West Lynchburg: Recent Episodes
WLBC
West Lynchburg Baptist Church is magnifying the greatness of God for the joy of multiplying disciples.
What Kind of Father is God?
-
God is a Caring Father
-
God is a Consistent Father
-
God is a Close Father
-
God is a Capable Father
6 Ways to Understand God’s Will:
1) Predetermined Will, 2) Preceptive Will, 3) Permissive Will, 4) Persuasive Will, 5) Preferential Will, 6) Perceived Will
Beliefs about God’s Will:
1) God’s will is not a feeling, 2) God’s will is not a formula, 3) God’s will is a faithful fellowship
Barriers to following God’s Will:
1) Don’t be fatalistic about God’s will, 2) Don’t be fearful about God’s will, 3) Don’t be frustrated about God’s will
God's will for you is to...
1) Be Saved
2) Be Spirit-filled
3) Be Sanctified
4) Be Submissive
5) Be willing to Suffer
6) Be Satisfied
1) Recognize how you got here
- Remember - Refresh - Reassure
2) Recognize how you will move forward
- Accountability of mentors - members - ministers
The conduct of true forgiveness involves:
1) Receiving the offender (v8-14)
2) Restoring the relationship (v15-16)
3) Redeeming the offense (v17-18)
1) Faith in God (v4-5)
2) Love for People (v5)
3) Desire for Fellowship (v6)
4) Practice of Knowledge (v6)
5) Living for God’s Glory (v6)
6) Joy of Refreshing (v7)
1) Come Together to Relate v17-22
2) Come Together to Remember v23-27
3) Come Together to Repent v28-32
1) What we can DO and what we cannot DO
2) What we can KNOW and what we cannot KNOW
3) What we can EXPECT and what we cannot EXPECT
A heart to give is to...
-
Partner in ministry continually (4:14-16)
-
Please God sacrificially (4:17–18)
-
Prepare to receive from God richly (4:19)
-
Praise God for the gospel spreading victoriously (4:20–23)
Luke 10:25-37
4 Broken Relationships
1) with God
2) with Self
3) with Others
4) with Creation
-
Consider the Ministry of the Master (9:35)
-
Consider the Misery of the Masses (9:36)
-
Consider the Method of the Mission (9:37-38)
In Jesus, we have access to:
-
Resurrection Power
-
Exaltation Power
-
Lordship Power
-
Headship Power
From Genesis to Revelation, a “crimson cord” reveals the Lamb of God.
Consider the 9 notches of the “crimson cord”1. The Lamb Is Necessary—Genesis 3:21 and 4:1–4.
-
The Lamb Is Provided—Genesis 22:8, 13, 14.
-
The Lamb Is Slain—Exodus 12:1–7, 13. 4. The Lamb Must Be Perfect—Leviticus 22:21.
-
The Lamb Is Identified as a Suffering Savior—Isaiah 53:7
-
The Lamb Is Jesus!—John 1:29.
-
The Lamb Is to Be Proclaimed to the Nations—Acts 8:31–35.
-
The Lamb Is to Be Trusted for Salvation—1 Peter 1:18–21.
-
The Lamb Is to Be Worshiped—Revelation 5:6–10.
The Bible ends with a warning regarding the Lamb…
Rev. 21:27 "But nothing unclean will ever enter [Heaven], nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life.
The Lamb keeps a book containing all the names of those who are saved by grace through faith.
The Lamb shed his blood on that Good Friday… and all who trust in Him will have eternal life!
Have you come to the Lamb?
Just as I am, without one plea, But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, I come! I come!
-
Be Alert: You will face many battles
-
Be Humble: Don’t fight alone
-
Be Aware: Know who you are fighting
-
Be Equipped: Use ALL of God’s resources
-
Be Prayerful: Fight from your knees
1) Living under Authority
Principle - Precept - Promise
2) Leading from Authority
Method - Motive
3) Loving beyond Authority
Why did God design marriage?
1) Connection
2) Multiplication
3) Sanctification
-
Give yourself to God
-
Wives, give yourself to your husband
-
Husbands, give yourself to your wife
4) Reflection
1) The Steps of Affection “walk in love” v1-2
2) The Steps of Allegiance - “walk as children of light” v3-14
3) The Steps of Attention - “walk… as wise” v15-21
1) What are you waiting for? v1-2
Stop procrastinating and start progressing for the good of others and the glory of God.
2) Who are you living for? v3-6, 9-11
Let God's purposes determine your priorities.
Are you going to live for the immediate or the ultimate?
3) What are you playing for? v8
Run up the score in maximizing God's pleasure
4) Who are you counting on? v12-15
Crave God's source of your passion and power.
1) Transparent Relationships (v25)
2) Emotional Direction (v26-27)
3) Purposeful Work (v28)
4) Beneficial Words (v29-30)
5) Daily Workout (v31-32)
1) Old Identity: a. Ineffective b. Ignorant c. Insensitive d. Impure
2) New Identity: a. Relationship b. Receiving c. Renewing d. Righteousness
1) Unity includes Family (v1-10) - Calling - Character - Confession
2) Unity includes Diversity (v11-12) - Roles - Responsibilities
3) Unity includes Maturity (v13-16) - Thinking - Talking - Togethering
1) Pray for the Holy Spirit to convict a person of their sin (9)
2) Pray for the Holy Spirit to convict a person of God’s righteousness (10)
3) Pray for the Holy Spirit to convict a person of God’s judgment (11)
1) The Holy Spirit prays for us because we are weak
2) The Holy Spirit prays for us because we are ignorant
3) The Holy Spirit prays for us because we need God’s will
Scripture-fed, Spirit-led, Worship-driven Prayer.
Worship-driven prayer is built on a “4/4” Pattern.
1) Pray Upward (Reverence)
2) Pray Downward (Response)
3) Pray Inward (Requests)
4) Pray Outward (Readiness)
1) Prayer is an intimate affection
2) Prayer is an intentional protection
3) Prayer is an immediate connection
1) Peace is found in where you seek (8:19-22)
2) Peace is found in what you see (9:1-5)
3) Peace is found in Who you savor (9:6-7)
Luke 2:1-7Why was there no room for Jesus in the inn… because no one knew who he was.
We must make room for Jesus because of who He is!
Philippians 2:5-11
1) He is holy (v5-6)
2) He is humble (v7-8)
3) He is highly exalted (v9-11)
Joy can be found in what will be and not just what is.
1) Consider Mary and Elizabeth (Luke 1:39-45)
2) Consider the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-20)
3) Consider Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)
1) We have a sign of HOPE
Isaiah 7:14, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
2) We have a security of HOPE
Isaiah 53:5, “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”
3 Gifts for the Church
1) The Power of the Spirit (v14-16)
2) The Love of Christ (v17-19)
3) The Fullness of God (v19)
1) The Mystery is from God (v1-5)
2) The Mystery Includes You (v6)
3) The Mystery is through You (v7-13)
1) God’s family welcomes those without (v11-12)
2) God’s family rejoices in reconciliation (v13)
3) God’s family breaks barriers and builds unity (v14-22)
3 Misconceptions
1) We are basically good.
2) We get to heaven by sincerity and morality.
3) We are above average on God's grading scale.
3 Truths
1) Salvation by faith is needed because we are all spiritually dead
2) Salvation by faith is given because we could never earn it
3) Salvation by faith is effective because we are a part of God’s plan.
- To be WITHOUT Christ
Determined by our Condition: Who we are
Directed by Our Conduct: What we do
Destined by Our Consequences: Why it matters
- To be WITH Christ
Determined by God’s Character: Who He is
Directed by God’s Conduct: What He Does
Destined by God’s Compassion: Why it matters
We are blessed by:
1) The Father: Chosen in Him (v3-6)
a) God is Worthy of Blessing.
b) God is Willing to Bless
The Father blesses by…
a. Choosing us
b. Changing Us
c. Cherishing us
2) The Son: Redeemed in Him (v7-10)
The Son blesses by…
a. Redeeming us
b. Forgiving us
c. Uniting us
3) The Spirit: Sealed in Him (v11-14)
a. Convicting us - John 16:8
b. Guiding us - John 16:13
c. Confirms us - Rom 8:16
c. Seals us - Eph 1:13-14
1) The unexpected calling of God
2) The undeserved cleansing by God
3) The unconditional covering from God
1) Dream BIGGER for your identity (1:1)
2) Dream BIGGER for your ability (4:1)
3) Dream BIGGER for your stability (6:10-11)
Dream BIGGER Commitment: 100 * 1000 * $100,000
Luke 15
To advance to the goal we must pursue RTL's - Radically Transformed Lives Advancing to the Goal requires: 1) Compassion
2) Effort
3) Persistence
4) Celebration
What Unifies Us as a Team?
1) Our calling (Salvation)
2) Our convictions (Beliefs)
3) Our commitment (Church)
4) Our commission (Make Disciples)
5) Our character (Who We Are)
6) Our competence (What we do)
1) Our Singular Focus for Worship: The Lord (vv. 1a, 6b)
2) Our Significant Place for Worship: Heaven and Earth (v. 1b)
3) Our Sound Reasons for Worship: God’s Acts and Attributes (v. 2)
4) Our Sincere Expression for Worship: Instruments and Voices (vv. 3–6)
-
We are useless, but the Lord builds the house
-
We are selfish, but the Lord rewards us with children
• Children are a gift, not a burden
• Children are a protection to parents as they grow older
• Parents are overjoyed with a full house
-
Fear the Lord, not man
-
Provide a full house
-
God delights in blessing his family
-
Background of the author
-
Family History
-
Personal history
-
Interpersonal Relationship History
-
The ending
1) Do not compromise the Authority of God.
2) Seek after God’s Authority for your life with intentionality and intensity.
It is important (crucial and commanded) to teach the succeeding generations the faith passed down (vs 1-4)
1) We are to teach them in ways that they can understand (vs 2-3)
2) We are to teach them the failures of the past so that they won't repeat them (v. 8)
3) We are to teach them the great deeds and faithfulness of God (7)
4) We are to teach them that the Lord disciplines those whom He loves (v9-69)
5) We are also to teach them of God's great provision (V. 70-72)
Are you an enthusiastic worshipper?
Enthusiastic worship is external…
Shouts (v1) Thanks (v2) Sings (v3) Plays (v3)
3 Reasons Enthusiastic Worship is Possible
1) God speaks: His Powerful WORD (v4-9)
2) God plans: His Perfect PLAN (v10-12)
3) God sees: His Protective LOVE (v13-19)
Enthusiastic worship is internal...
Waits (v20) Trusts (v21) Hopes (v22)
1) Recognize the Plight of Man (v1-3)
a. Universal Rebellion (v1-2a); b. The Heart of Sin (v2b-3)
2) Regard God (v4-6)
a. The Position of God (v4a); b. The Disposition of God (v5 )
3) Rejoice in His Coronation (v7-9)
a. Preeminence (v7); b. Possession (v8); c. Power (v9)
4) Reconsider Your Ways (v10-12)
a. Reverence (v10-11a); b. Rejoicing (v11b); c. Refuge (v12)
Central theme of Psalms 42/43: “Finding renewed Hope when my soul is downcast.”
Sermon in a Sentence: “How do you talk to a downcast soul?”
(v.1-3) The Psalmist’s desperate thirst for God’s presence and his inner spiritual turmoil: Parched, Thirsty, Longing, Desperation, Weeping, Fasting.
(v.4) The Psalmist’s condition made worse by his bitter-sweet memories of worship with God’s people.
(v.5-11) The Psalmist's fight to overcome spiritual depression by talking “Hope” into his downcast soul. What do you say to a down-cast soul?
We learn the necessity to…
1) …be grateful towards God. (v1-3)
2) …experience God’s power and protection. (v4-7)
3) …live a Godly life (v8-14)
4) …allow God to be God (v15-22)
Psalm 32:1 “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Romans 4:7-8, “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered, blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”
Rom 3:10-11 “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.”
Mark 10:17-18, “And as He was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before Him and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone.”
Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Romans 3:21-25, “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.”
2 Corinthians 5:21, “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Psalm 4:1, “Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!”
Psalm 71:16, “With the mighty deeds of the Lord God I will come; I will remind them of your righteousness, yours alone.”
Psalm 24:5, “He will receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation.”
Gift #1 - God will give you passions that persist (v1-2)
Gift #2 - God will give you pursuits that prosper (v3-4)
Gift #3 - God will give you protections that are permanent (v5-6)
Psalm 34:8, Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
The Touch of Psalms
The Thumbnail of Psalms
The Themes of Psalms
-
Wisdom
-
Thanksgiving
-
Praise
-
Trust
-
Lament
-
Messianic
-
Judgment
The Takeaways of Psalms
-
Devotion
-
Immersion
-
Confession
-
Aspiration
-
Transformation
-
Application
I. Responsibilities to Our Pastor (v. 12-13)
-
Know Him
-
Respect Him
II. Responsibilities to Others (v. 14-15)
-
Warn the Loafers
-
Encourage the Timid
-
Support the Weak
-
Be Patient With Everyone
-
Don’t Seek Revenge
III. Responsibilities to God (v. 16-18)
-
Be Joyful
-
Be Prayerful
-
Be Thankful
The Transformed Christian (Romans 12:1-2)
… is made by the mercies of God
… is a living sacrifice offered to God
… is not conformed to this world
… is changed by the renewal of their mind
… is able to discern the will of God
1) Patiently Live as a worshipper (v7-12)
2) Prayerfully love as a community (v13-18)
3) Purposely Lead as a servant (v19-20)
1) Patiently Live as a worshipper (v7-12)
A. Patience rests with trusting in the truth (v7-11)
B. Patience refrains from pride and presumption (v9 & 12)
C. Patience receives from God-honoring examples (v7, 11-12)
Patience is modeled in the life of…
-
Farmers = God is in control (5:7b)
-
Prophets = God is faithful (5:10)
-
Job = God is caring (5:11)
POLLUTION IN THE HUMAN HEART (4:1–5, 11–13, 16–17)
- The root of the problem (2): jealousy and selfishness, hedonism
*The fruit of the problem (1–5, 11–13, 16–17) - Constant fighting and quarreling (1) - Killing (2a) - Lack of genuine prayer (2,3) - loving the world (4) - slandering (11,12) - Boasting about the future (13,16,17) - Abuse of people and possessions (5:1-6)
SOLUTION FOR THE HUMAN HEART (4:6–10, 14–15)
1) Humility in God (4:1-10)
a. Refuse the Flesh by requesting from God (v1-3)
b. Reject the World by relying on God (v4-5)
Four dangerous steps that take the believer into a wrong relationship with the world:
(1) friendship with world, James 4:4
(2) being stained by the world, James 1:27
(3) love with the world, 1 John 2:15–17
(4) conformity to the world, Rom. 12:1–2
c. Resist the Devil by repenting in God (v6-10)
10 actions of repentance:
-
SUBMIT to God.
-
RESIST the devil.
-
DRAW NEAR to God & He will draw near to you.
-
CLEANSE your hands.
-
PURIFY your hearts.
-
GRIEVE 7. MOURN 8. WEEP 9. BE TURNED
-
HUMBLE yourself before the Lord.
2) Dependency on God (4:1-5:6
a. with People (v11-12)
b. with Plans (v13-17)
c. with Possessions (5:1-6)
HOPE: Four Certainties We Have With Jesus (1 Peter 1:3)
-
With Jesus, we have a GREAT MERCY.
-
With Jesus, we have a NEW BIRTH.
-
With Jesus, we have a LIVING HOPE.
-
With Jesus, we have a RISEN LORD.
Mark 15:39 “And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!
1) I love you!
2) YES! I will go to the cross for you!
3) IthHurts!
4) I keep my promises!
5) I am innocent but died for your guilt!
6) You are guilty but can receive my innocence!
7) It is finished!
8) I give you purpose!
9) Eternal life starts now!
James 1 - we can be unshakable because of the wisdom of God
James 2 - we can be unshakable by faith in what we do.
James 3 - we can be unshakable with our speech.
Matt. 12:34 “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
3 primary characteristics of an unshakable faith that speaks:
1) Faith Speaks with Maturity (3:1-5)
2) Faith Speaks with Consistency (3:6-12)
3) Faith Speaks with Purity (3:13-18)
KEY PHRASE - "the wisdom from above is first pure"
- Purity has the right deeds (13-16)
- Our Wisdom is revealed in our habits (13)
- Our Habits reveal our heart (14)
- Our Heart reveals either heaven or hell (15-16)
- Purity has the right seeds (17-18)
- It is ‘pure’ - free from everything that characterizes false wisdom.
- It is ‘peaceable’- delights in peace and promotes peace.
- It is ‘gentle’- not combative and abrasive. It is reasonable and courteous.
- It is ‘open to reason’ - willing to yield, open to reason, and doesn’t insist on its rights.
- It is ‘full of mercy’ - showing compassion to those who are in need.
- It is ‘full of … good fruits’ - rich in Christ-like living
- It is ‘impartial’ - not showing favoritism.
- It is ‘sincere’ - sincere and genuine, mature, consistent, and pure.
Application:
1. Pray - repent from your actions and receive God’s wisdom
- Spend extended time in confession over your speech. Consecrate your mouth.
2. Practice - list the ways you sin with your mouth:
- lying, complaining, swearing, gossiping, boasting, whining, criticizing, etc.
- For each of these, find a Godly replacement: Truth-telling, thanking, blessing, praising, encouraging, cheering, etc.
- Each day, consciously practice each one.
3. Parole - Put your tongue on parole.
- Release your tongue on the promise of good behavior.
- Force it to meet with an accountability partner (Parole officer) every week. Tell others what you are working on, and have them call you to account.
James 1 - we can be unshakable because of the wisdom of God
James 2 - we can be unshakable by faith in what we do.
James 3 - we can be unshakable with our speech.
3 primary characteristics of an unshakable faith that speaks:
- Maturity, Consistency, and Purity
Matt. 12:34 “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
1) Faith Speaks with Maturity (3:1-5)
KEY PHRASE - "he is a perfect man" (v2)
-
maturity has accountability (v1)
-
maturity has authority (v2-3)
-
maturity has agility (v4)
-
maturity has ability (v5)
2) Faith Speaks with Consistency (3:6-12)
KEY PHRASE -"these things ought not to be so." (v10)
-
Consistency has direction(6)
-
Consistency has discipline (7-8)
-
Consistency has delight (9-12)
Next week, we will focus on speaking with purity.
James, in chapter 2, warns us of the danger of being confused in the area of having a faith that is false!
4x in this section, James makes it very clear.
- v14: “if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?”
- v17: “Faith by itself … is dead.”
- v20: “Faith apart from works is useless.”
- v26: “Faith apart from works is dead.”
James picks up on Jesus’ warning from Matthew 7:21
Paul also warned in 2 Corinthians 13:5
-
Faith is more than words (2:14-17)
-
Faith is more than belief (2:18-19)
-
Faith is more than actions (2:20-26)
For a moment, examine your heart:
-
Has there been a time when I honestly admitted I am a sinner in need of God's grace & forgiveness?
-
Do I truly understand the Gospel (good news), that Christ died for my sins and arose again?
-
Do I understand and confess that I cannot save myself?
-
Have I sincerely repented of my sins and turned away from sin and toward Christ?
-
Have I trusted Christ and Christ alone for my salvation?
-
Do I enjoy an active, loving relationship with God through prayer, the Bible, and His Holy Spirit?
-
Has there been a change in my life? Though I am not perfect, do I desire to obey His word and grow in His ways?
-
Am I living in such a way that others would not be surprised that I follow Jesus?
-
Do I love Jesus enough to tell others about His wonderful saving grace?
-
Do I enjoy the fellowship of God’s people and seek to worship God with the church often?
-
Do I look forward to the Lord’s return and will not be ashamed when He comes for me?
Psalm 139:23-24
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!
1. We live to remove the darkness (2:1)
2 Cor 4:4, “In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
2 Cor 4:6, “For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
2. We live to remove the distinctions (2:2-13)
- God condemns (v2-4)
* God chooses (v5-6a)
2 Cor 8:9, For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.
-
God calls (v6b-7)
-
God corrects (v8)
-
God convicts (v9-11)
-
God commends (v12-13)
Paul points to a few realities of joy that bring unity:
1. We are partners (1:3-5) - Joy comes with a partnership
- The Philippians church is part of something much bigger than themselves
2. We are a work in progress (1:6) - Joy comes with progress
3. We are united (2:1-2) - Joy comes with unity
Paul calls us to unity in our thinking, love, passion, and purpose.
(v3-5) We are called to unite with the mind of Christ which is thinking with humility.
(v6-8) We are called to unite with sacrificial love.
(v9-11) We are called to unite with passion.\v9-11) We are called to unite with purpose.
- This call is more implicit than explicit in the text.
…every knee should bow…and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord…
- When we pray… we give… and we go God blesses with joy!
IN 5 WEEKS WE CELEBRATE THE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD
For the next 5 weeks, leading up to Easter…
-
Let’s unite to pray for those who need Christ by name!
-
Let’s unite to invite every home between WLBC & Chestnut Hill to an Easter service!
-
Let’s unite to share the gospel with anyone and everyone we have the opportunity to!
-
Let’s unite to give to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering to impact North America.
Go to wlbc.life/united
1) Pay Attention to Righteousness (v19-20)
- quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger
2) Put aside to Receive (v21)
- Delight to receive
- Condition to receive
- Manner to receive
- Incentive to receive
3) Prove an abiding (enduring, everlasting)Religion (v22-27)
- Don’t be Deceived (v22)
- Don’t be Distracted (23-25)
- Don’t be Defiled (v26-27)
- control your words (the goal is truth)
- care for the widows and orphans (the goal is love)
- consecrate from the world (goal is pure and undefiled religion)
Romans 12:1-2
1) Understand Temptation (v13-16)
God is not the source of your battles.
v 13 – Stop Blaming God
v 14 – Start Accepting Responsibility
v 15-16 – Stop Being Deceived
6 stages of temptation: 1) Attraction 2) Deception 3) Preoccupation 4) Conception 5) Subjection 6) Desperation
Antitode to the temptations and lies of Satan: We need a deep-seated conviction of the absolute, unchanging goodness of God
2) Understand Triumph (v17-18)
God is the source of all your blessings
-
Rather than thinking God is a hindrance in your life (so many in the world do)...
-
See Him as your greatest strength to overcome your inner battles.
-
Victory in this life (& life to come) is always with God! Never apart from Him.
v 17 - Triumph comes through receiving.
v18 - Triumph comes through representing.
Closing prayer:
Psalm 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; 24 And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way.”
I. Lean on our THREE resources (v5-8)
a. wisdom (5 If any of you lacks wisdom)
b. prayer (let him ask God)
-
first - you have to be conscious of your lack of wisdom
-
second - be willing to humble yourself to ask God
-
lastly - trust that God is able and willing to supply our deficiencies
[God] who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him..
-
"gives" – God is an open-handed giver (Ps 145:16, “You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.)
-
"to all" – the invitation to ASK God is open to all who will humbly admit they have a need and seek Him to fulfill that need
-
"generously" – or liberally, nothing withheld, He gives MORE THAN ENOUGH
-
"without reproach" – He is not critical of our asking or desiring from Him.
Alexander MacLaren, “If we only believed that He gives simply because He loves us and that we need never fear our unworthiness will limit or restrain His bestowments, what mountains of misconceptions of the divine character would be rolled away from many hearts!”
3. faith – Our prayers are only effective if asked in faith “6 But let him ask in faith,”
faith in His ability – faith in His willingness
II. Learn from our TWO representatives (v9-11)
a. Poverty (pain) 9 Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation
b. Prosperity (pleasure) 10 and the rich in his humiliation,
3. Look forward to our TWO rewards (v12)
1. Blessed - 12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under (or through) trial,
2. Crown of Life - for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
1) Joy is an internal perspective - Attitude
Count it all joy, my brothers, when
My brothers – family and pastoral tone
JOY is the overarching attitude of this passage.
Count – consider – in your inward mind and heart, put a stake in the ground of JOY
When–not IF, but when
v2 when you meet trials of various kinds,
- trials are going to happen… Don’t be surprised.
Troubles, disappointments, and hardships are not only possible; they are inevitable and unavoidable.
- “meet” – circumstances you fall into, face, unexpected.
Believing in God and trusting in Christ provides a very blessed life... but at no time does Jesus tell us it will be an easy life.
Various – we have no idea what form the trials will come. Sometimes simply frustrating, other times catastrophic
Phillips paraphrase, “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!”
Not joy because of your trials. But joy regardless of trials!
Trials come & go… but our position and purpose in Christ remain!
The reality is - as spirit-filled Christians, we triumph through the trials
Our JOY is an internal reality giving us a perspective on ALL circumstances
2 Cor 7:4, “In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.”
2) Growth is a faith process - v3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.
Knowledge brings a peace and confidence that no rumor or circumstance can take away.
When you know… you stop listening to the noise.
If you knew you had ONE MILLION dollars* in your walk-in home safe. AND you were laid off or the stock market crashed with your retirement account. You would NOT be worried about your next meal. - 2 Cor 1:5**
* If you knew you had chicken laying eggs, you wouldn’t worry about egg prices. Rom 8:17
* If you knew you were completely loved by Christ, you would worry about seeking everyone’s approval. Matthew 5:11-12
* If you knew you have an eternal home with Christ, then you face death differently. 1 Peter 4:13, Heb 10:34
Three results of trials
- purity - (testing of your faith) authenticating) 1 Peter 1:7
- patience - produces steadfastness (endurance, staying power, unswerving constancy)
- perfection 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
3) Cooperation is a way to perfection
4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Let - cooperate with God’s work in you and through you.
God never builds our character without our cooperation.
If we resist Him, He disciplines us.
If we submit to Him, He makes us like Jesus and perfects us.
God is never satisfied with an unfinished person. He is looking for completion.
He who began a good work WILL carry it on to completion! – Philippians 1
1) Who is the real James?
Son of Joseph & Mary, brother of Jesus
Matthew 13:55, “Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas?
Mark 6:3, “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James & Joses and Judas (Jude 1:1) and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?”
JAMES is the 2nd born in a family where the 1st born was perfect & never sinned.
James did not believe in Jesus - John 7:1-5
James through Jesus was crazy - Mark 3:20-21
James tried to interrupt Jesus - Matthew 12:46-50
James was NOT an apostle and he was not even a follower of Jesus. James didn’t even attend the funeral of Jesus!
So how did he get to write a book of the Bible?
James' Conversion - 1 Cor 15:3-7
James was invited to the Upper Room - Acts 1:13-14
James became the 1st Pastor of Jerusalem - Acts 12:17, Gal 1:18-19, Gal 2:9
Historians have found ancient writing referring to James as James “The Just” - Acts 15:13, Acts 21:17-18
This book is written between AD 48-62, most likely 48-52.
Hegesippus quoted by early church father Eusebius said, “James prayed so much; his knees were as hard as those on a camel – camel knees.”
James was martyred in 62 A.D. As he was dying, James prayed as did his Lord Jesus, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
2) What is the real message?
1:1-18 Unshakable Faith Endures
1:19-27 Unshakable Faith Does
2:1-13 Unshakable Faith Removes
3:1-18 Unshakable Faith Speaks
4:1-5:6 Unshakable Faith Produces
5:7-20 Unshakable Faith Triumphs
1. Because God is in control,MY PLANS HAVE A LIMIT.
2. Because God is in control, MY PROBLEMS HAVE A PURPOSE.
3. Because God is in control, MY PRAYERS HAVE AN IMPACT.
1) WHEN do we need to Call Upon God for Power?
A. We need God’s power to Get Started!
B. We need God’s power to Keep Going!
2) HOW do we Call Upon God for Power?
a. Admit our lack of power and ASK (Eph 3:20)
b. Believe by Faith and THINK (Eph 3:12 & 20)
c. Connect to DO. (Eph 3:20-21)
4 essentials to Calling Upon God for Joy:
Call Upon God for…
1) A Perspective to Live From (v12-14)
(v12) I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel
-
It affects unbelievers (v13) so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.
-
It encourages believers (v14) And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Courage is contagious. Paul’s boldness encouraged Christians to be bold.
Romans 8:28, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
2) A Priority to Live By (v15-18)
15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. 16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment
Paul’s response to his critics (v18) What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice.
So What priority should I live by?
Proverbs 3:6, “In all your ways acknowledge him, & he will make straight your paths.”
For a perspective to live from, pray “God help me see like You see”
For a priority to live by, pray "God help me acknowledge you & value what You value”
3) A Power to Live On (v19-20)
Paul’s has 2 sources of strength (v19-20)
Yes, and I will rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, 20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
-
Prayers of the Saints.
-
Provision of the Spirit.
4) A Purpose to Live For (v21-26)
Paul’s purpose for living (v21) - For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Paul says, “My purpose is clear.” So, how do you fill in this blank? "For me to live is__."
-
"For me to live is possessions." Accumulation of stuff. Life, liberty & purchase of happiness. The tragedy is many people have so much to live on yet nothing to live for.
-
"For me to live is pleasure." I just want to have fun. If it feels good, do it. I love to travel, to take vacations, drink this, smoke that, play golf, anything that brings me pleasure. The ultimate goal in life is just to have fun.
-
“For me to live is prestige." Power, status, popularity, position. I want other people to look up to me. How many followers do I have? Will I go viral? We live in the most narcissistic culture in human history.
Phil 3:13-14, “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Invest your life in something that will outlast it.
Psalm 50:14-15, "Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.”
In 2023, we must develop a...
1) Heart of Thanksgiving
2) Habit of Obedience
3) Humility of Prayer
Numbers 24:17, "I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel;"
Micah 5:2, "But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days."
Wise men -
1) Sought the truth
2) Caught the joy
3) Brought their worship/gifts
- Gold - Royalty - King
- Frankincense (incense) - Divinity - Preist
- Myrrh - Prophet - Humanity (death and burial)
A Christmas at Home is one that has:
- Sought truth through Christ
- Caught the joy that only He can bring
- Brought their heart of worship and praise to the only One deserving.
Worship is elevated by...
1) Living & Loving God's Covenant of Marriage (2:10-16)
2) Living & Loving God's Commitment to Men (2:17-3:6)
3) Giving & Growing Our Best (1:6-2:9) 4) Giving & Growing Our All (3:7-12)
5) Trusting & Turning to God’s Promise of Glorification of God (1:1-5)
God is Love (v2) PAST
God is Loyal (v2-4) - PRESENT
God is Limitless (v5) - FUTURE
6) Trusting & Turning to God’s Promise of Restoration (of a Remnant) (3:13-4:6)
God will... * Reject the fearless
God will... * Remember the faithful
God will... * Restore the family
Worship is elevated by...
1) Living and Loving God's Covenant of Marriage
2) Living and Loving God's Commitment to Men
Malachi: Empty Religion or Vibrant Faith with Possessions
Worship is elevated by...
1) Giving and Growing Our Best (1:6-2:9)
2) Giving and Growing Our All (3:6-12)
4-Month Giving Challenge - wlbc.life/four/
Here, worship is broken. It is not acceptable.
Presence & emotion are not enough! Sunday worship is only as valid as your life all week
Worship is either helped or hindered by: how we treat people - possessions - God’s promises
Malachi writes with a Chiastic structure: a literary technique working from the center outward.
Worship is elevated by… 1) Living and Loving God's Covenant of Marriage (2:10-16)
We have ONE Father... One Creator... One Lord that we follow
Yet, we profane the sanctuary (worship) of the Lord in 2 Ways:
-
marrying those who do NOT follow the Lord
-
divorcing a spouse that DOES follow the Lord
2) Living and Loving God's* Commitment to Mankind (2:17-3:5)**
The injustice of the people:
1) link with sorcerers (fortunetellers) - dabbling in the occult, horoscopes,
2) lust for the flesh (adulterers) - sing against your spouse or future spouse
3) language of falseness (swear falsely) - life about someone and to someone
4) larceny in finances (oppress wage earner) - stealing from othere
5) lawlessness among families (widow and fatherless/orphans) - oppressing the vulnerable, having no power to protect themselves.
6) liability toward foreigners (turn aside the alien) - people not from here and not like us
This list of injustices reveals the practices in Malachi’s time and even our own days.
This is not an exhaustive list, but does indicate areas opposed to God’s law
Antagonist or apathetic?
What’s the difference between indifference to injustice and injustice? Not much!
Or perhaps you have been an accuser. Seeing injustice, you accuse God of not caring.
Our view and actions with injustice in this world testify our relationship with God
God’s answer to the injustice… was to send 2 messengers
-
3:1 “Behold, I send my messenger (John the Baptist), and he will prepare the way before
-
3:1b “the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
This last Messager will set ALL things right!
Do you trust God?
Is He your ONE FATHER…. ONE CREATOR?
How is your worship? How is it displayed in your home? In your life? In your interactions with the hurting and hopeless?
Jesus has come… has He come to you? To your heart?
Do you delight in Him and demonstrate His love to others?
Everyone can persevere by understanding 3 life-changing truths:
Truth #1: Suffering produces perseverance.
All sufferings are not the same and there are three basic types of sufferings.
a) Suffering to bring you back to God
b) Suffering for others benefit for God’s glory
c) Suffering as a Christian in a non-Christian world
Truth #2: Perseverance produces character.
Truth #3: Character produces hope
Stand for Truth - 1 Timothy 4:1-9
We are in a Spiritual War
1 Tim 4:1 “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,”
Deceit is Satan’s most powerful weapon. It looks like truth from the outside, but as we get closer, sometimes it raises questions that we choose to ignore.
1 Tim 4:2 “through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,”
Other Gospels Are Present
We are in a spiritual war and there are other gospels that are being presented as truth, but they’re twisted lies from Satan trying to lure us.
1 Tim 4:3 “who (the teachers from v1) forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth...”
Pressure from our Culture
Our culture today encourages these same teachings. As a society we are bombarded about these same practices.
Knowing the truth is so important. In a world that doesn’t know truth, we have to keep our eyes focused on God’s truth, the truth above all else. That truth is found in Scripture.
1 Tim 4:4-5 “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.”
God only creates good things.
1 Tim 4:6 “If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.”
Paul has given Timothy this warning and he wants him to spread that warning to others in the church he is leading.
This is the first act of obedience that Paul is telling Timothy to do in this section.
Become a Student of the Bible
We need a trainer. We need to train each other. If we are in a spiritual war, you don’t go to war without proper training.
Same with us as followers of Jesus. Many of us haven’t been properly trained.
Bible App Plan - Delights and Disciplines of Bible Study - 4 day plan that will get you started.
1 Tim 4:7 “Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness;”
Focus on obeying God. Don’t get distracted with superficial things.
1 Tim 4:8 “for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”
God’s Words are Supreme
When reading the Bible at least 4 times a week
-
Loneliness drops 30%
-
Anger drops 30%
-
Getting drunk drops 55%
-
Sexual sins drop 65%
1 Tim 4:9 “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance.”
Stay focused on obedience to Jesus
3 consistent standards to set in order in every generation of the church
1) Raise Godly Leaders
- What Leaders are to be:
FAMILY -CHARACTER - GIFTING
- What Leaders are to do:
Protect the flock - Rebuke and Restore
2) Reproduce Growing Disciples
Older men - Older women
Younger women - Younger men
3) Reach Grace-starved People
Grace redeems us - reforms us - rewards us
Reach people by how we live in this world and by how you lead in this world
117 year anniversary of West Lynchburg Baptist Church
Eph 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Envision a church where…
1) God’s ability is exhibited (v20) - “Now to him who is able to do”
2) Our aspirations are exceeded (v20) - far more abundantly than all that we ask or think
3) The Body is empowered (v20) - according to the power at work within us
4) Christ is exalted (v21) - to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
5) Discipleship is essential (v21) - throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Let's embrace and apply Ephesians 3:20-21 and envision for the next year…
- 100 new worship attenders
- 100% of worship attendance in groups
- 1,000 new evangelistic touches
- $100,000 given beyond the proposed budget impacting ministry locally & globally
Soli Deo gloria is the motto that grew out of the Protestant Reformation and was used on every composition by Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel with the letters “SDG”
Romans 11:36, “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”
We may often use the phrase glory of God, but what does it mean?
The glory of God is the holiness of God put on display that arrests our attention and our allegiance. That is, it is the infinite worth of God made manifest.
John Piper, “God’s glory is the outward radiance of the intrinsic beauty and greatness of His manifold perfections.”
The joy of the Christian life is in Seeing & Savoring His glory
1) We see God’s glory in His worth
Isa 6:3, John 17:5
Was Jesus’ lacking glory? No… Phil 2:6-7
2) We see God’s glory in His works
2 Thess 1:9, Psalm 19:1, Ephesians 1:6, Psalm 21:5
Seeing His glory & Savoring His glory!
Ralph D. Winter (Missiologist) “The great sin of the world is not that the human race has failed to work for God so as to increase his glory, but that we have failed to delight in God so as to reflect his glory.”
1) We savor God’s glory in our desire
1 Cor 10:31, Isaiah 43:7
“Theologians of glory” and “Theologians of the cross”
“Theologians of glory” seek power FROM God to become great-known-strong (Philippians 3:19)
“Theologians of the cross” - Jn 3:30
Live as a Worshipper - Romans 12:1
1 Chronicles 16:10, Psalm 105:3, Philippians 3:3, Philippians 4:19, 1 Peter 5:10
2) We savor God’s glory in our declaration -
Ps 96:1-3, Isaiah 66:18-19, Matthew 5:16
3) We savor God’s glory in our destination
Colossians 3:4, Romans 5:2, Jude 24, Romans 8:18
David Livingstone (Scottish physician and pioneer Christian missionary) “Anxiety, sickness, suffering, or danger, now and then, with a foregoing of the common conveniences and charities of this life, may make us pause, and cause the spirit to waver, and the soul to sink; but let this be only for a moment. All these are nothing when compared with the glory which shall hereafter be revealed in, and for, us.”
Do you see His glory? -
Do you savor His glory?
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
2 important truths: grace means 1) God is Good 2) We are not
Romans 3:10-12, “as it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.”
1) What is Grace?
2) Why do I need Grace?
Apart from the grace of God, we were …
-
So dead that only God can make us alive- Ephesians 2:1, 4-5
-
So blind that only God could give us sight - 2 Corinthians 4:4,6
-
So sinful that only God could cleanse us -Psalm 51:5, 7
-
So heart sick only God can heal us - Jeremiah 17:9,14
-
So lost that only God could find & save us -Luke 19:10
-
So helpless that only God could change us - Jeremiah 13:23
3) What difference does GRACE make?
-
GRACE destroys all human self-confidence. - Romans 3:23
-
GRACE frees us from earning God’s favor. - Romans 3:24
-
GRACE enables us to serve God without fear. - Romans 3:25
“Rock of Ages” - Nothing in my hands I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling; Naked, come to Thee for dress, Helpless, look to Thee for grace: Foul, I to the fountain fly, Wash me, Savior, or I die.
"Grace Greater Than Our Sin”
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin
VERSE 3
Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe,
All who are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?
There are 2 key bible passages that help us with this important doctrine.
1) Romans 1:16-17
2) Romans 3:28
1) What is justification?
It means “to declare righteous”
BF&M. Justification is God’s gracious and full acquittal upon principles of His righteousness of all sinners who repent and believe in Christ. Justification brings the believer unto a relationship of peace and favor with God. (IV.B)
2) Why are we unable to justify ourselves?a. Good works can’t cancel your sin, but sin will ruin your good works.
b. Good works can’t save you because God doesn’t grade on a curve. - James 2:10
C. Good works can’t save you because it will never be enough.
D. Good works can’t save you because you can never be sure enough.
E. Good works can’t save you because if they could there’d be no need for Jesus.
It’s either all Jesus or all you.
3) How are we justified?How, then, are we saved? If not by our own good works, how will we get to heaven?
If not by our righteousness, then where will we find the righteousness we need?
The word used in the Reformation by both Martin Luther and John Calvin was the application of an “alien righteousness.” The word “alien” simply means “from another place or person.”
To say that we are saved by ‘alien righteousness’ means that we are saved by righteousness that comes “from another place or person.” It comes not from within us as a result of our good deeds, but from outside of us entirely.
Where can a guilty sinner find righteousness “from another place?” Only in Jesus.
Romans 8:33-34, “Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us”
4) Justification includes four truths
Justified by God’s Grace - Romans 3:24 justified by his grace as a gift
Justified by Christ’s Blood - Romans 5:9 we have now been justified by his blood
Justified without Our Works - Romans 4:5 one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,
Justified by Faith Alone - Romans 3:28 one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.
Matthew 16:13-18,
v13 “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”... v15 “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Acts 4:12, And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
1 Co 3:11 For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Without Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5) In Christ, we can do all things (Phil. 4:13).
Christ the Prophet
Christ is the Prophet who instructs us in the things of God so we may be healed of our blindness and ignorance.
Heidelberg Catechism calls Jesus "our chief Prophet and Teacher, who has fully revealed to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our redemption" (A. 31).
2000 BF&M, "Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God…” (II.B)
Deuteronomy 18:15, Matt. 17:5
A Christian can only grow as we listen & heed the instructions and teachings of Jesus!
Christ the Priest
Christ is also Priest — our greatly needed and perfect High Priest!
Heidelberg Catechism, "by the sacrifice of His body, has redeemed us, and makes continual intercession with the Father for us" (A. 31).
1689 London Baptist Confession, "because of our estrangement from God and the imperfection of our services at best, we need his priestly office to reconcile us to God and render us acceptable to him" (8.10).
2000 BF&M, "He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His substitutionary death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin." (II.B.)
Two conditions of Salvation
1) The first is to satisfy the justice of God through obedience to the law.
2) The second is to pay the price of our sins.
We cannot accomplish either, but Christ did both perfectly.
Romans 5:19, Romans 5:10
Christ the King
Finally, Christ is the King, ruling over all things.
He reigns over the church by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:30–33).
Acts 5:31, “God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.”
Heidelberg Catechism, A 31) Christ is "our eternal King who governs us by His word and Spirit, and who defends and preserves us in the enjoyment of that salvation, He has purchased for us"
2000 Baptist Faith & Message (IX) "The Kingdom of God includes both His general sovereignty over the universe and His particular kingship over men who willfully acknowledge Him as King.”
2000 Baptist Faith & Message (IX) “Particularly the Kingdom is the realm of salvation into which men enter by trustful, childlike commitment to Jesus Christ.
Sola Scriptura - Scripture alone - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The Five Solas:
-
Sola Scriptura = Scripture Alone
-
Solus Christus = Christ Alone
-
Sola Gratia = Grace Alone
-
Sola Fide = Faith Alone
-
Soli Deo Gloria = To the Glory of God Alone
Sola Scriptura – Defined
Baptist Faith and Message I. The Scriptures - The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired and is God's revelation of Himself to man. It is a perfect treasure of divine instruction. It has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter. Therefore, all Scripture is totally true and trustworthy. It reveals the principles by which God judges us, and therefore is, and will remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions should be tried. All Scripture is a testimony to Christ, who is Himself the focus of divine revelation.
2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
This was Martin Luther’s conviction - Consider 1517, 1519, 1521
October 31, 1517 - 95 Theses nailed to Wittenberg Church door
July 4, 1519 - June and July - Luther and Eck Debate in Leipzig
April 16-18, 1521 - The Diet of Worms
Sola Scriptura – Directs
Directs our worship
Directs our preaching and teaching
Directs our love for one another
Directs our missions and evangelism
Directs our stewardship of time, talents, and treasure
Directs our spiritual disciplines like prayer, scripture engagement, fasting, etc
Directs our church purpose, polity, and practices
The Bible is more than merely descriptive, it is prescriptive and instructive
Sola Scriptura - Declares
It puts the PRO in PROTEST and the PROTEST in PROTESTANT
Pro = for
Protest = usually used as against but actually means “to make solemn declaration or affirmation of”
Many have heard what the church is against... BUT what is the church FOR?
WE MUST BE FOR WHAT THE BIBLE IS FOR!
-
We are for the repentance of all people and the regeneration that comes by faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is found ONLY in Jesus - He is the way, truth, and life
-
We are for a healthy, biblical church designed as He commanded!
-
We are for unity between people of different backgrounds, nationalities, skin colors, and languages under the truth of Christ
-
We are for LIFE, from the womb until the tomb, because life is God’s gift!
-
We are for healthy, biblical marriages between a husband and a wife!
It is time to go back to the simple truth taught in the children’s songs
“The B-I-B-L-E, Yes That’s the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, the B-I-B-L-E.”
“Jesus loves this I know…. For the Bible tells me so!”
2 Corinthians 5:11-21
5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
How do I go public with my faith?
1) Become a new Creation!
Romans 10:9-10
2) Be Baptized
The first important steps of faith. Baptism is a physical illustration of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus instructs every Christ-follower to be baptized to illustrate the fact that they have committed to and are following Him.
Why immersion:
- Because Jesus was baptized that way.
- Every baptism in the New Testament was by immersion.
- It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection.
3) Be an Ambassador!
Know the gospel:
Why? Sin/separation, How? Jesus, What? Repent/Believe
Know your style
- Confrontational Approach (Peter)— Acts 2:22-41
- Intellectual Approach (Paul)— Acts 17:15-34
- Testimonial Approach (Blind Man) — John 9:1-15,25
- Relational Approach (Matthew) - Luke 5:27-29
- Invitational Approach (Samaritan Women) - John 4
- Servant approach (Dorcas/Tabitha) - Acts 9.
- Conversational Approach (Philip) - Acts 8
Romans 10:14, 17
Know some Methods
1) The Pray and Say
2) The Romans Road: Romans 3:23, 6:23, 5:8, 10:9, 10:13
3) The Four Spiritual Laws
4) Steps to Peace with God
5) Way of the Master
6) The Share Jesus Without Fear
7) The G.O.S.P.E.L Journey
8) 3 Circle Method
9) 2 Ways to Live
10) One Verse Evangelism Method
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
For additional evangelism help go to https://wlbc.life/share/
People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.
1) HEAD: What do you think about others
Hebrews 9:27, James 2:15-17 , 1 Corinthians 9:20-23
2) HEART: What do you feel about others
Romans 9:1-3, Colossians 3:11-13
3) HANDS: What do you do for others
Romans 15:7, Ephesians 4:29, Good Samaritan - Luke 10:25-37
Be Active in: Seeing, Serving, Showing, Sharing
What are ways we could demonstrate Care for others this week?
Lifeway Research - September 8, 2022
3 Reasons Your Evangelism Efforts Have Stalled
- Our relationship circle doesn’t include unbelievers
- You have lost your wonder at God’s work for your salvation
- You are discouraged because of past failures
Our mission requires a…
1) Priority of Prayer
Psalm 127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
Zechariah 4:6, Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.
2) Consistency of Prayer
1 Timothy 2:2 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,
Prayer must be continual and passionate because we are warned…
Ephesians 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
3) Opportunity of Prayer - 37 …“The harvest is plentiful…
Col 4:2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
4:3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
4:5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
Matthew 9 the disciples are praying
Matthew 10 the disciples are being sent out
v5-7 These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “...go to the lost sheep….saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
The disciples became the answer to their own prayers!
Isaiah 6:8 And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”
Pray “Lord of the Harvest, Use me”
Who are 3 people you will be praying for to find salvation in Jesus?
The Mission: The Value of the Gospel - Isaiah 52:7
Isaiah 52:7 - How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
1) Gospel of Peace - “Who publishes peace…”
a. We were at war with God.
b. God was at enmity with us.
c. Christ is the one who reconciled us.
2) The Gospel of Happiness “Who brings good news of happiness…”
3) The Gospel of Salvation “Who publishes salvation…”
Spiritual forces that oppressed us:
-
Sin
-
Death - Hebrews 9:27
-
Satan - 2 Timothy 2:26, 2 Corinthians 4:4
Christ the Liberator (Isaiah 61:1)
-
Righteousness
-
Life
-
His Kingdom
v1 Stand firm
1) Stay joyful with others by peace
Staying joyful in relationships requires: Commitment, Counsel, Celebration, Character
2) Stay joyful with God by praying
3) Stay joyful with yourself by practicing
Reflect on the excellent
Repeat the example
How to grow until Glory
1) Evaluation (3:12)
2) Concentration (3:13-14)
3) Cooperation (3:15)
4) Preservation (3:16)
5) Imitation (3:17)
6) Separation (3:18-20)
7) Transformation (3:21)
Finding Joy through Grace, Growth, & Glory (pt1)
The Safeguard of Joy is Grace
1) Grace resists legalism (3:1-6)
2) Grace redefines loss (3:7-8)
3) Grace refocuses on the Lord (3:8-11)
Grace refocus us on a…
· Relationship with Jesus (knowing Christ… found in him… I may know Him
· Righteousness from Jesus (not having a righteousness of my own)
· Resurrection to Jesus (I may attain the resurrection from the dead)
Finding Joy through Worthy Examples - Philippians 2:19-30
1) The Example of Timothy - A son in the faith (2:19-24)
● Kindred Spirit (v20)
● Genuine Concern (v20-21)
● Proven Worth
● Servants Heart
2) The Example of Epaphroditus - A brother in the faith (2:25-30)
● Loves people
● Tireless Worker
● Risk Taker
1) Joy works out purpose and power (2:12-13)
2) Joy works out attitude and action (2:14-16a)
3) Joy works out completion and celebration (2:16b-18)
Finding Joy through Humility - Philippians 2:1-11
1) Humility is expected of Christians (2:1-4)
2) Humility is exemplified by Christ (2:5-11)
The Mind of Christ (v5)
The Example of Christ (v6-8)
The Glory of Christ (v9-11)
Six Ways Joy is Expressed in our Conduct
1) Joy is in consistent Christ-like citizenship (1:27a)
2) Joy is in behaviors that match beliefs (1:27b)
3) Joy is in standing and striving with the Saints (1:27c)
4) Joy is in observing ownership while being opposed (1:28)
5) Joy is in the grace gifts of God (1:29)
6) Joy is in engaging by example (1:30)
1) Chains (v12-14)
Chains gave Paul contact with the lost (v12-13)
2) Critics (v15-19)
3) Crisis (v20-26)
Finding Joy – Philippians 1:3-11
3 ways thankfulness for others leads to joy
- Thankful thoughts (1:3-6)
- Thankful heart (1:7-8)
- Thankful prayers (1:9-11)
Finding Joy – Philippians 1:1-2
Finding Joy Established (Acts 16 – p 870)
When Plans Change: Paul (16:1-12)
When Lives Change:
Lydia (16:13-15)
Slave Girl (16-21)
Jailer (16:22-34)
Finding Joy Encouraged (Philippians 1:1-2 – p921)
The joy of service (the writer of the book)
The joy of saints (the recipients of the book)
The joy of salvation (the results taught in the book)
Seasons of Life – Season of Loss
Life can be sobering when you realize that nothing in life is permanent
You can lose your finances, job, health, marriage, loved ones who’ve died.
Ecclesiastes 8:14 There is a vanity that takes place on earth, that there are righteous people to whom it happens according to the deeds of the wicked, and there are wicked people to whom it happens according to the deeds of the righteous. I said that this also is vanity.
How to respond to life’s losses
- Release Your Grief
- Receive from Others
- Refuse to be Bitter
- Remember what’s important
- Rely On Christ!
HOW?
- Lean on Christ for stability!
- Listen to Christ for direction!
- Look to Christ for salvation!
Seasons of Life – Living in the Season
Facts about the Seasons of Life
1) Seasons are beyond my control
2) Seasons are often confusing
3) Seasons are displaying God’s purpose
4) Seasons include both good and bad times
How to Live in the Season – 4 Questions to ask yourself
1) Ask - What can I learn in this season?
2) Ask - What can I enjoy in this season?
3) Ask - What is important in this season?
4) Ask – How can I help in this season?
The Christian life is not just a matter of believing, it also includes belonging
Believing - > Belonging - > Becoming
A Church family helps me… (in at least 5 ways)
1) Focus on God
Psalm 34:3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!
2) Face life’s challenges
1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 [Jesus] who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
3) Fortify my faith
Hebrews 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity…
4) Find my ministry
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
5) Fulfill my calling
Acts 20:24 But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
In order to make sure we understand the question, let’s consider it’s inflection...
1) Jesus’ question is..Personal Do YOU believe this?”
2) Jesus’ question is...Pointed Do you BELIEVE this?”
3) Jesus’ question is... Precise Do you believe THIS?”
Jesus makes 4 claims that He asks you to believe:
A) Consider Jesus’ Claim about Deity “I am the resurrection and the life...”
B) Consider Jesus’ Claim about DeathWhoever believes in me, though he die
C) Consider Jesus’ Claim about Destiny yet shall he live
D) Consider Jesus’ Claim about Deliverance everyone who lives & believes in me
DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?
1 Corinthians 1:23
1) Reality
Hebrews 9:27, “And just as it is appointed for man to die once”
2) Result - SIN
3) Remedy
This leaves us with only one of two responses to death
1) Reject God as Savior and Creator to live our own way, damaged by our rebellion, facing death and judgment on our own account
2) Receive God’s Salvation and become an Adopted Child of God - submit to Jesus as and believe in Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Be forgiven & receive eternal life!
* Invest in the lives of others for the gospel
* Inspire others by living the gospel by loving them toward the gospel
* Invite people through the gospel to a relationship with Jesus and His church
The wells that leave you thirsty
1) The well of relationships – many try to fill their emptiness with relationships
2) The well of appearance– look right, big/small; short/tall;blond/brown/red/hair
3) The well of performance– not relationships (no date) but GPA, raise, trophy
4) The well of possessions– just gotta have it. Stuff mart
Inviting people to Jesus - Love * Forgiveness * Acceptance * Security * Significance
Following Jesus’ method of inviting
1) Natural realm - v7
2) Spiritual realm - v10
3) Conscience/law - v16
4) Invite to Jesus - v26
* Invest in the lives of others for the gospel
* Inspire others by living the gospel by loving them toward the gospel
* Invite people through the gospel to a relationship with Jesus and His church
3 Ways God Inspires (in this Passage)
1) God inspires by working for you (v13-14)
2) God inspires by working in you (v13b-15)
3) God inspires by working through you (v16)
-
Invest in the lives of others for the gospel
-
Inspire others by living the gospel by loving them toward the gospel
-
Invite people through the gospel to a relationship with Jesus and His church
Theme Verse Luke 14:23, "Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled."
We intentionally invest in the lives of others because of…
1) Who Jesus is: His Person/Position (2:10)
2) What Jesus says: His Preaching (2:2)
3) What Jesus does: His Power (2:5)
Attending University in the neighboring Republic of Congo, Rwanda Rise founder Emmanuel Sitaki, narrowly escaped the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis that eradicated his and so many other families across Rwanda. Although he survived the genocide, he lived with the constant reminders of an unimaginable loss. Emmanuel returned to the neighborhoods where his loved ones once lived, finding the streets lined with orphans in desperate need and barely surviving. That sight clarified his mission. He recognized God's voice and was reminded of the scripture in the Bible (James 1:27) which calls people to care for orphans and widows. Emmanuel knew that he had to do something when nine orphans ran up to him on the street and begged for help. His thought was to find homes for them with widows who had tragically lost their loved ones in the genocide. Emmanuel was able to provide shelter and love to numerous orphans in this way.
Sermon and Mission Testimonies
Lead as a servant by spreading the gospel around the world
Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, & you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Testimonies: Dr. Russ Melton (Kenya) & Angela Ripley (Rwanda)
Spreading the gospel around the world requires being….
1) “All in” with your life
-
Death (v1)
-
Displaced (v1)
2) “All in” with your love
-
Love for each other (v2)
-
Love for the church (v3)
-
Love for the word of God (v4)
3) “All in” with your Lord
-
Christ was central to the preaching (He is TRUTH) (v5)
-
Christ was central to getting attention (He is WORTHY) (v6)
-
Christ was central to the healing of souls and bodies (He is POWER) (v7)
-
Christ was central to the joy (He is JOY) (v8)
Lead as a Servant - Sharing - Luke 5:27-32
Lead as a Servant by sharing the gospel in the community
Sharing the gospel in our community requires…
1) A changed and committed life (v27-28)
2) A caring and connecting heart(v29)
J.C. Ryle, “No true Christian ever goes to Heaven alone!”
Charles H. Spurgeon, "Have you no wish for others to be saved? Then you’re not saved yourself, be sure of that!”
-
Who in your life needs to know Jesus?
-
Who at your workplace? Your neighborhood? Sports club or gym?
-
Who do you not know personally, but know there is a need for Jesus?
-
Red Truck – Parkview – Blue Ridge Pregnancy Center
3) A clear and compelling purpose (v30-32)
Jesus had a clear purpose
Lead as a servant by establishing the gospel in the household 1 Peter 4:7-11
Key verses: Joshua 24:15 “…choose this day whom you will serve… as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
When the gospel is established in our household, it impacts…
1) Our time (4:7a) - The end of all things is at hand;
Eph 5:15-16
2) Our mind and motives (4:7b) therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded
1 Thes 5:6
3) Our prayers (4:7c) for the sake of your prayers.
Col 4:2 and James 5:16
4) Our love (4:8a) 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly,
1 Cor 13:4-8, Rom 12:9, 1 Cor 13:7, John 13:35
5) Our forgiveness (4:8b) since love covers a multitude of sins.
James 5:20, Prov 10:12
6) Our attitude (4:9)
7) Our gifts (4:10-11a)
The goal of establishing the gospel in the household (4:11b)
in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Love as a Community by protecting the unity of the church
Protect the unity of the Church by focusing on…
-
the message of the gospel over the ministry of a group (1 Cor 1:10-17)
-
the Spirit’s Wisdom over the Strategy of the World (2:1-5)
-
the Power of God over the performance of a person (3:5-11)
Matthew 20:20-28
**What serving is not...
- Serving is not about position**
2. Serving is not about pleasure
3. Serving is not about prestige
4. Serving is not about power
What serving is...
1. Serving is greatness
2. Serving is giving (of yourself)
Love as a community by encouraging the people of the church
1 Thessalonians 5:8-11
Key verse: 1 Thess. 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up...”
3 Focus of Encouragers
We need Community Groups of Encouragers focused on…
1) internals over externals (5:8)
But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.
-
Encouragers Promote Integrity over Prosperity
-
Encouragers Promote Attitude over Appearance
2) grace over works (5:9-10)
9 For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him.
-
Encouragers Promote Acceptance over Accomplishments
-
Encouragers Promote Unconditional over Conditional
3) tomorrow over yesterday (5:11)
(5:2, 11) For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.….11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
-
Encouragers Promotes Future Hope over Past Hurts
-
Encouragers Promotes Potential over Problems
2 Corinthians 8 and 9
2 Cor 8:7 But as you excel in everything
1) NEW Will (8:1) 2) MY Will (8:5) 3) FREE Will (8:3) 4) GOOD Will (8:4, 8)
1 Jn 3:16-17 “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?”
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 2 Corinthians 8:1-8
1) Financial Stress
2) Financial Freedom
3) Sow Sparingly - 9:6
4) Sow Bountifully - 9:6
5) Cheerfully - 9:7
6) Non-giver
7) Initial Giver
8) Consistent Giver - “on the 1st day of the week” (1 Cor 16:2)
9) Proportional Giver - (8:3)“according to their means”
10) Sacrificial Giver - (8:3) “beyond their means”
2 Corinthians 8:9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake, he became poor so that you by his poverty might become rich.
4-month giving challenge - https://wlbc.life/four
Our Process is to Live, Love, and Lead like Jesus
Live as a worshipper
· by walking with God personally through Scripture and prayer
· by worshipping God corporately with the church
· by giving to God cheerfully and regularly through the church
Love as a community
· by encouraging the people of the church
· by serving the ministry of the church
· by protecting the unity of the church
Lead as a servant
· by establishing the gospel in the household
· by sharing the gospel in the community
· by spreading the gospel around the world
Live as a worshipper by walking w/God personally through Scripture & prayer
What is worship? – Worship is more than an event
worship is honor and admiration directed to God
3 Dimensions of Worship
Upward - Matthew 6:33
Inwards - Mark 8:34
Outward - Phil 1:21-24
3 Postures of Worship
Sit, Walk, Stand (Eph 1-6)
3 Models of Worship
Able (Heb 12:4)
Enoch (Hebrew 12:6)
Noah (Hebrews 12:8)
Refuge: The Place of Protection (v1-3)
Refreshment: The Place of Permanence (v4-5)
Reassurance: The Place of Power (v6-9)
Rest: The Place of Praise (v10-11)
Everlasting - What lasts forever? The things you buy, places you go, and the services you use will not last!
There are only 3 things that will last: God, God’s Word, and People
Notice that in Isaiah 9:6, the Child is a Son and is Father… Everlasting Father
The title “Father” is normally associated with the 1st person of the Godhead, BUT “Everlasting Father” doesn’t suggest that the Son is also the Father. That is Modalism, the belief that the members of the Trinity are not 3 distinct persons but rather three modes or forms of activity.
Each Person in the Godhead is distinct. Father-Son-Spirit
Westminster Catechism - How many persons are there in the Godhead? There are 3 persons in the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory.
1) Jesus is called EVERLASTING - Hebrews 7:3, Eph 1:4, Col 1:16, Hebrews 1:8
He has no expiration date - He never gets old - He is forever - Jesus always was, always is, and will always be!
He is not lost... he is not dead... He is not absent...He is alive and very present!
Heb 7:25 'He always lives to make intercession for them.”
Rest in your relationship with Jesus! Tell Him your troubles, confess your sins, though the eyes of faith see beyond your current circumstances.
2) Jesus is called FATHER - 3 ways Jesus is our father
A. FATHER - As a Representative - for those who follow Him
“Adam, our father and our head” by Isaac Watts
1 Cor 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.
Under the covenant of works, Adam is our father & under Adam we sin and die.
Under the covenant of grace, Christ is our Father, & in Christ we are made alive.
Being born, we are the next generation as a child Adam;
Being born again, we experience regeneration as a child of Christ!!
B. FATHER - As a Founder
C. FATHER - As a Life Giver - 2 Corinthians 5:17, John 4:14, 1 John 5:12, Romans 6:23
3) Jesus is called EVERLASTING FATHER
● Jesus does not die nor vacate His position nor become childless.
● Jesus loves His family and serves as the Head of His family!
-
Today, you may have worries & troubles, but Christ is your Everlasting Father who cares for you.
-
In 2021, you may have had a loss or a disappointment... but Jesus is the Everlasting Father that knows what you need
-
You may be depressed or full of doubts & fears; but Christ, as the Father of your faith never ceases to be with you, pray for you, & love for you
You can trust Him, count on Him, rest in Him!
Rev 1:17-18 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades."
Recognize Him, Respond to Him, and Receive from Him!
Thomas Schreiner - The King in His Beauty
Isaiah 7:14
Hymn written by Charles H. Gabriel
I stand amazed in the presence Of Jesus the Nazarene. And wonder how He could love me, A sinner, condemned, unclean.
How marvelous! how wonderful! And my song shall ever be: How marvelous! How wonderful! Is my Saviour’s love for me!
God has done many wonderful things for us in and through Jesus Christ.
Ex 3:20, “I will stretch out my hand & strike Egypt w/all the wonders that I will do in it
Ps 9:1 “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.”
Is 25:1 “O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you; I will praise your name, for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure.”
Is 28:29 “This also comes from the Lord of hosts; he is wonderful in counsel and excellent in wisdom”
Mt 21:15 “...the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did”
Ps 119:18 “Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things out of your law.”
Three WONDERFUL aspects of Christ
1. Wonderful is His greatness that grants grace to us
Consider what He gives to us
a. Greatness is seen in His incarnation (His presence) - John 1:14 & Luke 2:11
b. Greatness is seen in His communication (His promises) Hebrews 1:1-2 & John 14:25-26
2. Wonderful is His majesty that extends mercy to us
Consider what He takes from us
We live in an age when people seek miracles. And expect blessings constantly.
a. Majesty is seen in His taking of sin and sorrow
I stand amazed in the presence —Charles H. Gabriel
He took my sins and my sorrows, He made them His very own;
He bore the burden to Calv’ry, And suffered and died alone.
Jesus was sinless AND took your sins and place it on Himself!
With a majestic march toward the cross & the tomb He took your sins to the grave
What do you need God to take away this Christmas: Anger, depression, doubt, addictions, procrastination, pride, distractions
b. Majesty is seen in His taking us to Heaven
John 14:3
[Verse 1] Majesty - Worship His Majesty, Unto Jesus - Be all glory, honour, and praise
[Verse 2] - Majesty - Kingdom authority, Flow from His throne - Unto His own - His anthem raise
[Chorus] - So exalt, lift up on high - The name of Jesus, Magnify, come glorify - Christ Jesus the King
[Verse 3] - Majesty - Worship His majesty, Jesus, who died, now glorified - King of all kings
3. Wonderful is His power that shows patience to us
2 Peter 3:9 and Romans 2:4
Is He wonderful to you?
How wonderful is this Christ-mas to you?
A beautiful Christmas worship celebration led by Dr. Tad Hardin along with the WLBC Choir and Orchastra.
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
The greatest gift to be received this Christmas isn’t found in a store.
The greatest gift is from God Himself, the gift of Jesus, God’s only begotten Son.
Unfortunately, even during Christmas, Jesus is merely God’s only forgotten Son.
Who is this Child? Who is this Son that God has given?
4 truths about the Gift of Jesus
1) God has given us a Son who is supernatural.
● He was given supernaturally through the Virgin Mary.
● Those who reject the virgin birth, also explain away Christ’s miracles and deny His resurrection... leaving only a pale, powerless, and pathetic Christ who has no power to save a sinful race.
2) God has given us a Son who is sinless.
Heb. 4:15
● Christ refrained from all willful transgression.
● He was the very essence of personal purity
● Even the verdict of the Roman governor Pilate Luke 23:14, You brought me this man as one who was misleading the people. And after examining him before you, behold, I did not find this man guilty of any of your charges against him.
● At the time of Jesus’ baptism, a voice from heaven expressing complete, divine approval of Christ (Matt. 3:17).
● This divine approval happened again at the transfiguration (Matt. 17:5).
3) God has given us a Son who is a suffering substitute.
When Jesus rose from the grave, it was a public demonstration of the divine acceptance of His substitutionary death on the cross.
● The prophet Isaiah foretold the substitutionary death of the suffering servant of God (Isa. 53:5–6).
● The angel told Joseph that the unborn child of Mary was divine (Matt. 1:21)
● When John the Baptist introduced Jesus to his disciples and declared (John 1:29) "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"
Jesus defined his objective for coming into the world (Mark 10:45).
● Jesus described Himself (John 10:11).
● Paul declared that while we were still rebel sinners against God, God loved us (Rom. 5:6).
● Peter believed (1 Peter 3:18).
● God revealed to us as unrighteous people (2 Cor. 5:21).
4) God has given us a Son who is a satisfying Savior.
● He pardons your PAST forgiving every sin Psalm 103:12
● He provides your PRESENT with every need
● He prepares your FUTURE with an eternal home with God John 14:1-3
1 Thess 5:18, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
3 Reasons Gratitude Matters
1) Gratitude Eliminates Arrogance (Romans 1:21)
Luke 17 - the ten lepers
James 1:17 - Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above...
2) Gratitude Encourages Action (Colossians 3:17)
3) Gratitude Expands Adoration (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Psalm 7:17 I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.
Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.
Psalm 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!
Count Your Blessings (1897)
When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly, And you will keep singing as the days go by.
Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Max Anders, “Self-control is the ability to resist immediate gratification for the sake of a higher goal.”
Stephen Alford “We will manifest the fruit of self-control, in the God-given ability to harness natural passions for redemptive purposes.”
2 Timothy 3:2-5
Self-Control is Expressed in 3 Ways
• Elimination - What you abstain from
• Moderation - What you do with caution (entertainment, work, leisure, “the Devil never takes a day off”)
• Sanctification - What you do to grow
2 Peter 1:4-7
How to Live a Life of Self-Control - 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
1) Live with Desire (9:24)
2) Live with Discipline (disciple) (9:25) - Proverbs 13:4
3) Live with Direction (9:26) - Joshua 1:7
4) Live with Determination (9:27) - Hebrews 12:1-3
3 ways to be disqualified: False start – cheat - quit
My football coach used to say – “Keep running until the whistle is blown.”
Psalm 60:12 (NIV), “With God we will gain the victory…”
Only 2 people are called “Gentle” in the Bible
Old Testament MOSES (Numbers 12:3) - New Testament JESUS (Matthew 11:29, Matthew 21:5)
3 Truths About Becoming a Biblically Gentle Person
- God provides. James 1:5
We pursue.* 1 Timothy 6:11**
Gentleness is produced.* 2 Cor 10:1**
Gentleness is demonstrated in how you…
1) Receive the Word - James 1:21-22, Hebrews 5:11, Matthew 13:13
2) Respect the Position - 1 Peter 3:1-6
3) Reply to the Curious - 1 Peter 3:15
4) Restore the Fallen - Galatians 6:1, 2 Tim 2:25, Matthew 11:29
"I’ve been unfaithful." "I’ve failed." "I’ve not honored my promises and vows." You’ve heard these words from pastors, politicians, athletes, celebrities, and even those people you personally know. Unfaithfulness, a lack of trustworthiness, is too common in our culture.
Unfaithfulness destroys families, careers, bank accounts, etc.
Faithfulness – pistis = reliable, dependable, trustworthy.
When we consider having faith in God, we 1st consider if He is faithful.
Is He trustworthy?
-
We call God, Our Father. But many do not have a faithful earthly father
-
We proclaim, “God Loves You”, but many people say that and then leave us
Deuteronomy 7:9 & 1 Corinthians 1:9
Are we faithful to our faith? Faith produces actions
James 2:17-18 & 3 John 3-5
8 Areas Where Faith Must be Faithful
1) Faithful with Your Words - Proverbs 25:14 & Eccl 5:5 & Mat 5:37
2) Faithful with Your Marriage - Hebrews 13:4
3) Faithful with Your Gifts/Talents - 1 Peter 4:10
4) Faithful with Your Time - Ephesians 5:15-16 & James 4:14 & 17
5) Faithful with Your Friends - Proverbs 17:17 & Prv 27:6
6) Faithful with Your Money - Luke 16:10 & 2 Cor 9:6:7
2 principles: 1) Pray before you pay. 2) Budget before you blow it!
7) Faithful with Your Work - Titus 2:9-10
8) Faithful with Your Church - 2 Timothy 2:2 & Ephesians 4:16
Rev 2:10, “…Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
Marathon - 1st place – Last place - 1968 Olympics
A reporter interviewed last place John Stephen Akhwari, Tanzanian runner.
"My country did not send me 5,000 miles to start the race; they sent me 5,000 miles to finish the race."
Most people in this world are looking for the Good Life
Genesis 1 is the first place we see the word “good” Gen 1:4,10,12,18,21,25,27,31
GOOD means that God created for a purpose…and fulfilling that purpose is considered good.
We are created for good, for God’s purpose.
The BIBLE uses two terms to describe something. Something or someone is either good or evil
Ask the avg person “Are you good? Most would affirm they are good. But is this based on a comparison to others OR based on God’s holiness?
Our condition: Isaiah 53:6, Romans 3:10-12, Romans 3:23
So now what? If we were created good in the garden, but are now NOT GOOD
Jeremiah 13:23
Are we fulfilling God’s purpose for why He created us?
John 1:46, Mark 10:18
We are not good… but God is good…
Psalm 34:8, Psalm 86:5, Ephesians 2:8-10
We are not good… but God is good… He made us for His good works!
Phil 1:6, Titus 3:14
We are not saved BY good works… but are saved FOR good works! We were saved for usefulness!
Five Ways to Grow in Good Works (this is not exhaustive)
1) Seek and Savor our Good God
2) Search the Scriptures. Psalm 1, Psalm 25:8-9
3) Sharpen Your Mind. Phil 4:8, Psalm 119:37
4) Strengthen your convictions. 1 Peter 2:19-20, 3 John 11
5) Serve with the Church. 2 Tim 3:1-3, Romans 12:9, Hebrews 10:24-25
Phillip Keller, “Kindness involves finding ways to brighten & cheer the lives of others.”
Stephen Grellet, “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”
Kindness is a gift - Galatians 5:22-23
Kindness is a choice – Col 3:12
Kindness is a command – Eph 4:32
God’s expression of kindness - Titus 3:4, Romans 2:4
William Barclay, “More people have been brought into the church by the kindness of real Christian love than by all the theological arguments in the world.”
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “Kind hearts are the gardens, Kind thoughts are the roots, Kind words are the flowers, Kind deeds are the fruits, Take care of your garden And keep out the weeds, Fill it with sunshine, Kind words, & Kind deeds.”
Kindness starts with the gift in your heart that is expressed through your life in your home, your workplace, your church, your world
Kindness takes practice.
Martyn Llyod Jones, The way the dead leaves of winter are removed from some trees is not that people go around plucking them off; no, it is the new life, the shoot that comes and pushes off the dead in order to make room for itself. In the same way the Christian gets rid of all such things as bitterness and wrath and anger and clamour and evil speaking and all malice. The new qualities develop & the others simply have no room; they are pushed out and they are pushed off.
Focus on the new nature and you will eliminate the old nature.
1) Be Perceptive - Philippians 2:4, Romans 12:15-16
2) Be Redemptive - Prov 10:32, Prov 15:4, Eccl 10:12, Joseph Gen 50:20
3) Be Corrective - Prv 27:6, 2 Tim 2:24-26
4) Be Impulsive - Gal 6:10, Eccl 11:4
1) Model a Holy Life
2) Disicplng Your Kids is Work
3) Build Your Families Faith on Purpose
Prov 14:30, “A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh”
3 Kinds of Peace:
1) Spiritual Peace (Peace with God) (Rom. 5:1)
2) Emotional Peace (Peace of God) (Col. 3:15)
3) Relational Peace (Peace with others) (Rom. 12:18)
John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Peace is a gift from God
5 Promises of Peace
1) God’s Principles provides peace
Psalm 119:165-167, “Great peace have those who love your law..."
Do you trust God’s promises and live by his principles?
We hear the news, listen to “experts” and adjust our lives… but how often do you hear God’s word and live accordingly?
2) God’s Pardon provides peace
Micah 7:18, Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression... he delights in steadfast love.
Martin Luther, "To be convinced in our hearts that we have forgiveness of sins and peace with God by grace alone is the hardest thing."
3) God’s Presence provides peace
Isaiah 26:3, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”
Corrie Ten Boom — 'If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God you'll be at rest.'
Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
4) God’s Purpose provides peace
Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Phil. 4:11-13, “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all thingsthrough him who strengthens me.”
5) God’s Peace is provided for you – SO ASK!
Phil. 4:6-7, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayerand supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Which comes first PEACE or PRAYER? Prayer precedes peace.
1 Peter 5:7, “…casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”
Galatians 5:23-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Joy is lacking in our world. People constantly complain.
Phil 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
Joy is the evidence of the presence of God in your life!
Psalm 16:11, “...in your presence there is fullness of joy..."
1) Be Aware of the Joy Killers
Circumstances (James 1:2-4)
Critics (Nehemiah 4)
Consumption (Prov 15:16-17)
Guilt (Psalm 32:3-5)
Comparison (Prov 23:15-17)
Anxiety (Prov 12:25)
Selfishness (James 3:16)
Bitterness (Hebrews 12:15)
2) Begin to Apply the Joy Fillers
a. Attitude of Gratitude (1 Thess 5:16-18)
b. Unity of Community (Phil 2:2)
c. Giving while Living (2 Cor 8:1-5)
d. Caring by Sharing (Phil 1:18)
“out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45)
3) Believe the Joy Thrillers
Example of Paul (2 Cor 6:4-11)
Example of the Hebrews (Hebrews 10:32-39)
Example of Jesus (Hebrews 12:1-3)
Psalm 16:11, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
Galatians 5:23-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
1 Corinthians 13:13, “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
What is love?
Is love an emotion? An ocean of emotion, quiver in my liver, knot in the stomach
Is love controllable? I just fell in love * O can’t help myself, I’m in love
Is love an action? I do the things I love
I believe love contains all three if properly understood.
-
Love is a choice (Head) - Col 3:14
-
Love is a feeling (Heart) - 1 Cor 13:1-3, Rom 9:2, 10:1
-
Love is an action (Hands) - 1 John 3:18
God models these 3:
-
God chooses to love us (Eph 1:4-5)
-
Feels love for us (Mark 10:21)
-
Shows His love (Rom 5:8)
5 Conditions of Love
1) Be filled (with Christ) - Eph. 3:17-19
2) Be forgiving (of Others) - Col. 3:13
Listen: It is difficult to love someone and hate them at the same time.
Holding bitterness in your heart against someone, you rehearse the offense, the pain, over & over, you only hurt yourself. HURT people HURT people.
Ernest Hemingway “Capital of the World.” Story of a father & son named Paco
“Paco, All is forgiven! Meet me at the newspaper office at 9 am tomorrow. Love, your Papa.” The next day at noon, there were 800 young men named Paco wanting forgiveness from their father.
3) Be focused (on Others Needs) - Phil. 2:1-5
Hachiko.
4) Be first (to love) - Luke 6:27-28
Rom 5:8, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
5) Believe - 1 Cor. 13:7-8a
The love that has been poured into our hearts by God is to be a love that bears all things from others… believes all things in others…. Hopes all things for others…. And endures all things of others.
Can you love someone who is seemingly unlovable?
Can you believe with all your heart and hope with certainty that the other person can be loved and changed by God?
We act as if love is a 50%-50% agreement. That is a worldly perspective.
God is love… and we will only find true love in Him
He did not love us with a 50%-50% agreement… but He loves us 100%
How powerful do you feel today?
Do you have the power to get up? Power to accomplish the tasks before you?
How about the power to change? Any struggle with fear, anxiety, discouragement, lack of confidence, uncertainty?
The word power appears 118 times in the New Testament.
It is also used to describe the most important event to ever happen
Philippians 3:10, “that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death”
Not only was this power for Jesus to raise him from the dead but…
Ephesians 1:19, “and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might"
Greek word for power is dunamis. The power that raised Jesus is the same power that works in us!
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
John 15:1-5 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
1) Cancels Your Sin - You receive forgiveness
John 15:3, "Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you."
Colossians 2:14, “by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.”
Romans 8:1, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
2) Conquers Your Situations - You receive faith to fight
Romans 8:37, “we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
Phil 2:13, "for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."
Eph 3:20, "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,"
John 15:6-11, "If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
1 Timothy 6:12, "Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."
2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Deuteronomy 20:4, "for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory."
Romans 8:31, "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
3) Changes Your Spirit - You receive the fruit of the Holy Spirit
John 15:16, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide…"
Rom 8:26, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness.”
2 Cor 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
God Has a Solution for our Sorrow
Div 1: Trust That God Will Lift What Has Been Lowered
Div 2: Trust that God Gives Us a Way to Fight Back
Div 3: Trust That God Put it All Back Together Again
1) Don't get distracted (v9)
2) Discipline those who get distracted (v10-11)
3) Do your best (v12-15)
1) Remember Who We Are (v1-2)
2) Remember Who We Were (v3)
3) Remember When God's Grace Came to You (v4-7)
4) Remember Why God Still Has You in this World (v8)
1) Declaration 2) Conviction 3) Correction 4) Christ
v15 Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Every generation can be a model and mentor for the next generation by embracing three attributes.
The examples of God, the design for Isreal, and Christ lead us to receive His generosity and give in loving ways to the poor and oppressed.
The goal of the series: To become a church of compassion comprised of people willing to serve our community selflessly by showing and sharing the gospel.
Too many people are consumed with worry and anxiety about what tomorrow might hold. This fear can be paralyzing. As Christians, we believe that our loving heavenly Father is always looking out for us. He takes care of the birds of the air and the flowers of the field and that gives us confidence that he will take care of us too. There is no benefit from worry, in fact, anxiety only hurts us. We should trust God and allow Him to guide our steps.
God’s great mercy became a transforming reality through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This mercy is a result of God’s love for us and this love invites us to live differently in the present. We are to be living sacrifices that no longer conform to the patterns of the world. The world around us is deceptive, selfish, angry and foolish. These cannot be the patterns we live by today. Rather, we must renew the way we think and in doing so we will discover God’s will for us in the present.
Jesus Christ demonstrated his love for humanity by sacrificially giving his life on the cross and resurrecting from the dead. Because of this incredible act of love, those who are in Christ have become new creations. All of our past mistakes, sins and miscues have been covered by the blood of Jesus. Our past no longer has the last word and final say over our lives and we have been given a fresh start. We have been reconciled to God and we in turn can give hope to others by making an appeal for God’s forgiving love to them as well.
As Jesus was being crucified, the soldiers mocked him by placing a crown of thorns on his head and placing a sign over his head that read “king of the Jews.” They did not see him as the true King who rules and reigns. After Jesus’ resurrection, he revealed himself to his disciples and because of his defeat of death, he claims all authority over heaven and earth. It was Jesus’ love for us that held him on the cross. His love reigns in our lives when we put our faith, hope and trust in him.
Boaz was able & willing to redeem Ruth
Christ is able & willing to redeem You
Upon redemption, Boaz gave rest to Ruth
Upon redemption, Jesus gives rest to You
In James 4:6, it states, "“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” In Ruth 3, we see Ruth's humility in welcoming the right counsel, working in the right way, and waiting for the right time.
The blessings of God are for those who seek it, share it, and even those who are surprised by it.
There is a real hell! Without Christ, hell is our destination. Believers who know the truth of hell must be compelled to rescue people who are headed there. Share the GOOD NEWS!
Andrew loved his brother, Peter, enough to bring him to Jesus
Philip cared enough about his friend Nathanael to tell him about Jesus.
Who is your one?
Prayer leads us to a Great Connection, a Great Compassion, and a Great Commission!
www.blesseveryhome.com
Prayer is a Privilege. It is an invitation from Almighty God to join Him in a relational, conversational, educational, and transformational time with Him.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Matthew 1 - Jesus family tree displays love for sinners
Our Method - Our method clarifies our Disciple-making Pathway to accomplish our mission.
Engaging the spiritually lost
Establishing the new believer
Equipping the growing worker
Empowering the multiplying disciple-maker
Our Model - Our model clarifies WHO we follow to accomplish the mission.Our model is Jesus: Live, Love, and Lead like Jesus
Our Mission
Our mission clarifies WHAT God has called us to do. Our mission is:
Magnifying the greatness of God for the joy of multiplying disciples
(Psalm 34:1-3 - 2 Samuel 7:22 - 1 Peter 2:9 - Psalm 16:11 - Psalm 67:3-4 - Matthew 28:19-20)
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said "I will build my church." What does this mean? How does that look in our generation? What is the Mission, Model, Message, and Method of building the Church?
SUPERNATURALLY responding to evil with good (12:14-21) - Relationship with Non-Believers
SERVING in love (12:9-13) - Relationship with Believers
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
SOBER in self-assessment (12:3-8) - Relationship with Yourself
Romans 12:3-8, “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
SEPARATED from World’s values (12:2) Relationship with the World
Romans 12:2, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
SURRENDERED to God (12:1) - Relationship with God
Romans 12:1, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
Are you all in?
Eccl 4:9-12, "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? & though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a 3-fold cord is not quickly broken."
With all of the burdens and responsibilities, believers must step back and rest together in His presence, His power, and His priorities.
We don’t know what the Future Holds but we can know & trust the ONE who holds the future