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John Ettore
Guest Speaker Shayne Mims. God wants to do something in your life, right now in this moment. What are you willing to release to Him?
ve ever wrestled with shame, pride, doubt, or the fear that God is distant, this message will remind you that He still meets people, convicts hearts, and restores the broken.Scriptures referenced: James 2, Isaiah 6, Luke 7, Psalm 139, 1 Corinthians 15, John 21
s life. Listen/watch this message and see that understanding and walking in the Fear of the Lord will bring incredible blessings!
s life. Listen/watch this message and see that understanding and walking in the Fear of the Lord will bring incredible blessings!
s design is that what He pours into you over your lifetime will be passed to the nextgeneration. Watch/listen to this message to learn the keys to seeing this happen
built into our nature as beings who are aware of our separateness from God and from each other. Using Philippians 2:5-8 and John 13:1-17, the sermon makes the case that humility is not a personality trait but a deliberate choice, grounded in security that comes from relationship with God. The practical challenge given to listeners is to stop self-promoting, to embrace the identity of a servant, and to make receiving God's love a daily anchor.
t it? But if youunderstand what He is doing in the meantime it will help you work with Him rather than against Him.Listen/watch this message and learn three insights to what God is doing while you are waiting.
our reputation, our comfort, and maybe our very lives, so others can find Him through us.Listen/watch this message and learn one of the easiest ways to bring people to Jesus.John 1:35-46 NLT
if you trust Him for it. Listen/watch this message and let the truth of the restoration of God fill you with hope again!
God knows that joy is a critical component to have in your life to maintain your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. Listen/Watch this message and learn how you can increase joy in your life.
. But toexperience this life you must follow Him. Watch/listen to this message and learn what it means tofollow Jesus
m letting go of my life, my independence, my stubbornness and pride. I give you Lordship inmy life now. Lead me and I will follow no matter what it costs me because I trust you way is betterthan mine.
unless He knew that we would need hope in this life. Watch this message and see how the God of hope can bring a resurrection to any area of your life!
Listen/watch this stirring message on how to stay clear, courageous, and contagious asyou follow Jesus on the Narrow Road. Acts 4:39-31 NLT
Jesus plainly told us that following Him would not be easy, that it is a narrow and difficultroad. Watch/listen to this message and learn three things you can do to stay clear, courageous, andcontagious. 2 Peter 2:1-2 NLT; 1 Timothy 4:1-2 Amp; Proverbs 29:18 Amp
Jesus plainly told us that following Him would not be easy, that it is a narrow and difficultroad. Watch/listen to this message and learn three things you can do to stay clear, courageous, andcontagious.
Jesus plainly told us that following Him would not be easy, that it is a narrow and difficultroad. But He also promises that it will lead to life if we continue to follow Him. Listen/watch part two of this series and learn three things you must do to travel on the path that leads to life. Key Scriptures: Matthew 7:13; Jeremiah 14:14 NLT; 1 Peter 4:4-5 NLT
Jesus plainly told us that following Him would not be easy, that it is a narrow and difficult road. But He also promises that it will lead to life if we continue to follow Him. Listen/watch this introductory message and learn three things you must do to travel on the path that leads to life.Matthew 7
what you can be with God! He calls you to your destiny. - sees you as a person and not as a patient or a problem. - admits his mistakes and is vulnerable and transparent with those he leads. We tend to think that if we show our weaknesses to those we lead, they will disrespect us and our leadership. In fact, research has shown the opposite to be true. Followers have greater trust for those leaders who have been vulnerable and transparent with them. This does not mean that you should share all your weaknesses with all those you lead, but I have found it to be true that the more transparent I am, the more transparent- is a good listener.To listen is to love and to love is to listen.Listen for much more and how all of us are called to pastor one another.
wherever they went, and corporate prayer, not just personal prayer, was, and still is, the key to this effect. Listen/watch this message and you will be inspired to more prayer.Romans 1:9 NKJ; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJ; James 5:14-16 Amp
The way you start something, including your walk with God, can significantly influence how you finish. Watch/listen to this message and learn some very practical things you can do to get a smart start in the New Year!
2 Timothy 2:6-8 NKJIt is so tempting to quit at times. Life can be so hard and throwing in the towel can seem like the best decision. But when it comes to your walk with the Lord, it never is. Why? Because there is a great reward waiting for those who are faithful to the end. Listen/watch this message and beencouraged to finish your race strong!
This life is not all there is. In fact, the Bible tells us that for those who give their lives toChrist there is an inheritance waiting for you in heaven! Watch/listen to this message and learn whatthat inheritance is like.
t have rather than what you do have you will end up in a negative fearful place. But if you choose to fix your attention on what God has done you will have faith for any obstacle you face.
Pray Specifically: Be specific in prayer to engage your faith, exercise spiritual authority, and establish a baseline to measure God's activity.Are you ready to stop just "water skiing" in someone else's wake and step into the fullness of the power God has given you? We are praying for a fresh impartation of spiritual authority. Hit the 'Like' button if you are hungry for more of God's power in your life!HolySpirit #SpiritualGifts #ChristianLiving #Prayer #GiftOfHealing #DivineHealing #SpiritualAuthority #PrayerForHealing #Forgiveness
Pray Specifically: Be specific in prayer to engage your faith, exercise spiritual authority, and establish a baseline to measure God's activity.Are you ready to stop just "water skiing" in someone else's wake and step into the fullness of the power God has given you? We are praying for a fresh impartation of spiritual authority. Hit the 'Like' button if you are hungry for more of God's power in your life!
and develop confidence in your spiritual authority. Includes real-life healing testimonies and practical guidance for stepping out in faith.
- a non-profit organization helping children at risk around the world. Dennis has been featured on TBN, God TV, and XP Ministries with Patricia King.
t believe God still does miracles today. There is no Biblical basis for this worldview. In fact, not only does the Bible support miracles, but countless miracles are also still happeningtoday. Listen/watch this message and let your expectations for miracles rise!
YouTube Video DescriptionThe Gift of Miracles: Why God Doesn't Do More Miracles (And How We Can Partner With Him)Are you frustrated by the promise of miracles but not seeing enough of them? This powerful sermon tackles the controversial and polarizing topic of miracles with refreshing honesty and biblical depth.
The Gift of Tongues is one of the most powerful gifts God has given the Church. Utilizing this gift will help you tremendously in your Christian walk. Every believer who has been baptized in the Holy Spirit can speak in tongues. Listen/watch this message and learn 6 reasons to speak in other tongues.
Are you STUCK waiting for God's guidance? This could be your breakthrough.Most people think receiving a prophetic word is the hard part—it's not. The real challenge is knowing what it means and what to do with it. In this practical teaching, discover the 3 components of prophecy that everyone misses, why your bias is sabotaging God's direction, and the 7-step framework to finally get unstuck.
PROTECTING YOUR PROPHETIC WORD | How to Receive & Act on God's PromisesHave you ever received a prophetic word but weren't sure what to do with it? In this powerful message, Pastor Mark explores the biblical approach to receiving, testing, and protecting the prophetic words God gives us.Key Points Covered: ✅ The two biggest mistakes we make with prophetic words ✅ Why the Christian life is a "joint venture" with God✅ How to "test drive" a prophecy through small acts of obedience ✅ Overcoming skepticism while maintaining wisdom ✅ Why character development often precedes promise fulfillment ✅ Practical steps to protect your prophetic words from being stolenBased on 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21: "Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good."Whether you're new to prophetic ministry or have been walking in the gifts for years, this message will equip you with practical wisdom for stewarding the words God speaks over your life.
Are you curious about how God speaks to us prophetically today? In this video, I explain the 8 primary ways God communicates prophetically through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. You’ll discover how God may use prophecy, words of knowledge, dreams, visions, mental pictures, scripture, emotions, and inner impressions to reveal His heart.With real-life prophetic examples, you’ll learn how to recognize God’s voice, test what you hear, and grow in confidence as you walk in the prophetic gifts. Whether you’re new to hearing God’s voice or already moving in prophetic ministry, this teaching will give you clear, practical tools to strengthen your relationship with Him and serve others more effectively.This resource is perfect for Christians, pastors, leaders, coaches, counselors, and anyone longing to grow in spiritual discernment. God still speaks today—and He wants you to hear Him.How does prophecy work? What are the signs God is speaking? How do I grow in hearing God’s voice? —this video will guide you step by step.prophecy, prophetic gifts, how God speaks, hearing God’s voice, spiritual gifts, words of knowledge, dreams and visions, how to hear God, prophecy explained, prophetic ministry, Holy Spirit gifts, spiritual discernment, God still speaks, prophetic activation, supernatural lifestyle
Before Mark shares the message, John shares thoughts and prayers for our nation and Charlie Kirk's family.Mark teaches on the Revelatory Gifts of the Spirit. Are you seeking to hear God's voice more clearly? Can a single word from the Holy Spirit change your entire life?In this powerful message, Mark unpacks the revelatory gifts of the Holy Spirit—the word of knowledge, the word of wisdom, and prophecy. He shares his personal story of almost quitting the ministry before a simple word from God, delivered through unexpected means, completely changed his direction.You'll learn about the four levels of how a spiritual gift can be expressed in your life and discover how to be more open to God's supernatural guidance. This message will equip you to not only hear from God but to also step out in the spiritual gifts He has for you.#SpiritualGifts #HolySpirit #Prophecy #ChristianLiving #WordOfGod #TheGiftsOfTheHolySpirit
God is the God of Peace and He has come to give us His peace. Do you need more peace in your life? If so, listen to this message and learn four things you can do to experience the peace of God in your life.
Due to technical difficulties, the first portion of this message is pre-recorded, the final section is live.Self-control is inner strength supplied by God. Our behavior flows from our beliefs - and true self-control isn't about trying harder through willpower, but about connecting deeper to God's power and letting His Spirit transform us from within. "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7).
When you need restoration God will come When you need restoration God will come to you in gentleness. If you need hope after a significant loss or setback, listen/watch this message and find encouragement to move forward. to you in gentleness. If you need hope after a significant loss or setback, listen/watch this message and find encouragement to move forward.
God calls us to live a life of supernatural faithfulness. This one divine attribute will cause you to be more successful in life than any other attribute. Through it you will be a blessing to others and will glorify God.
God is good. Your circumstances may try to convince you otherwise, but the Bible is clear on this matter. The lie that God is not good will lead you away from God. But the restoration of the truth that God is good will draw you near. Listen/watch this message and have your faith restored in the goodness of God. James 1:17; Luke 10:25-37
Join Kyle Otto as he shares how The kindness of God is the fruit that leads people to restoration. He teaches through the book of Ruth and shows how the kindness of God through Ruth and Boaz brought restoration and how God's kindness through Jesus Christ redeemed us from death to life.God's kindness through us meets needs and restores lives to God as we abide in Christ, and are willing to meet needs in His way and timing. You will see the restoring power of Christ through the fruit of the Spirit in you.
Join us as Mark teaches that patience is developed through waiting, not despite it, using Hebrew word pictures to show how God "pierces us to fasten" us closer to Himself during delays and unanswered prayers. Rather than punishment, our waiting seasons are actually God's method of creating deeper intimacy with Him, turning our holy dissatisfaction into expectant hope and transforming us into more compassionate, peaceful people.
Joy is the automatic outcropping of experiencing love. And supernatural joy is the outcropping of experiencing the supernatural love of God. Listen/watch this message and learn the 5 ways you can experience the joy of God in your life.
The most important fruit of all the Fruit of the Spirit is love. This is because it is the revelation of the love of God for you that releases all the other supernatural fruit.
We love the gifts of the Spirit. They are so exciting and powerful, and effective. However, what is more important is the fruit of the Spirit – the supernatural character of Christ developed in you. Listen/watch this message and learn how Christ’s character can be developed in you. John 15:1-8
Because of our fallenness, we are prone to being judgmental, critical, and untrusting. Jesus, however, has called us to live a life of generosity and grace, just like He does. He gives us the choice. Luke 19:1-8 NKJ; Mark 10:17-31 NKJListen/watch this message and you will be inspired to live the generous life!
- Focus on how you have been forgiven. Luke 6:36 “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful”. We are to forgive others just the way God forgave us. What were you like when you came to God for forgiveness? You were at your worst! You did not deserve to be forgiven, yet He gave it to you. This realization helps us to release forgiveness. 2. Seek understanding. At the moment of releasing forgiveness Jesus said, “Father, forgive them , for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 3. Make a choice to open your heart to God’s forgiveness flowing through you. As a human you only have so much forgiveness within your human nature, but you are connected to an infinite supply of forgiveness which God will give you if you choose to let it flow to the person who hurt you. Ask Him to let His forgiveness flow through you. Pronounce it before God to the person. Try praying for them for blessings.4. Understand that forgiveness and restoration of the relationship are not the same thing. You must forgive but you are not required to return to an abusive relationship. Restoration of a relationship often depends on more than your forgiveness. It may depend on the other person, a. Admitting their sin and b. Changing their behavior. Even if they don’t, you still must forgive (for your own spiritual health).5. Understand that forgiveness and emotional healing are not the same thing. Forgiveness is a choice you make before God. Healing of your emotional wounds is a process you undertake with God. It often takes time. It is not an automatic result of forgiveness, although forgiveness is usually the first step. Satan goes to work on this point. When you still feel emotional pain after forgiving, he tells you, you failed to forgive properly. This leads to an unending chain of attempted forgiveness which just leads to shame and a false sense of failure. Recognize this lie and reject it. Take you pain to God and process it with Him. Perhaps find a good counselor. Remember forgiveness is a choice you make with God. You are not required to do it perpetually.
God is a generous Father. If you are a father, know that as you provide for your family, Father God is providing for you. It brings God great happiness to share His kingdom with His kids, just as it brings joy to an earthly father to share what he has with his kids. Listen/watch this message and learn how your Father in heaven wants show you His generosity.2 Samuel 6:12-23 NKJ; 2 Samuel 9:1-13 NIV; Romans 8:15-17 NKJ
Psalm 51:11-12 NKJ; Titus 3:6 NLT; Acts 2:16-18 AmpYou were created by God to be filled with His Spirit and to fulfill His purpose for your life through the generous outpouring of His Spirit. Listen/watch this message and ask God for a fresh outpouring in your life
God is a generous God, and He wants to bless you so that He can pour His generosity through you to the world. Watch this message and learn how God wants to bless you so thatyou can be a blessing.
Remembering God's faithfulness—one of our most powerful tools as believers—initiates 3 key shifts in perspective during trials. This not onlybuilds our faith to see God move in the present and future, but also instills greater confidence in His promises. 'For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.' 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV
How we can be sure Jesus is real and historical and is the Son of God Messiah that Christians believe he is If you are a follower of Christ, this will help you share with others who doubt or have questions as you tell people about Jesus, maybe a family member or friend, If you have ever been unsure if Jesus is real this morning, this is for you. We will start with what the Bible says about Jesus and focus on 5 areas of evidence for Christ and Christianity. We will finish by deciding how we are to respond.
There is ample evidence that the Bible can be trusted as the divine source of revelation.Listen to this message and learn how you can trust the Bible to be the true Word of God.
Intelligent design is the theory that life and the universe were created by an intelligent entity, rather than arising by chance or through undirected processes as per the theory of evolution. It suggests that certain features of the universe and living organisms are best explained by an intelligent cause/deity.Christianity, through the Bible, tells us that the created world reveals to us the nature/attributes of God the creator.“Since the world's creation, God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” Rom. 1:20 It is interesting that Paul includes the truth that humans are without excuse when they claim that God does not exist. The theory of evolution has been advanced as proof of God’s non-existence, which is then used as an excuse to live Godless lives. In other words, if God exists, humans must come to terms with His supreme position as the creator of all that exists. Further, He should be worshiped as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The theory of evolution is very handy for those of us who demand to live a life without concern for God’s will for us.
There are many good questions about Christianity that deserve good answers. Whether you are investigating Christianity or a believer who needs answers, watch this panel discussion.
Jesus came the first time to save the world. He is coming the second time to judge theworld. This is why He is calling and drawing people to Himself right now. The Bible says that today isthe day of salvation. Will you come to Him today?
There are many different kinds of baptisms in the Bible – not just water baptism. There are three in particular that every Christ-follower needs to experience to fully fulfill their divine assignment. Listen/watch this message to find out what they are and how to experience them. Galatians 3:27 NLT; Romans 6:4 NLT; Colossians 2:12 TLB; Acts 1:8 NLT
Repentance has received a bad rap over the years, but the truth is it is a gift from God. It is the only thing that will free you from your sins and bondage and enable you to live the life of freedom, joy, peace and power that God has for you. Listen/watch this message and be empowered to live the life God intends for you.
We find our rest in Jesus’ perfection. You don’t have to be perfect, Jesus is, and His perfection is accounted to you. Listen/watch this message and learn how Jesus’s perfection covers your imperfections!Hebrews 1:3 Amp; Colossians 2:9, 10 NLT; 1 Peter 2:21-22 NLT; Mark 10:45; 1 Peter 1:3-4
Many people do not know why they exist. The simple truth is – God created you to have a relationship with you. Listen/watch this message and learn how this relationship was ruined and how to get it back!
Summary: Your God-story, how you came to Jesus and what your life is like now, is more powerful than yourealize. Not only does it glorify God, and draw others to Jesus, but it also overcomes the enemy! Listen/watchthis message and get busy sharing your story!Key Scriptures: John 9:24-38 NKJ; Mark 5:1-20 NKJ; Revelation 12:10-11NKJ
Many believers don't know how to share their faith with others, or they are intimidated or overwhelmed even just thinking about it. In this opening message of our new series JUST 1, you will begin to gain the heart of Christ for the lost and learn how to simply and effectively share your faith.
Many followers of Jesus have a difficult time knowing what to share with someone who is far from God, or even how to share it. Listen/watch this message and catch the vision for sharing the Good News.Luke 7:34; John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:11-21
Renewing Your Mind – God’s Answer for AnxietyAs a sufferer of anxiety, I am very interested in how anxiety works. What is going on in my brain? Why does it take so little for me to have an anxiety reaction? Am I the only one living with this problem? How many of you deal with anxiety on a regular basis? How would it change your life if there was an easily available cure for anxiety, something you could do daily to rid yourself of anxiety?
God is our friend, but are we really His? What makes a true friendship? Are you showing God that you are His friend in the same way He is showing you that He is yours?
Jesus did not come only to rescue you from your sins by dying on the cross and rising from the dead – but He came to identify with you and help you daily, as a friend – and He has unlimited resources.
Many people have a distant relationship with God, including many church-going believers. But God wants more. He wants to develop a friendship with you. Watch/listen to this message and find out how.
Join us to hear a great encouraging message from our guest speaker, Dan Hitzhusen. Dan’s calling from the time he was 21 has been to unite the Body of Christ to fulfill the Great Commission. Dan has been focusing on mobilizing and equipping believers to work together, making disciples of all nations through the planting of new churches. He currently serves with the 24:14 Network and Big Life Ministries, both of which seek to catalyze church planting movements among unreached people. Dan is married to Lorie, and together they have three children and seven grandchildren. They reside in Salt Lake City, UT.
What do you treasure in 2025? In this week's message, Kyle looks at what the Bible says about pursuing the Kingdom of God as a treasure. From Exodus and 1 Samuel and Matthew, we will discover how to use the things we treasure to honor the King and partner with him to build his kingdom and invite intimacy with God through the pursuit of holiness.
Ps 131 My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me.2 But I have stilled (Greek word meaning to adjust, to yield, to compose) and quietened (Greek word same as in Ps 37 – to be silent, to tarry, to wait, to rest) my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. Here it is the heart which is silent and still – at rest with God like a child in its mother’s arms.The stillness of heart is letting go of all your pride, roles, jobs, expectations, and self-worth and being a child His arms. It is tied to physical stillness and silence.Why is the stillness of the heart so important? The word for “know” in Ps 46:10 means to recognize, to be acquainted with a familiar friend. It refers to a relationship. The route to knowing God is resting prayer and the route of resting prayers runs from activity to inactivity to abiding. In this still place, it is easier to perceive God’s thoughts.
A new year is a chance to break bad habits, establish good ones, and believe for God to move in even greater ways—answered prayers, breakthroughs, provision, and blessings to be a blessing to others. While seeking the Holy Spirit’s direction, one phrase stood out to me: “PREPARE THE WAY.” It stirred excitement in my spirit, confirming what I believe God is about to do in 2025—a year of OUTPOURING and an increased awareness of His presence.
There is no other name on earth greater than the name of Jesus. Listen/watch thisspecial Christmas message and be see how profoundly Jesus has changed the entire world. Matthew 1:18-25 NLT
Experiencing God’s goodness and mercy is a critical counterbalance to all the pain and suffering life throws at you. Listen/watch this message and learn how His goodness and mercy can follow you all the days of your life. Psalm 23:6; Exodus 33:18-19; Deuteronomy 8:2
No matter the trial or difficult the circumstance; even when surrounded by enemies, God prepares the table of restoration, and can turn what the enemy meant for evil into good.
If you have been waiting a long time to see His faithfulness to you, stay faithful where He has you until He moves you on. Watch for God to be faithful to you and praise Him with your faithfulness to Him. God’s faithfulness goes beyond the season you are in, and He is faithful even when we are not – He is worthy of our trust.
When you go through dark valleys in your life, it can be lonely and cold. You can feel like no one is there or that no one cares. But the Lord does. He is your Good Shepherd. He is with you and will see you through. Listen/watch this message and find comfort and hope in your darkest hour.
So often we want to do the Lord’s will in a situation, but we don’t know what that is. The Bible isn’t explicit on every decision we must make throughout the day, so what can we do then? Listen/watch this message and find out!
Life presents us with some very difficult decisions at times. And often we don't know what to do or which way to go. But Psalm 23 promises us that our Shepherd will guide us through life's challenges. Listen/watch this message and be encouraged that Jesus will guide you!
Your soul is the most valuable thing you possess. Jesus said, “And what do you benefit if you gainthe whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Listen/watch this continued message and learn how to live with a healthy soul.
Your soul is the most valuable thing you possess. Jesus said, “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Listen/watch this message and learn how to live with a healthy soul.
There are times in your life when you will, either through other peoples’ actions, or your own, end up far from Jesus, hurting and lost. But Jesus sees you, loves you, and is coming to rescue you. Will you let Him? Listen/watch this message and discover how Jesus truly leaves the ninety-nine to find the one – you!
Following closely behind Jesus is the key to finding peace, provision, and protection in your life. But to follow Him you must trust Him and learn to recognize His voice. Listen/watch this message and learn why you can trust Jesus and discern His voice in your life.
Jesus chooses to call Himself your Shepherd, and you His sheep. This relationship is one of the most tender relationships known. Listen/watch this message and learn how Jesus wants to lead and guide you through life, and how you can come to fully trust Him
We are in a series called RESET – and perhaps some of your relationships could use a RESET? Today, we are going to look at one word in the Bible. It's a word about relationships, often translated fellowship Bibleinfo.com says “Koinonia comes from a root word meaning “partner” or “companion” and is expressed in sharing—sharing possessions, sharing experiences, sharing life, and sharing ourselves with one another.” What makes Koinonia possible? It makes sense for firefighters and people with a common passion to fight for one another, to stand together. We all have it in us for a temporary situation. But what about those people that frustrate us? Those relationships that may need a reset? What makes it possible to have deep fellowship with those who are not like us? To honor and fight for those we find it hard to get along with? The key is to understand that koinonia is a spiritual reality. It's something God did for us that we can participate in. There’s a great illustration I heard from Martin Cachero at Risen Church of the Solar System. Our solar system works because all the planets orbit around the sun, the magnetic pull of the sun protects them and helps things grow. When we forget that we're in Christ - we try to be the center and have people, circumstances and even God orbit it. Think about it. A planet that decides what's best for itself would create chaos and disaster. But frankly, that's what we see all around us, even in the church when we make ourselves the judge of what will help us and protect us. We start being a planet that has its own orbit, and it's chaos. Only God deserves to be in that center – not our ego. When we remember He is the center – everything changes. In Christ, We're the only people in the world that can have unity because we're connected to one head. It's a spiritual reality that is lived out in our fellowship. Jesus is the center. Eph 4:3 we are to maintain this – not create it. The best way to walk in this reality is to meditate on what God has done for us. As that grows in our minds and hearts, we walk out the spiritual reality of being in His orbit, He is the center from which all life and flows. Meditate on Ephesians 3:18-19 May have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.How Wide: God's love is limitless, encompassing all creation (Ephesians 3:18-19, Psalm 103:11-12, John 3:16).How Long: God's love is eternal, lasting from generation to generation (Jeremiah 31:3, Psalm 103:17, 1 Chron 16:34).How High: God's love surpasses the heavens, unreachable by human understanding (Ps 103:11, Is 55:9, Rom 8:38-).How Deep: God's love reaches into the depths of despair, sin, and death to rescue and restore (Psalm 86:13, Micah 7:19, Ephesians 3:18-19).
When you have been praying for something for a very long time and see nochange, or if what you prayed for did not end up happening, what do you do next? Jesussays to keep on praying. Why? What/listen to this message and find out!
Luke 10:1-18 NLTSummary: Maybe you’ve given up and thrown in the towel. Don’t, because God wants to do a new thing in your life! But this may mean you have to RESET some areas of your life so He can do that new thing. It could be in your marriage, finances, your relationship with your kids, your physical health – or it could be in your relationship with God Himself. Listen/watch this message and learn how to make the RESET you need to see God do something new.
We all need a reset in certain areas of our lives from time to time. It could be in your marriage, finances, your relationship with your kids, your physical health – or it could be in your relationship with God. Listen/watch this message and learn how you can effectively reset your relationship with Christ.
So often we hear the story of the Prodigal Son as being about the son, but it’s really about the Prodigal Father. That is, His unconditional love and grace that He lavishes on both sons. Listen to this message and learn about God’s forever grace for you.
We all have been given special gifts, talents, and abilities to glorify God and one Day we will be rewarded for how we used them. Listen/watch this sermon and get motivated to use your gifts for God! 2 Timothy 2:1-7 NLT
We all have been given special gifts, talents, and abilities to glorify God and to be a blessing to those around us. Listen/watch this sermon and begin living with the divine purpose God created you for. Romans 12:3-6a NKJ
So often we are looking for God to do something around us, but often God is doing something much deeper within us. Listen/watch this message and recognize the beautiful work God is doing in you.
A recent survey of Christian university students revealed that approx. 75% of them abandon their Christian faith before they graduate. There are many reasons for this. Today we will look at one of the main ones. Skeptics tell us that the Bible is untrustworthy because it deals with history from several thousand years ago which, given human frailty, could not have been properly recorded or translated over those thousands of years. They say that it fails as a historical document. Let’s look at the integrity of the Bible.
One of the primary ways God gets His grace over to you is through those around you. Toexperience God’s grace; you must recognize where it’s coming from.
1 Corinthians 15:10 NKJ; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 NKJGod wants to release His grace in you and through you to give you strength to be an overcomer in your trial. Listen/watch this message and learn what grace is and how to activate it!
Life can be hard, but God's grace is stronger than any trial you are facing. Listen/watch this message and learn how to access the amazing grace of God!
In THE BLESSING by Gary Smalley and John Trent they give the 5 components of the blessing that children need from their fathers. They are: 1. Meaningful Touch “Touch is central to human social life. It is the most developed sensory modality at birth, and it contributes to cognitive, brain, and socioemotional development throughout infancy and childhood.” Field, 2001; Hertenstein. Human touch reduces the stress hormone cortisol. In other words, it imparts peace. 2. A Spoken Word “Research shows that how and how much a parent talks and interacts with their child has a big impact on the child’s success in school and life. Children aren’t born smart; they’re made smart by their parents talking and interacting with them.” This does not just apply to early childhood; it applies throughout our lives. 3. Attaching “high value” to the ChildHow do we attach high value to a person? • Be a good listener. Give them your full attention.• Offer perspectives that address their present issues• Be kind and generous with your time and attention• Recognize their best qualities and affirm them and draw them out• Affirm their character and their talents4 Picturing a Specific Future for the Child This can either focus on some talent or aptitude that the father sees in the child, or it may be an actual job or calling. Care must be taken here because not every dream a father has for his child is God’s choice. This is where prayer and hearing God’s voice is essential. 5 Making an active commitment to fulfilling the Dream Some of you might be saying this just sounds like child psychology. Does this have anything to do with God and the Bible? “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Mat. 3:16-17If Jesus needed this blessing (which He did) how much more do you need it? Here is the great news, we can release the Father’s Blessing not only to our natural children, but to our spiritual children as well. Not only that but we can also release the Father’s blessing to our brothers and sisters in Jesus!
In THE BLESSING by Gary Smalley and John Trent they give the 5 components of the blessing that children need from their fathers. They are: 1. Meaningful Touch “Touch is central to human social life. It is the most developed sensory modality at birth, and it contributes to cognitive, brain, and socioemotional development throughout infancy and childhood.” Field, 2001; Hertenstein. Human touch reduces the stress hormone cortisol. In other words, it imparts peace. 2. A Spoken Word “Research shows that how and how much a parent talks and interacts with their child has a big impact on the child’s success in school and life. Children aren’t born smart; they’re made smart by their parents talking and interacting with them.” This does not just apply to early childhood; it applies throughout our lives. 3. Attaching “high value” to the ChildHow do we attach high value to a person? • Be a good listener. Give them your full attention.• Offer perspectives that address their present issues• Be kind and generous with your time and attention• Recognize their best qualities and affirm them and draw them out• Affirm their character and their talents4 Picturing a Specific Future for the Child This can either focus on some talent or aptitude that the father sees in the child, or it may be an actual job or calling. Care must be taken here because not every dream a father has for his child is God’s choice. This is where prayer and hearing God’s voice is essential. 5 Making an active commitment to fulfilling the Dream Some of you might be saying this just sounds like child psychology. Does this have anything to do with God and the Bible? “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Mat. 3:16-17If Jesus needed this blessing (which He did) how much more do you need it? Here is the great news, we can release the Father’s Blessing not only to our natural children, but to our spiritual children as well. Not only that but we can also release the Father’s blessing to our brothers and sisters in Jesus!
uthenticity helps us discover what is going on inside. Where am I on the self-reliant or shame scale?Matthew 12:34 For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Our inner parts/ inner beliefs determine our behaviors, and emotions. It’s why we do what we do.Psalm 51:6 Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, – God cares about our inward partsWe keep trying to change our behavior and our emotions – but both of those are a result of what we believe inside – MOST of the time we are not awareWe bring everything into His light - what we think is “good” and - what we think is “not good.”Then we let God show us what is true. Psalm 51:6 And in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom. So what is truth? In Christ, we have been given new hearts (Ezekiel 36:26-27) and are new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). It’s in God’s truth, His light, we see self-reliance and shame are BOTH focused on self!2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 – Where I the storyline? New Covenant. Things are not just promised – but fulfilled and given.2 – Original audience? What it meant to the people at the time it was written- someone pointed out that the original audience had the advantage of the original language 1. The word ADD can trip us up because we feel like there is something we need to create or increase. It can lead to feeling we need to get busy, try harder and get better at all these qualities …2. Scholars agree that the word translated ADD – is misleading 1. NASB more accurate - 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith minister moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge... Greek word is used epichorégeó (ep-ee-khor-ayg-eh'-o) – meaning what is supplied - it was a classical Greek term used for performances, It’s like bringing all the actors out on the stage for the final bow. You are not adding or creating – but acknowledging and accepting. You are believing what has been given to you.3. There is a huge gap between being diligent to embrace what God has given us and feeling we have to add something of our own creation. The key is in the Supplier. Our faith in what He has supplied is to increase and as a result: goodness, knowledge, self-control etc. grow. 2 Peter 1:9 But the verse goes on - SOLUTION 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. – This is the solution – when we feel those qualities are not evident in our lives – we turn our focus back to Him -the Supplier with thanksgiving and praise.that is how these qualities become visible. These verses are descriptive – who we are – not just what we do.3) Is this consistent? And the discussion took off in high gear with questions, confessions, doubts… This is the second way God helps us see our inner thoughts and beliefs – through discussion – we start to see clearer• one person said: Gal 5:22-23 gives the same qualities, kindness, faithfulness, self-control - they are FRUIT of Holy Spirit – not fruit of us.• “I’ve been trying to use my willpower to grow those qualities …”• Another person said, “me too, but then we are still focused on ourselves.” • We try to create something we weren’t meant to create. • When we see a godly life primarily as moral behavior, we may not recognize how much we need grace because we are doing okay checking off the boxes!• And the other extreme - we may not recognize how the enemy lulls us into comparison – they are both as bad - pride or shame it’s all focused on SELF Philippians 3:3 Put no confidence in the flesh it's more than our salvation. Col 2:6 – just as you received - continuing a lot so then just as you continued to receive.Until we see God as our Source -- we reduce Him to a little above a coach. I need to love more, and then we tack on “with God’s help.”Many people in the group asked for prayer to stop striving and to stop judging themselves and others.
Hebrews 9: The once and for all sacrifice of the blood of Jesus restores the believers their innocence and gives them access to an all loving Father, every minute of every day, now and forever
Hebrews 9: The once and for all sacrifice of the blood of Jesus restores the believers their innocence and gives them access to an all loving Father, every minute of every day, now and forever
Consciously or unconsciously, we are all busy defining a version of our “self” which we project to those around us. It is our projection of the person we wish we were - it is our “image.” I call it my Photo Shopped self. Usually, our image is a composite of all our successes. We define our “selves” as the total of all our accomplishments, talents, and spiritual gifts, etc. But this image is incomplete and as such, inauthentic. Rarely, if ever, do we include our failures or our flaws, unless we speak of them in the past tense as something we have overcome [which is really just another success.] This false projection has two unintended consequences. The first is that it prevents genuine Christian fellowship because it is only half true – I am not bringing all of myself to my relationships, which means that I cannot be fully known. The irony is that the parts of me which need fellowship the most, the deep insecurities and fears, are never reached. The second is that I fail to grow into my God-ordained influence because I am inauthentic. And there is an irony here as well. The very weakness that we try to hide is what brings us greater influence.In writing about the relationship between authenticity and influence, T.J. Addington put it this way, “People of deep influence don’t hide who they are or the struggles they have. In fact, it is precisely because they are honest about their struggles that we can identify with them; it is their commitment to live with authenticity that draws us to them”When we are authentic, we share a fellowship unlike anything the world can offer. It might be counterintuitive, but authenticity is winsome. It draws people to you because everyone wants to feel understood and safe with someone who really “gets” them, and the quickest way to that trust is to let them “get” you.
DIVINE DESIGN FOR WOMEN Gen 2:18 The LORD God also said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper.” We translate suitable helper from the Hebrew words Ezer Kenedgo The word ezer is used 21 times in the Old Testament, 16 times God uses it to describe Himself. Other times it is used to describe military help, such as reinforcements without which a battle would be lost.” There are other Hebrew words that could have been used to describe the concept of a helper, but the one God chose is a helper like Himself. Women are not merely assistants but empowered partners who contribute uniquely to relationships and communities.WE NEED TO KNOW THIS - WE ARE VESSELS OF GOD'S STRENGTH TO FULFILL THE ROLE GOD WORKS THROUGH USHOW GOD STRENGTHENS US 1. He uses our weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12:9 2. He helps the needy; stay needy. Jeremiah 13:11, Psalm 121 3. He can use the truth and authenticity of others to strengthen us. Ephesians 4:15
GPC is pleased to welcome Mario Hernandez to speak today. Mario and Esther are long-time friends of GPC, powerful pastors and church planters in Mexico, and one of the missionary families we support.
The fact is that God made us for Heaven, where all of these things will be perfect and forever. All of our human desires come from a desire for heaven. And Jesus encouraged this desire when He taught us to pray, “your kingdom come; your will be done; on earth as it is in Heaven.” Our actions are focused on bringing Heaven to Earth. We strive for all these good things, beauty, justice, faithful relationships, healing, deliverance, belonging, etc. The problem is that we are not accomplishing heaven on earth. Heaven on Earth is being sabotaged by our human nature, our own and that of all those who do not follow God. This means that we experience moments of Heaven on Earth. These are “down payments” of Heaven on Earth. They are like Costco samples designed to stimulate our hunger for the full meal, which only comes in Heaven. This leads to frustration and disappointment with God, with ourselves, and with others. The problem is that we have somehow come to believe that we can transform this world into Heaven on Earth, that we can turn the sample into the full meal. For some Christians, Heaven of Earth is something we believe we can demand of God, something we have a right to, something we deserve. Sort of like the American Dream. This can lead to frustration, dissatisfaction, and disillusionment. The fact is that God calls us to work for instalments of Heaven on Earth, but it will not come in fullness until Jesus returns. We are living in a between time, which is difficult to accept, and we are tempted to lose our joy because of it.Fortunately, Paul addresses the solution to this problem near the end of Chapter 3 and in Chapter 4 where he contrasts non-Christians with Christians, saying “Their mind is on earthly things, but our citizenship is in Heaven.” Phil. 3:19-20What does Paul mean when he tells us that our citizenship is in Heaven? The experience that makes this idea real to me is traveling in a foreign country, with a language I don’t speak, and a culture I don’t really understand. It may be very beautiful, but I know I don’t really belong there. I am just passing through on my way home. Paul is telling us that no matter how much of heaven on earth we experience, we are still just passing through and although we experience small deposits of heaven on earth, we will never be fully satisfied until we get to heaven. He is telling us that our joy should never be proportional to our present experience of “heaven on earth”. Also, he is telling us that when we are not experiencing heaven on earth, we do not need to be frustrated or unhappy. We can be happy here and now, even with a limited experience of Heaven on Earth.Fortunately, he shares his secret source of happiness with us. “… I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Phil. 4:11-13Here is Paul’s secret formula for peace and contentment, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Phil. 4:4-7 The key phrase is “in the Lord”. Our joy, peace, contentment, and hope are to be in nothing more or less than our relationship with Jesus. He is our hope, He is our joy, He is our peace! Heaven on Earth is only “heaven” if He is here. No circumstance can take you from Him if you have made Him your reason for happiness. There is no circumstance that can take your joy from you if you have made Him your source of joy.Paul summed it up when he said, “I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings.” Phil. 3:10Seek after Jesus, make Him your reason for joy. Spend time getting to know Him.
We can spend our lives and relationship with God by our successes and failures, or we can define our lives and relationship with God on who we are in Christ, and what He has done. Philippians 3: 1-3; 7-9; 13-15 NLT
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Phil. 2:5-8The two keys to humility in Jesus’ example are:1. He took the very nature of a servant. Serving others is the antidote to our prideful human nature. Nothing humbles our pride like serving those we consider ourselves superior to. Serving others should be a daily goal.2. He humbled himself. His Father did not force him to choose humility, he humbled himself. Humility is a choice we can make. Every day there are countless opportunities to choose humility. None of them are pleasant! All of them purify our character. All of them attract the blessings and exaltation of our Father God.“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” James 4:6“Humble yourself before the Lord, and He will lift you up” James 4:10
Some don’t believe in heaven. Yet Jesus, Paul, and Peter all say it is a real place. And Jesus’ resurrection paves the way for us to go there. Listen/watch this message and gain the hope of heaven!Romans 1:1-4 NLT; 1 Peter 1:3-7 NLT; Hebrews 2:14-15 NLT; Philippians 3:13-15 NIV; Revelation 21:1-7, 22-27 NLT
We find Paul in prison waiting to learn whether he will live or die. His circumstances are dire. Here is his explanation of his circumstances.“ Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has served to advance the gospel.” Phil.1:12 In this sentence we see Paul’ entire purpose for living, preaching the good news about Jesus. Notice how he is interpreting his present dire circumstances through the lens of his purpose. He is not interpreting his purpose through the lens of his circumstances e.g. “If only I weren’t in prison, I would be accomplishing so much more preaching!”“As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” Phil. 13-14 Rather than focusing on the loss of his platform for preaching, he focuses on the effect on his Christian brothers and sisters of his stand for the gospel in prison. Paul is not living for “his ministry” he is living for the ministry of spreading the good news about Jesus. His purpose is not his ministry, it is the ministry.“It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.” Phil. 1:15-17 Notice that Paul is not trying to ignore the trouble that he is in or the effect it has had on his ministry. He acknowledges that there are preachers of Jesus trying to take advantage of his trouble to advance their own selfish, insincere ministries. The fact is, they are taking advantage of his troubles. What they are doing is ungodly and unrighteous! How would you feel in Paul’s circumstances?How Paul reacts is not how I would react. I would be writing letters to all “my churches” commanding them to throw the bums out! I would be pleading my case! Shoring up “my ministry” and trying to protect “my leadership” for later when I am set free. Paul doesn’t worry about “his ministry” because his purpose is the spread of the gospel, not on his personal fulfillment as a preacher. He is not about his career.“But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” Phil. 1:18By focusing on his purpose (the gospel being preached) Paul can now say one of the most powerful and helpful phrases in the English language, “So What!” “What does it matter?” All that matters to Paul is that his purpose is accomplished one way or another.And this brings us to the relationship between purpose and happiness, “And because of this I rejoice.” Happiness is the by-product of Godly Purpose.Questions:1. Do you have a purpose that is bigger than your happiness or pleasure?2. Do you need a new purpose?3. If so, where will you find it?
The key to Paul's ability to endure and minister through hardship, is the same key that enabled the Philippian church to be a strength and encouragement to him. The key is LOVE. Paul demonstrated the Love of Christ in his life and ministry, and love was the foundation to grace and abounding love.Philippians 1:7-9WHAT'S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?This month has already been so impactful as we have been going through the book of Philippians, and we aren't even through chapter 1 yet!Pastor Mark taught us several weeks ago on the power of thankfulness through the trials of life, and how when we are thankful through (not necessarily for...), we can experience the Joy of the Lord.A couple weeks ago, we looked at Trusting the Process by keeping the BIG PICTURE in mind, understanding that God's good work in us takes time, and trusting in God's timing allows us to grow in faith and character so we can walk out His WILL in our lives with greater victory. Last week Pastor John gave a powerful word on STRONG CHURCH, and how important it is for us to be in the the church body, because we all have gifts from the Holy Spirit which are meant to edify and strengthen. We can't be a strong church without each other. (It was so good to see him in the house.)This week we are looking at the next section in Philippians where Paul expresses his genuine love for the Philippian church, and reasons why. The key to Paul's ability to endure and minister through hardship, is the same key that enabled the Philippian church to be a STRONG CHURCH, and be an encouragement to Paul and each other. The key is LOVE.
The powers of Hell cannot stop the Church when she is operating the way Jesus intended it to. Watch/listen to this message and see what that looks like and where you fit in!
Phil 1:6 ;And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.What is the Good Work? It is not only the moment of salvation when we became newcreations in Christ, but it is the life-long transformative power of the Spirit working in usto: To make us more like Christ, and to be His ambassadors on the Earth andaccomplish the Great Commission to CHANGE LIVES - Including our own!Q: What would happen in your walk with God, and in your life if you lived with theBIG PICTURE in mind? Q: How would you approach your relationship, and every otherarea in your life if you give yourself grace, and understand thatGROWTH TAKES TIME? Q; How would your life be different or better, if you learned to Trust the Process ofGODS TIMING?
In Philippians, his reason for being thankful for them involves their commitment to partnering with him in spreading the good news of Jesus. In the other letters he is thankful for their commitment to their faith in Jesus, their good works, and their love for one another.It would be easy to say that Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippian church is because they are “coworkers” in a noble cause (esprit de corps) . Although this is true, Paul’s thanks for the Philippians goes much deeper than that. His love and thanks for the Philippians goes to the root of his understanding of the spiritual connection he has with all of his Christian brothers and sisters.
The Philippian church is born of supernatural power and suffering. These two go together naturally. For Paul. Perhaps more confusing is this, there are three things, evidence in Paul's life that we rarely put together.Supernatural, power, suffering and joy. How does this work? How can you find joy in the middle of suffering? The book of Philippians is the answer to that question. We'll go through this book and we will see four or five, I can't remember exactly how many now, but four or five ways, practices and ways of thinking that Paul displayed and talked about in that book.And as we see that, we see the keys to finding joy in the middle of suffering. And that will transform our lives.
Quote from A.W. Tozer: That Incredible ChristianThe Christian believes that in Christ he has died, yet he is more alive than before and he fully expects to live forever.He walks on earth while seated in heaven and though born on earth he finds that after his conversion he is not at home here. He loses his life to save it and is in danger of losing it if he attempts to preserve it.He goes down to get up. If he refuses to go down he is already down, but when he starts down he is on his way up. He is strongest when he is weakest and weakest when he is strong. Though poor he has the power to make others richHe has most after he has given most away. He sometimes does most by doing nothing and goes furthest when standing still. In heaviness he manages to rejoice and keeps his heart glad even in sorrow. He believes that he is saved now, nevertheless he expects to be saved later and looks forward joyfully to future salvation. He fears God but is not afraid of Him. In God’s presence he feels overwhelmed and undone, yet there is nowhere he would rather be than in that presence.2 Cor. 6:8-10: through honor and dishonor, through slander and praise. We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as punished, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.-7:4-I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy. 2 Corinthians: 1-3: Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, & our brother Timothy. To thechurch of God which is at Corinth with all the saints who are throughout Achaia (2)Grace to you and peacefrom God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (3)Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, (4)who comforts us in all our affliction-vs. 4- who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any afflictionwith the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.-vs. 5-For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant throughChrist.-vs. 6-But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; -vs. 7-and our hope for you is firmly grounded, knowing that as you are partners in our sufferings, so also you are in our comfort.
Dennis Reanier is an apostolic leader with a prophetic voice to empower this generation to release the creativity of the Kingdom of God with-in them. As the founder of the Apostolic Resource Center, Revival Cry Ministries, and LOFT, Dennis continues to activate countless people internationally through impartation to stir revival, reformation, and revolution in preparation of the emerging agenda of the end time harvest. He is the co-founder of “Be A Hero, USA” – a non-profit organization for helping children at risk around the world. Dennis authored the sought after book Shaking Heaven and Earth. He has appeared on TBN and has a key role in the film Angel Stories by Jonathan Nixon. He has also been featured on God TV and XP Ministries with Patricia King. Dennis received a B.A. in Sociology from Seattle Pacific University and a M.A. in Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. Dennis and his wife, Tammi reside in Bozeman, Montana with their four daughters Jordan, Raegan, Naomi, and Josie.
The Apostle Paul uses two metaphors to describe the Church:A Family: “… let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Gal. 6:10An Army: “Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs – he wants to please his commanding officer.” 2 Tim 2:3-4
If you make God your firm foundation, He will make you strong and stable inany storm. Watch/listen to this message and find out how.
God is always doing a new thing, especially at the turn of each year. He is a God of days, weeks, seasons, and years. But to move with God you must do these three things. Key Scriptures: Philippians 3:13-14; Hebrews 12:1-2; Isaiah 43:18-19; Deuteronomy 31:8; Psalm 16:8
God has the ultimate Search And Rescue team as He tries to save the human race. John 3:16-17 NCV; 2 Peter 3:7 CEV; 2 Corinthians 5:19 CEV
So often we only see people based on their behavior. But God’s love sees beyond. He sees beyond your behavior to who He originally intended you to be, and who He is committed to helping you become.Scripture: Luke 5:27-32 NLT; Luke 19:9-10 NLT; Isiah 46:9-10 NKJ; 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 NLT
Jesus is not only the example of God’s love to us, but the expression of God’s love through us. God is love. He wants us to know and show His love to a lost and dying world. Key Scripture: Matthew 5:43-48 NCV; Philippians 2:1-12 NLT;
Summary: Love is not known until it is shown. Just as Jesus sacrificed for us, He calls us to sacrifice for one another. This is the key to all successful relationships. Philippians 2:1-12 Amp
We think we know ourselves, yet God is the one that created us, and knows what we need more than we do. We might try many things to address our deepest need, but God only knows our deepest need. We must be completely available for God to reveal what ultimately need. Main Scripture: Matthew 6:7-8 NIV “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”Theme:
So often we try to ignore our pain and suffering in life and just power through. But God has given us a pathway that can take us from pain to praise. Listen/watch this message and learn the pathway to praise.
When we choose to live grateful lives, it lifts our eyesight from the brokenness all around us, makes us more God-aware, we gain God’s perspective, and we have more God-faith to face life with. Watch/listen to this message and learn how to lift your eyes to God.
Being negative is easy, and natural for all of us. But choosing gratefulness can literally change your life. The Bible instructs us, and science confirms, that living grateful lives has profound benefits. Listen/watch this message and learn how to live a more grateful life.
So many believers are afraid of the devil. But the Bible teaches us that our authority in Christ actually makes the devil afraid of us! Watch/listen to this message and find the courage to use your spiritual authority.
So many believers cower in God’s presence. But Jesus has paved the way for us to boldly come before God. Listen/watch this message and learn how to relate to God with confidence!Key Scriptures: Hebrews 4:16; 10:19-22; Ephesians 1:18-22
We all need encouragement, and we all need to encourage others. Listen/watch this message and learn 5 ways you can en-courage others.
HONEST WITH MYSELF – Why is it hard to be honest with yourself about your negative thoughts and actions? Shame, Discouragement, Self-hate, and having to change. HONEST WITH GOD – Why is it hard to be honest with God? Fear of judgment, being rejected by Him, feeling Shame, fear of not being able to change. HONEST WITH OTHERS – fear of rejection. How many of you think something like this, “If I told people the truth about the negative things I am thinking, feeling, and doing, they would reject me!”
Miracles happen when you obey God. But it takes courage to obey God. Watch/listen to this message and find the courage to obey!
It takes courage to be Christian in our culture – but don’t fear, God will give you His courage. Acts chapter 4:1-31 NLT; Matthew 10:16-20 NLT
Life is hard and there will be times when you will need exceptional courage - courage beyond your own. Listen/watch this message and learn how you can find courage to face any obstacle in life.Key Scripture: Acts chapter 4 NLT; John 16:33 NLT
Do you want to walk powerfully with God? If so, you will need to follow Jesus’ example of being, “All-in”. Jesus was “all-in”. This was the key to His success. It is the key to yours as well. Key Scriptures: John 5:16-20 NKJ
Elijah was a powerful prophet of the Old Testament who accomplished mighty things for God. However in-spite of these accomplishments, he faced burnout and intimidation - even running for his life and asking God to take it. But God refreshed him and restored him back with a new assignment. Join Pastor John and Josh as they jump into the word together
Gary Mancini shares this morning. His daughter Kiersten Clegg shares before Gary speaks. What a treat for the GPC family.
Seeing our sin [what we are by nature – rebellious and self-willed] is a work of God. This means that it is dangerous to go hunting for our sin. The Devil brings condemnation regarding our sin. The Holy Spirit brings conviction. The difference is between hopelessness and despair on the one hand and joyous freedom and appreciation for God’s love and forgiveness on the other. Repentance brings joy.
The repentance necessary to enter into God’s world is not merely remorse over bad actions, it is much deeper. The changed thinking that Jesus is calling for is a change from seeing sin as behavioral to seeing it as a relational problem between oneself and God. Sin is independence from our Creator.
Key passages: Matthew 4:17, 2 Cor. 7:10, Jeremiah 17:9
What expectations (of yourself or others) are you trying to fill your clay pots with when He has something better for you?
Lord, Expose our dead ritualistic purification rules and expectations and transform us into something alive. An extravagant, celebratory, people helping loving and affirming God. A God who is fearless about giving this new wine to people. A God who risks with people, who loves to be with them, who enters into life with them, who is among them.
John 2:1-11
Sometimes being led by the Spirit takes us beyond our comfort zones. But if we walk in obedience, and believe we are who God says we are; we can stand firm in the trials, come out of the desert in the power of the Spirit, and do what we have been called to do.
ROMANS 8:14 NLT “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God”
Seeing God: When God enables us by His Spirit to apprehend with the eyes of our heart His character, His ways and His presence as revealed in His Word.
-Eph. 1:15-18a-For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints -vs. 16-do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; -vs. 17-that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of a revelation in the knowledge of Him. -vs. 18-I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened…
Seeing God: When God enables us by His Spirit to apprehend with the eyes of our heart His character, His ways and His presence as revealed in His Word.
-Eph. 1:15-18a-For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints -vs. 16-do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; -vs. 17-that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of a revelation in the knowledge of Him. -vs. 18-I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened…
Have you been blessed by the Father's voice into adulthood? Have you heard him tell you, “You are my son or daughter whom I love, with you I am well pleased”? Are you still trying to receive the approval of your mother or father which they have not given? Self-worth ultimately comes because we have heard the author of all Fatherhood affirm our identities as men and women of God. He is waiting to say it to you. If Jesus needed this experience then how much more do we?
Sons of evil men who turned to God and turned the whole nation with them. Prostitutes who live new lives. Changed people! And this is the point; God comes to people like us as we are and accepts us but he also offers hope and his promise to change us.
God desires us to teach and train our children by being a Godly Example for them.
*A few key Scripture references - Col 3:16, Deut 6:6,7
GPC has supported Mario and Esther Hernandez in their ministry in Mexico for over twenty years. John and Mario have traveled and ministered together for years. Enjoy this inspiring message
Grace has given us a new nature, the nature of God, living inside us. It has the power to overcome our rebellious self-centeredness, but it does not happen automatically. The Holy Spirit does not overpower our will and force us to choose God’s will. We get to decide how much of the new nature we will experience and how far the new nature will replace the old. The fact is there is a war that begins within us the day we accept Jesus as Lord. The Holy Spirit comes and establishes a beach head in our hearts and the war begins. Our self-centered nature vs. the divine nature. The battle ends a spit second after we die. Here is the good news, once we accept Jesus as Lord his death on the cross sets us free from being slaves to our sinful nature. We now have the ability to choose not to think and act out of our self-centered nature. The bad news is that our sinful nature remains. What this means is that our choices of what we think, the attitudes we will allow and the actions we take will determine how free we become of our self-centeredness and how much of the divine nature we partake in. This is what the Bible means when it tells us to “put on” the new nature. It means that our choices really matter. And it is the small choices that matter most. Every choice we make is either strengthening the new nature or strengthening the old and all these little choices add up to the kind of person we are. The biggest problem we have is not recognizing the problem of our sinful nature. Once we know that our default position is always toward our own self-will, we can recognize it at work in all our decisions. To fail to recognize the enemy is to be defeated without a fight. Most of the time Satan is not your worst enemy – your self-will is your worst enemy. Your pride is never your friend!One of the most helpful and loving things God can do for you is show you the depth of your sin. My example with Shell. Judging my mother and siding with my father.
Often we blame God for our problems, when sometimes we are the problem. However, even then, the God of Hope will bring us hope.
There are so many Moms of Hope in the Bible. God has used moms to do some of His greatest works throughout history. Listen to this message and see how God can bring hope through you!Key Scriptures: 2 Tim 1:5; Judges 5:7-9; Pr 6:20-23; 1 Sam 1:10-18;Matt 15:21-28; Luke 1:38
2 Corinthians 4:15-18 Ph; 1 Peter 5:5-11 NKJOften we get confused and discouraged when we go through trials. But rather than focusing on the trial, focus on what God is building in you through the trial. This will give you the hope you need. We will ALL go through some level of suffering in life. Some more than others, but life is hard for all of us who live on our fallen planet. And there are people on it, so it’s a given. Oh, and there’s Satan.The question isn’t whether you are going to suffer, but how are you going to respond to the suffering. What are you going to get out of the suffering? And are you going to go through the suffering with or without God?As one person said, “Don’t waste a good trial”.
So often our situation does not change when we want it to. It’s easy to lose hope. But what if God is doing something greater than changing your situation? What if He's more interested in changing you? Watch/listen to this encouraging message on how God can use your pain for His divine purpose. 1 Peter 5:5-11
This message is about what the generations take hope in, and what can rob them of their hope. This is not a sermon from the Bible. This message is a “men of Issachar” message.God commended the men of Issachar as “men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do” 1 Chronicles 12:32 This message is about understanding our times at GPC and our changing American culture, with particular reference to how our generations understand themselves as a part of GPC and our country. We sent out a survey that asked 5 questions:1.What would you say to other generations about what brings your generation hope?2.What are the things that contribute to your generation losing hope and struggling?3.What do you think your generation can contribute to other generations?4.What do you think other generations can contribute to your generation?5.What do you think God is saying to your generation?
Almost all of us can think of someone who we believe is beyond hope. Or a situation that is beyond hope. But not with Jesus. No one and nothing is beyond Hope when Jesus is involved. Mark 5:1-20
Jesus' resurrection brings us hope in this life in three ways. Watch/listen to this message and find out what they areScriptures: Romans 15:13 NKJ; 1 Peter 5:6-12 Amp; 1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV
Scripture: Matthew 21:1-16Summary: Jesus paid the ultimate price for our freedom - His own life. But it wasn't just for our sins to be forgiven, but for His Church to become the most powerful force for good on earth
When we learn to wait with a trusting and thankful attitude, we are acquiring the kind of character it takes to survive the promotion He intends for us. Big ministries require big character. No one survives a big ministry without a big character to go with it. Character sustains giftedness, not vice versa.Summary:1.If a prophetic word does not fit the present circumstances of your life, save it and wait and see later.2.The fulfillment of a prophetic word almost always involves God’s part and our part.3.Our reaction to a prophetic word should be in the “middle” - neither entirely passive nor entirely active.4.Our attitude towards a prophetic word matters – no contempt.5.We “test” the word by taking baby steps of obedience that move us in the general direction of the fulfillment of the word.Application: Return to what God has said to you in your prophetic word. Now ask God what is the next baby step that will move you in the general direction of the fulfillment of the word?
Prophecy is composed of three aspects: the actual data, the interpretation of the data, and the application of the interpretation of the data. Prophecy is often a means of divine guidance. As a means of guidance, it is subject to the same rules of determining God’s guidance that we face in any decision. 1. Make a decision to obey2. Know the Bible3. Use sound judgment, common sense, and clear thinking, in the light of:a) your gifts, abilities, temperament, passions, and energyb) quality counselc) the desires of your heartd) supernatural revelation
Prophecy is composed of three aspects: the actual data, the interpretation of the data, and the application of the interpretation of the data. Prophecy is often a means of divine guidance. As a means of guidance, it is subject to the same rules of determining God’s guidance that we face in any decision. 1. Make a decision to obey2. Know the Bible3. Use sound judgment, common sense, and clear thinking, in the light of:a) your gifts, abilities, temperament, passions, and energyb) quality counselc) the desires of your heartd) supernatural revelation
https://revivalcry.com/revivalist/den...Dennis Reanier is an apostolic leader with a prophetic voice to empower this generation to release the creativity of the Kingdom of God with-in them. As the founder of the Apostolic Resource Center, Revival Cry Ministries, and LOFT, Dennis continues to activate countless people internationally through impartation to stir revival, reformation, and revolution in preparation of the emerging agenda of the end time harvest. He is the co-founder of “Be A Hero, USA” – a non-profit organization for helping children at risk around the world. Dennis authored the sought after book Shaking Heaven and Earth. He has appeared on TBN and has a key role in the film Angel Stories by Jonathan Nixon. He has also been featured on God TV and XP Ministries with Patricia King. Dennis received a B.A. in Sociology from Seattle Pacific University and a M.A. in Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. Dennis and his wife, Tammi reside in Bozeman, Montana with their four daughters Jordan, Raegan, Naomi, and Josie.
John continues to teach through Psalm 51. God restores us and we have a part to play as well. The key here is sincerity, not religiosity. God wants our hearts, then our hands. 1) Be smart 2) Be Humble 3) Be ready - Depend on His Holy Spirit in us. Phil 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Guilt is a debilitating emotion, but God has a remedy for our guilt so we can live spiritually powerful lives. Watch this message and learn how you can experience spiritual restoration and renewal.Psalm 51 NKJ; Psalm 32 NLT
Guilt is a debilitating emotion, but God has a remedy for our guilt so we can live spiritually powerful lives. Watch this message and learn how you can experience spiritual restoration and renewal.Psalm 51 NKJ; Psalm 32 NLT
The great news - the mission of The Church has remained the same since Jesus’ resurrection even through the pandemicMatthew 28:18-20 NCV “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All power in heaven and on earth is given to me. So go and make followers of all people in the world. Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.’”The Church has survived, and will survive, every season, good or bad, until His return!So, this is our season. This is our time. And here at GPC we boil the GC down to two words: CHANGED LIVES
The great news - the mission of The Church has remained the same since Jesus’ resurrection even through the pandemicMatthew 28:18-20 NCV “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All power in heaven and on earth is given to me. So go and make followers of all people in the world. Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.’”The Church has survived, and will survive, every season, good or bad, until His return!So, this is our season. This is our time. And here at GPC we boil the GC down to two words: CHANGED LIVES
Summary: Women lead at the highest levels in every sector of society, except in the most powerful organization on earth - the Church. Why do you think that is? This message uncovers the reasoning behind it and empowers women to be all God created them to be - in His Church! 1 Timothy 2:11-15; 1 Corinthians 11:2-16; 1 Corinthians 14:33-38
Jesus came at a time when women were sorely oppressed - culturally, economically, politically, and spiritually. But He was a revolutionary and the greatest restorer of women the world has ever known.
God has designed friends and family to be the greatest source of joy and comfort in our lives. But many times these relationships can break down. Watch/listen to this message and see how, if you will partner with God, He can restore the most damaged relationships in your life.Genesis 41:50-52 NIV; Genesis 45:5-8 CEV; Job 42:7-17 NLT
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures,he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores (refreshes) my soul.” Psalm 23:1-3When we talk of restoring the soul, 2 questions come to mind; 1. What does it mean to restore or refresh? & 2. What is my soul?Re: question 1. For those of you who were not hear last Sunday the word “restore” or “refresh” comes from the root “to return”. In the Bible to restore something means to take it back to the best of what it once was. But it means more than that. Being a well-adjusted-gender kind of guy, I watch two kinds of restoration TV shows, car restoration shows and house restoration shows. I both shows the owner wants the car or house to be returned to what it once was at its best. But have you notices that they often want the car or house to be built up to modern standards. They want the charm, but they want the new technology as well. In other words, they want the best of what it was but also the best of what it can possibly be. This is God’s goal in the soul restoration project he has for you. Re: question 2. When the Bible talks about the “soul” it is talking about our deepest desires, emotions, passions, and thoughts. It often refers to our soul as our “heart”. It is all about a person’s inner being. It is where our sense of well-being comes from. Before we get into the means of how this restoration takes place, we need to understand that restoration occurs in two ways, as an event, and as a process. Here is my story of a restoration event.These events are wonderful but most of the time restoration takes place as a process. This is what Psalm 23 describes. “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores/refreshes my soul.” Psalm 23:2-3When you hear these words, what words come to mind? For me its “stillness”, “quietness”, and “rest”. And you will note that it is our shepherd God who is making this happen. He is restoring our souls, but He is doing it through stillness and quietness. This is a theme in the Bible.“Be still, and know that I am God;” Psalm 46:10“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;” Psalm 37:7 “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength,” Isa 30:15“My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.” Psalm 131:1-2“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:13-14All of us have “Egyptians” in our lives. Those problems, situations, lies, negative emotions and thoughts, that steal our peace and joy. These are the things that corrode our souls. What are your “Egyptians”? What are the thoughts and emotions, & situations, that keep you awake at night? Remember, it is God who restores your soul, you can only anesthetize it with temporary distractions. You cannot heal your own soul. Only God can do that., but you have a part to play in the process. It has to do with ruthlessly creating and protecting a time of encounter with God in stillness. Your part is to show up, be still, and let Him restore your soul. The only problems in your soul He will fix are the ones you bring to Him. Let’s try it…What are the negative thoughts, beliefs, emotions or circumstances that are damaging your soul? Read, Psalm 131:1-2….Bring the negative emotion to Him now – tell Him about it.Now wait… what is He doing? What is He saying? How is He here for you now?
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures,he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores (refreshes) my soul.” Psalm 23:1-3When we talk of restoring the soul, 2 questions come to mind; 1. What does it mean to restore or refresh? & 2. What is my soul?Re: question 1. For those of you who were not hear last Sunday the word “restore” or “refresh” comes from the root “to return”. In the Bible to restore something means to take it back to the best of what it once was. But it means more than that. Being a well-adjusted-gender kind of guy, I watch two kinds of restoration TV shows, car restoration shows and house restoration shows. I both shows the owner wants the car or house to be returned to what it once was at its best. But have you notices that they often want the car or house to be built up to modern standards. They want the charm, but they want the new technology as well. In other words, they want the best of what it was but also the best of what it can possibly be. This is God’s goal in the soul restoration project he has for you. Re: question 2. When the Bible talks about the “soul” it is talking about our deepest desires, emotions, passions, and thoughts. It often refers to our soul as our “heart”. It is all about a person’s inner being. It is where our sense of well-being comes from. Before we get into the means of how this restoration takes place, we need to understand that restoration occurs in two ways, as an event, and as a process. Here is my story of a restoration event.These events are wonderful but most of the time restoration takes place as a process. This is what Psalm 23 describes. “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores/refreshes my soul.” Psalm 23:2-3When you hear these words, what words come to mind? For me its “stillness”, “quietness”, and “rest”. And you will note that it is our shepherd God who is making this happen. He is restoring our souls, but He is doing it through stillness and quietness. This is a theme in the Bible.“Be still, and know that I am God;” Psalm 46:10“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;” Psalm 37:7 “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength,” Isa 30:15“My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.” Psalm 131:1-2“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:13-14All of us have “Egyptians” in our lives. Those problems, situations, lies, negative emotions and thoughts, that steal our peace and joy. These are the things that corrode our souls. What are your “Egyptians”? What are the thoughts and emotions, & situations, that keep you awake at night? Remember, it is God who restores your soul, you can only anesthetize it with temporary distractions. You cannot heal your own soul. Only God can do that., but you have a part to play in the process. It has to do with ruthlessly creating and protecting a time of encounter with God in stillness. Your part is to show up, be still, and let Him restore your soul. The only problems in your soul He will fix are the ones you bring to Him. Let’s try it…What are the negative thoughts, beliefs, emotions or circumstances that are damaging your soul? Read, Psalm 131:1-2….Bring the negative emotion to Him now – tell Him about it.Now wait… what is He doing? What is He saying? How is He here for you now?
There is nothing and no one that God cannot restore. And His restoration isn't just bringing something, or someone, back to their original condition - but rather to at least twice as good as their original condition. Listen to this message and be encouraged that God can, and will, restore any area of your life to a place that is better than before.
“The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating or drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Rom 14:17 What does the Holy Spirit have to do with righteousness, peace, and joy?The context for this verse is Paul’s discussion regarding how we should use our freedom from legalism. Do we indulge our freedom by doing something we are free to do but which might cause a Christian brother or sister to violate their own sense of right and wrong? Or do we lay down our freedom to protect a brother or sister from violating his or her own conscience? As interesting as this question is, it is not what I want to focus on today. Today I want to focus on Paul’s explanation of righteousness, peace and joy as being works of the Holy Spirit. There are two ways to interpret the phrase “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit”1. “… but of righteousness (Godly behavior and obedience) which when achieved, brings peace with God, which then brings the subjective experience of joy through the Holy Spirit’s activity in our emotions. The point in this interpretation is that our righteous behavior qualifies us for God’s peace and joy, through the Holy Spirit’s work.2. “…but of righteousness (knowing you are rightly related to God as a matter of identity and relationship), peace (the state of rest and wellbeing with God) and joy (the emotional result of the first two). The point in this interpretation is that all three of these are brought about by the Holy Spirit working within you. The first is true part of the time, when you are on your best behavior. The second is true all the time because it is the Holy Spirit accomplishing all three. The question is how does He do it? What does the phrase “in the Holy Spirit” mean? What does it mean to “be in the Holy Spirit?” It all comes down to what the word “in” means. Seriously!Here are the three definitions that best describe an activity or experience happening “in” the Holy Spirit. If we put all these definitions together, we get this definition of the phrase “in the Holy Spirit”: “a state or condition of close personal association or union or joining with the Holy Spirit by which another state or condition, event, or activity, is made possible.” In our verse the Holy Spirit is accomplishing three things.1. Righteousness – He provides the evidence of our right relationship with the Father. “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” Rom. 8:16 This affirms our identity at the deepest level possible, which enables the next state of being…2. Peace – He makes experiential to our mind and emotions our peace with God. The word “peace” used here comes from the root verb “to join” or “to set at one again”. Strong’s commentary is as follows: “according to a conception distinctly peculiar to Christianity, the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot, of whatsoever sort that is”. The Holy Spirit “joins” us to God in our minds and our emotions in a way that results in this kind of peace and rest. “… God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Rom 5:53. Joy – He touches our minds and emotions with Joy. Once you know your identity as a child of God and have been touched by His peace (joined to him at the deepest level by His unconditional love) how could you not be joyous. The word means joy, cheerfulness, and gladness. It is an emotional experience, not just a theological idea. It is a work of the Holy Spirit within your mind and your emotions. How do we experience these three great characteristics of the Kingdom of God? a. Dwell on these truths. Remind yourself of them every day. Read these passages to yourself every day.b. Tell your brothers and sisters these truths. c. Pray for yourself to experience more of all three.d. Pray for your brothers and sister to experience more of all three.e. Wait on the Holy Spirit with rejoicing and expectationf. Spend time alone with God daily and invite the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to make these real to you… hunger and thirst for more of Him!
John continues his message - Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to us when He went back to heaven, but do you know what the Holy Spirit's primary purpose is in your life? Watch/listen to this powerful message to find out.Key Scriptures: John 16:13-16 NCV; 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT; 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NLT; 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 NLT
John 16:13-16 NCV; 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT; 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NLT; 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 NLTJesus sent the Holy Spirit to us when He went back to heaven, but do you know what the Holy Spirit's primary purpose is in your life? Watch/listen to this powerful message to find out.
Jesus was moved by compassion. This is why He came, why He healed, and why He is coming back for us. He wants us to move in the same kind of compassion and power
In our culture it is the rich, the famous, the beautiful, and the talented that get to play. But in God's kingdom EVERYONE gets to play - and He always wins! Watch/listen to this message and see how God wants to use YOU to advance His kingdom.
Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 Msg; 1 Peter 4:10 NLT
Why do we limit what the Holy Spirit can do through our unbelief? Isn't He capable of anything? If so, why are we shocked when He does something spectacular? Let's up our faith! Let's not only believe for miracles, but let's believe for what the Bible calls, "Unusual miracles"!
Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NKJ; Galatians 3:5 NKJ; Acts 19:11-12 NKJ
Mark shares some tips and stories of how to discern your spiritual gifts - He starts by explaining that time is what we all have.
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Experiment. Start by trying all sorts of service in the church.
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Assess the results of your experiments to love.
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What gift/service are you passionate about and what gift gives you joy?
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Ask your leaders for their honest assessment. After a reasonable period of attempting a particular spiritual gift it will become apparent to your leadership that either you are growing in that gift or you are not. Be open to receiving their honest assessment.
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Hang around those in the church who have the spiritual gift you feel called to.
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Read good books about the gift you want to try.
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Take Risks with the gift. Spiritual gifts come by faith and faith is expressed by taking risks with the gift. What we are really talking about is not letting your pride and fear of looking foolish stand in the way of trying out the gift you desire. Pride is always your enemy and never more so than when you risk failure. Failure is not as destructive as not trying.
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Commit to your local church unconditionally. Without a radical commitment to your local church inconvenience will end up making most of your ministry choices for you
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Persevere. Genuine ministry has a “courting”, “honeymoon”, “marriage”, and “let’s go for counseling” stage.
John 15:10-11 1 Cor. 12:7 2 Tim. 4:2, Gal.6:9
be open, be dependent, be expectant We can't expect God to move in our hearts, if we don't open our hearts to him
Romans, 8: 26-27
Exodus 31:1-5 NKJ; Acts 2:17-18 NKJ The Holy Spirit has always been here. Before Jesus, He primarily empowered only the prophets, priests, and kings. But now He is for everybody!
Explaining the Holy Spirit to someone and experiencing the Holy Spirit are two completely different things. It’s like trying to explain to someone the experience of falling in love. Where would you begin??? It’s like telling someone about Jesus. Knowing about Jesus and knowing Jesus are two completely different things. As a teacher I do not just want to tell you about the Holy Spirit, I want you to experience the Holy Spirit. Taste and see!
Mark shares stories from the Bible and his experience regarding the need for God's power to be pursued. 2 Tim. 3:1-5, 1 Cor. 2:1-5, Luke 11:9-13 1. What is God's power? 2. Describe the consequences of denying God’s power?
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Where have you seen God’s power demonstrated in the last 3 months?
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What areas of your life are you looking for a display of God’s power?
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What areas may God want you to be looking for His power?
Paul recognized the problem of a powerless religion but fortunately, he also recognized the solution. “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.” 1 Cor. 14:1
Paul is telling us to increase our desire for the supernatural power of God to flow in our lives. It is not a desire which sits still, it is a desire that pursues, hunts, longs for.
- What is one thing you could do to eagerly pursue God’s this week?
Without the Holy Spirit there would be no:· Creation – Genesis 1:1-2 NLT · New Creation (Salvation) – Titus 3:4-6 NLT · Miracles – Galatians 3:5 NLT · Divine Healing – Acts 10:38 NLT· Divine righteousness, peace, and joy – Romans14:17 NIV · Divine love – Romans 5:5 NIV · Divine comfort – John 15:26 NKJ · Knowing Jesus – Matthew 16:15-17 NLT · Understanding the Bible – 2 Peter 1:20-21 GNT · Worship – Galatians 4:6 GNT · Divine guidance – Romans 8:14 NLT · Gifts of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 12:4 · Fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23 NLT · Divine prophecy, dreams or visions – Acts2:6-7 NLT · Hearing God’s voice – Acts 13:2 NLT · Encounters with Christ – Revelation 1:10, 11a · Revival – Ezra 1:1a, 5 NLT · No power over Satan – Matthew 12:22-32 NLT
1) Yield To The Holy Spirit - Yielding to the leading of the Holy Spirit is not a passive thing. It is active and it requires you to surrender your will For His Will. David did as the Lord commanded him, which brings us the second thing we must do to catch the Wind of the Spirit.
2) Obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. - The Lord told David to MOVE QUICKLY once he “heard” the sound of marching. (What is also interesting regarding how God moved in those days was the story of Elijah - and when he prayed for the drought to end. 1 Kings 18:41 “ go eat, and drink, for I Hear the sound of a heavy rain”)
Jesus paid it all! Everything we do at GPC is to experience more of God, not earn anything. Have you been trying to earn God’s love, acceptance, and favor? Let Him love you now.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, 5 having predestined us to adoption as children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:3-6 NKJ
Jesus paid it all! Everything we do at GPC is to experience more of God, not earn anything. Have you been trying to earn God’s love, acceptance, and favor? Let Him love you now.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, 5 having predestined us to adoption as children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:3-6 NKJ
Most religions deal with four questions: 1) What is God’s nature like? 2) What is human nature like? 3) What problem does the difference between 1) and 2) create? 4) What is the solution to the problem this difference creates?
We will start by looking at the nature of God as revealed in Chapter 1 of the Gospel of John. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome (understood) it. John 1: 1-5 Here is what we can learn about the nature of God from this passage: 1) God existed before anything we know as real existed. He was here at the beginning of our world. He is “self - existent”. He has no beginning, He simply always was. He exists outside of time, He is eternal. 2) God had a word (message) which He wanted to communicate to us. This message was from God, but it is also God himself. 3) This message is a “person” 4) Through this message, that is a personality, that is also God, everything that exists was created. 5) This message contains life, and that life is the light of understanding for all people. 6) The message that is a person, that is God, shines into the darkness of our confusion, but our confusion has not understood it.
Dennis McNally shares about his recent trip to Africa. He also preaches passionately about experiencing the love of God.
2 Corinthians chapter 4; Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT; 2 Corinthians 11:23-33 NLT The apostle Paul was "all in" when it came to telling others about Christ. He did not care what it cost him for three reasons. Watch/listen to find out what those were.
2 Corinthians chapter 4 NLT; Hebrews 10:19-21 NLT; Galatians 2:20 NLT; Colossians 1:24-29 NLT; 1 Corinthians Chapter 2 NLT
The world's motto is "Be all you can be!". But the gospel's message is that we are to let Christ be all He can be in us! We are clay pots that hold the life of Christ! The key to the Christian life is Our Body - His Life.
Listen/watch this message and learn how Christianity is not "do more and try harder" but rather trusting the life of Jesus that is already in you!
Scriptures: Nehemiah 1: 1-11 Main point: All throughout scripture people experienced "disruptions". What happens when we experience disruptions that have the ability to keep us down and out? As Christians, how we choose to respond to the disruption can either keep it a burden or turn it into a blessing.
The reason we are able to be Faithful to God is because He is first Faithful to us. Yes, He helps those who help themselves, but He also helps those who can't help themselves. Watch/listen to this message and let the faithfulness of God give you hope! Hebrews 12:1,2 NKJ; Luke 22:31, 32 NKJ; 2 Timothy 2:13 NLT; 1 Kings chapter 19 NKJ
Paul avoids leading from a position of authority. He avoids using a command model of leadership. He is a servant leader who leads through persuasion. This is best illustrated in his letter to Philemon.
Dennis has been a spiritual father to many people. Dennis and April McNally founded a mission organization and are planning a trip to Africa.
https://globalvoiceministries.org/
Everyone has a faith threshold - the point where you stop believing God for something. Listen/watch this message and let God extend your threshold so He can do more miracles in your life!
The power of the Early Church can be found in their prayer meetings. They knew that prayer was the key to their power. Do we? Watch/Listen to this message and be stirred to pray like never before.
Acts 4:41-42 NLT; Hebrews 10:19-22 NLT; 1 John 5:14-15 NKJ
“They devoted themselves to; 1. the apostles’ teaching, 2. and to fellowship, 3. to the breaking of bread and, 4. to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47 As John taught last week, the breaking of bread and eating together was a deep act of connection and fellowship, as was the sharing of their resources and wealth. This wonderful fellowship did not come about because the people devoted themselves to the first 4. It came about because the Holy Spirit came upon them at Pentecost. Their deep fellowship and communalism were a result of their powerful experience of Holy Spirit. It did not come from a political philosophy. It was entirely voluntary. It was never the result of threat or coercion. At Pentecost the infant church was birthed in power and love. This is God’s design; to touch us with His love and power such that we live a life of superhuman power and love. It is His intention that this be seen most clearly in our relationships with one another (in our fellowship). This is how it was for the infant church, and this is how God intends it for His Church today – for us. Now let’s fast forward 55 years to the Church in Corinth. The Corinthian Church was birthed into the same power. Paul describes the process like this, “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” 1 Cor.2:4-5 Sadly, they had the power but not the love. Here is Paul’s description of the state of the Corinthian Church. “ You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?” 1 Cor. 3:3
Application today for communion: Take the elements and find someone to take communion with. Maybe someone you don’t know well. Take turns inviting them to eat the bread and drink the juice. Bless them or pray for them to receive more of God’s love and power in their lives. Then have them invite you to eat the bread and drink the wine and receive the blessing or prayer that they speak over you. Above all, let’s express our love to one another. And when you receive the elements, remind yourself that through faith you are receiving more of God’s love and power in your life.
Key Scripture: Ephesians 3:10; Acts 2:41-42 NLT The Church is relationships. The stronger the relationships, the stronger the church. Watch/listen and learn how Satan tries to destroy your relationships and how Jesus works to build them.
Scripture: Acts 2:40-47; John 17:17; John 8:31-32 Summary: The first Church was powerful! And that is because they did four key things. In this message, we discover the first key.
There are tremendous joys in being a mom, as some moms shared with me recently as I was interviewing them, but for today I felt the Lord has led me to talk about how He is with you in the difficult seasons of mothering – as these pictures depict! (This message can apply to anyone, but today I am going to tailor it to moms)
DO YOU EVER FEEL like God is at a distance, and is not really interested or involved in the details of your life? There are millions of people who struggle with the idea that God is distant, and doesn't really know them all that much. It’s like God has better things to worry about than my little problems. Right?
You’ve probably felt this way at one point or another in your life.
Maybe you feel like God is distant from you because of your sins, or unworthiness. YOu have to work your way back into his good graces. You have some skeletons in your closet, secret sins that you are ashamed of and definitely do not want out in the open. The thought of the “all-knowing God”- knowing your deepest darkest sins... Listen to this message for the truth and hope we all need.
What’s the deal with God and names? He seems to think they are important. He does all sorts of interesting things with names. Let’s look at three things He does with names. 1. He renames people, and we are not talking about nicknames. 2. God speaks a new Identity or Characteristic to each of us. 3. Jesus stopped addressing His followers as “servants” and began calling them “friends”. He is doing the same for each of us today. Although we will always be His servants, He wants something far more intimate. He is not just looking for servants, He is looking for friends. By calling us His friends He is reminding us of our new nature. In fact, we are far more than just His friends. Paul tells us that Jesus is our brother. We are in the same family. We share the same spiritual DNA. God the Father calls us His “children”! He does this because He has already transformed us into His children. By calling us by our new identity He is reminding us of the transformation He has already accomplished. We are not striving to become his children; we ARE His children! “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come”. 2 Cor. 5:17
God wants to speak your new name to you. He wants to speak the characteristics of the “New Creation” that He is making you to be. Let’s give Him an opportunity to do that right now.
Tbroke the power of death, which means whoever trusts in Him alone for salvation, will be resurrected when they die to live with Him for eternity in heaven, – it also means that He can resurrect anything else in our lives that looks dead! This is the hope Jesus’ resurrection brings. Listen to what the apostle Paul says about it: Romans 1:4 Amp “Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative), set apart for [preaching] the gospel of God [the good news of salvation], 2 which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the sacred Scriptures— 3 [the good news] regarding His Son, who, as to the flesh [His human nature], was born a descendant of David [to fulfill the covenant promises], 4 and [as to His divine nature] according to the Spirit of holiness was openly designated to be the Son of God with power [in a triumphant and miraculous way] by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” If Jesus told us - which He did - when He was going to die, how He was going to die, who was going to do it, and it happened exactly as He said…AND that He was also going to be raised from the dead – when, where, and how – this not only proves He is Who He said He is, but it proves that everything else He said is true. All His teachings. Who He is, Who God is, Who Satan is, Who we are, how the world was made, heaven, hell, etc… John 10:18 NLT “No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”
Isaiah 40: those who wait - Strong's Hebrew 6960: 1) to wait, look for, hope, expect 1a) (Qal) waiting (participle) 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to wait or look eagerly for 1b2) to lie in wait for 1b3) to wait for, linger for 2) to collect, bind together 2a) (Niphal) to be collected You are not in revival if you have it all together – when God came to people they were undone! 1 Chron 21 NASB 1995 + Strong's Census Brings Pestilence 1Then Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number Israel. 2So David said to Joab and to the princes of the people, "Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan, and bring me [word] that I may know their number." – David was convicted and gave a sacrifice – Oman tempted him by offering to pay – David said no – I will not give a sacrifice that costs me nothing – God is not in a hurry – He flows through people that should make us hungry to want more with the Lord – but we need to have our own relationship with Him – David through it all on the line – didn’t care if he died – just wanted God’s presence – we have to choose that we want Him more than our own life – David was a man after God’s heart – willing to risk it all
The Least of These aren't all overseas in a third-world country. They may be living right next door to you. Can you recognize them? Watch/listen to this message and learn to put on your neighboring goggles.
If you were asked to describe God in one word, what would you say? God is love is a popular answer. But our definition of love can be watered down – I love that house, your earrings, shag carpeting… A word I think will help us more clearly understand the kind of love God is: God is a God of COMPASSION – When God declared nature to Moses He said, “gracious and compassionate” Compassion: Greek – To suffer with. The connection of suffering with another person brings compassion beyond sympathy into the realm of empathy. You feel what the suffering person feels. Some of you are uncomfortable with emotions. It makes you feel out of control. But this is how God feels about you. 10 day fast. Do we want to live comfortable lives or radical lives of love? Do we want to be the people of God? Must have God’s compassion. If don’t have it, ask for it. Compassion: Hebrew – Womb. – What you would feel if someone you love is hurt. God loves everyone. “For the love of Christ compels us…” 2 Corinthians 5:14a NKJ Love = an undefeatable benevolence and unconquerable goodwill that always seeks the highest good of the other person, no matter what he does. It is the self-giving love that gives freely without asking anything in return and does not consider the worth of its object. Compels = a tight grip that prevents escape – This is how Jesus gets His SOZO to others. Matthew 14:13-14 NKJ “When Jesus heard it, He departed from there by boat to a deserted place by Himself. But when the multitudes heard it, they followed Him on foot from the cities. 14 And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.” Jesus’ compassion for the hurting, lost crowd overrode His grief of his cousin’s murder.
James 1:27 NLT “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.”
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You are never too young for God to speak to you about what He wants you to do for Him (me @17, Prophet Samuel)
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We don’t need a supernatural sign for something the Bible already tells us to do (“wisdom in a multitude of counselors”)
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God’s timing is very often WAAAAAAAAAAAY longer than ours (17/21 yrs, Joseph 13 yrs until promoted)
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God never promised us or called us to a “comfortable” life (stepping out of our comfort zones)
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You will see God move in amazing ways you could never anticipate when you get on His page (resources, favor, house)
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What are you willing to hear? (Prisoner, Refugee, Undocumented worker, hungry/homeless, orphan, widow)
Understanding the Fear of the Lord unlocks a treasure of intimacy with God and profound blessings. Scripture: Isaiah 33:5-6 TPT; Hebrews 12:28-29 NKJ; Isaiah 11:2-5 NLT; Acts 2:42-43, 47b NKJ; Acts 5:11-16 NKJ; Acts 9:31 NKJ
God has created the world to work through unity - whether it is a marriage, a sports team, a symphony, or His Church. Satan knows this which is why he has worked to divide God's people from the very beginning. If we will unify we will have the Spirit without measure. Scripture: Psalm 133; 2 Chronicles 5:13-14; Acts 2:42-47 Key Words: Unity, Power
Jesus said that the way the world will know that He is the Son of God is by how Christians love one another. If this is true, then the opposite must be true as well. Listen/watch this message and learn how our unity is God's way of reaching a lost and dying world. Scripture: John 17:21-23 The Message; John 13:34 NLT
We would all like to see our friends and family give their lives to Jesus today! However, God's plan of drawing people to Himself is a process, and you are part of that process.
Scriptures: Philippians 1:6 NLT; 1 Cor. 3:5-9 NLT; John 4:31-38 NLT
Dennis shares his personal testimony and examples of different ways on how the gospel is preached to the lost. Scriptures: 1Peter 2:9 MSG Romans 10:14 MSG 1Cor. 1:17 KJ
In the series None too Far, Josh Hamilton discusses an important topic. Josh shares his testimony and how God spoke to him about self-righteousness and the danger and damage it can do.
So often we think only those who are desperate need Jesus. But we are all desperate - the Up and Outers and the Down and Outers. We all need Jesus. Watch/Listen to this message and get Jesus' heart for the lost. Key Verse: John chapter 4; Acts chapter 10 and 11; Luke 9:1-10
Acts 11:1-18 NLT Nobody is too far for Jesus to reach. But He reaches them through us. So the question is, who do you think is beyond your reach? Listen/watch this message and be challenged to extend your reach!
We all have dreams. God will help you fulfill your dreams because He is so good. But what about God’s dream? Did you know that God has a dream? Do you know what it is? Jesus showed John the fulfillment of God’s dream. And it’s not a pipedream. It’s going to happen. The question is – are you going to be a part of it. Revelation: 7:9-17 NLT “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10 And they were shouting with a great roar, “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!” 11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living beings. And they fell before the throne with their faces to the ground and worshiped God. 12 They sang, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and strength belong to our God forever and ever! Amen.” 13 Then one of the twenty-four elders asked me, “Who are these who are clothed in white? Where did they come from?” 14 And I said to him, “Sir, you are the one who knows.” Then he said to me, “These are the ones who died in[a] the great tribulation.[b] They have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white. 15 “That is why they stand in front of God’s throne and serve him day and night in his Temple. And he who sits on the throne will give them shelter. 16 They will never again be hungry or thirsty; they will never be scorched by the heat of the sun. 17 For the Lamb on the throne[c] will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes.” My calling is not to help you figure out how to get God to fulfill your personal dreams. My calling is to help you figure out how you can be a part of fulfilling His! 2 Questions: 1. Are you going to be in this crowd? 2. Are you going to help others be in this crowd? When God gives you a dream, it will be tied to His dream.
We all have to put our hope in something, or someone in our lives. But inevitably we will experience some measure of disappointment. But there is One who you can put your hope in Who will never disappoint. Watch/listen to this Christmas message and find An Unshakable Hope.
Isaiah 9_6-7 NKJ
We all may receive wonderful gifts this Christmas season, but they cannot be compared with the gifts God gives - His love, joy, and peace. Listen/watch this message and learn how to experience these gifts every day. Isaiah 9:6-7 NKJ; Romans 8:35-39 NLT; Isaiah 12:3; John 14:26-27 Amp
Self-awareness is many things, but at the center, it is the knowledge of how my history has made me the person I am today. It is a knowledge of my strengths AND weaknesses, my passion, temperament, dreams, disappointments, and as-yet unhealed brokenness. It is also an understanding of my sin and areas of temptation.
Blind spots None of us are perfect, we are works in progress. We have attitudes and actions that cause us to fall far short of God’s plan for our lives. This leads to living and leading in a way that does not make us happy or bless those around us, as it could. We all admit to this truth, but few of us are willing to take the journey toward self-awareness. Our reluctance to examine our lives soberly leads to what we call “blind spots.”
Bringing God into the process Clearly, our human nature recoils from self-awareness, yet the Bible counsels us to examine our hearts, motives, attitudes and actions. “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.” Romans 12:3 God is calling for honest and accurate thought as we think of ourselves. There is no room for blind spots here. “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” Psalms 139:23
Here the writer is inviting God into the process of self-awareness. What is noteworthy is that the writer is not limiting the process of discovery to the revealing of sin. He is asking God to reveal even his anxious thoughts. As well, it is worth noting that the writer is not asking God to know his thoughts for God’s sake. God already knows his deepest thoughts. He is asking God to reveal these things to himself. The point is obvious; we cannot fix problems we are not aware of. The first step to every solution is to recognize the problem.
Jesus promises us help in the process of self-awareness: “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 Jesus is referring to Himself when He refers to knowing the truth, but I think He is promising more than just the knowledge of Himself. The freedom He is promising must be more than just the freedom from sin. It must also include freedom from self-deception and the destructive blind spots that thwart our obedience to Him. In another passage, He promises us the help of the Holy Spirit to lead us into “all truth.” “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” John 16:13 Of course, Jesus is telling His disciples that the Holy Spirit will tell them of things to come, but when He uses the term “all the truth” He is not just referring to future events. He is promising that His spirit will tell them everything they need to know to live lives that glorify Him. “All truth” must include the knowledge of what must change in our self-awareness to live lives pleasing to God. Now for the hard part… Most of the time God reveals our blind spots through those around us. Flawed people often tell us about our flaws. Our pride dismisses their comments by saying, “they have more blind spots than I do, so why should I listen to them?!?!” God speaks through people just as often, or more often, than He speaks to us directly. We are called to admonish and correct each other, but we are called to do it “in love”. But just because the person bringing the truth does it poorly, is not an excuse for rejecting it. Face it, when we are being corrected the part of ourselves that hates it the most is our pride. Your pride is not your friend. Listen to those who bring you criticism, it just might be God who is speaking truth you need to hear.
Friends – use your faith to get miracles for your friends. Whatever is stopping you from helping others – inconvenience, fear of lack in your own life, don’t think you can do much – Don’t limit yourself! take the breaks off and look for ways to be a blessing! I had a teenager tell me this week that they felt empty. They were wondering what the purpose in life is. My answer: You were made by God to be a blessing. And once He sees that you are living your life to be a blessing to others, He will begin to bless you in ways you could never bless yourself. I give you the same challenge - spend this next week looking for ways to be a blessing to those around you. I guarantee you God will use you, your joy will go up, and you will help spread the love of Jesus. Friend – allow others to believe for you when you can’t believe for yourself. Whether it is for healing, provision, favor, etc, let your friends carry you when you need to be carried. What is stopping you? Pride? Fear? Pity? Sense of failure? Don’t want to impose on others… You were not designed to go it alone. Life is too heavy and too hard. It was never intended to be a solo act. “It is not good…” *When you do not let others help you, you block most of God’s answers to your prayers. God answers most prayers through others. AND you rob them of the joy and blessings of God returning to them in their own life. Whatever is blocking you, let the flood gates down and let the river of provision flow! Let God be God however God wants to be God in your life. Response: Q. Do you have a hard time letting others carry you in crisis? Why do you think that is? Ask the H.S. what He has to say about it and what He wants you to do. Q. Do you readily carry others or are you more focused on your own needs? Ask the Holy Spirt what He wants you to do. Ask Him what you can do specifically today/this week to be a blessing to someone – See/Say/Do
How you see people is how you will treat people. We are the people of God. We are to reflect Him to the world. Our goal: • To see others as God sees them. • To say about others what God says about them. • To treat others the way God treats them
Be a person who agrees with God about you - and others! “If you listen to the Word and don’t live out the message you hear, you become like the person who looks in the mirror of the Word to discover the reflection of his face in the beginning. You perceive how God sees you in the mirror of the Word, but then you go out and forget your divine origin. But those who set their gaze deeply into the perfecting law of liberty are fascinated by and respond to the truth they hear and are strengthened by it—they experience God’s blessing in all that they do!” James 1:23-25 TPT
Looking into God’s mirror will rid you of: • Fear • Insecurities • Half-stepping • Self-hatred • Unbelief • Pride. Looking into God’s mirror will release in you: • A healthy friendship with God • Faith • Courage • Joy, peace, and contentment • Freedom to love others even when they don’t love you.
Q. Where have you been getting your self-image/worth from? What mirror(s) have you been getting most of your identity from? Are they God’s? Exercise: Let’s invite the Holy Spirit to speak to us. What is He saying to you right now?
Josh Hamilton shares 3 reasons to obey God. He has us reflect on what stops us and what is He calling us to do. This message has many practical truths that we can apply right away. Take some time to reflect after the message and never hesitate to reach out for prayer through our secure contact form on our website at gatheringplacechurch.org
Life under the law is a mission impossible, it brings death. Life in the Spirit brings freedom, boldness, confidence, freedom and righteousness. The Holy Spirit makes the experience of the Fatherhood of God real. Because of what Jesus did we no longer deal with shame and separation from God.
2 Thessalonians 1:10 Amp; 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 TPT; Psalm 78:5-8 NLT Summary: It is so easy to focus on the negative things in life. This will produce more fear and unbelief. Focusing on the goodness of God will produce hope and faith.
There are three things that can stop you from fulfilling your divine destiny. Listen/watch this message, find out what they are and how to overcome them!
God has a divine plan for your life, but there will be obstacles that can derail your destiny. Listen/watch this message and learn what they are and how to overcome them.
Key Scriptures: 1 Peter 4:4-4, 12-14; Luke 9:23
Doing the will of God is not always easy. Watch/listen to this message and find out how you can fulfill God's plan for your life. Scripture: Matthew 26:36-46
Relationships are hard. People are difficult. This is what my bank teller told me when I suggested that the meaning of life is found in relationships. She said that people had hurt her and disappointed her and so from now on she would restrict herself to her husband and kids. Many people feel this way so why bother? The answer, as always, begins in God’s word.
God tells us that when we become a Christian we become a “New Creature”. Fine but what were we before and what are we afterwards? Our prior identity is quite obvious – each one of us is an individual. We are unique and separate from each other. This separateness and uniqueness is very important to us. We protect it, fight for it, brag about it, and defend it. But when we become a follower of Jesus, God supernaturally works a fundamental change in our identity. Firstly, he actually joins us by living in us! Secondly, he actually joins us spiritually to other Christians. Rom.12:5 “… so in Christ we who are many form one body and each member belongs to all the others.”
The word “belongs” used here means that we are spiritually connected to each other. It also means that we have rights of ownership to each other. This is a very high degree of connectedness! It is very similar to the miracle that takes place in marriage. The Bible says that the two become one. This means that a new creature is formed of the two individuals – a marriage! If the marriage is to succeed both people will have to stop thinking of themselves as individuals only.
The Bible goes on to say that because of our connectedness we share a common fate together. Rom.12:15 “…rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.” We are so joined that we share our joy and pain. This is not just a psychological effect of being part of a group sharing like values. This is a spiritual work of God. But why? What is the point of this miracle of connectedness? There are several reasons. Enjoy Mark's sermon. Share and subscribe to this YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCShVVuSsDrK7QDOB09UJa3g
Website - http://mark.cowpersmith.org/blog-posts/
God chose to reveal Himself in the role of loving Father. He chose the operating system of making gifts to His children rather than deals with His servants. This is what makes our faith unique. All other religions have a God who demands obedience and makes deals. Why does He relate to us like a loving father? Why is our operating system relational? Why does He value relationships so much? Because He is a relationship! Our God is three, each person of the Trinity in love with the other two. His very nature is a relationship. The wonder of that relationship is that we are welcomed into it, by love and for love. Some of you may have a very good question come to mind about now: “Does this mean our behavior doesn’t matter because He loves us unconditionally”? There are two truths that answer this question. The first is that there is nothing you can do to stop Him from loving you. You didn’t get it because you were good, and you won’t prevent it by being bad. He loves because He is love. The second truth is that your behavior does change your experience of His love. This is what Dennis was talking about when he talked about positioning ourselves to receive from God. Our behavior (our choices) positions us to receive more or less of God’s love, power, and blessings.
For example:
For men; where are you more likely to experience more of God’s love, presence, blessings, etc., at the Church men’s meeting or at a strip club? For women; while reading the Bible or surfing on Facebook?
Where is it easier to become conscious of God’s presence, at church or at a shopping mall?
When we make a habit of having regular times to be with God and to listen to Him and obey Him, we find ourselves experiencing more of Him in our lives.
Next week we will explore how a relational operating system affects our relationships with others, and how do Connect Groups fit into that.
So how do we receive from God. How do we expand the boundaries of our influence and spiritual authority? Dennis taught us that we do not receive because we earned it. All we receive from God comes because of His grace, not our good works. It is always a pure gift. But, he did tell us that we have a part to play in receiving from God. He said we need to “position” ourselves to receive. How do we do that? Dennis mentioned, having a prayer life with God, reading the Bible, and being a part of genuine Christian relationships [fellowship in a local church]. I want to look at another way we position ourselves to receive more of God in our lives.
Now here is the practical application. Growing beyond the circle of your human ability is very uncomfortable. Stepping out beyond what you have self-confidence for is awkward. What if I fail? What if I look foolish? What if my attempted prophetic word is wrong? Asking for more of the Holy Spirit’s power through me is risky. What if something strange happens? What if I get out of control? What if I get emotional? Maybe it is better to just sit in the back and never go forward for prayer or ministry. But what if God is calling you to step out beyond the circle of your comfort and familiarity? What if you will not grow unless you do? Expansion involves change and change involves risk. “Where do I position myself in order to receive more of the power of God in my life”? That position is a few inches outside of the boundary circle of my comfort zone. To see more of God in and through us we need to step outside of our comfort zones and take risks. So here is a good question; when was the last time you did something uncomfortable in answer to God’s prompting? If it is hard to answer that question maybe you’ve stopped growing. Are you willing to ask God regularly; what do you want me to do that is uncomfortable for me? Application: Wait for God to show you what He wants you to do that is beyond your comfort zone. It may be nothing more than coming forward in a service. Or as uncomfortable as offering to pray for your neighbor or co-worker. Whatever it is, take the risk and embrace the discomfort. And remember this; there is no joy like being used beyond your human ability to join with God to do something supernatural.
The Bible is clear, we need to receive from the Lord. Listen to this great message as Dennis explains the Scriptures and gives examples from his own life for how to receive from the Lord.
You do not drown by falling into a river. You drown by staying submerged in it. Listen/watch this message and learn how to get safely to shore. Key Scriptures: John 5:1-5
Josh shares from the Scriptures and his testimony. James 4:1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? 2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
4 You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? 6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
Purpose for imparting – for blessing, empowerment, effectiveness, fruitfulness, increase. In the Bible impartation is for your empowerment to help advance the kingdom of Jesus Christ: “Jesus gathered his twelve disciples and imparted to them authority to cast out demons and to heal every sickness and every disease.” Matthew 10:1 TPT One of the main ways authority, power, spiritual gifts, wisdom, anointings, are transferred from one person to another is through prophecy and the laying on of hands – which we are going to do today. Not just to Josh and Darylee, but after we ordain Josh and Darylee we are going to have lay hands on anyone who wants to receive more to do more for God. God gives different measures to different people for different purposes but you need these things to accomplish what God has called you to be and do. Stephanie for evangelism. David for service. Josh for worship. Darylee for outreach. Me for leadership, wisdom, and pastoral anointing. Mark and Dennis for prophecy. Laying hands to impart is considered in the Bible as a basic foundational truth. Elementary. (Jacob to sons) “Now is the time for us to progress beyond the basic message of Christ and advance into perfection. The foundation has already been laid for us to build upon: turning away from our dead works to embrace faith in God, teaching about different baptisms, impartation by the laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. So with God’s enablement we will move on to deeper truths.” Hebrews 6:1-3 TPT Examples: Numbers 27:15-23; Deuteronomy 34:9; Numbers 11:16-17 Acts 6:1-6, 8, 10, (They were already full of the Spirit and wisdom, however the Apostles still had something they needed – overseers anointing. And they got more than they bargained for!) (Hage) Acts 8:14-18 Phillip, on of the original 7, was operating in miracles and preaching. An entire city got saved. However, he called for Peter and John to come down to impart the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:10-18 God purposely does not give you all you need directly because He wants the body to be dependent on one another. Acts 19:1-6 You can be born again but not have the baptism of the Holy Spirit
Key Truths: Giver must give freely. “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8 NKJ Receiver must receive expectantly. “And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, ‘Look at us.’ So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them.” John 3:4, 5 The receiver must also have a healthy respect for the office of the giver. Honor a prophet and get… familiarity - Larry Josh and Darylee charge 1 Timothy 4:12-16; 2 Timothy 1:6; Josh and Darylee commission Acts 13:1-3 Leadership prays for others who want more from God to be able to do more for God.
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments”. Matt 22:36-40 Jesus summed up life as 2 relationships; 1. God and the individual (vertical) 2. the individual and others (horizontal). If we spend the majority of our attention and focus on the horizontal –even when our prayers to God are about our horizontal relationships – we are sadly out of balance. So how do we have this vertical relationship with an unseen person? How do we "love God with all our heart"? The answer is prayer, but of a certain type of prayer – a prayer that is all about a relationship. It is a type of prayer that focuses on “being” with God not for the sake of getting something done but for the sake of the relationship itself. This kind of prayer runs contrary to our nature. The World tells us that our worth and identity comes from what we do. When we greet a stranger, we usually ask “What is your name?” The second question we ask is “what do you do?” In human affairs our identity is a function of what we do and how well we do it. In other words, we have a performance orientation towards life. The problem is this orientation affects our prayer. Most of the content of our prayers is about getting things done. Most of our prayer is concerned with the horizontal relationships and the circumstances of our lives. Jesus on the other hand starts His definition of what matters most with our relationship of love with the Father. With regard to prayer this means that the vertical should come first if for no other reason that you can’t give away what you aren’t receiving. In God’s world doing comes from being, therefore being with God comes first.
Today we are going to learn 5 ways Satan tried to stop the Jews from rebuilding their beloved city. As we look at the way the devil works, see how you can apply it to the way he tries to stop you. Maybe it is in building your marriage and family, relationship with an estranged child, parent or sibling, a business or ministry, a friendship… Let’s also apply it to building our church.
“So, the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of Elul, in fifty-two days. And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, that they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God.” Nehemiah 6:15-16 NKJ
Let’s look at Jesus as our example of One at a Time “Many dishonest tax collectors and other notorious sinners often gathered around to listen as Jesus taught the people. This raised concerns among the Jewish religious leaders and experts of the law. Indignant, they grumbled and complained, saying, ‘Look at how this man associates with all these notorious sinners and welcomes them all to come to him!’ In response, Jesus gave them this illustration: ‘There once was a shepherd with a hundred lambs, but one of his lambs wandered away and was lost. So the shepherd left the ninety-nine lambs out in the open field and searched in the wilderness for that one lost lamb. He didn’t stop until he finally found it. With exuberant joy, he raised it up, placed it on his shoulders, and carried it back with cheerful delight! Returning home, he called all his friends and neighbors together and said, “Let’s have a party! Come and celebrate with me the return of my lost lamb. It wandered away, but I found it and brought it home.” Jesus continued, ‘In the same way, there will be a glorious celebration in heaven over the rescue of one lost sinner who repents, comes back home, and returns to the fold—more so than for all the righteous people who never strayed away.’”Luke 15:1-7TPT
“Vision is a clear mental picture of what could be, fueled by the conviction that it should be. Vision is a preferred picture. A destination. Visions stand in contrast to the world as it is.” – Andy Stanley Our vision right now is: It is time to rebuild! Every pastor I talk to says it is a new beginning. That even though many have left their churches due to Covid convictions, racial divide, politics, or simply drifted away due to getting out of the habit of going to church – and though their churches are smaller they are more powerful. Everyone who is there wants to be there and they are hungry! Hungry to worship. Hungry to fellowship. Hungry to build the kingdom of God! The best rebuilding example in the entire Bible is from the book of Nehemiah. We are going to look at four keys that enabled Nehemiah and his team to pull off the miraculous in rebuilding their city after it had been burnt to the ground.
Scriptures: 2 Kings 3:9-24 NKJ; 2 Corinthians 2:14a NKJ Strength and strategy are both needed to succeed in life, and if you seek the Lord He will give you both. Watch/listen to this message and learn how to get both strength and strategy from the Lord!
Jesus instructed the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit. He told us to be importunate about pursuing the Holy Spirit. Paul told us to hunger and yearn for the Spiritual Gifts. Why? Because we are in a spiritual war and we have an enemy committed to keeping these blessings away from us. Because these are the weapons that can defeat him. Key Scriptures – Acts 2:1-4, Acts 1:4-5, Luke 11:9-13, 1 Cor. 14:1, Judges 3:1-2, Math. 11:12 Discussion Questions: 1. What is your reaction to being told to make a nuisance of yourself in pestering God to give you more of the Holy Spirit in your life? 2. What would it look like in your life to “pester” God for more of the Holy Spirit? 3. How can you “burn with desire” for more of God in your life? What fans your flame? 4. Why would God want you to learn to fight for more of Him? 5. How do you think the Enemy is trying to keep you from fighting for more of the Holy Spirit in your life?
Many times when things in your life are going crazy, it isn't just life, it's a demonic, spiritual attack. Watch/listen to this message and learn how to recognize and overcome the enemy! Scriptures: Ephesians 6:10-20 Amp; 1 Thessalonians 2:18 NKJ; Revelation 12:11 Amp; 1 Peter 5:8-11 NLT; 2 Corinthians 2:8-11 NLT;
David had worn out a pathway to God‘s presence. He learned strength and strategy.
Psalm 138 New International Version
Of David. 1 I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing your praise. 2 I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. 3 When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.
4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, Lord, when they hear what you have decreed. 5 May they sing of the ways of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord is great.
6 Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar. 7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. 8 The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.
Guest Speaker April 25, 2021: Dennis Reanier is an apostolic leader with a prophetic voice to empower this generation to release the creativity of the Kingdom of God within them. As the founder of the Apostolic Resource Center, Revival Cry Ministries, and LOFT, Dennis continues to activate countless people internationally through impartation to stir revival, reformation, and revolution in preparation for the emerging agenda of the end-time harvest.
How to Live a Meaningful Life Part 2 - John talks about the unique way God has created us and wants to flow through that uniqueness.
Discussion Questions:
What do you think about the truth that God had a purpose for you before he placed you in your mother’s womb? How might this change the way you live? God made you to be you. Are there areas in your life where you are not being you? Why do you think you’re allowing that to happen? Consider what you do well and how God has wired you. What lessons can you draw from that about how God wants to use you for his work? What things may make it difficult for you to figure out how God has wired you? Ask those around you to share what they see in you—pieces that may reveal how God wired you. Have you ever praised God for making you “in an amazing and wonderful way”? Spend some time in prayer now, thanking God for how he’s made you.
The one resource we all have in equal measure is time. How we "spend" our time determines the quality of our lives. We can invest it in everything from making money to making friends, to a great family, or merely pleasure. When we get to Heaven we will be rewarded in accordance to how we spent our time for God. Relationships are God's first priority; relationship with God, ourselves, and others. I start with our relationship with ourselves. The emphasis here is on self-awareness. The scripture passage is Romans 12:3
Questions: 1. What do you think of the idea that how you spend your time is the central issue of your Christian life? 2. Have you ever examined how you spend your time? If so, what did you discover? 3. How do you think you would react to the psychological experiment of having to sit alone for 15 minutes to think about your life? Positive or Negative reaction? 4. When was the last time you thought about how your history has made you the person you are today? If you have, what did you discover? 5. When was the last time you examined your strengths AND weaknesses, or your disappointments, or unhealed brokenness, habitual sins or areas of weakness to temptation? If you have, what did you discover?
If there is one thing we have learned these last years, it's that our only hope is found in Jesus.
If there is one thing we have learned these last years, it's that our only hope is found in Jesus.
Pastor John opens up the Scriptures to us again and focuses on who God is, all the time.
Pastor John shares how crucial knowing God's goodness is. He shares from the Scriptures and personal experience.
Dennis and April McNally – Dennis is an apostolic father and has been leading churches and ministries for almost 50 years. He has a strong vision for missions and a passion to establish prophetic ministry Dennis travels and helps lead networks of ministries and churches in different nations of the world and is currently the apostolic leader and director of Global Voice Ministries, traveling with his wife April and bringing teams into nations carrying a strong preaching and prophetic ministry.
Mark Cowper-Smith teaches on discerning of spirits, tongues and the interpretation of tongues. The Holy Spirit interacts with us in two ways - externally and internally.
The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Pt 7 - Faith, Healing, Miracles
Scripture 1 Cor 12:1-11; Acts 8:4-8
Summary: We, the Church, are designed by Jesus to operate in signs, Miracles, and wonders every day. Watch/listen and be inspired to expect God to use you in the supernatural.
John shares a great message about the Gift of Knowledge. He uses helpful examples and has a time of impartation. Some prophetic words are shared by the leadership team.
The Church should be the most powerful organization on the planet. This is the way Jesus designed it. And it is not because of our human capability, but rather the supernatural capability of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:1-7
Being filled with the Holy Spirit is not a one-time experience. We are to be continually filled as we live by the power of the Holy Spirit. Learn how to stay filled!
The Holy Spirit works within us for us and upon us for others. They are two different works with different purposes. The first has to do with our identity as children of God. The second has to do with God’s power for others flowing from us. How do we cooperate with both? Desire and Risk.
Scriptures: John 7:38-39; Isaiah 44:3-5; Ephesians 5:18 You cannot fulfill God's purpose for your life without being empowered by the Holy Spirit. And it is not a one-time experience. It is a daily in-filling. Check out this message and learn how to stay filled with the Spirit!
Do you want a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit for the New Year? Jesus is ready to fill you if you're ready to receive.
When we look back at this nasty year it is easy to ask ourselves the question; What was the point of that year? Does it even have a point? How can I accurately evaluate this year of real troubles and disappointments? Through what lens should I view it?
This Christmas is different than any other Christmas due to the pandemic. But this give you more of an opportunity to be like Christ this Christmas to those who need to know His love.
God gave you your mind to work for you, not against you. Learn how to pull down strongholds so you can live in mental and emotional health.
Many feel that complaining is condemned in the Bible. In some places, it is - in others, it isn't. In fact, when it is done properly, it releases the Presence and power of God in your life.
The Bible promises us a peace that is beyond our understanding. But how do we get there from here? Watch this message and find out!
Here is the best way to turn your anxiety, fear, and frustrations into something highly productive.
The Bible says that Jesus' kingdom is unshakable! That means that if you are in His kingdom, when the world shakes, you don't have to shake with it. Check out this message and learn how to be unshakable!
Jesus did not call you to boredom when He called you into His kingdom. He called you to an Adventurous Faith!
Tune in for sermon #2 of our new series: JESUS! We're calling this message Radical Commitment.
This is the first sermon of our new series: JESUS! Tune in to learn more about walking with Jesus.
More about our church here: https://gatheringplacechurch.org/
Enjoy this shortened version of this week's sermon. There are no announcements, worship, or prayer in this version. If you prefer the full version, watch that one here: https://youtu.be/zHI973uvi3o
Check out our website for more information about our church. https://gatheringplacechurch.org/
And be sure to SUBSCRIBE to follow along with our next series: JESUS!
We need to know how to respond in these times. Here are 3 Don'ts and 3 Do's in the End Times. This is part of our Let Hope Arise Series. If you prefer to watch the version with worship music and prayer, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wk08I...
This series was put on John's heart for us at this time. It is an important message for all times.
We grow in faith. It is not automatic. It takes time. But the more you grow in faith, the more glory you give to God. Listen as pastor John continues his message from the life of Abraham and learn how you too can grow in faith, giving Glory to God.
We grow in faith. It is not automatic. It takes time. But the more you grow in faith, the more glory you give to God. Listen to this message and learn from the life of Abraham how you too can grow in faith, giving Glory to God.
Our lives are to glorify God. That is our purpose while living on this planet Listen to this message and learn the one thing that most glorifies God.
God has built the power of unity into His creation. We experience more of Him when we are in unity. He commands a blessing upon us when we are in unity. Satan’s principle weapon against us is disunity. Jesus prayer for us is for unity. Our unity comes from three sources; loving Jesus, loving one another, and loving the lost. Protecting our unity means focusing on the quality of our relationships within our church.
When Jesus does big things in your life it isn’t only because He wants to bless you, but so that He can reveal His glory to the world! So ask BIG so people can see how big your God is!
When Jesus does big things in your life it isn’t only because He wants to bless you, but so that He can reveal His glory to the world
So often when we go through a trial we wonder where God is. But this message will help you see that when you are going through hard time, God is setting you up to experience a greater measure of His glory!
God's word for 2020 is that we are going to see His glory. Listen to the opening message of this series to get a glimpse of what that will look like.
God knew exactly what you needed and came down from heaven to be that for you. Listen to this message and see how God, in Christ, meets all your deepest needs.
We all fall short. We all mess up. But when we experience God’s grace we are empowered to fulfill His will. Listen to this message and learn how grace saves you, strengthens you, and gives you hope!
Science has proven that if you choose to live a thankfully you will be healthier, happier, sleep better, and have a higher self-esteem. But the Bible already teaches this. Listen to this message and learn about the transforming power of thankfulness!
So often our only definition of ministry is volunteering in the church, or the professional clergy. But God's definition of ministry is you re-presenting Jesus in your everyday life. Listen to this message and discover that God has gifted you to be His minister to the world!
As Christians our citizenship is in Heaven. This means that we should not expect this life in the world to satisfy our souls. We can expect suffering and injustice but all of it is outweighed by what awaits us in Heaven with our God of perfect love.
So much of our identity in our current culture has to do with individuality. But that only breeds loneliness and purposelessness. Jesus has a different plan - He has saved you to be part of His body, and His purpose for your life is for you to help build His body. Listen to this message and learn how you can be a B.O.D.Y. builder!
Once you have given your life to Jesus you are no longer a sinner just saved by grace. Rather, you are the righteousness of God. Listen to this message and experience how receiving the gift of righteousness completely transforms you!
What is the role of taking risks in acting in faith? Faith is more than just what we choose to believe God is willing to do. It is taking action to see His will accomplished. Supernatural results require risk on our part.
We all go through trials, but going through them successfully is what we all want to do. Listen to this powerful message and learn three ways to Triumph in Trials!
Knowing your identity will give you the security you need to truly be successful in this life, and in eternity. Listen to this message and learn what true success is and how to achieve it.
Our faith was never intended by God to be a religion. Its essential nature is a relationship. We were never created to be moral beings focused on right and wrong behavior. We were created to operate from a relationship of love with our Father.
Ever since the fall in the Garden mankind has been searching for its identity. We look to other people, ourselves, nature, and our positions/possessions/and performance. But our true identity can only be found in God. Listen/watch this message and discover your true identity!
Ever since the fall in the Garden mankind has been searching for its identity. But our true identity can only be found in these four sources. Listen/watch this message and find your true identity!
The devil has been trying to define us from the very start as worthless. But God created you in His image, and through Jesus has re-created you to be transformed into the image of His Son! Listen to this message and let the Word of God define you, not the devil.
Envy is a destroyer - a destroyer of your peace, joy, contentment, finances, and relationships. Listen to this message and discover how you can slay this giant in your life
We will all face insurmountable obstacles in life. The question isn’t if, but how will you face them - in faith or fear? Listen to this inspiring message and find new faith to help turn your obstacles into opportunities for the glory of God!
Religion hates the sin and so judges and rejects the sinner. Jesus loves the sinner and so judges and rejects the sin. Jesus hates sin because of what it does to people. He is people centered not sin centered.
By loving a sinner "beyond hope" Jesus defines the difference between our faith and all other religions; all others demand righteousness before acceptance, ours gives acceptance before righteousness, and righteousness flows from acceptance.
How do you view people who are far from God? Do you feel judgement and disdain towards them, or heartfelt compassion? Listen to this message and get in touch with Jesus' heart for drawing people to the Father.
How do you view people who are far from God? Do you feel judgement and disdain towards them, or heartfelt compassion? Listen to this message and get in touch with Jesus’ heart for drawing people to the Father.
The Holy Spirit has unlimited, supernatural capabilities, and He has been sent to help you in every area of your life. In fact, Jesus called Him, “The Helper”. Listen to this message and begin living a supernatural life.
God is emotional and so when His spirit interacts with us it is often an emotional experience. We fear being "out of control" and getting "carried away", but maybe this is exactly what God intends for us when He interacts with us through His spirit. The Biblical phrase "in the Spirit" means to be moved from one spiritual or mental or emotional state to another through the union or intimacy with the Holy Spirit which results in a new state which we could not reach without being intimate with Him and through His power. The result is always greater knowledge of Him and intimacy with Him.
The power of God's Spirit is for you! He first poured it out on His Son, Jesus, then on the first followers of Jesus, and now on you. Listen to this message and learn how the power of the Holy Spirit is for you , today!
Jesus’ love is the most powerful, life-changing force on earth. The Bible says it is even greater than faith and hope. Listen to or watch this message and learn about what Jesus’ love can do in your life.
The Christian life is not to be lived out by human will-power, which is impossible, but with Holy Spirit power, which is available to every believer. Listen this message and learn how to stay “Spirit-filled”!
Listening is an act of love. To listening well requires asking good questions. Jesus led by asking good questions. Neuroscience reveals that asking good questions is powerful. How to ask good questions.
Love is not easily offended, and yet we are being taught a new philosophy today. Rather than learning to overlook an offense, we are being trained to look for offense. This is destructive. Let’s follow Jesus’ example and forgive those who offend us so we can help bring more unity, not more division.
We are to be a truth telling people, but we live in an age that denies the existence of absolute truth. How do we communicate truth to people for whom it is irrelevant? We earn the opportunity by loving them before we speak. The greatest way to do this is to listen with love. To love is to listen and to listen is to love.
So often we allow our differences to divide us rather than giving love the opportunity to build a bridge. When we do this we not only lose our relationships, we lose our calling – to re-present Jesus to the world. Listen to this message and be challenged to live a life of love.
Many of us have been touched by the love of Jesus, but that is just the start. Jesus’ love is unending, unlimited, unconditional, and unreasonable! The more you understand the depth and experience the power of His love the more you become like Him. Listen to this powerful introductory message to this series!
It was the heart of the Father that sent Jesus to the cross and then raised Him from the dead. He did this so we would have a way home. Listen to this message and learn about the love of the Father for you!
It is startling that Jesus calls us His friends, and even more shocking how He proved His friendship to us, by hanging on a cross to set us free. Listen to this description of what Jesus calls a true friend and draw closer to the best Friend you could ever have!
The test of our faith comes because there is almost always a delay between God's promise and its fulfillment. This is the test of time. This is the time that we develop perseverance and Christlike character, which is of eternal value. Finding God during the delay is how we learn to "wait well".
As CHILDREN OF GOD, what do we do when we are surrounded by, burdened by, and sometimes gripped by WORRY or Anxiety? Listen to this message from Josh and find out.
Words are powerful! God created the world with His words. Jesus spoke to winds and waves. And Jesus told us we can do the same. Listen to this message and learn about the power of faith’s confession!
All of heaven's authority rests in the name of Jesus! That is why when you use His name, heaven responds, and hell obeys!
Faith is the key to releasing heaven on earth, but often we struggle to have the kind of faith we need. But once you learn about the Blood Covenant, not only will you find it much easier to believe the promises of God, but you will never take communion the same again.
Jesus has called us to love supernaturally. This is impossible with our own, limited human love. Listen to this message and learn how to live by the supernatural love of God!
As followers of Christ we are supposed to be known by our love, but all too often we fall woefully short of loving like Jesus loves. Listen to this message and be empowered to love like Jesus!
Faith comes through "hearing" the "voice" of God. This comes through the Holy Spirit either when He highlights a scripture we are reading, directs us to a scripture He wants to speak to us, or drops one of His thoughts into our minds directly. All of these require learning to listen to our thoughts for what might be His thoughts. It is better to learn to listen before we experience trouble so that we will be ready to acquire faith when the crisis comes. We do this by devoting time daily to being still to listen to him with a journal, bible and pen.
God intends to do BIG things in and through our lives, but so often we give up before it happens! Listen to this message and find courage to stay faithful until His promises come to pass in your life!
Faith is powerful! It can move mountains! Listen to this message and learn how faith works and how to walk by faith so the impossible things you want to see happen in your life can become possible!
To some, faith can be a mystery, but not to Jesus. He clearly explained what faith is, how it works, and how you can get more of it. Listen to this opening message and experience your faith growing so that you can move mountains and walk on water.
God with us. Those are the three most powerful words in the world. If God is with you, you can conquer anything! Listen to this Christmas message and be encouraged to trust God with your life.
Jesus entered the world in hiddenness and humility. Why did the creator of our world choose to come via obscurity and humility? He did so to protect our free choice by not providing conclusive proof of his divinity. Enough light for those who truly desire to find Him and enough darkness for those who truly do not desire to find him to stay in darkness.
Do you serve a big God or a small God? Some believe it is wrong to ask God for big things. But God LOVES to answer big prayers because it REVEALS His bigness to the world! Listen to this message and be inspired to pray BIG prayers to your BIG God so He can do BIG things in the earth!
God commands thankfulness, but why? It is for our health, both mental, physical and relational.
Developing a friendship with God is the ultimate goal of our relationship with Him. This is what He has called us to. But what does it take to develop this kind of relationship with God? Listen to this message and discover the two essential ingredients to a friendship with God.
Most believers are usually more focused on how they are not pleasing the Lord than on how they are pleasing the Lord. Listen to this message and learn 10 things that please the Lord. You might find you are doing better than you think.
Friendship with God and others is impossible without honesty and vulnerability, so why is it so hard to do? What stands in the way of real friendships? What is the condition of our self-images? What are they composed of?
Many of us do not understand God's deep desire to be our Friend. Most of us have a few deep friendships in our lives and they bring us joy, comfort, and camaraderie. God desires the same. Listen to the conclusion of this message and learn what it means to be friends with God.
Many of us do not understand God’s deep desire to be our Friend. Most of us have a few deep friendships in our lives and they bring us joy, comfort, and camaraderie. God desires the same. Listen to this message and allow the definition of your relationship with God to include being friends.
The greetings in Chapter 16 reveal Paul’s vision for Christian community – unity which transcends race, gender, sectarianism, socio-economic status, etc.
It is so easy to judge others, yet God does not call us to judge. He calls us to love one another and to help each other across the finish line! Listen to this message and learn to love, not a judge.
What does a transformed life look like? Listen to this powerful yet practical message and find out!
When you realize what extreme measures God went to pour out His mercy on you, you will spend your life loving Him back. This is what Romans chapter 12 is all about!
Rick Zachary shares life lessons from 4 decades of ministry all around the world as a missionary.
Chapters 9-11 of the Book of Romans is a profound insight into the sovereignty, the mercy, and the majesty of God. The ultimate purpose of every revelation of God is deeper worship of God. May this message increase your awareness of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in your life!
Do you want more of God's Presence, power, and purpose in your life? LIsten to this powerful message by pastor John and learn how you can experience an increase of God's divine activity in your life.
Grace has mistakenly been defined as freedom to sin. Paul defines grace as freedom from sin. Paul offers us three solutions to living free from sin. These involve our belief, our choices and our focus.
Paul begins to list the benefits and characteristics of the gift of redemption Jesus accomplished on the cross. He lists: peace, joy, access into the presence of the Father, perseverance, and hope.
Living by faith is not one of many options for the believer, it is the only option, and it opens up all of heaven! Listen to this message and be inspired to trust God at the deepest levels.
The purpose for the book, Paul sets forth his theology immediately, He starts with the problem of sin and the slow descent of mankind.
The debate between evolution and creation has been raging for a very long time. But this message presents a clear case that will give you the confidence you need as a believer in creation to share what you believe and why you believe it. And for the non-creationist, this information will give you some things to consider.
One of the most asked questions is, "Do all roads lead to heaven?" Or, put another way, many people believe that it doesn't matter what you believe as long as you are searching for God because all roads lead to heaven. But do they? Listen to this message to find out.
Many people have tried to disprove the authenticity and authority of the Bible for centuries, but the evidence is overwhelming that it is accurate and flawless, Listen to this message and you will be convinced that the Bible is true!
Everybody needs hope, not only for this life, but also for the next. Listen to this message and learn how the resurrection of Jesus Christ does both!
Jesus paid it all! There is not an area of your life Jesus didn't die for. Listen to this powerful message and gain greater faith for God's blessings in your life!
The subject of evangelism can be intimidating. But when you see that it's not all up to you it takes the pressure off. Listen to this message and gain confidence in how you can do your part in seeing people come to Christ
Most Christians want to share their faith in Christ with others, but very few actually do. This is bad news for those who are far from God! Listen to this encouraging message and learn how to effectively share the Good News with those around you.
Many people wander through life never discovering how God has uniquely gifted them and for what purpose. Listen to this encouraging message and learn how to use your God-given giftings for His glory.
Pastor Mark Cowper-Smith brings and awesome word on Loving God Back with out time. This is Part 2 in our series. To watch the video of this message, copy and paste this link in your browser: https://youtu.be/KuzIIs7oga0
Pastor John brings a powerful message in our new message series called "Loving God Back." To watch this message, copy and paste this link in your browser: https://youtu.be/rFwuxfqd35Y
Enjoy this uplifting message by guest speaker Colin Higgenbottom. You can also watch this video by clicking here: https://youtu.be/CnlvN7WkEIw
The one thing we cannot live without in this life is hope. We all need hope, for this life and the next. Listen to this message and see why Jesus is, The Hope of the World.
John opens and closes his gospel, as it relates to Jesus’ disciples, with the phrase, “Follow Me.” Listen to the close of this series and learn how Jesus says to successfully follow Him until He returns.
Jesus gathers His closest friends the night before His death to share His deepest thoughts and concerns. his prayer for them and for us concerns protection from Satan and in particular disunity. Unity is His highest priority!
In this chapter Jesus gives the Holy Spirit a wonderful name – The Helper! We all need help in life, but especially when it comes to following Christ. In fact, without the Holy Spirit it is impossible to follow Jesus. Listen to this message and learn how many ways the Holy Spirit helps you in your daily walk with Jesus.
Where can you find peace in the midst of chaos? In John chapter 14 Jesus gives us three big key truths that produce peace in our lives not matter what the circumstances. Listen to this message and regain your peace!
Jesus washes the disciples feet. Where does the humility come from choose to be a servant of all? For Jesus and for us it comes from the realization of our childhood in our Father God. Self sacrificing love is the normal life of a Christian.
There are many times when your faith in Jesus will be challenged and you will have to make a fresh decision to follow Him. Listen to this message and be emboldened to follow Jesus no matter what the cost.
Why does Jesus wait until Lazarus is dead to go to his family? To engender faith in the disciples and all those who witnessed the death. To share the family’s loss and pain. To reveal the Father heart of God.
Jesus is the safest leader on earth. You can trust Him and follow Him without reservation! Listen to this message and learn the difference between healthy leaders and unhealthy leaders and how Jesus outshines them all!
Jesus heals the man born blind. The Pharisees reject Jesus because he violates their religious traditions. In so doing, they judge themselves. The man born blind is transformed not just physically, but emotionally as well. He is a new man and comes to belief in Jesus as the Christ. Jesus did not come to bring His judgment upon us but to force us to make a judgment of our own, as to who he is. We judge ourselves by our judgment of Him.
Jesus came to free us from 3 powerful forces that threaten to ruin our lives. Listen to this message and find hope and power to live a victorious life.
Jesus made it very plain that we cannot find soul satisfaction outside of Him. Listen to this message and find yourself being drawn closer to Christ!
Jesus made it very plain that we cannot find soul satisfaction outside of Him. Listen to this message and find yourself being drawn closer to Christ!
Jesus still heals today. The healing stories in the Bible are not only to glorify Jesus, but to create faith in your own heart for your healing, and for you to believe for the healing of others. Listen to this message and let your faith rise!
Jesus announces two major tenets of our faith: 1. Relationship not Religion, 2, Complete dependence upon God’s power for our righteousness.
Jesus is most compassionate when we are most desperate. He is easily moved by our infirmities and draws near to heal us. Listen to this message and find the hope you need in your most desperate times.
The kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom so we must ask the Holy Spirit to keep our eyes open so we can see, enter, and rule in Jesus’ kingdom with Him!
Without a genuine relationship with Jesus and continually being filled with the Holy Spirit we can easily drift back into religion. Listen to the is message and see how Jesus calls us to be filled with the Spirit and to courageously live for God and God’s purposes alone.
Without a genuine relationship with Jesus and continually being filled with the Holy Spirit we can easily drift back into religion. Listen to the is message and see how Jesus calls us to be filled with the Spirit and to courageously live for God and God’s purposes alone.
You have more spiritual authority that you realize. Listen to this message and renew your authority.
Sometimes we make Christianity all about us. But John has one message: We find our life, purpose, peace, and power all in Jesus. Listen to this message and make Jesus the center of your life again - or first the very first time - and experience the peace only He can give!
Many followers of Jesus live feeling condemned all the time - believing they aren’t doing enough for God and continually falling short. On the other hand the world is living with a philosophy of “relative truth” which only leads to more questions and confusion. That is why when Jesus came to earth He brought us grace and truth. Listen to this message and find new freedom and clarity in Christ!
God had a message from before creation. The message was Him and yet separate from Him. This message is the light of humanity. This message transforms our nature into His. It results in our being transformed into His Children. The message is Jesus.
John’s theme is the message from God for humankind – the word; it characteristics,mission, etc.
Fathers are absolutely essential if we hope to cultivate a healthy and successful society. Studies have proven this beyond any doubt. But this is just social science catching up with what the Bible already says once again. Dads are invaluable to our world. Listen to this message and gain a greater appreciation for fathers. Or, if you are a dad, listen and be affirmed regarding your intrinsic value as a father.
We were created with honor. (Psalm 8) That is why when you are being honored or dishonored you can feel it at the very core of your being. And that is why the enemy attempts to strip us of honor every day. But Jesus has come to restore our honor and commands us to honor one another. Listen to this message and learn how to partner with Jesus in restoring honor of those around you.
The key to lasting relationships is commitment. Christian commitment is learned in the relational crucible of the local church. The one another verses are God's tools for teaching us commitment to love.
Every mother needs to be encouraged! This message will do just that. Hope is a mother of six, a two-time cancer survivor, and is currently in a PHD program. She offers practical wisdom on how to stay focused, encouraged, and will inspire you to cultivate a deeper dependence on God for your journey. Listen to this message and you will find new strength, wisdom, and hope.
We all want our relationships to last. Broken relationships are painful and deeply disheartening. But Jesus taught and demonstrated how we can make our relationships last. Listen to this message and learn practical steps that will strengthen the relationships in your life.
A joyful life is one that is filled with life-giving relationships. This is what Jesus said, and He taught us how to do it! Listen to this message and learn what Jesus said will cause your relationships to be “filled with joy”.
God accomplished a hidden miracle at your conversion. He supernaturally created instant family. When you accepted Jesus you instantly belonged to Him but you also instantly belonged to all the rest of His children.
Why is Jesus called the Hope of the World? Three reasons: His Death, His Resurrection, and His Imminent Return.
Even if none of your hopes and dreams come to pass in this life, you still have what most people in the world don't have - eternal hope. And this is your primary purpose - to give this eternal hope to those who don't have it. Listen to this message and discover your purpose and practical, doable ways of sharing this hope with others.
People need people. This is a fact of life. And Jesus has created the most powerful community on Earth - His Church - and you are an important part of it! Listen to this message and discover how significant you are to the church, and how significant the church is to you!
The second source of our hope (the anchors of hope) comes from entering into the presence of God. There is a problem that comes when we use the phrase "entering into the presence of God". The Bible tells us that God is omnipresent which means He is always present everywhere at once, so we must be in His presence every moment of our lives. The real issue is not His presence but rather our awareness of His presence.
Where do you find your hope? You might be quick to say "in God", but it is when desperate times hit that the truth is revealed. Listen to this message and see how one man found his hope in God in a very desperate time and came out victorious
You can’t live life hopeless. Hope is the oxygen to your soul. Yet life has a way of knocking hope right out of our hearts, unless you are anchored in the hope of God. Listen to this message and regain your hope!
Once you experience God you want to experience more of God! But how do you do that? This message will help you discover the secret to experiencing more of God in your life.
Listen to this message from Jan Lenington about learning to walk in the Power of the Holy Spirit.
Did you know that Jesus was completely dependent on the Holy Spirit while He lived on Earth? That is how he lived such a supernatural life! And He wants you to be just as dependent on the Holy Spirit as He was. Listen to this message and discover the 5 reasons God wants you filled with His Spirit.
God never intended you to live life without His Holy Spirit. He did not create you to live life by your own strength. Life is hard and you are limited. But His Spirit is unlimited, can move mountains, and is available to you right now! Listen to this opening message and learn how to live a supernatural life!
God is doing a new thing in your life! God is always doing a new thing, He is the Creator, but He works in seasons. This is a new season for you. Listen to this message and be inspired to believe God for the impossible this year!
a guided meditation of the “Christmas Story” of being the child of the Innkeeper where Jesus was born. An experience of holding the baby Jesus. His new life in us is analogous to His entry into the world – as a vulnerable and powerless baby subject to the care of imperfect humans. We must protect His peace in all of our decisions and priorities. By protecting His peace we protect and make time for our relationship with Him from which comes all of our peace.
Jesus came to bring us peace as the Prince of Peace. So isn’t it ironic that the very season where we celebrate His birth brings the most stress and pressure. Listen to this message and learn how to enjoy Christmas again!
So often in Christianity we strive for God’s approval and acceptance. Yet the Bible teaches us that our worship of God is in response to experiencing His love. Listen to this message and move from duty to devotion.
A discussion of the Tabernacle and how its various parts contribute to the covenant with God.
We are called to be peace makers. What does that mean? It is possible because we have peace [unity] with God first. It proceeds from there to our closest family relationships. Then it goes outward to include our enemies. It starts with listening in order to understand. It avoids all slander and contentiousness.
There is nothing more important this side of heaven than telling people about the Good News. Listen to this message and be deeply inspired to spend your life sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Every election cycle one thing is consistently revealed – who we are putting our trust in. Is it man or God? Listen to this message and it will help you put your trust in the Lord!
Every election cycle one thing is consistently revealed – who we are putting our trust in. Is it man or God? Listen to this message and it will help you put your trust in the Lord!
Jesus wants His Church to be healing agents in our nation. Listen to this message and learn how you can be on Jesus' page during these trying times.
Many people don’t realize that evil, spiritual forces actually exist and are a part of our everyday lives. But they are. And yet, in Christ, we don’t have to fear. In fact, the Bible tells us to aggressively resist and overcome them. Listen to this message and learn how to effectively win spiritual battles!
Many people don’t realize that evil, spiritual forces actually exist and are a part of our everyday lives. But they are. And yet, in Christ, we don’t have to fear. In fact, the Bible tells us to aggressively resist and overcome them. Listen to this message and learn how to effectively win spiritual battles!
If God is all good and all powerful why is there evil? God is love, love requires freedom. Freedom means opting out of God’s goodness = evil. Our uniqueness which makes possible a unique relationship with God is the source of our self-awareness and our pride [rebellion from God] = human evil. Our evil is supercharged by supernatural evil – Satan. The cross is God’s answer to the existence of evil.
If God is all good and all powerful why is there evil? God is love, love requires freedom. Freedom means opting out of God’s goodness = evil. Our uniqueness which makes possible a unique relationship with God is the source of our self-awareness and our pride [rebellion from God] = human evil. Our evil is supercharged by supernatural evil – Satan. The cross is God’s answer to the existence of evil.
We all have our perceptions of who God is. But who is He really? Well, the Bible tells us in no uncertain terms that God is good, and that He is using His goodness to restore you. God’s goodness is intended to lead you to repentance. He is calling you home. He is bringing you back to your original design – a person made in God’s image.
Have you had negative experiences in church? We all have. But Jesus loves the church and he wants you to be an active part in helping it become what He designed it to be – the greatest force for good in the earth!
Life is hard. Jesus told us it would be. But He also promised that if we would remain faithful and finish our race that God would be glorified and we would be rewarded.
This is the testimony and story of Renee Murdock who suffered a brutal attack while in Brazil and God's ability to heal the nearly impossible injuries.
Your success is not a solo effort. All throughout your life God will add to your team key people to help you fulfill your call. Q. Do you recognize who these people are? Q. Are you open to their help? If you are you will be limitless.
Listen to Dennis Reanier talk about what's going on right now for Christians on the earth.
Paul raises a young man from the dead and later says goodbye to the elders from Ephesus. His life message is commitment and integrity. He lives radical commitment and total integrity even to the point of imprisonment and death. He confronts the false god’s of his culture. What are our false god’s?
Many times life's disappointments, distractions and deceptions tear down our relationship with God and derail us from the things He has called us to. Elijah had to "Repair the Altar of the Lord" before the fire of God fell. What areas of your relationship with God have been torn down that need to be repaired so you can once again experience the fire of the Lord?
Paul's two years in Ephesus. Paul contrast of power of God that flows from a relationship with him versus religious ritual.
Paul finds “disciples” who neither know the grace message nor the baptism of the Holy Spirit. He baptizes them into Jesus and then into the Holy Spirit. Their experience is one of power – it is supernatural. Is ours?
Is sharing the Good News with others difficult for you? Does it intimidate you? Read Acts 18 and listen to this message and let it inspire and empower you to share your faith in Christ with those in your life!
Dads work hard, and most dads always feel like they are falling short of being the dad they truly want to be. But everyone needs honor, and that is what Father’s Day is supposed to be about. So, if you are a dad, or if you want your appreciation for your dad to grow, listen to this message!
Paul’s pattern of evangelism is preach, persecution, supernatural display of power, church plant. The only time he abandons the power is when he is in his natural element – Athens and intellectualism. This approach fails and he goes to Corinth where he explains that from now on his preaching will be with a demonstration of the power of God. This is still necessary today.
Paul’s pattern of evangelism is preach, persecution, supernatural display of power, church plant. The only time he abandons the power is when he is in his natural element – Athens and intellectualism. This approach fails and he goes to Corinth where he explains that from now on his preaching will be with a demonstration of the power of God. This is still necessary today.
Do you ever feel so depressed and discouraged that you feel you just can’t go on. So did Paul. But what did he do that completely turned his situation around? Listen to this message and find out – it may turn yours around too!
Do you ever feel so depressed and discouraged that you feel you just can’t go on. So did Paul. But what did he do that completely turned his situation around? Listen to this message and find out – it may turn yours around too!
God’s primary passion is to save the world, and He does it through people just like you. Listen to this message and be inspired to make yourself available to be used by God!
The story of Simon is the first confrontation between the power of God through the Holy Spirit and demonic spiritual power. There are many lessons for us in this story.
The story of Simon is the first confrontation between the power of God through the Holy Spirit and demonic spiritual power. There are many lessons for us in this story.
Do you have trouble sharing your faith with your friends and family? Does it intimidate you at times? Listen to this message see how God orchestrates and we simply participate.
Easter changes everything. When Jesus rose from the dead He broke the power of death, not for Himself, but for you! Listen to this message and discover the four benefits of the resurrection!
Living from the inside out is the key to peace in this life. Our tendency though is to try to fix our inner world by chaning our outer world. But it doesn't work that way. Listen to this message and find the key to soul-peace.
The fear of the Lord is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the entire Bible. And yet it is found from cover to cover. It is also one of the most powerful truths that you need in your life to experience the greatest blessings from God and to shut the door on the enemy! Listen to this message and learn the blessings of the fear of the Lord.
The fear of the Lord is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the entire Bible. And yet it is found from cover to cover. It is also one of the most powerful truths that you need in your life to experience the greatest blessings from God and to shut the door on the enemy! Listen to this message and learn the blessings of the fear of the Lord.
So often believers don't know what God's will is for their lives. But Jesus made it plain in the very beginning of the Book of Acts. Listen to this message and find your purpose in God's Kingdom and the power to carry it out!
Background of the book of Acts, it's purposes and themes. The role of the Holy Spirit in the church.
Background of the book of Acts, it's purposes and themes. The role of the Holy Spirit in the church.
The Christian life is inherently inconvenient by God’s design. More than that, it involves sharing in Jesus’ suffering which we are to welcome. Missing out on our opportunity to become like Him is ultimate failure.
If you are following Jesus it will be apparent by the way you treat others. Jesus’ primary attribute is compassion. “God so loved the world…” Listen to this message and be inspired to show compassion everywhere you go and with everyone you meet.
If you are following Jesus it will be apparent by the way you treat others. Jesus’ primary attribute is compassion. “God so loved the world…” Listen to this message and be inspired to show compassion everywhere you go and with everyone you meet.
This life can be so confusing. For centuries mankind has been asking the questions, “Who am I?” “Why am I here?” “Where did I come from?” “Where am I going when I die?” Well, Jesus simplifies all of these questions with two simple words, “Follow Me.” Listen to this series of teachings and find the simplicity, the peace, the purpose, that comes from simply following Jesus.
God commands thankfulness, but why? It is for our health both mental, physical and relational.
Fulfilling Jesus command to love one another will require genuine relationships which will require transparency and vulnerability – honesty.
Fulfilling Jesus command to love one another will require genuine relationships which will require transparency and vulnerability – honesty.
In part 5 of our Growing Great Relationships series Paula Friedrichsen will be teaching a message called, A Love that Does Not Fail. One of the greatest ways to experience the depth and resolute nature of God’s love is to be put in the position to love the difficult ones. Those who you can’t simply break covenant with or “boundary” right out of your life. In this message receive tools and encouragement to love deeper, stronger, longer, and more authentically.
In part 5 of our Growing Great Relationships series Paula Friedrichsen will be teaching a message called, A Love that Does Not Fail. One of the greatest ways to experience the depth and resolute nature of God’s love is to be put in the position to love the difficult ones. Those who you can’t simply break covenant with or “boundary” right out of your life. In this message receive tools and encouragement to love deeper, stronger, longer, and more authentically.
We have all been offended. And we have all offended others. Satan uses the power of offense to bind the body of
Christ and keep us from experiencing the freedom and power God has placed in the church. Jesus on the other hand leads us to
forgive others, just as He has forgiven us, to shut the door on the enemy and release the power of God in our lives. When you
forgive you set the prisoner free, and that prisoner is you!
Our love for one another is our new identity as Christians, our proof that we belong to God, the proof to the world that we belong to God and the proof that Jesus is who He claims to be. God is most visible in the loving relationships we have for one another.
Jesus is not afraid of money. He also is not opposed to you having money, He just doesn’t want money to having you! Jesus has a great purpose for your life and money is a vehicle towards that purpose. But if we handle money poorly we will end up in bondage rather than freedom. Listen to this message and find out the purpose, power and path to being blessed so you can be a blessing!
Jesus is not afraid of money. He also is not opposed to you having money, He just doesn’t want money to having you! Jesus has a great purpose for your life and money is a vehicle towards that purpose. But if we handle money poorly we will end up in bondage rather than freedom. Listen to this message and find out the purpose, power and path to being blessed so you can be a blessing!
Stories are powerful, we learn through stories. But the question is, are we living our stories to the full? We can be tempted to be spectators of our own story instead of living it to the full. God invites us to grasp what He has to offer and let Him come into our story. What God is doing in us is truth incarnate. What if the next time you feel overwhelmed by life - whether pressures at work or family or even an internal sense of "I should be doing more... or I should just give up" you press in to see who God wants to be for you. STOP - Still your mind, Turn to God, Open your heart and Praise Him in awe and wonder.
Stories are powerful, we learn through stories. But the question is, are we living our stories to the full? We can be tempted to be spectators of our own story instead of living it to the full. God invites us to grasp what He has to offer and let Him come into our story. What God is doing in us is truth incarnate. What if the next time you feel overwhelmed by life - whether pressures at work or family or even an internal sense of "I should be doing more... or I should just give up" you press in to see who God wants to be for you. STOP - Still your mind, Turn to God, Open your heart and Praise Him in awe and wonder.
Jesus is inviting you, not into more performance, but into transformation via the kingdom coming upon you, or in you, and thus among us, so we can go way beyond the “rules” and into the life God intended for us from the very beginning – a life that is full of His love, power, hope, and eternal purpose. Listen to this message and find how Jesus never inteded us to live the life He exemplified for us by our own will power, but by the power of God's grace!
Mattew chapters 4-7 Jesus is inviting you, not into more performance, but into transformation via the kingdom coming upon you, or in you, and thus among us, so we can go way beyond the “rules” and into the life God intended for us from the very beginning – a life that is full of His love, power, hope, and eternal purpose. Listen to this message and find how Jesus never inteded us to live the life He exemplified for us by our own will power, but by the power of God's grace!
Father’s Day can be a difficult day for many, not only for those who didn’t have the best relationship with their dad, but for dads who feel like they are falling short. But if we recognize that God is our heavenly Father, earthly fathers can experience His heavenly provision, helping them be better dads than they ever thought they could be, and those with hurts can experience His Fatherly healing.
Father’s Day can be a difficult day for many, not only for those who didn’t have the best relationship with their dad, but for dads who feel like they are falling short. But if we recognize that God is our heavenly Father, earthly fathers can experience His heavenly provision, helping them be better dads than they ever thought they could be, and those with hurts can experience His Fatherly healing.
The gospel of the kingdom is not another religion but salvation, healing, freedom and forgiveness. Jesus brought the kingdom of God to the earth and into our lives.
The gospel of the kingdom is not another religion but salvation, healing, freedom and forgiveness. Jesus brought the kingdom of God to the earth and into our lives.
We are prone to self deception by nature. Why do we fear the truth about our sin and our weaknesses? 6 reasons.
We are prone to self deception by nature. Why do we fear the truth about our sin and our weaknesses? 6 reasons.
because we have all failed, bear the shame of our failures we cling to Jesus' grace. But did you know that in the very same scripture that says Jesus brought us grace it also says He brought us truth? listen to this message and find out why complete freedom only comes through embracing both His grace and truth.
The Christian faith is not a “blind faith”. Our faith is based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ which has a tremendous amount of evidence to support it. Listen to this message and learn how your faith is not just subjective but also rational.
The Christian faith is not a “blind faith”. Our faith is based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ which has a tremendous amount of evidence to support it. Listen to this message and learn how your faith is not just subjective but also rational.
Apart from Grace no one can come into the presence of God and live. Because of his holiness he is unapproachable. Grace gives us undeserved access not only into his presence but into his family.
Apart from Grace no one can come into the presence of God and live. Because of his holiness he is unapproachable. Grace gives us undeserved access not only into his presence but into his family.
Grace has always been God's plan for man. This message focuses on Heaven and how God's plan is Eternal Grace.
God gave the law as a consequence of the people rejecting intimacy with Him at Mt. Sinai. When you reject a relationship of intimacy with God but keep His holiness you end up living under the law, without the indwelling power of God to keep it.
Many of us do not equate God with pleasure. Yet the Bible says that that God has given us all things richly to enjoy. The Bible also says the joy of the Lord is our strength. Listen to this message and allow God to restore your joy!
Many of us do not equate God with pleasure. Yet the Bible says that that God has given us all things richly to enjoy. The Bible also says the joy of the Lord is our strength. Listen to this message and allow God to restore your joy!
As followers of Jesus we not only have the greatest hope in the world, we are called to bring this hope to a hopeless world.
As followers of Jesus we not only have the greatest hope in the world, we are called to bring this hope to a hopeless world.
How do we become Children of God? How is our deepest nature changed? What is the role of the Holy Spirit?
Do you live with a certain degree of spiritual insecurity with God? If so, God wants you to be rid of that insecurity and learn that He loves you and accepts you just as you are. Listen to this message and find yourself effortlessly growing closer to God.
Do you live with insecurity in your relationship with God? If so, you shouldn’t. God loves you as deeply as any parent loves their own child. In fact, Jesus introduced a whole new dimension in our relationship with God when He called him, “Abba” which literally means, “Daddy”. Listen to this message and allow your fears to be replaced with a deep, satisfying trust.
Have you lost your joy? It is very difficult to live this life without joy, and it is not God's will for you! This message explores 5 Biblical sources of joy and gives you practical steps on how to get it back!
Have you lost your joy? It is very difficult to live this life without joy, and it is not God's will for you! This message explores 5 Biblical sources of joy and gives you practical steps on how to get it back!
Have you lost your joy? It is very difficult to live this life without joy, and it is not God's will for you!
This message explores 5 Biblical sources of joy and gives you practical steps on how to get it back!
Have you lost your joy? It is very difficult to live this life without joy, and it is not God's will for you! This message explores 5 Biblical sources of joy and gives you practical steps on how to get it back!
Have you lost your joy? It is very difficult to live this life without joy, and it is not God's will for you! This message explores 5 Biblical sources of joy and gives you practical steps on how to get it back!
Seeing our sin [what we are by nature – rebellious and self-willed] is a work of God. This means that it is dangerous to go hunting for our sin. The Devil brings condemnation regarding our sin. The Holy Spirit brings conviction. The difference is between hopelessness and despair on the one hand and joyous freedom and appreciation for God’s love and forgiveness on the other. Repentance brings joy.
The repentance necessary to enter into God’s world is not merely remorse over bad actions, it is much deeper. The changed thinking that Jesus is calling for is a change from seeing sin as behavioural to seeing it as a relational problem between oneself and God. Sin is independence from our Creator.
Life can seem hopeless at times. But when you invite Jesus into your situation it will never be hopeless. Listen to this inspirational Easter message and let God’s hope fill your heart!
Life can seem hopeless at times. But when you invite Jesus into your situation it will never be hopeless. Listen to this inspirational Easter message and let God’s hope fill your heart!
Beyond submission to leaders who occupy positions of authority in our society the Bible also calls us to submit to one another [mutual submission]. This means an openness to receiving correction that is only possible when living in the affirming acceptance of the unconditional love of God.
God has called you to be a blessing to the world. So what does that look like? How can you do that? Believe it or not, it begins with your mouth! Listen to this message and learn about the power to bless that you already possess!
God has called you to be a blessing to the world. So what does that look like? How can you do that? Believe it or not, it begins with your mouth! Listen to this message and learn about the power to bless that you already possess!
Do you ever look at your past and see it as mostly negative? If so, listen to this message and learn how you can see God in your past and cause it to empower you for your future!
Have you ever wondered why the Holy Spirit seems to be so strong in your life at certain times but at other times not so much? It could be that you need to ask yourself three simple questions. Listen to this message and learn how you can stay filled with the Spirit!
Many followers of Jesus get stuck trying to hear from the Holy Spirit and discern his leading. Listen to this message and it will truly free you up to be led by the Holy Spirit!
Some of the Holy Spirit’s most powerful, supernatural work is done in some of the most natural ways. Listen to this message and watch your faith increase in how the Holy Spirit is working in your life!
Some of the Holy Spirit’s most powerful, supernatural work is done in some of the most natural ways. Listen to this message and watch your faith increase in how the Holy Spirit is working in your life!
Does operating in supernatural signs and wonders intimidate you? Do you feel it is for the special few but not for you? If so, this message will build your confidence that God uses ordinary people, just like you, to do extraordinary things!
Does operating in supernatural signs and wonders intimidate you? Do you feel it is for the special few but not for you? If so, this message will build your confidence that God uses ordinary people, just like you, to do extraordinary things!
Have you ever felt like living the life that Jesus lived is impossible? Well, you would be right. It is. In fact, Jesus, though He was the Son of God, said that He was completely dependent on the Holy Spirit to fulfill God’s will! Listen to this message and see how He is our example of how to successfully live life with the Holy Spirit.
Have you ever felt like living the life that Jesus lived is impossible? Well, you would be right. It is. In fact, Jesus, though He was the Son of God, said that He was completely dependent on the Holy Spirit to fulfill God’s will! Listen to this message and see how He is our example of how to successfully live life with the Holy Spirit.
God never intended us to live life without the power, provision and presence of His Spirit. The Holy Spirit was at the beginning of creation and He is found in the last chapter of the Book of Revelation. Jesus told us that when He left, He would send us His Holy Spirit. Join us on this journey of discovering Life with the Holy Spirit.
Are there things in your life you want to achieve? Do your desires for change and growth ever feel stunted or blocked. Shell Cowper-Smith shares her journey through trials into a closer relationship of living in Christ.
Have you had times, seasons, trials in your life that were so hard that finding joy was literally impossible? We all have. But joy is just something we cannot live without. Trials can zap us of our joy – difficult people, offenses, money struggles, unpleasant job situation, illnesses… but the Book of Philippians teaches us how to have joy even in the midst of trials! Listen to this message and find how to have hope and joy during hard times.
Have you had times, seasons, trials in your life that were so hard that finding joy was literally impossible? We all have. But joy is just something we cannot live without. Trials can zap us of our joy – difficult people, offenses, money struggles, unpleasant job situation, illnesses… but the Book of Philippians teaches us how to have joy even in the midst of trials! Listen to this message and find how to have hope and joy during hard times.
Grace is not "amazing" until we know the depth of our sinful nature. Listen to this sermon by Associate Pastor Mark Cowpersmith and hear his powerful testimony
Grace is not "amazing" until we know the depth of our sinful nature. Listen to this sermon by Associate Pastor Mark Cowpersmith and hear his powerful testimony
Do you struggle knowing knowing how to raise your kids to love God? Listen to this message and you will not only hear some practical steps towards connecting your kids to God, but you will also find hope.
Do you struggle knowing knowing how to raise your kids to love God? Listen to this message and you will not only hear some practical steps towards connecting your kids to God, but you will also find hope.
Do you have trouble understanding young people today? They are actually not that complicated. They have a few very basic needs that if understood and met, you will gain their hearts. Listen to this message, begin applying the truths, and you will quickly begin seeing positive signs in your relationship with your kids.
Do you have trouble understanding young people today? They are actually not that complicated. They have a few very basic needs that if understood and met, you will gain their hearts. Listen to this message, begin applying the truths, and you will quickly begin seeing positive signs in your relationship with your kids.
Is there really a great grace reformation sweeping the Church today, or is it more of a hyper-grace deception? Find out why some believers today are running from the words of Jesus, mistaking the beauty of holiness for the bondage of legalism, even accusing their brothers and sisters of being destructive Pharisees. In this seminar you will learn what the Scriptures really say about God’s glorious grace and learn how this wonderful biblical doctrine has been dangerously distorted in our day.
Dr Michael L. Brown is the founder and president of FIRE School of Ministry in Concord, North Carolina director of the Coalition of Conscience, and host of the daily, nationally, syndicated talk radio show, The Line of Fire, as well as the host of the Jewish-outreach, documentary TV series, Think It Thru, which airs internationally on the INI network.
Listen to the worship leaders at The Gathering Place Church teach on Worshiping in Faith.
Do you believe we have lost the next generation? Do you believe it is impossible to reach teens with the gospel? We don't, and we are! Listen to this powerful message by the youth Pastor at GPC and see how God is reaching and transforming the lives of teens!
Have you lost the joy you once had in Jesus? This message will re-introduce you to Jesus and restore the joy of salvation in your life!
The way heaven releases its goodness into the earth is through the Word of God at every turn. God speaks, we believe and heaven comes. This is why Satan refutes the Word of God at every turn. Our universities are full of hatred towards the Word of God and its principles. That is why Christians must know, trust and declare the Word of God!
The way heaven releases its goodness into the earth is through the Word of God at every turn. God speaks, we believe and heaven comes. This is why Satan refutes the Word of God at every turn. Our universities are full of hatred towards the Word of God and its principles. That is why Christians must know, trust and declare the Word of God!
Have you ever worked and worked at a problem without it changes much? We have to remember that our weapons are not natural, but powerful in God. You may not be using your full arsenal available to you! Listen to this message and see how God brings victory in our lives.
Have you ever worked and worked at a problem without it changes much? We have to remember that our weapons are not natural, but powerful in God. You may not be using your full arsenal available to you! Listen to this message and see how God brings victory in our lives.
COMMUNICATION – it’s all about gender! Before we look at these gender differences I want to remind you that all of us have both masculine and feminine gender traits within us. We are a mixture of these traits so we must not judge ourselves or others [including our mates] as against some absolute standard. As I said before, there is no perfectly masculine man, nor perfectly feminine woman. Such a person would be inhuman. We really do need one another.
Bob and Claudia Maddux, John and Hope Ettore and Mark and Shell Cowper-Smith answer questions that were submitted during the marriage seminar from participants.
It is much easier to do something successfully when you know why you are doing it. Until I see a nail being used to hold two pieces of wood together I really have no idea what a hammer is. Until I understand its purpose a hammer is really just a dangerous weapon. Even when someone explains to me how to use a hammer it remains useless until I understand that its purpose is to build a home. Marriage is just like that – a potentially dangerous thing until I understand what its purpose is and how to use it properly. So we will start with the purpose of marriage. Marriage has several God planned purposes. The foundational purpose of marriage has to do with the nature of God and the deepest purpose of human life.
God’s Design for man and women is so awesome, so my question – how do we get on board? The first question we need to ask is What or Who is charging you? The problem in the garden wasn't Eve's Divine DNA - but her source. Who or what is your source – both guidance and fuel.
What does God require of you? Discussion of Micah 6:8 and how it applies in the mission of "Hope For The Nations".
Provision, finances, faith, answered prayer
Do you struggle believing God for your needs to be met? Do you think God is reluctant, or or even limited in His ability to meet your needs? If so, this message will bolster your faith and cause you to walk in greater peace as we set our eyes on "Jehovah Jireh, the Lord Will Provide!"
Heather Nunn shares her journey in God with the women of GPC on a special Saturday Worship time.
Our world view tells us that our worth and identity comes from what we do. Our orientation affects our prayer. This is a type of prayer that focuses on “being” with God not for the sake of getting something done, but for the sake of the relationship itself.
Do you have a problem receiving God's forgiveness? Do you live with shame? Do you feel like God is always disappointed with you? If so, listen to this message and learn where shame comes from, how to break it and live out your God-given destiny!
Do you have a problem receiving God's forgiveness? Do you live with shame? Do you feel like God is always disappointed with you? If so, listen to this message and learn where shame comes from, how to break it and live out your God-given destiny!
Within each of us there is a "crowd" and "disciple" mentality. The crowd just wants things instantly and only hangs around as long as it is gratifying. The disciple will stick with things through the long haul. Where do we get the power if we want to be a disciple?
Within each of us there is a "crowd" and "disciple" mentality. The crowd just wants things instantly and only hangs around as long as it is gratifying. The disciple will stick with things through the long haul. Where do we get the power if we want to be a disciple?
Do you lack vision? Do you ever wonder what God's will is for your life? This sermon will help you clarify exactly what God wants you to be doing with your life, and will inspire you to become a part of a local body of believers who are committed to making a difference for God.
Most of us jump into life, and even our future, without the One who knows our future. Why not begin this year with the One Who knows what's up ahead?
As we learn who we are and our purpose in this life, it is crucial to know the Power in our lives. Mark teaches about the Holy Spirit's role in the Christian life as seen in the book of Ephesians.
Do you understand the power of praise? Are you aware that we were all created to worship something and when we have a lifestyle of worshiping the living God, He is released to show His glory! Do you want to go to the next level in worship? Our four GPC worship leaders share their passion for worship. You will be challenged and changed! John 4:24 (in spirit and truth)
Jonathon has been a guest speaker at our School of the Supernatural and brings a powerful message and impartation. He is a fifth generation believer and exhibits extraordinary wisdom as a teacher. He helps individuals discover fresh experiences of kingdom realities. Even those who have grown up in the church are challenged afresh as they hear the unique perspective that Jonathon carries. Jonathon has earned two Masters Degrees, one in Biblical Studies and the other in Practical Ministry, as well as the National Herald of Christ award. Jonathan's first book, "The School of the Seers: A Practical Guide on How to See into the Unseen," released in 2009, is receiving world-wide attention.
Are you aware of how powerful the Word of God is? God's Word created the world, and thus it has the power to change it too! When the Word of God is in your heart and you pray it and say it with faith, it can move mountains!
There are two parts to repentance, one that we do and one that He does. Listen here for the second part of the repentance series.
What does it really mean to repent? True repentance? Listen to Pastor Mark and find out...
Jesus said the yoke he has for your life is easy and his burden is light. If you are finding your life hard and heavy, you probably aren't lined up with God's will for your life. Listen to how you can connect with God and balance your life.
Do you need peace? Slowing down and living at God's pace is the key. listen and learn how.
God has more to give to you, but you may be moving too fast to get it. Listen and be challenged to slow down and connect with God.
Do you have a hard time hearing God's Voice? He's speaking to you. Learn how to hear him more clearly.
Do you have a hard time hearing from God? Do you feel like everybody else can hear but you? The truth is, God is speaking today, and he is speaking to you! Listen to this sermon and learn how to hear him more clearly.
God desires that we know the freedom He offers. Holding onto an offense keeps us from knowing complete freedom and causes broken relationships with others and with God.
In order to know God's will, we must focus on knowing, obeying and following Him. We must give Him control of our lives - with no divided loyalties.
God communicates to us in many ways. Many times God is speaking but we just don't recognize it.
Holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, but they can deteriorate into a time of stress. Is this what God wants? Learn how to enjoy your holidays again.
As a follower of Jesus, you are part of the most divine community on earth, the body of Christ.
Forgivenss is critical for your emotional, mental, spiritual and sometimes physical health. But forgiveness is so hard to do. Need help?
Why should you forgive when you have a right to be angry and bitter. Here are a few good reasons.
being dishonored is one of the most debilitating experiences in life. Having your honor restored is essential for a life of victory. Yours can be.
You can be told God loves you, but how can you really know? Love is only known when it's shown, and God has, and is showing you every day.
You are God's sheep and he has given his life for you. You are eternally special to him. Listen to this incredible description of a real earthly shepherds care for his sheep and you will begin to get a picture of your Shepherds care for you!
knowing who you are is the age old question that profoundly effects all of us. God has settled this issue in Christ! The key isn't in knowing "who you are" but in "whose you are!"
What is church supposed to look like? Where is the line between spontaneity and structure when we meet?When we are at our best, we discover God has granted us just the right balance of freedom and responsibility. This is how this church works. When it does not work, it is usually because someone embraced the freedom of the covenant but forsook the implied responsibility to work together as the whole community of Christ's church.
We run from dead air. Silence is terrifying. We do everything to avoid silence. Our noise is a place to hide – we don’t have to think when there is distraction – don’t have to look at our fears, our pain – don’t have to look inside and don’t have to spend time with God. But God continues to call His people to a place of stillness.
One day you sit down to DO your prayers, you sit like you sat the day before, the same passage, the same place and you are expecting, fill me up, cuddle me, go for it. Then, nothing. “God you are a little late, perhaps You are in China, perhaps you are…..” You start to panic. The first thing you think is, what have I done wrong?
This particular type of prayer os about abiding – not to accomplish anything – not about a breakthrough or to get something done – not a prayer of activity or power – nothing more than relationship with your heavenly Father – about being instead of doing – we all pay lip service to that – but we don’t live that way – we live like we are human doings. So much of our prayer is about what we feel we should be accomplishing for God. We get our worth and value from what we accomplish.
Silence is terrifying. We do everything to avoid silence. Our noise is a place to hide – we don’t have to think when there is distraction – don’t have to look at our fears, our pain – don’t have to look inside and don’t have to spend time with God because we are afraid of what He will say to us – we don’t like ourselves