What did you do?
Today we are going to take a look at a man that was in an impossible situation and how he came through it victoriously!
How does God restore a person and/or country?
Today were going to look at the cycle of what happens when we do evil in the sight of God and how God restores a person and/or a nation.
Today we’re going to see how a woman’s faith in God produced actions that saved both her and her family from imminent death.
Today we are going to look at what Jesus had to say about end times the week before He was brutally crucified.
Today we’re going to look at authority, by who’s authority we do things and who has the authority over our lives.
Today we're going to see a picture of the glory of Jesus (Who He is) and how He can transform your life.
Today we’re going to look at why people don’t understand what Jesus is trying to teach them.
Today we’re going to look at what Jesus said about those who think they’re going to heaven but may be mistaken!
Are you a Christ follower?
Today we are going to look at the behaviors Jesus gives us to identify what a true follower of His looks like?
Think of a time when you were tempted to sin and gave in to the temptation.
Why did you fail?
How do you live your life?
What has influenced you to live the way you do?
Today we’re going to look at how we are to live and how we are to be influenced and how we are to parent our children.
Today we’re going to look at how God feels about those who don’t believe Him, are disobedient and the consequences of those actions
Today we are going to look at how we can have a successful journey in life and have all that God wants us to have!
Today we’re going to look at a man who is having a difficult time with people that are hurting him and how he handles it.
Today we are going to look at why everyone needs to be forgiven and why we should forgive others who have wronged us!
Today we’re going to take a look at a man who sinned, how he felt about his sin and what he did.
Today we’re going to take a look at what God did for David and as we do that, think about what God has done for you!
Do you control your life or is it your spouse, your job, a hobby, or something else that causes you to do what you do. Today we will look at who should control your life and why.
Today we're going to look at a practical method that will help you in your decision-making process.
Today we're going to look at the return of Jesus, the amazing characteristics of God and how that should encourage us in our walk with Jesus!
Today we're going to look at our Christian life, how we grow, and the qualities that we demonstrate to those around us.
Today we're going to look at what it means to be humble and how to know if that is one of my character traits.
Today we're going to look at what God has to say about how spouses are to relate to each other!
Today we're going to look at what God has to say about how we as believers are to treat those in government and others!
Today we're going to look at how your life changes depending on where you get your identity.
What do you do when you are facing difficult circumstances and maybe feeling down?
Today we're going to look at what we should do when we face difficult circumstances.
Today we're going to look at what God promises us if we follow His statutes and faithfully observe his commands!
How do you plan to atone for your sin?
Today we're going to look at what we must do to atone for our sin.
How do you deal with your fears?
Today we're going to look at how to deal with our fears.
Today we’re going to look at why God delivered an oppressed group of people and what He required of them.
Today we’re going to look at what it means if God is the Lord and how that can impact your life!
Today we’re going to look at the benefits of giving up control of your life to your creator.
Today we’re going to look at a man who persecuted Christ followers and how and who he shared his story?
Today I want you to ask yourself questions about if and how you came to put your faith and trust in Jesus!
Today we are going to look at a man that was facing extreme circumstances and what purpose he was committed to!
Today we are going to look at what what the bible says about the reality of demon posession.
Today we are going to look at what it means to “be devoted” and how that impacts our lives.
Today we are going to look at what is looks like to have a plan to share Jesus, NOT MISSING ANY OPPORTUNITY.
Today we are going to look at two pivotal figures that had a serious disagreement and how they kept it from becoming a disaster.
How do we solve problems that divide us?
Today we are going to look at a serious problem and how they worked toward a solution.
Today we are going to look at the passion of two men and how their passion effected their life.
Today we are going to look at what may happen if we share the Good News of Jesus with those we love and those we come into contact with!
Are you aware that God has set you apart for His plan and purpose for your life? Today we are going to look at how God’s plan involved sending people on mission.
Today we’re going to look at a man that was stuck in wrong beliefs and how a teachable moment changed everything.
Today we’re going to look at a man that had serious issues and how his main objective in life changed.
Today we’re going to look at a man that had serious issues with Jesus and how those issues were resolved.
Today we’re going to look at men who were treated badly for telling the truth about what they saw and experienced and how they responded!!
Today we see we’re going to look how to share Jesus with people that God has put in our lives.
How does one become a Christian?
Today we see we’re going to look how a person becomes a Christian.
Today we see we’re going to look at the Holy Spirit, who He is and what His purpose is.
Today we see we’re going to look at a 30-year-old man and see who is in control of his life!
Today we see we’re going to look at a young man who does the right thing and ends up in jail! That’s just not right or is it!
oday we see we’re going to look at a young man who is going through a very difficult time in his life.
Today we see we’re going to see how you know the mighty power of God involved in your life!
What is an encounter with God?
How do you know if you had a true encounter with God?
Today we see we’re going to look at an encounter a man had with God and what happened to him.
Today we see we’re going to look at a man that is learning how to unlock the blessing from the Lord God!
Today we see we’re going to look at one of God’s leading families who manipulated and deceived to get their way and how that worked for them.
Why does God test His followers?
Today we see we’re going to look at one of God’s most loyal followers and what happened when God gave him the biggest test of his life!
Today we see we’re going to look at what happens when we make bad decisions and how we can keep from doing that!
Today we see we’re going to look at covenants that impact our lives and the responsibility of each party.
Today we are going to look at God’s character and how we can be sure to receive His blessing.
DOES GOD’S PLAN MATTER?
Today we are going to look at God’s plan and how it can impact our lives
Did you ever wonder why you do what you do? Today we are going to look at why we do what we do and how we can do better!
If you do what should your response be to Him?
Today we are going to look at how what you believe about creation shapes your world view!
Today we are going to look at the resurrection of Jesus and the difference between believing Jesus existed and being surrendered to Him!
How do you express your gratitude to Jesus for what He did for you? Today we are going to look at the crucifixion of Jesus and what He endured for you and me!
Today we are going to look at the struggle that goes on when the battle of the wills is presented!
Today we are going to look at what may stand in the way of your relationship with Jesus!
If you were arrested for being a follower of Jesus, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Today we are going to look at what Jesus teaches about what it looks like to be a true follower of Him!
See what Jesus says it means to be His follower? Today we look we’re going to look at the behaviors and characteristics of a true follower of Jesus!
Today we look we’re going to look at the behaviors and characteristics of a true follower of Jesus!
Take a minute and think about that and come up with an honest answer.
Today we’re going to look at some different answers to that question!
Today we look we’re going to look at the only authority that can correctly govern your life!
Today we look we’re going to look at the one who introduced Jesus to the world and how it changed EVERYTHING!
Today we look we’re going to look at the at what happens when we have loss in our lives and how we can best handle it.
Today we look we’re going to look at the HOW Christ followers can cope with today’s challenges.
Today we look at what happens to a country when they disregard the message from the Lord.
How do we receive the blessing of God?
Today we look at a contrast of two different people groups and why one group received God’s blessing.
What is your plan to get to heaven?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT FROM ME?
WHAT IF I DON’T OBEY GOD?
Today we look at the God plan for those who turn to Him!
Do you believe God has a plan for your life?
How do you learn God’s plan for your life?
Today we look at the how we find God’s plan for our life!
Today we look at what shapes the life of a Christ follower and what shapes the life of our country
Why is church attendance dropping to record lows?
Today we look at why the church is having problems and is becoming less effective!
Today we’re going to look at a man that was asked that question 3 times and how he responded.
How did that make you feel? Today we’re going to look at people that had something happen that they were not expecting, and how they responded.
Today we’re going to look at what Jesus says is the only way a person can get to heaven
Today we’re going to look at why people refuse to repent of their sin and ask Jesus to save them
Today we’re going to look at how Jesus dealt with a person “caught in sin” and what we need to do with our sin.
Today we’re going to look at what Jesus has to say about who He is and why we need to follow Him
Today we’re going to look at what Jesus says about how to go to heaven and spend eternity with Him. Where are you going to spend eternity?
Today we’re going to look at why people should put their faith and trust in Jesus alone for salvation and what it means to have an “intimate, personal” relationship with Him
Today we’re going to look at Jesus and who He is and why He is the most important figure in history!
Today we’re going to look at what happens when a person makes a promise to God and doesn’t follow through.
Today we’re going to look a man who receives an object lesson from God involving “Faithfulness”
Today we’re going to look at what seeking God looks like and what happens when we don’t seek God
Today we’re going to look at how God held a nation accountable that choose to disobey Him!
Today we’re going to look at what a young leader did that got God’s attention and the blessing he received
Today we’re going to look at what a leader did when his world was falling apart and how it turned out
Today we’re going to look at what happened to countries that in the past that went into a downward spiral
Today we’re going to look what happens when you ask someone to do something, and they don’t do it
GREAT FOR LEADERS, FOLLOWERS, PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS
Today we’re going to take a look at four men and how they handle and remarkable situation they were in
Today we’re going to take a look at a man who was in an impossible situation and the chain of events that made the impossible, possible
Today we’re going to take a look at a man who just came off a mountain top experience and what happened when his life became hard.
Have you ever put God to the test?
Today we’re going to take a look at how a man put God to the test by challenging a world leader and his people!
How do you know if you are giving or getting good advice?
- Today we look at a leader that received advice from two groups of people, what he did and what happened.
Today we look at one of the greatest leaders of all time and how the people he associated with impacted his life and the choices he made.
Today we look at the difference between repentance and forgiveness and how that applies to every human being
Today we take a look at a world leader who was asked that question by God, and what the correct response was and why?
Today we look at what the Bible says about death and what the future holds for those who die
Today we look at different ways people live their lives and the benefits of doing it God’s way
How do people respond to troubles in their lives?
Today we are going to look at people that experienced tremendous difficulties and how they responded
What are some things that affect how we see our future?
Today we are going to look at differing views about the future and find out what your view is and why?
Today we look at why a Christ follower would be persecuted for his or her faith in Christ
Today we are going to look at a group of people and answer the question, “What is a Christian”?
Do you wish you had someone to tell you what it meant!
· Today we look at what it means to be spiritually alive verses spiritually dead and how that impacts our goals for 2022
Today we look at what the difference is between being “religious” and a Christ follower
Today we look at everything you always wanted to know about forgiveness but were afraid to ask!
Today we discuss what success means to different people and how to have a true long term successful life!
Today we look at the secret of living in every situation, whether you have plenty of little.
Today we look at how we can battle anxiety and live a life of joy, having a peace that passes all understanding
Today we look at how we can be an influencing factor and create unity within our sphere of influence
Today we look at a man who has suffered more as a Apostle for Christ than possibly anyone. He is currently in a horrible situation and can witness how he handled it. We will see his mindset in going through this most difficult time of his life.
How would you describe your prayer life?
· Non-existent
· I call on God when I need something
· I talk to God a few times a day
· I have a close intimate relationship with God in a daily quiet-time and maintain my communication with Him throughout the day for the most part
3. What kind of prayer life do you want?
· I’m fine the way it is now
· I want to do better
· I need an extreme overhaul and desire a close intimate relationship with God
Today we look at the importance of having a balance in our lives and receive insight from the wisest man to ever live!
Today we talk a look at the wisdom of taking good advice, what is good advice, and what happens when we choose not to seek advice.
Today we look at the importance of time and receive insight from the wisest man to ever live!
The wisest, wealthiest, most powerful man of his time give us his thought on the meaning of life from the perspective of a man that had everything and more!
Today we look at the conclusion of how Job handled losing everything and how God intervened!
Today we look at a man who questioned God and how God responded to him! (A MUST WATCH IF YOU EVER QUESTIONED GOD OR KNOW SOMEONE THAT DID!)
Today we address the differences between earthly wisdom and Godly wisdom. A MUST WATCH/LISTEN IS YOU WANT TO MAKE THE WISEST DECISIONS!
Today we look at the most amazing response from a man in the toughest time of his life. A MUST WATCH BECAUSE YOU: WENT THROUGH ADVERSITY, ARE GOING THROUGH ADVERSITY NOW OR WILL BE GOING THROUGH ADVERSITY IN THE FUTURE!
Today we look at a man who was described by God as, “he was blameless-a man of complete integrity” who lost everything and how he responded to his friends and God.
Today we look at how to handle the most difficult tragedy’s in life as we look at a man that lost it all and how he responded.
Today we look at two Christ followers that are disillusioned, confused and don’t know what to think about Jesus. Is it enough just to believe in Jesus? What does Jesus have to do with eternity?
We discuss answers to this critically important question. We must be be 100% certain as eternity is a long time!
In this session Paul describes the basics of what it means to be a TRUE CHRIST FOLLOWER. Christ followers make a difference in their families, neighborhoods, work places, and other groups where they associate!
This week we look at how Peter handled tremendous disappointment and fear and how he regrouped after abandoning his best friend!
Paul tells us the details involving the next big event that will affect the entire world. A must watch for all Christ Followers
· In this session we discuss the importance of consistent fervent prayer as modeled by Jesus as He willingly submitted to the cross to pay the debt we could not pay. He suffered so we could have eternal life with Him!
Paul instructs Christ followers how to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Jesus prepares His disciples for coming events and officiates the first communion. Jesus gave His body and shed His blood for me (use your name), so that I might have life and have it more abundantly and gave me a way to spend eternity with Him!
Jesus at times taught in parables to allow us to think about eternal truths. Today we looked at the "Parable of the Wicked Tenants" where Jesus tells us about the fate of those who reject Jesus's gift of salvation!
CHRIST FOLLOWERS HAVE WORK TO DO!
Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
We discuss what made the church at Thessalonica unique and 5 key qualities of fail-proof spiritual leadership. How not to be lead astray in these challenging times!
* How can I know my purpose?
How well does God know me?
How do I know the level of my faith?
* What does faith have to do with eternity?
· Why should I praise Jesus?
· What are evidence’s of praise?
· What does the Bible tell us about praising Jesus?
· How do some religious people pray?
· How do some religious people treat others?
· What does Jesus say about those who are thought to be insignificant?
• If you had the ability to change one decision you made, what would it be?
• How would that affect your life?
• How can you make better decisions going forward?
• Did you ever try to justify your actions?
• Have you asked God tough questions?
• What do you think God wants from you?
• What do people think they have to do to go to heaven?
• What are some misconceptions of how we get to heaven?
• What does the Bible have to say about heaven?
• Who do you think He is, really?
• Who did Jesus say He was?
• What did the teachers and leaders of religious law think about Jesus?
• Why does God heal some people but not others?
• What is the reason people get sick?
• What is more important, physical healing or spiritual healing?
• What was the most difficult situation you have been in?
• What did you learn by going through that situation?
• What is your greatest concern right now?
• What would your life have changed if you made different decisions?
• How will my decisions going forward affect my life?
• What is the biggest decision you have or will ever make?
• What should I do with those who hate me?
• How should I react to those who hurt me?
• What does Jesus tell His followers to do?
· What will happen to people that are simply going through the motions?
· What is evident in a person who has decided to follow Jesus?
· What does producing “Good fruit” mean?
As a 12 year old, how did Jesus impact the religions world?
What does growing spiritually look like?
How my priorities impact my goals?
· Do I believe God cares about what’s important to me?
· Do I pray enough?
· Why should I never stop praying?
· What is the next event according to the Bible?
· What is the Millennium?
· What changes are there going to be on planet earth?
· How do these events impact my life?
►Who or what gives you comfort when facing a seemingly impossible situation?
►Have you ever felt frustrated when doing something you knew God wanted you to do?
►Do you ever think about the power of God and His control over all things when you are facing difficulty?
What is keeping you from growing spiritually?
What do you put your trust in?
Where is God in all that's going on today?
What does it mean to produce fruit as a disciple of Jesus?
How can you identify a Christ follower?
How you can become a more effective Christ follower.
Does God Really Hear Your Prayers?
PRIORITIES OF A DISCIPLEFollowing Jesus means living a life that reflects His character and prioritiesJohn 13:34 - So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.
John 14:12 - “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father
John 13:15 - I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you
1 Peter 2:21 - For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps
Galatians 4:19 - Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I’m going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives
1 Corinthians 11:1 - And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ
Jesus calls every person to follow Him
What comes to mind when you hear someone say they are a follower of Jesus?
What do you think is required of a fully-devoted disciple of Jesus?
What does it mean to be sovereign?
God is the supreme authority and all things are under His control.
1.Omnipotent: Having unlimited Power, able to do anything
2.Omniscient: Knowing everything
3.Omnipresent: Everywhere at the same time
Do you believe God is sovereign?
Do you believe God has a plan for your life?
THIS SESSION WILL ADDRESS THESE TOPICS AND MANY MORE!
Isaiah saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. 2 Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3 They were calling out to each other, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!” 4 Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke
Solomon details his engagement and marriage to the Shulammite woman. They express their feelings and desires for each other
Proverbs 31 is one of the most interesting chapters in the Bible on the "Attributes of a Wife of Noble Character"
Following God’s wisdom leads to joy, while failing to do so leads to grief
Study Passage: Proverbs 14:8-15
King Solomon gives his sons life lessons on how to have a happy marriage
Proverbs 4:11-27
**Focus: God provides direction to those who place their trust in Him
Insights you can take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?**
REASONS NOT TO DESPISE DISCIPLINE
Romans 15 - "Reach"
Insights you can take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?
“Accepting”
Focus: Believers should accept and encourage other believers to facilitate unity
Context Passage: Romans 14:1-15:13
Study Passage: Romans 14:1-12
Insights you can take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?
Focus: Believers should seek to represent Christ well in their communities and world
Romans 13 - Study Passage: Romans 13:1-14
Insights you can take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?
“Sacrifice”
Focus: Believers are to demonstrate Christlike character by presenting their bodies as a living sacrifice
Context Passage: Romans 12:1-21
Study Passage: Romans 12:1-2,9-18
Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Christian Ethics
9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. 10 Love one another deeply as brothers and sisters. Take the lead in honoring one another. 11 Do not lack diligence in zeal; be fervent in the Spirit; serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; be persistent in prayer. 13 Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes. 18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.What insights can you take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?
“Mercy”
Focus: The gospel continues to be offered to all people, Jews and Gentiles
Context Passage: Romans 11:1-36
**Study Passage: Romans 11:17-32
Insights to strengthen your walk with Jesus?**
“Saved”
Focus: Salvation has always been granted through faith in Jesus
Context Passage: Romans 9:1-10:21
Study Passage: Romans 10:5-15
5 since Moses writes about the righteousness that is from the law: The one who does these things will live by them. 6 But the righteousness that comes from faith speaks like this: Do not say in your heart, “Who will go up to heaven? ”that is, to bring Christ down 7 or, “Who will go down into the abyss?” that is, to bring Christ up from the dead. 8 On the contrary, what does it say? The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart. This is the message of faith that we proclaim: 9 If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, (1) Everyone who believes on him will not be put to shame, 12 since (2) there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, because the same Lord of all richly blesses all who call on him. 13 For (3) everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
14 (1)How, then, can they call on him they have not believed in? (2) And how can they believe without hearing about him? (3) And how can they hear without a preacher?15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.
Focus: All who accept the gospel have a sure hope for a future as children of God
Context Passage: Romans 8:1-39
Verses 1-11 tells us that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. We are set free from the bondage of sin because Jesus was our sin offering in order that the law’s requirement would be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Those that have not put their faith in Jesus for salvation have their mind set on things of the flesh while those that have put their faith and trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of sins have their minds set on the things of the Spirit.
THE MINDSET OF THE FLESH IS DEATH (SPIRITUAL)
BUT THE MINDSET OF THE SPIRIT IS LIFE AND PEACE
Study Passage - Romans 8:12-25
12 So then, brothers and sisters, we are not obligated to the flesh to live according to the flesh, 13 because if you live according to the flesh, you are going to die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead, you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “Abba,[i] Father!” 16 The Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and coheirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation eagerly waits with anticipation for God’s sons to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility—not willingly, but because of him who subjected it—in the hope 21 that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage to decay into the glorious freedom of God’s children. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. 23 Not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the firstfruits—we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24 Now in this hope we were saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? 25 Now if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience.
“Raised”
Focus: Salvation comes through Jesus’ death and resurrection
Context Passage: Luke 24
Study Passage – Luke 24:1-12
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb. 3 They went in but did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothes. 5 So the women were terrified and bowed down to the ground.
“Why are you looking for the living among the dead?” asked the men. 6 “He is not here, but he has risen!Remember how he spoke to you when he was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘It is necessary that the Son of Man be betrayed into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and rise on the third day’?” 8 And they remembered his words.
9 Returning from the tomb, they reported all these things to the Eleven and to all the rest. 10 Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them were telling the apostles these things. 11 But these words seemed like nonsense to them, and they did not believe the women. 12 Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. When he stooped to look in, he saw only the linen cloths. So he went away, amazed at what had happened.
Study Passage - Romans 6:1-14
What should we say then? Should we continue in sin so that grace may multiply? 2 Absolutely not! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Or are you unaware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we were buried with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness[a] of life. 5 For if we have been united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be[b] in the likeness of his resurrection. 6 For we know that our old self[c] was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin[d] might be rendered powerless so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin, 7 since a person who has died is freed[e] from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him, 9 because we know that Christ, having been raised from the dead, will not die again. Death no longer rules over him. 10 For the death he died, he died to sin once for all time; but the life he lives, he lives to God. 11 So, you too consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.[f]
12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey[g] its desires. 13 And do not offer any parts[h] of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God, and all the parts of yourselves to God as weapons for righteousness. 14 For sin will not rule over you, because you are not under the law but under grace.
The Theme of Romans
**The gospel is the power of God for salvation and radically changes the lives of all who put their faith in Christ Jesus. Paul’s passion for the gospel is seen from the opening verse to the closing of the letter. He had been set apart to proclaim the gospel to unbelievers. The same gospel would strengthen believers in Rome
Study Passage - Romans 5:1-11**
5 Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, (1)we have peace[a] with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 We have also (2) obtained access through him by faith[b] into this grace in which we stand, and (3)we rejoice[c] in the hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, 4 endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. 5 This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For rarely will someone die for a just person—though for a good person perhaps someone might even dare to die. 8 But God proves his own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 How much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by his blood, will we be saved through him from wrath. 10 For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, then how much more, having been reconciled, will we be saved by his life. 11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received this reconciliation.
“Justified”
Focus: All who accept the gospel by faith are justified before the Father
Context Passage – Romans 3:21-4:25
The Theme of Romans
The gospel is the power of God for salvation and radically changes the lives of all who put their faith in Christ Jesus. Paul’s passion for the gospel is seen from the opening verse to the closing of the letter. He had been set apart to proclaim the gospel to unbelievers. The same gospel would strengthen believers In Rome
Study Passage - Romans 3:21-4:3
The Righteousness of God through Faith
21 But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, attested by the Law and the Prophets. 22 The righteousness of God is through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe, since there is no distinction. 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. 24 They are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. 25 God presented him as an atoning sacrifice in his blood, received through faith, to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his restraint God passed over the sins previously committed. 26 God presented him to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so that he would be righteous and declare righteous the one who has faith in Jesus.
Boasting Excluded
27 Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By one of works? No, on the contrary, by a law of faith. 28 For we conclude that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. 29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too, 30 since there is one God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. 31 Do we then nullify the law through faith? Absolutely not! On the contrary, we uphold the law.
Abraham Justified by Faith
4 What then will we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has found] 2 If Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about—but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him for righteousness.
What insights can you take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?
· We are all sinners in need of a savior
· Most people believe they are good enough to get into heaven
· We are justified by faith not by works
· We need to tell people our story about how we came to Christ and what we had to overcome to do that
Focus: Since no one can keep the law perfectly, everyone needs a savior
Context Passage – Romans 2:17-3:20
The Theme of Romans
The gospel is the power of God for salvation and radically changes the lives of all who put their faith in Christ Jesus. Paul’s passion for the gospel is seen from the opening verse to the closing of the letter. He had been set apart to proclaim the gospel to unbelievers. The same gospel would strengthen believers in Rome
Study Passage - Romans 2:17-29
Now if you call yourself a Jew, and rely on the law, and boast in God, 18 and know his will, and approve the things that are superior, being instructed from the law, 19 and if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light to those in darkness, 20 an instructor of the ignorant, a teacher of the immature, having the embodiment of knowledge and truth in the law— 21 you then, who teach another, don’t you teach yourself? You who preach, “You must not steal”—do you steal? 22 You who say, “You must not commit adultery”—do you commit adultery? You who detest idols, do you rob their temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? 24 For, as it is written: The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.
25 Circumcision benefits you if you observe the law, but if you are a lawbreaker, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. 26 So if an uncircumcised man keeps the law’s requirements, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision? 27 A man who is physically uncircumcised, but who keeps the law, will judge you who are a lawbreaker in spite of having the letter of the law and circumcision. 28 For a person is not a Jew who is one outwardly, and true circumcision is not something visible in the flesh. 29 On the contrary, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision is of the heart—by the Spirit, not the letter. That person’s praise is not from people but from God.
What are some things that you are really good at”?
How close to perfect are you in those areas?
In what ways do you fall short?
Who is God speaking to in verse 17?
“IF” CAN ALSO MEAN “SINCE”
a. Call yourself a Jew, rely on the law, boast in God, know His will, have discernment, instructed by the law, a guide for the blind, light to those in darkness, instructor of the ignorant, teacher of the immature, believed they were the embodiment of knowledge and truth,
How would you describe how the Jew felt about themselves? (Superior attitude, better than everyone else)
What’s missing here? (A humble loving attitude, walking the talk)
Who would Paul be talking to today? (All Christians both Jew and gentile)
Look at verse 21. What is Paul saying? (If you think this way of yourself shouldn’t you act like it?
Paul continues with rhetorical questions: You who preach, “You must not steal”—do you steal? 22 You who say, “You must not commit adultery”—do you commit adultery? You who detest idols, do you rob their temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? What point is Paul driving home? (Their walk did not back up their talk)
WE SAY WE ARE PEOPLE OF FAITH, BUT IN THE LIGHT OF THIS PANDEMIC WE ARE FACING, ARE WE LIVING OUT OUR FAITH. WHAT SHOULD WE BE DOING?
2 Chronicles 7:14
if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
President Trump declared on Friday a National Day of Prayer for this upcoming Sunday, shortly
KEY LEARNINGS FROM LESSON TEN
Three Archangels mentioned in Scripture
Ezekiel 28:12-15 - “‘You were the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald, topaz, onyx and jasper, lapis lazuli, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings[c] were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared. 14 You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones. 15 You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you.
“Guilty”
Ignoring God leads to destruction
Context Passage – Romans 1:18-2:16
The Theme of Romans
The gospel is the power of God for salvation and radically changes the lives of all who put their faith in Christ Jesus. Paul’s passion for the gospel is seen from the opening verse to the closing of the letter. He had been set apart to proclaim the gospel to unbelievers. The same gospel would strengthen believers in Rome
Study Passage - Romans 1:18-28:32
What might a person turn to in his or her search for meaning? (chart answers)
How would you rank the items you listed from most tried to least?
Who is God’s wrath revealed against? (against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people)
a. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 - I now rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because your grief led to repentance. For you were grieved as God willed, so that you didn’t experience any loss from us. 10 For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly grief produces death.
Who are unrighteous? (For all have sinned)
When you were to ask 100 people on the street, (If you were to die today where would you go”, how do you think most people would answer that? (to heaven)
When you ask them why, what do you think they would say? (because I’m a good person)
What’s the problem with that answer? (they don’t believe they need to repent)
How would you respond to a person that said they were a good person?
Why does God say that people are without excuse in verses 19-23?
a. His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen in creation
10. What aspect of God reveal the most about God to you?
11. How could you use that revelation to help other know God?
12. What are the characteristics of a person that has not truly repented and asked Jesus to save them? (Verses 21-25 – CHART)
13. Why do people serve man-made “gods” rather than honor the Lord?
14. How would you convenience people that they need to repent and turn to God? (tell them your story)
15. What happens to people that refuse to acknowledge God in verses 24-28?
16. According to verse 32, what do people know about God?
17. What do people do that are unrepentant? (applaud other who don’t do what is right?
What insights can you take away to strengthen your walk with Jesus?
· God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against ungodliness
· God is revealed in creation
· Everyone need to repent and come to God through Jesus or there will be extreme consequence
King Belshazzar is partying with 1,000 of his nobles and desecrating the gold and silver goblets that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken from the temple in Jerusalem. A hand appears on the wall and begins to write stopping everyone in their tracks. The fall of Babylon begins as Daniel is summoned to reveal the meaning of the writing on the wall.
King Nebuchadnezzar has another troubling dream that Daniel interprets with a warning for the King. King Nebuchadnezzar does not heed Daniel's advise and God teaches the King a life lesson with the 7 year "time out" as he goes out of his mind. It is not until the King "Raised his eyes toward heaven" that his sanity was restored. King Nebuchadnezzar closes the chapter by stating, "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble". WOW, WHAT A TESTIMONY!!!
Key Learning's From Lesson Two
The Book of
Daniel
Introduction/Chapter 1
Key learnings from our lesson tonight
“Walking to Battle”
Focus: God provides believers with all the resources needed to live Christlike lives
Study Passage - Ephesians 6:10-20
Christian Warfare
10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens. 13 For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. 14 Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, 15 and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. 16 In every situation take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit—which is the word of God. 18 Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. 19 Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. 20 For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough to speak about it as I should.
Was there a time in your life when you repented of your sin and asked Jesus to save you?
Were there changes in your life after you made that commitment?
Ask yourself, “Are there changes that need to take place now in my walk with Jesus?”
Are you a casual Christian or Fully committed Christ follower?
The sanctification process is falling more in love with Jesus everyday
SALVATION IS FREE BUT SANCTIFICATION TAKES A LIFETIME AND IS HARD
Where does our strength come from? (The Lord)
a. 1 John 4:4 - You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Why should we put on the Full Armor of God? (So we can stand against the schemes of the devil-THIS IS THE 1ST TIME PAUL STATES THIS)
What are these schemes? (anything to make us ineffective in our walk with Jesus)
What are some examples of the devil’s schemes? (group discussion)
According to verse 12, what is our struggle against? (Not people “flesh and blood”, but demonic forces under the direction of Satan)
It doesn’t mean Satan won’t use people, but that Satan is the source of our struggle
a. Why does Paul tell us again? (This is of utmost importance in the Christian life)
b. How much of the armor should we put on? Why?
c. What reasons does verse 13 give us? (so that I can resist the devil and HAVING PREPARED EVERYTHING to take a stand!)
7. What ha
God destroys the universe and creates a new heaven and new earth! Those that confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in their hearts that God raised them from the dead will be with God in His dwelling place for ever and ever. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. Jesus will, "Make everything new". There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever with the Lord. Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
After a moving time of praise and worship in heaven, Jesus and the armies of heaven followed Him as He came to earth on a white horse and struck down the nations that rejected Him. The Antichrist and False Prophet were captured and thrown alive into the lake of fire. Jesus seized the dragon, who is Satan and bound him for 1000 years in the pit and shut it and sealed it over him. Those that were martyred and those that did not receive the mark on the foreheads or hands reigned with Christ for 1,000 years.
At the end of the 1,000 year reign of Jesus, Satan was loosed, gathered all the non-believers, surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. Fire from heaven came down from heaven and consumed them. Satan was thrown into the lake of fire where along with the Antichrist and False Prophet, remained for ever and ever.
Everyone who's name was not written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
If you are not 100% sure where you will spend eternity, now is the time to REPENT OF YOUR SINS AND ASK JESUS TO SAVE YOU.
If you are 100% sure that your name in in the book of life, you need to invite as many people as you know to join you in the Kingdom of God for ever and ever!
Romans 10:9-10 -If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
The governments and religions of the world ally themselves with the Antichrist and reject Jesus's offer of salvation. The domain of darkness lead by Satan turns on the governments and religions of the world before he (Satan) is defeated
Revelation 17:14 - They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”
Kingdom of God
Father, Son (Jesus), Holy Spirit, Angels
OR
Domain of Darkness
Satan, Antichrist, False Prophet, Demons
Babylon: Refers to the entire worldwide political, economic, and religious kingdom of the Antichrist
Great harlot: Idolatry or apostasy: abandonment or renunciation of a religious or political belief
Scarlet beast: The Antichrist
7 heads and 10 horns: Antichrist’s political alliances
Fornication: Spiritual prostitution to the Antichrist’s false system
Unfaithful to God
Harlotry: False devotion
Blasphemy: Changing what God has done, false religion
Beast: Final world government
NEXT WEDNESDAY
Lesson 11
Christ and His Kingdom
Revelation 19:1-20:15
144,000 Jewish evangelist protected by Jesus to preach the gospel to the world
The Two Witnesses evangelizing the world
3 angels bringing messages to the world
With all of this light some come to a saving knowledge of Christ but most do not repent and become more and more angry and continue to curse God.
The 7 Bowls of Wrath
The Revelation of Jesus Christ-The Christian’s Ultimate Victory7 - The Two Witnesses - Revelation 10:1-11:19
Moses & Elijah???
War in Heaven between Archangel Michael and former Archangel Satan (formally Lucifer)
8 - The Terrible Triumvirate - Revelation 12:1-13:18
Antichrist, False Prophet, Satan
4 Categories of Non-Repentance
Murders - Even prior to birth. The pagans respected the womb. Abortion was punished by death
Sorcery - Use of drugs to dull the senses for seances, witchcraft, and cavorting with mediums
Fornication - sexual intercourse between people not married to each other.
Theft - Institutional theft, stealing of your property, socialism is the worst kind of theft
Revelation 9:20
The rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk.
Luke 24:47 - and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Acts 2:38 - Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 3:19 - Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
Acts 20:21 - I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.
Revelation 3:19 - Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.
Acts 1:8 - But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Matthew 28:18-20 - Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 6:33 - But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
2 Corinthians 1:9 - Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.
The Revelation of Jesus Christ - The Christian’s Ultimate Victory
The Divine Outline
Revelation 1:19
Write the things which you have seen
The Vision of Christ Chapter 1
And the things which are
The Seven Churches Chapters 2, 3
And the things which will take place after this
Which Follows After the Churches Chapters 4-22
Key Verses From Week 1
1:3 - Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near.
Application to All Churches
Ephesus – Devotion, not just doctrine-neglected devotion
Smyrna – Endure persecution – Satanic opposition
Pergamos – Purify your ambassadorship-spiritual compromise
Thyatira – Abandon Pagan practices
Sardis – Watchfulness, Diligence
Philadelphia – Missionary/Evangelistic
Laodicea – Prosperous compromise with the world
Personal Application – ME!
Ephesus – Neglected Priorities
Smyrna – Persecution-We will suffer for Jesus
Pergamos – Avoid Worldly Compromise
Thyatira – Flee Pagan Practices
Sardis – Be Watchful and Diligent
Philadelphia – You are an ambassador of Jesus Christ
Laodicea – Repent and be Committed
Repentance:
Definition - to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one's life
Acts 2:38 - Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Isaiah 59:20 - “The Redeemer will come to Zion, to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,” declares the Lord.
Ezekiel 14:6 - “Therefore say to the people of Israel, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Repent! Turn from your idols and renounce all your detestable practices!
Ezekiel 18:32 - For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!
Matthew 4:17 - From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
Mark 1:4 - And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Luke 13:3 - I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.
Luke 15:10 - In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
Luke: 14X, Acts: 10X, Revelation: 10X
Old Testament: 24X, New Testament: 54X
The Antichrist - “Instead of Christ”
Lesson 6 - God’s Trumpets - Revelation 8:1-9:21
The 7 Trumpets
1st Trumpet – Hail & fire-Third of the trees and green grass burned up
2nd Trumpet – Large asteroid hits the sea third to blood, creatures, ships
3rd Trumpet – Star falls from heaven, 1/3 rivers bitter, many men die
4th Trumpet – 1/3 of sun, moon and stars struck-earth darkened
5th Trumpet – Satan falls from heaven, given the key to the bottomless pit to loose the demons to torcher mankind for 5 months
6th Trumpet – Four fallen angels are loosed along with 200 million demons to kill 1/3 of
The Revelation of Jesus Christ - The Christian’s Ultimate Victory
Sesson 5
Opening of the Seals, Start of the 7 year Tribulation, Enter the Antichrist, 144 Messianic Jews
Revelation 6:1-1:17
Wrath noun
Definition of wrath
1: strong vengeful anger or indignation
2: retributory punishment for an offense or a crime : divine chastisement
Revelation 6:17 - For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”
Lesson 5
Opening of the Seals
Revelation 6:1-1:17
The Antichrist
“Instead of Christ”
NEXT WEDNESDAY
God’s Trumpets
Revelation 8:1-9:21
The Revelation of Jesus Christ
The Christian’s Ultimate Victory
Revelation
“The Unveiling”
· The consummation of all things
· The only book in the Bible that promises a special blessing to the reader
· 404 verses containing over 800 allusions from the Old Testament
· It presents the climax of God’s Plan for you and me
Revelation 1:1-3
· The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
The Divine Outline
Revelation 1:19
Write the things which you have seen
o The Vision of Christ Chapter 1
· And the things which are
o The Seven Churches Chapters 2-3
· And the things which will take place after this
o Which Follows After the Churches Chapters 4-22
Personal Application
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches”
· Ephesus – Neglected Priorities
· Smyrna – Satanic Opposition
· Pergamos – Avoid Worldly Compromise
· Thyatira – Flee Pagan Practices
· Sardis – Be Watchful and diligent – Wake up!
· Philadelphia – We are ambassadors of Jesus
· Laodicea – Repent and be Committed
Lesson 4
A Vision of Christ in Heaven
Revelation 4:1-5:14
Seven Raptures
Harpazo – Caught up/snatched up
· Enoch Gen 5:42, Heb 11:5
· Elijah 2 Kings 2:1, 11
· Jesus Mk 16:19, Acts 1:9-11, Rev 12:5
· Phillip Acts 8:39
· Paul
Revelation
“The Unveiling”
· The consummation of all things
· The only book in the Bible that promises a special blessing to the reader
· 404 verses containing over 800 allusions from the Old Testament
· It presents the climax of God’s Plan for you and me
The Divine Outline
Revelation 1:19
· Write the things which you have seen
o The Vision of Christ Chapter 1
· And the things which are
o The Seven Churches Chapters 2, 3
· And the things which will take place after this
o Which Follows After the Churches Chapters 4-22
How to Study!
· Set aside quality time
· Start with prayer asking God to guide you
· Read the book of Revelation
· Read the chapter - Review notes in margin
· Answer the questions that you can
· Come back to the questions you didn’t answer
Levels of Application
· Local – Real churches with real problems
· Admonitory- ALL churches everywhere
· Homiletic-(Personal) Applies to each of us to some degree
· Prophetic-The order they are in they lay out a history of the church
Seven Design Elements
· The name of the church
· Title of Christ chosen
· Commendation
· Concern
· Exhortation - (Emphatically urging)
· Promise to the overcomer
· Message to all of us-He that has an ear to hear
Application to All Churches
· Ephesus – Devotion, not just doctrine-neglected devotion
· Smyrna – Endure persecution – Satanic opposition
· Pergamos – Purify your ambassadorship-spiritual compromise
· Thyatira – Abandon Pagan practices
MESSAGE TO THE CHURCHES (Part 2)
Revelation 3:1-22
|Application to All Churches
· Ephesus – Devotion, not just doctrine-neglected devotion
· Smyrna – Endure persecution – Satanic opposition
· Pergamos – Purify your ambassadorship-spiritual compromise
· Thyatira – Abandon Pagan practices
· Sardis – Watchfulness, Diligence
· &
The Christian’s Ultimate Victory
HAVE YOU EVER ASKED JESUS TO SAVE YOU?
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.
Revelation 3:20
Key Verses From Week 1
How to Study!
Statistics on Prophesy in the Bible
Many in Revelation
MESSAGE TO THE CHURCHES
(Part 1)
Revelation 2:1-29
Seven Design Elements
Overcomer’s Promises
Overcomer’s Promises
Application to All Churches
NEXT WEDNESDAY
MESSAGE TO THE CHURCHES (Part 2)
Revelation 3:1-22
The Revelation of Jesus Christ
The Christian’s Ultimate Victory
± Revelation of Jesus Christ: Comes from the Greek word apokalypsis and means “an uncovering,” “an unveiling,” or “a disclosure.”
± Letters from Jesus to Christians at 7 churches in Asia Minor (Modern day Turkey)
± Written simplistically by a first century Jewish fisherman
± The Jewish mindset: God says what He means and means what He says
± In order to understand the book of Revelation you need to understand the Old Testament. Of the 404 verses in Revelation, 275 refer to the Old Testament
± It’s the only book in the Bible that promises a blessing to those who read it
± It’s a book of wrath, judgement, hope, grace, justice, victory, a wedding, happily ever after
± It’s a book of severe warnings
± John was commissioned to write down what he saw and distribute to the 7 churches listed in chapter 1
± Apocalypse: Catastrophic End crisis of the present age and spectacular reappearance of the King of Kings, King Jesus to reign forevermore
± Revelation is a “Book of “SEVENS”
± Revelation presents the climax of God’s plan for man
± Apocalypse: Catastrophic End crisis of the present age and spectacular reappearance of the King of Kings, King Jesus to reign forevermore
± Revelation is a “Book of “SEVENS”
± Revelation presents the climax of God’s plan for man
Presuppositions
v God means what He says and He says what He means – Literal interpretation of scripture unless it’s a metaphor or figure of speech
v The Bible is an integrated whole. Every detail is there by design. Matt 5:17, 18
v Nothing in the text is trivial. Rom 15:4-For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Author John the Apostle
v Exiled by the Romans to the small, barren island of Patmos
v Received a series of visions that laid out the future history of the world
v Revelation’s primary contribution is to eschatology, that is, the doctrine of last things
v The futuristic approach insists that the events of chapter 6-22 are yet future and that those chapters literally and symbolically depict actual people and events yet to appear on the world scene. It describes the events surrounding the second coming of Jesus Christ (Chs. 6-19), the Millennium and final judgement (ch. 20) and the eternal state (cha 21 and 22). Only this view does justice to Revelation’s claim to be prophesy and interprets the book by the same grammatical-historical method as chapters 1-3 and the rest of scripture
± Statistics on prophesy in the Bible - Many in Revelation
° 8,362 prediction verses
° 1,817 predictions
° 737 separate matters
THE ULTIMATE ISSUE
± We are in possession of a message of extraterrestrial origin
± It portrays us as objects of an unseen warfare
± Our eternal destiny depends upon our relationship with the ultimate victor in this cosmic conflict
± Where do you stand with respect to this?
How to study!
± Set aside quality time
± tart with prayer
± Read the book of Revelation through this week
± Read the chapter to be studied