Bannockburn Church: Recent Episodes
Bannockburn Church
We exist to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. You can listen to our weekly sermons from our Austin, Dripping Springs and Buda Kyle campuses here!
WEEK FOUR: GOSPEL TRUTHWeek 4: Galatians 2:11–21Even the esteemed Peter, a pillar of the early church, wasn’t immune to missteps. As Paul continues his letter to the Galatian churches, he recounts an incident where Peter distanced himself from Gentile Christians for reasons of ceremonial purity. Paul uses this incident to highlight that our salvation comes not through our own actions or external religiosity, but only through faith in the sacrifice of Christ.
WEEK THREE: GOSPEL GRACEGalatians 2:1-10As Paul continues his narrative, he recounts a pivotal council in Jerusalem. There, the church leaders, including himself and Barnabas, debated the role of Gentiles in the new faith. The central issue was circumcision: should Gentile converts be required to follow this Jewish tradition? Paul emphasizes that the council firmly rejected this notion. True faith, he reminds them, rests not on outward rituals, but on the transformative and amazing grace of God.
WEEK 1: GOSPEL MESSENGER
Galatians 1:10-24
Moving ahead with his letter, Paul emphasizes that the message he delivered wasn’t human invention. It didn’t originate with other disciples, nor did he simply fabricate it. No, it came directly from God. To underscore this point, he details his conversion experience. His apostleship isn’t a result of clever storytelling; it’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to the divine message he received.
Week 4: Isaiah 41:1-20
GOD’S POWER, MY FEARLESSNESS!
Isaiah 41 is a message of divine courage. God addresses a shaking Israel, assuring them of his constant presence and protection. In stark contrast to the weakness of idols, the Lord promises to be their unwavering strength and guide. If we can now face the future certain that God will not leave us, what room has fear left to wreak havoc in our hearts?
Week 3: Isaiah 40:27-31GOD’S GREATNESS, MY RENEWAL!As Chapter 40 draws to a close, Isaiah’s prophecy speaks to a despondent Israel. Weary from enduring hardship and pain, the people question God’s awareness, let alone His care. In a thunderous response, the Lord declares not only His watchful presence but also His deep compassion. He is the source of strength, refreshment, and renewal, even amidst their trials.
Isaiah 40:12-26Week 2: God’s Uniqueness, My Stillness!In this middle portion of Isaiah 40, the Lord through Isaiah employs rhetorical questions to underscore His unparalleled sovereignty. By highlighting his dominion over both the natural world and human affairs, the Lord emphasizes his incomparable nature. Truly, there is no one like our God!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
Matthew and Luke’s gospels both recount one of Jesus’s well-known parables: the parable of the talents. In this story, the master entrusts his workers with his resources, expecting them to be faithful stewards, and upon his return, he commends those who managed his possessions well with these beautiful words:‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’While we typically associate the idea of stewardship with money and finances, when we study the Bible we begin to see that stewardship extends far beyond. It moves us to see that God has not only given us to finances that should produce fruit but also our time, bodies, talents, minds, relationships, work, and even the world. All these and more are gifts from God to be stewarded responsibly.Given that we will be held accountable for how we wisely we use what God has given – all of which ultimately belong to the Lord – shouldn’t we strive to steward them better? Shouldn’t we aim to hear those same commending words spoken of us also?Join us as we search God’s Word together to understand stewardship, to live our lives well for the glory of God, to maximize our lives as they were meant to be lived, to take what God has entrusted to us, to Sow, to Reap, and to Give!
A look at a much loved psalm, Psalm 19.Written by David, the great king who was also apparently quite a great poet.The professor and author CS Lewis called it the “greatest poem in the book of psalms and one of the greatest lyrics in the world.”
RETURN: EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLESAfter 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLES
After 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.
Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.
As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLESAfter 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLESAfter 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLESAfter 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
Which chair do I sit in?Chair #1: Committed Follower of Jesus Christ as LORD- When the Word gives instruction, even if hard or painful to obey, they choose to follow and obey.Chair #2: Not a Follower of Jesus Christ as LORD- “Does the Lord actually know me?”- “Do I live like I believe He is worthy to be known?”They worship a god that requires:- No obedience- No submission- No self-sacrificeChair #3: Do not know/admit they are NOT a Follower of Jesus Christ as LORD- Don’t we believe in God?- Don’t we go to church every Sunday it doesn’t interfere in our family schedule?- Don’t we say prayers before the Thanksgiving meal?- Don’t we vote for moral values?- Aren’t we good people?
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33
EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLESAfter 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
EXAMINING THE KINGS OF II CHRONICLES
After 70 long years in a foreign land, the Israelites have finally returned home. Initially carried away by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians, they settled in Babylon only to face yet another conquest by the Persians. However, through the sovereign hand of God, the people have now made their way back.
Standing among the rubble of their once proud land, they find themselves reflecting on the past. They reminisce about the golden age of Israel and the great kings who once ruled them. They also remember the increasing wickedness that infiltrated the hearts of their fathers, leading to their dispersion in the first place.
As the people return to their land, the book of Second Chronicles serves as a reminder that alongside physical return, there must also be a return of the heart to the Lord. It’s a return to brokenness, reliance, genuine prosperity, worship, repentance, and truth. In short, the Lord calls His people to return to Him.
Celebrating Resurrection Sunday at Bannockburn Church with this message from Pastor Craig Turnbull. He Is Risen!
Let’s face it—prayer is often discussed in church, but not entirely understood. At its core, prayer is straightforward and sincere communication with God. It’s essentially the specific name we give to our dialogue with Him. But, if it’s merely communication, why does it pose such a challenge? Why is it so difficult to dedicate the time, maintain the focus, and truly feel like we’re conversing with God?
The truth is, we all wrestle with prayer. Prayer is the easiest thing to do, but it’s also one of the most difficult things to do. Join us for this series as we dive deeply into what God’s Word has to say about prayer. Looking specifically at the Lord Jesus and his ministry, we’re seeking to sit again at his feet, to listen to his teaching and watch his example, and grow in prayer as together we ask Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray!”
Let’s face it—prayer is often discussed in church, but not entirely understood. At its core, prayer is straightforward and sincere communication with God. It’s essentially the specific name we give to our dialogue with Him. But, if it’s merely communication, why does it pose such a challenge? Why is it so difficult to dedicate the time, maintain the focus, and truly feel like we’re conversing with God?The truth is, we all wrestle with prayer. Prayer is the easiest thing to do, but it’s also one of the most difficult things to do. Join us for this series as we dive deeply into what God’s Word has to say about prayer. Looking specifically at the Lord Jesus and his ministry, we’re seeking to sit again at his feet, to listen to his teaching and watch his example, and grow in prayer as together we ask Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray!”
Let’s face it—prayer is often discussed in church, but not entirely understood. At its core, prayer is straightforward and sincere communication with God. It’s essentially the specific name we give to our dialogue with Him. But, if it’s merely communication, why does it pose such a challenge? Why is it so difficult to dedicate the time, maintain the focus, and truly feel like we’re conversing with God?The truth is, we all wrestle with prayer. Prayer is the easiest thing to do, but it’s also one of the most difficult things to do. Join us for this series as we dive deeply into what God’s Word has to say about prayer. Looking specifically at the Lord Jesus and his ministry, we’re seeking to sit again at his feet, to listen to his teaching and watch his example, and grow in prayer as together we ask Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray!”
Let’s face it—prayer is often discussed in church, but not entirely understood. At its core, prayer is straightforward and sincere communication with God. It’s essentially the specific name we give to our dialogue with Him. But, if it’s merely communication, why does it pose such a challenge? Why is it so difficult to dedicate the time, maintain the focus, and truly feel like we’re conversing with God?The truth is, we all wrestle with prayer. Prayer is the easiest thing to do, but it’s also one of the most difficult things to do. Join us for this series as we dive deeply into what God’s Word has to say about prayer. Looking specifically at the Lord Jesus and his ministry, we’re seeking to sit again at his feet, to listen to his teaching and watch his example, and grow in prayer as together we ask Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray!”
Let’s face it—prayer is often discussed in church, but not entirely understood. At its core, prayer is straightforward and sincere communication with God. It’s essentially the specific name we give to our dialogue with Him. But, if it’s merely communication, why does it pose such a challenge? Why is it so difficult to dedicate the time, maintain the focus, and truly feel like we’re conversing with God?
The truth is, we all wrestle with prayer. Prayer is the easiest thing to do, but it’s also one of the most difficult things to do. Join us for this series as we dive deeply into what God’s Word has to say about prayer. Looking specifically at the Lord Jesus and his ministry, we’re seeking to sit again at his feet, to listen to his teaching and watch his example, and grow in prayer as together we ask Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray!”
The Lord cares a great deal about the hurting. He cares about the broken hearted and the crushed in spirit. He cares about the ones who have fallen far from him and are desperate apart from him. He cares about the lost. He cares about the hopeless. He cares.The book of Jonah is a wonderful story of a God who relentlessly pursues his people. From the lost city of Nineveh, to the lost sailors at sea, and even to the namesake of the book – the often confusing, mixed emotional bag of Jonah. The Lord cares.Join us for a series on Jonah, where we see together just how far God will go to rescue. Come hear again just how great our God’s love is for us.
The Lord cares a great deal about the hurting. He cares about the broken hearted and the crushed in spirit. He cares about the ones who have fallen far from him and are desperate apart from him. He cares about the lost. He cares about the hopeless. He cares.The book of Jonah is a wonderful story of a God who relentlessly pursues his people. From the lost city of Nineveh, to the lost sailors at sea, and even to the namesake of the book – the often confusing, mixed emotional bag of Jonah. The Lord cares.Join us for a series on Jonah, where we see together just how far God will go to rescue. Come hear again just how great our God’s love is for us.
The Lord cares a great deal about the hurting. He cares about the broken hearted and the crushed in spirit. He cares about the ones who have fallen far from him and are desperate apart from him. He cares about the lost. He cares about the hopeless. He cares.The book of Jonah is a wonderful story of a God who relentlessly pursues his people. From the lost city of Nineveh, to the lost sailors at sea, and even to the namesake of the book – the often confusing, mixed emotional bag of Jonah. The Lord cares.Join us for a series on Jonah, where we see together just how far God will go to rescue. Come hear again just how great our God’s love is for us.
The Lord cares a great deal about the hurting. He cares about the broken hearted and the crushed in spirit. He cares about the ones who have fallen far from him and are desperate apart from him. He cares about the lost. He cares about the hopeless. He cares.The book of Jonah is a wonderful story of a God who relentlessly pursues his people. From the lost city of Nineveh, to the lost sailors at sea, and even to the namesake of the book – the often confusing, mixed emotional bag of Jonah. The Lord cares.Join us for a series on Jonah, where we see together just how far God will go to rescue. Come hear again just how great our God’s love is for us.
The Lord cares a great deal about the hurting. He cares about the broken hearted and the crushed in spirit. He cares about the ones who have fallen far from him and are desperate apart from him. He cares about the lost. He cares about the hopeless. He cares.The book of Jonah is a wonderful story of a God who relentlessly pursues his people. From the lost city of Nineveh, to the lost sailors at sea, and even to the namesake of the book – the often confusing, mixed emotional bag of Jonah. The Lord cares.Join us for a series on Jonah, where we see together just how far God will go to rescue. Come hear again just how great our God’s love is for us.
The Lord cares a great deal about the hurting. He cares about the broken hearted and the crushed in spirit. He cares about the ones who have fallen far from him and are desperate apart from him. He cares about the lost. He cares about the hopeless. He cares.The book of Jonah is a wonderful story of a God who relentlessly pursues his people. From the lost city of Nineveh, to the lost sailors at sea, and even to the namesake of the book – the often confusing, mixed emotional bag of Jonah. The Lord cares.Join us for a series on Jonah, where we see together just how far God will go to rescue. Come hear again just how great our God’s love is for us.
My hope and prayer of getting to lead this sermon alongside you is that you leave here feeling challenged, motivated, and with a new perspective on where God is calling you this new year.
Week 4: Love has Arrived! (Christmas Eve)
This Christmas we explore the astonishing reality that the eternal Son of God, “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature” (Hebrews 1:3), made the choice to embrace human nature, becomes man, and live among us. But even more astonishing, Jesus didn’t just come to be born; he came to live, and give his life as a ransom for many. He came to save the world from sin and death, and his arrival swings the door wide open to a true and lasting hope—one that the world can’t snatch away. His arrival offers us a peace that stands firm and an eternal, indestructible joy.
And because of Jesus’s arrival, we can be brought into his everlasting love.Hope, peace, joy, and love. These are the realities – the concrete truths – we celebrate during the Christmas season because each of these deep longings of our hearts find their fulfillment in Jesus. Join us for a Christmas series that explores these truths, join us for a series that celebrates the glory of Jesus; a series that really gets your heart ready for Advent. Come and celebrate the truth that, He Has Arrived!
Week 3: Joy has Arrived!This Christmas we explore the astonishing reality that the eternal Son of God, “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature” (Hebrews 1:3), made the choice to embrace human nature, becomes man, and live among us. But even more astonishing, Jesus didn’t just come to be born; he came to live, and give his life as a ransom for many. He came to save the world from sin and death, and his arrival swings the door wide open to a true and lasting hope—one that the world can’t snatch away. His arrival offers us a peace that stands firm and an eternal, indestructible joy. And because of Jesus’s arrival, we can be brought into his everlasting love.Hope, peace, joy, and love. These are the realities – the concrete truths – we celebrate during the Christmas season because each of these deep longings of our hearts find their fulfillment in Jesus. Join us for a Christmas series that explores these truths, join us for a series that celebrates the glory of Jesus; a series that really gets your heart ready for Advent. Come and celebrate the truth that, He Has Arrived!
Week 2: Peace has Arrived!This Christmas we explore the astonishing reality that the eternal Son of God, “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature” (Hebrews 1:3), made the choice to embrace human nature, becomes man, and live among us. But even more astonishing, Jesus didn’t just come to be born; he came to live, and give his life as a ransom for many. He came to save the world from sin and death, and his arrival swings the door wide open to a true and lasting hope—one that the world can’t snatch away. His arrival offers us a peace that stands firm and an eternal, indestructible joy. And because of Jesus’s arrival, we can be brought into his everlasting love.
Hope, peace, joy, and love. These are the realities – the concrete truths – we celebrate during the Christmas season because each of these deep longings of our hearts find their fulfillment in Jesus. Join us for a Christmas series that explores these truths, join us for a series that celebrates the glory of Jesus; a series that really gets your heart ready for Advent. Come and celebrate the truth that, He Has Arrived!
This Christmas we explore the astonishing reality that the eternal Son of God, “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature” (Hebrews 1:3), made the choice to embrace human nature, becomes man, and live among us. But even more astonishing, Jesus didn’t just come to be born; he came to live, and give his life as a ransom for many. He came to save the world from sin and death, and his arrival swings the door wide open to a true and lasting hope—one that the world can’t snatch away. His arrival offers us a peace that stands firm and an eternal, indestructible joy. And because of Jesus’s arrival, we can be brought into his everlasting love.Hope, peace, joy, and love. These are the realities – the concrete truths – we celebrate during the Christmas season because each of these deep longings of our hearts find their fulfillment in Jesus. Join us for a Christmas series that explores these truths, join us for a series that celebrates the glory of Jesus; a series that really gets your heart ready for Advent. Come and celebrate the truth that, He Has Arrived!
What initially brought some people to church.6-8% Walked in by own imitative2-3% Like a program offered8-10% Like the pastor3-4% Had a need met by the church3-4% Attracted by life groups70-80% Invited by a friend or relative82% of people would come to church if a friend invited them. Only 2% of Christians will actually invite them.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
A change in perspective can make all the difference. Sometimes, when we have a broader view of the landscape around us, it can boost our confidence when we’re dealing with challenges. Paul’s words in the book of Colossians offer precisely that kind of assurance.In the midst of this chaotic and confusing world we inhabit, it’s all too easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. We tend to lose sight of what truly matters because, more often than not, we’re stuck living beneath the clouds. Join us for a series that takes us to the mountaintops, where we explore the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Join us for a perspective that literally changes everything. Now more than ever, we need the message of Colossians.
Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow, but that’s not always easy. Nor is keeping our temper in check, especially when we see rampant injustice in the world around us. This four-week series explores what the Bible teaches regarding our thoughts and emotions, and why it’s important to take care of our mental and emotional health in addition to our physical and spiritual well-being.
Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow, but that’s not always easy. Nor is keeping our temper in check, especially when we see rampant injustice in the world around us. This four-week series explores what the Bible teaches regarding our thoughts and emotions, and why it’s important to take care of our mental and emotional health in addition to our physical and spiritual well-being
Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow, but that’s not always easy. Nor is keeping our temper in check, especially when we see rampant injustice in the world around us. This four-week series explores what the Bible teaches regarding our thoughts and emotions, and why it’s important to take care of our mental and emotional health in addition to our physical and spiritual well-being.
Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow, but that’s not always easy. Nor is keeping our temper in check, especially when we see rampant injustice in the world around us. This four-week series explores what the Bible teaches regarding our thoughts and emotions, and why it’s important to take care of our mental and emotional health in addition to our physical and spiritual well-being.
This series explains the nature and purpose of the church. It details the origin of the church; the ordinances of the church; the roles, responsibilities, and gifts of the members of the church; and the overall mission of the church.
This series explains the nature and purpose of the church. It details the origin of the church; the ordinances of the church; the roles, responsibilities, and gifts of the members of the church; and the overall mission of the church.
This series explains the nature and purpose of the church. It details the origin of the church; the ordinances of the church; the roles, responsibilities, and gifts of the members of the church; and the overall mission of the church.
This series explains the nature and purpose of the church. It details the origin of the church; the ordinances of the church; the roles, responsibilities, and gifts of the members of the church; and the overall mission of the church.
This series explains the nature and purpose of the church. It details the origin of the church; the ordinances of the church; the roles, responsibilities, and gifts of the members of the church; and the overall mission of the church.
This sermon series on the book of Deuteronomy unwraps the history and theology of the book, examining the relevance the book of Deuteronomy has in our lives today.
All of us are called to remain faithful to God. This is easier said than done—life presents various challenges and distractions that seek to pull us away from our purpose to love God and love others.
Through understanding the context and audience, we can understand the importance of trusting God, remembering his relationship to us, and loving him with our full being.
Live from our Dripping Springs Campus! This sermon series on the book of Deuteronomy unwraps the history and theology of the book, examining the relevance the book of Deuteronomy has in our lives today.
All of us are called to remain faithful to God. This is easier said than done—life presents various challenges and distractions that seek to pull us away from our purpose to love God and love others.
Through understanding the context and audience, we can understand the importance of trusting God, remembering his relationship to us, and loving him with our full being.
This sermon series on the book of Deuteronomy unwraps the history and theology of the book, examining the relevance the book of Deuteronomy has in our lives today.
All of us are called to remain faithful to God. This is easier said than done—life presents various challenges and distractions that seek to pull us away from our purpose to love God and love others.
Through understanding the context and audience, we can understand the importance of trusting God, remembering his relationship to us, and loving him with our full being.
This sermon series on the book of Deuteronomy unwraps the history and theology of the book, examining the relevance the book of Deuteronomy has in our lives today. All of us are called to remain faithful to God. This is easier said than done—life presents various challenges and distractions that seek to pull us away from our purpose to love God and love others. Through understanding the context and audience, we can understand the importance of trusting God, remembering his relationship to us, and loving him with our full being.
This sermon series on the book of Deuteronomy unwraps the history and theology of the book, examining the relevance the book of Deuteronomy has in our lives today.All of us are called to remain faithful to God. This is easier said than done—life presents various challenges and distractions that seek to pull us away from our purpose to love God and love others.Through understanding the context and audience, we can understand the importance of trusting God, remembering his relationship to us, and loving him with our full being.
Pastor Kacy Benson preaches a message on 2 Timothy."Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22. (NIV)1. Flee the evil desires of youth. 2. You can’t really say “yes” to God until you can say “no” to some other things.3. Make our relationship with God a priority. "For my determined purpose is that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly." Phillipians 3:10a (ABCE)4. When it comes to making Jesus known we are God’s plan A, there is no plan B."Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven." Matthew 10:32-33 (NIV)5. Pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace6. Its not just avoiding bad things. It must also be the pursuit of good things.7. Make time with God every day.
This sermon series encourages congregants to explore God’s Word and equips them with basic hermeneutical principles that will help them engage with Scripture and correctly interpret its texts. In this series, we will cover topics such as Jesus as the Word of God, the relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament, Scripture as God-breathed, and the Bible as a book that is living and active.
This sermon series encourages congregants to explore God’s Word and equips them with basic hermeneutical principles that will help them engage with Scripture and correctly interpret its texts. In this series, we will cover topics such as Jesus as the Word of God, the relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament, Scripture as God-breathed, and the Bible as a book that is living and active.
This sermon series encourages congregants to explore God’s Word and equips them with basic hermeneutical principles that will help them engage with Scripture and correctly interpret its texts. In this series, we will cover topics such as Jesus as the Word of God, the relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament, Scripture as God-breathed, and the Bible as a book that is living and active.
This sermon series encourages congregants to explore God’s Word and equips them with basic hermeneutical principles that will help them engage with Scripture and correctly interpret its texts. In this series, we will cover topics such as Jesus as the Word of God, the relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament, Scripture as God-breathed, and the Bible as a book that is living and active.
Pastor Chuck Davis delivers our Sunday Message on finding comfort in the promises of Jesus Christ.
Palm Sunday—the day set aside to remember Jesus’ Triumphal Entry and the beginning of Holy Week. By telling the story of Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem, this message challenges listeners to wonder if their self-righteousness and pride is keeping them from recognizing and participating in God’s work.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
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What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
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How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
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What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
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What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
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What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
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In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
-
What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
-
How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
-
What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
-
What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
-
What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
-
In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
-
What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
-
How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
-
What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
-
What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
-
What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
-
In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
-
What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
-
How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
-
What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
-
What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
-
What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
-
In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
-
What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
-
How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
-
What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
-
What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
-
What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
-
In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
-
What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
-
How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
-
What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
-
What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
-
What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
-
In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This episode is a draft and can’t yet be heard by anyone but you.
This sermon series looks at the work of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, since Pentecost.
This series addresses six common questions:
-
What did Jesus promise us about the Holy Spirit?
-
How did the early church demonstrate the truth of those promises?
-
What does the Comforter do for us as believers?
-
What is our relationship to the Holy Spirit?
-
What did the day of Pentecost mean in terms of our salvation, discipleship, and evangelism?
-
In what ways are we using the Spirit that God has poured out?
This is a great sermon series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit for new believers and long-time members alike. Be prepared to be challenged to use your faith and this great gift, the Comforter.
This series approaches what it means to live a life of prayer. Starting with the difference between the joy of a real relationship through the gospel versus empty religious duty, this series will encourage you to develop a meaningful prayer life by overcoming distractions, prioritizing God’s presence, and using God’s Word as fuel for effective prayer.
This series approaches what it means to live a life of prayer. Starting with the difference between the joy of a real relationship through the gospel versus empty religious duty, this series will encourage you to develop a meaningful prayer life by overcoming distractions, prioritizing God’s presence, and using God’s Word as fuel for effective prayer.
This series approaches what it means to live a life of prayer. Starting with the difference between the joy of a real relationship through the gospel versus empty religious duty, this series will encourage you to develop a meaningful prayer life by overcoming distractions, prioritizing God’s presence, and using God’s Word as fuel for effective prayer.
Special Guest Aharon Levarko delivers a special message prior to our Afternoon Seder Meal.
This is Week 2 of a three-week sermon series emphasizing the characters in the famous parable of the prodigal son; prodigal, older brother, and father. This sermon series focuses on finding home with God after feeling too far gone to be saved. Prodigal also challenges those who think association with God is equal to truly knowing Him as demonstrated through the older brother. Lastly, we get a glimpse of God’s unconditional love for all his children as demonstrated by the father in the story. This is a compassionate and challenging study on relationship with the Godhead and demonstrating God’s love in our daily lives.
This three-week sermon series will emphasize the characters in the famous parable of the prodigal son; prodigal, older brother, and father.
This sermon series focuses on finding home with God after feeling too far gone to be saved.
Prodigal also challenges those who think association with God is equal to truly knowing Him as demonstrated through the older brother.
Lastly, we get a glimpse of God’s unconditional love for all his children as demonstrated by the father in the story.
This is a compassionate and challenging study on relationship with the Godhead and demonstrating God’s love in our daily lives.
This three-week sermon series will emphasize the characters in the famous parable of the prodigal son; prodigal, older brother, and father. This sermon series focuses on finding home with God after feeling too far gone to be saved. Prodigal also challenges those who think association with God is equal to truly knowing Him as demonstrated through the older brother. Lastly, we get a glimpse of God’s unconditional love for all his children as demonstrated by the father in the story. This is a compassionate and challenging study on relationship with the Godhead and demonstrating God’s love in our daily lives.
This one-week sermon unpacks Jesus's parable of the four soils to help us understand what it means to have a fruitful heart.
Join us for the final week of this series as we look at at the Christmas story from the songs sung in the Gospels before, during, and after Jesus’s birth. These songs reveal the songwriters’ heart for the Messiah, the hope of the world; they will warm your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your worship.
Join us for week two of this series as we look at at the Christmas story from the songs sung in the Gospels before, during, and after Jesus’s birth. These songs reveal the songwriters’ heart for the Messiah, the hope of the world; they will warm your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your worship.
Join us for week two of this series as we look at at the Christmas story from the songs sung in the Gospels before, during, and after Jesus’s birth. These songs reveal the songwriters’ heart for the Messiah, the hope of the world; they will warm your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your worship.
Join us for week two of this series as we look at at the Christmas story from the songs sung in the Gospels before, during, and after Jesus’s birth. These songs reveal the songwriters’ heart for the Messiah, the hope of the world; they will warm your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your worship.
Join us for week two of this series as we look at at the Christmas story from the songs sung in the Gospels before, during, and after Jesus’s birth. These songs reveal the songwriters’ heart for the Messiah, the hope of the world; they will warm your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your worship.
Join us for week one of this series as we look at at the Christmas story from the songs sung in the Gospels before, during, and after Jesus’s birth. These songs reveal the songwriters’ heart for the Messiah, the hope of the world; they will warm your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your worship.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (1 Peter 1:3 ESV)
Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV)
“Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Thomas Chisolm: “Although I must not fail to record here the unfailing of a covenant-keeping God and that he has given me many wonderful displays of his providing care, for which I am filled with astonishing gratefulness.”
Steps to Focused Praise: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed” Lamentations 3:22a
“His mercies never come to an end” Lamentations 3:22b
“They are new every morning” Lamentations 3:23a
“Great is your faithfulness” Lamentations 3:23b
“He who has God and many other things has no more than he who has God alone.” C S. Lewis
As believers, we are called to love God, as well as honor, serve, and reach people with the gospel. When we begin to love each other as Christ loved us, this love will compel us to turn our entire world into a mission field.
This stand-alone mission message touches on three different levels of evangelism:
- Our church
- Our community
- Our world.
By digging into God’s Word, this sermon will help your congregation understand the importance of building relationships in the local church, serving their community, and helping the message of Jesus spread across the globe.
Colossians 3:22–4:1 (ESV)
Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. 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 Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality. 4:1 Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.
- The Value Of Our Work
- The Principles Of Good Work
- The Proper Motivation For Work
The Principles Of Good Work
- Loyalty
- Honesty
- Heartily
- Fairly
The Proper Motivation For Work
- Work For The Right Boss
- Work For The Right Reward.
- Work With The Right Perspective.
In this series, we discover that our work can be worshipful, that God is deeply interested in the work we do, that we are designed to work at a God-ordained pace, and that we are commanded to celebrate the Sabbath weekly, feasting on the best God has for us.
In this series, we discover that our work can be worshipful, that God is deeply interested in the work we do, that we are designed to work at a God-ordained pace, and that we are commanded to celebrate the Sabbath weekly, feasting on the best God has for us.
Dr. Craig Turnbull preaches a wonderful sermon as our guest speaker on October 23rd, 2022.
Ephesians 6:1–4 (ESV) Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Deuteronomy 6:4–9 (ESV) “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Rules without relationship will likely lead to rebellion.
The words you use with your kids when they are young will become their self-talk to guide them the rest of their lives.
Nourishing into flourishing
Seek to be the person you want your children to become.
Be authentic and real.
You do not have to be perfect, but you do have to be real.
- Commander - birth to 5 years old. At home – Traveling – Wake up – Bedtime
- Coach – 5 to 12 years old.
- Counselor – 12 to 18 years old.
- Companion – 18+
Deuteronomy 6:4–9 (ESV) “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Ephesians 6:1-4 NLT
Lead your children eternally.
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
- Commander 0-5
- Coach 6-12
- Councilor 12-18
- Companion 18+
Guide them toward a personal relationship with God.
Deuteronomy 6:4–9 (NLT)
Lead them away from the Dangers of this world.
Deuteronomy 4:25 (NLT)
Let them see the priority of Christ in your life.
2 Kings 17:41 (NIV)
Show them what forgiveness looks like.
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NLT)
Ephesians 5:22–33 (ESV)
22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. 25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
- You get out of marriage what you put into it.
- Marriage is an institution that God created.
Genesis 2:18 (ESV) Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”
Helper - One major error from our culture regarding marriage is that the highest goal of marriage is personal fulfillment.
“Fit for him” - Marriage has a leadership structure.
Genesis 2:24 (ESV) Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Marriage is union
Genesis 2:25 (ESV) And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed.
Marriage is total intimacy
The greatest enemy of your marriage is passivity.
Marriages will now be plagued with conflict.
Opposites will ATTRACT and then ATTACK!
There is no perfect spouse.
There is no perfectly compatible marriage on the planet.
The real problem of marriage is two individuals, selfish by nature, are seeking to exist in an institution that was created originally requiring selflessness.
The greatest needs of husbands:
- Acceptance
- Respect
- Trust
- Intimacy
The greatest needs of wives:
- Being cherished.
- Covenant security.
- Attention.
- Intimacy
Into – Me – See
One of the biggest pain points for people today is family. “How do I save my marriage? How do I become a good parent?” Your people have questions; questions the Bible can answer. This series focuses on relationships in the home. Using the instructions found in Ephesians 5 and 6, this message set discusses love in the contexts of marriage, family, and parenting. In this series, real life issues like self-sacrifice, the transformation power of the Gospel, witnessing to the world as a family, and honoring God by honoring each other are explored each week.
Ephesians 5:1–10 (ESV)
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
- Acceptance & Belonging
- Identity Discovery & Formation
- The Power to Love Sacrificially
- 5 Love Languages Graphic
- The Power to Live In Purity
- The Power to Walk In Truth
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:13–16 (ESV)
Assimilate
Isolate
“We are called to live lives that demand gospel explanations and, when we have the opportunities, to give people Jesus as the answer for our hope.” – Jeff Vanderstelt
Circles Of Friendships
Our closest friendships should provide us a strong grounding in the most important aspects of our life.
Acceptance & Belonging
Companionship
Identity Formation
When we are grounded well and secure in our sense of belonging and identity with healthy close friendships, we have strength and security to be a friend to anyone in our world, including people who are very different than us.
B.L.E.S.S. Book
- Begin with prayer
- Listen
- Eat
- Serve
- Story
Influence
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
Walks
Proverbs 13:20 (ESV) Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.
Wise
Discover friends who are facing the same direction and have the same foundation of life.
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” - CS Lewis – The Four Loves
Becomes
Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Show me your friends and I will show you your future. – Andy Stanley
Discover
Develop
Being a good friend:
1. Be present.
Proverbs 17:17 (NIV) A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. #17 Being a good friend: 1-
2. Be reliable.
18 Proverbs 18:24 (NIV) One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
3. Be helpful.
Proverbs 27:5–6 (NIV) Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
Proverbs 28:23 (NIV) Whoever rebukes a person will in the end gain favor rather than one who has a flattering tongue.
Proverbs 27:9 (NIV) Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.
John 15:13–15 (NIV) Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.
“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16. (MSG)
He is the Light.
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 the light that leads to life.” John 8:12 (NLT)
Light defeats death.
"The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone." John 1:4 (NLT) Light conquers darkness. "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it." John 1:5 (NLT)
Light provides direction.
"Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:105 (NLT)
The Light of Jesus brings hope to the hopeless.
"I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark." John 12:46 (NLT)
The Light shows us how we are to shine light into the darkness.
"For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!" Ephesians 5:8 (NLT)
Philippians 3:12–4:1 (ESV)
12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. 16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained. 17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. 4:1Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.
Principles to getting back at it:
- God has a purpose for your life.
- Fulfilling God’s purpose for your life should be your main goal in life.
- Fulfilling God’s purpose for your life comes with great reward.
- Fulfilling God’s purpose for your life requires pressing.
- Fulfilling God’s purpose for your life requires focus
John 21:15-19 (ESV)
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
The Invitation To Return:
- Own the real problem.
- Feel the right sorrow.
- Receive the renewed position.
2 Corinthians 7:10 (NIV)
10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
You Version Notes
John 21:15-19 (ESV)
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
“Every man dies, not every man really lives.” – William Wallace“We need to quit living our lives for the main goal of arriving safely at death.” - Mark Batterson
- Risk More
- Reflect More
- Do more things that live on after you die.
On Sunday, May 27, 1973 a group of 137 people responded to God’s challenge to form a new church with a mission of reaching and ministering to people in far South Austin. The group first met at Crockett High School, then at Sunset Valley Elementary School.
Matthew 28:18–20 (ESV)
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 6:19–21 (ESV)
19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
We exist to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
Three things that cannot make a church, but can break a church: Location – Facilities – Finances
- Invest in planting three churches in the next three years in North American cities where the gospel is needed most.
- Invest in positioning Bannockburn as a haven of hope and healing for the hurting.
101 – Every Member
201 – Leadership
301 – Lay Counselors
401 – Professional Counselors 3. Invest in a multi-site expansion in Buda/Kyle. 4. Invest in our campus facilities for future impact.
- 115,715 people live within a 3 mile radius of our South Austin Campus.
- Since 2000, our South Austin neighborhood (3 mile radius of our SA campus) has grown at a rate of 30% annually.
- It is projected that our South Austin neighborhood (3 mile radius from our SA campus) will grow 10,000 people in the next five years.
“I think we will bust through the 3 million mark by 2030.” – Ryan Robinson – City of Austin’s Demographer
What is the primary reason people do not invite guests to their worship services?
• 31% - I don’t know.
• 20% - They refuse my invitation.
• 17% - I don’t know anyone to invite.
• 11% - I’m just comfortable asking people to church.
• 4% - I don’t think it is up to me to bring people to church.
• 2% - I’m too busy serving at church on Sunday morning.
• 15% - Other reasons.
“God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things”
Luke 5:17:26 (NIV)
God uses people who make themselves available
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15) (NIV)
God uses people who dare to be different.
“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.
(Matt 5:14-16). (MSG)
God uses people who follow Him completely and don’t give up.
“Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. (Luke 9:23) (NIV)
• Deny yourself
• Take up the Cross Daily
• Follow Me
God uses people who are willing to take a risk.
The same good news that came to you is going out all over the world it is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful Grace. Colossians 1:6. (NLT)
Who’s your one?
Abraham was now very old, and the LORD had blessed him in every way. (Shouldn’t the story be over? Why are we still talking about Abe?) 2 He said to the senior servant in his household, the one in charge of all that he had, “Put your hand under my thigh. (Senior servant? Most experienced and most trusted…and the thigh?...Adam Clarke.) 3 I want you to swear by the LORD, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I am living, 4 but will go to my country and my own relatives and get a wife for my son Isaac.”
Your Part Matters - Open Hearts & Hands
THEME - The Gospel accounts that tell us the story of Jesus also include imperfect people (like us) who are used by God because they have hearts for Him and hands that are willing to serve Him.
Bad reality #1 = We think that the universe should center on us
Bad reality #2 = We think we are insignificant and meaningless
Different reality = We are not the center of the universe but we are significant
Luke 23:50-53 There was a good and righteous man named Joseph, a member of the Sanhedrin, who had not agreed with their plan and action. He was from Arimathea, a Judean town, and was looking forward to the kingdom of God. He approached Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Taking it down, he wrapped it in fine linen and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had ever been placed.
Matthew 27:57 - 57 When it was evening, a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph came, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus.
What we know about Joseph of Arimathea
- He was an important person in Jerusalem
- He was wealthy
- He followed Jesus
Joseph’s heart was changed by Jesus
Ezekiel 36:26 - I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.
As our heart is miraculously softened by Jesus we ask… How do I live for God?
Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.
John 19:38 - After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus—but secretly because of his fear of the Jews—asked Pilate that he might remove Jesus’ body.
Matthew 10:32-33 - Therefore, everyone who will acknowledge Me before men, I will also acknowledge him before My Father in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father in heaven.
What did a step of faith look like for Joseph?
- Using what God had given him
- Getting his hands dirty
Luke 23:53 - Taking it [the body] down, he wrapped it in fine linen and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had ever been placed.
Matthew 27:59-60 - So Joseph took the body, wrapped it in clean, fine linen, and placed it in his new tomb, which he had cut into the rock. He left after rolling a great stone against the entrance of the tomb.
Do you have a heart open to God? (That has been changed by God?)
Are your hands willing to serve Him? If so, what does that look like?
Impact of One - Pastor Chuck Davis concludes our series: "Your Part Matters."
Mark 15:43-46
Joseph was Respected
Matthew 27:57-60
Joseph was Wealthy
Luke 23:50
Joseph was Good and Righteous
Luke 23:51
Joseph did not consent to evil
John 19:38
Joseph was a secret disciple
True Faith:
- Takes Action
- Counts Cost
- Gets Involved
Impact:
- Focus on Others
- Focus on Kingdom
- Focus on Eternal
2 Corinthians 4: 13-18
“I am only one
I can not do everything
But I still can do something
And because I can not do everything
I will not refuse to do something I can do.”
- Edward Everett Hale
1 Corinthians 12:1–11 (NIV)
Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
Living our lives supernaturally on purpose:
1) Discover the doctrine of spiritual gifts.
- Speaking gifts.
- Serving gifts.
- Shepherding gifts.
2) Discover your spiritual gift.
- Spiritual Gift
- Heart
- Abilities
- Personality
- Experiences
Take the free S.H.A.P.E. Assessment Test. Start serving others. Listen for feedback from the body.
3) Exercise your gift for the benefit of others in the church.
Living for the greatness of the Kingdom involves:
- Belonging
- Receiving
- Giving
- Growing
1 Corinthians 12:12–20 (NIV)
Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
Ephesians 4:11–16 (NIV)
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 the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
To be great in the Kingdom:
- Be great in sight.
- Be great in secret.
- Be great in service.
JOY =
- Jesus
- Others
- You
Matthew 6:1–15 (NIV) “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
Mark 9:33-35 (ESV) And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”
Cultural observations:
- Our culture seems to increasingly have an aversion to blood.
- Our culture is increasingly ignorant of its sin condition.
Romans 3:23 (HCSB) - For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Romans 3:24 (HCSB) - They are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:25 (HCSB) - God presented Him as a propitiation through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed.
2 truths from Romans 3:23-25:
- We are all sinners
- We can be forgiven of our sins and made right with God through faith in Jesus blood
2 Corinthians 5:21 (HCSB) - “He made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
Propitiation is the substitution of Jesus on our behalf God’s anger towards sin is proof of His love for us “The wrath of God is as personal, and as potent, as his love; and, just as the blood-shedding of the Lord Jesus was the direct manifesting of his Father's love toward us, so it was the direct averting of his Father's wrath against us.” - J I Packer
“Behold then the kindness and severity of God” - Romans 11:22 (NASB)
How should we respond?
- Receive God’s grace.
- Don’t be embarrassed about the blood of Jesus.
- Worship God because of His incredible rescue plan.
Esther 6:14–7:10 (ESV)
While they were yet talking with him, the king’s eunuchs arrived and hurried to bring Haman to the feast that Esther had prepared. So the king and Haman went in to feast with Queen Esther. And on the second day, as they were drinking wine after the feast, the king again said to Esther, “What is your wish, Queen Esther? It shall be granted you. And what is your request? Even to the half of my kingdom, it shall be fulfilled.” Then Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be granted me for my wish, and my people for my request. For we have been sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be killed, and to be annihilated. If we had been sold merely as slaves, men and women, I would have been silent, for our affliction is not to be compared with the loss to the king.” Then King Ahasuerus said to Queen Esther, “Who is he, and where is he, who has dared to do this?” And Esther said, “A foe and enemy! This wicked Haman!” Then Haman was terrified before the king and the queen. And the king arose in his wrath from the wine-drinking and went into the palace garden, but Haman stayed to beg for his life from Queen Esther, for he saw that harm was determined against him by the king. And the king returned from the palace garden to the place where they were drinking wine, as Haman was falling on the couch where Esther was. And the king said, “Will he even assault the queen in my presence, in my own house?” As the word left the mouth of the king, they covered Haman’s face. Then Harbona, one of the eunuchs in attendance on the king, said, “Moreover, the gallows that Haman has prepared for Mordecai, whose word saved the king, is standing at Haman’s house, fifty cubits high.” And the king said, “Hang him on that.” So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the wrath of the king abated.
The Moral Of The Story:
-
Pride will destroy our lives.
-
We reap what we sow.
-
God provides us rest from our enemies.
Esther 5: On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter. Then the king asked, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you.” “If it pleases the king,” replied Esther, “let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him.” “Bring Haman at once,” the king said, “so that we may do what Esther asks.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet Esther had prepared. As they were drinking wine, the king again asked Esther, “Now what is your petition? It will be given you. And what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted.” Esther replied, “My petition and my request is this: If the king regards me with favor and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king’s question.” Haman went out that day happy and in high spirits. But when he saw Mordecai at the king’s gate and observed that he neither rose nor showed fear in his presence, he was filled with rage against Mordecai. Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home. Calling together his friends and Zeresh, his wife, Haman boasted to them about his vast wealth, his many sons, and all the ways the king had honored him and how he had elevated him above the other nobles and officials. “And that’s not all,” Haman added. “I’m the only person Queen Esther invited to accompany the king to the banquet she gave. And she has invited me along with the king tomorrow. But all this gives me no satisfaction as long as I see that Jew Mordecai sitting at the king’s gate.” His wife Zeresh and all his friends said to him, “Have a pole set up, reaching to a height of fifty cubits,[a] and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai impaled on it. Then go with the king to the banquet and enjoy yourself.” This suggestion delighted Haman, and he had the pole set up.
Easter's mission objectives:
- Take a stand and speak to the king
- Take a stand and let him know she is Jewish
- Take a stand to convince the king to reverse an irreversible law
- Take a stand and oppose Haman
1) What are you willing to take a stand for?
2) Do you have the courage to take a stand?
"Courage is a quality of mind or spirit that enables us to meet danger, opposition, or the challenges of life with fearlessness, calmness, and firmness."
3) Real courage is taking Action.
"Now it happened on the third day that Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the king’s palace, across from the king’s house, while the king sat on his royal throne in the royal house, facing the entrance of the house." Esther 5:1. NIV
4) Real courage is rewarded. (No risk No Reward)
5) To stand strong and take action we have to build our faith on a firm Foundation
“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Matthew 7:24-27 NIV
Questions that propel us into God’s purpose for our lives:
- Where am I?
- What do I have?
- What can I do?
- What will it cost me?
- Am I willing?
Esther 4:1–17 (HCSB)
When Mordecai learned all that had occurred, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, went into the middle of the city, and cried loudly and bitterly. He only went as far as the King’s Gate, since the law prohibited anyone wearing sackcloth from entering the King’s Gate. There was great mourning among the Jewish people in every province where the king’s command and edict came. They fasted, wept, and lamented, and many lay on sackcloth and ashes. Esther’s female servants and her eunuchs came and reported the news to her, and the queen was overcome with fear. She sent clothes for Mordecai to wear so he could take off his sackcloth, but he did not accept them. Esther summoned Hathach, one of the king’s eunuchs assigned to her, and dispatched him to Mordecai to learn what he was doing and why. So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the city square in front of the King’s Gate. Mordecai told him everything that had happened as well as the exact amount of money Haman had promised to pay the royal treasury for the slaughter of the Jews. Mordecai also gave him a copy of the written decree issued in Susa ordering their destruction, so that Hathach might show it to Esther, explain it to her, and command her to approach the king, implore his favor, and plead with him personally for her people. Hathach came and repeated Mordecai’s response to Esther. Esther spoke to Hathach and commanded him to tell Mordecai, “All the royal officials and the people of the royal provinces know that one law applies to every man or woman who approaches the king in the inner courtyard and who has not been summoned—the death penalty. Only if the king extends the gold scepter will that person live. I have not been summoned to appear before the king for the last 30 days.” Esther’s response was reported to Mordecai. Mordecai told the messenger to reply to Esther, “Don’t think that you will escape the fate of all the Jews because you are in the king’s palace. If you keep silent at this time, liberation and deliverance will come to the Jewish people from another place, but you and your father’s house will be destroyed. Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.” Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa and fast for me. Don’t eat or drink for three days, day or night. I and my female servants will also fast in the same way. After that, I will go to the king even if it is against the law. If I perish, I perish.” So Mordecai went and did everything Esther had ordered him.
Acts 17:26 (ESV)
And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place.
The S.H.A.P.E. Test:
S – Spiritual gifts
H – Heart
A – Abilities
P – Personality
E - Experiences
Esther 2:19 (HCSB)
When the young women were assembled together for a second time, Mordecai was sitting at the King’s Gate. Esther still had not revealed her birthplace or her ethnic background, as Mordecai had directed. She obeyed Mordecai’s orders, as she always had while he raised her. During those days while Mordecai was sitting at the King’s Gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two eunuchs who guarded the king’s entrance, became infuriated and planned to assassinate King Ahasuerus. When Mordecai learned of the plot, he reported it to Queen Esther, and she told the king on Mordecai’s behalf. When the report was investigated and verified, both men were hanged on the gallows. This event was recorded in the Historical Record in the king’s presence. After all this took place, King Ahasuerus honored Haman, son of Hammedatha the Agagite. He promoted him in rank and gave him a higher position than all the other officials. The entire royal staff at the King’s Gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman, because the king had commanded this to be done for him. But Mordecai would not bow down or pay homage. The members of the royal staff at the King’s Gate asked Mordecai, “Why are you disobeying the king’s command?” When they had warned him day after day and he still would not listen to them, they told Haman to see if Mordecai’s actions would be tolerated, since he had told them he was a Jew. When Haman saw that Mordecai was not bowing down or paying him homage, he was filled with rage. And when he learned of Mordecai’s ethnic identity, Haman decided not to do away with Mordecai alone. He planned to destroy all of Mordecai’s people, the Jews, throughout Ahasuerus’s kingdom.
Principles of living counter-culturally:
- Belong To A Church Family.
- Grow In Wisdom In Managing The Tensions.
- Be Prepared To Resist When You Must.
- Trust That God Is Working Through Your Life Even When You Can’t See Exactly How.
Three Temptations To Avoid In The Tensions:
- Assimilation.
- Isolation.
- Condemnation.
Philippians 2:14–15 (ESV)
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.
You Are Not Forgotten!
Esther 2:1-2 (HCSB)
Some time later, when King Ahasuerus’s rage had cooled down, he remembered Vashti, what she had done, and what was decided against her. The king’s personal attendants suggested, “Let a search be made for beautiful young women for the king.
Esther 2:5-7 (HCSB)
In the fortress of Susa, there was a Jewish man named Mordecai son of Jair, son of Shimei, son of Kish, a Benjaminite. He had been taken into exile from Jerusalem with the other captives when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon took King Jeconiah of Judah into exile. Mordecai was the legal guardian of his cousin Hadassah (that is, Esther), because she didn’t have a father or mother. The young woman had a beautiful figure and was extremely good-looking. When her father and mother died, Mordecai had adopted her as his own daughter.
Esther 2:10
Esther did not reveal her ethnic background or her birthplace, because Mordecai had ordered her not to.
Esther 2:15b & 17 (HCSB)
Esther won approval in the sight of everyone who saw her. The king loved Esther more than all the other women. She won more favor and approval from him than did any of the other young women. He placed the royal crown on her head and made her queen in place of Vashti.
The Jews living in exile must have felt forgotten by God Is it possible to be forgotten by God?
- No. Because even when we don’t see it or feel it, God is doing a good work.
- Jesus experienced the silence of God so that we don’t have to
- The ultimate proof that we are loved and not forgotten is the cross
- No. Because what God tells us about Himself is that He is all knowing, all seeing, all present.
Questions for reflection:
- Are you disconnected from God?
- How have you positioned yourself to hear from Him?
- Are you willing to trust and obey in the midst of what feels like silence?
- How are you going to help and council those around you who are disconnected or feel like God is silent?
Types of Doubts:
- Intellectual doubts.
- Spiritual doubts.
- Circumstantial doubts.
Overcoming doubt:
1. Admit our doubts and ask for help.
25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” John 20:25 (NIV)
2. Recognize that faith is a choice, not a feeling.
29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29 (NIV)
3. Act on our Faith, Not our Doubts.
Then he said to Thomas, put your finger here see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe. John 20:26-27. (NIV)
4. The real doubt resolver is watching God at work.
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 (NIV)
Mark 9:17–29 (ESV) And someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute. And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “ ‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.”
Praying away our doubts:
- Be authentic with God - Psalm 10:1 (NIV) Why, LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?
- Trust that God is able to help - Psalm 39:13 (ESV) Look away from me, that I may smile again, before I depart and am no more!”
- Ask God to help - Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
John 6:60–69 (NIV) On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, “Does this offend you? Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before! The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life. Yet there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.” From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”
Three considerations when we struggle in a season of doubt:
1. Consider our motives for following Jesus.
- Following Jesus for the material benefits.
- Following Jesus with a mob mentality.
- Jesus is not as concerned about how many followers He has as much as the kind of followers He has.
2. Consider the trust level required.
3. Consider the alternatives.
- Everyone has to go somewhere.
- To walk away from Jesus is at the same time rejecting everything about Jesus.
- To walk away from Jesus is at the same time embracing another worldview system entirely.
- There is no such thing as a worldview structure that is doubt free.
Matthew 11:1–6 (NIV)
After Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in the towns of Galilee. 2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” 4 Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: 5 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. 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”
Dealing With Doubt:
- Acknowledge Your Doubt. If john the Baptist struggled with a season of doubt, then it is possible for anyone to struggle with a season of doubt. John’s doubt is not condemned by Jesus.
- Be patient with your doubts. Doubt is very likely a temporary struggle. Never make, big, quick, permanent decisions to solve problems in temporary seasons. Doubt may not go away quickly.
- Express Your Doubts. Isolation could be the biggest contributor to seasons of doubt in our walk with Christ.
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Source Your Doubts.
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Pain
- The Distance of Jesus
- The Messianic expectations
- Intellectual Doubt
- Emotional Doubt
- Theological Doubt
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Moral Doubt
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Have I asked God to help me with my doubts?
- Do I have a sense of deep belonging in the church?
- Are their choices I’ve made that could be contributing to this season of doubt?
Matthew 11:1–6 (NIV) After Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in the towns of Galilee. 2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” 4 Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: 5 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. 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” Matthew 4:12 (ESV) Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee.
Community: A group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.
A Gospel Community: is a people devoted to one another. It's about a shared life, a network of relationships, a genuine community of people who love Jesus.
“Sin demands to have a man by himself. It withdraws him from the community. The more isolated a person is the more attractive will be the power of sin over him, and the more deeply he becomes involved in it, the more disastrous is his isolation.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer
In Gospel community we give and receive love.
13 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13
In Gospel Community we give and receive encouragement.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25
In Gospel community we give and receive protection.
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
In Gospel community, we give and receive truth. (Get Real with each other)
15 Instead, 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. Eph 4:15
In Gospel community, we give and receive grace.
"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Colossians 3:13)
The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community
- Love = Sacrifice
- Jesus will lead you through the discomforts of growing in generosity.
- Jesus will lead you through the discomforts of facing your fears.
Mark 8:31–38 (NIV)
He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
1 John 4:10 (ESV)
In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Romans 5:6–10 (NIV)
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!
“The Cross was the place where God and sinful man merged with a tremendous collision and where the way to life was opened. But all the cost and pain of the collision was absorbed by the heart of God.” ― Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest
1 John 3:16–18 (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. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV)
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.
Luke 14:25–33 (ESV)
Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? And if not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.
“I didn’t go to religion to make me happy. I always knew a bottle of Port would do that. If you want a religion to make you feel really comfortable, I certainly don’t recommend Christianity.” - CS Lewis
- Understand the requirement.
- Count the Cost
- Embrace the Uncomfortable
Jesus, I am yours totally, whatever that means.
John 4:14 (NIV)
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.”
"Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither." – CS Lewis
The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community:
- Understand the requirement.
- Count the Cost
- "Jesus, I am yours totally, whatever that means."
- Embrace the Uncomfortable
Luke 14:25–33 (ESV) "Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? And if not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple."
“I didn’t go to religion to make me happy. I always knew a bottle of Port would do that. If you want a religion to make you feel really comfortable, I certainly don’t recommend Christianity.” - CS Lewis
John 4:14 (NIV) "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."
"Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither." – CS Lewis
We can know that God is faithful because...
- God tells us that He is faithful
- Our life experiences suggest God is faithful
- The cross proves that God is faithful
“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” (A W Tozer - The Knowledge of the Holy)
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Exodus 34:6 The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
Psalm 36:5 Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.
Proverbs 3:5–6 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 16:9 (HCSB) A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
WHEN TEMPTATION COMES
Remove it.
Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace. 2 Timothy 2:22 (NIV)
WHAT YOU FEED GROWS.
WHAT YOU STARVE DIES.
Resist it.
Resist the devil and he will flee from you. James 4:17 (NIV)
Overcoming the appetites of the flesh.
Depends on the power of the Holy Spirit.
You have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. 13 For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. Romans 8:12-13 NLT
Follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Galatians 5:24-25 NIV
A WAY OUT
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 provide a way outso that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
FEED YOUR SPIRIT WITH PRAYER.
“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41 NIV
FEED YOUR SPIRIT WITH GOD’S WORD.
How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. 10 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:9-11 NIV
FEED YOUR SPIRIT WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE.
Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” 34 Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning... 1 Corinthians 15:33-34 NIV
James 1:13–16 (NIV) When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters.
Tests – πειρασμός
- Tests reveal our core.
- Tests reveal our competency.
- Tests reveal our capacity.
- Tests are opportunities to develop our character.
- Temptations are testing grounds!
Passing the Test of Temptation:
- No justifications.
- Own it.
- Understand the progression.
- Identify weaknesses.
- Establish boundaries.
- Re-route desires.
Proverbs 4:14–15 (NIV)
Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.
Philippians 4:8–9 (ESV)
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Principles of Temptation:
- Temptation is the lure and promise of greater happiness and satisfaction at the cost of obedience to God.
- Temptation is universal.
- Temptation is not sin.
- Temptation is occasional.
Dynamics of Temptation:
- Disguise
- Distortion
- Doubt
- Deceit
- Desires
- Death
Genesis 3:1–7 (NIV) 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 in the garden’?” 2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’ ” 4 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” 6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
Luke 4:1–13 (NIV) Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. 3 The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” 5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours.” 8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” 9 The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. 10 For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; 11 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” 12 Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” 13 When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.
Pastor Ky Faciane revisits our Vision series from last summer, focusing on the vision of the church going forward in 2022 and beyond.
This week, we focus on the last 'S' in B.L.E.S.S. for story. Pastor Ky speaks about the many ways we can bless our neighbors by sharing our stories!
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Let Jesus have all of you.
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Share from a place of natural overflow from your heart.
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Listen for receptivity.
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Types of people you will encounter: The Anti-dogmatic, The Comfortable, The Anxious, The Explorer, The Disillusioned, The Inquisitive, The Follower, The Faithful.
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Share without being forceful.
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Share your story.
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Have courage.
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Be an inviter.
Living a life that makes a difference:
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Be abandoned to Jesus Christ.
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Be fully engaged with the body of Christ.
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Be involved in your community.
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Be humble and gracious.
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Be motivated by the right things.
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Be willing to make the sacrifice.
This week, we focus on the 'E' in B.L.E.S.S. for eating. Pastor Ky speaks about the many ways we can bless our neighbors by practicing hospitality.
Principles of blessing others through eating:
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Be An Inviter.
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Be Hospitable.
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Be Courageous.
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Be Gracious.
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Be Real.
We are exploring five simple, straightforward practices to help you affect not just individual lives but your entire neighborhood and community—one person at a time. Today we focus on the "L" in BLESS - Listen with Care!
When you’ve been transformed by God’s love, you can’t help but want others to experience the same grace and freedom. But how do you share it without scaring them away or offending them? For most Christians, “evangelism” is an intimidating word that suggests handing out tracts to strangers or doing other awkward things.
Join us as we dive into this series based on Dave and Jon Ferguson's popular book "B.L.E.S.S. - 5 Everyday Ways to Love Your Neighbor and Change the World."
When you’ve been transformed by God’s love, you can’t help but want others to experience the same grace and freedom. But how do you share it without scaring them away or offending them? For most Christians, “evangelism” is an intimidating word that suggests handing out tracts to strangers or doing other awkward things.
But what if there was a more organic, more authentic way to share your faith with your friends, neighbors, and coworkers?
We will explore five simple, straightforward practices that will allow any believer to do just that. And by consistently living them out, you can affect not just individual lives but your entire neighborhood and community—one person at a time.
Join us as we dive into this new series based on Dave and Jon Ferguson's popular book "B.L.E.S.S. - 5 Everyday Ways to Love Your Neighbor and Change the World."
I Peter 1:3-8
• We have a Living Hope
• We have a permanent Inheritance
• We have a Divine Protection
• We have a Developing Faith
• We have an Unseen Savior
• We have a Guaranteed Deliverance
“We should ask God to increase our hope when it is small, awaken it when it is dormant,confirm it when it is wavering, strengthen it when it is weak, and raise it up when it is overthrown.” (John Calvin)
Pastor Kacy Benson preaches on Sunday December 26th, 2021.
RE-CONNECT WITH YOUR PURPOSE IN 2022.
We are called to be ambassadors for Jesus.
We are called to do good works for Jesus.
We are called to be Messengers of love from Jesus.
We are called by Jesus to be disciples OUR PRIMARY PURPOSE IS TO BRING GLORY TO GOD.
God wants to do something IN you so that He can do something THROUGH you in 2022.
Pastor Matt Werner Preaches the 2021 Christmas Eve Message at our Dripping Springs Campus.
Pastor Matt Werner continues our series on flipping the script of identity in our lives.
Pastor Matt Werner continues our series on flipping the script of identity in our lives.
Flipping the script of identity in our lives:
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Understand the power of your identity.
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Receive the reality of your identity.
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Respond to the revelation of your identity.
Pastor Ky continues our series on Searching for Happiness. We all want it... how do we get it?
Pastor Ky continues our series on Searching for Happiness. We all want it... how do we get it?
Pastor Ky continues our series on Searching for Happiness. We all want it... how do we get it?
Ecclesiastes 2:18-26New Living Translation
The Futility of Work 18 I came to hate all my hard work here on earth, for I must leave to others everything I have earned. 19 And who can tell whether my successors will be wise or foolish? Yet they will control everything I have gained by my skill and hard work under the sun. How meaningless! 20 So I gave up in despair, questioning the value of all my hard work in this world.
21 Some people work wisely with knowledge and skill, then must leave the fruit of their efforts to someone who hasn’t worked for it. This, too, is meaningless, a great tragedy. 22 So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety? 23 Their days of labor are filled with pain and grief; even at night their minds cannot rest. It is all meaningless.
24 So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. 25 For who can eat or enjoy anything apart from him?[a] 26 God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him. But if a sinner becomes wealthy, God takes the wealth away and gives it to those who please him. This, too, is meaningless—like chasing the wind.
Pastor Ky begins a new series on Searching for Happiness. We all want it... how do we get it?
Pastor Ky concludes our special series on VISION. Matthew 28:19-20 "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.”
Pastor Kacy Benson speaks about Noah's obedience to the Lord: Noah obeyed the Lord when everyone else did not.
Obedience gives us strength and comfort in times of trouble, gives us hope in times of suffering and helps us back to the right path.
Obedience brings victory, disobedient brings defeat. Instant obedience is the only kind of obedience - delayed obedience is disobedience. It’s not hard to obey when we love the one whom we obey!
Pastor Ky begins a special series on VISION. What does God have in store for Bannockburn Church? What is our shared vision for our communities of South Austin, Dripping Springs, and Buda-Kyle?
Matthew 28:19-20 "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.”