Calvary Chapel Sebastian: Recent Episodes
Calvary Chapel Melbourne
A weekly audio podcast of the teachings at Calvary Chapel Melbourne (CCM). CCM seeks to glorify God by expositional teaching through the whole Bible. CCM services are streamed live and available in archives all from https://www.calvaryccm.com. Together, let's do life right!
Today we learn from Paul that the true way to be properly prepared as disciples is to focus on the love of God and his plan for the earth.
Throughout the book of Judges, God puts on display the blessings of obedience and the consequences of disobedience. Through Gideon’s disregard for God’s law and plans, we see how the next generation departs from God’s promises. God’s unbroken promises to His people are “what we sow, we will reap”!
The good news for the Thessalonian church was they were continuing to grow in their faith. Paul thanked God and boasted about their conduct and character during persecution and trials, which are part of a Christians daily life.
The enemy seeks to divide and isolate God's people, but we can triumph by obeying God's commands. 1 Thessalonians has God’s command for a church united through God’s love and His Spirit.
Judges 8 details Gideon's pursuit and capture of the Midianite kings and their armies. Instead of glorifying the Lord, Gideon finds ways to glorify himself. The work of the Lord does not carry on to the next generation, because the people of the Lord do not carry on in Him.
God’s compassion and constant loving care for His people, He will deliver us from fear, save us out of our troubles, and show us His goodness.
Today we learn from Paul the reason we do not need to know the date of the end times is because we are already saved and therefore our concern should be for others who do not know Jesus yet.
In 1 Thessalonians 4:9-18, Paul encourages with the blessed assurance that at Christ's return, the dead in Christ will rise first and we’ll all be with the Lord forever. Our hope is in God and not this world.
Judges 7 recounts how Gideon, guided by God's command, led a small army of 300 men to victory against the vast Midianite forces. This miraculous triumph illustrates that we are more powerful in God's hands than relying on our own strength.
Paul presents his instructions to this church affectionately in Love. Continue doing well, mature more and more in your walk of faith, living to please God.
In Judges 6:25-40, God initiates the cycle of grace with Gideon by instructing him to destroy his father's altar to Baal and build an altar to the Lord. This process of God’s work in Gideon’s life marks the beginning of his transformation from a fearful man to a faithful leader.
1 Thessalonians 3 stresses the church's establishment in Christ during trials. Paul sends Timothy to strengthen their faith, rejoices at their commitment, and prays for their continued growth in Christ.
The story of Gideon shows that God is not limited by our fears and weaknesses. God can and does chose people like you and me to accomplish his will on this earth.
Today we learn that spreading the gospel is in reality inviting people to their eternal home.
When God delivers us from evil and brings about victory in our lives, it should cause us to praise Him with all our hearts and to encourage others to join our song. God delivered Deborah and the Israelites from oppression, but He has delivered us from something greater. Celebrate with us!
This opening chapter is short, only ten verses, although we will see Paul commend these young Christians for their work of faith, labor of love and steadfastness in hope. Paul had a joyful heart praising God, these believers are not only thriving, spiritually, they are working hard to spread the gospel to the rest of the world.
A godly mother is building a legacy of courage, faith, and greatness. Jochebed, portrayed in Exodus as an honorable mother, exemplifies sacrificial love and devotion. Godly mothers, like Jochebed, are to be honored for their unwavering devotion, selflessness, and the profound impact they have on shaping the lives of their children and communities.
Today we learn through Deborah that true faith means we can trust in God in all situations.
In Daniel chapter 12, we learn about a time of trouble, but faithfulness to God has a rich reward, not necessarily in this life, but certainly for all of eternity.
Today learn that true discipleship means staying the course, keeping calm, and being the light for others no matter the situation.
Palm Sunday is more than just Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey and the people waving palm branches. Today is the day Jesus announces to the world that he is the Messiah. He is the answer to our prayers and the source of our salvation.
Daniel 8 continues our journey through the prophetic visions that Daniel received during his time in Babylon. But prophecy serves a purpose beyond predicting the future. Biblical prophecy serves as a testament to our faith in God, offering glimpses of His divine plan, guiding believers through uncertain times with the assurance of His promises.
Psalms 1, we will see the contrast between a life that is blessed and a Life that is Not. We will see that it depends on us.
Daniel and his dream offer hope to all future generations of God's people, knowing one day The Everlasting Kingdom of God will come.
In 2 Peter 3:11-18, Peter urges believers to live holy and godly lives, anticipating the day of the Lord's return. He emphasizes the importance of diligence, peace, and growth in the knowledge of Christ. As we await His coming, let us depart with grace, striving to be found in peace, without spot or blemish, and growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In Daniel 5, Belshazzar worshipped gods made by human hands, and we see that all proud leaders will fall, God will not be mocked. God had weighed him against the standard of His holiness, and he was found lacking.
God has a way of humbling the proud, often through experiences that challenge their sense of self-importance. When we recognize our own limitations and acknowledge the sovereignty of God, we can begin to undergo transformation and restoration. Daniel 4 illustrates this biblical truth that God has a plan to save the proud through humility.
The only way to avoid deception is fall fully under the authority of Truth. God’s truth! When we aim to live a praiseworthy life, our journey leads us towards His righteousness and away from the sin of this world.
Peter ended the previous chapter by affirming the validity of the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. Peter's confidence was based on his own personal experiences with Jesus. Peter now begins to warn his readers about false teachers.
Join us as learn how God working through Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego foreshadowed the salvation we have through Jesus Christ.
In 2 Peter 1:12-21, Peter underscores the need to continually remind ourselves of Jesus' teachings to strengthen our faith. By staying rooted in His words, we guard against doubt and temptation, remaining steadfast in anticipation of His return. Diligent preparation through studying His teachings ensures we are ready for His imminent coming, guiding us towards righteousness and unwavering readiness.
This weekend we learn how the great vision King Nebuchadnezzar received really foreshadows the coming work of Jesus Christ and how he calls the whole world to him.
Peter was warning the Christian brothers and sisters about false teaching and to encourage them to grow in their faith and their knowledge of Jesus.
Daniel 1 narrates the story of Daniel and his companions, who, despite being taken captive, remain steadfast in their faith. The chapter highlights the principle that God fosters spiritual growth through grace in times of crisis. As these young men face challenges, their unwavering trust in God becomes a testament to the transformative power of His grace, illustrating how faith can flourish amidst adversity.
Join us for our vision weekend message on how we can focus and prioritize keeping Jesus First in our personal lives and prepare our hearts for Prayer Week.
Praying without ceasing is emphasized as a continuous and unwavering communication with our Creator, fostering a deep and unbroken connection with God. It is the point of connection for believers to know and understand the Lord. Prayer does not move God. Prayer moves us into God’s will and there we see change, deliverance, and revival in His power.
Today we learn that because of the amazing work of Jesus Christ we can soar on wings like eagles and no matter what happens in life we can run and not grow weary and we can walk and not be faint.
Haggai 1:1-11 issues a powerful call for spiritual renewal by urging the Jewish community to prioritize rebuilding the neglected temple in Jerusalem. The prophet emphasizes the connection between their neglect of God's house and their difficulties, highlighting the need for a renewed commitment to Kingdom priorities. A timeless message that embracing God's will and actively participating in His work provides a chance for a fresh start and spiritual rejuvenation. And we can all use that.
Today we learn one of the greatest gifts we receive at Christmas is the hope we have in Jesus.
In 1 Peter 5, elders are urged to shepherd with humility and diligence, anticipating heavenly rewards. Believers are encouraged to embrace humility, entrusting their worries to God, who cares for them. The chapter emphasizes vigilance against adversity and concludes with a reminder of the sustaining grace of God.
Peter urges Christians to be committed to fulfilling the purpose of our lives in Christ. We have been rescued from meaningless lives and set apart from the world, in order to be used for God's purpose.
In Colossians 3:18-4:1 addresses God’s plan for relationships at home and work. Paul lays down the prescription that emphasizes submitting to God and to each other to foster unity in the Kingdom of God. We must all find surrender to God’s plan before we find success throughout our lives and relationships.
It is inevitable that in this life Christians will suffer. 1 Peter 3 addresses the concept of enduring earthly; physical adversity while maintaining spiritual resilience. The passage emphasizes facing external challenges with a steadfast spirit, drawing strength from God’s faithfulness even during trials. It underscores the idea that, through unwavering commitment to God’s calling, individuals can triumph over physical hardships and emerge spiritually victorious.
Today Paul reminds us that no matter the situation we can have joy and share about Jesus.
When we make choices apart from God, there will be consequences. Many of them permanent. In Joshua 9, we learn the importance of leaning on God, and that He is more than able to redeem all situations no matter what.
We are all a part of a family of God. We are joined by our Father in heaven, uniting us together by the blood of Christ. But what does that mean for us? And what does that look like? Philippians lays the groundwork of the type of work we do in the family of God.
Joshua 8 focuses on a crucial phase of Israel's conquest of the Promised Land. After an initial loss at Ai, Joshua consults God for guidance moving forward. With God's wisdom and direction, Joshua's new strategy prevails. The chapter highlights his reliance on divine counsel, underscoring the fusion of spiritual insight with faithful obedience. This pivotal moment underscores Joshua's role as a leader who forges obedience, strategic thinking, and faith to secure victory and fulfill their destiny in the Promised Land.
In Jonah chapters 3 and 4, Jonah reluctantly obeys God's command to warn Nineveh of their impending destruction. The people of Nineveh repent. Jonah's anger reveals his personal biases and self-righteousness, as he had hoped for their downfall. The story emphasizes the danger of allowing such attitudes to cloud our understanding of God's broader purpose and the importance of aligning with His mercy and redemption.
Tonight we learn how devastating the affects of sin can be. In Joshua 7 Achan’s actions affected not just him and his family but also all of Israel.
The story of Jonah is the perfect example of God’s love for his people. No matter who we are, what we do, or how far we run, God is always there to answer our prayers and welcome us back.
Joshua 5-6 recounts Jericho's fall, demonstrating faith, obedience, and God's power. Israelites, led by the "Commander of the Lord's Army," obey a unique strategy: circling Jericho for 7 days and blowing the trumpets to the Lord. The story inspires us to trust God's plans, obey His guidance, and see His power in dismantling life's barriers through faith and perseverance in Him
Jonah tried to run away from God, God was in control. God controlled the storm and a great fish, God gives a second chance, displaying His absolute, yet loving kindness, compassion, and guidance.
Tonight we see how everything God called the Israelites to do strengthened and increased their faith in him. Join us as we study this great story and learn how it directly relates to the saving work of Jesus.
God designed the Armor of God specifically to equip believers for spiritual warfare. God provides everything a warrior would need to defend their faith and walk in righteousness. This is because the battle belongs to the Lord.
Joshua points to God's faithfulness, and the importance of stepping out in faith, trust, and obedience before, during, and after God fulfills His promises, bringing the Israelites into the land He promised to Abraham.
The beauty of Paul’s teaching about the armor of God is we get to see God’s true power and its effect on our lives. Not only in saving us but in us being part of that saving plan for the world.
Rahab, a courageous Canaanite woman from Jericho, sheltered Israelite spies, securing her family's safety during the city's fall. Her act of kindness and inclusion in Jesus' lineage highlight the power of redemption and grace, as recounted in the book of Joshua.
Today we learn from Joshua that following God no matter where he calls us requires us to have faith, to be bold, and to be courageous.
In a Spirit-filled home, God's plan is paramount. Children must honor and obey their parents, guided by the same Spirit that leads their parents. Parents, in turn, nurture their children in God's ways, with love. This fosters spiritual growth, unity, and a deep connection with God. The home becomes the very sanctuary where God's plan unfolds, and His presence is evident to the world.
Today we learn a Christian marriage mirrors Christ's love for the church and both husband and wife have a special role laid out by God.
As believers, we are called to serve God and others with the gifts we have received. 1 Peter 4:10 reminds us that our service reflects God's love, brings glory to Him, and fulfills our purpose in the world. We serve out of the overflow of God’s generosity and are called to become the change we want to see. By embracing our role as servants, we participate in God's work and demonstrate His love to a hurting world.
The true measure of a person’s faith is not found in what he or she professes as much as it is in his or her lifestyle, our walk our actions, God’s plan and pattern of service in our life.
Ephesians 5 emphasizes three essential walks: love, light, and wisdom. Believers are urged to imitate God by loving selflessly, walking in the truth, and making wise choices. These walks shape a righteous life, characterized by love, truth, and discernment. As imitators of God we become His gospel message in the world.
What a remarkable chapter, Paul was very relational. Paul will greet people by name, also greeting several churches that were meeting in homes. Paul will close Romans with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, with God's purpose of uniting believing Jews and gentiles in the body of Christ the church.
Today we see Paul call out one of the biggest problems of our time. The refusal to see our own sin. Join us as we learn how this affects our lives, the lives of others, and more importantly how we can change to truly follow Jesus the way we were meant to.
Romans 15 highlights the importance of unity and love within the Christian community. It encourages believers to accept and support one another, despite their differences, and to focus on glorifying God together through their actions and attitudes. To show the world the effectiveness of the Ministry of Unity!
Paul will emphasis to the church to live and walk a life in a manner worthy of the calling they have received in which our daily lives correspond to our blessed position in Christ, walking in unity with Jesus and other believers.
Ephesians 3 includes a profound prayer of Paul, expressing his desire for believers to be strengthened by God's Spirit, rooted in Christ's love, and filled with the fullness of God. He highlights the immeasurable power and love of God, reminding us that He can do far beyond what we can imagine, and that all glory belongs to Him. It is an inspiring passage encouraging us to have faith in God's limitless abilities and to experience the depth of His love.
Paul now begins to encourage us to start serving, turning our learning into living for God.
Today we learn the mystery of God’s church as revealed to Paul. This mystery is the great message of Jesus that is for all people. Both Jew and Gentile are of the same body and called to share the Gospel with the world.
By knowing Christ’s love for us, we are able to truly love others and are empowered to surrender ourselves to God.
Paul wrote about the new relationship we have with God through His Grace. Paul will now tell us about our new relationship with one another, a new life in the fellowship of God’s church.
Tonight we learn God's call to the world is universal and irrevocable. The same amazing love that brought free grace to the world all ensures it never ends. Join us as we learn the greatness of God's love and his plan for all people.
In Ephesians 2, we see God’s plan for a once spiritually dead people, separated from God, by His grace made us alive in Christ. Salvation is a gift, showcasing God's love. We're saved for good works, displaying His purpose in us. Our transformed lives testify to God's grace and bring Him glory.
It was Paul’s desire and prayer to God for Israel that they may be saved. The Jewish people like everyone else can only find salvation through Jesus. Righteousness is based on faith in Jesus.
Today we learn from Paul what it means to possess the hope to which we are called. This hope will see us through all trials, it will provide direction when it seems there is none, and it will provide hope and lifeline to those who have none.
Has God given up on Israel? After Christ, Paul shows how Israel fits into God’s plans. Chapter 9 shows how the more we understand God’s wisdom, goodness, and glory the more we walk in the riches of His grace. God’s greatness is shown in His love for His children as much as it is shown in His power against His enemies.
Paul writes an inspiring letter to the Ephesians, opening their eyes to the process and blessings of Christian living “Our Position in Christ.” To inspire and strengthen the believers in Ephesus in their Christian walk of faith by explaining the nature and purpose of the church, the body of Christ, standing in the truth of God’s word.
Tonight we learn the true meaning of the phrase “If God is for us, who can be against us.” This evening Paul teaches us the love of Jesus Christ has no bounds and no power in the universe can pull us from him.
The glory of heaven is beyond our comprehension. But even with its indescribable beauty the true gift of heaven is to be with God the Father and his Son for all eternity. Join us as we study this heavenly realm and more important then that how we get there.
Paul walks us through the life of victory on the days after salvation. There is no victory without Jesus Christ. We will not carry on in triumph without the Holy Spirit. Our life and its success are tied to us being united with God in all things.
The "Heaven and Hell" sermon series explores the nature of these two eternal realms and what they mean for us as believers. Part one of the series focuses on the reality of hell as a place of eternal punishment for those who reject God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ. A sobering reminder of the reality of hell and the importance of taking it seriously.
Today as we celebrate Easter, we will look at an invitation to God’s Open House, given to us through Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. We will see the barriers God has removed, the Veil, and Stone inviting us into a relationship with Him. We will also see the door a barrier that we must remove as well.
Paul begins this last section of his letter now by giving instructions about several issues that are important in the Christian community, the church emphasizes the type of life Christians under grace are to live. This means that the Spirit leads us and transforms us from the inside out.
Christ has set us free from sin and the Law. But we are still called to fulfill the Law. People have tried to accomplish this under their own power and works. This is called legalism and it fell short. Other people claim we are free from the law and can live however we feel without penalty. This is called license and it ends in destruction. Our only hope is the same Spirit that has set us free now fills up with His power to freely follow God where He goes. Liberty in Christ!
Paul demonstrates that sin and death came to men and women through Adam, and how the actions of one man have such a wide-reaching effect. The good news is that righteousness, and life came through grace in Jesus Christ.
This morning Paul teaches us that through Jesus Christ we are truly free. Free from sin. Free from shame. Free from legalism. It’s faith alone in Jesus that matters.
God has called us to righteousness by faith. We could never be good enough to achieve the perfect righteousness that God requires, but instead He asks to bring Biblical type faith instead. But what is Biblical Faith? It is faith not in anything other than God Himself as the object of our faith.
Today we learn the true vastness of God’s love for us. Paul teaches that God sent Jesus to die and pay for our sins while we were still sinners. There is no greater love than this.
In the closing verses of Galatians 4, Paul continues to make the case that our self-righteousness cannot mix with God’s righteousness. We must only serve one. We are either a people that trust the promises of God or replace them by taking on the burden of our salvation ourselves.
The Jewish Christians in Rome would immediately have asked Paul “How does this doctrine of Justification by faith relate to our history? Paul accepted this challenge and explained how.
In chapter 3 & 4 of Galatians, Paul makes a passionate plea to not forget who they are in Christ. Rituals and observing holidays can never win God’s favor more than a direct relationship with Him. We never earned the things that God has offered to us by grace. We are His children and heirs through Christ because He chose us in love.
Paul’s lesson on sin teaches us that we must first be conscious of it and understand our accountability. Then we can begin to repent and be made righteous in God’s eyes.
The blessings from God could only come through God’s unchanging promises. Paul teaches the Galatians that believers are justified by Jesus alone, not by works of the law.
Tonight we see how all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. But the good news is we are all redeemed and made righteous through the work of Jesus Christ.
In chapter 3 of Galatians, Paul is flabbergasted that people of God have abandoned the gospel of God for a false gospel. He makes the case that they must never leave their first love. By re-establishing the gospel of Christ, he takes aim to call God’s people back to a life of grace and not of works.
Today we see Paul show us what it means to die to ourselves and live for Christ. His faith in action is a great example for us to follow as we look to make Jesus’ name known.
Romans 2 is written to reprimand the Jews that living by the law and circumcision is not a badge of righteousness to God. Paul contends that living by rules and regulations only brings about judgment and condemnation. The case made in the book of Romans makes the case that a true believer is one that is qualified by circumcision of the heart by the Spirit of God. This removes all diplomatic immunity for Christians and throttles our need for Christ’s Divine Immunity.
Today we learn in Paul’s letter to the Galatians the message of salvation through Jesus is the perfect message. Nothing can be added or taken away because it is perfect.
In Romans 1, Paul makes a case that those who have sinned and do not repent will face God's wrath. He urges believers to flee from this wrath by turning to God in faith. This faith is based on God's authority and mercy, which is revealed in Jesus Christ. Through Christ, God offers not only forgiveness, but the eternal life designed by Him to all who believe.
True Christianity has always had a vital connection between what we say and the way we act. DISCIPLESHIP, the most amazing invitation in all the world to walk with Jesus, with a teachable spirit eager to be changed and grow to be like Christ.
Paul’s letter to the Romans is wonderful message on the saving grace we receive through Jesus Christ. Join us as we begin to unpack this amazing message.
Today we learn how God’s plan for salvation was laid piece by piece through imperfect people. The story of Zechariah and Elizabeth shows us that nothing is impossible with God and his love and patience endures forever.
Jesus is the Son of God, God's perfect representation, and a symbol of love, forgiveness, and peace. Through Jesus, we learn that God is our loving Father and that He desires a relationship with us. Without Jesus, there is no Christmas for you, for me, and for God.
Peter’s life is a beautiful example of how failure does not define our life. With the pen of forgiveness, Christ writes into redemption as the defining character of our story. When God forgives our sin and uses us despite it, our life becomes the living testimony to Jesus’ love.
Today we learn the true meaning of joy. Because God created us, watches over us, and his love endures forever we have reason to celebrate.
Tonight we learn from Paul what it means to be joyful and full of thanks in all situations.
Resurrection Sunday is the very center point of our faith. If not for the power that raised Christ from the dead who would steal us from death? But knowing that Christ was raised from the dead is not enough. We must believe God’s purpose was that Jesus is coming back to us!
Words first written by David would later become the anguished cry of our Messiah. These are the words of Christ the man as He poured Himself out for us. The experience is lonely, terrifying, and yet filled with hope for us. As Christ offered Himself up for us on the cross, we see Him quote the words of Psalm 22 and we should take them to heart.
Many of the Old Testament prophecies were now being fulfilled. The Lamb of God shed His blood, and that blood takes away the sins of the world, the sacrifice for sin had now been completed.
What is truth? During Jesus’ many trials, Pilate and the Pharisees demanded to know the facts about Him. Yet, not all men who were looking for answers were ready to find the Truth. Are you prepared to receive the Truth?
Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible, just two verses, this psalm is all about praise to our Lord for His loving kindness, faithfulness, and the truth of the Lord that endures forever.
Today we learn that when we are at our worst Jesus is at his best and through him all things are possible.
There is nothing that expresses who we are in our life as prayer. Jesus was a man of great prayer. This is the greatest prayer ever prayed here on earth and the greatest prayer recorded anywhere in the scripture.
The finished tabernacle represents the beginning of God’s work to save his People. Jesus Christ is the completion of that work.
The night before our Messiah’s crucifixion He comforts His very scared and nervous disciples. Hours before Christ arrest, Jesus leaves His disciples with words of peace and conquering. On the other side of the crisis in our life God has a plan that will deliver to us a peace and joy that passes all understanding.
God is so pure and holy that nothing can be in His presence that is not holy. Anyone without Christ is considered unrighteous and an enemy of the Lord. Yet God desires to be with His people. Exodus 39 is journey into the heart and mind of our God as He prepared us for His presence.
DISCIPLESHIP, the most amazing invitation in all the world to walk with Jesus growing in His likeness, as we lead others toward Christ.
The process of redemption and salvation started with the law and the tabernacle. Jesus Christ is the completion of that work and it is because of him we can approach God directly.
Who is the Holy Spirit and how can we get to know Him? Often the most understood person of the Trinity, it can be hard to understand if He is more spirit than a person of the Godhead. To get to know the Holy Spirit we must find how scripture clearly defines His role in our life. Jesus expertly lays out who the Holy Spirit is to us in this passage.
The final lesson Jesus taught his disciples was to show love even as the world turned against them. Join us to learn how the Holy Spirit would be the key to their success.
God desires to be with His people. We enter His holy presence by His prescription and design. We must be prepared in His righteousness for worship that is worthy of Him. The book of Exodus is that prescription of preparation.
Tonight, we see the Israelites understood God’s purpose by the way the gave their offerings. They kept the main thing, the main thing.
Earlier in chapter 14, Jesus was explaining that He is the Way, the Truth, the Life, and the only way to know the Father intimately. Now Jesus comforts His disciples by describing how the Holy Spirit will take over as their Advocate and Counselor. A very important lesson for every disciple to understand that by obeying the Spirit of the Lord, we can enter His presence and experience His power.
Today we learn that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life and because of him all things are possible.
After the incident with the Golden Calf and Moses intervening, God graciously lays out His plan and purpose for His people. God continues His instruction on how to live a lifestyle of generosity. And who better to teach and instruct us in the ways of giving than the Lord of all blessings.
Fellowship at the last supper, it was discerning. Jesus was aware of the selfish ambition of Judas and his betrayal, also of Peters impulsive actions, his weakness that led to his denial of Jesus. Jesus will communicate to each of them His constant Love.
Tonight, we learn how the law convicts us and shows us our sin. But to our joy and delight Jesus Christ has fulfilled the law, redeemed us, and forgiven us.
We come to the last 24 hours of Christ life. In these final hours we see Christ as the servant leader pouring out His love and guidance on the disciples. How does teach this lesson? He sets the example by lowering Himself to wash the feet of those who serve Him.
God is love, full of grace, but to those who disobey His command to come to Christ for forgiveness of sins, they will give an account for their sins. God does not leave the guilty unpunished.
Today we learn that to be followers of Jesus we must die to ourselves. Our faith should glorify Him and it should be bright light for all others to see.
God’s people cannot seem get away from a myriad of bad choices and running away from God. Moses seems to have struggles as a leader. And yet the Lord calls Moses His friend. Throughout the Bible, God calls Himself a friend of sinners. In God we find all the qualities of a great friend kindness, patience, and compassion. More importantly God shows His faithfulness to His people in all circumstances.
This account of Jesus coming to Bethany, having dinner with His friends, show us how we should serve our Lord with all our heart and the different ways we serve our Lord giving Him back our best.
Tonight, we learn from the Israelites what not to do. To truly follow God means we need to make decision for him, take action, and separate from the world when needed.
“I am the resurrection and the life.” Christ uses these words to describe His heavenly mission but also His earthly ministry. Jesus’ goal is to lead us to heaven, but He is also will walk with us through the here and now. Through His supreme power and authority of life and death, He announces His love for us as He leads from death to life.
God's emphasis and careful details on worship and service are spelled out leaving nothing to chance, every detail right down to the ingredients for the anointing oil and this incense. Our worship, our service for God must be purposeful, meaningful, and never be casual.
Today we learn the real reason Jesus went to tomb of Lazarus. It was not just to raise him from the dead but to prove he was the Messiah because he had the power to raise him from the dead.
In Exodus 29, we find Aaron and his sons were God’s priests under the old covenant. Peter in the New Testament, would write that Jesus’ resurrection, under the new covenant, we are now all called to be priests. 1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” It leads us to read the description of Aaron’s consecration as a beautiful picture of how God wants each of us to live out our daily lives before Him.
Jesus declares Himself to be the Messiah, the Son of God and many believed. His identity is that He is the good shepherd my sheep hear my voice and are safe and secure in my hands.
All through the Bible we learn how God loves his people and sets them apart. Tonight we will learn how the anointing oil, the ransom, and incense are the picture of God’s love for his people.
Christ uses an earthly image of a shepherd to convey two very profound things. First, is that Jesus is our sanctuary. He will always be a safe place for His sheep. Second, there is a gateway to this sanctuary, and it is Jesus. We only have one way into the presence of God and that is through Christ alone.
I was blind and now I see. These simple words are the best description of what Jesus does for each us. Join us as we learn this great story of the blind man receiving his sight.
God will tell the priests that it is time to suit up. God is taking His people from slavery in Egypt into full knowledge of how to worship and service in His ministry. But this is not just ancient prescription but a shadow of things to come in Christ. No words are wasted in scripture from the first to the last. All point to the priesthood of Christ.
Jesus calls us as disciples to hold onto to His word, obey, and know the truth. Jesus tells the Jews that “believe in Him” that they will know the truth, and the truth will set them free , true freedom from sin in Christ.
In the Old Testament the law and the tabernacle were the start of God’s plan to save his people. Jesus Christ is the completion of that work.
Jesus continues to identify who He is the messiah the creator of life, and His life brings light to mankind. Jesus boldly declares, “I am the light of the world.
The ark had many names, The ark of the covenant, The ark of God. This would symbolize the throne of God, and the focus of God’s presence with His people.
When Jesus said “whoever is without sin may cast the first stone” his words showed the proud their sin and brought hope to the condemned.
God now moves to instruct His people on worship. In the middle of their desert journey will teach His people how to prepare for the presence of God. First lesson starts with the heart of worship and generosity.
These verses show the many reactions people had toward Jesus. They agreed on their opposition and their determination to get rid of Him. They choose to be opposed to believe who Jesus was. Jesus will bring the feast to a fitting climax, Jesus boldly called people to Himself to drink and satisfy their deepest thirst, their spiritual thirst.
Tonight, we learn how the 10 commandments, the altar, and animal sacrifice all foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ.
In John 7:1-31 Christ presses through our barriers to our belief. Or better yet, our barriers caused by disbelief. Jesus, through His obedience and faithfulness to God will lay out how we can break through problems of disbelief.
We are called to do what is right as Christ followers no matter what other people do. Loving our neighbor through our actions, being just in everything towards everyone. God gives us wise direction on how we should live in peace and harmony.
When God builds a nation He reveals His plan by His laws concerning stealing, damages by fire, care of the property of others, borrowing, sex before marriage, sacrifices to false gods, taking advantage of widows, moneylending, reviling God, and even the consecration of firstborn of men and of animals. God has spoken and the men of Israel are commanded to be holy. A family, a tribe, and a nation set apart.
God has a plan for Building our marriage, our foundation needs to be built on Christ, then we will be fulfilling God’s purposes for our marriage enjoying life together.
The laws were given because everything we do has consequences; we will look at some principals that will make it possible for the courts of law to make judgment based on the spirit of the Ten Commandments.
On this Easter weekend we learn why Jesus Christ is worthy to open the scroll. Because of his death and resurrection he once and for all defeated death and saved us all.
On Good Friday, Christians focus on Jesus Christ's crucifixion, Good Friday is so dark and painful, and Easter is joyful because of the Blessings that come out of this tragedy.
As we come now to the fifth commandment, the focus shifts from our conduct toward God to our relationships and conduct with each other. From the vertical to the horizontal dimensions of life, our relationship to one another.
Palm Sunday made famous historically by the celebration of Christ the King entering Jerusalem. Yet it can be a conundrum to hear the crowds say “Hosanna, God save us!” on Palm Sunday and then demand “Crucify Him” on Friday. How did the people of Jerusalem turn on Christ so quickly? Their expectations would end up limiting what they thought a successful God should do. The problem was not the palm branches or the coats on the ground. The problem was who they thought Jesus would be.
With the Hebrews setting up camp at the foot of Mount Sinai. We reach a climactic moment in the book of Exodus. Everything up to now has been in preparation for the events that are about to happen. God is ready to present His people with ten principals to guide them in their relationship with Him and with one another.
So far in our study, the Israelites know God as Savior. But salvation is just the beginning. We have come to the place in the Book of Exodus where God is going to define the relationship moving forward. But first, the Lord needs to introduce Himself. Next, He will teach these people how to be in right relationship with Him.
The greatest deed is The Gospel - Jesus forgiving our sins and changing our lives . The Kingdom of God has come to us. To change lives so that the world can see the Heart of our Lord. We thank God for using our church for the past 30 years to make The Gospel known. Come and see the good things God is doing and celebrate the lives changed.
The importance of a godly family cannot be overstated. Tonight we see how even the strongest believers need support from godly and god fearing family members to help us stay on course.
Moving toward Mount Sinai, the Israelites are still being led by the Pillar of cloud and Fire by night God’s presence. Our Lord was directing the Israelites into a journey of growth and a trial of their faith.
God still does miracles today. We can be in a situation that requires a miracle right now. But as God provides a miracle are we ready to see what His answer might reveal about both our heart and God’s? A miracle can reveal an even deeper cry in our soul beyond the need. Join us as we peel back the layers of a miracle.
Tonight we are going to see how God prepared the hearts of the Israelites by humbling them, letting them hunger, feeding them generously, and then teaching them that man does not live on bread alone but by the word that comes from the mouth of God.
As believers we may at some point get asked this question. Who did Jesus come for? It’s a great question. How will you answer it? Did Jesus come for the people who are good, with moral standards? Did he come for those who were sick? Listen in as we can walk away with the Heart of why and who Jesus came and died on the cross for.
The Israelites left Egypt rejoicing and celebrating. Pharaoh wanted them back. But God was so faithful to His people, He did not let this happen, what would happen is this said the Lord, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.
Jesus came that we may have life, so why do we make it so hard to receive this new life that Jesus freely came to give? Listen in as we discover one man who responds to Jesus much like us, he will confuse the salvation message.
Israel’s exodus experience will teach them important lessons about freedom and success from following, trusting ,and praising God as they remember God’s goodness and guidance.
Today we learn how Jesus turning water into wine represents the new life he brings to each of us. We also see how Jesus chasing the money changers out of the temple represents the old system being torn down and the new church being built on his shoulders.
God is a God that loves us so much that He gives us free will, free choice to follow Him or deny Him. Listen in as we learn that there isa purpose for the plagues that God sent to Egypt. God is a God of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th chances. His grace abounds!
Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Let my people go, God is telling Pharaoh that the Israelites belong to Him, they should be free, all God’s children should be free without having doubt. God will reassure Moses and us as well to trust Him in all our troubles for He will use it for His glory.
To truly be called by God we need to be humbled, stretched, and sent out according to His plan. Tonight we will see this process play out in Moses’ life.
The book of John answers those who would oppose Jesus and his deity. In other words, the book of John proves Jesus’s true identity, the Son of God.
Fearing God means having such a reverence for Him that it has a great impact on the way we live our lives. We will learn about two women who refused to obey the command of Pharaoh, because they feared God.
Exodus " the way out " we will see God's redemptive plan unfold as we follow the journey of the Jewish people and watch them "Walking to Freedom" as God led them out of Slavery into freedom, out of darkness into light.
The first account of God speaking the word go is in Genesis when He told Noah to go into the ark. God told Abram to go to the land He would show him. God told Moses to go and bring the Israelites out of Egypt, at one point God told Jesus to GO to earth. Jesus spoke it often as we are to go and make disciples.
Sometimes we can rob ourselves of God’s blessings when we listen to our thoughts and not God’s thoughts. Listen and learn how we can overcome unforgiveness and resentment through the life of Joseph.
Thanksgiving is a time for reflection that inspires gratitude and thankfulness, a time for us to remember as a family all that God has done in our lives. Thankfulness will help us focus our hearts on God and experience great joy, as we express gratitude, God gets the glory.
We must learn to trust God and his ways when we are hurting and in need of forgiveness. Listen in as we discover God’s plan for healing hearts.
God’s perfect plan for our lives can be discovered if we obey, trust, and except every season that comes our way. Listen in as we discover That God is with us and has a distinct plan for us.
We often underestimate the dangers of harboring envy jealousy in our hearts. Listen in as we learn how to recognize the sin of envy and learn from the life of Joseph.
Today’s family unit is being attacked like never before. Satan’s plan is always to kill, steal, and destroy. That is exactly why we need to protect our family at every cost. Listen in as we discover how to remove and avoid family disfunction with the help of God.
Today’s family unit is being attacked like never before. Satan’s plan is always to kill, steal, and destroy. That is exactly why we need to protect our family at every cost. Listen in as we discover how to remove and avoid family disfunction with the help of God.
Did you know that God did not design marriage to be between just a man and a woman? Listen in and discover 3 principles that every marriage can apply to help them experience a lifetime of joy, peace, and unity.
Faith is something that we all struggle with from time to time. Listen in and see how the bigger the test we experience the bigger the faith we find ourselves walking in.
Have you ever found yourself struggling or even falling into temptations with the same sins over and over again? Why is that? How can we overcome that one sin that keeps tripping us up? Join us as we learn from the life of Abraham and that habitual sin is never hidden from God.
God’s love is so patient, and He is willing to give all of mankind every opportunity to live and lead a life that is pleasant unto him. God doesn’t require a perfect life, but he does desire a persistent life of seeking him. Listen in as we discover God’s mercy and wrath.
God first makes himself known to us, and gives us faith to see Him, then takes us into His covenant. God calls for Abram to walk faithfully and blameless, with His covenant God will change Abram's name to Abraham . Walking before God is living in the knowledge that the eyes of God were always upon him. God calls for us to walk in the same humble, obedient manner today.
Waiting is one of the hardest things God will ask us to do. It stretches our patience and our faith. In this teaching we are going to learn that impatience leads us to take matters into our own hands. God doesn’t need us to help him deliver his promises He has made known to us to wait upon the Lord, not go before Him.
Many of us remember the popular 1993 move Groundhog Day. Bill Murphy repeated the same day over and over until he learned from his mistakes and changed. We all can relate to the theme behind this movie. As Christians, we sometimes make choices that lead us away from God only to find ourselves right back to the same place we left him. Listen in as we look at the life of Abraham and discover how to learn from our past mistakes and not repeat them.
God’s greatest desire for all believers is that we love Him. How we show our love is by obeying and trusting him completely. Listen in as we learn how Abraham discovers that partial obedience is still disobedience. Are we living our lives with complete obedience?
Have you ever made a decision that you regret? Do you struggle with the task of making right decisions for your life and knowing that your decision aligns you in the perfect will of God? Listen in as we look at how to hear from God, how to obey God, and how to remain in the will of God.
Have you ever wished you could do life over? Would you do anything different the second time around? Join us as we discover when God gives all of mankind a fresh new start he desires for us to faithfully walk in it.
When we think of the "great flood" that destroyed all of mankind except one family, we may struggle to rationalize why would God do such a thing. Listen in as we look at the true character of God and His plan of salvation from the beginning of time.
God's blessing to be fruitful and multiply soon became a curse, with the passing of time ungodly behavior, and sin increased. Now it has become clear that humanity was unwilling and unable to live out the responsibilities of stewardship of creation, causing God much sorrow.
There is a first time for everything in God's kingdom, and we will learn there are two paths to take in life. One path will separate us from God , and people. The other path will bring us to a life of prayer , service, and submission to the will of God, like Abel right with God.
There is a first time for everything in God's kingdom, it is important for us to remember God writes the story, and if we disregard God and try to do life on our own our story could end in tragedy. Sin will separate us from God and other, Jesus is our only hope of reconciliation.
In the life of every believer, we will at some point encounter opposition in our lives that come directly from Satan. How do we overcome deception, doubt, and lies that can hinder our joy, peace, and walk with Jesus? Listen in as we learn how to recognize the tactics of Satan.