Anchor Church (GA): Recent Episodes
Anchor Church
Church plant located in Augusta (Evans), Georgia. Our Mission: We exist to connect each person to Jesus, His Word, and His Mission. Our Vision: Our desire is that each person in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) would have Jesus as The Anchor for their soul. You matter to God, and everyone needs an anchor.
In this episode of the Anchor Church Podcast, we hear a powerful farewell moment from the Apostle Paul in Acts 20. After years of fruitful but costly ministry, Paul knows suffering lies ahead—and he may never see his beloved Ephesian leaders again. So he stops in Miletus to pour out his heart. What follows isn’t just a message—it’s a legacy. Like a soldier’s final letter home, Paul’s words carry weight, urgency, and deep love. He reminds them—and us—what matters most: living well, leading faithfully, guarding the flock, and finishing the race. This week, Pastor Brandon walks us through one of the most emotional and instructive scenes in Acts, showing that what you build with your life is determined by what you’re willing to give away.
Podcast Title: "Adaptation"
Scripture: Acts 20:3–12
Speaker: Pastor David
Description:
In this inspiring sermon from Acts 20:3–12, Pastor David reminds us that in God, we have power—the power of persistence, perseverance, and purpose. Through the story of Paul’s unwavering commitment and the miraculous revival of Eutychus, we are called to focus our hearts and lives on the One who gives us strength.
With encouragement from John 11:11, Colossians 1:9–12, and Ephesians 4:22–23, this message speaks to the deep truths of the Christian life:
- The magnitude of our focus is the altitude of our persistence.
- Perseverance says “I can,” resilience says “I did.”
- The grip of the Shepherd is always stronger than the stumble of the sheep.
We are reminded that in the Gospel, there is a purpose to serve (Mark 10:45), and that serving is a form of worship. But to walk in God’s power, we must first believe in His power.
Whether you're feeling weary or wondering what’s next, this message will stir your faith and refocus your heart on the power that comes from God alone.
Conflict is inevitable—but how we lead through it makes all the difference. In this episode, we explore the biblical account of Paul’s experience in Ephesus and draw out practical wisdom for navigating turbulent times with clarity and conviction. Discover the three parts of every conflict—the reason, the recognition, and the resolution—and learn how to lead with love, forgiveness, and truth at the core.
We’ll dive into key Scriptures like Ephesians 3:17 and John 3:16–18, and reflect on what it means to be aligned with the Way, not just stuck in our way. With insights on effective communication, godly connection, and the freedom found in forgiveness, this episode is for every leader seeking divine guidance in the heat of struggle.
Whether you’re facing conflict at work, home, or within your church, this conversation will equip you to lead with grace and truth in the midst of it all.
In this powerful message from Acts 19:8–20, Pastor Brandon walks through Paul’s ministry in Ephesus—a city saturated with spiritual darkness, superstition, and false power—and shows how the name of Jesus proved to have no rival. Through mighty miracles, counterfeit exorcists, and radical repentance, we see that God’s power not only overcomes every stronghold but also demands our full surrender. This episode challenges us to burn the bridges back to sin, confront the false powers in our own lives, and trust in the unmatched authority of Jesus.
In this message from Acts 18:23–19:7, Pastor Brandon unpacks how the gospel doesn’t just save us—it shapes us and sends us. As Paul begins his third missionary journey, we see a model for Spirit-empowered discipleship: strengthening what’s been started, sharpening what’s sincere, and clarifying what’s confused. Through Paul’s care for growing believers, Priscilla and Aquila’s humble guidance of Apollos, and the transformation of confused disciples in Ephesus, we’re reminded that discipleship isn’t about perfection—it’s about formation. When the gospel is fully understood, faithfully lived, and humbly passed on, it multiplies. This message challenges us to stop coasting on past moments and step into deeper growth—both for ourselves and for others.
Guest Speaker Dusty Wammack (Discipleship Pastor-Quest church) joins us to examine closely how faithful discipleship changes lives. Join us in Acts 18:1-22.
In this episode, we journey with the Apostle Paul into the heart of Athens—a city full of idols, intellect, and spiritual curiosity. As we explore Acts 17:16–34, we see a powerful example of how to share Jesus in a world that’s searching for hope but following faulty directions. Paul’s heart was broken, not hardened, by the spiritual confusion he encountered. Rather than retreating, he leaned in—with love, clarity, and conviction.
Through Paul’s approach, we learn what it means to see the city clearly, speak the gospel to culture, and call people to come near to God. Even today, in a culture filled with conflicting voices and counterfeit truths, God is not far from those who seek Him. Whether you’re exploring faith or learning how to share it, this message reminds us that the gospel still speaks—and invites everyone to come close.
Join us for this powerful conclusion to our Family Matters series at Anchor Church, titled "Legacy Impact: Legacies of the Patriarch & Matriarch." In this sermon from Hebrews 11:7-26, Pastor David Kang explores how the biblical patriarchs and matriarchs shaped their families' faith legacies by:
- Being obedient to a Holy God.
- Imparting the Holy Word of God.
- Trusting in the holiness of God.
Discover how figures like Noah, Isaac, Sarah, and Moses exemplified obedience, impartation, and trust, leaving lasting spiritual legacies. You'll learn practical ways to apply these principles in your family, embracing your unique role in building a godly legacy, regardless of your family background.
Listen and be encouraged to set a legacy of grace, rooted deeply in Christ’s blueprint for your family.
Podcast Title: Family Matters (Week 2) – Disciple-Making Homes: God’s Plan for Family Discipleship
Text: Deuteronomy 6:4–9; Ephesians 6:1–4
Date: May 18, 2025
Series: Family Matters: God’s Blueprint for Building a Godly Home
Description:
What does it look like to raise children who genuinely know and follow Jesus? In this message, Pastor Brandon unpacks God's call for parents to lead their families with intentional, everyday discipleship. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6 and Ephesians 6, we discover that family discipleship isn’t about being perfect or having all the answers—it’s about faithfully showing up and pointing your children to Christ.
You’ll learn:
- Why family discipleship begins with your own love for God.
- How everyday moments—mealtimes, car rides, bedtime routines—can become opportunities for shaping faith.
- The role of both parents and children in a grace-filled, Christ-centered home.
Family discipleship isn’t a program—it’s a lifestyle. Tune in and be encouraged to make your home a place where the gospel is seen, heard, and lived.
🔑 Big Idea: God calls parents to lead their homes with intentional, everyday discipleship that helps children know and follow Jesus.
🛠️ Practical. Relational. Transformational. Let this episode equip you to lead your family on mission—right where you are.
Family Matters (Week 1) – God’s Blueprint: The Family According to His Design
Description:
In this first message of our three-week mini-series Family Matters: God’s Blueprint for the Family, our Lead Pastor Brandon Henson-walks us through the origin, purpose, and redemption of the family according to Scripture. Preaching from Genesis 2, Deuteronomy 6, Ephesians 5, and Galatians 4, we discover that the family is not a cultural invention—but God's creation, designed with intentionality and purpose. From the garden of Eden to the gospel of Jesus, the family is meant to reflect God’s love, order, and mission in the world. Whether you're single, married, raising kids, or healing from brokenness, this message reminds us that through Christ, every family can be restored and reclaimed for God’s glory and our good.
In the finale of our STORY series, “Homecoming: Back to the Garden,” we explore Revelation 21 and 22 and discover the breathtaking hope of God’s ultimate promise—a new heaven and a new earth. This message reminds us that the end of the Bible mirrors the beginning, but better: no more curse, no more pain, and God's presence fully restored. We’re invited to see how the whole story of Scripture leads to this moment of renewal and reunion with God. Through the tension of the “now but not yet,” we hold to the promise that God is making all things new, dwelling with His people forever, and giving us life that never ends. This is the home we were made for.
Episode 9 – The Church | THE STORY Series
This week, Pastor David continues our journey through THE STORY with a powerful sermon titled "The Church."Drawing from Ephesians 4, Matthew 16, and other key passages, we explored the biblical foundation and purpose of the church.
What does it mean for Jesus to be the cornerstone? Why is unity in Christ so essential? And how is the church meant to be more than a spiritual “parking lot”—but a launching pad for mission and growth?
In this episode, you'll hear about:
- Christ as the cornerstone and head of the church
- The call to unity and sound doctrine
- The church’s function to re-equip, re-energize, and renew
- Why gathering together matters now more than ever
Whether you're deeply rooted in church life or just exploring, this message offers both encouragement and a challenge to be anchored in Christ and activated in purpose.
On this Easter Sunday, Pastor Brandon walks through the powerful story of the road to Emmaus in Luke 24, where two discouraged disciples encounter the risen Jesus—but don’t recognize Him at first. In this message titled “Resurrection: The Story Comes Alive,” we explore how Jesus meets us in our confusion, walks with us in our questions, and gently reframes our understanding through the truth of Scripture. From heartbreak to hope, the journey of these two disciples reminds us that the resurrection isn’t just the ending of the story—it’s the moment everything comes into focus. Whether you’re a longtime believer or still figuring things out, this message will encourage you to see Jesus more clearly and let your heart burn with resurrection hope!
Welcome back to our series entitled, "The Story," a sermon series designed to help you navigate and experience the BIG STORY of the Bible. In our 6th chapter, we examine...
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The Man (Incarnation)
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The Messiah (King Jesus)
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The Ministry (All Authority)
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The Message (The Kingdom)
Join us in the 4th week of our 10-week series entitled: THE STORY. Pastor David explores the chapter we are calling, "RESCUE." God has heard the cries of His people, sees their suffering, and takes action as the Promise Keeper He is.
Podcast Description: "The Promise"
In this episode, we dive into Genesis 12 and 15 to explore God’s incredible promise to Abram—a covenant that would shape the course of history and ultimately point to Jesus.
We begin by looking at Abram’s calling and the promise God gives him in Genesis 12:1, where he is commanded to leave everything familiar and trust in God's plan. Then, we see God’s reassurance in Genesis 15:1-6, where Abram, struggling with doubt, is reminded that God’s word is unwavering and His promises are sure. Finally, we unpack the covenant made with Abram in Genesis 15:7-18, a powerful moment where God Himself guarantees the fulfillment of His promises.
Join us as we uncover the faithfulness of God, the significance of His covenant, and what this promise means for us today!
Join us for our #2 episode in our new series, "The Story," as we see God’s glory and grace throughout the third chapter of Genesis.
Sermon Outline:
1. The Trip
2. The Fall
3. The Aftershock
4. The Rescue.
We want everyone here to truly grasp THE STORY—the grand, sweeping narrative of God, His magnificent Creation, His unshakable Covenant, and above all…Christ.
This is the story of everything—of how it all began, of all that has ever been, and of all that is still to come. It stretches from eternity past, through every moment of history, into eternity future.
And this incredible STORY is found in one book—the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, across 66 books, we don’t just see scattered stories—we witness ONE. BIG. STORY. The story of God’s relentless love, His perfect plan, and His invitation for us to be a part of it.
Today we’re starting where every story starts…The Beginning.
The Beginning Tells Us Of…
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The Character of God (Gen 1:1-2)
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The Glory of God (Gen 1:3)
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The Goodness of God (Gen 1:4)
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The Chief Creation of God (Gen 1:26-27)
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The Blessing of God (Gen 1:28-31)
Pastor Brandon brought a special message from the book of Proverbs encouraging us to Trust In The Lord with all of our hearts. In this text, we are reminded that:
a. Obedience Brings Blessing (1-4)
b. Trust Leads To Vitality (5-8)
c. Honor Leads To Provision (9-10)
d. Delight Brings Discipline (11-12)
Pastor Brandon walks us through Titus 3:1-11 and helps us remember what Kindom Living and Impact is all about:
Sermon Outline:
a. Remember to live kind and obedient lives (3:1-2)
b. Remember who you used to be (3:3)
c. Remember the great salvation of God (3:4-7)
d. Remember to stay on mission (3:8-11)
Sermon: Life-Changing Grace
Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025
Text: Titus 2:11-15
Outline:
a. Deny The Flesh
b. Walk By The Spirit
c. Wait For Christ’s Coming
d. Desire the Father’s Business
Join Pastor David as he continues our Titus: Doctrine & Devotion sermon series. This week, we’ll be reminded of the vital role each generation plays in shaping the next—passing down sound doctrine and inspiring a life of godliness. May this message encourage and challenge you!
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music Credits: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music Credits: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
What kind of faith was Jesus amazed by?? Join us in Matthew 8 as we examine the faith of a Roman Centurion: the last man you would expect to fall at the feet of Jesus in desperation and faith.
Pastor Brandon encouraged us to:
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Remain Desperate
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Remain Assured
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Remain Humbled
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Remain Audacious
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Remain Anchored
We hope this message about faith encourages you to seek Jesus more passionately!
Music Credits: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Church Planting Resident Perry Key unpacks what a life that is fully submitted to God looks like! We are encouraged in James 4 to humble ourselves and submit to God's Will over our own. We hope this message encourages you in your faith!
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music Credits: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Pastor Brandon unpacks 1 Peter 4:7-11, a passage that encourages us to use the gifts that have been given to us for God's glory. God has richly blessed us so that we can serve others!
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Join us in Philippians 3:7-11 as we dive into what it truly means to KNOW Jesus. The apostle Paul taught us that there is no greater value in life than to be in right relationship with Jesus. We can experience the power and presence of Jesus every day if we commit to following Him with total abandon to earthly things, that we may know Jesus even more. Listen back for a life changing message!
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
God can transform the lives of the rich, the weak, the oppressed, and even the unlikely. What does a life transformed by the power of Jesus Christ look like: what is the action? Dive into the next phase of 2 lives being transformed following Lydia's decision to follow Christ.
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
In our previous episode, Paul receives a vision from the Holy Spirit to go to Macedonia to preach the Gospel. But what happens when your 'tried and true' strategy becomes ineffective? Do we give up or do we lean into the Spirit more to see encounters as a divine opportunity to share the Gospel?
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
What happens when there's a conflict within the church body? What do we in moments when the Holy Spirit closes doors, even when we think these doors are to expand God's Kingdom? Pastor Brandon continues in Acts with the conflict between Paul and Barnabas, and partway through Paul's second missionary journey, in a very rare but important moment, the Holy Spirit changes the trajectory of Paul's (and his group) mission work of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
What happens when people add (or subtract) to the Gospel? Pastor Brandon will explore this topic in Acts 15. The early church encountered these issues and see how they discussed, debated, and arrived at a Christ-centered conclusion. Do you think this issue (adding/subtracting to the Gospel) is in churches today?
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Church planting resident Pastor Perry Key (Disciple Church) preaches through Mark 4, focusing on who we put our faith in during the storms (or hurricane) of this world.
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Pastor David shares from Acts 14:1-20 on how to maintain a resilient, steadfast, faith amidst life's combative lows.
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Guest Pastor: Dustin Driggers from Impact Church (Harlem)
Impact Community Church – Know, Grow, Show (impactharlem.org)
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Church planting resident James Choi (Crossings Community Church). Home | Crossings Community ChurchAnchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
One of Anchor's church planting residents, Pastor James Choi ( Crossings Community Church ) preaches on Psalm 121.
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Join us in Psalm 118 as Pastor Brandon Henson walks us through a message about living in the victory God has won for us! You will hear four specific encouragements that will help you walk even closer with Jesus by:
-Giving Thanks At All Times
-Trusting The Lord In Every Crisis
-Giving God Glory After Every Victory
-Seeing The Lord In Every Experience
Give us a shout and let us know how this sermon spoke to you: brandon@anchorchurchcsra.com
Our Next Gen. Pastor Kirk Saxon walks us through Psalm 91, an ancient song about God's love, care, and protection for all who trust in Him. We hope this message encourages you to walk closer in the shadow of the Almighty!
Church Planting resident Perry Key walks us through Psalm 73, a Psalm helping us to:
-Identify the struggle (of sin)
-Expose the root (of sin)
-Address the root (of sin)
Through this message you will be reminded that no matter the struggles we face, and sins that sometimes entangle us, God is with us and will guide us with His Truth! He never abandons us or fails us!
Church Plant resident Pastor James Choi.
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Care & Next Steps Pastor David Kang
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Guest Discipleship Pastor Dusty Wammack from Quest Church
Quest Church | A growing multicultural church in Grovetown, GA (thequestonline.com)----
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
Pastor Kirk Saxon
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
Music: Endless Desert by Steven Beddall
“Who’s Your King? The Right Response”
“A stir begins as soon as Christ is born. He has not spoken a word; hehas not wrought a miracle; he has not proclaimed a single doctrine;but ‘when Jesus was born,’ at the very first, while as yet youhear nothing but infant cries, and can see nothing but infantweakness, still his influence upon the world is manifest. ‘WhenJesus was born, there came wise men from the east,’ and so on.There is infinite power even in an infant Savior.” - Charles Hadden Spurgeon
Jesus->The Word became flesh-> was born.
King Herod The Great:
He was wealthy, politically gifted, intensely loyal, an excellentadministrator, and clever enough to remain in the good graces ofsuccessive Roman emperors. His famine relief was superb and hisbuilding projects (including the temple, begun 20 B.C.) were admiredeven by his foes. But he loved power, inflicted incredibly heavytaxes on the people, and resented the fact that many Jews consideredhim a usurper. In his last years, suffering an illness thatcompounded his paranoia, he turned to cruelty and in fits of rage andjealousy killed close associates.” (Carson)
1. Curiosity-> (1-2)
Illustration: Cultivating Curiosity
- Asking Questions
- Rabbit Holes
- Listening
- Ditching Our Phones
- Writing Down Thoughts
Curiosity is all about a posture to learn!
They were OPEN. There was an assumption that there is more to learn.
2. Indifference (3-6)
3. Hostility (3, 7-8)
- Rise of the Church Of Satan
- Deconstruction
- Very Religious People:Pharisees and Saducees. Legalists today. LAW, LAW, LAW!
- False Teachers who teach against the TRUTH about Jesus
- Distractions: (Unintentional Opposition).
- Jesus: If you are not for me you are against me.
“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working withme is actually working against me. –Matthew 12:30 NLT
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If He’s the King, I am not. I must surrender. I must obey. I must honor Him! 3. Joyful Worship (9-11)
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They were not satisfied with looking at the star and admiring it; they did something about the star, and set out and followed it.
- They sensed an urgency to worship Him now and not wait until later.
- When they worshiped, it was to give something – not empty-handedadoration.
-Gold-KING
-Frankincense-WORSHIP
-Myrrh-Death/Burial
The best rescues come from heroes that are willing to meet those who are perishing in the middle of the mess.
Jesus came and met us in our mess
The infinite became finite.
The invisible became visible.
The Creator entered creation.
Doctrine of the Incarnation: What's the big deal with Jesus taking on flesh?
1. His Union: The Word became flesh...
- Hypostatic Union: Jesus was fully God and fully man. 100% both. He took on flesh without losing his deity. He took on human nature but never lost who He was. It was veiled... but visible
- Gk: Sarx Egeneto -> took on flesh. Developed and became.
- He took on flesh...
- To satisfy perfect obedience - to be our RIGHTEOUSNESS (+)
- To take our place in judgement (-). The sins of man must be punished by A MAN. If Jesus was not fully human, then the justice of the cross would be compromised
2. His Presence. And dwelt among us...
- Dwelt -> "tabernacled" - to dwell in a tent. Gk: Skenoo
- Jesus comes to dwell with us.
- In his arrival... we discover -> He's a King that comes and shares his intimate presence with us.
3. His Glory. We observed his glory...
- Gk: Doxa -> praise, honor, glory
4. His Origin. The glory as the one and only Son from the father...
- Gk: Monogene -> Unique & one of a kind.
5. His Essence. Full of Grace and Truth
Jesus was an expected gift that people have been looking forward to for all of human history, all the way back to Abraham!
God is always on time. He fulfills His promises. He is never late. He is always faithful.
Jesus was SENT and BORN to REDEEM so we would RECEIVE.1.) Sent
“The Time” is the promise, the anticipation, the prophecies that everyone has been hearing about. Generations upon generations of hearing prophets announcing about this king, this prophet, this high priest…
But then 400 years of no prophets (people chosen by God to speak for God)No prophecies (message from God), yet they still anticipate.The page that separates the Old and New Testament is the 400 years.
And in the silence, God was working something to completion. And God sent his Son.Jesus was sent because Christmas is about CovenantIf Jesus was sent because Christmas is about Covenant, what was God’s promise?
Let’s read 2 Samuel. This is Nathan, a prophet, talking to King David.2. Born
The Son of Man must be born as a man, to live under the law, in order to fulfill the covenant God established with man.
Let’s read another prophecy, and remember, a prophecy is a message from God announced from a prophet to the people of Israel.-Micah 5:2Who do we know that was born in Bethlehem? This and 2 Samuel prophecies were 2 fulfilled through Jesus. Jesus fulfilled over 300 prophecies from Scripture!!God is always on time. He fulfills His promises. He is never late. He is always faithful.3. RedeemWhat was loss?
=Our direct connection and being in the family of God"
The incident at the Garden of Eden showed that we THINK we know what we WANT instead of God KNOWING what we NEED.The goal of the Laws Moses wrote from God was for Israel to keep the covenant, to be a kingdom of priests, a holy (set apart) nation from the rest of the world so that all the families of the earth would be blessed.The Son of Man must be born as a man, to live under the law, in order to fulfill the covenant God established with man.People were still hoping on the LAW to redeem them, but the LAW revealed we COULDN’T KEEP ALL THE RULES.
This is a key issue Paul was bringing up in his letter to the Galatian Church.
It is not the Law AND Jesus that saves you. It is Jesus and ONLY Jesus.
Jesus paid our price, He REDEEMED us, on the cross to SET US FREE.
We have been purchased by Jesus. Not to make us slaves but to adopt us as sons.4. ReceiveThis is the gift we receive when we turn away from our sins and trust everything in Jesus: we are adopted as sons of God. Paul is Threading the Old Testament and Roman culture.When a Roman adopts a son, that son becomes an heir to the family wealth.
Guest pastor Dustin Driggers from Impact Church
Impact Community Church – Know, Grow, Show (impactharlem.org)----
Anchor Church (anchorchurchcsra.com)
"Growing Pains"
The church encounters discomforts as we grow and change.
- Disciples were increasing in number. People were believing in Jesus, wanting to be baptized, and learning how to follow Jesus in faith
There's no such thing as a problem-free church
- Arose a complaint: (by) Hellenistic Jews AGAINST Hebraic Jews
- Tense relationship between Hellenistic Jews vs. Hebraic Jews
- Satan's strategy failed. Again. Tried to divide the church, and it did not work. The apostles were not distracted from the focus of ministry God had for them - to focus on the Word of God and on prayer.
- As the church grows, care ministry gets harder. There are more people to care for
- Specific problem needed a specific solution
Systems/Problems: the mark of a growing and healthy church isn't the absence of problems, but the presence of effective systems to solve those problems.
If a church (or other organization) didn't have any problems, I would question if there is actually a purpose within that organization.
Our bodies are made this way by God with systems to address, external problems and internal problems that arise. This is a powerful picture of what happens within the life of a church.
The beauty of the local church is a diversity of methodology within how we address challenges that arise.
We cannot grow and accomplish the mission and vision that God has given us apart from a church full of servant leaders.
One problem was the apostles were losing the ability to accomplish there primary responsibilities, because they were filling a need destined for somebody else to take care of.
It's not that serving tables was beneath the apostles. Not every part of the body does the same thing and shouldn't do the same thing.
- Everyone involved deserves much credit.
- Those with the complaint, the Hellenists, did the right things: They made a need known instead of complaining and whining, and they trusted the solution of the apostles.
- Those of the other party, the Hebrews, did the right thing: They recognized that the Hellenists had a legitimate need and the trusted the solution of the apostles.
- The seven chosen men did the right thing: They accepted the call to unglamorous service.
- The apostles did the right thing: They responded to the need without distracting themselves from the central task.
As a church family, 3 applications will help use continue to grow.
- Heart: be honest and compassionate about our problems
- Motive: Step up as servant leaders to serve one another
- Focus: Stay committed to the mission Jesus as given us
The hardest work in our world is the spiritual work of advancing the Kingdom of God.
-We have an enemy, Satan, the devil, and legions of demons in opposition to God and His Children. He wants to seek, kill, and destroy everyone and everything God has created.
-We have our own flesh that gets in the way: Our fears, insecurities, anxieties, and selfishness.
-We have others around us who oppose the truth of God, and who war against it, (as we all have at one point or another).
**The Witness Warrior Displays 3 Gospel Realities In Their Battle
1. Freedom: Brought Out To Bring Others In(17-24)
Rise Up Opposition. *A sign you are doing the Lord’s work!
Jealousy A key part of the enemy’s “playbook” -> Jealousy always misses the point, inflates self and selfish agenda above all else, and works to destroy others instead of build them up!
Parallel Gospel v. 19-20 . BROUGHT OUT to BRING OTHERS.
Set Free to Set Others Free.
2. Resilience: Advancing Despite Adversity (25-32)
Illustration: Wind Up Toy Car
-Wind Up toy Pressure/Tension applied propels them forward!
Connect to 25 -> Pressure applied (JAIL) -> Spring Back To The Start-> STANDING. TEACHING. LOVING (God & Others).
Key Characteristic Of Witness Warriors: Resiliency. Toughness. Tenacity. Advancing Despite Adversity.
GOSPEL REALITY: Jesus was Resilient.
Jesus was the most resilient man who ever lived. Tempted, tried, beaten, mocked, scorned, scourged, nailed to a cross, died, BUT RISEN.
We only complete the mission because of Jesus’ completion of His.
3. Guarantee: Clinging to God’s Unstoppable Plan. (33-42)
Theudas Hundreds of Followers Persecution Fire Put Out (Illustration). Coals moved to separate places, fire quickly grows cold.
Judas the Gallilean-> died followers dispersed. -> again…fire died out.
Guarantee #1: For if this plan or this work is of human origin, it will fail;
boulé: counsel
Original Word: βουλή, ῆς, ἡ
Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine
Transliteration: boulé
Phonetic Spelling: (boo-lay')
Definition: counsel
Usage: counsel, deliberate wisdom, decree.
HELPS Word-studies
1012 boulḗ – properly, a resolved plan, used particularly of the immutable aspect of God's plan – purposefully arranging all physical circumstances, which guarantees every scene of life works to His eternal purpose.
Guarantee #2: 39 but if it (the “boule”) is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even be found fighting against God.” They were persuaded by him.
**The Guarantee Of A Mission Accomplished:
We cling to a Guarantee-> God will accomplish His Will.
Closing: The Difference Maker (BREATH OF GOD).
Difference of the early church? Jesus died and WAS RAISED. Ascended to heaven Sent The Promised Spirit Pneuma -> AIR IN MOTION.
(πνεῦμα, Lat. spiritus) is connected etymologically with πνέω, breathe or blow, and has a basic meaning of 'air in motion', or 'breath' as something necessary to life.
With Christianity The coals did NOT spread apart (they were together) and had the BREATH OF GOD moving in and through them, and they BLAZED BRIGHTLY.
This result: Scattering this kind of fire, creates a WILDFIRE. And that’s exactly what we have seen throughout the history of the church.
This is the life of a Witness Warrior: The Battle of The Normal Christian Life. -> FREEDOM RESILIENCY GUARANTEE.
“The Strength Of A Unified Church”
Acts 4:32-37
99.9% of your DNA is shared with all other humans.
At the core of who we are created to be, we have a lot in common.
Yet we are so unique and different. In the .1%, there is what makes you, YOU.
In the church we have this same beautiful situation: Commonality—not Congruence. Unity, but
not uniformity.
The strength of the Church is found in 4 different ways in Acts 4:32-37.
1. The Church Of One Heart & Mind (32)
THE GREAT SHIFT: A Shift From Seeing Possessions As “Mine,” to seeing them as
“God’s” to be stewarded.
**PEOPLE OVER POSSESSIONS.
How can I steward my possessions to bless others?
- Giving away -> I can bless someone else with this permanently.
- Sharing -> I can let someone borrow this until they don’t need it anymore.
- Leveraging -> I can use this tool/possession to serve others. What is the heart?: Everything In Common
**Different interests, personalities, gifts, talents, and belongings→ but the SAME
LOVE for God & Others.
2. The Church Of Great Power & Grace (33)
A. Great Power
- Promised from Acts 1:8
- Boldness
- Truth has intrinsic power-> as it flows from Christ Himself.
B. Great Grace
- “Grace” = Unmerited Favor (Charis) -> GIFT
- God’s favor looks like a branch full of fruit. -> EVIDENCE.
- God’s smile/approval.
- Evidence of a healthy body (church).
3. The Church Of Meeting Each Other’s Needs (34-35)
-The church is an organism, not merely an organization.
-There are organizational components to a church (systems, processes, culture,
marketing, etc.) BUT...It is an organism because the membership is spiritually alive. The
church is the body of Christ. Jesus lives, and He has sent the Spirit into our hearts, and
we pour out the grace and truth of Jesus to our world as we live our lives on mission.
-Key Doctrine: Ecclesiology-> Permanence of the Church
*Don’t miss→ They took such good care of each other, there wasn’t a needy
person among them.
-Cultural/Historical Context: -> Unique Situation. Many from different lands after
the Pentecost event didn’t have permanent homes or access to many needed
resources (some of them very basic needs for survival).
- Not a one-time event, and not all at the same time. “From time to time” this would
happen.
- Even though the situation was unique in this context, the heart is still central to all
believers: Generosity.
- Every good and perfect gift comes from above (James 1:17a).
- Biblical Generosity Must Be Voluntary
4. The Church Of Encouragers (Sold Out To Sacrifice)---(36-37)
- Joseph-> Levite from Cyprus (priestly family).
- Nickname stuck with him→ Son of Encouragement.
- Not only in his words (which we’ll see in Acts) but in his ACTIONS.
- Sacrificed → Gave
- Servant Minded
GOSPEL PRESENTATION/INVITATION: Barnabas→ Jesus
A. sold a field he owned-> Gave up what was his
B. brought the money-> Brought his righteousness.
C. and laid it at the apostles’ feet. -> Laid it all down for those who didn’t earn it.
(Encouragement––Selflessness—Generosity—Sacrifice)
God & Man, We Are Together, but still not perfect like Him, WORK OF THE SPIRIT Brought Together, Shaken Up, Prepared For Our Purpose: To Be The Body Of Christ, His Presence in this world, and to through the power of the Holy Spirit: EXPAND HIS KINGDOM.
Recap: Spirit Given, Lame Beggar Healed, Gospel is Preached, Opposition pushes back, More Gospel Preached, and More Threats/Warnings given to the church to NOT preach about Jesus.
4 Needs Of The Church As We Pray For Boldness
#1: We need a posture of surrender to our Sovereign God (24-28)
Value of praying together (or in one accord): Listened to each other, they valued the same things, and they were united in vision, mission, and values.
This word Lord is not the usual word for Lord in the New Testament; it is the Greek word despotes. It was a word used of a slave owner or ruler who has power that cannot be questioned. They prayed with power and confidence because they knew God was in control.
John The Baptist: I must decrease, & He must increase.
Don’t miss that: Peter believed that the words of King David, recorded in Psalms 2, were actually the words of the Lord God, said by the mouth of King David. Peter had a high view of the Holy Scriptures.
Psalm 2-> David quote
Why do the Gentiles rage
and the peoples plot futile things?
26 The kings of the earth take their stand
and the rulers assemble together
against the Lord and against his Messiah.
Servant Mindset -> Humility
Sovereignty Focus -> Peace
#2: We need to regularly ask for opportunities to speak the word boldly. (29)
Consider their threats-> You handle it Lord. We trust you. You are sovereign. We are not.
Grant that-> give us regular opportunities to connect with people and share the truth of God’s Word, and the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ.
#3: We need to build faith that God is able to accomplish anything. (30)
What did the early church believe God would accomplish:
A. Healing
B. Signs & Wonders
Summed Up: The early church had confidence that God could transform anyone or anything according to His Will.
How can we have this confidence? Our faith can be LIVING but should also we regularly under CONSTRUCTION.
How do we build our faith?
5 D’S of Faith Building
-Discover
-Decision
-Discipleship
-Depend
-Declare
#4: We need to be shaken & filled with the Spirit. (31)
Assembly: The value of the gathered church. Christian culture today has devalued the gathering. We need to be a part of the resurgence of placing a high priority and value on assembling together. Cf. Hebrews 10:24-25
24 And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, 25 not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching. –Hebrews 10:24-25 CSB
Shaken: the place where they were assembled was shaken…
Physically: God’s affirming of their sincere hearts, and assurance that He heard their prayers and is with them.
Spiritually: God’s movement within our hearts and minds through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Shake Up Conviction
Fill Up Provision
Power Up-> Completion
COMPLETION CHRIST’S FINISHED WORK THROUGH HIS LIFE ON THIS EARTH. SO THAT WE WOULD BE MADE COMPLETE.
PEACE-> SHALOM FOUNDATION FOR BOLDNESS
4 Powerful Gifts For Us To Advance The Kingdom
God has given us the gift of His grace--not only to save us from our sins---but to empower us to Advance His Kingdom.
- 1. Astonishing Boldness: (13-14)
-Boldness: Parresia-> FREEDOM & CONFIDENCE.
- Uneducated & Untrained: Certainly they were uneducated in one sense – they, like Jesus, had no formal rabbinic education according to the customs and standards of that time. Yet they were educated in two more important ways: they knew the Scriptures, and they had been with Jesus.
- Speaking With Authority: Jesus apostles US.
- Our “ordinary” exalts the “extraordinary” Jesus qualifies you.
- Knowledge of The Scriptures
- Spent time with Jesus
- 2. Undeniable Evidence (15-18)
Goal: To frustrate the powers of darkness, where at the meeting of demons they don’t know what to do, because their plans to lead astray are not working! What are we going to do with these Christians?
Key: We cannot deny it.
Q: What’s the undeniable evidence?
- Empty Tomb (an empty grave is there to prove, my Savior lives). This was the apostles & the early church’s constant testimony.
Listen to what Paul wrote regarding the resurrection of Jesus:
1 Corinthians 15:1-7a
Miracles: A man who was miraculously healed (the purpose of the signs and wonders: validation of the early church). He was right there in front of them!
-Catch 22 For Sanhedrin, & other accusers present: They broke no law, yet it was not to their advantage to send them away to teach and heal in the name of Jesus
-Solution?: More threats…More bullying…In reality? NOTHING.
That’s all the enemy has…empty threats. Because of Christ’s resurrection, He has already won, and darkness has been defeated. We can trust in God as He moves in the hearts and lives of people and creates more undeniable evidence that the opposition cannot deny.
- 3. Driven Obedience (19-20)
- (19) We were made live for an audience of ONE. -> Please God and Disappoint Man. You cannot do both. Jesus said we can’t serve 2 masters. We will love the one and hate the other.
- a. Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge: It was self-evident that they should listen to God instead of man. Peter made an effective appeal to this truth.
- (20) The engine of their evangelism: EXPERIENCE. We have seen Him. Heard Him. Touched Him. Eaten with Him.
- Speak the things which we have seen and heard: They did not originate this message; they merely relayed it as reliable eyewitnesses.
CHANGED BY THE WORD…
Not only that, but these men and women of the early church were CHANGED by Jesus. TRANSFORMED. Through surrender to Him, faith in Him, cleansed of their sins, and received a new heart/identity. They were born again.
UNABLE TO STOP SPEAKING:
We cannot but speak: Peter and John must speak of the things which they had seen and heard. They had to, not only because of the inner compulsion of the Holy Spirit, but also because of the command of Jesus: You shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem (Act 1:8).
When Jesus comes into your life and changes your heart, you CAN’T HELP but obey. It’s always work, but spiritual disciplines & ministry becomes something you are compelled by the Spirit of God Himself to do, through the gifts and power He has distributed to you.
That driven obedience comes only through the Spirit’s power.
You cannot hype yourself up enough. Hype is empty. It will fade.
The Spirit’s power will endure. You will bear fruit.
You will crave the things of God more.
You will fall in love with serving Him daily.
- 4. Dynamic Worship (21-22)
The opposition couldn’t stand…WHY?
WORSHIP. Genuine worship was breaking out.
God worked and moved, and people lifted up their voices to exalt their God in praise for what He has done.
He has given us an audacity/boldness, undeniable evidence, the Spirit’s power to help us with DRIVEN obedience, that overflows into DYNAMIC WORSHIP.
4 Truths About God that lead to 4 Corresponding Truths About Us.
1.) God Knows Us Intimately (1-6)
The verb “search” means “to examine with pain and care.” Jewish people used this word to describe digging deep into a mine, exploring a land, and investigating a legal case.
God knows our actions, our thoughts, our motives, our words, our locations, everything!
You encircle Me: (surround me) -> You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. -> this HEBREW word for encircled means “to guard a valuable object,” God’s knowledge and guidance are for your protection.
**Even though we are created to BE KNOWN, we are also prone to HIDE.
2.) God Is With Us Constantly (7-12)
Authorial Context: A Shepherd wrote this Psalm. God is revealed as a Shepherd to His People. Jesus came as “The Good Shepherd,” and does not lose His sheep! Why? He is always with you.
Joshua 1:5 I will never leave you or forsake you.
Matthew 28 Jesus final words: Lo, I am with you always!
V. 8-> Whether you are at the highest heights right now, or the lowest lows, IT DOES NOT CHANGE HIS PRESENCE.
HE IS THE CONSTANT. (Hebrews 13:8) -> The Same Yesterday, Today, and Forever.
V. 10-> Even There!
David was so assured of the constant presence of God’s hand of love and care that not even death and the grave could separate him from God’s love – as Paul would later write in Rom 8:38-39. In fact, God’s right hand – His hand of skill and strength – would hold David no matter what may come.
V. 10-> LEAD ME.
HOLD ON TO ME.
Even the night God’s presence with David was like a constant light in the darkness. As the pillar of cloud illuminated Israel in the wilderness (Exo 13:21), so with God’s presence the night shines as the day.
3.) God Made Us Wonderfully (v. 13-18)
God as our Creator: You are hand crafted Heb. Embroidered. Custom Made.
V. 14-> Made in His Image: IMAGO DEI. We were made remarkably and wondrously because God has made us IN HIS IMAGE.
The only appropriate response to this glorious doctrine is PRAISE.
How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God: David was filled with amazement and adoration by considering how God knew and cared for him.
Just the fact that someone is thinking about you strengthens the relationship.
The Bible is not just God’s instructions, but HIS THOUGHTS. He knows our thoughts; they are precious to Him. His thoughts ought to be precious to us. He shares His heart with us. His Wisdom with us. The level of which they are precious are the level to which we live them out! We cannot simply KNOW his thoughts, but TREASURE them and LIVE THEM to a world that desperately needs to KNOW GOD.
4.) God Judges Righteously (19-24)
Longing for righteousness and justice, NOT A SELFISH HATRED. (19-22)
Oh, that You would slay the wicked: David abruptly shifted from a spirit of wonder and adoration to intense prayer against the wicked and against bloodthirsty men. It wasn’t primarily because these men opposed David, but because they opposed God: for they speak against You wickedly.
David’s adoration filled him with zeal for God’s honor.
David was undeniably God’s partisan. He wanted to be on God’s side, and therefore even allowed himself to hate those who hated God.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: David came to the God of perfect knowledge and constant presence knowing He was also a God of love, and could be trusted to search him and to know him at the deepest levels. This is also an admission that God knew David better than David knew himself, and that he needed God to search and know him.
Try me and know my anxieties: David wanted God to examine him and look for worry. Such anxieties could be evidence of unbelief or misplaced trust.
See if there is any wicked way in me: David opened his soul completely before God, asking if there were any unknown or unperceived sins.
Lead me in the way everlasting: Trusting the God of complete knowledge and constant presence would bring David to everlasting life.
Q: How do you know God is at work in a church?
Devoted to the Essentials (42)
- Continued steadfastly-> devotion. uses a Greek verb communicating “a steadfast and single-minded fidelity to a certain course of action.”
4 Pillars Of Devotion For the early Church:
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Teaching-> THE WORD.
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Fellowship→ MINGLING. Not merely shoulder to shoulder, but HEART to HEART.
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Breaking of Bread→ They ate together. You eat together with your family, with your friends, with people that matter to you.
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Prayer→ Asking God to move mightily, dependent on Him…TOGETHER!
Aware & Amazed By God’s Activity (43)
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God’s activity never “got old” to them. They were amazed at what God was doing.
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A season Premiere: Show you’ve been waiting on that new season.
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This is a season premiere: This is a new season for our church.
-
We had our “launch season,” establishing some basic systems, and taking our first steps in ministry.
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We’ve seen nearly two dozen baptisms, several come to Christ for the first time, several come BACK to Christ after a season away.
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Our first mission trip as a church:
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Starting Church Planting Residency later this fall to train new church planters and then send them to launch new churches in the CSRA.
- Next steps in launching our student ministry so we can reach more teenagers and equip teenagers to go into the biggest mission field of our community: their schools.
**Celebrate→ If we’re going to accomplish these God-sized goals, it’s going to be because of the execution of a God’s sized Mission, and commitment to a God-sized vision. -> MOVE.
Unified In Vision & Mission (44)
-
TOGETHER (mingled, not simply in the same room) IN COMMON (single focus, vision, not DI-VISION).
-
Group Think Illustration: As a church, we are NOT simply committing to Group Think: SPIRIT FOCUSED. We are gathered around the Word, listening to the AUTHOR of the WORD. Not what do I think, but what does GOD SAY? What are my best next steps to obey what the Holy Spirit has spoken to my heart?
- Let’s experience a unity of Christ-mindedness together as a church.
Generous & Other’s Focused (45)
- We desperately need to adopt a Jesus-over-everything mindset.
- When Gospel Transformation (lives changed by the power of the good news of Jesus,) and Kingdom Expansion (more churches, more ministry, more discipleship, more glory given to God, more extravagant displays of God’s dominion in this world) become supremely important to us, we live life with OPEN HANDS. Open Hands from an open heart.
- We will not be generous until we realize how much God has given to us.
- Generosity flows out of a grateful heart. How could I not give to the Lord? How could I not give away my possessions to others? How could I not meet the needs of others?
Hospitable & Authentic (46)
Do not underestimate your ability to reach others for Jesus by simply inviting them into your home to share a meal.
-
The culture of our community does not expect it.
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We are so SCARED of people that we allow FEAR to rob us of the JOY of serving others in this way.
- Can’t cook? -> Do a pick-up order.
- Last part of 46-> They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts. The food was a vehicle for JOY and AUTHENTICITY to flow from the heart.
aphelótēs (a-fel-ah-tays) -> (derived from 1 /A "not" and phelleus, "stony ground") – properly, without rocks (the opposite of phelleus, "rocky land"), i.e. smoothness (a level plain); (figuratively) what is uncomplicated and unencumbered, i.e. without hindrances or stumbling blocks.
Worshipful & Grace Filled (47a)
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Notice we don’t get to worship until 47.
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Enjoying the favor of all the people → FAVOR → GRACE→ Grace-filled culture.
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We are Saved by Grace
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We are Sanctified By Grace
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We are Sent By Grace
Growing & Effective In Leading Other’s To Jesus (47b)
Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
- The early church was committed to a life of inviting others to Jesus. To receive Him as both Lord and Savior.
Why would you share all that about your get-together without inviting someone?
We do this in regards to our faith. Tell people facts about Jesus. Serve others. But no invitation to come and follow Him.
A Gospel Message Without An Invitation Is Just A Lecture. We must declare the truth, and INVITE people to respond. We are not called to lecture, we are called to proclaim the truth and to participate in God’s work to save people from their sin/His judgment.
**Biblical Preaching contains a please to respond: an invitation
- Conviction: The Spirit convicts to lead us to repentance (37)
37 When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
Questions accompany --> genuine conviction
What do they ask?: What must we do??-->
-
κατανύσσομαι-> only time used in Scripture. Katanussomai
-
to prick violently
-
Usage: met: I am pierced, stung, smitten.
4 Or do you despise the riches of his kindness, restraint, and patience, not recognizing[a] that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? -Romans 2:4 CSB
- Reconciliation: Repentance and faith are how we are reconciled with God. (38)
38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- Proclamation: We are to declare the truth to our children and the lost. (39a)
39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off…….as many as the Lord our God will call.”
40 With many other words he testified and strongly urged them, saying, “Be saved from this corrupt generation!”
-
Corrupt: twisted & crooked.
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Believers Baptism: Those who turn from sin and trust in Christ publicly identify with Him.
41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added to them.
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Baptism immediately follows salvation in the Bible
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Do not see people being baptized who have not placed their faith in Christ.
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To them: A faith community (saved unto the Kingdom, and committing to a church family).
4 Questions:
-
) Have you experienced conviction of your sin? What is your next step?
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) Have you genuinely repented of a life centered around sin?
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Have you made a spiritual discipline out of daily, ongoing repentance?
3.) Have you placed your faith in Christ, and been made right with God through Him?
4.) Have you made a firm resolve to proclaim the gospel, no matter the cost?
5.) Have you made your faith public by following Jesus into the waters of baptism?
Overview: How to Discern God’s Will
-So how do we know what God wants? Vs. Just what we want? How do we make important decisions with His Will in mind?
-United In Prayer with the Saints: (12-14)
-Abiding in God’s Word (15-22)
-Sold Out to God’s Will (23-26)
United In Prayer with the Saints: (12-14)
-FIRST mention of what the disciples who had witnessed the resurrected Jesus were found doing, and where they were found doing it.
- Jesus had instructed them to go wait for the Spirit in Jerusalem. So, they went! They put the sermon into practice.
-Upper Room: they knew the upper room was the perfect place to wait.
Why?
-They had been there (or somewhere similar) with Jesus.
-They were safe in the upper room, obeying–waiting to receive the promise of the Holy Spirit.
-So, what were they doing in the upper room?
they were continually united in prayer —with all the fellow believers and worshipers of Jesus.
-Don’t miss the corporate nature of prayer→ different than our hyper-individualized culture.
- Community was at the heart of God, and at the heart of those who had been changed by Jesus.
The Problem: They were concerned with replacing Judas in the lineup of the original 12 disciples.
-They were also rightly concerned with the advancement of the gospel.
-We should weigh our decisions by whether or not the Kingdom of God and His Gospel is advanced or hindered.
--They had an important decision to make, SO THEY PRAYED.
-Prayer is not asking God to bless what we have decided is good but pleading with the Lord to be gracious to us by giving us discernment, and those around us discernment, in what would be wise and glorifying to Him.
Abiding in God’s Word (15-22)
There is no better way to know and carry out God’s will than to LIVE. ABIDE. IN HIS WORD.
-The people who know God’s will the best know His Word.
We are not just planting a church but are in the middle of a movement in the making. That’s not normal!
-SCAN -> GOD’S WORD.
-SUFFICIENT
-CLEAR
-AUTHORITATIVE
-NECESSARY
God has revealed everything necessary for our redemption & sanctification.
Want to know his concealed will? Start with His revealed will.
-
Theology: v. 16→ this statement highlights the inspiration of Scripture. God spoke it through a human author.
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2 Peter 1:20-21
-We learn specifically about The Holy Spirit of God that HE is the ultimate author of Scripture, with men as His mouthpiece.
-“Book of Man” objection→ No, it is God’s book
Recap of Judas: (Mt. 27:1-5) Judas betrayed Jesus for the price of 30 pieces of silver.
-is filled with remorse
-returns the 30 pieces of silver back to the lead priests and elders.
-acknowledges his sin, and betrayal of “an innocent man.”
-takes his own life by hanging himself.
-Jeremiah 32:6-9 is fulfilled.
- Psalm 69:25 is applied to Judas. Psalm 109:8 is used as the rationale for finding a replacement for Judas.
-These Psalms have in view wicked traitors who are enemies of God’s King. Peter basically says Judas fits the bill.
-Again-we should look to our Bibles to make sense of this dark, confusing world we live in. The Word is truly a lamp to our feet, and a light to our path.
-By filling Judas’ office, the church was acknowledging and valuing the need for key eyewitness testimony to the gospel in the days immediately following Jesus’ departure.
-They valued the apostolic role, which was to provide immediate authoritative leadership from those who had been WITH JESUS in the flesh!
Sold Out to God’s Will (23-26)
Jesus→ Luke 22:42
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me — nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”
Certain of God’s Sovereignty → You know everyone’s hearts
Completely consumed with the WILL OF GOD. -> SHOW US who YOU have chosen.
Just like Jesus…the early church was SOLD OUT to the perfect will of God. Wherever you lead, Whatever you want Lord, MY YES IS ON THE TABLE.
Sermon Notes:
Authorship: Luke. Companion of Paul. Doctor. Historian. Skilled in writing Greek.
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Glance Back: (v. 1b-3) Jesus died on the cross, was raised to life, and then spent 40 days appearing to many: PROOF. TEACHING. COMMANDMENTS. COMMISSION.
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Began: The work isn’t finished (1b) There’s more to do! The work of the church is the continuation of Jesus work in this world.
The Church’s beginning is based on the coming of the Promised Spirit.
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Wait For The Father’s Promise: The Holy Spirit (v. 4)
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Bible is FULL of Promises from the Father about Christ, but also about The Spirit of God.
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive him because it doesn’t see him or know him. But you do know him, because he remains with you and will be in you.
25 “I have spoken these things to you while I remain with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.
-John 14:15-17, 25-26-
(from Pastor David Guzik)
• To wait means that it was worth waiting for.
• ... that they had a promise it would come.
• ... they must receive it; they couldn’t create it themselves.
• ... that they would be tested by waiting, at least a little.
The Prophecy Of John The Baptist: Baptism With The Holy Spirit (v.5)
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John was telling of a specific future event where the Spirit of God would be poured out upon those who repented and believed in The Lamb of God: Jesus.
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John was prophesying about Pentecost
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All this talk about the outpouring of the indwelling Holy Spirit: The New Covenant of Jesus’ blood, with the HELPER and COUNSELOR living inside...leads them to ask a question v. 6
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Is this the time where Israel will be its own free nation again, not under Roman rule…Is this the time of national freedom?
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It is not for you to know: this frustrates us as times, but it is designed to create a deeper trust and dependence on the Father’s timing in all things.
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If things went the way the disciples initially thought they were going to go, then the Kingdom would not have expanded the way it did.
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This is true to life
The Church’s mission is dependent upon receiving power from the Holy Spirit.
-We are nothing without his power, but God delights in using His conduits of grace to bring lost sinners back to Himself.
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power: Gk. Word Dunamis. Our word for dynamite: Explosive- Unlimited Power.
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Testify: martyria “witness,” “testimony,” “evidence” Unlimited Devotion.
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This term refers to “confirmation or attestation on the basis of personal knowledge or belief.” And was commonly used in connection with legal proceedings.
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Our English word for martyr.
–John 15:26-27
OT: Power of the Holy Spirit was reserved for kings and prophets, and occasionally regular people when the LORD wanted to accomplish something extraordinary. The filling of the Holy Spirit was a rare gift and almost always temporary.
The announcement that the Spirit of God would indwell each believer seemed unthinkable, an unbelievable extravagance the followers of Jesus could barely comprehend.
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Outworking of the New Covenant:
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Jeremiah 31:31-34, Ez. 37:14; Joel 2:28-32
Transition To Ascension:
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The language of “a cloud took him out of their sight” is deeply meaningful. It reminds us of the Transfiguration event of Matthew 17 when the cloud of God’s Shekinah Glory enveloped Christ in His glorified state, which Peter, James, and John got a glimpse of on top of Mt. Tabor.
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The Ascension is the 2nd of 3 successive manifestations of Jesus’ glory.
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Here are the 3 in order:
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Transfiguration
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Ascension
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Parousia (End times, Jesus 2nd coming).
2 Key Applications:
- To carry out the mission of God, the people of God must be empowered. *God is calling us to JOIN HIM IN HIS MISSION. THAT’S YOU!
- To impact our world, the power of the Holy Spirit must be released.
4 Valuable insights to help us grow in understanding and participating in God's redemptive work.
1. Selfishness & Hypocrisy are a hinderance to God's redemptive work. (1-3)
- The preacher is mad because 120k people got saved after his sermon.
- Jonah delighted more in the destruction of his enemies than the thought of them being delivered from what they deserved.
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Anger = Hebrew: Kindled, Burning.
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Hypocrisy: Jonah himself called on the mercy of God (ch.2) and enjoyed the mercy of God when it was extended to Jonah. Now he resents it when it is extended to others.
- What if God treated Jonah the way Jonah wanted God to treat the people of Nineveh?
- Isn't this WHAT I SAID: lit. "my word" (4:2) vs. God's Word (1:1)
- He also states that this was the reason he fled the call - not out of fear that he would be ineffective, but fear that he would be effective!
- Jonah's complaint: "God... your behavior does not conform to my theology."
- Quenching of the Spirit
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Kingdom Opposition often comes from professing Christians who:
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have made their theology their God. God does not have permission to do things that I don't like or agree with.
- have sound theology but a rebellious spirit.
When we aren't healthy spiritually, we validate the lies of the enemy. Verse 3
-Today's phrase: Over my dead body. If I'm not going to get my way, I'd rather just not live at all. (not the first time Jonah has tried this... 'toss me overboard' makes sense now).
2. Our feelings & emotions should be questioned often (4)
- We cannot trust our hearts or emotions.
- "The heart is more deceitful than anything else, and incurable - who can understand it?" - Jeremiah 17
Jonah wasn't just angry with the situation, he was mad AT GOD.
There may be times where we are angry with God, but we ought to repent of this anger.
God is good, and only does what is perfect and righteous. Jonah wasn't out of bounds in communicating the honesty behind feelings that God already knew, but Jonah was in sin when he was continually unrepentant for his unrighteous anger.
- God asks questions to reveal our heart
- In our time with the LORD: God search me... question my heart.
God's questions precede his lessons. We must be available to receive those cutting questions.
- Good Christian accountability
3. God sovereignly appoints exactly what we need to learn what He wants to teach us.
God appointed a plant (6). God provides**
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Jonah is delighted with the plant. God has rescued him from trouble, which is the same Hebrew word that is rendered wickedness in Jon 1:2 and punishment in Jon 3:10.
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So what is the trouble Jonah was being delivered from? It wasn't his comfort: it was his evil.
God appointed a worm (7). God takes away**
God appointed a wind (8). God leads us to places of desperation to deepen our dependence**
But all Jonah desires is death.
4. Recipients of God's grace ought to delight in extending grace to anyone who would receive it. (10-11)
- God contrasts the care that He has for his own creation, even the most wicked people imaginable at the time, with Jonah's care about a Castor oil plant that he had for a day, that he didn't even work for, but it made him happy. (The only time he expressed happiness in the book of Jonah!)
- Cannot distinguish their right and left: They are lost. They need a Savior. And God loves them. He cares for them. And the same is true for you.
-Even if you've run like Jonah
-Even if you've engaged in evil like the Ninevites
-Even if you've been angry with God and have grown distant
-Even if you've been giving lip service to God but your life doesn't match it.
He can save you
4 Encouragements For Living Out The Gospel
1. Use your second chance as an opportunity for obedience. (1-3a)
- Second time: Our God is a God of Second Chances. In fact if you’re a Christian, your life is a “second chance,” an opportunity to operate solely in God’s mercy and grace.
- Jonah receives the same exhortation: Get Up! GO! TO Nineveh!
-God tells us what to say-> The message that I tell you. *Bread Crumbs
God desires that we not only hear the gospel, and believe the gospel, but live the gospel.
- We so desperately want the blueprint, but we cannot handle it! We want all steps at once--> But you know what receiving his instructions piece by piece does...it galvanizes your faith.
- It takes your faith from just a set of beliefs, and energizes you in action.
- It also strengthens your faith by creating a deeper dependence for God. When He leads us step by step, we are LONGING for every word, attentive to detail, and much more effective for His Glory.
- Last time Jonah used his freedom as an opportunity for sin/rebellion.
- This time Jonah walks in God’s mercy—this glorious second chance as an opportunity for obedience.
- Galatians 5:13
- 2 John 1:6
• So what is the foundation for obedience? LOVE. A sincere love for God. A love for others that reflects GOD’S LOVE FOR OTHERS.
2. Don’t underestimate who will surrender to God. (3b-5)
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Not Jonah’s whole sermon: The thesis of his sermon: YOU ARE IN DANGER. THERE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO TURN FROM YOUR SIN AND RECEIVE GRACE AND COMPASSION FROM GOD.
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Look at the response! The unthinkable happened: THE PEOPLE OF NINEVEH BELIEVED GOD.
- We have to camp out here for a moment: If we’re honest, when God tells us to get up and go, to THAT person, to that PLACE, at THAT time, in THAT way...We aren’t fully convinced it will make a difference.
- Don’t believe me? The litmus test.
We grossly underestimate what God can do.
- So here’s my encouragement and challenge to us tonight: Don’t underestimate who will surrender to God.
- Don’t underestimate what God will do! Expect Him to MOVE, because HE IS! HE DOES! Our faith grows as we experience His movement and as we are used by Him to lead people to salvation.
3. Take drastic action to live out your repentance. (6-9)
• We’re going to take a minute and lean back in to the great irony of this:
The King of Nineveh covers himself with sackcloth, sits in ashes. A fast has already been proclaimed. This nation is MOURNING THEIR SIN, and turning from it! ISRAEL=Not turning from their sin. Refuses to mourn. The very nation that will take Israel captive in 50 years into exile is the nation who is turning to the One True God.
• Repentance:
A. Begins with revelation. Proclaim WORD OF THE LORD.
B. Carried by faith(v. 5) We must believe before we repent.
C. Validated by action. People say the word repentance all the time but there’s no change of heart and mind. There’s a desire to avoid the consequences of disobedience, but a lack of desire to fully agree with God on what is GOOD, and CARRY IT OUT.
D. Effective by Emphasis. Illustration: Drastic changes that redefine and transform! (Golf swing?)
4. Receive the result of mercy: Peace With God (10).
- God saw their actions…not simply their lip service.
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God saw them turn from evil…not solely an acknowledgement of wrongdoing.
God relented...He did not do it. MERCY. Withholding what is truly deserved. -
Jonah under God’s judgment/wrath of the storm, rescued from death. (Ch. 2).
- Nineveh under God’s judgment/wrath now being delivered from death. Jesus has accomplished this for us.
Romans 5:1, 8-10
- Need for a Savior: The same opportunity available for Nineveh exists for you today: to turn from sin and trust in Jesus. He will come into your life, be your Lord and Savior, and give you a NEW BEGINNING.
- Need for a Fresh Start: Who needs one? Come to Him tonight and receive it through genuine repentance and faith in Him.
Main themes
1) Knowing and Doing the Will of God to Glorify God
2) God’s Mercy for the Nations of the World
-God’s GRACE to Nineveh & Jonah!
I. Cry Now or Cry Later (2:1-2)
-We saw that God’s Word to Jonah was ARISE-GO-CRY OUT; God’s Word is God’s Will. God will do what God will do.
-When we choose to forgo God’s plan, His will still prevails! Jonah still cried out— but it was not a cry of OBEDIENCE, but a cry from his AFFLICTION.
-God wasn’t trying to GET Jonah, but to show Him grace (not only for Nineveh!)
-When God chooses you and you go with Him, He doesn’t give up on you, even when YOU give up on you. He is serious about His pursuant love for His children; grace🡪”Undeserved merit🡪it’s waiting to be released by faith! -God doesn’t let you “OFF the hook” …for Jonah, he placed him as a worm ON the hook---he was prepared fish food for a prepared fish!
KEY: When God’s children won’t follow Him in obedience to His Word, He will discipline us until we cry for His deliverance.
Job 5:17
Proverbs 3:11-12
Hebrews 12:7-11
Was Jonah Saved? 🡪Arguably--Yes (Hebrews 12:8)
II. It’s Best to Agree with God: (2:3-9)
A) WHAT THE RELENTLESS GOD DID:
1) God cast him down: Jonah saw GOD as the one who cast him into the sea—not sailors! He knew that the waves/billows were from the Lord. -Prevailing Principle: In our heart of hearts, we know it is our sin (our running away from God’s best for us) that has caused the difficulty. If things are going to change for the better, the only thing left to do is to turn to God. (We GET what we GOT--We REAP what we sow! -Israel got the fruit of their rebellion.)
2) God disciplined him: Warren Wiersbe says we respond to God’s discipline in one of four ways:
a) Despise God’s discipline and fight
b) Get discouraged and faint
c) Resist discipline and invite more discipline🡪death
d) Submit to the Father; mature in faith
B) WHAT THE RELUCTANT PROPHET DID:
1) Forgot about God: v7… “remembered”—even when God had spoken to him, & clearly told him what to do, he had ignored God. But now he remembers.
2) Stopped praying to God: v7…the first thing we do when we forget (ignore) God is to stop talking to Him; Jonah 1 never mentions Jonah praying (even sailors prayed to God!)
3) Trusted in His own ‘Truths’: v8…like the Ninevites, he had believed the lies of the idols we make for ourselves…Jonah’s idols were PATRIOTISM [he wanted Israel’s safety more than Nineveh’s salvation!] and SELFISM [if Nineveh turned and God relented, Jonah was thought of as a “false prophet!”]
4) Knew to quote scripture and look to God: training/knowledge kicked in: parallels to many scriptures in Psalms 3-5-18-31-42-69-71-116-120; He knew God was not going to let him go, so he had to do something. He acquiesced. But as long as you continue on YOUR way, you forsake HIS mercy.
5) Did Jonah REPENT or did Jonah RELENT? I do not believe Jonah repented—but some do. He relented to be rescued… WHY?
-He quoted scripture, but never mentioned his sin
-Admitted sin before SAILORS but not before GOD
-Knew, felt bad, felt wrong, cried, but didn’t confess sin in agreement w/God;
-Blamed God for his plight; (look at all Blamers of scripture & today!)
-Avoided the issue of sin by making promises to God
-Repent: Turn from sin to God; not just doing right thing but being right w/God! -Jonah had a flawed view (incomplete) of obedience. He was clinging to what he thought would carry weight with God
1 Kings 8:37-40
-He did the right thing; said the right words, but did it really change his heart? But…Jonah DID confess something🡪 v9 “…Salvation is of the Lord!” ENOUGH!
Phil. 1:6
KEY: Even when our motives for surrender aren’t pure, God sees our future and works His plan in, through and for us.
III. Despite the Rebellion still in us, God works in Grace (2:10)
KEY: God meets us where we are to take us where we will be.
Hebrews 3:7-11- 7
-Jonah 2 tells us about Jonah, but even more so about GOD
Sermon Notes:
He relentlessly loves us, and has a plan for our lives, that serve a greater Mission that He is Sovereign over.
Even when we run from God, He runs to us.
Themes:
The Love & Grace Of God
How we relate to the Will of God
- He ran from the call & presence of the LORD. (1-3)
The word of the LORD:
TIMELY-> came at a specific time
URGENT-> Get up! Go!
SPECIFIC-> Great city of Nineveh Enemies of Israel.
GREATER-> -To preach against Nineveh was more than Jonah could handle on his own.
It was also because Jonah didn’t want the Assyrians in Nineveh to escape God’s judgment.
We can either use that as an opportunity to lean further into our Father and rely on Him as our source of peace and power, or we can operate out of FEAR & SELFISHNESS. Jonah chose the latter…(v.3)
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It may have been because he was given a difficult job to do. Nahum 3:1-4 gives us a good idea of how wicked the people of Nineveh were. Jonah had every reason to expect that at the very best, he would be mocked and treated as a fool. He might be attacked and killed if he did what the LORD told him to do.
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It was also because Jonah didn’t want the Assyrians in Nineveh to escape God’s judgment.
-He paid the fare cost of disobedience.
-Nevertheless, when you run away from the LORD, you never get to where you are going and you always pay your own fare. When you go the LORD’s way, you not only get to where you are going, but He provides the fare.
-We overestimate our ability to run (we cannot run from God, Psalm 139)
-We overestimate the rewards of doing what WE WANT.
-We underestimate the consequences of our disobedience.
- He became a curse instead of a blessing. (4-11)
Examples of people bringing trouble upon others because of their disobedience:
Abraham: Gen 12&20
Achan (Josh 7)
Here’s a spiritual lie we believe: My sin is my sin. It only affects me.
IRONY: The first prayer that occurs in the book of Jonah is not from God’s prophet, but from the pagans. They cry out to their different gods, and Hope/Peace, who comes from Faithful/True, is asleep. Finding his own self-peace in the wrong place.
Sleepy prophets that’s the condition of the church at large. Let’s be part of the movement of prophets and preachers who are waking up with a soul revival to engage lifelong in God’s Will for us.
The nature of Jonah’s sleep is also instructive, and too much like the sleep of the careless Christian:
· “Sleeping Christians” like to “hide out” among the Church.
· “Sleeping Christians” stay away from the work of the Lord.
· “Sleeping Christians” don’t like prayer meetings!
· “Sleeping Christians” don’t know what is really going on.
· “Sleeping Christians” are in danger, but don’t know it.
· “Sleeping Christians” snooze on while the world needs their message and testimony.
(Verse 6)
Irony: GET UP!! Wow…the very instruction God first gave to him, now the LORD speaks through this man. The rebuke is coming from the idolater, God is using this pagan captain as literally a “wake up call” to his prophet. GOD IS NOT GIVING UP ON JONAH. GOD IS NOT GIVING UP ON NINEVEH.
(Verses 7-9)
Jonah’s response provoked a terror within them. They knew the second he said he was a prophet that there was spiritual activity related to Jonah causing this massive storm to come.
(Verses 10-11)
He experienced the consequences of his rebellion. (12-17)
Irony: The men on the boat did more for Jonah than we did for them. They reject Jonah’s offer and work harder to NOT put him in danger, even though Jonah’s sin had jeopardized everyone’s safety aboard.
(Verses 14-17)
Jonah, as a disobedient prophet who rejected God’s Will, would have rather died than gone to Nineveh.
Jesus, as a perfect prophet, who was perfectly obedient to God’s will, gave His life sacrificially to save those far from God.
The more control we think we have, the more deceived we actually are.
God appointed
HE IS SOVEREIGN.
HE GETS US WHERE HE WANTS US, AND WHERE WE NEED TO BE.
Guest Pastor Nick Carnes focuses in on prayer. Why prayer? How important should prayer be for us? How should our posture be for prayer, and what does Jesus say about it?
Pastor Nick Carnes - Lead Pastor
Hope Church (formerly New Passion)
New Passion Church
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Anchor Church is rooted in 6 core values. In this sermon series, Pastor Brandon will unpack why each of these core values are essential within the DNA of Anchor Church (and within any Christ follower). This week is Mission. Why should we take ownership of the mission? What does Paul say about this? What is the mission? Let's unpack this core value in 2 Corinthians 4:1-6.
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Anchor Church is rooted in 6 core values. In this sermon series, Pastor Brandon will unpack why each of these core values are essential within the DNA of Anchor Church (and within any Christ follower). This week is Community. What does 'community' mean according to the Bible? What does it look like in the Bible and how can it be applied to us today? Let's discover why community is an important value for followers of Jesus the Christ
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Anchor Church is rooted in 6 core values. In this sermon series, Pastor Brandon will unpack why each of these core values are essential within the DNA of Anchor Church (and within any Christ follower). This week is Discipleship. What does discipleship mean, how was it modeled, and why is discipleship important to every believer of Jesus?
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Anchor Church is rooted in 6 core values. In this sermon series, Pastor Brandon will unpack why each of these core values are essential within the DNA of Anchor Church (and within any Christ follower). This week is Worship. Let's unpack what the Bible says about worship.
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Guest speaker from one of our wonderful Kingdom Focused Partner Churches, Dustin Driggers from Impact Church ( impactharlem.org ).
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As we take a break from the Esther series, welcome our guest speaker Phil Alcorn (New Passion Church)!
No matter how the world has defined you, God defines you as His and nothing less! God is inviting you to dine at his table for eternity. Will you accept the call?
2 Samuel 9:1-13
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In Week 2 of our Esther series, we dive deeper into the story of God's supernatural favor on a no-name Jewish girl and her rise to become Queen of Persia. We can trust God's Providence even when the plan doesn't make sense. Give a listen!
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What happens whenever you know that God is there, but you can't feel him? You are unable to see how he is working behind the scenes. What about when it seems like he is absent all together, with no mention whatsoever? Well God is always at work behind the scenes, and we will see how this plays out in our study of the book of Esther. We will see how, despite there being no mention of God, he is working diligently behind the scenes to turn a disaster into a masterpiece. Today we will hear Pastor Brandon set the scene in chapter 1 of Esther.
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In conclusion for the "You Asked For It" mini-series, Pastor Brandon answers additional questions the church submitted. Thank you for your questions and let's keep the conversation going!
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Your #1 Most Requested Question is on deck for our Sunday Morning Gathering: "Can we really trust the way the Bible was made?" If you've ever wondered how the Bible came to be and if we can trust the translations we have, this sermon is for you!
Note: Apologies for any audio issues, it was affecting Pastor Brandon's headset and we tried our best to mitigate it for this podcast!
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This week we dive into the 2nd most requested question from our church: "What does the Bible say about stress, anxiety, and depression?". Take a listen as Pastor Brandon explores what Psalm 42 and the ministry of Jesus has to do with stress, anxiety, and depression. You will hear how we can have hope in the midst of our emotional struggles in this life.
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Today Pastor Brandon unpacks our 3rd most requested question: How do I defend my faith? Anyone walking with Jesus can be equipped and trained to go and preach hope and offer sound biblical reasons for the Christian faith.
Note: There were some technical difficulties during the service which affected the audio recording. Thanks!
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Let's talk about the blessing that obedience brings! As parents discipline their children, children follow their parent's instruction, and as we do all of our work unto Christ alone, we will experience a spirit filled blessing!
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What does a Gospel Centered Marriage look like? Dive with us in Ephesians 5:22-33 as we examine 4 types of love that are essential to a thriving marriage!
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Join us in Ephesians 5:15-21 as we closely examine what it means to be a "Spirit Filled" Christian!
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God accomplishes great and mighty things through small, daily acts of obedience. Join our guest speaker, Dusty Wammack (Discipleship Pastor at Quest Church), as he walks us through the first half of Ephesians 5. Come and discover how God's truth helps us battle the sin in our lives, and how God offers us something so much better!
Today Pastor Brandon preached on Ephesians 4:25-5:2, a sermon entitled: "Walk In Love." In this sermon, we'll hear some very practical and foundational steps we can take towards walking in the way that Jesus calls us to live!
We're continuing in our Ephesians Study and unpacking the Old Life vs. New Life in Christ. What are the things Christ has delivered us from, and what has He saved us to do? How would Christ have us live? Dive in with us! Ephesians 4:17-24.
Join us in Ephesians 4:1-16 as we dive into the harmony between unity and diversity in the local church. Paul lays a theological foundation for living the Christian life, and it all starts with pursuing unity in love!
What's the big deal about baptism? Join us today as we dive into the what, when, who and why's of baptism.
Also, we just started our 21 days of Prayer. Visit our Facebook page each day to stay updated on what to pray for!
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Do you desire to be spiritually strong? Listen in as we unpack Ephesians 3:14-21 and hear 4 prayers for your soul that will change you forever.
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Today we are diving into 5 Ministry Mindsets we can embrace to reach our city for Jesus. Join us in Ephesians 3:1-13 and be encouraged to walk in boldness in the ministry Jesus has for you!
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Join us as we take a look at Ephesians 2:11-22. Christ tore down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, and because of what Jesus did, we are unified in the Gospel. Christ is building His Church to be His dwelling place!
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Today we explore Ephesians 2 and the grand story of the Christian testimony. Even while we are sinners, God made us alive and joined us to Christ. He saved us by His grace and created us for a special purpose: to glorify Him!
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Today we dive into 5 Prayers we can pray for our church and all churches in the Kingdom. Listen in as we unpack Ephesians 1:15-23!
Note: Due to technical difficulties, the audio will be slightly lower quality. Apologies in advanced!
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We start our Ephesians series by taking a close look at the spiritual gifts God has given us through Christ. Gazing at these blessings move us to praise Him!
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13th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. Pastor Brandon preaches from John 20 as we celebrate Jesus the #RisenLord. Mary encountered the resurrected Christ in a powerful way that restored her heart and propelled her into ministry!
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12th episode in our Jesus, No Filter series. Jesus came to give His life for us and be our 'once and for all' sacrifice! Join us in Luke 22:14-20 as we view Jesus as the #LambOfGod
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11th episode in our Jesus, No Filter series. Jesus was a master #Storyteller. Come and listen through Luke 16:1-13 as Pastor Brandon unpacks what Jesus says about how to manage our money well - not just for the 'here and now' but for eternal purposes.
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10th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. Listen as Pastor Chad guides us through John 15, where Jesus reveals He is the True Vine. If we stay connected to Jesus through faith and worship, He will produce fruit in our lives that will change us and our world. We abide in Jesus, He produces fruit, God the Father glorified!
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9th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. Join us in Luke 19:1-10 as Pastor Brandon encourages us to make Jesus' mission "to seek and save" our mission as well.
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8th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. Pastor Brandon preaches from John 10 as we listen to what Jesus says about His identity as the Good Shepherd.
Thank you for your support and suggestions to make the podcast platform a better experience for you. After this episode (hopefully!!), we will add an intro and outro sound byte to the podcast.
7th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series, today's sermon is from John 5:22-29. Jesus clearly teaches He is God and Judge of all the earth. If we miss Jesus as Judge, we miss Him entirely.
6th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. Pastor Brandon is preaching from Luke 8:40-56. Our world is in desperate need of healing, and Jesus came as "Healer" to restore lives and bring salvation to all. In this week's sermon, you will hear about the desperation and faith of two characters: Jarius and the woman in the crowd.
5th episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. What did Jesus actually say about the Church? Join us as Pastor Brandon dives deep into Jesus' unfiltered words about church, and why the church STILL matters.
4th episode in the 'Jesus, No Filter' series. Pastor Brandon will take us on a journey how the world has interpreted Jesus throughout generations. What does the Bible say?
3rd episode in the 'Jesus, No Filter' series. What does it mean that Jesus is "the Way"? Pastor Chad will guide us on what the Bible (and the world) says.
2nd Episode in our 'Jesus, No Filter' series. We will dive into what the Bible says how Jesus is the Son of Man.
Pastor Chad unpacks what it looks like to deal honestly with sin, humble ourselves before God, and run into the arms of the Father.
James 4:1-10