life – 12-14
- Belief & Unbelief
- The hope of the advance of the kingdom
Three: The illustration of this Life – 15-16
Four: The opposition to this Life – 17-18, 40
Five: The triumph of this Life – 19, 24, 41-42
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 5:1-11
Theme: Be Filled With God's Truth to Crowd Out Satan's Lies.
What truth crowds out the lies? Truth about...
One: ...the generosity that love produces – v.4:23-37
- Generosity is a love-motivated sharing.
- Generosity involves biblical discernment.
Two: ...the temptation that Satan designs – v.5:3
- Satan appeals to our desires.
- Satan desires our ruin.
Three: ...the holiness that God demands – v.4-5, 9-10
- God is holy.
- Therefore, sin is costly.
Four: ...the choices that you make – v.2-4
- Trust and obey.
- Confess and forsake.
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 4:23-37
Theme: The church's boldness must be anchored in the sovereignty of God.
God's sovereignty is revealed in...
One: ...the authority of the master over the servant – v.24ff
Two: ...His creation of all things – v.24
Three: ...His rule over rebel nations – v.25-26
Four: ...the death of Christ in the plan of God – v.27-28
Five: ...the boldness of the church to speak truth – v.29
Six: ...the resurrection of Jesus from the dead – v.33
Seven: ...the church's generosity at personal cost – v.32
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 4:1-22
Theme: We must be clear that Jesus - only Jesus - is the way to heaven.
"Jesus, Only Jesus" represents...
One: ...an irritation to unbelievers - v.1-3
Two: ...the power of God for salvation - v.4
Three: ...the Spirit-enabled answer for our hope - v.5-10
Four: ...the exclusive way to eternal life - v.11-12
Five: ...the testimony of life transformation - v.13-14
Six: ...the measure of true authority - v.15-22
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 3:1-26
Theme: Jesus can transform your life.
A Sign: from lame to leaping
(About Miraculous Gifts)
- God can do miracles.
- Miraculous gifts are observed in 4 primary eras: Moses; Elijah & Elisha; Jesus; Apostles.
- The purpose is to authenticate God's revelation.
A Sermon
- Sinners are trapped in sin's ruin.
- The gospel is the power of God for salvation.
- Salvation will culminate in the full restoration of a new creation.
Conclusion
- What did Peter have? ("what I do have I give to you")
- A: the gospel of the transforming power of Jesus Christ
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 2:41-47
Theme: As the family of God, we must commit to living our Christian lives together.
One: Commit to the Apostles' Teaching
- Jesus' commission
- Peter's example : Jesus is the risen Christ and the ruling Lord
- The written record (the canon of Scripture)
Two: Commit to Fellowship = something in common
- Celebrating our bond
- Sharing our needs
Three: Commit to Breaking of Bread
- The Lord's Supper
- The common meals
Four: Commit to Prayer
- For understanding and application of the Word
- For one another's needs
- For daily bread and love to share it
- For God's work among us: awe, favor, & fruit
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 2:22-41
Theme: Jesus Christ is Lord
Taking Notes on Peter's Sermon
Jesus of Nazareth - v.22
- God's agent of redemption
- Confirmed by signs
Crucified and Killed - v.23
- The sinful plan of men
- The definite plan on God
God Raised Him Up - v.24
- The death of death
- According to God's plan
Exalted at the right hand of God - v.33
- Jesus gave the Spirit
- For the advance of the Kingdom
God Has Made Him Both Lord and Christ - v.36
- Certainty of His rule
- Certainty of our guilt
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 2:1-21
Theme: God gives the Spirit to empower his witnesses to advance the kingdom.
What Makes Pentecost So Significant?
One: The Building of God's Church
Two: The Wonder of God's Presence
Three: The Filling by God's Spirit
Four: The Certainty of God's Word
Five: The Invitation of God's Salvation
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts: The Advance of the Kingdom
Text: Acts 1:12-26
Theme: We must take steps of faith while waiting on God's plan.
One: Remember that Jesus is Lord.
- What he said we should do.
- What he said he would do.
Two: Find the value of unity in the family of God.
Three: Pray with other Christians.
Four: Seek to determine God's will.
- Know God's word.
- Pray for direction.
- Surrender your control.
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts
Text: Acts 1:6-11
One: You must understand the kingdom.
- Its nature: it is spiritual
- Its scope: it is universal
- Its time: now and then
Two: You must understand kingdom advance.
- How? The power of the Spirit
- What? Be witnesses
- Where? Everywhere
Three: You must understand the kingdom's King.
- Taken to heaven
- Coming again
You will receive power...you will be my witnesses... ~ Acts 1:8
Series: Acts
Text: Acts 1:1-5
The Story Continues
- Acts is the sequel to the Gospel of Luke.
- Luke traveled with Paul.
- The apostles, the church, and the Holy Spirit all glorify the work of Jesus Christ.
3 Realities that Enable that Continuing Gospel Story
- The hope of the resurrection
- The victory of the Kingdom
- The presence of the Holy Spirit
Theme of the Continuing Story
- The advancement of the Kingdom
In the first book...all that Jesus began to do and teach... ~ Acts 1:1
Series: Haggai: Consider Your Ways
Text: Haggai 2:20-23
God's reign is seen in two promised events:
- The judgment of the nations
- The triumph of the Messiah.
Reasons for our hope in God's reign:
- Because our God is the Lord of Hosts
- Because our God is faithful to his covenant promises
- Because the gospel is the power of God
- Because Christ is King
Now, therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways. ~ Haggai 1:5
Series: Haggai: Consider Your Ways
Text: Haggai 2:10-19
The Hope of Holiness
One: Holiness doesn't just happen.
Two: Sin never ultimately satisfies.
Three: Mercy makes for new beginnings.
Four: Grace gives blessing for nothing.
Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways. ~ Haggai 1:5
Series: Haggai: Consider Your Ways
Text: Haggai 2:1-9
Finding Your Significance in God's Plan
Discouragement: A longing for obvious significance.
Encouragement: An understanding of present significance.
- God's presence with us
- God's purpose for us
- Be strong
- Work
- Fear not
Encouragement: A hope in future significance.
- God will receive glory through Christ in the church.
Conclusions:
- Don't search for significance in shallow comparisons.
- Invest in God's agenda.
- Rest in the victory that will be fully revealed.
Now, therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways. ~ Haggai 1:5
Series: Consider Your Ways
Text: Haggai 1:1-15
What does it look like to consider our ways?
One: Stop trying to justify your apathy.
Two: Examine closely the evidence of your priorities.
Three: Recognize the cause of your dissatisfaction.
Four: Take practical steps of worshipful obedience.
Four: Renew your mind with what God says.
Six: Yield to the Spirit's leading to do kingdom work.
- Romans 15:5 - Patience and Encouragement
- Romans 15:7 - Welcome
- Romans 15:14 - Goodness, Knowledge
- Romans 16:16 - Greet one another
Series: Haggai: Consider Your Ways
Text: Haggai
All Scripture is Profitable.
The Role of the Prophet: to reveal God's truth to the people by the Spirit.
Two Challenges:
- Prophetic fog - intentional ambiguity; we don't get all the details
- Prophetic form - the use of figurative language and a sense of imminence
The Big Question: What did the prophets say that stirred these people to do God's work?
The Theme of Haggai: Consider your ways!
Lessons for us:
- Trust God's control.
- Receive God's grace.
- Believe God's word.
Now, therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways. ~ Haggai 1:5
Series: Beginning with Moses: Bible Overview 4 of 4
Text: Luke 24:27 And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
The New Testament
One: The Gospels: the introduction to the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Two: The Acts: the proclamation of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Three: The Letters: the explanation of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Four: Revelation: the consummation of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion:
- The Old Testament is the preparation for a person.
- The New Testament is the manifestation of that person.
- The whole Bible is the revelation of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
For all the promises of God find their Yes in Jesus Christ. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:20
Series: How We Related to Each Other: a study of the "one another" passages in the New Testament.
Texts: Colossians 3:9-10, Titus 3:1-7, James 4:11-12, James 5:7-9
Series: Beginning with Moses: Bible Overview 3 of 4
Text: Luke 24:27 And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
The Books of the Prophecy
One: The Content of the Books of Prophecy.
- Preaching
- Predictions
Two: The Issue of the Books of Prophecy.
- The issue is loyalty.
Three: The Function of the Books of Prophecy
- To prepare us for a perfect Prophet with a perfect message.
Conclusion: The Old Testament is unsatisfying.
For all the promises of God find their Yes in Jesus Christ. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:20
Series: How We Related to Each Other: a study of the "one another" passages in the New Testament.
Texts: 1 Corinthians 4:6-7, 1 Corinthians 6:1, 2 Corinthians 10:12, Galatians 5:13-15, Galatians 5:26
- Puffed up in favor of one against another
- Taking a grievance against one another to the unrighteous
- Comparing themselves to one another
- Bite and devour one another
- Conceited, provoking one another, envying one another
Series: Beginning with Moses: Bible Overview 2 of 4
Text: Luke 24:27 And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
The Books of History
One: The Content of the Books of History
- Hope
- Disappointment
Two: The Issue of the Books of History
- The issue is Leadership
Three: The Function of the Books of History
- To prepare us for a perfect King with a perfect kingdom.
The Books of Poetry
(Wisdom Literature)
One: The Content of the Books of Poetry
- Psalms = the will of the perfect Leader
- Proverbs = the wisdom of the perfect Leader
- Ecclesiastes = the values of the perfect Leader
- Song of Solomon = the heart of the perfect Leader
Two: The Issue of the Books of Poetry
- The issue is character
Three: The Function of the Books of Poetry
- To create a longing for the perfect Leader.
For all the promises of God find their Yes in Jesus Christ. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:20
Series: How We Relate to Other: a study of the "one another" passages
Texts: Matthew 24:9-10, Mark 9:33-35, Luke 12:1, John 5:30-44, Acts 15:36-39, Romans 14:13
- "And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another" - Matthew 24:9-10
- "They had argued with one another about who was the greatest" - Mark 9:33-35
- "When so many thousands of the people had gathered together that they were trampling one another" - Luke 12:1
- "How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?" - John 5:44
- "And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other." - Acts 15:39
- "Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer" - Romans 14:13
Series: Beginning with Moses: Bible Overview 1 of 4
Text: Luke 24:27 And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
The Books of the Law
(The Torah in Hebrew; the Pentateuch in Greek = 5 books)
One: The content of the Books of the Law
- Laws
- Sacrifices
Two: The issue of the Books of the Law
- The issue is holiness.
- God is holy, and man is sinful.
Three: The function of the Books of the Law
- To prepare us for a perfect Priest with a perfect sacrifice.
- To create a longing for a better covenant.
For all the promises of God find their Yes in Jesus Christ. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:20
Series: How We Relate to Others: a study of the "one another" passages
Text: John 13:34-35
Three reasons to love one another:
- Jesus commands you to love one another.
- Because Jesus loved you.
- Love marks you as a follower of Christ.
Theme: New beginnings give us hope for the New Year.
One: New beginnings are God's idea.
Two: God graciously offers us the continual hope of new beginnings.
- New beginnings reflect the power and goodness of creation.
- New beginnings in this life are not without groanings.
- New beginnings are possible because of God's promises.
- New beginnings unfold the gospel of a new creation.
- New beginnings sustain our daily endurance.
- New beginnings shape our future hope.
The steadfast lof of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ~ Lamentations 3:22-23
Series: Finding Joy in the Nativity
Text: Luke 1-2
Theme: You must find joy in knowing the Savior.
Jesus _is_ the joy!
Why do we need to be reminded that Jesus is the joy?
One: At times we want the material blessings from Jesus more than we want Jesus.
Two: At times we ask lesser things than Jesus to satisfy our craving for joy.
Three: At times we settle for partial joys of lesser things.
Four: Lest we send a mixed message about the Good News of great joy for all people.
Five: At times we think that Jesus leads to joy.
Series: Finding Joy in the Nativity
Text: Matthew 1:18-25
Theme: You should find joy in believing God's words.
One: What makes it hard to believe God's words?
Two: What does it mean to believe God's words?
- Know God's words.
- Count God's words as true.
- Be affected by God's words.
Three: What were the words to be believed?
- A successful Savior.
- A triumphant kingdom.
call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. ~ Matthew 1:21
Series: Finding Joy in the Nativity
Text: Luke 2:8-20
Theme: You should find joy in sharing your hope.
One: Hear the good news.
- A divine appointment in everyday life.
- True joy for those who need it.
Two: Believe the good news.
Three: Share the good news.
- a hint of the sharing – v.10 – for all the people
- a definition of the sharing – v.17 – they made known
Four: Rejoice in the good news.
They made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. ~ Luke 2:17
Pray: Psalm 119:18 Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things in your law.
Text to Read: 1 Peter 1:13-19
Think: Philippians 4:8 whatever is true...think about these things
Write:
- 💡 Something to see. What shines in this passage? What draws attention? What is the main idea? What character of God is displayed? What key words shape the text?
- ❓ Something to ask. What is difficult to understand? How are the connecting words used to steer the flow of thought? (for, as, therefore, so that, but, since, if/then)
- ➡️ Something to do. What should I do with these verses? What needs to change in my life in order to obey? What motivation is offered? What promise to trust? What sin to avoid? What example to follow?
- 📖 Somewhere to look. What other verse or phrase of the Bible comes to mind? Is there another passage that might help address your questions?
- 🙏 Something to pray. What should I pray based on these verses?
- 🙂 Someone to tell. Who would benefit from hearing your thoughts? Who might be able to answer your question?
Series: Finding Joy in the Nativity
Text: Luke 1 & 2, Matthew 1 & 2
Theme: You should find joy in serving the King.
What do the angelic appearances of the advent teach us about serving the King?
One: Serving means doing God's will.
Two: Serving means sharing God's truth.
Three: Serving meanas hoping in God's gospel.
I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. ~ Luke 1:19
Pray: Psalm 119:18 Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things in your law.
Text to Read: Psalm 23
Think: Philippians 4:8 whatever is true...think about these things
Write:
- 💡 Something to see. What shines in this passage? What draws attention? What is the main idea? What character of God is displayed? What key words shape the text?
- ❓ Something to ask. What is difficult to understand? How are the connecting words used to steer the flow of thought? (for, as, therefore, so that, but, since, if/then)
- ➡️ Something to do. What should I do with these verses? What needs to change in my life in order to obey? What motivation is offered? What promise to trust? What sin to avoid? What example to follow?
- 📖 Somewhere to look. What other verse or phrase of the Bible comes to mind? Is there another passage that might help address your questions?
- 🙏 Something to pray. What should I pray based on these verses?
- 🙂 Someone to tell. Who would benefit from hearing your thoughts? Who might be able to answer your question?
What we can learn about evangelism from Jesus sharing the Living Water with the woman at the well.
Equip Hour: Committing to the Church: Building a foundation of general theological principles for committing to the church, and some practical methods of commitment.
It is good to worship the Lord who is the God of every perfection, and whose nature is expressed in his works so that we will be glad.
From Psalm 130 we hear five things the psalmist calls us to pursue as we wait for the Lord.
List of Questions:
• Should a Christian couple have children?
• How many kids should Christians have?
• How do you know if your quiver is full?
• How to structure family worship?
• What is the most important thing a father or mother should focus on?
Hear from Psalm 114 how the psalmist calls our attention to God's glory through the salvation of His people.
9 Marks: Part 12 — A look at Grace Bible Church in light of the 9 Marks of a Healthy Church.
9 Marks: Part 11 — A look at Grace Bible Church in light of the 9 Marks of a Healthy Church.
9 Marks: Part 10 — A mark of a healthy church is a biblical understanding and practice of missions.
Passing Through — Part 21: This is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. ~ 1 Peter 5:12
Passing Through — Part 20: Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion... ~ 1 Peter 5:8
9 Marks: Part 8 — A healthy church is marked by a biblical understanding of the gospel.
Passing Through — Part 19: As a follower of Christ, you should live in evident humility.
Passing Through — Part 17: As a pilgrim, you must face hostility with confidence in God's will.
9 Marks: Part 5 — A healthy church must have a biblical understanding of conversion and evangelism.
Passing Through — Part 15: [L]ive for the rest of your time...for the will of God. ~ 1 Peter 4:2
9 Marks: Part 3 — A key mark of a health church is the concern for biblical discipleship in the body.
Passing Through — Part 14: Though you may suffer for doing good, Christ will lead you safely home.
9 Marks: Part 2 — The foundational mark of a healthy church is that it is committed to God's Word.
Passing Through — Part 13: Opposition to your pilgrim faith cannot, and therefore must not, diminish your pilgrim faith.
9 Marks: Part 1 — Introduction to the next series in the Equip hour, as we will start looking at the 4th edition of 9 Marks of a Healthy Church.
Passing Through — Part 11: Our allegiance to Christ means that we will be different in the way we approach marriage.
Passing Through — Part 1: We must live as followers of Jesus Christ in the face of hostility ... steadied by grace.
What We Teach — The GBC Doctrinal Statement: Part 8 - Now you are the body of Christ...
What We Teach — GBC Doctrinal Statement: Part 7 - Justification, Sanctification, and Perseverance.
What We Teach — GBC Doctrinal Statement: Part 2 - If you open the Bible and read it in faith, then...
Progress as Promised: Part 19 - Fear the Lord. Serve the Lord. Put away any other gods.
Progress as Promised: Part 18 - From Joshua 23 we study what should motivate us to faithfulness.
Progress as Promised: Part 16 - How can we fulfill our role as the New Testament priesthood?
Progress as Promised: Part 15 - We learn three lessons from the cities of refuge described in Joshua 20.
Progress as Promised: Part 14 - We take look at the second theme of the book of Joshua, the inheritance promised by God.
Progress as Promised: Part 12 - We need a fresh look at God if we are to answer this question biblically.
Progress as Promised: Part 6 - Three events that lead us to see that the hope of a fresh start today rests in Christ
Progress as Promised: Part 5 - Memorials should steer us to remember, so what do we remember from the memorials we find here in Joshua 4?
Progress as Promised: Part 2 - See four reasons to be strong and courageous from Joshua 1
Progress as Promised: Part 1 - Five insights into this promise that is foundational to the book of Joshua
We learn from the example of Joshua that we are to be ready at any time to be used by God.
This Easter Sunday, we take a look at the significance of the 30 pieces of silver paid to Judas, and how it points us to the good news of Christ our Redeemer.
Stick to the Truth: Part 19 - The conclusion to the letter calls you to three responses
Stick to the Truth: Part 17 - See four main directives in the text that instruct us to obey
Stick to the Truth: Part 15 - In part two, we look at the relationships to elders and masters.
Stick to the Truth: Part 11 - This week we look at the verse that shapes this study of sticking to the truth.
Stick to the Truth: Part 9 — The first in a two part study on what a biblical deacon is.
Stick to the Truth: Part 8 — Paul lays out qualifications for those in church leadership
Stick to the Truth: Part 7 — There is information to be learned from the New Testament about the role of pastor.
Stick to the Truth: Part 6 — Hear Paul's directives to overcome the disruptions to worship in the church
Stick to the Truth: Part 3 — An outburst of praise from Paul in one of his many doxological exclamations in his letters.
Stick to the Truth: Part 2 — The power of the gospel completely transformed the life of Paul
The Wisdom of Solomon: Part 12: Hear the wisdom from the Proverbs for parents, and for those being parented.
The Wisdom of Solomon: Part 8: We must hear that there is a condition to recieving wisdom.
The Wisdom of Solomon: Part 7: You are called to self-control through God's strength given to you for sanctification.
The Wisdom of Solomon: Part 4: "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise."
Part 5 of the series Living By Faith When I Don't Like God's Plan
Video of the full service on YouTube
Part 4 of the series Living By Faith When I Don't Like God's Plan
Video of the full service on YouTube
Part 3 of the series Living By Faith When I Don't Like God's Plan
Video of the full service on YouTube
Part 2 of the series Living By Faith When I Don't Like God's Plan
Video of the full service on YouTube
Part 1 of the series Living By Faith When I Don't Like God's Plan
Video of the full service on YouTube
God’s Power…in building his church through Jesus Christ for his own glory.
Video of the full service
Controlled by the Spirit you can fulfill your God-given role submissively.
Video of the full service
Text: Matthew 21:1-11
Theme: God is unfolding His plan whether we see it or not. The focus of this plan is Jesus.
Video of the service
The Donkey Who Carried a King - Book by R.C. Sproul
Study Guide for Matthew 21:12-17
Four Unfailing Promises * God's love for me will never change * God's purpose for me is Christ-likeness * God's grace for me is all sufficient * God's word for me is the final right answer
Video of the Sermon
Video of the music service
Text: Ephesians 5
Theme: God's Calling …in building his church through Jesus Christ for his own glory.
Video of the full service
- Read Ephesians 5:8 and then study light in the following texts: Prov 4:18; Isaiah 60:1; Matt 5:13-16; John 8:12; 2 Corinthians 4:4; 1 John 1:5-7
- Look through the Ephesian letter to see the number of uses of the idea of “fullness”: 1:23; 3:19; 4:10; 4:13
- How does 1 Peter 1:13-16 echo Ephesians 4-5?
- Read Titus 3:8 as further commentary on Eph 5:11-16.
Text: Ephesians 4
Theme: God’s Design …in building his church through Jesus Christ for his own glory.
- Let your eyes fall on multiple uses of the word “all” and the word “one” in verses 1-6. Can you see how this shapes a foundation for unity?
- Read Psalm 133. You will encounter “unity” in v.1, and what is found at the very end of the Psalm? How are these two ideas connected?
- Think of one person to show special kindness to today.
Video of the full service
Text: Ephesians 2:11-3:21
Theme: God's reconciliation ...in building his church through Jesus Christ for his own glory.
Video of full service
Download Sermon Notes PDF
- Consider the Old Testament revelation of God’s plan to save his people out of all the nations. We see the hope of reconciliation in: Genesis 12:3, 22:18, 26:4, 28:14; Psalm 67 & 72; Isaiah 11:10, 49:6, 60:1-3; Hosea 1:10; Amos 9:11-12
- Add to that Ephesians 2:11-22 and Colossians 1:18-23.
Series: Side By Side
Based on the book by Edward Welch.
This week:
- Hard circumstances meet busy hearts
- Sin weighs a lot
Text: Ephesians 2:1-10
Theme: God's grace...in his plan to build his church through Jesus Christ for his own glory.
Video of the full service
- Make this week a study of good works. Nail down the place of good works before salvation from Ephesians 2:8-9.
- Now look over a number of verses that show you the place of good works once you have believed in Jesus for salvation. James 2:17-26 is a summary of true faith lived out with good works. See also: Colossians 1:10; 2 Timothy 3:17; Titus 2:14 and 3:1, 8.
Text: Ephesians 1
Theme: God's Sovereignty
- We sang Come, Behold the Wondrous Mystery together on Sunday. Look it up online; listen to it; learn it; use it to worship. God’s made known the mystery to you!
- Take a survey trip through the book of Ephesians following the word “mystery.” Paul uses it in the letter seven different times (1:9, 3:3, 3:4, 3:6, 3:9, 5:32, 6:19); from these, build a working definition of “mystery.”
Video of the service
Series: Side By Side
Side By Side by Edward Welch
