Crossgate Church Podcasts: Recent Episodes
Crossgate Church
At Crossgate Church our purpose is to make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ. (Matthew 28:19)
We would love to partner in your journey to learn more about Jesus Christ. Visit us at: www.crossgate.org for more information.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
"Have you noticed that God often moves in the margins before He moves in the mainstream?
In Acts 8–10, God explodes the gospel beyond Jerusalem in ways nobody expected: through a sorcerer, an Ethiopian eunuch, a persecutor named Saul, and a Roman soldier named Cornelius.
These three chapters mark a major turning point in church history—the gospel breaking every cultural and religious barrier to fulfill Jesus’ promise in Acts 1:8: “You will be my witnesses… to the ends of the earth.”
In today's message, Pastor Josh is bringing us a word from the book of Acts. Check out this short intro from his teaching:
"Let me ask you something: Have you ever received a promise that changed everything? Maybe a promise from a parent, a coach, a mentor. Promises are powerful. But what if I told you that one of the greatest promises ever made is found in Acts 2, and it’s not just for them—it’s for you, your children, and generations to come?"
Join us as we explore this promise from scripture in this powerful message, "The Promise Still Stands".
Luke 23
From Pastor Joshua's teaching notes, "John Stott once said, “The cross is the clearest revelation of God’s love for sinners, and it is also the most explicit challenge to our indifference and cowardice.”
As the Roman authority charged with making the decision regarding Jesus's sentence, Pilate’s reluctance to act reveals a deep truth—indifference to Jesus is still a decision. Pilate didn’t openly reject Jesus, but his reluctance to take a stand meant he rejected Him nonetheless. Pilate wanted to be popular, not right. He was more concerned about reputation than he was about character.
Jesus doesn’t give us the option of neutrality. We’re either for Him or against Him. The same thing happens in our lives. We might not actively oppose Jesus, but if we don’t choose to follow Him, we’re still choosing to reject Him."
https://vimeo.com/1075323571?share=copy#t=0
To obtain your copy of our 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting Guide, visit: https://crossgate411.com/prayer-ministry/
We invite you to use this 5 Day Devotional that goes even deeper on the teaching of how to "Wait on the Lord."
A Today we’re taking some time to focus on what every athletic coach, every musician, and every teacher like to talk about—today we’re going to talk about the fundamentals.
At Crossgate Church, we’ve got some fundamentals:
· We’ve got our definition of a disciple: “A disciple is a growing follower of Jesus, who lives and loves like Jesus and leads others to follow him.”
· We’ve got seven priorities: Glory, Truth, Love, Prayer, Community, Generosity, and Reach.
· We’ve got a simple question: “What’s your next step?”
· We’ve got a short, concise, and focused purpose statement: “We make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ.”
D Matthew 28:18-20 – “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Join us as we conclude our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible.
We hope you have been encouraged and have drawn closer to God through this study.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-18)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 6:5-9)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 6:1-4)
This week we are taking a break from our teaching series based on Ephesians to talk about some upcoming next steps for Crossgate Church. You don't want to miss this special time as we will hear from Pastor Phil and our elders on their vision for the next chapter for Crossgate Church.
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-33)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 5:1-16)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 4: 17-32)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 4: 7-16)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 4: 1-6)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-21)
A On this Memorial Day Weekend, we gather to think about something very simple yet very profound. Today, we want everyone to consider this truth: “Freedom Isn’t Free.” This is something we emphasize every year, and this year is no different. It’s a timeless truth. Freedom always comes with a price.
B John 12:24 – “Jesus said, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.’”
C Here’s an ironic paradox about death: “Death, as terrible as it is, in some cases, brings life.” In other words, the death of one thing sometimes brings life to another.”
Every Memorial Day weekend at Crossgate Church, we take time to remind ourselves that “Freedom isn’t free,” and we do that along two lines.
· First, we remind ourselves that “national freedom isn’t free.” Our national freedom has been bought and paid for by the blood of patriots and heroes.
· Second, we remind ourselves that “spiritual freedom isn’t free.” Our spiritual freedom has been bought and paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ and his death on the cross.
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 3:1-13; Ephesians 3:6-7)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-10)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-7)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 1:15-23)
We continue our teaching series based on Ephesians, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 1:7-9)
Today, we’re kicking off the study of another frame-worthy letter in the Bible, truly one of the greatest “books” in the New Testament, the letter to the Ephesians. Lot’s can be said about this book—and we WILL say a lot in this study—but the key theme throughout the letter is “the power of God’s grace.” In fact, the word “grace”—pound for pound—appears more in the letter to the Ephesians than any other book in the Bible. And the word “power” appears as much in Ephesians as it does anywhere else in the Bible.
So we invite you to join us on this journey of learning more about God's grace and how to live in the power of His Spirit.
(Today's Scripture: Ephesians 1:1-2)
Join us for a special service which contained a clear presentation of the gospel of Jesus Christ from Pastor Phil, and several testimonies of new believers publicly proclaiming their faith through their obedience in being baptized.
Join us as we conclude our teaching series, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
We closed out our series with a Q&A service where our members submitted questions abour the series and then voted on which questions they would like to see answered. Over fifty questions were submitted and Pastor Phil answered the most popular questions during our Sunday service.
If you would like to hear Phil address these questions in more detail, we invite you to listen to our audio podcast, "More and Better Disciples". You can subscribe, listen, or download those audio podcasts HERE.
Join us as we continue our teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
Today's topic is: "What Does the Bible Say About Women in the Church?"
Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. For instance, what does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
Join us as we continue our teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
Today's topic is: "What Does the Bible Say About Anger?"
Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. For instance, what does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
Join us as we continue our teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
Today's topic is: "What Does the Bible Say About Politics?"
Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. For instance, what does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
Join us as we continue our teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
Today's topic is: "What Does the Bible Say About Money?"
Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. For instance, what does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
Join us as we continue our teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
Today's topic is: "What Does the Bible Say About Alcohol?"
Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. For instance, what does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
Join us as we continue our teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?”
Today's topic is: "What Does the Bible Say About Sex & Dating?"
Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. For instance, what does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
A. We are kicking off a brand-new teaching series simply entitled, “What Does the Bible Say About That?” Over the next few weeks we’re going to ask that question about some of the hottest topics of our day. What does the Bible say about gambling, sex & dating, drugs & alcohol, and much more. Then we’ll wrap it up on March 24 with a live Q&A on anything you want to ask about any topic we’ve covered. You don't want to miss a single episode of our new series, "What Does the Bible Say About That?"
As we conclude this series, Many More In '24" we will continue our emphasis on growing our culture of making more disciples - because that culture will transcend any teaching series, ministry or program.
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'” – Matthew 9:37–38 The harvest that Jesus is talking about in the verses above are people who are separated from God because of their sin. Jesus longs to see his people turn to himself. To be loved, protected, and rescued from their sins. So he commanded his disciples to proclaim this good news. Jesus clearly says that the harvest of people is plentiful. The problem is not that the harvest is not ready to hear. The problem is the laborers are few. That's where you and I come in . . .
We’re in a new teaching series entitled “Many More in ’24,” and we’re focusing on that part of our purpose that says, “We make more disciples for Jesus Christ.” This episode we are going to discuss “What's At Stake?" with our emphasis on 1 John 5:12. Jesus promises life for us while we're here on earth, as well as the world to come. But there is another side to that statement as well . . . Want to learn more about what's really at stake? Join us for this insightful podcast, "What's At Stake?"
We’re in a new teaching series entitled “Many More in ’24,” and we’re focusing on that part of our purpose that says, “We make more disciples for Jesus Christ.” This episode we are going to discuss “The Power to Make More Disciples,” and learn that according to Jesus Christ, that power comes from the Holy Spirit of God.
A I want to give you four words this morning that will help us understand the Great Commission.
Identity
B At Crossgate Church, we are all about being and making disciples. In fact, we’re so focused on being and making disciples that we’ve developed a definition of what a disciple is, which is something that less than 2 percent of all churches have ever done: “A disciple is a growing follower of Jesus, who lives and loves like Jesus and leads others to follow him.”
C. Follow
· Notice that we call a disciple a “follower” and not just a “believer.” God calls us to far more than simply believing the right things about Jesus; God calls us to follow Jesus with our lives.
D. Become
· Notice that a disciple’s responsibility is to “live and love like Jesus.” A disciple’s desire is to become more like his or her Master—to become more like Jesus. And if that’s not true of someone, then how can they call themselves a disciple?
E. Lead
· Notice also that a disciple’s responsibility it to lead others to follow Jesus. That’s where the Great Commission comes into play. That’s where “more” disciples comes into play.
· Here’s a theme I want to introduce to you: “Many More in ’24.” As disciples, Jesus has given us a timeless commission to make “more” disciples. He gave that commission to his disciples 2,000 years ago, and it remains just as valid today as it was when the words first left his mouth.
A. We’re continuing our teaching series, WORD WARS, and today, we’re going to maintain that practical momentum as we talk about the words we digitally use in our lives—especially through social media, texting, and messaging. You know, our culture has just about gotten to the point where a person could literally type or text more words per day than they speak. It’s true. And if we’ve gotten to that point, don’t you think we should ask the question, “What does the Bible say?” about out digital words?
A. Today, we’re going to talk about how technology plays a huge part in reaching and discipling the next generation—technology . . . the bad, the good, and the best. And we’re defining technology as anything from devices to apps to artificial intelligence. Our rule of thumb: eat the chicken, throw away the bones.
B. Psalm 1 – “Blessed is the [student] who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away.”
Nine Things to Remember and Tell Your Children and Grandchildren
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When you were saved
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When you knew God was real
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A personal miracle you experienced
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Your best spiritual decision
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Life challenges that helped your faith (physical/emotional/spiritual
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A failure and how God used it
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People who impacted you spiritually
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The Bible story you love the most
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Your life verse, if you have one
Resources:
www.legacycoalition.com
www.familylife.com
Today we’re wrapping up our teaching series, “Meeting Jesus at the Crossroads of Life.” Over the past 5 weeks, we’ve seen several episodes from the Gospels where people like you and me met Jesus personally and powerfully.
Two things have been true in each of these episodes:
1) Jesus meets people right where they are
2) Jesus can do more in your life in a moment than anybody can manufacture in a lifetime
Introduction…
· Jesus meets people right where they are
· Jesus can do more in your life in a moment than anybody can manufacture in a lifetime
When we faithfully follow Christ, we can see His glory even in difficult circumstances. Today I want to discuss why difficult times happen in our lives and even more importantly, I want to discuss the ultimate purpose for them.
John 9
At Crossgate Church, we are committed to a high view of Scripture, both in terms of the seriousness with which we view it AND how we apply it. “What does the Bible say?” isn’t just a cute sound bite—it’s the focus by which we live our lives.
And so today we ask the question, “What does the Bible say about divorce and re-marriage?” I can assure you that as your pastor, my heart’s desire is to speak to you the truth in love on this matter. I will do nothing less and I can do nothing more.
We’re launching a new teaching series this weekend about the family. But this is not just any ordinary family series—e.g., “How to Have a Godly Marriage” or “How to Raise Godly Children.” Rather, we’re going to talk about “Elephants in the Family Room.”
Have you ever heard the phrase “the elephant in the room”? It’s the image of a difficult issue that everyone knows exists, yet nobody wants to talk about it. An “elephant-in-the-room” issue causes friction, division, and wrecks relationships. An “elephant-in-the- room” issue prevents the cultivation of trust and the healing application of forgiveness.
Here’s something that you already know—there are elephants in your family room. There are issues in your family, issues in your marriage, issues with your children and/or your parents, issues with your siblings—issues that everybody knows about but are unwilling to address in a healthy way.
In this new series, we’re going to go straight for these elephants and address them: (1) Divorce & re-marriage, (2) Getting past your past, (3) Healthy sexuality, (4) Impacts of COVID on your family, physical, emotional, and spiritual), (5) Parenting, (6) Technology, and (7) Q&A.
As we tackle these elephants in the family room, the big question needs to be, “HOW are we going to do it?” After all, these are not easy topics . . . otherwise, they would be called the “cuddly puppy dogs” in the family room.
Here’s the important thing you and your family need to know as we launch this series and address the difficult issues in our families: “Your family needs the Gospel.”
Apart from the Gospel of Jesus Christ, you have little hope for a healthy resolution to these elephants in the family room.
Join us for this special service where we discuss how we as a church can serve local ministries serving the orphans, unborn, and foster children in our community.
Mark 1:14-17
At Crossgate, our purpose is that “we make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ.” It’s simple, clear, and grounded in making disciples.
At Crossgate, we also have intentionally and deliberately defined what a disciple is—because, after all, if you don’t have a target, you won’t hit anything: “A disciple is a growing follower of Jesus, who lives and loves like Jesus and lead others to follow him.”
In Mark 1:14-17 we see Jesus launching his ministry by preaching the Gospel accompanied by a call to follow him—some have called this “the discipleship Gospel.” Let’s think for a minute about the comprehensive scope of what Jesus said: repent, believe, follow, and lead.
Repent.
When Jesus said “repent,” of course, he was talking about turning from sin—which is ALWAYS a key theme of the Gospel in the New Testament:
Believe.
Like repent, the word “believe” is not necessarily a religious word. It means to put your full trust in something. To believe in the Gospel means to put your full trust in the fact that (1) Jesus died for YOUR sins and that (2) he rose again physically for YOUR everlasting life.
That’s what we mean, by the way, when we say “Make a Decision” as part of our “Next Steps” disciple-making strategy. You make a decision regarding the Gospel. And that decision leads to what’s often called “conversion.” It’s a moment in time.
Follow.
When Jesus said, “Follow me,” he was talking about transformation that leads to replication—once you’ve turned from your sin and believed, Jesus begins to transform you through following him. (Matthew 10:24-25)
Lead.
Jesus told Peter, Andrew, James, and John that he would make them “fishers of men”—i.e., he would make them disciple makers. He used the language of fishing, of course, because they were fishermen. In our own disciple-making language, we say that a disciple “leads others to follow Jesus.”
That’s what I call the “FULL scope” of the “discipleship Gospel”—repent, believe, follow, and lead. That’s pretty much what our definition of a disciple covers, isn’t it?
Let me say it again, the full scope of the discipleship Gospel, undergirded by the power of God and the indwelling Holy Spirit, produces transformation that leads to replication. That’s what I call the Life of the Discipleship Gospel.
Think back to the people who originally heard Jesus talk about repentance, faith, following, and leading . . . those who experienced transformation that leads to replication. What happened to those guys?
Acts 17:6 – “These men have turned the world upside down.”
Bill Hull – “Before the church can take over the world, Christ must take over the church.”
We’re not talking about more classes. Classes are all about information. I’m talking about transformation.”
Conclusion: What do you need to do in your life to better live out the Discipleship Gospel?
Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 2:1-12
This week, we’re going to consider the glory of God and the King of Kings. Specifically, we’ll talk about anticipating the king, seeking the king, and worshipping the king.
1) Anticipating the King
When the “wise men” departed Persia, what did they know? We know from history that they knew these things: (1) This king would be a human—he was called “the son of man,” (2) he would be appointed by God himself (“the Ancient of Days”), (3) he would have glory and dominion given to him by God, (4) he would rule over all peoples, nations, and languages, (5) he would rule forever and forever in an indestructible kingdom, and (6) a star in the west (relative to their location) would announce his arrival. The remaining questions were WHEN and precisely WHERE?
2) Seeking the King
There’s lots we could say about the details of their 6-month journey, but the bottom line is that—in spite of the many challenges they faced—these travelers personally, persistently, and passionately sought the king . . . and when they found him, they were filled with “exceedingly great joy.”
3) Seeking the King Personally.
Let me ask you a question. What percent of the time are you seeking God’s face in prayer and what percent of the time are you seeking God’s hand? 50-50? 60-40? 80-20? I would guess that for most people, 90% of the time they’re seeking God’s hand. After all, seeking God’s face is not easy. It requires concentration. It requires dedication. It requires time that you don’t THINK you have.
4) Seeking the King Persistently.
These wise men didn’t let anything get in their way—day and weeks and months of travel over difficult terrain, and when they arrived in Jerusalem they encountered a political swamp that would make Washington, D.C. seem like Disney Land. And yet they continued to press on and press in, seeking the king.
5) Seeking the King Passionately.
There was nothing casual about the search for the king—these guys were all in. And when they found what they were seeking, they were filled with “exceedingly great joy.”
6) Worshiping the King
The best part of this story took place after they found the king they had sought so earnestly—they fell down and worshiped him!
How and why were these guys so fired up about worshipping Jesus? I would argue that it was because of what they brought—that is, they came hungry to find the object of these prophecies and for whatever reason God would move heaven and earth to guide them there.
Conclusion:
In every church—Crossgate is no exception—there will generally be two kinds of people: (1) those who come hungry for worship and (2) those who don’t. And ultimately those who come hungry will get engaged. So my question to you this morning is which camp are you in?
At Crossgate Church, we have one purpose “We make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ”—and we have seven priorities: glory, truth, love, prayer, community, generosity, and reach. At Crossgate, we say, “Our highest purpose is to worship God and focus on his glory.”
There’s a lot of talk about God’s glory in Christianity:
- Reformed Tradition – “What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.”
- Roman Catholic Gloria Patri – “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.”
- Protestant Hymn To God Be the Glory – “To God be the glory, great things He has done; so loved He the world that He gave us His Son; who yielded His life an atonement for sin, and opened the life-gate that all may go in.”
Today, we’re going to see the priority of God’s glory in the big scheme of things.
1) The Glory We See
Isaiah saw the Lord “sitting up a throne, high and lifted up”—exalted in a position without compare, without rival, without equal, without competitor. In our words we would say, “I saw the Lord . . . large and in charge.”
But what does Isaiah not mention that we know about God’s visible glory from the rest of the Bible? One thing is for certain, when Isaiah saw the Lord, he saw a light that beyond description—which is why, most likely, even the angelic beings had to cover their eyes.
2) The Glory We Hear
Not only did Isaiah SEE something amazing, but he likewise HEARD something earthshaking: “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!”
The word “Lord” is the same word in English—although it’s capitalized differently—but it’s a different word in Hebrew. While the Hebrew word in verse one is ADONAI, the Hebrew word in verse three is YAHWEH, which is God’s personal name.
Exodus 15:11 – “Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?”
By the way, what’s the relationship between saying “God is holy” and talking about God’s glory? “When God’s holiness is on display, it’s called glory. The glory of God is the radiance of his holiness.”– John Piper
3) Our Priority
After seeing and hearing this amazing scene, Isaiah reflexively, in-voluntarily responded to what he saw and heard with humility, repentance, and availability. But I would venture that most people who call themselves Christians aren’t ready, willing, or able to be brought low in humility and catapulted into a deeper life with God. They’re pretty satisfied with their walk with the Lord—they admit they’re “not perfect”—but they’re not ready to say, “Woe is me!”
4) Repentance
Jesus said in Luke 6:45 – “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” Regardless, through his experiential vision of God’s holiness and glory, Isaiah became acutely aware of his sin. This scene reminds us that it is entirely possible for someone who is—on the surface—"right with God” to have sin which they must desperately confess.
5) Availability
Isaiah heard God say, “Who will we send? Who will go for us?” He didn’t say, “Well, it depends on what you want me to do” or “It depends on where you want me to go” or “It depends on how much it will cost.” On the heels of deep humility and repentance, he said, “He am I! Send me!”
6) Conclusion
This Christmas season, we’re talking about the glory of God. Why? Because I’m praying that God gives us a fresh understanding of his glory and holiness, that we might be catapulted into a deeper life with God.
Yes, I want you to have a merry Christmas. But even more than that, I want you to have a transformational Christmas—a Christmas that bring radical change in your life with Jesus Christ.
1) Be contagiously kind like Christ
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
“Cast your bread upon the waters for you will find it after many days. Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.” (Ecclesiastes 11:1-2)
This passage in Ecclesiastes stresses the importance of the principle of doing as much good as you can, knowing two things:
- The results are in God’s hands
- You don’t know when you yourself will be in need of someone else’s generosity.
We cast our bread out into the world, and we simply cannot know if every seed will find a place to grow. What we do know is that a significant number of seeds will grow. We should not get hung up on the fact that some of the seeds will not thrive. (Mark 4:3–20)
2) Have a character like Christ’s
To observe circumstances instead of trusting God shows unbelief, rebellion, foolish fear, and idleness.
3) Be Humble Like Christ
"So you do not know the works of God who makes everything: In the same way we don’t know the hidden things, we also do not know the works of God in any comprehensive way. (John 3:8)
“For you do not know which will prosper” (Ecclesiastes 11:6) Solomon again pushes towards an appropriately humble loss of self-confidence. We know less of the future than we think we do.
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)
4) Enjoy Life the life Christ has given you
If this life is all there is, then death renders every action in this cursed world meaningless. This is not the case for the believer though. Solomon has consistently made the point that the fleeting nature of life should cause us to enjoy life the best we can as God intended because it is a gift from God. “Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun . . . “
Solomon encourages his readers to rejoice in their youth and to walk in the ways of their hearts and eyes BUT he adds that they must recognize that God will be judge in the end.
5) Turn to Jesus before aging robs you
”The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:12-14)
6) Trust in Jesus as your Savior
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:34-36)
Ecclesiastes 9:1-10
In Ecclesiastes we found a guy named Solomon who was faced with the monotony of life who tried to find meaning in all of those things and more, and as we’ve seen, in the end he concludes that everything is meaningless.
1) DEATH CAN MAKE LIFE MEANINGLESS
This passage (vs. 1-6) is the crescendo for Solomon’s point about the meaninglessness of life. Solomon reflects and sees the reality of death in this cursed world. He sees how the righteous and the wise and their actions are in God’s hands and how man does not know if that indicates God’s acceptance or rejection.
We also see in (9:2) that godliness is not a guarantee of prosperity or comfort, we cannot look at our circumstances to determine if God is for or against us. Jesus spoke to this in Matthew 5:45 in the Sermon on the Mount.
”So you will be like your Father in heaven, since He causes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteousness.” (Matthew 5:45)
The problem is that most people, instead of reckoning with death, waste the little time they have on the earth with distractions. Many do not think about death but instead live as if they have an endless supply of days ahead of them. Solomon calls this foolishness. Not contemplating death causes you to be an unwise person.
2) DEATH CAN MAKE LIFE MEANINGFUL!
In (9:7) Solomon tells us that in the face of death’s harsh reality, we should enjoy life.
“And whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17)
3) JESUS DELIVERS ABUNDANT AND ETERNAL LIFE
Ecclesiastes depicts in detail the curse of sin and death. Death’s tyranny makes life meaningless because IF this life is all there is, then death will cancel everything out. However, Jesus died so that we could have abundant life, not just with Him in heaven but also here on earth. "I (Jesus) have come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)
Ecclesiastes 8:10-15
The book of Ecclesiastes meets people right where they are. Someone has said, “Most people aren’t all that concerned about heaven or hell. They just want to know how to hack it on Monday.” That’s what Ecclesiastes does—it helps people make sense of the stuff that doesn’t make sense.
In Ecclesiastes 8, we find two specific perplexities that have plagued humanity from the beginning. 1) Why do good things happen to bad people? 2) What do bad things happen to good people?
1) Why Do Good Things Happen to Bad People? (vv. 10-13)
Solomon points out the fact that sometimes it seems that good things happen to bad people. He says, “It doesn’t make sense!” But Solomon does not let the frustrations and perplexities have the last word. Instead, he says, “In spite of all of this, I know it will still go better with people who follow God.” Solomon recognized that God and eternity, not culture and history, will have the final word.
Have you ever heard someone say, “You’re going to be on the wrong side of history; you’re on the wrong side of history”? Well, I’d rather be on the wrong side of history than the wrong side of eternity—AMEN?
2) Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? (vv. 14-15)
The greatest observational perplexity this world has ever know is captured in the words “there are righteous people to whom it happens according to the deeds of the wicked”—that is, in plain language, bad things happen to good people.
Rabbi Harold Kushner said this, “There is only one question that really matters: why do bad things happen to good people? All other theological conversations are intellectually diverting. Virtually every meaningful conversation I have ever had with people about God and religion has started with this question or gotten around to it before long.”
First remember that when we talk about “good” people, please understand that the idea of “good” people is an oxymoron—that is, it’s a contradiction. We tend to minimize the reality of evil in our hearts and in our world, and then when we encounter evil, we don’t know how to address it.
Is it OK to have doubts? Tim Keller says this, “A faith without some doubts is like a human body without any antibodies in it . . . believers should acknowledge and wrestle with doubts—not only their own, but their friends' and neighbors'.”
Solomon wrestled with perplexities like this nearly his entire adult life. And guess what he concluded? He concluded that he couldn’t make intellectual sense of it. Instead, he decided to rest in a simple faith in God and admit that he was never going to completely “figure it out” on his own.
Rest in the assurance of scripture that Jesus loves you and if you are a child of God’s, He will never leave your side, despite whatever pain and suffering you might encounter in this world.
Ecclesiastes 7:2-6
God desires two specific things for every man, woman, boy, and girl—two things: (1) God wants everyone to be saved and (2) God wants everyone to be a growing follower of Jesus.
God desires for everyone to be saved. (1 Timothy 2:4 | John 3:16 | 2 Peter 1:5-8)
As we all know, Solomon was no stranger to the finer things in life, and yet—because he walked away from God right when he was at the top of his game—he learned much of his wisdom the hard way.
1) The Brevity of Life (v. 2)
I can tell you that whenever I’ve been confronted with the brevity of life and the reality of death, my faith has been strengthened. (Psalm 90:12)
A) Assurance:
“We know that if this earthly tent in which we dwell is destroyed, we have a home in heaven not made with human hands.” (2 Corinthians 5:1)
B) Faithfulness:
“So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Corinthians 5:9-10)
If you knew you were going to stand before God one day—and you WILL stand before God one day—would it affect the way you live your live now?
C) Presence:
I believe every true follower of Jesus has a desire for the unlimited presence of God that can only be realized on “the other side.”
(Philippians 1:21-24)
2) The Utility of Sorrow (vv. 3-4)
The truth is that God oftentimes uses sorrow to draw us closer to himself, to maximize our dependence upon his—to get us to a point of desperation. (Psalm 119:67,71)
3) The Necessity of Truth (vv. 5-6)
There are three primary parts to hearing hard words from a truth speaker: (1) Biblical community, (2) true words, and (3) open hearts.
A) Biblical Community
God has provided two primary Biblical communities for truth speaking—the church and the family.
B) True Words
Truth speaking is not based on our opinions or preferences; rather, truth speaking is based on the Word of God - “What does the Bible say?”
C) Open Hearts
If you’re in Biblical community as a member of Crossgate Church and/or a committed member of a Life Group, will you receive hard words from a truth speaker with an open heart? Or will you refuse to receive the truth?
4) Conclusion
The bottom line today is that God wants you to be a growing follower of Jesus—not a stagnant follower of Jesus. Sometimes we must be reminded about the brevity of life, sometimes we must experience pain and sorrow, and sometimes we need to hear hard words of truth—and when we do, God provides an incredible opportunity to press in for more of him in our lives.
Ecclesiastes 5:10-20
As a young man and then as a man in middle age, Solomon pursued all manner of things to mind-numbing excess . . . (1 Kings 10:14 - 24)
Today we’re going to drill down on one particular issue that Solomon wrestled with—we’re going to talk about “Gold Gone Wild.”
1) Myths About Money (vv. 10-17)
There are a lot of myths about money out there today—assumptions that people make about wealth. But there’s nothing new about any of these myths. And if anyone was ever qualified to expose these myths, it was Solomon. (Ecclesiastes 5:10-17)
The Myth of Conditional Contentment (v. 10)
“If I can get ________, I’ll be happy” or “If I just had _________, I’d be happy.” The problem is that when you do get ________, then you begin thinking about something even greater or bigger or more expensive. (1 Timothy 6:9-10)
The Myth of Simplicity (v. 11)
The next myth concerns the idea that more money brings enjoyment without additional life complexity. But it doesn’t work that way! (Psalm 62:10)
The Myth of Rest (v. 12)
Another myth is that wealth allows one to take life easy and get plenty of rest. The Bible tells us that those who labor in God’s strength for God’s glory first and foremost and enjoy God’s blessings that he has provided . . . typically also enjoy a good night’s rest.
The Myth of Accumulation (vv. 13-15)
Here’s one of the really big myths—hoarding leads to happiness. It’s the problem of collecting more and more for yourself without considering others.
So what is the Biblical solution to the problem of unchecked accumulation? Generosity.
2) Wisdom About Wealth (vv. 18-20)
At the end of the day, Solomon determined that the answer for gold gone wild is simplicity and perspective . . . he walked it all back to three things: joy, gratitude, and peace. (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20)
Remember, there are untold numbers of wealthy people in our world today who would give everything they have for these three simplicities—joy, gratitude, and peace.
We’re continuing our teaching series in the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes, where Solomon the King is reflecting on life—both life in general and his life in particular.
Today we’ve come to Ecclesiastes, Chapter 5—which, in my opinion, might have been the hardest part of Ecclesiastes for Solomon to write. Why? Because this passage talks about enjoying and practicing the presence of God . . . and Solomon blew it . . . he missed it.
When we talk about the “presence” of God, we can talk of either (1) God’s omni-presence or (2) God’s manifest presence. God’s omni-presence means that God is and/or can be anywhere and everywhere.
When we talk about God’s manifest presence, we’re talking about God’s personal presence in a particular time and place.
1) Embracing God’s Presence Personally
The first thing I want you to notice is Solomon’s reference in verse 1 to “the house of God.” Solomon was referring, of course, specifically to the Temple that he built in Jerusalem when he was king. But what we need to see is that Solomon’s Temple was just one point on a line about God’s presence with his people that stretches from Genesis to Revelation.
In Genesis we see that God created Garden of Eden, where He and His creation could enjoy each other’s company, unhindered by sin. Later, after the fall, we see God instructing His people to build The Tabernacle - in which God’s presence would dwell. In the time of Solomon, after God’s people had settled in Jerusalem, God instructed him to build a physical building called “the Temple,” which would serve the same purpose as the Tabernacle but would be fixed in place and more elaborate.
Now we see a massive point on that line stretching from Genesis to Revelation—God’s presence has come and is available personally to anyone through Jesus Christ.
And because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, even the concept of “the house of God” became much different. Sometimes we even talk today about “God’s house” or “the house of the Lord.”
But wait—there’s more! In the book of Revelation, we see the New Heavens and the New Earth—and the fascinating thing is that the heavenly city—the New Jerusalem—is shaped like a cube.
The point is that although the perfect vision of Eden was wrecked by sin, God desired to dwell among his people. He projected that desire through the Tabernacle and the Temple, He brought it to fulfillment in Jesus, and He is preparing for its eternal reality in heaven.
2) Embracing God’s Presence Deliberately
Yes, Solomon spoke about “the house of God” as a specific place. But we as Jesus followers know that we don’t have to go to a specific place to embrace the personal, manifest presence of the Lord—the personal presence of the Lord is within us.
But we see some timeless principles for embracing God’s presence in the verses that we are focusing on today, that is, two deliberate things that Solomon said about embracing God’s presence.
Deliberate steps.
When Solomon said, “Guard your steps,” he was basically saying, “Carefully approach the presence of God, you don’t carelessly waltz into God’s presence.” This was not just a metaphorical warning—it was a literal warning.
When it comes to the manifest presence of God in our own lives, may I say that you simply don’t take it for granted? You don’t just carelessly commune with God. You “guard your steps.” You take your time.
Deliberate silence.
How do we understand this emphasis on deliberately embracing the presence of God? We understand it because Solomon emphasized silence before God.
Think about what silence before the Lord does:
Minimizes noise. Causes cares to settle. Makes hearts sensitive to what God wants to say.
3) Conclusion
I’m absolutely convinced that the future of our church hinges on our hunger for the presence of God—personally and deliberately pressing in for more of God.
Psalm 105:3-4 – “Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!”
(Ecclesiastes 3:1-15)
Ecclesiastes is part of the Old Testament that is known as “wisdom literature.” The other books known as “wisdom literature” include Psalms, Job, Proverbs, and Song of Solomon. These books, in different ways, reflect on life and especially the relationship between God’s wisdom and human experience.
In the book of Ecclesiastes, we see the importance of gratitude, and understanding the goodness and purposes of God, because only in and through those things will we find ultimate meaning in life.
1) The Tyranny of Father Time (vv. 1-10)
Ecclesiastes 3:1-10 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race.”
In many books, movies and TV shows, we see Father Time depicted as chaotic, or something to be manipulated in our attempt to master the concept of randomness and chance. And isn’t that exactly what life appears to be without God and without God’s perspective on life?
If Father Time’s in charge, then where is the purpose and order in the things that you and I experience? After all, our secular culture has robbed our people and our students of the theological apparatus that produces coherent and meaningful life answers.
Ultimately, Father Time frustrates and confounds us—without Father God, he drives us crazy; without Father God, Father Time makes life meaningless!
2) The Goodness of Father God (vv. 11-15)
That’s why I’m so grateful for the goodness of Father God. (1) The goodness of Father God brings peace when the tyranny of Father Time brings frustration. (2) The goodness of Father God brings coherence when tyranny of Father Time brings chaos. (3) The goodness of Father God brings meaning when the tyranny of Father God brings meaninglessness.
Ecclesiastes 3:11-15 – “God has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.”
When we say that God is “good,” we’re talking about one of the attributes of God. And whenever we talk about an “attribute” of God, we’re talking about who God is—his timeless qualities that never change. And the goodness of God is an attribute that undergirds this passage.
Father God infuses everything with purpose.
When Solomon says that “God makes all things beautiful in their time,” I believe he’s saying that God infuses everything with purpose. Things don’t happen randomly or by chance. Rather, they happen according to God’s purpose. We may not always know exactly what that purpose is, but when we recognize that God has infused all things—even bad things—with purpose, we can see a beauty in them.
When Solomon says that “God has placed eternity in our hearts,” he’s saying that God has given us the ability to see beyond time and space. No other creature has this ability—it comes with being made in the image of God.
Understand that the concepts “time” and “eternity” or mutually exclusive. We exist presently in what we call “time and space.” God, on the other hand, is eternal. He ultimately exists outside of time and space.
When Solomon says that “God has done it, so that people fear before him,” he’s not talking about people being afraid of God as we might be afraid of someone. Rather, when the Bible talks about “fearing” God it’s talking about reference, honor, and worship. In this context of God’s eternal essence and perspective, Solomon is saying that God has invited us to trust him.
That’s not always easy, is it? We can’t see everything that God sees, we can’t understand everything that God understands. But we know he’s good, we know that he infuses everything with purpose—and because of that, we know we can trust him.
“Meaning(less)”
Ecclesiastes 1:1-2:26
This week we kick-off a new series, “Meaning(less)” a study of the book of Ecclesiastes. In case you didn’t know, the book of Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon who himself was the son of King David. This book is known for tackling some of life’s greatest questions. We’re going to spend most of today looking at the first two chapters . . .
Ultimately, Solomon concluded that only God can provide a coherent set of meaningful answers to life’s greatest questions.
1) The Tone of the Book (1:1-11)
It doesn’t take long to see that the overall tone of Ecclesiastes is cynical . . . pessimistic . . . and in some cases DARK.
“The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem: ‘Meaningless! Meaningless!’ says the Teacher. ‘Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.’ . . . All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing. What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. No one remembers the former generations, and even those yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow them.” (Ecclesiastes 1:1-11)
Much of the book—on the surface—can be a downer, not least because of the repeated use of the word “vanity” or “meaningless.” It’s translated from the Hebrew word “hevel”—which means “lack of substance.”
Let’s remember that Solomon was not simply contemplating the potential of these cynical and pessimistic thoughts. Rather, he was a man who was in fact wrestling with ALL of them. He was wrestling with the reality of spiritual erosion and the meaningless life that it produces.
2) The Tale from the King (1:12-2:23)
For the rest of chapter 1 and all of chapter 2, Solomon dips into his own biography. In this section, we see the personal pronoun “I” 40 times—that’s half of all the occurrences in the book. Someone has called it the “vertical pronoun.” And he tells the story about how he pursued worldly wisdom, worldly pleasure, worldly legacy, and worldly effort—all apart from God—and at the end of the day, he said, “Without God . . . it’s all meaningless.”
3) The Truth about the Lord (2:24-26)
We’ve got a lot to talk about in the coming weeks in our Ecclesiastes series, don’t we? And some of it will sound cynical, some of it will be dark. And as we think about our own experiences and our own observations, we’re going to do some serious soul searching.
But Solomon ends the tale from the king on a positive note, just so we don’t walk away from his story feeling depressed. He comes back to the truth about the Lord.
“A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment? To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness.” (Ecclesiastes 2:24-26)
Please remember what I told you last week—every book in the Old Testament somehow, someway points us to Jesus. And what did Jesus say about Solomon? “Jesus said, ‘The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, and now something greater than Solomon is here.’” (Matthew 12:42)
In closing, let’s ponder on this verse, “Jesus said, “I have come that they might have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)
Today, as we continue our series, “We are Crossgate”, I want to talk about some of the way we are intentional in reaching the next generation for Jesus Christ.
Across the board, in nearly every study, Generation Z has three things mentioned that they hold in high priority: Stability, Passion and Purpose.
1) Intentional Stability
The next generation longs for stability and it is easy to understand why in these difficult times. The key here is helping people see and know that the most stable place is in Christ, grounded in His wisdom, love, and truth. (Matthew 7:24-27) (Psalm 16:8)
The #1 factor in your household when it comes to stability is time…and what you do with it. I encourage each of you to make time to do what is important; like faithful attendance in worship, family times of devotion, like times to get away and adventure as a family, like regular family nights and routine meals together. (Hebrews 12:28)
As a church it is equally important that we spend our time and resources wisely so that we can continue to make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ.
2) Intentional Passion
Generation Z is marked by their passion. Their passion for transparency in politics, leadership, healthcare, and economic reform. But their greatest passion, which we see all over the news, is justice. Once again, as Christians, we know perfect justice comes from God and can only be found in Christ. (Isaiah 1:17) (Micah 6:8)
From a scriptural point of view, justice means loving our neighbor as we love ourselves and is rooted in the character and nature of God. As God is just and loving, so we are called to do make things right in love.
We see this perfect justice in Christ. Jesus, the King of Kings, stepped down from His throne in glory and into His creation. Humbling Himself, even to the cross, for your sin and mine, to make things right. THAT is justice. This perfect display of justice should fuel our passion for Him! (Matthew 5:6)
So here’s the question for families and those of us that desire to raise up the next generation; do we reflect this passion that we see in these verses? In our words AND our actions do we show PASSION for this Jesus who can truly make things right?
3) Intentional Purpose
With so much uncertainty in the world, Gen Z wants to know that their passion serves a purpose. That their actions will make a difference.
When most of the content that they consume on a daily basis is not from the Creator, it is easy to see why finding their purpose is hard . . . so point them to Him. Jesus alone gives us our purpose . . . (Ephesians 2:10)
And we know that His purpose will always come to pass . . .
Is this true for your family? Does the purpose you display as a parent align with what scripture says our purpose is to be about? Do you point them to the ultimate person, with passion, that can provide stability through any trial?
Matthew 20:20-28; 1 Peter 5:1-3
We’re right in the middle of our September teaching series simply entitled, “We are Crossgate.”
At Crossgate Church, we have a definition of a disciple that goes like this: “A disciple is a growing follower of Jesus, who lives and loves like Jesus and leads others to follow him.”
If we’re going to “live and love like Jesus,” then that means we should also L-E-A-D . . . lead like Jesus in whatever context he has placed us. If you’re a parent . . . lead like Jesus. If you’re an older sibling . . . lead like Jesus. If you’re a supervisor of anyone in a professional context . . . lead like Jesus. If you’re a husband . . . lead like Jesus. If you’re serving in any leadership capacity in this church . . . lead like Jesus.
We’re going to see today that servant leadership is the ONLY way to lead.
1) The Gold Standard for Servant Leadership (Matthew 20:20-28)
Who is the gold standard for servant leadership? Who is the ultimate pace setter? Jesus Christ!
When Jesus was teaching his disciples on this matter, He drew a comparison between (1) on the one hand worldly power and selfish ambition and (2) on the other hand godly posture and selfless submission. He said, “If you want to be great, you’ve got to be a servant; if you want to be first, you’ve got to be last.”
You’ve heard me say it before and I’ll say it again, “The higher you go, the lower you must be willing to become.”
After giving them his expectation, Jesus then referred to his example—he said, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” In other words, Jesus put his money where his mouth was.
There’s nothing more powerful than an example, and Jesus knew how to give an example, didn’t he?
Regardless of where and in what capacity you lead, I want to strongly encourage you to live, love, and LEAD like Jesus!
2) The Pace Setters in Servant Leadership (1 Peter 5:1-4)
Let’s talk about leadership in our church. We’ve got several types of leaders at Crossgate—LifeGroup leaders, Deacons, Trustees, Ministry Team Leaders, Pastors, Staff, and Elders—and I would expect that all of our leaders are pace-setting, servant leaders. But when it comes to leadership . . . and servant leadership, in particular . . . where does the buck stop?
Yes, it stops with the Elders. (1 Timothy 3:1-7) (Titus 1:5-9)
In the New Testament, each local church had multiple Elders, men appointed by the apostles and key leaders to be responsible for everything that happened or failed to happen in that church.
As the Lead Pastor at Crossgate Church, I’m also the Lead Elder.
I am absolutely committed to setting the pace at Crossgate Church. In fact, I’ve got four priorities for myself as your Lead Pastor and Lead Elder that I’ve had since day one, December 8, 2019: (1) preach the Word, (2) love the people, (3) lead the leaders, and (4) set the pace.
“I am what I am by the grace of God—and not without result. I worked harder than all of them; yet not I, but the grace of God that is within me.” (1 Corinthians 15:10)
I’ve challenged our elders along these same lines. And I’m proud of our Elders. Yes, we gather monthly in the conference room to make big decisions on behalf of our church. But they’ve also shown themselves to be pace-setting servant leaders—from leading LifeGroups and Discipleship Groups to being “basin and towel” men who serve in children’s ministry and waiting tables on Wednesday nights in Wholly Grounds.
So as we prepare to enter into our nominating process this week, I urge you to bathe this in prayer. Our Elders are the foundation of our leadership here at Crossgate Church and we all need to ask God for wisdom and direction as we add proposed leaders to our Elder Board.
I am a huge proponent of transparency, and if you have ANY questions about this process, you can reach me directly at phil@crossgate.org.
Mark 12:28-31; Proverbs 11:24-25
Today, as we say once again, “We Are Crossgate,” we’re going to highlight our “generosity” priority. You know, we have seven priorities at Crossgate—glory, truth, love, prayer, community, generosity, and reach.
Notice that this definition of generosity flows out of a love for God. It’s about an others-centered compassion that’s grounded in a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ. Notice also that it’s comprehensive—time, talents, and treasure—that is, it’s not just about material resources.
1) Generosity Principles - Let’s consider some generosity principles—and let’s remember these are broad principles that apply to time, talents, treasure . . . and beyond. Remember, “God + Others > Me”. The bottom line is that a Jesus follower is others-centered . . . just like Jesus.
Scripture References: (Mark 12:28-31) (Philippians 2:3-5)
2) God’s Generosity Boomerang Goes BOOM
Scripture References: (Proverbs 11:24-25) (Luke 6:38)
Here’s the irony of generosity: “The more you give, the more you get; the more you grasp, the more you lose.” Keep in mind that God gives back primarily by degree, not necessarily in kind. The degree to which you give of your time, talents, and treasure to others and for others, God gives back to you his joy, peace, and contentment.
Listen, God wants us to enjoy the ride on the generosity highway. Life on the generosity highway is meant to be the joy of the fast lane with the top down, laughing and smiling and enjoying God’s best. The only way to enjoy that kind of living is to be an others-centered Jesus follower.
3) Generosity Pathways
As we’ve already said, based on our generosity priority, we’ve got three generosity pathways at Crossgate Church—three ways to be a plus and not a minus.
Those three pathways are (1) time, (2) talents, and (3) treasure.
TIME.
At Crossgate Church, we focus on a comprehensive disciple-making pathway called “Next Steps.” This pathway is structured around four key steps: (1) Make a decision, (2) Join a group, (3) Become a member, and (4) Meet a need, and we encourage everyone to take their “next step” with Jesus. As you may or may not know, there are tons of opportunities to take the “next step” of generosity by meeting a need both on-campus and off-campus.
TALENTS.
In some cases, we have opportunities that are talent-oriented and experience-oriented. These are opportunities such as worship team and tech team. Some of you have experience in audio and video, and we have a need for YOU and your generosity with your talents at Crossgate Church. When it comes to being generous with your time and talents at Crossgate Church, I would ask you to seriously pray about your “next step” toward generosity and meeting a need. Will you seriously ask the Lord, “God, where would YOU have me serve—regardless of my comfort zone?”
TREASURE.
Generous Jesus followers willingly give of their treasure to others and for others. Scripture References: (Malachi 3:10) Exodus 35:29)
Conclusion: How are you using your gifts of time, talents, and treasure for God’s Kingdom?
Luke 10:25-37
Today we begin a new sermon series entitled, “We Are Crossgate.”
Have you noticed that we all want to know who or what is the greatest? It even goes back to the time of Jesus, when a Jewish scribe/lawyer asked by far the ‘greatest of all time’/The GOAT question of Jesus.
The question was this, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
Let’s look at Jesus’s response, “What is written in the law? How do you understand it?” The scribe answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.”
1) LOVE GOD SUPREMELY
Jesus commands us to make God the highest passion in our heart, the one we think about first and most; the undisputed champion of our affections.
2) LOVE OTHERS GENUINELY
We should care about our neighbor’s needs as much as we do our own; rejoice in their happiness, worry about their futures and weep about their sorrows just as much as we do our own.
3) WHAT IT MEANS TO LOVE OUR NEIGHBOR
Jesus taught something radical. We are to help those, especially those, with whom we have little in common; even those who might have wronged us. Which could mean:
- The person you barely know.
- Those on the other side of the political aisle.
- Those whom you feel are suffering because of mistakes that they, or their family, have made.
- The boss at work who has taken advantage of you.
- Muslims fleeing Afghanistan.
“Do not withhold good from your neighbor when it is in your power to act.” (Proverbs 3:27)
The weightiest part of the law is to love your neighbor as yourself! If we want to evaluate our walk with Jesus, look at how much of our resources and time are poured out for others in Jesus’ name?
4) WHY WE LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS
You see, if we understand Jesus’ life, we are the ones saved by radical grace by a God who had every right to regard himself our enemy. And when we embrace that we to will become givers of radical grace.
“We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
5) HOW WE LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS
Here at Crossgate Church we Love our city. We’re on a mission to share the kingdom of God in every corner. We believe Jesus is King of it all, so we are not content to live in the safety of our Christian subculture.
So in closing, how are you doing in loving those around you?
We’re wrapping up our “Reach” teaching series today. This has been a great series with an emphasis on an outward focus on our neighbors and the nations fueled by a genuine and powerful filling of the Holy Spirit.
1) God’s Heart for the Nations God has a heart for the nations that stretches from one end if the Bible to the other:
John 3:16 – “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Revelation 7:9-10 – “After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’”
I want you to know that the same Gospel that God commands us to verbalize to our neighbors is the same Gospel that God commands us to verbalize to the nations.
2) Our Reach to the Nations At Crossgate Church, we have a heartbeat for the nations, and it’s displayed along three lines.
We pray for the nations. We make it a point to pray for those on the international mission field, especially that they would realize a harvest of lives transformed by the power of the Gospel.
We go to the nations. We send people to the nations at Crossgate Church in two ways: We currently have two full-time, long-term missionary families from Crossgate Church. The Shipp family in Bangkok, Thailand and the Rickett Family in the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu. These families have been sent from our church and we’re excited about what God is doing through them.
We also send short-term mission teams, most recently to remote and forgotten villages along the Amazon River in partnership with the missionary sending organization, Amazon Outreach.
We give for the nations. At Crossgate Church, we give for the nations along two lines:
First, as of this year, 10 percent of your tithe gifts given to Crossgate Church go directly to missions, both local and international. To my knowledge, that’s the highest percentage toward missions in the history of Crossgate Church. Part of that ten percent goes toward the International Mission Board, which is the international sending agency of the Southern Baptist Convention—the denomination with which we partner. That supports missionaries all over the world.
Second, last fall, we introduced the idea of bi-annual missions offerings for very specific initiatives and projects. These offerings provide direct opportunities for everyone to put their hands on the missionary enterprise here at Crossgate.
Conclusion: Ask yourself, and more importantly ask God, “What role will I play in my praying, my going, and my giving that will add people to that great multitude?”
“Reaching Our Neighbors”
Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:19; Luke 14:23
Acts 1:8 – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
We’re continuing our “Reach” teaching series where we’re highlighting our REACH priority at Crossgate Church. Our purpose is to make “more and better disciples for Jesus Christ.”
And during the month of August especially, we’re asking ourselves this question: “How are we going to make ‘more disciples’ without a reach and an outward focus on those outside these walls?
This week and next week, we’re going to get very practical with what we share:
For now, let’s consider how we can reach our neighbors for Jesus Christ along two lines: (1) taking every opportunity and (2) making every opportunity.
1) Taking Every Opportunity
I invite you to examine the following scripture when Jesus told his disciples to “GO” and verbalize the Gospel (Matthew 28:18-20)
The point that I want to make regarding that scripture is that, grammatically speaking, Jesus commanded his followers to verbalize the Gospel “as they were going” or “while they were going.” That is, they were to engage others with the Gospel while they were out and about living their lives.
What does this mean for us? It means that as we live our lives in Hot Springs and Garland County, as we’re out and about here and there and everywhere, we should take every opportunity to be a verbal witness and a non-verbal witness for Jesus Christ. Let’s get very practical now and talk about ways to do that in the coming days.
Invitational witness - One of the easiest ways to engage your neighbors is to invite them to one of our many gatherings on campus, whether that is our Sunday worship service, Lifegroups, Wednesday Night activities, or events such as our upcoming Trunk N’ Treat.
Testimonial witness - As we mentioned last week, the story of how you were saved will always be your best witness. And I’m going to conduct some very practical training on Wednesday nights in October and early November that will equip you to share your testimony in a concise and compelling way.
Relational witness - Building relational bridges with your actual neighbors in your neighborhoods is critical for reaching them. One easy way to do this is through a website called, “Bless Every Home.” Visit: www.crossgate.org/prayer for more information.
Neighborhood Hangouts. These are exactly what they sound like—opportunities to hang out with your neighbors with redemptive relationships in mind. Examples could be block parties, football watch parties, etc.
Digital witness. Just about everyone listening to the sound of my voice has opportunity for a digital witness—social media being your primary outlet. Our team plans to ramp up our most shareable content to make it as easy as possible for you to pass on the digital Gospel witness of Crossgate Church to those in your digital sphere of influence.
Vehicular witness. Nearly everyone 16 years and older drives, and you’ve probably noticed that most people use their cars and trucks to advertise something so why not use your vehicle to identify with Crossgate Church? I want to encourage you to get a Crossgate decal from Wholly Grounds—they only cost $4.00—and use your vehicle as a rolling witness for the Gospel thru Crossgate Church.
As we live our lives, God wants us to build bridges with our neighbors and those close proximity that we might share Jesus . . . as we go . . . taking every opportunity that comes our way.
2) Making Every Opportunity
If Jesus commanded us to be witnesses “as we go” here and there and everywhere and take every opportunity that comes our way, Jesus was also adamant that we should make opportunities by going at specific times and places specifically to be witnesses.
(Luke 14:16-23)
So what are some practical ways we can engage people and share the Gospel?
Feed the homeless – We have a quarterly ministry where we prepare food and then deliver it to those in need.
Evangelistic breakfast and lunches. One of the easiest ways to make an opportunity is to set up a breakfast or lunch with someone who (1) you know is lost or (2) you’re not sure is either saved or lost and use that opportunity to share your testimony and/or share the Gospel with a call to respond.
Pray & Go. In the coming days, you’re going to hear more about “Pray & Go.” How does it work? Pray & Go is basically a series of prayer walks where you and few other people (ideally from your LifeGroup) go to a neighborhood and pray for the homes and the people inside. As you progress through the neighborhood, you place a door hanger on the front door that contains the message “We prayed for you” along with some basic info about Crossgate Church.
Are you ready to take every opportunity and make every opportunity for Jesus Christ?
Have you ever heard of the witness protection program? Well, this morning I want to talk to you about the witness PROJECTION program. Rather than hiding and concealing a witness from the world, that’s where God projects a witness into the world based on what they’ve seen, heard, and experienced in Jesus Christ—God takes them and projects them into the world. (Acts 1:8)
Last week we talked about the power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Jesus’ followers. Without that power there is no mission and there is no witness.
1) A Witness Emphasizes What They’ve Seen, Heard, and Experienced
In the Bible, Jesus followers are supposed to bear witness to what they have seen, heard, and experienced. (Acts 4:18-20) (Acts 22:14-15)
One of the most basic things that a Jesus follower should be able to do is to share what he or she has seen, heard, and experienced in Jesus Christ. That’s what we call a “testimony.”
2) A Witness Verbalizes the Gospel Through the Power of the Holy Spirit
It’s true that we can have a witness through our lifestyle choices but don’t kid yourself into thinking that your witness is complete without a verbalization of the Gospel. Jesus followers must speak to others about Jesus . . . otherwise, how in the world will people repent, believe, and follow him? (Romans 10:13-14)
Why do we struggle to talk to others about Jesus Christ and persuade them to also follow Jesus? I’ll tell you why. MOST Jesus followers are not filled with the Holy Spirit. Oh, they’ve received the Spirit and they were baptized with the Spirit at conversion. But they are not presently filled with the Holy Spirit—remember the glass of chocolate milk illustration from last week’s teaching.
The bottom line is that when the Spirit of God fills your heart, the Word of God comes out of your mouth with confidence and boldness. It’s one of the chief pieces of evidence that someone is filled with the Spirit.
3) A Witness Recognizes that Everybody Needs Jesus
We all recognize that God that God wants everyone to be saved. (1 Timothy 2:3-4) But do we really believe that each and every man, woman, boy, and girl we personally meet and interact with needs Jesus?
Michael Catt – “It simplifies everything when you realize that every person you meet is either saved or lost.”
4) A Witness Maximizes Every Opportunity
Every time you speak with someone and every time you interact with someone, you have an opportunity in some way to have what we call a “Gospel conversation.” I challenge you to view everyone you meet as an eternal being who will spend eternity in one of two destinations.
In closing, If God miraculously said an immediate “YES” to every prayer you prayed this past week, how many new people would be in the Kingdom? And when was the last time you talked to someone about their relationship with Jesus Christ?
Today's Scripture is Acts 1:4-8
We’re continuing our teaching series entitled “Reach,” where we better understand God’s mandate for us to reach our neighbors and the nations with the Gospel.
Today we’re going to talk about the Holy Spirit and how he fills followers of Jesus with the presence of God, the power of God, and the purpose of God.
1) God’s Presence in Us (v. 5) Joel 2:28-29 – “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”
We see the prophecy and pattern of the scripture reference above fulfilled and explicitly quoted in Acts 2, where the Holy Spirit was given to everyone—not just a spiritually-privileged few—who called on the name of the Lord. And God’s presence became a reality in the lives of people in a way that had never happened before. We call that the “baptism” of the Holy Spirit.
So what is the baptism of the Holy Spirit? It refers to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit into the life of any person who trusts Christ. But how do we know this? And what does the Bible say? Joel 2:32 – “It shall come to pass that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” 1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
2) God’s Power on Us (v. 8) God’s presence in us leads to God’s power on us: “You will receive POWER” (Acts 1:8). But if Jesus said, “You will receive power,” why are so few of us experiencing that power? How many would truly say, “I’m experiencing the power of God in my life?”
While the Scripture highlights a one-time baptism of the Spirit for anyone who calls on the name of the Lord and is saved (both in Joel 2 and Acts 2), the Bible also talks about a repeated “filling” of the Spirit in the lives of followers of Jesus. Let's look at the verse below:
Ephesians 5:18 – “Do not be drunk with wine, which is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
Every illustration breaks down eventually, so I don’t want to say this one is perfect. But here’s a pretty good illustration of the filling of the Holy Spirit. Here’s a glass of milk. And here’s a person making this glass of milk MUCH better. Now, when you pour chocolate into a glass of milk, it sinks to the bottom. When you stir it up, it fills the whole glass. If you set it down, eventually the process of “sedimentation” will cause the chocolate to sink to the bottom of the glass again. In order for the chocolate to fill the glass again, you have to stir it up again and again.
But how are we filled with the Holy Spirit? The Bible doesn’t specifically tell us HOW to be filled with the Spirit. It doesn’t. But based on what I see in the Scripture and recent experience, I want to share humbly what I’ve discovered about being filled with the Spirit intentionally and not just incidentally, and I can do it in two words: (1) Admit and (2) Ask.
Admit: We must admit that we have come to the end of ourselves. John 7:37-39 – “Jesus stood up and cried out, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’’ Psalm 63:1 – “God, you are my God. Earnestly I seek you. My soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”
Ask: We must ask that God fill us anew and afresh with the Holy Spirit. We are never commanded in the Bible to be baptized with the Holy Spirit or to be sealed with the Holy Spirit—that’s totally a work of God. But we are commanded to be filled with the Holy Spirit. And if God commands it, then it’s possible.
3) God’s Purpose for Us (v. 8) God’s presence in us and God’s power on us gives us crystal clarity on God’s purpose for us: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Our purpose is clear, we are to go and share the Good News of the gospel with the world!
Closing Questions: Are you desperate for God? Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? Have you truly come to end of yourself? Have you asked God to fill you with the Holy Spirit?
At Crossgate Church, we have seven priorities. Here they are: glory, truth, love, prayer, community, generosity, and reach
Today we start a new series entitled, “Reach”. Reach includes an outward focus whereby we pursue and accomplish the purpose of our church which is to “Make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ.”
In order to make “more disciples,” we’ve got to look beyond and go beyond these walls. Let’s look at the life of Jesus to see how he accomplished His mission.
(Matthew – Chapter 9, Verses 35-38)
A Compassion for People
More than anyone else who has ever walked the earth, Jesus was compassion personified. He LOVED people, and we see that time and again in the Bible.
(Mark Chapter 6, Verses 32-34 | Matthew Chapter 20, Verses 30-34)
Jesus saw the need and he felt the need of the people He encountered every day.
When you see the people of Hot Springs and Garland County, what do you see? Do you see the needs? Do you feel the needs? Do you WANT to see and feel the needs? A heartbeat for the harvest begins with a heartbeat for people.
A Word for Disciples
With a heartbeat for the people, Jesus then spoke directly to his disciples—his committed followers. And he introduced the “harvest” concept. As with the illustration of the sheep, the people in that day would have immediately recognized the idea of the harvest. But Jesus was speaking of people, not plants . . . souls, not seeds.
A Prayer for Action (v. 38)
Now, this is not a word for disciples merely to agree on . . . it’s a word for disciples to act on. After all, consider that Jesus talks about a “prayer for ACTION” in verse 38 – “Pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”
I’m certain that everyone here shares with me what I call the “Gospel Assumption.” The Gospel Assumption says, “Our lost and un-churched family, friends, and neighbors would be infinitely better off with Jesus in their lives as Savior and Lord.” But it is impossible to “Reach” the people around us without prayer.
So in conclusion, we can see that our “Road To Revival” series was just the beginning. God desires to change our heart, pray for the things He cares about, and then go into our community and share His Good News!
(Nehemiah Chapter 12 Verses 27-43)
Today we’re wrapping up our series through the Old Testament book of Nehemiah entitled “The Road to Revival.” We are finishing up our series by looking at the culmination of the urban renewal project that Nehemiah led in Jerusalem and the impact this had on the people of Jerusalem.
The first thing we notice is that the people gathered for the dedication of this project, but most importantly to worship God together.
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Revival Worship Gathers (vv. 27-30) At this point in the story, the walls were completed, and the Temple had been rebuilt when God called the people to gather in Jerusalem for worship. In the Bible we see that God places a high premium on gathering for worship. (Psalm 122:1)
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Revival Worship Encircles (vv. 31-39) We see in these verses the people of God forming two great choirs, climbing on top of the newly rebuilt walls, and walking around the city – one choir went one way and the other choir went the opposite direction – and they met on the other side of the city.
The purpose of walking around the city while worshipping was to demonstrate that the act of worship is not constrained to a temple or a meeting. Worship encircles and encompasses every area of our lives. Remember, “Christianity is not a way of looking at certain things; Christianity is a certain way of looking at everything.”
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Revival Worship Focuses (v. 38) The purpose of worship is to focus on God – to give him our full devotion and obedience and ensuring that He receives all the glory in all the facets of our lives. Psalm 115:1 – “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name be the glory.”
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Revival Worship Engages (vv. 40-42) Worship is a verb – it is active, not passive. To worship God involves taking action – whether you are praying, singing, rejoicing, as we experience God in all that we do.
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Revival Worship Rejoices (v. 43) Ultimately, the people rejoiced as they sang, worshipped, and gave thanks. In fact, they were filled with GREAT joy! The joy of the Lord is an overflow of revival.
Our teaching series may be drawing to a close but in other ways our road to revival is just beginning!
We are—and have been, for the last six weeks—on the road to revival, a season of getting desperate for more of God in our lives and a much greater sensitivity to his presence in our church.
But here is a quick question, "When you are on the road to revival, how do you maintain momentum?"
Well, when you first experience revival, it’s possible to exist on emotion for a short season—so
today we’re going to study Nehemiah 9 and learn how to maintain momentum on the road to revival.
The first thing we see when it comes to maintaining momentum on the road to revival is the concept of humility. (Nehemiah 9:1-3) In this scripture we see God’s people bowing low in humility because they had an increasing sense of the presence of Almighty God among them. Remember what we said last week, obedience leads to revelation . . . when you obey God, He will reveal more of Himself to you. (James 4:8)
The second part of what we can learn from this scripture is that God’s people prayed. After humbling themselves before God they prayed. (In fact, in Nehemiah 9 we see the longest prayer recorded in the Bible.)
Finally, we see the third component in this chapter, their response. After they humbled themselves and prayerfully confessed their sin to God, they responded by renewing their covenantal relationship and commitment in writing.
Here at Crossgate Church, we believe in responding to God by taking a next step. We truly believe that everyone has a next step to take with Jesus Christ. So, what’s your next step?
"The Road to Revival is Built on the Bible"
Most of us would nod our heads in agreement when we hear someone talk about the importance of foundations. Whether it is the foundation of a house, or a skyscraper the integrity of the foundation is key.
"No one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians, Chapter 3, Verse 11)
The Bible is the foundation to the road to revival . . . and specifically, built on obedience to God's Word.
Here are three progressive goals that you can apply when you study the Bible:
1) Information - The Word of God will stimulate your mind and give you a greater appetite to know more about Him.
2) Inspiration - an emotional response to the Word of God. Studying the Bible will trigger an emotional response to God and His Word.
3) Transformation - studying the Bible and applying its truths to our lives will result in transformation in how we live.
Scripture Reference: Nehemiah, Chapter 8, Verses 1 - 17.
Continuing our series, “The Road to Revival” today we are looking at the sixth chapter in the book of Nehemiah. Today we are looking at how to stay focused on the road to revival when the enemy seeks to distract us from our faith journey.
Main Point: Distracted driving can take us on the wrong path.
- The Enemy’s Plan: Distraction, Deception, Destroy
If the enemy can’t have you then his next goal is to make sure you are distracted, the last thing he wants is for you to be dedicated and focused.
- Our Plan: Remain Focused On The Goal
Nehemiah’s goal was to build the wall around Jerusalem. ANYTHING that didn’t keep his hands working, he knew, was a distraction.
- The Enemy’s Plan: Relentlessly Persistent
The stakes are enormous and the enemy will not relent when it comes to seeing us staying focused on what God has called us to complete.
- Our Plan: Stand Firm In Our Priorities
As believers, our chief priority is to glorify God by knowing Jesus Christ and by being conformed to His character beginning at the heart level. Anything that pulls you away from that priority, even if it is a ministry, is a ploy of the devil.
- The Enemy’s Plan: Rumor, Slander, and False Accusations
If Satan can’t distract you with a good thing, then he’ll try to distract you with the rear-view mirror using: A) Our Past B) Comparison C) Our guilt and shame D) Our sense of worth
- Our Response: Truth and Prayer
Nehemiah realized his strength came from God, and we need to do the same.
- The Enemy’s Plan: Fear and Intimidation
The enemy will try to scare you into sinful behavior to ruin your testimony. Don’t yield!
- Our Response: Fearless Obedience and Prayer
It is always right to obey God’s Word no matter what the threatened consequences may be.
Closing Point: Our Ultimate Goal is God’s Glory.
Today we are continuing our series, “The Road To Revival”.
Previous teachings in this series have illustrated that the road to revival is paved with prayer. But there are other components that are essential as we seek to deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ.
We have learned about the importance of testimonies and recognizing what God is doing in our lives now, we have also talked about the importance of overcoming the barriers that the enemy, the world, and our flesh will put in our path to derail the priority of our relationship with Christ.
While we are on our road to revival, one of the fruits of this journey is a generous heart. God desires for each of us to think about others above ourselves, and you can accurately gauge your progress on the road to revival by examining your heart toward generosity.
In Nehemiah, chapter 5, we read about about the cries of God’s people as they are subjected to slavery, financial slavery and physical slavery. In fact, their conditions were so dire that many were forced into the devastation of having to sell their children into debt slavery!
In Deuteronomy, Chapter 23, Verses 19-20, God tells His people to not charge interest on loans to their fellow Israelites, so that they will receive God’s blessings and not His judgement.
Nehemiah was outraged to discover that this sin against God was occurring and asks the people this question, “Should you not conduct yourselves in the fear of our God in order to avoid the reproach of the Gentiles who are our enemies? If we don’t fear God in all areas of our lives, we are pushing ourselves away from the blessing of God and onto the pathway of His judgement.
1) Everything we have is a gift from God. (Psalms, Chapter 24, Verse 1 – James, Chapter 1, Verse 17)
2) God is generous and instructs us to generously serve others with our time, talents, and treasure. (Galatians, Chapter 5, Verses 13-14) “When a person is being revived in his or her heart it always produces a life of generosity.”
3) Spiritually wise people work hard, save, avoid debt, and free themselves to advance God’s Kingdom through His Church. (1 Timothy, Chapter 6, Verses 17-19)
4) God’s Word calls followers of Jesus to the spiritual discipline of giving as the Lord directs, under no manipulation and from a heart of thankfulness. (2 Corinthians, Chapter 9, Verse 7)
Final Thoughts:
1) Are we stewarding God’s resources of time, talent, and treasure well?
2) Do we believe that everything we have is a gift from God?
3) Are we generously serving others to image God’s generosity?
4) Are we committed to being spiritually wise with our treasure so that we might invest in the Kingdom of God?
We invite you to join us as we continue in our series, “The Road to Revival”. We have already determined that the road to revival is paved with prayer. But what else can we expect as we start our journey toward greater dependence upon God?
Today’s teaching service, “Breaking Down Barricades on the Road to Revival”. Our scripture verse today is Nehemiah 4: 1-15.
1) Strategies of Barricades – Let’s look at some of the barricades that we can expect.
A) Criticism from the world (Nehemiah 4:1-3) – We can see from these verses in Nehemiah that he encountered sever opposition when he started obeying the plans of God.
Here is another verse that addresses this issue:
John 15:18-20 – “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.”
B) Distractions from the flesh – Not only will we encounter opposition from the world but we will also have to deal with the battle of our flesh. Our flesh is never going to want to take the narrow road of obedience, it will always seek the broader path of destruction.
C) Threats from the devil – We can see from Nehemiah 4:7-8 and 11-12 that the enemy was working on trying to not only stop the work of God, but also to destroy the people of God. However, Jesus did not leave us without weapons, remember James 4:7, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” There is also this great promise in John, 16:33, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
2) Victories over Barricades - Now we come to the good news of how we can overcome the barriers that we will encounter in our faith journey.
A) Confidence thru prayer - Romans 8:31,35,37 – “If God is for us, who can be against us? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
B) Vigilance in prayer - Nehemiah 4:9,13 – “We prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night. . . . And in the lowest parts of the open spaces in the wall, I stationed the people with their swords, their spears, and their bows.”
C) Boldness from prayer - Nehemiah 4:14-15 – “And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, ‘Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes. When our enemies heard that it was known to us and that God had frustrated their plan, we all returned to the wall, each to his work.”
Our prayer is that this teaching will help you as you seek a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
We are on the road to revival at Crossgate Church through our teaching series in the Old Testament book of Nehemiah.
Last week, we said that “the road to revival is paved with prayer.” We said that revival happens when we sincerely and desperately want more of God in our lives. Revival happen when we seek God more for who He is rather than what He does for us.
We also established that revival is primarily about (1) Jesus followers crying out for more of God, (2) repenting of personal, secret sins, and (3) utterly depending on God.
This week we are exploring two truths about revival:
- Revival truth #1: “Life change is not primarily about change . . . it’s about more of God in your life.”
- Revival Truth #2: “Revival spreads on the wings of testimony.”
How about you? What is your personal testimony?
- Recent - Is it recent? Remember, a revival testimony isn’t about when you got saved, it’s about what God is doing in your life RIGHT NOW as you cry out to have more of God in your life.
- Transparent - Is it transparent? When you talk about what God is doing in your life right now, are you willing to be transparent? I mean, are you willing to tell your story warts and all—the good, the bad, and the ugly?
- Invitational - Is it invitational? As God works in your life, are you talking about it in such a way that you invite other Jesus followers to join you on the road to revival?
Join us as we seek more of God in every aspect of our lives, and in our church.
We invite you to join us as we begin a new teaching series from the Old Testament book of Nehemiah entitled, “The Road to Revival.”
If you’re new to Crossgate, we want you to know that we have seven priorities—glory, truth, love, prayer, community, generosity, and reach. For the next few weeks we are going to focus on the priority of prayer.
In the book of Nehemiah, we learn about the importance that he put on prayer. Nehemiah recognized that revival began when he wanted more of who God is rather than more of what God could do. That’s the story of Nehemiah, and it begins with prayer.
1) Nehemiah prayed a prayer of dependence. Through sustained, deep prayer, Nehemiah displayed a profound dependence on God. Notice his reaction to hearing about the state of the capital city of Jerusalem. “As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven." (Nehemiah Chapter 1, Verse 4)
2) A Prayer of Repentance A significant part of his prayer took place when he did something that all of us need to do—he got honest with God . . . and he prayed a prayer of repentance. “Hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father's house have sinned. " (Nehemiah Chapter 1, Verses 5 - 6)
We encourage you to ask yourself these two questions: Do you want more of God in your life? Are you a person who prays, or are you a praying person?
We encourage you to learn with us and grow closer to God as we continue this series on the importance of prayer.
We invite you to join us as Pastor Phil shares from his heart some thoughts about Memorial Day.
1) National Freedom Is Not Free I want us to consider this truth, that “freedom isn’t free.” National freedom isn’t free. Spiritual freedom isn’t free. John 12:24 – “Jesus said, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.’”
Here’s an ironic paradox about death: “Death, as terrible as it is, in some cases, brings life.” In other words, the death of one thing sometimes brings life to another.” Memorial Day is the day when we remember those who gave their last full measure of devotion fighting for our Nation.
2) Spiritual Freedom Isn’t Free
In World War One, a British nurse named Edith Cavell courageously assisted more than 200 British soldiers to escape from German-occupied Belgium in 1915. The Germans arrested her, imprisoned her, and sentenced her to be executed by firing squad. She was an ardent patriot and lover of her country, but the night before she was executed, she said to her priest, “Standing as I do in view of God and Eternity, I realize that patriotism is not enough.”
For followers of Jesus Christ, there’s more to the idea that “freedom isn’t free” than remembering our fallen heroes. We remember that in Jesus Christ, we have spiritual freedom. Romans 6:16-19 – “Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin . . . been set free from sin.”
Pastor Phil, Pastor Rob, and Mark Cramer, one of Crossgate's Elders, answer your questions on the Genesis series. These questions cover a far range of topics and tackle some of the hot topics of interest in our today's culture.
Pastor Phil references a previous service which can viewed here: https://vimeo.com/426017768
“In the Beginning: Gender, Sexuality, and Identity”
Two important things to remember as we navigate this message:
1) How I express what I believe is just as important as what I believe.
2) People may disagree with my position, but I pray that I never give them a reason to disagree with my disposition.
Our main scripture for this teaching is found in Genesis - Chapter 1, Verses 26-28.
I - Our Cultural Reality - Most everyone would agree that we live in a world that increasingly embraces anything and everything related to sexuality, gender, and identity. Question - How did we arrive at this place in history? There are two books that highlight the strategy developed by those who would see our family foundation recast in a different light. "After the Ball: How America will conquer its fear and hatred of Gays (1989) and "At the Crossroads: The Future of the LGBT Movement (2013) Both books discuss the need for a sweeping public relations strategy that would help to usher in a cultural transformation. The bottom line is this is our new cultural reality.
II - Our Scriptural Priority - This message is not designed to tell you what to think but to ensure that you know how to think - and to think Biblically while viewing all issues through the lens of God's Word. (Romans - Chapter 1, Verses 25-27) and (1 Corinthians - Chapter 6, Verses 9-11) These passages speak very clearly about God's viewpoint on our current culture.
III - Our Spiritual Strategy - Five steps -
1) Pray for yourself and your LGBT+ family, friends, and neighbors. (James, Chapter 5, Verse 16) 2) Solidify your understanding about sexuality, gender, and identity. 3) Do not buy into the orientation and identity narrative. 4) Recognize that the Lordship of Jesus Christ, not sexual ethics, is the heart of the Gospel. 5) Build bridges of hospitality with members of the LGBT+ community.
In this message, Pastor Phil discusses marriage, and what a God-designed, God-ordained, unshakeable, unbreakable authentic marriage looks like.
1) The Heavenly Origin of Marriage - In Genesis 2, verses 18 - 25, God declared that it was not good for man to be alone, and He created for man a woman, a partner for life.
2) The Obvious Need for Marriage - After God assigned Adam the job of naming all the animals, it was apparent to Adam that all the animals had partners but that he was alone. God was showing Adam that it was not good that he didn't have a corresponding partner, someone who would complete him, not just physically for procreation, but also emotionally and spiritually, someone also made in God's image.
3) The Divine Design in Marriage - God's plan for us was to move us from the Parent family unit while we were children, to the Marriage family unit when we became adults. We are to leave the dependency of our Father's and Mother's and become One with our husband / wife. Then God becomes the center of that partnership and the framework for the next generation is established.
4) The Perfect Witness from Marriage - We see that God has established marriage as His crowing achievement of His perfect Creation. Marriage is a witness to God's goodness, and ultimately a witness to Jesus Christ.
Our teaching today is about the “Sabbath principle.” Even though the term Sabbath sounds almost archaic in our culture but if we are honest with ourselves, we need to obey this principle now more than ever. Check out this quote, “The American dream – the belief that hard work always guarantees upward mobility – has for more than a century made the U.S. obsessed with material success and the exhaustive striving required to earn it.” (Derek Thompson – The Atlantic)
- The Sabbath precedent (Genesis 2:1-3) In Genesis 2, God finishes his six days of creative work . . . then He rests. “So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all His work that He had done in creation.”
- The Sabbath Prohibition (Exodus 20:8-11) God now gives specific instruction regarding the importance of keeping the Sabbath holy. “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work . . . “ God clearly says to rest – nothing more or less.
- The Sabbath Principle (Mark 2:23-28) The bottom line is that Sabbath, in a Christian sense, is:
- Temporarily ceasing from work to experience physical rest
- Recreation through (1) meaningful relationships and (2) enjoying what God has given.
- Resting physically, emotionally, and spiritually ultimately in Jesus.
You can click HERE to view the graphics that Pastor Phil created to help illustrate the sabbath principle. You can also view that portion of the teaching message HERE. (Begins at 20:22)
This week our scripture can be found in Genesis, Chapter 1 - Verses 31 and Chapter 3 - Verses 1 - 24.
Today's teaching is found in three simple words: "Creation, Catastrophe, Calvary."
Creation - After God had created for six days and rested and pronounced that Creation was good. In fact, He used that description six times culminating with "very good". In short, Creation was perfect, pristine, without flaw or blemish.
Catastrophe - In the midst of God's perfect Creation, there was a Fall and then there was a Fallout. God gave specific instructions to Adam and Eve, in fact, He poured blessing upon blessing but He put a fence around one thing.
After Adam and Eve's sin, a curse was pronounced upon Creation and all of humanity. Sin infected all that God had created and ever since Creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God.
Calvary - But wait, the good news FAR outweighs the bad news! Even in the first book of the Bible, God was preparing for Jesus to reconcile mankind to Himself. God made a way, a provision through Christ for all mankind to have a relationship with Him, despite the curse of sin and our rebellion toward God. In the first book of the Bible, God demonstrated His love for His Creation through the promise of the sacrifice of His only Son.
"You Take After Your Dad"
Scripture Verses - Genesis, Chapter 1, Verses 24 - 27.
Reviewing last weeks teaching we saw that WHO + WHAT + HOW = WHY
https://vimeo.com/535619423
Today we are looking at the Truth that you and I are made in the "image and likeness" of God and how that should affect how we view God, our value, and the purpose for which He made us.
1) We Are Created For His Glory "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom are formed and made." (Isaiah, Chapter 43, Verse 7)
2) We Are Made In His Image "Let us make humankind in our image, after our likeness" (Genesis 1, Verse 26) 3)
3) We Are Bearers Of His Image
"Without a theological, God-centered framework, life not only has no coherent origin, life has no coherent meaning." Dr. Phil Kramer How we view life, created by God, determines how we value ourselves and others and if we will be bearers of His image to a world that so desperately needs to see Him.
The Bible teaches that every human life is sacred, and is of equal and immeasurable worth, made in God's image, regardless of race or ethnicity.
We invite you to join with us as we start a new series, "Genesis - In The Beginning".
One of the most fundamental of all truths found in scripture is located in the first book of the Bible. Our scripture verse for today's teaching is - Genesis, Chapter 1, Verse 1, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."
Let's start off with something we call "the creation equation." It's simple - WHO + WHAT + HOW = WHY.
WHO - The book of Genesis makes what we call the "God assumption." God has left us a wealth of evidence that points to His existence - Scripture affirms that in Romans, Chapter 1, Verses 19-20 and in Acts, Chapter 14, Verse 17.
WHAT - So what did God accomplish? He created the "heavens and the earth" - literally, everything in the material universe. He is responsible for everything in existence. There are many verses that point to the Creator God, such as Revelation, Chapter 4, Verse 11.
HOW - The How is that God spoke the universe into existence. In Genesis 1 there are no less than 12 times where God speaks the universe and creation into existence. He is the Creator, He is the source of all life, and He is the sustainer of all that He has created.
WHY - Remember our equation? The Why is the important part of this formula. God's primary purpose for creating the heavens and the earth and everything in them was, is, and always will be for His glory. Check out Psalm, Chapter 148, Verses 1 - 3. At Crossgate Church we have a single purpose, "We make more and better disciples for Jesus Christ." Our highest priority is, "To worship God and focus on His glory."
Happy Easter everyone! He is Alive!
Write this down, "The Gospel makes it possible." Victory in Jesus is made possible only by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The word "Gospel" means good news and in a world filled with darkness and despair, we could all use some good news. The best news that we can share with you today is this, "Jesus died for your sins so that you can have a relationship with God forever and ever."
The Gospel is of first importance so don't get confused about the purpose of Jesus's life here on earth. His primary purpose was to die for our sins, and then be resurrected so sit at the right hand of God the Father forever and ever!
Victory in this life on earth
We don't have to wait to get to heaven before we can experience "victory in Jesus", we can experience it today! Check out Galatians chapter 2, verse 20 - "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." Today, you can experience the power, peace, and freedom that comes with surrendering your life to Jesus Christ.
Victory in the life to come
As wonderful as it is having victory HERE through Christ living inside of you, the ultimate victory is HEREAFTER, when we experience the promised resurrection throughout all the endless ages of eternity.
Check out 1 Corinthians, chapter 15, verses 50 -57 to discover more about the hope and promises that we have through Jesus Christ. And don't forget about Isaiah, chapter 25, verse 8, "Death is swallowed up in victory."
The resurrection VICTORY tells us that Jesus has defeated death, hell, and the grave . . . so that we might have victory in this life and the life to come, that is the good news of Easter!
Thanks for watching the conclusion of our teaching series, "The Edge of Eternity". The title of today's teaching is, "Living A Serious Faith". Our teacher today is Mike Fendley and our main scriptures for today's teaching can be found in 1 Thessalonians, chapter 5, verses 12 through 24.
Join us as we continue our series, "The Edge of Eternity." Pastor Rob brings us this next installment entitled, "Live In The Light".
Primary Scripture Verses - 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 5, Verses 1-11
In this passage the Apostle Paul is reminding the Thessalonians about the Day of Judgement, for the following purposes -
1) To Remind Them / Us of the Swiftness of God's Judgement.
We do not know the time but we are to live in constant anticipation of that glorious event. (John MacArthur)
2) To Exhort Them / Us to Live Faithfully
Christians should never be caught off guard by future events because they recognize that God is moving human history toward a final consummation.
3) To Encourage Them / Us to Remain Confident in God's Deliverance.
Paul reminds us that as Christians, we walk in the light and will "obtain salvation". Be encouraged and reminded that Jesus Christ died so that we would not experience the wrath of God. This is an idea that modern culture has tended to discard in their theology.
What are you looking forward to in the future? Maybe its an upcoming vacation, graduation, getting married, there are so many wonderful gifts that God has given each of us throughout our lives. But one of the biggest events that all Christians should be waiting for with great anticipation is the return of Jesus!
In today's teaching, Pastor Phil talks about three big questions regarding the return of Jesus.
Our main scripture is 1 Thessalonians, chapter 4, verses 13-18
But before we launch into our three questions lets rest in the assurance of this hope: Jesus Christ will return! (John, chapter 14, verses 1-3)
Question 1 - What happens if I Die before Jesus returns? If we are followers of Jesus Christ, He has given us several promises in scripture regarding where we go after we die. We will be with Him in heaven. This is our blessed assurance. (1 John, chapter 5, verses 11-13) (2 Corinthians, chapter 5, verse 1) (2 Corinthians, chapter 5, verses 6-8) (Philippians, chapter 1, verses 21-24)
But there is a flip side to this question, if followers of Jesus are going to heaven when they die, where do those people go who choose not to follow Jesus? The Bible is crystal clear on this point as well, if you die without surrendering your life to Jesus Christ, you will live an eternity in hell, devoid of the presence of God forever. If you are not a Christ-follower and would like to learn more about becoming a Christian, click HERE. You can also click HERE to contact us about learning more about how you can have a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Question 2 - What happens if I'm alive when Jesus returns?
3 things will happen when Jesus returns for His believers that are alive on earth. 1) Jesus will descend from heaven with a shout and the sound of the trumpet of God, bringing with Him all those Jesus followers who have previously died. 2) The bodily remains of those who have already died will be raised and transformed into resurrection bodies. 3) Those Jesus followers who are alive at His coming will also be transformed with resurrection bodies. (1 Corinthians, chapter 15, verses 50-55)
Question 3 - What happens to all of us after Jesus returns?
We will be together with Him forever in paradise! He will create a new heaven, and a new earth, where we will worship Him and enjoy a life devoid of the curse of sin, pain, death, or tears. (Revelation chapter 4, verses 10-11) (Revelation chapter 21, verses 3-4 and verse 27) (Revelation chapter 22, verse 3)
As Christ followers we can look with hope into the future for He is coming soon!
One of the strongest motivators for believers should be our desire to please God. In this message Pastor Phil will show us how the Thessalonians strived to please God in every facet of their lives.
Our main scripture verses are - 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 4, Verses 1-12
1) The Disciple's Ambition - Every follower of Jesus Christ true ambition is to please God. (Colossians - Chapter 1 - Verses 9 - 10) (Hebrews - Chapter 13 - Verses 15 - 16)
How do we please God? The verses above in Colossians tell us that God is pleased when we (1) walk the walk and (2) when we grow in our walk.
When the Bible talks about "salvation," it's really talking about a three-dimensional process: (1) when we are "saved", (2) when we are "being saved" by becoming more like Jesus here on this earth, and (3) when "we will be saved" in the future. These three dimensions are traditionally known as justification, sanctification, and glorification.
2) The Disciple's Compassion
As we grow in our knowledge and love for Jesus, a natural progression of this journey is that we will love one another within the body of Christ and look for ways to serve one another. (John - Chapter 13 - Verses 34 -35) and (1 Peter Chapter 1 - Verse 22)
Pastor Phil is continuing our series, "The Edge of Eternity." In this teaching we will learn how the Thessalonians dealt with persecution and affliction, and how their faith thrived despite these challenges.
Our scripture verses are 1 Thessalonians chapter 3, verses 1 - 13.
One thing that immediately jumps out when studying the Thessalonian church is that despite the fact that they were living godly, obedient lives, they faced intense persecution.
Let's look at some of the realities the church in Thessalonian faced on a regular basis.
The Reality of Fire - In this world we will face hardships and difficulties. There are 3 categories of hardships that followers of Jesus face in this world today.
1) Faith-based - facing opposition because of our faith and allegiance to Jesus Christ.
2) Evil-induced - facing hardships brought on by other people's wicked and evil choices.
3) Seemingly-random - facing difficulties that have no explanation - things like illness, accidents, economic downturns, pandemics, etc.
The Victory of Faith - Check out these words of hope from Jesus, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John chapter 16, verse 33)
The Destiny of Followers - God reminds us that as long as we live on this earth we need to strive to grow in our faith and walk with Jesus Christ. His will for our lives is for each one of us to finish our training in Christ and finish the race in victory.
In today's teaching Pastor Phil talks about the example of the Thessalonians and why the apostle Paul had such an affection for them and their church.
Today's scripture verses 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 2, Verses 17 through 20.
Let's look at some of the reasons the Thessalonians were so loved by Paul.
1) They had a Personal Desire for Disciples
2) They were Fourth-Soiler Disciples (See Bill Hull and "The Discipleship Gospel")
3) They had an Eternal Desire for Disciples - The Thessalonians truly lived on the edge of eternity, and they viewed everything through that assumption-to include disciple-making.
So how can we live on the edge of eternity?
1) Focus on disciple-making
2) Align our church with disciple-making
3) Get involved in disciple-making
This week Pastor Rob is teaching from 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2, verses 1 through 16.The Thessalonians were praised by the apostle Paul as pleasing God and loving the people in their community, in short, they were "The Real Deal".
Let's look at two truths that will help us determine what is Real.
1) Authentic Christian leaders will reflect a genuine love for and commitment to God and the people that they have been called to lead.
2) God's Word transforms the lives of those who welcome it.
Pastor Phil starts a new series, "The Edge of Eternity" a study of the people of Thessalonica. Let's look a few qualities that those early believers shared:
- The Thessalonians were pace-setting followers of Jesus.
- The Thessalonians embraced the Lordship of Jesus.
- The Thessalonians faced tremendous opposition.
- The Thessalonians had heaven on their minds.
He examines the world, the environment in which they lived so that we can learn how they lived lives of love, joy, and faith despite overwhelming challenges. Their lives were identified by their public profession of their love of the gospel of Jesus Christ, their obedience to His commandments, and their sharing of this Good News.
We invite you to join us as we learn how to be better disciples of Jesus Christ by studying the people of Thessalonia, their faith, and how it impacted their lives and the people around them.
As we conclude our series, “The Priority of Community”, we look at the importance of LifeGroups in building a authentic community.
Sharing life with other Christ followers is of vital importance, but what should LifeGroups be focusing on when meeting together?
- Teaching and Prayer – When gathering as a LifeGroup, our goal is not to simply check a box when it comes to studying the Bible, instead our goal is to “pursue biblical counsel in all areas of life.” When we study the Word together, we should aim for a willingness to be transformed by the voice of God – that is what we call the experiential knowledge of God. And when we are being transformed by the Spirit of God our allegiance to prayer deepens substantially. When as a group we are devoted to praying for each other, for the hard things in our lives, we will become defined by prayer.
- Personal Connection – Fellowship together means sharing meals together, sharing fun together, and sharing burdens together. Those who are actively connected to a LifeGroup have roots that help them to receive care and endure; those that don’t, don’t.
- Tangible Care – Meeting each other’s needs means that doing life together is more than teaching, prayer, and personal connections. It means sharing our needs within the safety of our LifeGroups and joining together to provide compassionate care for those who are hurting.
- Consistent Engagement – You cannot do life together sporadically; you must commit to meeting together on a regular basis. Meeting together is a key toward staying involved in each other’s lives.
- Outward Focus – Finally, it is vital that our LifeGroups maintain a healthy balance of sharing together but also looking outside the group to help advance God’s Kingdom.
"The Power of Transforming Relationships"
In this teaching Pastor Rob examines one of the most crucial characteristics that make up a authentic Biblical Community.
Accountability - "So then each of us will give an account of himself to God." (Romans 14 Verse 12)
This accounting will not be a general review, it will be a detailed account of our lives and the words we have spoken. "But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgement for every empty word they have spoken." (Matthew 12 Verse 36)
So how can we invite accountability into our relationships with others?
1) Accountability is necessary because it helps me do with somebody else what I would not do all by myself. (1 Timothy 4 Verses 7-8)
2) Accountability works better when I invite it rather than when I endure it. (Hebrews 10 Verse 24)
3) Accountability takes a lot of courage.
4) Accountability is not just about avoiding what is bad; it's about pursuing good.
Remember, we all need accountability in our lives because we are all good excuse makers and because we have such a remarkable life in the kingdom that lies before us.
We are continuing our series, "The Priority of Community" and in this teaching message we are talking about the importance of "church membership" and the role that plays in the priority of community.
Primary Scripture Verse - 1 Corinthians 12:12 - 20, 25-28.
Membership Means Community - the church of Jesus Christ is not an organization, but a living organism. The body of Christ - the church - is manifested in two ways (1) the universal church [everyone who has repented of their sin, believed in the Gospel, and followed Jesus.] (2) the local church [the local manifestation of the universal church]
The point behind the importance of all this church talk is this - we were NEVER meant to do this alone.
Membership Means Participation - there is a big difference between attending and belonging to a church - participation means active participation, not a passive spectator type role.
God places everyone in His church for a purpose. We are appointed to participate in helping to advance His Kingdom.
Membership Means Care - members care for one another. The church is a community that cares for each other - within the context of membership, people committed to one another and to our church.
Membership Means Accountability - membership means that we devote ourselves to one another, we commit ourselves to hearing the truth from one another, and we encourage and challenge one another to become better disciples.
Community is a word that gets tossed around quite a bit but what does it mean to live in biblical community?
First of all it means that everyone is observing "The Source Principle" (Luke 6:45) - meaning that we understand that what comes out of our mouths is coming from our hearts. Because our hearts are the source of our words, the Bible places a high premium on self-control with our words.
Second is understanding "The Poison Principle" (James 3:6-10) Destructive private speech can set fire to a community in no time. Try measuring your talk with the prayer test. Is what you are discussing something that you could truthfully segue into prayer for that person and that situation? It not, chances are it is probably destructive and damaging to the body of Christ.
Third, is "The Clarity Principle" (Proverbs 18:2,13) It is critical that we have a clear understanding of what we are hearing before we make any judgement and then respond. Trust should be our go-to response but we should also verify if needed. Trust is essential in building a community of Christ honoring believers.
Fourth is what we are calling "The Transparency Principle". This is an area that is rarely practiced in most churches today. This is the principle of recognizing that we are all sinners, and confessing our sins to one another. (James 5:16) Without this type of honest communication it is impossible to have a spiritually healthy community.
Finally there is "The Grace Principle". All communication needs to be seasoned with God's amazing grace. (Ephesians 4:29) In Proverbs we have this verse, "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." (Proverbs 16:24) When we are seeking to encourage and edify each other we are helping to build each other up, which one of the foundations of biblical community.
We invite you to listen today as we start a new series, "The Priority of Community". Today we will be talking about the early church and how the new believers shared all that they had with joyful and sincere hearts.
Let's examine what the Bible says about how we live (or don't live) in community:
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The Power of Association - This new group of believers were marked by their devotion to God's Word, unity of spirit, and sharing of their possessions so that all of the groups needs were met. In short, they did LIFE together! Because of this dedication to living life in community they saw the unbelieving come to faith in Christ.
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The Peril Of Isolation - But there is another way of life, a life that many in today's culture have embraced, and that is the life of isolation. Think about it, we often drive to work alone and today we often work alone, we spend much of our today with earphones in our ears, blocking out interactions with others, we eat meals at different times, and watch TV in different rooms. Proverbs 18:1 says, "Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment." That is why God created us to live in community!
"Good News for Married Couples in 2020"
Join us as we take a deeper look at a couple in the Bible that had some significant odds against them, Joseph and Mary.
How did there marriage not only survive but thrive? Here are some lessons we can learn from their lives:
1) Devotion to God was Their Top Priority
2) Joseph was a Selfless Spouse
3) Mary Sought Godly Wisdom and Community
Today's teaching is based on scripture found in Matthew 1-2, Luke 1-2.
We continue our series, "Good News in a World Gone Wild" where we are discussing the challenging times we live in and the fact that God gets the last word on not only 2020, but all of history.
We examine the scriptures in Matthew 2 where we learn about some of the powerful men of the day and how they react to the birth of Jesus.
Here are some points we will be looking at in this teaching.
Jesus > The Allure of Power
Jesus > The Swamp of Politics
Jesus > The Question of Praise
During these challenging and difficult times, it is a great reminder that God always has the last word. He had the last word on 1968 which was by all accounts a terrible year. Just like in 2020, in 1968 people were tired, circumstances were troubling (at best), and there were significant doubts about the future of our country and its leadership.
So what do you do when the world has gone wild?
You remember that God is for you. In the book of Joshua, God reminds us that He will never leave or us forsake us. God will always have your back. And the ultimate reminder of this great truth was the baby born in Israel during challenging times in their history.
It's also helpful to remember God's good news. Before Jesus was ever born, the Bible said this about His birth, " . . . they shall call His name Immanuel - which means, 'God with us.'" No matter the difficulty we can always count on the presence of almighty God in our circumstances and remember that He is always working on our behalf.
The combination of these truths equal peace for the follower of Christ. God reminds us in the book of Philippians that He will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. And then in Romans we get this awesome promise, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"
There is a huge gap between "Christmas" and "God With Us." One is a third person, abstract event, the other is a personal relationship with the Creator God of the Universe.
Which one will you celebrate this year?
In this message Pastor Phil's addresses how we can see revival not only come to our country but most importantly to our own hearts.
At Crossgate Church we have seven priorities: Glory, Truth, Love, Prayer, Community, Generosity, and Reach. In this message, Pastor Phil will be discussing "The Priority of Generosity".
We describe generosity in this way: "Out of an overflow of love for Jesus Christ, we joyfully and generously give our time, talents, and treasures for God's glory and others' needs."
Here are a couple of the questions Pastor will address during today's teaching:
1) Who is the source of our Generosity?
2) What does that Generosity look like as we live out our lives?
The Bible has a lot to say about how we use our time, talents, and treasures but one of the most encouraging verses is found in Proverbs 11-25 "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."
Have a great day in Jesus!
Have you ever wondered if God cares about you in the crises of your life? Is He listening to your prayers? Can you trust God when life is crashing around you? Is God only good when He does what we want? In this message we will learn truths from God's Word about how we can trust God, no matter the circumstances of our lives. It begins with . . . 1) Our honesty with God (Psalm 61:1-2a) 2) Our humility before God (Psalm 61:2b) 3) Our confidence in God (Psalm 61:3) 4) Our hope in God (Psalm 61:4, 8) God reminds us in Psalm 23 that He will never leave us, nor forsake us, . . . surely goodness and mercy will follow me . . . and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Join us for this powerful message referencing our faith in a God who is always good, no matter the seasons of our lives.
Jesus taught and modeled the priority of prayer in his life here on earth. In today's teaching Pastor Phil examines some of the ways Jesus taught us to pray as we are about our Father's work.
Jesus modeled the importance of his presence - he became flesh and dwelt among us.
Jesus preached the Gospel. He shared the good news with people wherever he went.
Jesus proved that He was God. He did this through healing and other miracles that were first and foremost designed to bring glory to God and demonstrate that He was the Son of God.
Jesus loved others. Jesus saw that we were people "as sheep without a shepherd." And the foundation for making disciples for Jesus and making better disciples for Jesus is grounded in our love for people.
Jesus prayed. He told us to pray earnestly for God to send more people to share the Gospel.
He also knew that when we pray for others we are reminded of our own identity in Christ.
We invite you to listen to this audio podcast in its entirety to learn how you can better pray for how you can make more and better disciples.
Thanks for joining us for our second component in our teaching series, "The Priority of Praying". Today, Pastor Phil will be addressing the importance of praying for our leaders as stated in scripture. But first here is a brief recap regarding the priority of prayer:
- God calls us to prayer as our first importance.
- God uses prayer to transform our lives.
- God uses prayer to transform the world.
In today's teaching, Pastor Phil discusses the importance of praying for our leaders.
- Pray for Leaders Outside Our Church
- Prayer reminds us that God is in control.
- Prayer reminds us that God has no political favorites.
- Prayer reminds us that our witness is more important than our vote.
- Pray for Leaders Inside Our Church
Join us as Pastor Phil starts his new series, "The Priority of Prayer". In today's teaching he discusses the importance of praying consistently, taking your calendar captive, praying with expectancy, and praying for proximity.
This morning Pastor Phil concludes our two part Vision Emphasis Series with a focus on "What Is Your Next Step?" You don't want to miss it!
This morning Pastor Phil will begin Part I of our Vision Emphasis with a refocusing of our purpose statement and our priorities as a church. You don't want to miss it!
Also, don't forget that our service times have changed, we are now meeting at 9:30 am and 11:00 am.
Other changes for this Sunday include: Crossgate Kids are open from Birth - 6th Grade during the 11:00 am service only. (Birth - Pre K is open during both services) Lifegroups are also resuming meeting on campus this Sunday! And finally, we are opening up Wholly Ground Coffee Shop this Sunday for beverage orders only.
As always, we are asking you to reserve your seats in the Worship Center as well as register your children for Crossgate Kids ministry activities.
http://crossgate.org/
Also, we invite you to view this video message from Pastor Matthew regarding our new check-in procedures:
https://www.facebook.com/crossgatekids/videos/766611274129655
Join us as Pastor Phil and his wife Shara, and Pastor Rob and his wife Tula answer your questions on marriage, parenting, and many other topics covered during our "Fantasy Family" series.
Deuteronomy 6:7-9, 20-25 – “You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. . . . When your son asks you in time to come, ‘What is the meaning of the testimonies and the statutes and the rules that the LORD our God has commanded you?’ then you shall say to your son, ‘We were Pharaoh's slaves in Egypt. And the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand. And the LORD showed signs and wonders, great and grievous, against Egypt and against Pharaoh and all his household, before our eyes. And he brought us out from there, that he might bring us in and give us the land that he swore to give to our fathers. And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as we are this day. And it will be righteousness for us, if we are careful to do all this commandment before the LORD our God, as he has commanded us.’”
- The Principle of Teaching (vv. 7-9)
Deuteronomy 32:41 – “I sharpen my flashing sword.”
Isaiah 5:28 – “Their arrows are sharp, their bows are bent, and their horses’ hooves seem like flint.”
Parents are responsible to teach their children about God
Teaching implies heart knowledge, not just head knowledge
Conversations should include the question “what does the Bible say?”
Hebrews 4:12 – “The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
John 6:63 – “Jesus said, ‘These words I speak to you are spirit and they are life.’”
Isaiah 28:10 – “For it is precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little.”
1 Thessalonians 2:8, 13 – “We, being affectionately desirous of you, were ready to share with you not only the Gospel of God but also our own selves, because you were very dear to us. . . . And we also thank God that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you received it not as the word of men, but as what it really is, the word of God.”
- The Principle of Story (vv. 20-23)
Deuteronomy 4:32-35 – “Ask from one end of heaven to the other, whether such a great thing as this has ever happened or was ever heard of. Did any people ever hear the voice of a god speaking out of the midst of the fire, as you have heard? Or has any god ever attempted to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, and by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by great deeds of terror, all of which the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes? To you it was shown, that you might know that the LORD is God; there is no other besides him.
- The Principle of Decision (vv. 24-25)
Deuteronomy 30:15-19 – “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil. If you obey the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you today, by loving the LORD your God, by walking in his ways, and by keeping his commandments and his statutes and his rules, then you shall live and multiply, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to take possession of it. But if your heart turns away, and you will not hear, but are drawn away to worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you today, that you shall surely perish. You shall not live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to enter and possess. I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore, choose life, that you and your offspring may live.”
Would you like to learn more about how to truly impact your children's lives? Join us as Pastor Phil teaches us from God Word how we can better influence our children's lives. Our primary scripture verse for today is found in Deuteronomy 6 - 1 - 9. Some of the points we will be discussing today include:
1) TRUTH (Verses 1 - 5) "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."
2) EXAMPLE (Verse 6) Think of those people in your life who most impacted you with their teaching.
3) AFFECTION (Verses 7 - 9) "Rules without relationship results in rebellion." - Josh McDowell
4) TIME (Verses 7 - 9)
Discussion Questions: Click HERE
Online Scripture References: Click HERE
Friendship is one of the most forgotten elements of marriage.
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Friendship in Marriage - Becoming One
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Friendship in Marriage - Progression Toward a Common Cause: CHRISTLIKENESS
1 John 3-2, "Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure."
1 Thessalonians 5-14, "And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idol, encourage the faint hearted, help the week, be patient with them all."
What makes for friendship in Biblical marriage?
A. Common Cause
B. Loyalty
C. Transparency
D. Trust of Good Intentions
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Prioritize Biblical friendship in the dating process
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Prioritize Friendship in the Marriage
Thanks for joining us as we discuss the subject of honoring God with our wealth and resources. The first question we have to ask is:
1 - Why Should We Honor The Lord With Our Wealth?
A - God Owns It All
B - It All Comes From God
C - Honoring The Lord With Wealth Reflects Spiritual Maturity
D - A Right View About Wealth Is A Necessary Prerequisite For The Right Use Of Wealth
2 - How Should We Honor The Lord?
A - Gratitude
B - Faithfulness
C - Quantity
D - Quality
E - Generosity
F - Contentment
G - Enjoyment
Scripture Verses: Deuteronomy 10-14 / Haggai 2-8 / Matthew 6-21 / 2 Corinthians 8 - 1 - 15 / Ecclesiastes 5 - 18,19
Discussion Questions HERE
Join us as Pastor Phil continues his series, "Fantasy Family". Today's teaching is on the importance of "COURAGE" in regard to protecting your family from danger and destruction.
The Importance of Putting On The Whole Armor Of God - Ephesians 6:10-18
1) The Axis of Evil - Understanding Your Enemy
2) The Armor of God
A) Join The Army
B) Depend On God
C) Internalize The Word
D) Pray, Pray, and Pray
MAIN SCRIPTURE (John 13:12-17) – “When Jesus had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, ‘Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.’”
1. A Command for Disciples
John 13:34-35 – “Jesus said, ‘A new commandment I give you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples; if you have love for one another.”
2. An Example from Jesus
Mark 10:43-45 – “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
3. A Blessing through Service
1 John 3:18 – “Let us not love with words or talk, but with actions and in truth.”
Less fighting.
More intimacy.
Less materialism.
More joy.
C. S. Lewis – “There is no safe investment. To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly face the possibly of being broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully around with hobbies and little luxuries; lock it up safe in the casket of your selfishness. But in that casket—safe, dark, motionless, airless—it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. The only place outside Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers of love is Hell.”
Thanks for joining us for the second part of our series, "Fantasy Family". Pastor Rob will be walking us through the importance of communication in all of our relationships, but especially with our spouse.
He will show us 10 communication mistakes we need to avoid and truths from God's Word on how we can learn to communicate better in our relationships with others.
Teaching - 13:09
Discussion Questions HERE
Thanks for joining us as Pastor Phil kicks off his new series, "Fantasy Family". Today's teaching is is about establishing the Vision for our families that God desires for each one of us. Our scripture verse for today is Genesis 2:18-24.
1) A Solid Foundation
2) A Clear Priority
3) A Lasting Commitment
Invite a friend to check out this teaching online on any of our social media platforms!
Pastor Phil concludes our "Upgrade" series with part II of how to upgrade our relationships. The scripture verses for this teaching can be found in Romans 12: 17-21 (ESV).
1) The Undeniable Power of Forgiveness (verses 17-19)
Forgiveness is the default response for followers of Jesus
Forgiveness is undeniably powerful in the sight of everyone
Relationships cannot function without forgiveness
Forgiveness frees you to release the offender over to God
2) The Undefeatable Power of Love (Verses 20-21)
Teaching - 16:40
Discussion questions can be found HERE.
Thanks for joining us for worship today!
Romans 12:9-16 (ESV)
Teaching 14:52
Point 1: Relationships are paramount and pervasive
Point 2: Gospel imperatives always grow out of Gospel indicatives
Point 3: Objective Love (vv. 9-10)
Point 4: Instinctive Generosity (vv. 11-13)
Point 5: Reactive Mercy (v. 14)
Point 6: Proactive Grace (vv. 15-16)
• Multiply their joy
• Divide their sorrow
• Maximize their potential
“Generosity is an overflow of love for God, through Jesus Christ, where we joyfully and sacrificially give of ourselves to meet the needs of others. We give our time, talents, and treasure as the Lord has provided those things in order to be used for His Glory. We generously love our neighbors by meeting real-world needs and use our gifts to serve within the church.”
Discussion Questions can be found HERE
Romans 12:3-8 (ESV)
- Humility toward Others (v. 3)
- Community with Others (vv. 4-5)
- Utility for Others (vv. 6-8)
Worship is our comprehensive devotion to God in thought, word, and deed.
Discussion Questions here:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+(July+15th).pdf
Join us as Pastor Phil starts a new series, "Upgrade". Today's teaching is "Upgrade Your Worship" and our scripture verses are found in Romans 12: 1-2 (ESV).
Our teaching points are:
1) Better Sacrifice
2) Better Focus
3) Better Obedience
Pastor Phil defines worship as, "Our comprehensive devotion to God in thought, word, and deed."
You can view the discussion questions HERE
We invite you to join us as Pastor Bobby concludes our "Salt Life" series with a look at what the Bible has to say about drinking alcohol, using and abusing illegal drugs and legal drugs, legalized marijuana and more.
Our key scripture verses for today can be found in Ephesians 5: 15-21 and Hebrews 12:1-2. We will also be looking at the following key points relating to why we should adhere to God's standards in regards to using these substances.
1) The Purpose
2) The Place
3) The Perception
4) The Problem
5) The Proof
Discussion Questions can be viewed here:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+-+June+28th.pdf
Scripture verses: Genesis 1-27-28 and Matthew 28-18-20
- The Babylonian Balance
- The Constitutional Context
- The Governmental Guidelines
- The Principle Priority
- The Missional Motive
Discussion Questions link:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+-+June+21st.pdf
hanks for joining us for this third installment in our series, "Salt Life".
The scripture verses for this teaching are found in: Matthew 5 - 13 and John 10 - 10.
Teaching Points:
1) The Flavor of Life
a. The Origin of Life
b. The Value of Life
c. The Equality of Life
2) The Culture of Death
a. Abortion
b. Broken Homes
c. Physical Need
d. Human Trafficking
Discussion Questions: https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+-+June+14th.pdf
Resources listed: www.guardiangroup.org
Matthew 5:13, Luke 10:25-37 (ESV)
- A Woke World
A) Violent Revolution
B) Social Justice
C) Social Gospel
- A Salty Church
*A Salty Church is grounded in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus
*A Salty Church does not explain-away the obvious need
*A Salty Church connects with people
*A Salty Church understands the value of external resources
*A Salty Church begins with the end in mind
Discussion Questions at this link:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+-+June+7th.pdf
Matthew 5:13
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The Alphabet Soup
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The Salt
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Five Ways to Salt the Soup
A) Pray for yourself and your LGBT+ family & friends
B) Solidify your understanding about sexuality, gender, and identity
C) Do not buy into the orientation and
identity narrative
D) Recognize that the Lordship of Jesus Christ, not sexual ethics, is the heart of the
Gospel
E) Build bridges of hospitality with members of the LGBT+ community
Discussion Questions can be viewed here:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+-+May+31st.pdf
Thanks for joining us for this special Memorial Day weekend service. The scripture verses for today's teaching is:
"Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)
"Jesus said, 'Truly, truly I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever, but the son remains forever. So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed.'" (John 8:34-36)
1) National Freedom Isn't Free
2) Spiritual Freedom Isn't Free
Discussions Questions HERE
Join us as Pastor Phil concludes his series, "God Wrote A Book."
You don't want to miss this message as Pastor directs our attention to 3 important questions that everyone will have to address in their life.
Scripture verse is: 1 Peter 3:13-16
1) Is Jesus Really The Only Way To Heaven?
2) Why Would A Loving God Send Anyone To Hell?
3) If God Is Good, Why Is There So Much Pain And Suffering?
Key Points From This Teaching:
"An authentic explanation of the faith can only take place in the context of an authentic demonstration of the faith."
"How to live a Sunday faith in a Monday world."
"God is not who YOU think He is; God is who HE says He is."
"Pain and suffering are manifestations of live lived in a fallen world filled with fallen people. Difficulty with pain and suffering in a God-designed and God-controlled universe hinges on two things: (1) the depravity of the human heart and (2) the corruption of the creation."
Discussion Questions are here: https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/Discussion+Questions+-+May+17th.pd
Happy Mother's Day!
Proverbs 24: 3-4 (NIV)
Teaching Points:
1) Spiritual Priority
2) Biblical Intimacy
3) Scriptural Legacy
4) Visual Dependency
5) Relational Unity
6) Verbal Charity
Discussion Questions:
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Read Psalm 127:1 and Joshua 24:15. Why is the Lordship of Jesus Christ a key factor in having a spiritual priority for our families? How does this affect our marriages? How does this affect the way we raise our children?
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Phil defined a "Scriptural legacy" as a tangible Bible, but also as a life that has "lived in" and "lived out" that Bible. Did you ever receive a Scriptural legacy from someone? What does your own Scriptural legacy look like? Do you have one, and do you have a plan to pass it along?
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Why is it so important for our children (and grandchildren) to see us depending on God and on his Word? During this COVID-19 season, how have you had to depend on God? Have your children seen that dependence?
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When families love God and worship God TOGETHER in their homes and in their churches, it creates relational unity. What are some of the practical ways that you have loved God and worshiped God together as a family--both in your home and in your church? If you had an opportunity to encourage a younger family about this, what would you say?
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Read Ephesians 4:29 and James 1:19-20. How would you assess the words that are spoken in your home--be honest. Is your home a place filled with words of "unrighteous anger," or do the words spoken in your home give grace to the hearers? What are some practical ways that we can better love our family members with our words?
[Proverbs 24: 3-4] (NIV)
Teaching Points:
1) The Means
2) The Ways
3) The Ends
To view discussion questions click: https://s3.amazonaws.com/TeachingSeriesNotes/May+3rd%2C+2020+Discussion+Questions.pdf
"God Wrote A Book" - Human Agency
2 Peter 1:16-21 (ESV)
- The Writers
- The Scribes
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The Fathers
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Why did the early church make such a big deal about eyewitness testimony about Jesus (2 Peter 1:16-18; 1 John 1:1-3)? What is the value of their testimony (as recorded in the New Testament) for us today? Also, read Acts 4:13. What's the power of the statement that "they had been with Jesus"?
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Read 1 Peter 1:8 and discuss how the eyewitness testimony contained in the New Testament makes the truth of that verse possible.
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Is the Bible unique among all books ever written? If so, what makes it so unique and on what basis do we claim that it perfectly reveals the heart and mind of God?
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According to Phil, scribes hand-copied the New Testament manuscripts for 1,400 years prior to the invention of the printing press. What are your thoughts about the claim that, in spite of numerous minor copying errors over those 1,400 years, we can be certain that over 99% of what we have in the New Testament is exactly what the Apostles wrote? (This is a great topic for further discussion at Monday's FaceBook Live Q & A.)
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Are you surprised to hear that there were "other" Gospels floating around that did not make it into the New Testament? Think about the criteria for including/excluding books from the New Testament: Jesus as Christ, Jesus as fulfillment of the Old Testament, Jesus' death as atoning sacrifice, and Jesus' resurrection. Why were these specific criteria so important?
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Why is it so important to know the true story of how we got the Bible, especially in light of popular-level fiction like "The Da Vinci Code"?
Don't forget to go to www.slido.com and enter event code #63918 to submit your questions for our FaceBook Live Q & A session on Monday night (7:00-8:00 PM). You can submit your questions anytime. And don't forget to "like" which questions you want answered the most - the questions with the most "likes" will get answered first! See you on Monday night!
2 Timothy 3:14-16 (ESV)
*If God Wrote a Book, What's the Evidence?
--External Evidence
--Internal Evidence
--Eternal Evidence
*If God Wrote a Book, Who's the Audience?
Discussion Questions:
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What is a high view of Scripture, and why is a high view of Scripture important? Why is it dangerous when people, churches, and denominations walk away from a high view of the Scripture?
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How does the "internal evidence" that God wrote a book--i.e., amazing unity & cohesion and incredible prophetic accuracy--show us God's fingerprints on the Bible?
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How does the "unity of the Scripture" affect the way we read the Bible? How does this help us to better understand God's heart and mind on any given issue or question? How does this help us to address apparent "contradictions" in the Bible?
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How does the "eternal evidence" support the idea that God wrote a book? For example, read Hebrews 4:12 and discuss how the truth of this verse has been true in your life.
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Where would you be today if the book that God wrote did not have a place in your life? Where could you be tomorrow if the book that God wrote had an even greater place in your life?
1 Corinthians 15:1-8, 12-20, 50-58
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The Resurrection FACT (vv. 1-8)
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The Resurrection HOPE (vv. 12-20)
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The Resurrection VICTORY (vv. 50-58)
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What honest questions have you ever had about the resurrection? How has God given you confident faith that Jesus truly came out of the grave bodily and physically?
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Read Romans 1:4. How did the resurrection validate everything that Jesus ever said and did?
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Why would Paul say that if there's no resurrection, then we are "still in our sins"? Isn't that what the cross was supposed to take care of? So what is the relationship between the cross and the resurrection regarding forgiveness of sins? Read Romans 4:25 for additional insight.
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Read Isaiah 25:6-8 and look at the phrase "the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations." What did Phil say about this, and how does the resurrection victory (as illustrated in Hebrews 2:14-15) address it?
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How did Jesus absorb and defeat the "sting of death," and what were your thoughts on the Donald Grey Barnhouse story about the shadow of the truck?
John 12:1-21
Point #1 - Set the Pace for Adoring Jesus
Point #2 - Teach Your Children About the Death of Jesus
Point #3 - Don't Lose Sight of King Jesus
Point #4 - Remember that Easter is All About People Coming to Jesus
- In what way did Mary set the pace for adoring Jesus? Think about Luke 10:38-42 as well as John 12:1-6. How will you set the pace in your home for adoring Jesus?
- Think about the picture of the people standing next to the cross with hammers and nails in their hands. What did Phil mean when he said, "You can't fully appreciate the power of the cross until you first connect yourself personally with the cross"?
- Have you ever used "the bridge" illustration to share the good news about the cross with someone else? What happened? How could you use that illustration in the future?
- Why is the Lord's Supper such a powerful reminder of the death of Jesus? Why is it so important to remember the death of Jesus?
- What are some of the things that might distract us from King Jesus during this season of pandemic, economic turmoil, and political maneuvering? How can we stay focused on Jesus as King?
- Why is the Easter message of resurrection hope more relevant now than ever? Why? How can we maximize this opportunity to share this good news with people?
“God’s Goodness in Tough Times”
Lamentations 3:20-24
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Reality About Tough Times (v. 20)
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Purpose In Tough Times (v. 21)
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Lessons From Tough Times (vv. 22-23)
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Confidence Through Tough Times (v. 24)
Click HERE to view Discussion Questions
"The Church Has Left The Building" (Philippians 2:12-16)
Discussion Questions: (Click here to download and/or view questions in a PDF)
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What do you think about Phil's statement when he said that Jesus is just as present in a Life Group gathering (in a living room or on-line) as he is when we have 800 people on campus for Sunday services? Why? What does it mean for our Life Groups in the days ahead?
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Why does stress, anxiety, and fear make us want to "tap out" of active involvement in life, relationships, and fellowship? What stresses, anxieties, and fears are you currently facing? Be honest!
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In what specific ways do you see yourself "working out" your salvation in the days ahead? Why is it important to do so?
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Are you struggling to have a positive attitude these days? Be honest! How does the "joy of the Lord" make a difference? For that matter, what is the joy of the Lord?
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What are some specific ways that I can encourage others with Jesus-centered optimism and hope in the days ahead?
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How will I (and my Life Group) engage in compassionate service and ministry in the days ahead?
Philippians 4:4-9
- Faith > Fear
- Prayer > Panic
- Witness > Worry
"The good things become bad things when they keep you from the best things." Adrian Rogers
"When God is at the center of my life, I worship. When God is not at the center of my life, I worry." Rick Warren
"The people who know their God will stand firm and take action." - Daniel 11:32
Colossians 3:15-21
- Jesus should be first in everything.
- God's word teaches mutual submission in the marriage relationship.
- Lead your children to submit by shaping their hearts toward God.
Colossians 3:1-14
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Sin Wrecks Relationships with God and People
a. Sin wrecks relationships with God
b. Sin wrecks relationships with people -
Love Builds Bridges with God and People
a. Love for others reflects God's love for us
b. Love for others cultivates unity in the body
c. Love for others provides context for our message
Colossians 3:1-17
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Union with Christ
Crucified with Him
Raised with Him
Seated with Him
Hidden with Him -
Focus on Christ
Wall Street vs. Streets of Gold
Breaking News vs. Good News
Present Pain vs. Future Glory
Virtual Reality vs. Heavenly Finality
Colossians 2:8, 16-23
- Explanation: You Can't Improve Upon Jesus
- Application: Jesus + Nothing = Everything
Joy
Love
Unity
Reach
#ChristInYou
Colossians 2:6-15
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Stability is a Mark of Maturity
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Fidelity is a Mark of Maturity
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Identity is a Mark of Maturity
(Colossians 1:19-23)
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God has a heart for reconciliation
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We have a need for reconciliation
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God has a plan for reconciliation
A disciple is "a growing follower of Jesus, who lives and loves like Jesus, and who leads others to follow him."
"His Preeminence, Our Priority"
Colossians 1:15-18
1) His Preeminence
Jesus is the image of the invisible God
Jesus is the firstborn of all Creation
*In Jesus, all things hold together
2) Our Priority
Join us as we continue our study of the Book of Colossians. #ChristInYou
Today we are studying chapter 1, verses 3 through 14. Our emphasis points are:
1) Faith in Jesus
2) Love for People
3) Hope for Heaven
4) Growth in Knowledge
5) Thanks to God
(Colossians 1:1-2, Acts 26:4-5, 9-11, 12-23)
- A Militant Hater of Jesus (Acts 26:4-5, 9-11)
- A Personal Experience with Jesus (Acts 26:12-18)
- A Radical Change through Jesus (Acts 26:19-23)
- A Powerful Message about Jesus (Colossians 1: 1-2)
#ChristInYou
(Matthew 1:18-25)
- The Identity of the Savior
- The Necessity of the Savior
- The Gravity of the Savior
Luke 1:26-38
- A Humble Context (vv. 26-27)
- A Divine Baby (vv. 28-33)
- An Honest Conversation (vv. 34-37)
- A Simple Commitment (v. 38)
- Royal Heredity
2.Grace Trajectory
3.Christmas Delivery
Real Grace for Real People with Real Problems
God's Grace > Your Past + Your Present
*God's Grace Casts a Really Big Net
A Disciple is "a growing follower of Jesus, who lives and loves like Jesus, and who leads others to follow Him."
Join us as we wrap up our Sermon on the Mount series over the next two Sundays. Our text today is from Matthew 6:25 - 7:12.
Thanks for joining us for our special Mission Conference service today. We will be hearing from several missionaries that are being sponsored by Crossgate Church and who are spreading the Good News around the world.
Join us as Dr. Phil Kramer, our Lead Pastor candidate, brings us a message about The Great Commission. Dr. Phil tells us that the Church cannot afford to disobey this commandment from Jesus Christ. God calls us to go out into our neighborhood, our country, and the world to make disciples. We invite you to listen to this life-changing message that every Christ-follower should take to heart.
Join us as we continue our series on the "Sermon on the Mount". Today's teaching is based on Matthew 5:17-20.
1 - Claim Your Identity
2 - Center Your Relationship
3 - Define Your Results
Matthew 5:13-16
Join us as we start a new series, "Sermon On The Mount". You don't want to miss a Sunday as we explore the greatest sermon ever preached!
Pastor Rob talks about the 3 ways the Church approaches the relationship between Christianity and the Culture.
Foundational Truth #1: The GOSPEL - Christ alone is our confession. (v 13-17)
“I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept his claim to be God. That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic—on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg—or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him and kill him as a demon or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God, but let us not come with any patronising nonsense about his being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to. . . .” - C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity
“I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the rock of ages.” - Charles Spurgeon
Foundational Truth #2: The COMMUNITY - This Cornerstone is our connection. (v 18)
“Being a Christian is more fundamental to your identity than your family, your ethnicity, your profession, your nationality, your sexuality, your personality - or any other way this world defines identity. And so the unity you share with every Christian supersedes every other bond.” From The Compelling Community by Mark Dever & Jamie Dunlop
“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18
“All who agree with the confession of Peter are Peters themselves setting a sure foundation.” - Martin Luther
Foundational Truth #3: The MISSION - The Keys to the Throne are in our possession. (v 19-20)
“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” - Matthew 16:19
“Then [Jesus] strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ.” Matthew 16:20
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus commanded us to go, to our neighborhoods, our country and the world with the Good News. How are we doing in this mission?
Pastor Rob concludes this two-part series on the importance of placing your hope in the right person, not your circumstances, resources or each other. Only Jesus Christ provides us with hope for this life and the life to come.
Today's teaching is based on Hebrews 10:19-25 -
Drawing Near to God in Enduring Faith 19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the fresh and living way that he inaugurated for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a sincere heart in the assurance that faith brings, because we have had our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. 23 And let us hold unwaveringly to the hope that we confess, for the one who made the promise is trustworthy. 24 And let us take thought of how to spur one another on to love and good works, 25 not abandoning our own meetings, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and even more so because you see the day drawing near.
PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER . . .
When we pray for one another we intercede on someone’s behalf in the same way Jesus intercedes for us.
“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.” Romans 8:34
“Consequently, He (Jesus) is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25
“I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours.” John 17:9
“If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me.” Robert Murray M’Cheyne (Pastor of St. Peter’s Church, Scotland (1836-1843)
When we pray for one another it is an act of grace.
When we pray for one another we are being obedient to God.
“Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and right way.” 1 Samuel 12:23
When we pray for one another we are doing that which is most helpful in moments where we feel helpless.
We are asking God to do what only He can do.
When we pray for one another we join Christ in His intercession.
When we pray for one another we are coming alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ in the spiritual battles that are raging.
When we pray for one another God uses it for our own sanctification.
It is impossible to harbor sin in your heart toward someone for whom you are sincerely praying.
Instead of complaining about them, pray for them.
We’re not to pray for God to bend their hearts toward our agenda, but to bend their hearts toward His.
When we pray for one another it takes focus off of ourselves and puts it on others.
“ . . . praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints . . .” Ephesians 6:18
When we pray for one another God changes the world.
People who are changed by prayer are people who God uses to change the world.
HOW WE PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER . . .
Pray scripture over one another.
When you pray Scripture, you are praying the word of God which is the will of God.
“And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15
Pray for one another to have spiritual wisdom and understanding (Ephesians 1:17)
Pray for one another to have spiritual eyes to see and hope realized. (Ephesians 1:18)
Pray for one another to know of the immeasurable greatness of God’s power. (Ephesians 1:19)
Pray for one another to be strengthened with power through the Spirit of God at work in them. (Ephesians 3:16)
Pray for one another to be rooted and grounded in the love of Christ, and to know the fullness of Christ’s love. (Ephesians 3:17-19)
Pray for one another to have knowledge and discernment so as to approve what is spiritually excellent. (Philippians 1:9-10)
Pray for one another to be filled with the fruit of righteousness. (Philippians 1:11)
Pray for one another to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. (Colossians 1:9)
Pray for one another to walk in a way that is worthy of Christ. (Colossians 1:10)
Pray for one another to bear fruit in every good work. (Colossians 1:10)
Pray for one another to be strengthened so that they might have endurance and patience with joy. (Colossians 1:11)
WHO IS YOUR “ONE ANOTHER”? . . .
On whose behalf are you struggling in prayer?
THE WHY OF HOSPITALITY . . .
Showing hospitality is putting flesh on the gospel.
THE WHAT OF HOSPITALITY . . .
Showing hospitality is intentionally choosing to engage, not to separate or isolate.
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:7
“Biblical hospitality chooses to engage rather than unplug, open rather than close, initiate rather than sit idly.” Simplest Way to Change the World
Showing hospitality is not reserved only for those you like and who are like you. (Luke 10:25-37; Ephesians 2:11-13)
“We who formerly hated and murdered one another . . . now live together and share the same table. Now we pray for our enemies and try to win those who hate us.” Justin Martyr, second-century church father
God is pursuing every tribe, tongue, and nation and He does so through a hospitable people who have been redeemed by a hospitable God.
Showing hospitality opens the door for authentic community.
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God, but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” 1 Thessalonians 2:8
“Great community is forged, not found.” Todd Wagner, Lead Pastor at Watermark Community Church
Showing hospitality changes the world.
When we welcome others as Christ has welcomed us, it can change the world.
Serving one another ultimately means serving others as Jesus has served you.
When you serve one another, you tangibly display the love of God.
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13
Love compels you to serve
When you serve one another, without pretense, you display the grace of God.
“As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace . . .” 1 Peter 4:10
When you serve one another, you follow the example of Jesus.
“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:5-8
“ . . . even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28
When you serve one another, you are changing the world.
If loving one another changes the world, and loving one another is visibly expressed in serving one another, then serving one another can change the world.
In order to serve one another well, you need to be aware of the needs around you.
(Mark 2; The story of the paralytic)
Colossians 3:12-13; Ephesians 4:32-5:2
CHOOSING TO FORGIVE …
When I choose to forgive, I’m choosing to not hold a person’s offense against them.
It’s not keeping a ledger of offenses.
Those who have offended you can never pay back what you think they owe you.
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” Ephesians 4:31
When I hold on to unforgiveness, I am being outwitted by Satan.
“Anyone whom you forgive, I forgive also. Indeed, what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of Christ, so that we would not be out witted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.” 2 Corinthians 2:10-11
Unforgiveness in your heart destroys you, not the one who has wounded you.
“ … the problem is that being a ‘debt collector’ does more than keep our offender in debtors’ prison; it puts us in prison.” Nancy Leigh DeMoss, Choosing Forgiveness
Unforgiveness is sin; sin is toxic; what is toxic will destroy you.
THE GRACE OF FORGIVENESS …
To forgive one another is to extend grace that you have freely received from God.
“ … as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” Colossians 3:13
Having a correct view of our sinfulness and need of the grace of God’s forgiveness is always the necessary first step in forgiving those who have offended and wounded us.
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace …” Ephesians 1:7
To forgive one another is to imitate the very person and character of God.
“Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2
HOW DO I FORGIVE … ?
In your struggle to forgive, trust that God is more than enough.
“The key to this is how important and how satisfying to us is the fact that God knows we have been hurt, that God understands, and that God attends to us. God feels with us. He is a merciful High Priest. Is that enough?” John Piper
Don’t let minor offenses become permanent obstacles.
“ … bearing with one another …” Colossians 3:13a
Refuse to allow the sin of unforgiveness to go unchecked. (Psalm 139:23-34)
Ask God to help you forgive.
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
How do you get through moments like this?
You might not need this message right now, but at some point, in your life, you will experience affliction and the sorrow that accompanies it. It may be the death of a loved one, a terminal diagnosis, a prodigal child, a broken marriage, the pain and struggle of addiction, and there are many more we could mention, that afflicts the soul. The brokenness of this world leaves no one unscathed.
And when those moments of affliction and sorrow come, how do you move forward? How are we, as the children of God, to respond?
- In your affliction, cry out to God.
He empathizes with our pain.
When Jesus’s good friend Lazarus died, Jesus wept. When Jesus was praying in the garden before His arrest and eventual crucifixion, He was afflicted.
“My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with Me.” And going a little farther He fell on His face and prayed saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:38-39
“In My distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I cried for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears.” Psalm 18:6
“When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.” Psalm 34:7
- In your affliction, let it drive you to God’s word.
“Before I was afflicted, I went astray . . . It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.” (Your law is more valuable to me than millions in gold and silver.). Psalm 119:67, 71-72
- In your affliction, trust in God and rest in His comfort.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our afflictions, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
We can trust that God is merciful in that the pain we experience is not without purpose; it is never wasted. It would be a merciless thing if the pain we suffered, as children of God, did not ultimately result in His glory and our good. But according to His word, the sufferings of this life don’t come close to comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
- The comfort of His word.
“This is my comfort in my affliction, that Your promise gives me life.” Psalm 119:50
- The comfort of His presence.
He may not feel near, but He is.
“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort Me.” Psalm 23:4
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Isaiah 41:1b-3a
“The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
- The comfort of His people. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17
Romans 12 speaks of rejoicing with one another and weeping with those who weep.
You need people who love Jesus and who love you to be present. That’s why being a part of the body of Christ is God’s design. We need one another. Paul makes that clear in 1 Corinthians 12 when he speaks about the Church being like a body. He said, “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” (v. 26). The body of Christ is to be the tangible, visible presence of Jesus to the world, and in the case of those among us who are afflicted and suffering we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Thanks for joining us this morning as we talk about Blended Families. We will have testimonies from two couples discussing the joys and challenges of being an blended family as well as Pastor Shawn teaching us biblical truths about the role of the church in encouraging and edifying blended families in their faith journeys.
Honor One Another, An Attitude of the Heart
- The 11th Commandment is a call to love one another.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” – John 13:34-35
- A call to love is lived out by honoring/preferring one another.
“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another” - Romans 12:10
“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” - Philippians 2:1-4
- A call to honor/prefer one another demands an attitude of humility.
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” - Philippians 2:5-11
2 Corinthians 1:3-10 (ESV)
“In the world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
A comfort greater than any other comforts you may find.
2 Corinthians 1:3 (ESV)
2 Corinthians 1:5 (ESV)
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV)
A comfort greater than any afflictions you may face.
2 Corinthians 2:4a (ESV)
2 Corinthians 1:4a (ESV)
2 Corinthians 4:7-9 (ESV)
A comfort that guarantees your suffering has a purpose.
2 Corinthians 1:8-9 (ESV)
“I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.” Charles Spurgeon
Romans 8:28-30 (ESV)
It Is Well Lyrics
When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul
It is well (It is well)
With my soul (With my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, o my soul
And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12
DEFINING KINDNESS . . .
Kindness is a display of the character and heart of God that speaks to every human soul.
EXPRESSING KINDNESSS . . .
- True kindness is an overflow of the kindness of God shown to us in Jesus Christ.
“ . . . so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:7
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It is loving others with kindness the way Jesus has shown His loving-kindness towards us.
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True kindness is produced by the Spirit of God in the life of a Christ-follower.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23
- True kindness has the power to soften hard hearts and open closed doors.
“In this batch of mail, I also received a letter from Pastor Ken Smith, then—pastor of the Syracuse Reformed Presbyterian Church. It was a kind and inquiring letter. It encouraged me to explore the kind of questions I admire: How did you arrive at your interpretations/. How do you know you are right? Do you believe in God? He didn’t argue with my article; he asked me to explore and defend the presuppositions that undergirded it. I didn’t really know how to respond to Ken’s letter, but I found myself reading and re-reading it. I didn’t know which box to file this letter in, and so it sat on my desk and haunted me . . . I threw it away a few times but always found myself digging through the department’s recycling bin to reclaim it at the day’s end . . . It was the kindest letter of opposition that I had ever received. After a week, I called (him).” Rosaria Butterfield, The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert
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Kindness stirs curiosity in the minds of the unsuspecting.
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Kindness is like a non-threatening knock on the closed door of suspicion.
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Kindness is a gentle touch to a wounded
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True kindness pursues in love the one who is wandering and presses in to the one who is unaware.
- To not pursue the one who is wandering and press in to the one who is unaware is “misdirected kindness.”
- “misdirected kindness”–the tendency of people to be “kind” to others when the proper, loving, and kind response is something we tend to think of as unpleasant.
- To not pursue the one who is wandering and press in to the one who is unaware is “misdirected kindness.”
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Kindness, not rooted in love, easily becomes more concerned about a person’s happiness rather than their holiness.
“ . . . God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance.” Romans 2:4
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.” Proverbs 27:5-6
ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER . . .
- Encourage one another by how you live out your faith in Jesus.
“For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” Romans 1:11-12
- So others will see that our faith is not empty.
- So others will see that our faith points to our hope in Jesus.
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So others will see that our faith forms how we live.
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Encourage one another by speaking sincere words that build up, not tear
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29
“Death and life are found in the power of the tongue . . .” Proverbs 18:21a
- Encourage one another to love like Jesus and do good.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works . . .” Hebrews 10:24
- Encourage one another by gathering together as followers of Jesus.
“ . . . not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25
- Encourage one another when they become weary in doing good.
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:9,10
LOVE LIKE JESUS . . .
What makes it possible for us to love like Jesus is because He first loved us.
“We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
We are undeserving recipients of His unconditional and unending love.
WHY LOVE? . . .
Because God has loved us, we should love one another the way He loves us.
“ . . . just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” John 13:34
We are to love differently than the world.
“If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.” Luke 6:32
We are to love people who are hard to love.
“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” Luke 6:27-31
We are to love people selflessly.
“It (love) does not insist on its on way.” 1 Corinthians 13:5
We are to love people sacrificially.
“When we love others, we are being the hands and feet of Jesus. Jesus loved the marginalized, rejected, and forgotten. And at the end of His life, His hands and feet were nailed to a cross. Real love demands something of us, and it will lead us into suffering.” Francis Chan, Letters to the Church
To love in a way that you’re willing to sacrifice your time.
To love in a way that you’re willing to sacrifice your position and pride.
“ . . . who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2:6-7
To love in a way that you’re willing to sacrifice your possessions.
“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? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3:17-18
To love in a way that you’re willing to sacrifice your life.
“This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12-13
To love in a way that you expect nothing in return.
“And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.” Luke 6:34-35
We are to love people sincerely.
“If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother or sister, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother or sister who he has seen cannot love God who he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother and sister.” 1 John 4:20-21
Because what makes the people of God attractive to the world is how well we love one another.
“By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35
“No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and His love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:12
The opportunities to give seem to happen at the most inconvenient times, and in the most desolate places.
“Now when it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, ‘This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus replied, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” Matthew 14:15-16
The little we have is made much when surrendered to an all-sufficient God.
“There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?’ Jesus said, ‘Have the people sit down.’ Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. Jesus then took the loaves, and when He had given thanks, He distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted.” John 6:9-11
“And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.” Matthew 14:21
God has a way of multiplying the effect of our limited resources.
The sacrifice in giving is never greater than the outpouring of God’s blessing.
“And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over.” (Matthew 14:20)
Join us this morning as Pastor Shawn continues his series, "The Best Christmas Ever!" Today's teaching is on how you can know true peace this holiday season (and beyond).
CHRISTMAS BREAD . . .
- Jesus is the bread of life.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? . . .
- Jesus is God’s gracious provision for our salvation.
- The bread of life, Jesus, is essential for eternal life.
“For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” John 6:33
- This bread of life is not worked for, it is received by faith.
“Then they said to Him, ‘What must we do, to be doing the works of God?’ Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.’” John 6:28-29
- Jesus is God’s gracious provision for the spiritually hungry
- The bread of life, Jesus, is the sustaining source of our life.
“I AM the bread of life; whoever comes to Me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in Me shall never thirst.” John 6:35
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.” John 6:51
“This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” John 6:58
WHAT’S THE POINT? . . .
- Don’t waste your life on that which will never satisfy what your soul craves.
“Do not labor for food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on Him God the Father has set His seal.” John 6:27
UGLY SWEATER, UGLY SIN . . .
We tend to treat sin as though it is an ugly sweater that has become fashionable.
“If we say we have fellowship with Him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:6-8
“The barrier I have met is almost total absence from the minds of my audience of any sense of sin.” C.S. Lewis
Jesus came to satisfy the wrath of God that we deserve for our sin.
“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.” Romans 1:18
“He (Jesus) is the propitiation (payment) for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” 1 John 2:2
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” John 3:36
Our sin is such an offense against God that only sending His Son into this world could rescue us from sin’s grip and satisfy the wrath we deserve.
Our sins are not merely a mistake, but a moral transgression against a holy God.
“Everyone who commits sin practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.” 1 John 3:4
A BEAUTIFUL EXCHANGE . . .
Jesus took the ugliness of my sin, so I could be clothed in the beauty of His rescuing grace.
“For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
“He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24
God’s response to our rebellion was to give us Himself.
John Newton, near the end of his life said, “My memory is nearly gone; but I remember two things: that I am a great sinner, and that Christ is a great Savior.”
“And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing it to the cross.” Colossians 2:13-14
“He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14
"Advent" (Isaiah 9:2-7; 11:1-2; 12:1-2, 25:6-9)
Works cited/Recommended Reading:
- ESV Study Bible
- Hidden Christmas by Tim Keller
- Christians in the Age of Outrage by Ed Stetzer
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Come Let Us Adore Him: A Daily Advent Devotional by Paul Tripp
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1. Joy to the world!
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- Isaiah 9:3 (ESV)
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“Outrage functions as an odd catharsis for our insecurities, fears, and sense of powerlessness.” - Ed Stetzer
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“You can’t hate people and engage them with the gospel at the same time. You can’t war with people and show the love of Jesus. You can’t be both outraged and on mission.” - Ed Stetzer
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2. God rest ye merry gentlemen!
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- Isaiah 11:1-2 (ESV)
- Isaiah 12:1-2 (ESV)
- [Linus dropping blanket image - attached]
- Luke 2:10-11 (ESV)
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3. Come thou long expected Jesus!
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- Isaiah 25:6-9 (ESV)
- Psalm 13:1-2a (ESV)
The Cheerful Giver 6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifullyd]">[d] 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. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiencye]">[e] in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written,
“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.”
10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, theyf]">[f] will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you.15 Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Being spiritually healthy means daily evaluating your heart to see if there is anything hindering growth.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” Psalm 139:23-24
A heart that is spiritually dead
“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!” 2 Corinthians 13:5
A heart that is spiritually alive
Alive, but there is blockage (lack of spiritual vitality; energy; passion)
Alive and thriving.
Being spiritually healthy means that you are consistently growing in Christ
There is no growing as a follower of Christ apart from abiding in Christ.
“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. 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.” John 15:4-5
Increasing in the knowledge of His will. (Colossians 1:9)
Living in a way that honors Christ. (Colossians 1:10)
Giving evidence of Christ in me (Colossians 1:10)
Being spiritually healthy means that you are connected to the body of Christ.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25
“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, bondservants or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit . . .The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you,’ nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you’ . . . that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, 21, 25-26
To believe you can be a growing follower of Christ without being connected to the body of Christ is like saying a branch can produce apples without it being connected to an apple tree.
Being spiritually healthy means that you are fulfilling your calling as a disciple of Christ.
“I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3
“ . . . when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” Ephesians 4:16b
THE CORE: A LETTER TO THE LUKEWARM
Revelation 3:14-22
Jesus knows the true condition of your heart.
“I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.” Revelation 3:15-16
“For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.” Revelation 3:17
Life-change never happens until a person comes to an understanding of their true
“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23,24
Jesus has what you need most.
“I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see.” Revelation 3:18
Jesus disciplines all who are lukewarm.
“Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline . . .” Revelation 3:19
" . . . but He (God) disciplines us for our good, that we may share in His holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:10b-11
He will discipline you before the sin you’re living in destroys
Jesus calls all who are lukewarm to repentance.
“ . . . so be zealous and repent.” Revelation 3:19b
Jesus is inviting you into a deeper relationship with Him.
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.” Revelation 3:20-21
Jesus is urging you to respond to what the Spirit is saying.
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 3:22
Psalm 107 Let the Redeemed of the Lord Say So 1 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever!
2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
whom he has redeemed from troublea]">[a]
3 and gathered in from the lands,
from the east and from the west,
from the north and from the south.
4 Some wandered in desert wastes,
finding no way to a city to dwell in;
5 hungry and thirsty,
their soul fainted within them.
6 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,
and he delivered them from their distress.
7 He led them by a straight way
till they reached a city to dwell in.
8 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love,
for his wondrous works to the children of man!
9 For he satisfies the longing soul,
and the hungry soul he fills with good things.
10 Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death,
prisoners in affliction and in irons,
11 for they had rebelled against the words of God,
and spurned the counsel of the Most High.
12 So he bowed their hearts down with hard labor;
they fell down, with none to help.
13 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,
and he delivered them from their distress.
14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death,
and burst their bonds apart.
15 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love,
for his wondrous works to the children of man!
16 For he shatters the doors of bronze
and cuts in two the bars of iron.
17 Some were fools through their sinful ways,
and because of their iniquities suffered affliction;
18 they loathed any kind of food,
and they drew near to the gates of death.
19 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,
and he delivered them from their distress.
20 He sent out his word and healed them,
and delivered them from their destruction.
21 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love,
for his wondrous works to the children of man!
22 And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving,
and tell of his deeds in songs of joy!
23 Some went down to the sea in ships,
doing business on the great waters;
24 they saw the deeds of the Lord,
his wondrous works in the deep.
25 For he commanded and raised the stormy wind,
which lifted up the waves of the sea.
26 They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths;
their courage melted away in their evil plight;
27 they reeled and staggered like drunken men
and were at their wits' end.b]">[b]
28 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,
and he delivered them from their distress.
29 He made the storm be still,
and the waves of the sea were hushed.
30 Then they were glad that the watersc]">[c] were quiet,
and he brought them to their desired haven.
31 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love,
for his wondrous works to the children of man!
32 Let them extol him in the congregation of the people,
and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
33 He turns rivers into a desert,
springs of water into thirsty ground,
34 a fruitful land into a salty waste,
because of the evil of its inhabitants.
35 He turns a desert into pools of water,
a parched land into springs of water.
36 And there he lets the hungry dwell,
and they establish a city to live in;
37 they sow fields and plant vineyards
and get a fruitful yield.
38 By his blessing they multiply greatly,
and he does not let their livestock diminish.
39 When they are diminished and brought low
through oppression, evil, and sorrow,
40 he pours contempt on princes
and makes them wander in trackless wastes;
41 but he raises up the needy out of affliction
and makes their families like flocks.
42 The upright see it and are glad,
and all wickedness shuts its mouth.
43 Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things;
let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.
THE CORE: WHY WE VALUE COMMUNITY
Genesis 1:26-27; 2:18; Acts 2:42-47
WE VALUE COMMUNITY . . .
Because God has created us for community.
- We are hardwired for relationships with God and with others.
- To have a relationship with God.
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, after our likeness . . . So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Genesis 1:26a, 27
- To have a relationship with others.
“Then the LORD God said, ‘It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Genesis 2:18
- It is not a suggestion, but it is essential to our overall well-being.
- Where there is no community there is isolation and loneliness.
Because the essence of the gospel is best displayed in the context of community.
“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers . . . And all who believed were together and had all things in common . . . And day by day, attending temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people.” Acts 2:42,44,46, 47a
- We live out the “one another’s” that reflect the work of the gospel in us.
“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20
Because the mission of the gospel is best advanced through authentic community.
“And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:47b
- If you want to change the world, love your neighbor
HITTING THE BULLSEYE OF COMMUNITY. . .
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Eliminate the chaos so you can engage in community.
- Community is often crowded out by the chaos of our lives.
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Take radical steps to create margin for what matters most.
- Busyness is the greatest threat to community.
- What do you value?
- Let your values drive your decisions.
- What do you value?
- Busyness is the greatest threat to community.
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Become intentional in cultivating relationships with people who have a common purpose, in a common place.
“And all who believed were together and had all things in common.” Acts 2:44
- Stop making excuses for not engaging in authentic community.
THE CORE: AUTHENTICITY
1 Corinthians 2:1-5; 2 Corinthians 6:3-11; Philippians 3:12-16
AUTHENTICITY’S ENEMY . . .
- One of the greatest hindrances to authenticity is fear.
- The fear of being known.
- The fear of what others might say or think about me.
- The fear of seeing what I know to be true but don’t want to admit.
- The fear of being rejected.
AT THE CORE OF AUTHENTICITY . . .
- Authenticity is not being true to yourself but being true to who you are in Christ.
“Spiritual pride is the illusion that we are competent to run our own lives, achieve our own sense of self-worth, and find a purpose big enough to give us meaning in life without God.” Tim Keller
- Authenticity is having courage to admit you don’t have it all together but resting in the truth that God does.
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own because Christ Jesus has made me His own.” Philippians 3:12
“Caution: If you trade in your authenticity for safety, you may experience the following: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, rage, blame, resentment, and inexplicable grief.” Brené Brown
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.” 2 Corinthians 4:7-10
- Authenticity is not celebrating your brokenness but confessing your brokenness and your need for forgiveness.
- It’s not being comfortable in sin but humbly confessing sin and the need for genuine repentance.
“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:8-9
AUTHENTIC WITNESS . . .
The world doesn’t need to see a life cloaked in religious piety. The world needs to see a people transformed by, and clothed in, the righteousness of Christ.
Psalm 133:1-3
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We shall never know the full power of the anointing of God until we are of one heart and one spirit as we learn to forgive.
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In our lives
- In our families
- In His church
Ephesians 4:32 Matthew 18:21-35
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God calls us to forgive because He has forgiven us and He knows we can never reach our spiritual destiny if we refuse.
-
Forgiveness is not
-
Condoning
- Reconciling
- Forgetting
- A feeling
-
About the other person
-
Forgiveness is
-
To pardon an offense and give up the right to be repaid
- Agreeing to not hold it over their head
- Trying to move ahead constructively with the relationship
Psalm 139:23-24
- Steps to Forgive
- Remember what you have been forgiven of.
- Pray and search your own heart
- Pursue reconciliation
Matthew 28:18-20
1) God's mission is to reach the world.
2) All Christians are called to join God in His mission.
3) Effective Participation in God's mission demands discipline.
PRAYER: MORE THAN JUST WORDS
Joshua 6:1-20
“Bold prayers honor God, and God honors bold prayers. God isn’t offended by your biggest dreams or boldest prayers. He is offended by anything less. If your prayers aren’t impossible to you, they are insulting to God. Why? Because they don’t require divine intervention. But ask God to part the Red Sea or make the sun stand still or float an iron axhead, and God is moved to omnipotent action.” Mark Batterson, The Circle Maker
- God is the One who removes obstacles that stand in the way of His purposes.
“And the LORD said to Joshua, ‘See, I have given Jericho into your hand, with its king and mighty men of valor.’” Joshua 6:2
- God works through our faith to do that which seems impossible.
“So Joshua the son of Nun called the priests and said to them, ‘Take up the ark of the covenant and let seven priests bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the LORD.’ And he said to the people, ‘Go forward. March around the city and let the armed men pass on before the ark of the LORD.’” Joshua 6:6-7
“Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27
- We are unable, but God says, “I AM able.”
-
Our obedience to God affirms our faith in God.
-
God does that which seems impossible so that all the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty and that you may fear the LORD your God forever. “For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan for you until you passed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red Sea, which he dried up for us until we passed over, so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” Joshua 4:23-24
-
God invites us to pray bold “Jericho-sized” prayers that only He can answer.
“And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15
“Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8
A BOLD PRAYER . . .
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God, free us from this debt as we affirm our faith in you by our obedience to you.
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God, by Your grace, free us from this debt by June 9, 2019.
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God, do this for your glory more than our relief. (Joshua 4:23-24)
THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE . . .
- There is a daily spiritual battle that you will either engage in or be indifferent
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6:10-13
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We give the enemy an advantage when we fail to see, each morning we awake, that we are stepping onto a battlefield that is otherworldly.
-
Indifference happens when we fail to recognize that we live in a war zone of spiritual forces that are bent on deceiving and destroying you.
-
Indifference leads to destruction, but in the life of a Christ-follower engaging in prayer leads to spiritual victory.
-
To engage in the spiritual battle is to pray at all times in the Spirit with alertness and perseverance.
“In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints . . .” Ephesians 6:16-18
THE ENEMY’S TACTICS . . .
“ . . . that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”
- The enemy’s desire is to tempt us so that sin might rule us and ultimately destroy
“The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy.” John 10:10a
THE WEAPONS OF OUR WARFARE . . .
“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every obedience, when your obedience is complete.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-6
Watchful praying is our strong defense against the temptations of the enemy.
“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41
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Satan will always seek to turn God’s testing into an opportunity for temptation.
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It is for us to pray, and for God to war. (Daniel 10)
“The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” Exodus 14:14
Matthew 6:5-13
PRAYING GOD’S WORD . . .
- Powerful and effective prayer is shaped by the abiding word of Christ in you.
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” John 15:7
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The desires of your heart will be shaped by the extent of your delight in His word.
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God answers prayers that are saturated with the truth of His word.
“For all the promises of God find their Yes in Him. That is why it is through Him that we utter our Amen to God for His glory.” 2 Corinthians 1:20
“God only answers petitions that His Son has had a hand in formulating.” D.M. Mc’ Intyre (Late 1800’s Scottish preacher)
“And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15
- His word is His will.
PATIENT IN THE WAITING . . .
- God is faithful to perform His word, so be patient in the waiting.
“Then the LORD said to me, ‘You have seen well, for I am watching over My word to perform it.’” Jeremiah 1:12
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Patient waiting is God’s workout regimen for faith strengthening.
- In your patient waiting, press in with persistent
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Patience is God's gracious gift of preparing us to receive and experience His best.
PRAYING PRACITCALLY . . .
- Write down some specific requests you are praying for and ask these clarifying questions:
- What promises in Scripture (not taken out of context) has God given regarding my requests?
- Are my prayers centered around my will or God’s will?
- How persistent am I being in prayer?
- Am I trusting that God is performing His word by patiently waiting, or am I trying to make things happen on my own?
Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Romans 12:12b
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” Colossians 4:2
“ . . . pray without ceasing . . .” 1 Thessalonians 5:17
“ . . . be constant in prayer.” Romans 12:12b
GOD’S INVITATION . . .
Prayer is God’s invitation to enter into His presence.
Everything flows from the presence of God.
“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11
MY NEED . . .
Genuine prayer is admitting to God that you desperately need Him.
“ . . . for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5b
“I lift my eyes up to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2
MY WORK . . .
Prayer is work because pressing into Jesus requires pushing against the enemy.
“Satan’s greatest fear is the presence of God. When God shows up in power, Satan must flee—not just walk away, but run. So he continually tempts us to do anything that will abort God’s presence.” Bill Elliff, The Presence-Centered Church
Satan has a way of making the moment seem more appealing than God’s presence.
“And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.” Genesis 3:8
What may be keeping you from pressing into the presence of God is your pursuit of the garden but not the God of the garden.
What may be keeping you from desiring to press into the presence of God is your shame.
“Jesus knows the battle. He fought it all the way to the end. And he defeated the monster every time.” John Piper
GOD’S PROMISE . . .
The diligent work of prayer is never wasted. (Revelation 8:1-5)
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1 Corinthians 12:12-31 (ESV)
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Luke 22:24-26 (ESV)
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The Gift of Administration leads the church to be a people of order while reminding the church of the God of order.
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2 Timothy 2:4 (ESV)
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1 Corinthians 14:33 (ESV)
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Psalm 19:1 (ESV)
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Romans 11:36 (ESV)
Works Cited/Further Reading:
- ESV Study Bible
- The MacArthur Study Bible (NASB)
- “The Spiritual Gift You Don’t Notice Until It’s Gone” by Trent Hunter
- “Science Increasingly Makes the Case for God” by Eric Metaxas
- Hidden Christmas by Tim Keller
- Spurgeon on Leadership by Larry J. Michael
- Come and See by Todd Wagner
SPIRITUAL GIFTS: PROPHECY
1 Corinthians 14:1-33, 39
YOU MAY HAVE THE GIFT OF PROPHECY IF . . .
You have a desire to serve God, empowered by His Spirit, to boldly and fearlessly proclaim God’s truth.
You have a sense of discernment and a desire to make people aware of sin in their lives, so they will repent.
You have the ability to easily spot what is wrong and often have to look to find something right.
You have a strong burden over the brokenness of people that compels you to pray for and weep over them.
You have a strong sense for justice and will speak out publicly regarding injustice or wrongdoing.
You have a strong urge to speak up for what is right, regardless of criticism.
The gift of prophecy is not the gift of adding to the authoritative, inspired, inerrant and infallible word of God. Rather it is speaking truth consistent with the word of God, influenced by the Spirit of God, for the building up of the people of God.
“On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation . . . the one who prophesies builds up the church.” 1 Corinthians 14:3, 4b
BUILD UP THE BODY . . .
Seek to build up the church by speaking the truth of God’s word with much love and grace.
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Colossians 4:2-6
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29
For helping others mature in their faith. (Ephesians 4:11-13)
For encouraging others practically. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
For speaking peace into their pain.
Allow the Spirit of God and the word of God to affirm what you sense needs to be spoken in the name of God.
“No prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:21
Will what is spoken graciously point people to sin that needs to be confessed?
Will what is spoken call people to repentance of sin?
Will what is spoken lead people to authentic worship?
DON’T DESPISE PROPHECIES . . .
“Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22
Test what you hear over and against the truth of Scripture. (spiritual discernment)
“ . . . but test everything;” (does it conform to the teaching of Scripture?)
Embrace what is consistent with Scripture, God glorifying, and good for your building up.
Reject what is not biblically sound.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS: SERVING
1 Peter 4:10- 11; Romans 12:7
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11
THE GIFT OF SERVING . . .
- You have a strong desire to be involved.
- You see and meet needs in a practical way.
- You often have difficulty saying “No” to opportunities.
- You typically like to be around other people.
- You may often underestimate your value to the ministry or people you serve.
THE GRACE AND GLORY OF GOD IN SERVING . . .
We steward God’s grace well when we serve one another through the gifts we have been entrusted.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
We serve not out of human capacity and ability, but in the strength God gives by His Spirit.
“whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies . . .” 1 Peter 4:11a
We serve to make much of Jesus, not to make much of ourselves.
- Serving others is marked by humility.
“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2:5-7
- Serving is others-focused.
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
- Serving exalts Jesus.
“ . . . in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:11b
HOW THE ENEMY CAN DISTORT AND ATTACK YOUR GIFT . . .
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You can overextend yourself to the point of burnout or exhaustion.
- You could limit your effectiveness in all God wants you to do by saying “Yes” to the lesser things.
- You could miss out on what you should be doing and keeping others from doing what they should be doing.
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An eagerness to serve can be used by the enemy to run ahead of God.
MAKING IT PRACTICAL . . .
- Where will I serve?
SPIRITUAL GIFTS: TEACHING
Ephesians 4:11; Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
The spiritual gift of teaching is a gift given and empowered by the Spirit for the purpose of teaching truth with accuracy and in a way that others gain understanding.
YOU MIGHT HAVE THE GIFT OF TEACHING IF . . .
You have a strong desire, accompanied by a capable ability, to teach Scripture.
“ . . . and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” 2 Timothy 2:2
Knowledgeable of Scripture
Engaging
“And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.” Matthew 7:28-29
Creative
Contextual
“And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? For you bring some strange things to our ears. We wish to know therefore what these things mean.” Acts 17:19-20
You are concerned about teaching the truth with accuracy.
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
“He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” Titus 1:9
“Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:16
“But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.” Titus 2:1
You are driven by a passion to study and research diligently so as to be prepared.
“Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” Luke 1:1-4
You desire to help others gain clarity and understanding about what is being taught.
“And he was teaching them many things in parables . . .” Mark 4:2
THE NECESSITY OF TEACHING TRUTH . . .
There is a need for teaching the truth of Scripture in a post-truth world.
Teaching the truth and authority of Scripture is like pointing to an anchor that can be tethered to in the midst of a drifting culture.
“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4
“Rest assured that the most fervid revivalism will wear itself out in mere smoke, if it be not maintained by the fuel of teaching.... Sound teaching is the best protection for the heresies which ravage right and left among us.”—Charles Spurgeon
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING TAUGHT TRUTH . . .
“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching . . .” Acts 2:42
To equip you to build up the body of Christ.
“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ . . .” Ephesians 4:11-13
To be able to discern what is true from what is false.
“ . . . so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes” Ephesians 4:14
“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8
To grow in grace and the knowledge of Christ.
“ . . . Here are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:16b-18
Romans 12:1-8 (ESV)
How the Gift of Mercy edifies the body of Christ:
- It reminds the body of God’s mercy.
Romans 12:1 (ESV)
Exodus 34:6 (ESV)
“God's mercy is so great that you may sooner drain the sea of its water, or deprive the sun of its light, or make space too narrow, than diminish the great mercy of God.” - Charles Spurgeon
“There is more mercy in Christ, than sin in us.” - Richard Sibbes
Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)
- It makes the body more merciful as a whole.
Romans 12:4-5 (ESV)
Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)
- It mercifully meets the needs of those inside & outside the body.
"... the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness." Romans 12:8
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Potential Pitfalls:
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Thinking others don’t love God or people as much as you.
- Thinking you must bear all of the weight on yourself.
YOU MIGHT BE A SHEPHERD IF . . .
- You are a leader, not a follower.
- You are people-focused.
- You are good at creating and cultivating healthy relational
- You have a strong protective
- You have a genuine desire to help
- You are more of a disciple-maker than you realize.
THE GIFT OF SHEPHERDING . . .
- The one who has a shepherding heart is always leading.
- Good shepherds consistently point to the green pastures and quiet waters.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” Psalm 23:2-3a
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Because people are following you, be careful where you lead them.
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Good shepherds lead in the right
“He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” Psalms 23:3b
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
- The one who has a shepherding heart is genuinely caring.
- Shepherds are present, not distant.
“I am the good shepherd. I know My own and My own know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay My life down for the sheep.” John 10:14-15
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Shepherds step into moments of pain, rather than run from them.
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The one who has a shepherding heart is protective.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
- Shepherds create a culture of security.
- Shepherds guard against dangerous influences.
- Shepherds seek out those who are drifting and lost.
- Shepherds willingly make sacrifices for those in their care.
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” John 10:11
HOW THE ENEMY CAN DISTORT OR ATTACK YOUR GIFT . . .
- You will be tempted by pride when you see people follow.
- You will be tempted to not deal with difficult issues for fear of hurting others.
“Faithful are the wounds of a friend;profuse are the kisses of an enemy.” Proverbs 27:6
- You are susceptible to developing a “Savior”
- You will be tempted to be jealous of other shepherds.
- You will be tempted to lead alone and do it all.
A WORD TO THE SHEEP . . .
- Be careful who you follow.
“The thief comes to steal and kill and destroy . . . He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.” John 10:10a, 12-13
SPIRITUAL GIFTS: EXHORTATION
Romans 12:6-8; 1 Timothy 4:13-14a
THE GIFT OF EXHORTATION . . .
The gift of exhortation is speaking encouragement or correction, that is intentional and directional, into the lives of others.
- It is purposeful, not superficial or empty; it points people to something better and to become better.
- It is putting handles on the truth so that others know what to do and how to do it.
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It is most effective when there is credibility.
- When you’re speaking into someone’s life what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear, credibility is essential.
- Rebuke or correction is received more willingly when it is humbly spoken in love and coated with credibility.
- When you’re speaking into someone’s life what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear, credibility is essential.
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It always points people to Jesus Christ.
YOU MIGHT HAVE THE GIFT . . .
- You are someone who people tend to listen to when you speak.
- You are practical in application.
- You are engaged in the lives people; one-on-one or in larger groups.
- You are an encourager by nature, even with those who others may find hard to encourage.
- You want to help people mature in their faith spiritually.
“Him (Jesus Christ), warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” Colossians 1:28
“ . . . to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ . . .” Ephesians 4:12-15
HOW THE ENEMY CAN DISTORT OR ATTACK YOUR GIFT . . .
- He can deceive you into believing that your abilities are enough.
“If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5b
- He can deceive you into thinking that people are projects for you to work on.
- He can tempt you to elevate self over Christ.
- He can discourage you when you don’t see immediate
- Discouragement can lead to disillusionment which can lead to disengagement.
ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE EXHORTER . . .
- Remember that who you are and what you do matters.
- Daily let God encourage you as you intentionally spend time in His presence.
- Give permission to godly people you trust to speak into your life.
- The one who is gifted in exhortation, needs to practice the humility of receiving exhortation.
“Finally, then, brothers and sisters, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2
MAKING IT PRACTICAL . . .
SPIRITUAL GIFTS: EVANGELISM
Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13
Categories of Gifts . . .
- Miraculous gifts
- Enabling gifts
- Team gifts
Gifts without Love . . .
A deep love for Christ is the source for you to genuinely love others, expressed most visibly and tangibly through how God has gifted you.
- Your gifts become useless and ineffective if they are devoid of love.
“If I speak in the tongues of men and angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mystery and knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
“By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35
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In other words, people will know you’re a follower of Jesus by how you love them well, not by your gifts.
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You love people best through how you are gifted most.
The Gift of Evangelism . . .
- Those who seek out opportunities to share the gospel.
- Those who are passionate about sharing the gospel.
- Those who typically have a more outgoing personality and are not fearful of engaging
How the enemy can distort or attack your gift . . .
- The temptation to focus on salvations like trophies on your shelf.
- The feeling of discouragement that may come from not seeing people surrender to Christ.
- Discouragement can lead to disillusionment which can lead to disengagement.
- Using your gift in a way that is motivated by pride, not love.
- Evangelism without love reflects arrogant self-righteousness not gracious humility.
Not Excused . . .
A follower of Jesus you are not excused from telling people about Him because you do not have the “gift” of evangelism.
- You may not be as gifted in evangelism, but you are without a doubt called to lead people to be reconciled to Jesus.
“All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to Himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
“For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach good news! . . . So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Romans 10:13-15, 17
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The ministry of reconciliation is being aware of, and taking, opportunities to share the hope of the gospel.
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The ministry of reconciliation is inviting people to “come and see.”
“Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found Him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.’ Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’” John 1:45-46
#DADLIFE
Mark 6:30-44
DAD AS A SHEPHERD . . .
“And He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd.” (v. 34)
- You are like Jesus when you show compassion to those whom God has given you to shepherd.
“And He began to teach them many things.” (v. 34b)
- The greatest need your child has, above all else, is to know the truth about Jesus.
“You give them something to eat.” (v. 35-37)
- Your children need to feast from your table, not the world’s table.
“How many loaves do you have?” (v. 38-44)
- As a father you will fear that what you have isn’t enough, but God’s grace and provision is more than sufficient.
SHEPHERD WELL . . .
The role of a shepherd is to love, lead, provide, and protect the sheep in their care. (Psalm 23; John 10)
You will love your children best when they see the love of Christ in you.
“We love because God first loved us . . .” 1 John 4:19
You will lead your children best when they see the leading of Christ in you.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart . . .” Proverbs 3:5-6
You will provide for your children best when they see the provision of Christ in you.
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
You will protect your children well when they see the protection of Christ in you.
“Guard your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Proverbs 4:23
WHAT ARE SPIRITUAL GIFTS?
Abilities given by the Spirit of God by grace through which He works for the common good of the body of Christ, for the glory of God.
“A spiritual gift is an ability given by the Holy Spirit to express our faith effectively (in word or deed) for the strengthening of someone else’s faith.” John Piper
“For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” Romans 1:11-12
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT SPIRITUAL GIFTS?
For believers, each has a spiritual gift or gifts.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” 1 Peter 4:10
You are far more gifted than you realize, but never gifted enough in your own strength.
Each gift is apportioned by God as He wills.
“All these (gifts) are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills.” 1 Corinthians 12:11
Each spiritual gift is given by God for the common good of body of Christ and unbelievers.
“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:7
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Because it is worship that God takes pleasure in.
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Romans 12:1
Because in serving with your gift(s), it is a means through which God distributes His grace to others.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” 1 Peter 4:10
Because it is the means through which God changes the world.
THE ROLE YOU PLAY IN GOD’S STORY
1 Corinthians 12:1-11; Romans 12:1-8; 1 Peter 4:10-11
WHAT IS MY S.H.A.P.E.?
- Spiritual Gifts—What gifts has God graciously given you to use for His glory and to change the world? (take the assessment)
- Heart—What are the passions that resonate in your heart?
- Abilities—What are your abilities that seem to come naturally to you?
- Personality—What is the personality God has given you?
- Experiences—What are the experiences that have shaped your life?
Prodigal Pt. 2 - The Elder Brother (Luke 15:11-32)
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Luke 15:11-32 (ESV)
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Religious self-righteousness is even more dangerous than rebellious unrighteousness.
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1. Because it gives us an inflated view of self.
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Luke 15:29 (ESV)
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“A cold, self-righteous prig who goes regularly to church may be far nearer to hell than a prostitute.” - C.S. Lewis
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2. Because it gives us a deflated view of self.
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Luke 15:30 (ESV)
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Jesus said to [the religious leaders], “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you.” - Matthew 21:31b
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3. Because it gives us a conflated view of God.
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“You contribute nothing to your salvation except the sin that made it necessary.” - Jonathan Edwards
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“We will never stop being younger brothers or elder brothers until we acknowledge our need, rest by faith, and gaze in wonder at the work of our true elder brother, Jesus Christ.” - Tim Keller, The Prodigal God
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“The same sun which melts wax hardens clay. And the same Gospel which melts some persons to repentance hardens others in their sins." - Charles Spurgeon
Works Cited/Further Reading
- The Prodigal God by Tim Keller
- A Tale of Two Sons by John MacArthur
- One Way Love by Tullian Tchividjian
- New Morning Mercies by Paul Tripp
- The ESV Study Bible
BE SELFISH TO BE SELFLESS . . .
- Be selfish with the time that allows you to selflessly care well for those you love most.
“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
CARING FOR YOUR HEART . . .
- Daily get away with God.
“Then Jesus said, ‘Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.’ He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.” Mark 6:31
“ . . . in Your presence is fullness of joy.” Psalm 16:11b
“Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)
- Be intentional about carving out time to be renewed physically, emotionally, and mentally.
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light and momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
- Guard against the enemy’s ambush.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
- The comparison
- Unrealistic
- The tyranny of saying “yes” to what you should be saying “no” to.
- Be intentional about what you invest your time and energy
- Be discerning of what will drain and derail
THE TAKEAWAY . . .
- The health of your heart will set the pace for the health of your home.
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well . . . But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.” 2 Timothy 1:5, 3:14-15
Prodigal Pt. 1 - The Younger Brother
• Luke 15:1-24 (ESV)
• God extends recklessly extravagant grace toward recklessly rebellious sinners.
• 1. The Recklessness of Sin
• Luke 15:11-12 (ESV)
• “Sin doesn’t always look sinful to us; sometimes it looks beautiful. That’s why we need grace to see sin for what it really is - dark, dangerous, enslaving, and destructive.” - Paul Tripp
• 2. The Recklessness of Grace
• “The word ‘prodigal’ does not mean ‘wayward’ but, according to Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, ‘recklessly spendthrift.’ It means to spend until you have nothing left. This term is therefore as appropriate for describing the father in the story as his younger son. The father’s welcome to the repentant son was literally reckless, because he refused to ‘reckon’ or count his sin against him or demand repayment.” - Tim Keller in The Prodigal God
• Luke 15:10 (ESV)
• “Good news! God never tires of you coming to him in desperation. He’s never annoyed with your weakness. He’s never put out by your neediness.” - Kimm Crandall
• “When Satan tells me I am a sinner he comforts me immeasurably, since Christ died for sinners.” - Martin Luther
Acts: Obstacles and Opportunities
Acts 27-28
WHEN IN ROME . . .
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Don’t let obstacles discourage you from sharing your faith story.
- God has a way of taking obstacles and turning them into opportunities.
- Make the most of every opportunity.
- God has a way of taking obstacles and turning them into opportunities.
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Be intentional about sharing your faith story.
“After three days, he (Paul) called together the local leaders of the Jews . . . For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” Acts 28:17a, 20
- Who will you invite to hear your story?
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What hope will you give them?
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Pray that all who hear your faith story, and see your life, will respond in obedience to the gospel.
“ . . . lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.” Acts 28:27b
- That they will hear the gospel.
- That they will see the gospel.
- That they will understand the gospel.
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That they will turn to Christ and be saved.
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Tell your faith story courageously and freely.
“ . . . proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.” Acts 28:31
Acts: A Story Worth Sharing
KNOW YOUR STORY . . .
“Jesus is not swept into your story. You are swept into His.” (Michael Horton, Core Christianity: Finding Yourself in God’s Story
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Know your story so you can share your story. (Acts 22:1-21; 24:10-21; 26:4-29)
- The conflict of your soul.
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The climax of the gospel and crisis of belief.
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The need for resolution.
- A heart set free and at peace with God.
- A future that is secure and eternal.
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Take advantage of opportunities to share your story.
“Paul replied, ‘I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no obscure city. I beg you, permit me to speak to the people.’” Acts 21:39
- People who are seeking and asking questions.
- People who are facing difficulties in life.
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Moments that are obvious divine appointments.
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Allow God to use your story to point people to the resolve their heart desperately needs and desires.
“ . . . to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.” Acts 26:18
WHAT’S YOUR STORY? . . .
- Is the story of your life one that is still in conflict?
- Has your story found resolve in the saving grace of Jesus Christ?
To understand the spiritual battle, we need to begin with acknowledging that we are in a war. Battles make up smaller components of the bigger picture. By definition, battles involve combat between two persons, between factions, between armies and they consist of any type of "extended contest, struggle, or controversy" (Webster-Merriam).
As Christians, we are in a spiritual battle of some sort on a daily basis. In warfare, battles are fought on different fronts, for different reasons, and with varying degrees of intensity. The same is true in spiritual warfare. Our spiritual battles and warfare are real, even though we cannot physically see the attacker. But, we can educate ourselves on how the battles are fought and how they impact our lives on a daily basis.
(From: Spiritual Warfare Bible Study)
https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/spiritual-warfare-lesson-1-understanding-the-battle-11554631.html
Jesus’s resurrection means that there is a way for you to be made right with God.
“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile, and you are still in your sins.” 1 Corinthians 15:17
“More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” Romans 5:11
- Why do I need to be made right with God?
- Because your sins have made you an enemy with God.
“For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by His life.” Romans 5:10
“And you, who were once alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him . . .” Colossians 1:21-22
- Because only Jesus can give you peace with God.
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1
Jesus’s resurrection means that He has made a way for you to be alive to God in Christ Jesus.
- Why do I need to be made alive to God in Christ Jesus?
- Because your sins have caused you to be dead to God.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
“For the wages of sin is death . . .” Romans 6:23a
- Because what your dead heart needs most is spiritual life.
- The greatest need of one who is dead is resurrection.
Jesus’s resurrection means that He has made a way for you to have living hope.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3-5
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13
Palm Sunday Bible Verses Luke 19:41-42 -"As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it, and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace--but now it is hidden from your eyes."
Zechariah 9:9 - Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
John 12:12-19 - The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! ” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”“Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”
Luke 19:30-38 - “Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it.’ ” Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?” They replied, “The Lord needs it.” They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!”“Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
THOUGHTS FOR YOUR JOURNEY . . .
On this journey, there will be moments of contention.
- Don’t let moments of contention hijack the mission.
- Relational challenges are never a valid reason for missional drift.
On this journey, there will be moments when God redirects you.
“The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” Proverbs 16:9
- God is strategic in all He does.
- The unexpected is often God working undercover.
- The better question to ask is not “Why?” but “What?” God show me what you are up to?
- The temptation is often to complain about what we don’t get to do, rather than allowing the Spirit to stir within us a spiritual curiosity as to what God is inviting us to.
- The unexpected is often God working undercover.
On this journey, there will be opportunities to have gospel conversations.
- Some will receive
“One who heard us was a woman named Lydia from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.” Acts 16:14
“Then he (the jailer) brought them out and said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’” Acts 16:30
“And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a many of the devout Greeks and not a few of the leading women.” Acts 17:4
“And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, ‘May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? For you bring some strange things to our ears. We wish to know therefore what these things mean.’” Acts 17:19-20
- Some will reject
“Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, ‘We will hear you again about this.’” Acts 17:32
- Some will be hostile to it.
“But the Jews were jealous, and taking some wicked men of the rabble, they formed a mob, set the city in an uproar, and attacked the house of Jason, seeing to bring them out to the crowd.” Acts 17:5
On this journey, there will be moments you will want to give in to fear and give up.
“And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, ‘Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people.’ And he stayed there a year and six months teaching the word of God among them.” Acts 18:9-11
YOUR LIFE MISSIONARY JOURNEY MATTERS . . .
- Because people
- Because gospel conversations bring clarity to confusion.
- Because a wrong side up world needs to be turned upside down.
“These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also . . . and they are acting against the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus.” Acts 17:6b-7
Acts: Your Mission Journey
Acts 13-15:35
ON MISSION . . .
- We have been set apart by the Spirit of God to make much of the gospel.
“you will be My witnesses.” Acts 1:8
- Some are called vocationally.
“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” Acts 13:2
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All are called relationally.
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We are sent out by His Spirit to engage those in need of the gospel.
- The gospel of Christ is for all people.
“If then God gave the same gift (the Holy Spirit) to them as He gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?” Acts 11:17
- There will always be opposition to the activity of the Spirit.
“But Elymas the magician opposed them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith.” Acts 13:8
“But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him.” Acts 13:45
“But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.” Acts 14:2
- We are to proclaim the gospel by the power of His Spirit.
“ . . . they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews.” Acts 13:5
“And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region.” Acts 13:49
“ . . . and there they continued to preach the gospel.” Acts 14:7
“When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples . . .” Acts 14:21
- The gospel is one of grace received by faith in Christ alone.
“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.” Ephesians 2:8-9
THE TAKEAWAY . . .
- Your life is your missionary journey.
- Every day you awake, God’s mission awaits you.
1 Corinthians 7:1-9 “Now concerning the matters about which you wrote: “It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.” 2 But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband. 3 The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. 4 For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. 5 Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
6 Now as a concession, not a command, I say this. 7 I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.
8 To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am. 9 But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.”
Singleness is a gift.
“...But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.” - 1 Corinthians 7:7b
“Remember this: Had any other condition been better for you than the one in which you are, divine love would have put you there.” - Charles Spurgeon
1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - ”I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. 33 But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife, 34 and his interests are divided. And the unmarried or betrothed woman is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to be holy in body and spirit. But the married woman is anxious about worldly things, how to please her husband. 35 I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.”
“I am not single because I am too spiritually unstable to possibly deserve a husband, nor because I am too spiritually mature to possibly need one. I am single because God is so abundantly good to me, because this is his best for me. It is a cosmic impossibility that anything could be better for me right now than being single… because no good thing will God withhold from me.” - Paige Brown, “Singled Out for Good”
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” - Psalm 23:1
Singleness is a trial.
1 Corinthians 7:2 - “But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.”
1 Corinthians 7:8-9 - “To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am. 9 But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.”
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” - Psalm 37:4
“Theology can conquer biology.” - John Piper
“The key to contentment as a single person isn’t being content in singleness; it’s being content in Christ, as a single person.” - Sam Allberry
“The most beautiful thing, in fact, is when single Christians acknowledge their longing for a spouse—and yet testify to the sufficiency of Jesus in the midst of the struggle. The world has a category for a single who acts like marriage isn’t a big deal. But what it doesn’t have a category for—what the world can neither understand nor explain—is a single who longs for marriage while declaring, “His grace is sufficient for me” (2 Cor. 12:9).” - Matt Smethurst
Acts:
Acts 12:1-25
God opposes and humbles the proud.
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:11
Satan who sought to exalt himself over God was cast down from heaven.
He has always sought to destroy the redemptive work of God. And yet he has failed.
When the enemy seems to win a few battles, we need to remember that God has won the war.
The “Herods” of the day.
Herod the Great, order for all male children 2 years of age and younger to be killed in Bethlehem and the surrounding region, so as to kill this Christ who would threaten his rule.
We must remember that the enemy may bruise the heel, but our Wounded Victor has crushed the enemy. (Genesis 3:15)
Herod (Agrippa I) who sought to exalt himself was taken out by God.
Killing James and imprisoning Peter (Acts 12:2-3)
“Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.” Acts 12:23
We are often more concerned about pleasing people than we are pleasing God, and that is self-exaltation.
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10
Implication: Surrender is the only way you’ll find victory.
God hears the prayers of His people.
- The consistent practice of the New Testament church was that of fervent prayer.
“So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.” Acts 12:5
“ . . . where many were gathered together and praying.” Acts 12:12b
Prayer should be the Spirit led discipline of our life so that when the enemy attacks, our first response should be unceasing, intense, and persevering prayer.
We do not give in because the enemy is too strong, but because our praying is too weak.
God always advances His gospel.
“But the word of God increased and multiplied.” Acts 12:24
Tertullian, the Christian defender of the faith who died in 225, said to his enemies, "We multiply whenever we are mown down by you; the blood of Christians is [the] seed [of the church]." (Apololgeticus 50). And Jerome said about 100 years later, "The church of Christ has been founded by shedding its own blood, not that of others; by enduring outrage, not by inflicting it. Persecutions have made it grow; martyrdoms have crowned it" (Letter 82).
1. A Wider Understanding of the Total Reach of the Gospel.
...God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. - Acts 10:28b
“Be not proud of race, face, place, or grace.” - C.H. Spurgeon
After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” - Revelation 7:9-10
2. A Deeper Understanding of the Old Testament in Light of the Gospel.
Thus he [Jesus] declared all foods clean. - Mark 7:19
The Moral Law / The Judicial Law / The Ceremonial Law
"In short, the coming of Christ changed how we worship, but not how we live.” - Tim Keller
“If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?” When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.” - Acts 11:17-18
3. A Higher Understanding of God’s Glory as Proclaimed in the Gospel.
“There is no scriptural basis for segregation. The ground at the foot of the cross is level, and it touches my heart when I see whites standing shoulder to shoulder with blacks at the cross.” - Billy Graham
“To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” - Acts 10:43
The Hope of Healing . . .
For believers in Christ, we experience healing either in this life, or ultimate healing in the life to come.
- Healing always is in the name of Jesus Christ.
“Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you . . .” Acts 9:34
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Healing never happens apart from His name. (Acts 4:9-10, 30)
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Healing always points people to and exalts the risen Christ.
- Healing never happens for physical healing only.
- Our perspective should be:
“God, if You choose to exalt Jesus in my healing, please heal me. But if You are more highly exalted in my illness or my death, then Your will be done for Your glory and my good.”
- Healing in scripture is often a way in which God draws unbelievers to Himself and advances His kingdom.
“And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.” Acts 9:35
“And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.” Acts 9:42
So What?
- Hold on to the promises of God.
“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26
“And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged Him, ‘Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.’ And Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him saying, ‘I will; be clean.’ And immediately the leprosy left him.” Luke 5:12-13
“Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this (Paul’s thorn in the flesh), that it should leave me. But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
“For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling, if indeed by putting it on we may not be found naked. For while we are still in this tent, we groan, being burdened—not that we would be unclothed, but that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.” 2 Corinthians 5:1-4
- Trust in the sovereignty of God.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die;” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2a
“ . . . while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to His will.” Hebrews 2:4
GOSPEL HOPE . . .
- There is no one so far from the reach of God that they cannot be rescued by God.
“Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or His ear dull, that it cannot hear.” Isaiah 59:1
RELENTLESS PURSUIT . . .
- Even in our rebellion, God relentlessly pursues
- As relentless as Saul was in pursuing and persecuting Christians with legalistic zeal, Jesus was even more relentlessly pursuing Saul in sovereign grace.
“But when He who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son to me in order that I might preach Him among the Gentiles . . .” Galatians 1:15-16
“ . . . Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display His perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in Him for eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:15-16
- In our running from God, we will eventually find ourselves running into God. (Jonah; Adam and Eve)
“Where shall I go from Your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from Your presence?” Psalm 139:7
“For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; for it is written, ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.’ So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.” Romans 14:10-12
OBEDIENCE OVER FEAR . . .
- If we are going to join God where He is at work, our obedience to God must be greater than our fears.
GOSPEL TRANSFORMATION . . .
- Gospel transformation always leads to gospel proclamation.
“And immediately he (Saul) proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’”
- Gospel proclamation always leads to gospel multiplication.
“So he (Saul) went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord . . . So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.” Acts 9:28, 31
GOD AT WORK . . .
- God is always at work.
- He is an active God because He is a redemptive God
- He is often at work in ways I cannot see.
- He is often at work in places I do not expect.
- He is an active God because He is a redemptive God
GOD’S INVITATION . . .
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God invites me to join Him where He is at work. (Acts 8:26-29)
- God saves me so that I might join Him in His redemptive
- Not to help Him in His redemptive work; He doesn’t need my help.
- Not to do His redemptive work; I can’t redeem anyone.
- But to join Him in His redemptive work; I’m an instrument in His hands.
- God saves me so that I might join Him in His redemptive
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God will not invite me to join Him where He is not already at work.
- Because He is the One who does the work.
- Because what God calls us to join Him in won’t be wasted.
- Because if God is already at work, then He has already gone before me and I have nothing to fear.
MY RESPONSE TO GOD’S INVITATION . . .
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Be sensitive to God’s promptings. (Acts 8:26, 29) Paul to Macedonia
- A life fully surrendered to the Spirit is a life that is filled with the Spirit.
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Be quick to obey. (Acts 8:26-27, 30)
- Delayed obedience is disobedience.
SOMETHING BIG . . .
- When God extends an invitation to me it is because He is up to something eternally significant.
- He is up to something big in me.
- He is up to something big in those to whom He sends
THE TAKEAWAY . . .
If you want to change the world, join God where He’s at work.
Acts: Beyond the Comfort Zone
Acts 8:3-25
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The gospel is advanced in the midst of persecution, not destroyed by persecution.
- Persecution has never, and will never, eliminate the gospel; it only elevates, illuminates, and advances the gospel.
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We need to view persecution as an opportunity for God to advance the gospel in us and through us.
- Often God will use difficulties to take us places we would never go otherwise.
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The gospel is inclusive in its reach, yet exclusive in its demand.
- It is a gospel that is inclusive, in that it is for all people everywhere.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14
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It is a gospel that demands complete surrender to Christ alone as the hope for our salvation. (Luke 9:23-26)
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The gospel points us to the depravity of our sin and our need for a Savior, not a “what’s-in-it-for-me” mentality.
- One who sees the wretchedness of his heart recognizes he is in no position to negotiate or make demands when it comes to salvation.
“Merry Christmas: The Peace of Advent”
Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:14; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 15:13; Colossians 3:15
Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:6-7
Peace with God . . .
- You can have peace with God only by being reconciled to Him through Christ.
“ . . . and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:14
“And without faith it is impossible to please Him (God) . . .” Hebrews 11:6
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13
“All this is from God who through Christ reconciled us to Himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
“For in Him (Jesus) all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of the cross.” Colossians 1:19-20
“Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.” St. Augustine
“God can work peace through us only if He has worked peace in us. Those who are in the best of circumstances but without God can never find peace, but those in the worst of circumstances but with God need never lack peace.” John MacArthur
- The peace of God is not alive in a heart that is dead to God.
“There is no peace,” says the Lord God, “for the wicked.” Isaiah 48:22
- The peace of God does not rest where sin reigns. (Psalm 32:1-5)
Peace of Mind . . .
- You can have peace of mind by resting in the peace of God.
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3;
- The peace of God is found in the presence of God.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Peace with Others . . .
- You can pursue peace with others when the peace of Christ rules in your heart.
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body.” Colossians 3:15
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 12:18
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Cor. 13:11
“Strive for peace with everyone . . .” Hebrews 12:14
“And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” James 3:18
The Joy of Advent . . .
“To be rescued from sin’s death grip brings ecstatic joy. Only when a person recognizes and understands his hopeless spiritual condition apart from Christ, can he fully know the joy that comes with such a great rescue.”
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The advent of Christ gives great joy to a heart in need of rescue. That’s why the angel said to the shepherds, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
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Jesus is the source of great joy.
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11
- He is the source of joy that is deeper than our greatest sorrows.
“ . . . as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.” 2 Corinthians 6:10
“for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.” 2 Corinthians 8:2
“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him. Though you do not see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.” 1 Peter 1:8
- He is the source of joy that is better than all the world can give.
“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11
- The joy of Christ is poured out in us by His Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control . . . “ Galatians 5:22-23
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Refuse to trade inexpressible joy for interim moments of fleeting joy.
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The joy of Christ is sustained in His presence.
“Merry Christmas: The Hope of Advent”
Isaiah 8:14; Isaiah 8:16-9:7
The Need for Hope . . .
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Hope is essential for the human
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Our hope rests in the advent of Christ.
“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you as sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Isaiah 8:14
“I will wait for the Lord, who is hiding His face from the house of Jacob, and I will hope in Him.” Isaiah 8:17
“Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. 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. Therefore He shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of His brothers shall return to the people of Israel. And He shall stand and shepherd His flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord His God. And they shall dwell secure, for now He shall be great to the ends of the earth. And He shall be their peace.” Micah 5:2-5
Hope Has Come . . .
- The advent of His birth gives us hope that God is with
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, (which means, God with us).” Matthew 1:23
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about Him, and cried out, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because He was before me.’”) For from His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, He has made Him known.” John 1:14-18
- The advent of His Spirit gives us hope that Christ is in
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13
“To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27
- The advent of His return gives us hope that He will come for us.
“And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also.” John 14:3
“Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:28
“ . . . waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,” Titus 2:13
The Joy of Our Hope . . .
- Where there is hope, there is indescribable and abundant joy.
“You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest . . .” Isaiah 9:3
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
Acts: Witness
Acts 6:8:-8:3
Stephen’s life gave evidence that he was a true follower of Jesus Christ.
“ . . . a man full of faith, and of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 6:5
“And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.” Acts 6:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Stephen was prepared when his faith in Christ was challenged.
The strength of your witness in difficult moments will only be as strong as the witness of your life in daily moments.
Stephen was willing to lay down his life for the sake of the gospel.
- Because the hope of the gospel is better than life itself. (Phil. 1:21)
- If you’re not living for the gospel today, what makes you believe you will die for the gospel tomorrow?
- The resolve of a witness is as deep as his/her view is of the hope and reward of the gospel.
Acts 6:1-7
The mission of the church is strengthened when spiritual leaders stay focused on advancing the gospel.
“It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables . . . But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:2, 4
The health of the church is strengthened when ministry is delegated to those who use their gifts and abilities.
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-7
“And He (Christ) gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ . . .” Ephesians 4:11-13
- In what ways am I using my gifts and abilities to minister to the needs of others?
The influence of the church is magnified when the gospel is advanced in a spirit of unity.
“And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.” Acts 6:7
The Takeaway . . .
“What do I need to be doing that serves others so that the gospel can advance, and a difference can be made?”
Pastor Rob reminds us during this brief study of the Lord’s Supper of the depth of meaning it contains. It was during the age-old celebration of the Passover on the eve of His death that Jesus instituted a significant new fellowship meal that we observe to this day. It is an integral part of Christian worship. Taking the Lord's Supper reminds us to remember our Lord’s death and resurrection and to look for His glorious return in the future.
Acts 5:12-42
“Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason (for I do not trust either in the pope or in councils alone, since it is well known that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything, since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. Here I stand; I can do no other, so help me God. Amen.” - Martin Luther
Knowing this movement is unstoppable... 1. Gives us confidence to trust in the sovereignty of God.
“The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem...” - Acts 5:16
“God disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in Jesus.” - Colossians 2:15
“... if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” - Acts 5:38-39
“...I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” - Matthew 16:17
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains — where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” - Psalm 121:1-2
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” - Psalm 20:7
Knowing this movement is unstoppable... 2. Gives us courage to suffer for the glory of God.
“His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.” - Acts 5:40-41
“Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
Knowing this movement is unstoppable... 3. Gives us cause to set our eyes on the Son of God.
“We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” - Acts 5:32
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12
“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of theLord
as the waters cover the sea.” - Habakkuk 2:14
“You need not fear, even though mountains fall into the sea . . . God doesn’t have problems, only plans. There is never any panic in heaven. God is faithful, his plans do not fail.” - Corrie ten Boom
Sermon: Biblical Community (Acts 4:32-5:16)
- Acts 4:32-5:16
- Four Characteristics of Biblical Community: 1. Gospel Centrality
- Galatians 3:28
- Four Characteristics of Biblical Community: 2. Heartfelt Generosity
- 2 Corinthians 9:7
- Four Characteristics of Biblical Community: 3. Humble Authenticity
- 1 John 1:6-10
- Four Characteristics of Biblical Community: 4. Missional Capacity
- “Our relationship with each other is the criterion the world uses to judge whether our message is truthful. Christian community is the ultimate apologetic.” - Francis Schaeffer
- John 13:35
- “Satan always hates Christian fellowship; it is his policy to keep Christians apart. Anything which can divide saints from one another he delights in. He attaches far more importance to godly [fellowship] than we do. Since union is strength, [Satan] does his best to promote separation.” - Charles Spurgeon
Romans 5:1-5
By faith in Christ we are declared not guilty before God and we are at peace with God Verse 1
By faith we stand in grace Verse 2
Don’t use today’s mercy on tomorrow’s uncertainty
Rejoice! God is at work for His glory Verse 2
Rejoice! God is working in you as you suffer Verse 3
We have been warned to expect suffering John 16:1-4, 33, Romans 8:16-18
The reality of the press is often unbearable Verse 3
Our response is to stand under the press Verse 3
In faith and by grace cling to the promises of God as you stand under the press John 16:33, Romans 8:28, 1 John 1:9, Deuteronomy 31:6, Psalm 118:6
Don’t suffer alone
Christ-like character grows in us as we stand under the press Verse 4 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
God often times works through our suffering not to deliver us from the suffering, but to deliver us into Christ-likeness
Christ-like character results in more hope Verse 4 Romans 8:24-25
Our hope is affirmed by God’s love Verse 5
Continually returning to God in your suffering for strength, hope, comfort and direction will result in a Christ-likeness others will see in us.
1. Because God is the one who has gathered us. (Gospel)
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“For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” - Ephesians 2:18-22
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“The day we find the perfect church, it becomes imperfect the moment we join it.” - Charles Spurgeon
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On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul talked with them… Acts 20:7
2. Because we experience God in a unique way when we’re together. (Community)
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And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit… Acts 4:31a
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“There’s an element of worship and Christianity that cannot be experienced in private worship or by watching worship. There are some graces and blessings that God gives only in ‘meeting together’ with other believers.” - Donald Whitney
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...be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart. Ephesians 5:18-19
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“The fruit of the gathering is not just a strong individual, but a strong church, united in faith. In this sense, the gathering is unique not as an encounter with God...rather it’s unique because it is an encounter with the people of God, filled with the Spirit of God, spurring one another along in the mission of God. Christ in me meets Christ in you.” - Mike Cosper
3. Because it makes our ‘scattering’ more effective. (Mission)
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“And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” - Acts 4:31
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“And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them.” - Acts 4:24
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“ . . . for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, 28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. 29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness.” - Acts 4:27-29
Acts 4:1-31
Key verse 4:13
Observations about uncommon boldness
- Empowers us to share the truth against popular opinion verses 1-2
- Disturbs some and draws others verses 2-4
- Results in us sharing the gospel verses 10-12
- Brings others to see Jesus in us verse 13
- Can silence our accusers verse 14
- Allows us to affirm our faith in Christ when challenged verse 19
- We can be bold and remain blameless verse 21
- Inspires us to give testimony verse 23
- Leads us to worship verses 24-27
- Causes us to ask for more uncommon boldness verses 29-31
The source of uncommon boldness
- Being filled with the Holy Spirit verses 8, 25, 31
How to live a Spirit filled life
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Follow Jesus verse 13
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Knowing scripture verses 11, 25-26
- A life of prayer verses 29-30
- Obedience leads to the right place with God verse 19
- Asking to be filled with the Spirit
Acts 3:1-26
People at the Gate . . .
God invites us to engage a world in need.
- God loves to turn inconvenient moments into divine
- Be sensitive to the Spirit’s prompting.
- You will be sensitive to the Spirit’s prompting when you are daily soaking in His presence.
- Be obedient to what the Spirit is leading you to do.
- Be sensitive to the Spirit’s prompting.
In order to display His power through ordinary lives that have been extraordinarily changed.
“And they were amazed and astonished, saying, ‘Are not all these who are speaking Galileans?’” Acts 2:7
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13
So that the world will be drawn to and pointed to the wonder of Jesus Christ.
“And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him . . . all the people were utterly astounded, ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s.” Acts 3:10-11
- Jesus is the servant of God.
- Jesus is the Holy and Righteous
- Jesus is the Author of Life.
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Jesus is the One who God raised from the dead.
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Only Jesus can save us, therefore . . .
“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.” Acts 4:12
- Repent (so that . . .)
- You receive forgiveness of sin.
- You will be refreshed.
- You will find hope in His return.
“Acts: Advancing the Gospel”
Acts 2:42-47
Devoted . . .
- They were devoted to the apostles teaching.
“And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching . . .” Acts 2:42
- The same Scriptures that Jesus had taught, the apostles were teaching.
“In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach . . . speaking about the kingdom of God.” Acts 1:1, 3
“And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one who had authority, not as their scribes.” Matthew 7:28-29
“And they were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes.” Mark 1:22
- They were devoted to authentic community.
“ [They devoted themselves] . . . and the fellowship . . .” Acts 2:42
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We were created to live in relationship with God and others.
- When you are willing to allow others to get to know the real you, that is when you are able to truly be yourself.
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Authentic community is a result of spiritual unity. (John 17:20-23)
“And all who believed were together and had all things in common.” Acts 2:44
“Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul . . .” Acts 4:32a
- They were devoted to communion (breaking of bread).
“[They devoted themselves] . . . to the breaking of bread . . .” Acts 2:42
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Observing communion was a reminder of the grace of God shown toward them in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin and the hope of salvation.
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They were devoted to praying.
“[They devoted themselves to] . . . the prayers.” Acts 2:42
“Where there is much prayer, there will be much of the Spirit; where there is much of the Spirit, there will be ever-increasing prayer.” — Andrew Murray
- They were devoted to generosity in meeting needs.
“And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need . . . they received their food with glad and generous hearts . . .” Acts 2:45, 46 (seen in Acts 4:32-35 as well)
- Generosity is an overflow of the grace of God at work in you.
Epicenter . . .
- Your influence for the sake of the gospel will never exceed the gospel’s influence in you.
- The depth of the gospel at work in you influences the reach of the gospel through you.
“And awe came upon every soul . . .” Acts 2:43
“And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:47
Acts: Advancing the Gospel
Acts 2:14-41
What Does This Mean? . . .
- God has poured out His Spirit for the sake of advancing the gospel through His Church.
“And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh . . .” Acts 2:17
- God will do something supernatural through signs and wonders on earth and in the heavens.
“And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below . . .” Acts 2:19
- God will draw people, by His Spirit, to be saved.
“And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:21
“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing His riches on all who call on Him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 3:10:12-13
Who Is This Lord? . . .
- Jesus was the one sent by God.
“Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves know . . .” Acts 2:22
- Jesus was God’s plan for salvation.
“ . . . this Jesus delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. God raised Him up loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for Him to be held by it.” Acts 2:23-24
- Jesus was spoken of by David.
- The Messiah would be resurrected and exalted.
“Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that He would set one of his descendants on his throne, he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of Christ, that He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. This Jesus, God raised up, and of that we are all witnesses.” Acts 2:30-32
“For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand, until I make Your enemies Your footstool.’” Acts 2:34-35
- Jesus is both Lord and Christ.
“Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made Him (Jesus) both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” Acts 2:36
What Do We Do? . . .
- Respond to the conviction of the Spirit of God.
“Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’” Acts 2:37
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Repent of your sins and receive the gift of the Spirit.
- Without repentance of sin there, is no forgiveness of sin.
- Without the Spirit of God, there is no life.
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Become identified with Christ through baptism.
When God Pours Out His Spirit . . .
- When God chooses to pour out His Spirit, it is not on our timetable.
“And suddenly . . .” Acts 2:2
- When God chooses to pour out His Spirit, He does so in a way that is clearly undeniable.
“ . . . there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:2-4
- When God chooses to pour out His Spirit, it is always to advance the gospel.
“we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” Acts 2:11
- When God chooses to pour out His Spirit, people will be astounded with wonder.
“And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. And they were amazed and astonished . . .” Acts 2:6-7
- Some will be captivated. (v.12)
- Some will be critical. (v.13)
Our Response . . .
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Cry out for an outpouring of the Spirit’s manifest
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Do not quench the Spirit.
- Let God examine your heart.
- Is God here?
- Is there something I need to confess/repent of?
- Is there forgiveness I need to seek?
- Am I unwilling to let God tear down the idols in my heart?
- Let God examine your heart.
Acts: Advancing the Gospel
Acts 1:9-26
The Significance of Jesus’ Ascension . . .
Reminds us that He is the exalted Christ who conquered sin and death.
“And being found in human form, He (Jesus) humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore, God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him that name that is above every other name . . .” Philippians 2:8-9
“We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over Him.” Romans 6:9
“This Jesus, God raised up, and of that we are all witnesses.” Acts 2:32
Affirms His authority as reigning King over all creation.
“ . . . Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to Him.” 1 Peter 3:22
“ . . . so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10-11
Points us to the hope of His return as righteous judge and King. (Matthew 25:31-46)
“And while they were gazing into heaven as He went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:10-11
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18
“ . . . but now He (God) commands all people everywhere to repent, because He has fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a man (Jesus) whom He has appointed; and of this He has given assurance to all by raising Him from the dead.” Acts 17:30-31
Points us to the mercy and grace we find as we draw near to Him as our mediator and great high priest.
“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
Advances the hope of the gospel, through His people and by His Spirit.
“And behold, I am sending the promise of My Father upon you. But stay in the city (Jerusalem) until you are clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24:49
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out My Spirit.” Joel 2:28-29
“ . . . and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing.” Acts 2:33
Exalted in Us . . .
We advance the gospel by Christ being exalted in us.
- The Spirit’s work is to exalt Christ in the life of a believer so that the world may know Him.
“’When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify Me (Jesus), for He will take what is mine and declare it to you.’” John 16:13-14
Acts: Advancing the Gospel
Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:1-8
As Followers of Jesus . . .
- God has commissioned us to participate in the transcendent cause of advancing the gospel.
“ . . . after He (Jesus) had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen.” Acts 1:2
- The primary means by which the gospel advances is through the witness of His disciples.
“ . . . and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
- The same Spirit who empowered Christ, is the same Spirit who indwells and empowers us to advance the gospel.
“ . . . but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Acts 1:5
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you . . .” Acts 1:8
Advancing the Gospel . . .
- Securing the gospel well by holding fast our confession of faith.
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23
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Carrying the gospel well by living a life that makes much of Jesus. (1 Corinthians 9:23-27)
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Passing down the gospel well by sharing with those who do not know Christ.
“But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?” Romans 10:14
Joshua 24:14-28
We must clearly remember our past deliverance.
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. - Galatians 5:1
“No one is more influential in your life than you are because no one talks to you as much as you do.” - Paul Tripp
We must faithfully pursue our present holiness.
Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. - Joshua 24:14
He said, “Then put away the foreign gods that are among you, and incline your heart to the Lord, the God of Israel.” - Joshua 24:23
Little children, keep yourselves from idols. - 1 John 5:21
“Be killing sin or it will be killing you.” - John Owen
We must hopefully look toward our future glory.
So Joshua sent the people away, every man to his inheritance. - Joshua 24:28
…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith… - Hebrews 12:1-2
For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. - Hebrews 13:14
The Hurried Soul
Luke 10:38-42; Psalm 46
“ . . . there is a world of difference between being busy and being hurried. Being busy is an outward condition, a condition of the body. It occurs when we have many things to do. Busyness is inevitable in modern culture. If you are alive today in North America, you are a busy person. . . . Being hurried is an inner condition, a condition of the soul. It means to be so preoccupied with myself and my life that I am unable to be fully present with God, with myself, and with other people. I am unable to occupy the present moment. Busyness migrates to hurry when we let it squeeze God out of our lives. . . . I cannot live in the kingdom of God with a hurried soul. I cannot rest in God with a hurried soul.” John Ortberg’s interview with Dallas Willard, Soul Keeping: Caring for the Most Important Part of You
Busy but not Hurried . . .
- He took time to get away.
“But now even more the report about Him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear Him and to be healed of their infirmities. But He would withdraw to desolate places and pray.” Luke 5:15-16
“The apostles returned to Jesus and told Him all that they had done and taught. And He said to them, ‘Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.’ For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves.” Mark 6:30-32
“And after He had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone . . .” Matthew 14:23
And here’s why it is necessary . . .
- A hurried soul crowds out devotion.
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A hurried soul is a distracted
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He chose the good portion.
“’The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in Him.’” Lamentations 3:24
“I say to the LORD, ‘You are my Lord; I have no good apart from You’ . . . “The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot (life).” Psalm 16:2, 5
Multiplied Sorrows Vs. Fullness of Joy . . .
“The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply . . .”
“Deliver my soul from the wicked by Your sword, from men by Your hand O LORD, from men of the world whose portion is in this life.” Psalm 17:13-14
Help for a Hurried Soul . . .
- Evaluate the reason for your hurriedness.
- Busyness unchecked leads to a hurried soul.
- When I seek to order my busyness, I relinquish peace to a hurried soul.
- When I surrender my busyness to God, and allow Him to order my steps, I find peace in living out His purposes.
- Busyness unchecked leads to a hurried soul.
Hurriedness is often a futile attempt to fill an empty
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- The noise of your activity can only drown out the cry of your heart for so long.
Be diligent in spending time with God.
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- Take time to “come away” with Jesus and let Him quiet your soul. (Psalm 46:1-11) - A daily time with God.
- Find rest by observing the biblical principle of Sabbath.
“And He (Jesus) said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Mark 2:27
- Retreat on occasion.
Recognize that Jesus is the good portion.
“I have no good apart from You . . .” Psalm 16:2
What do you do with those questions you wrestle with that you can’t seem to reconcile in your mind or your heart?
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Take your questions into the presence of God. (Psalm 73:16-17; Matthew 11:28-30)
- When you seek to wrestle with questions on your own, you never gain a proper perspective, and it leaves you exhausted.
- Stop focusing on the periphery, and start gazing into His presence.
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Search out the Scriptures and let His word counsel (Psalm 73:23-24; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 3:5-6)
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Delight in God as the answer to life’s most difficult questions. (Psalm 73:25-26)
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Trust the wisdom of His sovereignty, and the goodness of His character.
- Every word in Scripture is for His glory and our good, even if we don’t fully understand.
- Follow the example of Jesus. (Matthew 27:46; Luke 23:46)
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Seek godly counsel only after you have sought God first. (Proverbs 12:15; 11:14)
Do all spiritual paths lead to the same God? Pastor Shawn addresses this issue in today's teaching.
“Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then he is not omnipotent. Is he able, but not willing? Then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Then whence cometh evil? Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God?” - Epicurus
Romans 8:18-30 (Text from ESV)
"Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases." - Psalm 115:3
“...[God] works all things according to the counsel of his will.” - Ephesians 1:11b
“Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:8
- God has better things in store for you than you can imagine.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." - Romans 8:18
“...we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame…” - Romans 5:3-5
- God wants what is best for you even more than you do.
“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” - Romans 8:26-27
“God will only give you what you would have asked for if you knew everything He knows.” - Tim Keller
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…” - Genesis 50:20
- God works everything together for your good.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”- Romans 8:28
“Sometimes God allows what he hates to accomplish what he loves.” - Joni Eareckson Tada
“I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.” - Charles Spurgeon
FAQ: “What should we be praying for the world/our nation, considering that the circumstances in our world will inevitable worsen as the time gets closer for Jesus to return?”
Passage: Matthew 6:9-13
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Pray that God would be adored!
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Pray that our desires would be His Desires
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Pray That our behaviors would reflect Him
F.A.Q. (Frequently Avoided Questions)
How should I respond to my teenage child when he/she tells me they are gay (homosexual)?
Responding Biblically . . .
- Listen before you speak.
“Know this, my beloved brothers (and sisters); let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” James 1:19-20
- Engage in conversation by asking open ended questions to gain clarity.
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- When you say that you are gay, what do you mean?
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- Is there an attraction to the same sex?
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- In our culture, to struggle with same-sex attraction is often perceived as identifying, and living a lifestyle, as gay.
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Is there activity you are engaging in with the same sex?
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Open the Scriptures, and let God’s word be your counsel.
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Let God’s word, reprove, correct, and train in righteousness.
“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 competent, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17
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Let the Word do the work.
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Speak truth with much grace and love.
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Share with him/her that our identity is to be found in Christ, not our sexuality.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17
- We are not defined by our struggles, but by who we are in Christ.
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life that I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
- Fight for the heart of your child in prayer.
“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” James 5:16
“The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with.” James 5:16 (The Message)
- Pray the truth of Scripture over your child.
- Pray consistently with your child.
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Reclaim ground that has been stolen by the enemy.
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Protect him/her by establishing healthy boundaries.
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- Set boundaries with what is allowed on their mobile devices, laptops, etc.,
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Don’t let culture be your child’s counselor.
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Be aware of the relationships in which he/she is engaged.
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Do not allow them to run unchecked on the playground of culture.
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Love them unconditionally.
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- To love them does not mean you condone sinful behavior, but rather reflect compassionate grace.
“Turn”
Malachi 4:4-6
Turn Your Heart to Your Child . . .
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By turning from selfish pursuits, and pursuing the heart of your son/daughter.
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By turning from inattentiveness, and being fully present with your son/daughter.
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By turning from passivity, and taking initiative with your son/daughter.
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By turning from a critical spirit, and offering encouragement to your son/daughter.
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By turning from harshness, and showing gentleness, compassion and grace. “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4
You cannot turn your heart to something without turning your heart from something.
But How . . . ?
Your heart will turn when your heart is transformed.
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By repenting of sin, and turning your heart to Jesus.
- What your child needs is a dad whose heart is fully surrendered to Jesus.
- What your child needs is a dad whose heart is saturated by the Word of God. (Deuteronomy 4:8-10; Deuteronomy 6:4-9)
- What your child needs is a dad whose heart is committed to prayer.
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By determining to be intentional in pointing your children to Jesus. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)
Turn Your Heart to Your Father . . .
- Be obedient.
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” Ephesians 6:1
- Be honoring.
“Honor your father and mother, that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Ephesians 6:2-3
- Be forgiving.
- Unforgiveness imprisons your heart with bars unseen.
“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give not opportunity to the devil.” Ephesians 4:26-27
“ . . . as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” Colossians 3:13
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32
The Heart of the Gospel . . .
- God the Father has turned His heart toward us in His Son, Jesus Christ.
F.A.Q. (Frequently Avoided Questions)
Question: What is the bare minimum required to be a Christian? Does one need to believe in the trinity, virgin birth, or inerrancy of Scripture?
Defining the Terms . . .
- A Christian is one who is a disciple of Jesus Christ.
“And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” Acts 11:26
- A disciple is one who follows.
What Does It Mean to Be a Christian/Disciple? . . .
- To become a Christian, I respond to the invitation of God to place my faith in Christ for the forgiveness of my sin.
“No one can come to Me (Jesus) unless the Father who sent Me draws him . . . It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe. This is why I told you that no one can come to Me unless it is granted him by My Father.” John 6:44,63-65
- To become a Christian, I find forgiveness of sin by confessing, repenting, and believing the name of Jesus Christ.
“ . . . because if you confess with your moth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.” Romans 10:9-10
And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself.” Acts 2:38-39
- To be a Christian means that you are willing to lay down everything for all of who Jesus (Luke 9:57-62; Mark 10:17-31)
The Bottom Line . . .
- The minimum that God requires is everything.
“And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him (Jesus).” Luke 5:11
- Jesus’ call is to come and die.
“If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever saves his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of Me and of My words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when He comes in His glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” Luke 9:23-26
F.A.Q: What Does the Bible Say About Capital Punishment?
Scripture Says . . .
- Capital punishment is permissible for the capital offense of murder.
“From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man. ‘Whoever sheds blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in His own image.’” Genesis 9:5-6
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Does not diminish life, but rather reveals God’s elevated view of human life.
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Governing authorities are God’s appointed instruments of civil
- Instituted by God as a servant to reward those who do good and punish those who do wrong. (1 Peter 2:13-17; Romans 13:1-7)
A Pressing Question . . .
- What about the New Testament and grace?
- To receive mercy and grace for our sin does not exonerate us from the consequences of our sinful choices.
- Justice and mercy are not incompatible, but are inseparable.
- Justice is never sacrificed because of grace, but is fully satisfied because of grace.
5 Biblical Cautions Regarding Capital Punishment . . .
- Punishment equal to the crime
“But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.” Exodus 21:23-25
- Certainty of guilt
“On the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses the one who is to die shall be put to death; a person shall not be put to death on the evidence of one witness.” Deuteronomy 17:6
“If anyone kills a person, the murderer shall be put to death on the evidence of witnesses. But no person shall be put to death on the testimony of one witness.” Numbers 35:30
- Intent
“But if he pushed him suddenly without enmity, or hurled anything on him without lying in wait or used a stone that could cause death, and without seeing him dropped it on him, so that he died, though he was not his enemy and did not seek his harm, then the congregation shall judge between the manslayer and the avenger of blood, in accordance with these rules.” Numbers 35:22-24
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Due process (Deuteronomy 17:8-13)
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Last resort
“Say to them, As I live, declares the LORD God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel?”
How Do We Respond as Christ-Followers? . . .
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Pray for those who have been offended.
- Forgiveness
- Healing
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Pray for those who are the offenders.
- Pray for their repentance.
- Pray for your heart to be grieved over them, not rejoicing.
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Pray for wisdom for our judicial officials.
- To judge rightly
- To judge fairly
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Pray for a heart that is broken over the brokenness of this world.
“Enough”
Matthew 15:32-39
More Than Enough . . .
- Jesus desires to fill up what is lacking in you.
“And I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way . . . And they all ate and were satisfied.” Matthew 15: 32, 37
“The Lord is My Shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1
“Oh, fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him have no lack! The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.” Psalm 34:9-10
- Jesus takes what you give Him, and multiplies it exponentially. (v.33-36, 38)
“ . . . He took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks He broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds . . . Those who ate were four thousand men besides women and children.”
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Surrender to Jesus all you are, and all you have, and He will turn your “not enough” into more than enough.
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Jesus is the source of more than enough.
“And they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over.” (v. 37)
“If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” John 7:37-38
- Lay down your pursuit of “being enough,” and rest in Christ who is more than enough.
“Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
- Jesus is more than enough to help you be mom
When God Calls My Name
God calls my name to get my attention.
“But the LORD God called to the man and said to him, ‘(Adam) Where are you?’” Genesis 3:9
God calls my name to invite me into a relationship with Him.
“And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” 8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:5-10
“When Jesus had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out.’ The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, and let him go.’” John 11:43-44
God calls my name to remind me that I’m loved by Him.
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.” John 21:15-19
God calls my name to invite me to be a part of something bigger than me.
10 Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” 12 He said, “But I will be with you, and this shall be the sign for you, that I have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.” Exodus 3:10-12
God calls my name and gives me a new identity.
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10
17” He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.’” Revelation 2:17
12 “The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name.” Revelation 3:12
In Living Color: Eyes Wide Open
Luke 24:13-35
On the Road . . .
Jesus draws near to those seeking understanding. (Luke 24:15; Acts 17:22-31)
“While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus Himself drew near and went with them.”
- To those seeking a Savior.
“But we had hoped that He was the one to redeem Israel.” (Luke 24:21)
- To those who are skeptical but asking questions.
Jesus gives meaning to the message because He is the message. (Luke 24:27, 44-49)
- Jesus makes sense of Scripture because He is the Word made flesh.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:1, 14, 17
- All that the Law and the Prophets point to find its fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ.
Jesus opens spiritually blind eyes and ignites the soul. (Luke 24:31-32)
- Only Jesus gives sight to the spiritually blind.
- The Scriptures, without the redeeming work of Christ, is just an empty book with no resolve.
- Jesus resolves the conflict in the story of God.
The Road You Travel . . .
- How am I going to respond to the truth that Jesus is who Scripture says He is?
- How long will I continue to walk down the road seeking understanding, when the truth is clearly before me?
In Living Color”
John 20:1-10
The resurrection of Jesus changes everything!
- Because of the resurrection, sin’s curse has been broken.
“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.” 1 Corinthians 15:17
- Because of the resurrection, death does not shout in triumph over me.
“By this I know that you delight in me; my enemy will not shout in triumph over me.” Psalm 41:11
- The resurrection is God’s deathblow to death.
“’Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:55,56
- Because of the resurrection, I can be made fully alive. (Colossians 2:13-14)
“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses (sin), made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 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.” Ephesians 2:4-9
“And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.” Colossians 2:13-14
- Because of the resurrection, I can have a living hope.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3-5
“What oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of human life.”—Emil Brunner
The Takeway . . .
- The hope the resurrection gives is found only when you are raised by Christ from spiritual death to spiritual life.
“Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.” Romans 10:9-10
Statement #5:
“I thirst.” John 19:28-30
Why Thirsty? . . .
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Jesus was thirsty because of the effects of a brutal death.
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Jesus was fulfilling what David had written in the Psalms.
“They gave me poison for food, and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink.” Psalm 69:21
“I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast; my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death. For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet—I can count all my bones—they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.” Psalm 22:14-18
“When you pricked Jesus Christ, when you stabbed Jesus Christ, he literally bled Scripture. He knew the Scripture so well, he thought about the Scripture so pervasively, it so saturated and permeated his whole being and his imagination and his feelings and his will and his knowledge that it shaped him instinctively. The Scripture shaped every part of him…His nobility, his courage, his peace, his faith all happened because he was saturated with Scripture.” Tim Keller
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There is nothing more affirming of the Scriptures than Jesus’ tenacious obedience to, and fulfillment of them.
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In Jesus’ most agonizing moments on the cross, what proceeded from His mouth was what resonated in His heart.
- “I have stored up Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11
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Because Jesus had such high regard for the Scriptures, even more should we.
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Jesus may have been indicating His longing for His Father’s presence. (Psalm 42)
The Takeaway . . .
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How thirsty are you for God’s presence?
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Do you feel the weight of the distance sin puts between you and God?
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How thirsty are you for God’s word?
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How thirsty are you for God’s righteousness?
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Matthew 5:6
Statement #4:
“My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46)
What Jesus Knew . . .
- Jesus knew that He would pay the price for our sin. (Mark 2:20; Luke 9:22,44; 18:31-33; John 18:4)
- The agony Jesus would suffer, and the victory He would secure, were not a surprise to Him.
- Jesus trusted the sovereignty of His Father. (Isaiah 53:10; Psalm 22:7b, 24
What Jesus Experienced . . .
- He did not just feel rejected and abandoned by God, He was rejected and abandoned.
Why Jesus Was Forsaken . . .
- He bore all the weight of our sin. (Isaiah 53:4)
- He bore the curse of sin. (2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:13; Romans 6:23)
- God’s final act towards His Son would be His full wrath poured out in judgment of sin.
- He was forsaken so that we would not have to be forsaken. (Romans 5:6-11)
- Jesus substituted Himself in our place.
Why It Matters . . .
- So that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. (1 Peter 2:24)
So What? . . .
Statement #3:
“Woman, behold your son!” . . . (to John) “Behold, your mother!” John 19:26-27
- At the moment of His greatest ______, Jesus met the _______of His mother.
- Her _______ need—to be ________ to God through the sacrifice of Jesus.
“ . . . that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:19
- Her _______and ________ needs—to be ministered to by other ________.
“’Behold, your mother!’ And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.” John 19:27
- In your _______moments He meets your greatest need by the _____ of His glory.
“ . . . that you may know what is the hope to which He has called you, what are the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His great might that He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places . . .” Ephesians 1:18-20
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
The Takeaways . . .
- Jesus cares for you in the deeply _________moments of your life.
- God has shown to you, through His Son Jesus, how deeply _____and _______for you are.
“Casting all your anxieties upon Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
- God’s care for those who believe is most tangibly expressed through the __________ of believers.
“And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:44-47
“Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common . . . there was not a needy person among them . . .” Acts 4:32, 34a
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24,25
“7 Statements of Christ from the Cross”
Luke 23: 32-43
Statement #2:
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
- Jesus stepped into our brokenness and took on all our sin.
“For our sake God made him (Jesus) to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him (Jesus) we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
- The thief acknowledged his sin and surrendered to the Savior.
- He went from reviler to worshipper.
“Those who were crucified with Him also reviled Him.” Mark 15:32
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The gospel doesn’t demand works; it demands worship.
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The promise of Christ, to a penitent sinner, is a clear picture that salvation is an act of grace, not works.
“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved . . .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.” Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
- No one is beyond the reach of God’s great salvation.
“Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or His ear dull, that it cannot hear.” Isaiah 59:1
-
The gift of salvation is never delayed to a heart that is repentant.
- “Today you will be with Me . . .” Luke 23:43
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Paradise is not lost, but gained, for those who trust in the One who makes all things new.
“And He who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’” Revelation 21:5a
Statement #1:
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
Ignorance does not make a person any less a sinner.
“None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” 1 Corinthians 2:8
“And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that His Christ would suffer, He thus fulfilled. Repent, therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out . . .” Acts 3:17-19
- Jesus interceded on our behalf to make available what every sinner needs most: forgiveness.
- The cross is the visible display of what was required for us to be forgiven.
“ . . . because He poured out His soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet He bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.” Isaiah 53:12
- Every sinner needs forgiveness, because every sinner is guilty.
- Every sinner needs forgiveness because without it we remain separated from God.
- Every sinner needs forgiveness because without it we remain under His wrath.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” John 3:36
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Every sinner receives forgiveness when he/she confesses and repents (turns away from) of sin. (Acts 3:19)
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Jesus was able to pray this because His sacrifice met the righteous demands of a Holy
“ . . . for this is the blood of My covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Matthew 26:28
“ . . . and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” Hebrews 9:22
“ . . . and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” 1 John 1:7
- Jesus intercedes for us as we seek to forgive those who have wounded
- At the pinnacle of His pain, mercy and grace were on His lips.
- As believers, Christ in us gives us the grace and mercy we need to forgive those who have deeply wounded us.
- At the pinnacle of His pain, mercy and grace were on His lips.
1 Chronicles 29:10-18
Four Reality Checks . . .
- Everything is God’s, and nothing is mine.
“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is Yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and You are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might, and in Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all.” 1 Chronicles 29:11-12
- I have nothing to offer God that He has not already given to me.
“O LORD our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building You a house for Your holy name comes from Your hand and is all Your own.” 1 Chronicles 29:16
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There is nothing that you or I will give to God where His response will be, “Where did you get that?!?”
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Because I am to manage wisely all that He has given to me, I should constantly ask, “What do I do with all you have entrusted to me?”
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All that I have, and what I do with it, will reveal the true condition of my heart.
“For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21
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Your heart does not wander from your treasure.
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God blesses those who hold His treasures with open hands and find joy in the grace of giving.
“I know, my God, that You test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen Your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to You.” 1 Chronicles 29:17
“Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly.” 1 Chronicles 29:9
The Invitation . . .
God is inviting us to leverage what He has given us to manage, for His kingdom purposes.
Relational Drift and Reconciliation . . .
- You can’t reconcile what you don’t see as broken.
- : Her story, His story, & God’s story
Every Marriage Tells a Story . . .
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God’s story for marriage is far better than our culture’s
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The way in which you reconcile broken relationships on earth is by following what God has done in reconciling us to Himself through Christ.
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Grace—Jesus gives grace even though I am undeserving.
“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.” Ephesians 2:8-9
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I am willing to give grace even though I don’t feel you deserve
- Why? Because the gospel of grace reconciles what is broken.
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Humility—Jesus put my needs before His own.
“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:5-8
- I am willing to put your needs before my
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
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I am willing to admit my faults and my flaws.
- Why? Because the gospel of grace always leads me to Christ-like humility.
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Forgiveness—Jesus has not held my offense against me.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34
- I choose to forgive those who have offended (Matthew 18:21-35)
“ . . . bearing with one another and, if one of you has a complaint against another, forgiving each other, as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” Colossians 3:13
“Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you.” (The Message)
- Why? Because the gospel of grace does not keep a ledger of offense.
- : Hosea
Honest Evaluation . . .
What is the real story that my marriage is telling?
What is God really saying to me about me?
Who will I talk to, who is trustworthy and spiritually mature, in order to gain a truer perspective of me and my marriage?
Four Characteristics of Couples Who Thrive
- Christ: There is a renewed spiritual vitality.
John 15: 1–17, 1 Corinthians 10:312.
2. Circle: They see themselves as their biggest marriage problem.
Matthew 7: 3-5
3. Committed: They are ruthlessly committed to their marriage.
Matthew 19:6
4. Community: They are fully known by others.
Hebrews: 10:24, 1 Thessalonians 5:14
In this conclusion of the series, "Simply Jesus" Pastor Shawn talks about relationships and the importance of God's influence and direction in our lives as we interact with others.
Simply Jesus”
Colossians 3:1-15
Live Differently . . .
- I live differently because, as a believer, I have been ____________ with Christ.
Which means . . .
-
It changes what I _____________ and what I ___________ about.
- _________ the things ___________ where Christ is seated.
- _______ your __________ on things above, not on things that don’t ______.
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What you seek and set your mind on __________ how you live your ________ here on earth.
- Our heart and mind should dwell on things above so that it affects how we live below. It’s as though we live in two realms: our affections (the things we love) and our mind (the things we think on) are heavenly minded and it influences how we live our lives here on earth.
- So the question you need to ask and honestly answer is this: What is it that captivates my affections (desires) and my attention (think about; focus on)?
- What does your ____________ run after?
- What ______________ your mind?
Two Reasons Why I Seek and Set My Mind on Things Above . . .
- Because I have ___________ to the things I once desired and set my mind on.
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Because I have ____________________ to all I am, and have, ________________.
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The riches of His glory; in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
- To look with an ________________ gaze at the things of this world, when I have an all-sufficient Savior, is _______________ at best.
I am “hidden in Christ.” (means I am influenced by, affected by, the person and work of Christ.)
- My _____________ have become what He desires.
- My ________________ have become what He thinks about. (Phil. 2:5)
So how do I keep my heart’s affections and my mind’s focus on things above? . . .
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Put to _____________ what is not of Christ. (vv. 5-11)
- Put to death that which is not of Christ by ______________.
- What you don’t kill will _______________ you.
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______________ what is of Christ. (vv.12-15)
Join us as Pastor Shawn, Worship Pastor Dave Hassell and three of our volunteer Worship Leaders discuss the definition and application of worship.
Simply Supreme . . .
Colossians 1:15-23
There is no one more supreme than Jesus.
Because . . .
- Jesus is the image of the invisible God.
- Jesus is not merely a reflection of God’s glory; He is the radiance of God’s glory.
“He (Jesus) is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature . . .” Hebrews 1:3
“He is the Creator of all things and the Heir of all things. He is the very brightness of the glory of God. Again, it is not enough to say that He is the supreme reflection of divine glory. Nay, He is the brightness of that glory. He is the express image of God’s person, the one who bears the imago dei supremely.” R.C. Sproul
- Jesus is the sovereign ruler over all creation.
“ . . . but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He (God) appointed the heir of all things, through whom He also created the world.” Hebrews 1:2
- Jesus is the One who holds all things together.
- In Christ Jesus all things hold together, but separate from Him all things fall apart.
So What?
If you want to know who God is, He has revealed Himself through Jesus.
If you want the best in this life and the life to come, then Jesus must be first in your life.
If you are separated from God, Jesus has made a way to be reconciled to Him.
Loving people is the overflow of understanding God's grace, and the essence of the gospel.
The Wonder of God’s Greatest Gift . . .
Isaiah 9:1-7
God Knows Best . . .
- God knows best what we need most.
- Christ has entered into the darkness of our world, as the light of salvation, to bring us hope and cause our hearts to celebrate with joy.
The Best Gift Ever . . .
- He is the Wonderful Counselor
- We need wisdom and direction so God has given us His Son who is our wonderful counselor.
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” Psalm 32:8
“I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.” Psalm 16:7-8
“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and how inscrutable His ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counselor?” Romans 11:33-34
“. . . in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3
- He is Mighty
- We need strength so God has given us His Son who is Mighty God.
- When the enemy seems to have the upper hand, remember that God’s hand is sovereign.
- We need strength so God has given us His Son who is Mighty God.
“Who is this King of Glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle!” Psalm 24:8
“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe.” Deuteronomy 10:17
- He is Everlasting Father.
- We need to be fathered, so God has given us His Son who shepherds
“There is no unfathering Christ, and there is no unchilding us. He is everlastingly a father to those who trust in him.” Charles Spurgeon
- He is Prince of Peace.
- We need peace, so God has given us His Son who is the Prince of Peace.
“For He Himself is our peace . . .” Ephesians 2:14a
The Everlasting Gift . . .
- There never has been, nor will there ever be, an end to the rule and reign of Christ.
“Psalms”
Psalm 96
A Song Worth Singing . . .
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God is worth celebrating and making much of because of His marvelous works. (v.1-3)
- The most marvelous work God has done for us is His work on the cross.
- Sing a new song
- Tell of His salvation
- Declare His glory among all the nations
- The most marvelous work God has done for us is His work on the cross.
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God is unrivaled and unmatched in who He is and what He has done. (v.4-6)
- Every world religion, with the exception of Christianity, is man’s futile attempt to find and work their way to God.
A Transcendent Cause . . .
- God has invited us to join in the transcendent cause of declaring His glory to all (v.10-13)
- We must tell every person, in every nation, that Christ has come and He will come again. (v.13)
- Who will I tell?
- Who will I invite?
- Who will I show?
- We must tell every person, in every nation, that Christ has come and He will come again. (v.13)
Authentic Praise . . .
- The witness of our faith story is undeniable when the authentic praise of a rescued people worships the One who has rescued us.
“He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.” Psalm 40:3
My Response . . .
- Engage in gospel conversations.
- Go on mission.
- Give to make the gospel
Psalms”
Psalm 130
What I See Through the Eyes of the Psalmist . . .
Great Guilt . . .
- I stand guilty before a holy God and in need of His great mercy.
- The depravity of my sinfulness is exposed by his righteousness. (Isaiah 6:1-7)
“Out of the depths I cry to You, O LORD!” (v.1)
- I desperately cry for mercy because I realize that my offense is worthy of God’s wrath.
“I cry to you . . . hear my voice . . .be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy! If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?” (v.2-3)
Great Mercy . . .
- God’s mercy is graciously shown in His forgiveness. (v.4)
- When I become aware of the greatness of Jesus’ sacrifice, in light of the depravity of my sinfulness, it deepens my sense of awe towards a holy and gracious God who forgives.
“But with You there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.” (v.4)
His great mercy and forgiveness do not come without a cost . . .
Great Redemption . . .
- My hope is found in His plentiful (v.7-8)
- Jesus Christ took my sin and received God’s wrath to purchase my salvation.
“For our sake He (God) made Him (Jesus) to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him (Jesus) we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
Great Hope . . .
- I hope in His word as I eagerly wait for His great salvation that is to come. (v.5-6)
My Response . . .
State of the Church 2016
Acts 1:6-8
Our God-given Vision . . .
- That Crossgate will become an epicenter of God’s activity from which He will shake the nations for His glory.
Our God-given Mission . . .
- To Lead people to Christ.
- To Equip people to grow in Christ.
- To Send people out in the name of Christ.
Reason to Celebrate . . .
- We are leading people to Christ
- This past year we have seen 51 people give their lives to Christ and follow in baptism
- 23 were our Adventure Lodge children
- 7 were between the ages of 18-29
- 21 were over the age of 30
- We are equipping people to grow in Christ
- Over 500 involved in LifeGroups
- 40 couples going through Re|Engage marriage enrichment this semester; 75 couples who participated in our “Date in the Box”; approximately 80 couples attended our Uncommon marriage conference this past year.
- In Discovery Land we’ve seen an increase on Sunday mornings from an average of 62 to 85 children. (37% increase); 25% increase on Wednesday nights from last year; we utilized 7 rooms last year, now we are using 9 and needing to expand even more.
- In Adventure Lodge, we’re averaging 100 on Sunday mornings. (20% increase)
- Our student ministry is trending up in attendance.
- We’ve launched a new 20somethings ministry and have been averaging around 40.
- We are sending people out in the name of Christ
- We’ve had 1,070 Crossgate members and attenders involved in mission projects this past year.
- Our missions giving increased over the past year by 27%.
- We are engaged missionally in local, state, national, and international projects.
- This past year we have seen 51 people give their lives to Christ and follow in baptism
Reason to Press On . . .
- N3 Initiative
- Treasuring Christ
Putting our “Yes” on the Table . . .
20 "Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;
wisdom and power are his.
21 He changes times and seasons;
he deposes kings and raises up others.
He gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to the discerning.
22 He reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what lies in darkness,
and light dwells with him.
23 I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors:
You have given me wisdom and power,
you have made known to me what we asked of you,
you have made known to us the dream of the king.”
- Daniel 2:20 - 23
Psalm 77
How Should I Respond in Times of Distress?
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In your time of distress, cry out to God. (v. 1)
- God always hears and responds to those who cry out to Him. (Psalm 107:6, 13, 28; Psalm 18:6)
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In your time of distress seek “In the day of trouble I seek the Lord.” (v.2, 6, 10)
“But as for me, I would seek God . . .” Job 5:8
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In your time of distress, know that God is big enough to handle your questions. (v.7-9)
- Don’t let your questions high center your faith.
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In your time of distress, make a conscious decision to remember the faithfulness of God. (v.11-12)
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In your time of distress, you can trust that God is leading you not leaving (v.13-20)
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
- It is an act of grace that God would lead us through difficult times so that we might press in to know Him in ways we otherwise never would.
The Big Question . . .
- What is your strategy for handling the distress you may be experiencing in your life right now?
- Are you crying out to God, or are you turning to someone or something else?
- Are you seeking God, or blaming God?
- Are your questions leading you to answers, or does your faith feel high centered?
- In what ways are you consciously deciding to remember God’s faithfulness toward you?
“Psalms”
Psalm 46
Because God Is My Refuge . . .
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I can have confident trust in knowing I have nothing to fear.
- The things I often place my trust and find refuge in, do not hold up when my world is shaken.
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I do not need to fear because He is ever present.
- He is in our midst (v.5)
- He is our joy (v.4)
- He is our help (v.5)
- He is our security (v.5)
- He is sovereign over all (v.6-9)
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When the “even though” moments happen in life, I can rest in the truth that “God is.”
- Do not become overwhelmed by what surrounds you and underwhelmed by Christ in you.
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I need to be still and know that He is God and I am not. (v.10)
- God is worthy of our worship and wonder.
- We meet God in the Selah moments of our life.
- God is worthy of our worship and wonder.
“Psalms”
Psalm 40
From the Pit to Praise . . .
- There will be times in life where I find myself in the pit of despair.
- Heart issues—sometimes the pit we find ourselves in is result of our own digging. (Our sinful choices)
“ . . . my iniquities have overtaken me, and I cannot see; they are more than the hairs of my head; my heart fails me.” Psalm 40:12b
- Life issues—sometimes the pit we find ourselves in is a result of the brokenness of life.
“For evils have encompassed me beyond number . . .” Psalm 40:12a
- My only hope for rescue is to cry out to God.
“Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me! O LORD, make haste to help me!” Psalm 40:13
“ . . . He inclined to me and heard my cry.” Psalm 40:1
“Blessed is the one who makes the LORD his trust, who does not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after a lie!” Psalm 40:4
- As I wait expectantly I can trust that God is at work in my waiting.
“I waited patiently for the LORD . . .” Psalm 40:1
- God’s grace rescues me from the pit and gives me a secure place to stand and a new song of praise to sing.
“He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.” Psalm 40:2-3
- The gospel is advanced as the world witnesses the rescue of those who cry out to God and place their hope in Him.
“Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.” Psalm 40:3
My Pit . . .
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Am I in a pit of despair?
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Am I ready to cry out to God to save me from the pit I’m in, or will I continue to try and do it on my own?
Psalms”
Psalm 23
Because God is the Good Shepherd, I Can Trust That . . .
- He provides every good thing I need. (vv.1-3)
“For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” Psalm 84:11
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All I need is found in all Christ
-
He never leads me where His presence doesn’t go before me and remain. (v.4)
- Wherever He leads, He is always with me. (Isaiah 43:2)
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me . . .” Psalm 23:4a
- I have nothing to fear in the shadow of death because Jesus Christ took the sting of death and overcame.
- I have nothing to fear because His Word and His Spirit are my comfort, my guide, and my protection.
“Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4b
- Even in the most difficult circumstances I can delight in His goodness because of His grace.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23:5
- He relentlessly pursues me with His goodness and steadfast love.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life . . .” Psalm 23:6
- He leads me to the hope of dwelling with Him forever.
“And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Psalm 23:6
“Psalm 8”
Psalm 8:1-9
Majestic . . .
- There is no other as majestic as God.
“O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” (v.1)
Yet Mindful of Us . . .
- We are the recipients of God’s undivided attention and gracious affections.
Why? . . .
- So that we might delight in, and display, the glory of Christ and the gospel of His grace.
- Because we are created in God’s image, He has chosen to display His greatness, His glory, and His grace in and through
“To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27
Questions to Think On . . .
-
How will you respond to God, today, knowing that He has taken notice of you, and loves you with an unconditional and unending love?
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When people see your life, are they in awe of God because they see the majesty, glory, and grace of Christ on display in and through you?
Psalms”
Psalm 1:1-6
An Appeal to Our Mind & Heart . . .
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The Psalms are instructive regarding how we think, specifically in . . . (Illus.: making a mess by not following the instructions)
- How we relate to God.
- How we relate to others.
- How to live life.
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The Psalms are meant to stir the affections and feelings of our heart and align them with the truth of God’s instruction.
Delighting in the World . . .
- When you disregard God’s instruction and delight in the world, it wrongly influences how you think and feel about God, others, and life.
- Walking in the counsel of the wicked doesn’t bring happiness.
“Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her, for she is your life. Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil. Avoid it; do not go on it; turn away from it and pass on.” Proverbs 4:13-15
- Standing in the way of sinners doesn’t bring happiness.
“My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.” Proverbs 1:10
- Sitting in the seat of scoffers doesn’t bring happiness.
“’Scoffer’ is the name of the arrogant, haughty man who acts in arrogant pride.” Proverbs 21:24
“Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath.” Proverbs 29:8
“There is a way that SEEMS right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Proverbs 16:25
- Delighting in the world never leads to happiness.
Delighting in the Word . . .
- When you delight in God’s instruction, it rightly influences how you think and feel about God, others, and life.
- A daily discipline in God’s word will awaken your delight for Him.
“The battle to avoid the counsel of the wicked and the way of the sinner and the seat of the scoffer — the battle to be righteous and holy and humble — is a fight that is won by delight.” John Piper
- The measure of your obedience to God will be determined by the depth of your delight in God.
Where I Am . . .
“Superglue and Jesus”
Colossians 1:15-20
The Simple Truth . . .
- If you feel as though your life is falling apart, there is hope in Christ.
- Even that which is broken can be reconciled by Christ.
- Reconciled: brought back to God’s original design
- Even that which is broken can be reconciled by Christ.
The Reason You Can Have Hope . . .
- Because in Christ, all things hold together. (v. 17)
“And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” (v.17)
“He (Jesus) is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature, and He upholds the universe by the word of His power.” Hebrews 1:3
The Reason You Need Christ . . .
- Separate from Christ everything falls apart.
- What God does His way always ends up as a testimony; but what I do my way always ends up a train wreck.
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Proverbs 16:25
So What?
- Without Christ, your scars only tell a story of brokenness. But in Christ your scars tell a story of God’s unconditional love and overwhelming grace.
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7
Title: Who is this King of Glory?
Passage: Psalm 24
- Knowing who the King of Glory is reminds me of His position and power.
2. Knowing who the King of Glory is reminds me of my desire for Him.
3. Knowing who the King of Glory is humbles me and gives me hope
Title: What’s the Next Step?
Text: Matthew 28:18-20
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How did Jesus call people to follow?
- Come and See - John 1:39
- Follow Me – Matthew 4:19
- Learn from me – Matthew 11:29
- Remain in Me – John 15:4
- Obey Me -John 14:15 & John 15:14
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What does God say about you? You are valuable in God’s eyes
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Who does God Invest in?
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Why are we failing at Discipleship?
- What it is not:
- A Class
- A Program
- A Spiritual gift that some Christians have
- Something “Professional” Christians do, while Regular Christians do not
- Where did we go wrong? Far too few Christians are Making Disciples
- What it is not:
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What is Discipleship?
- Oxford American Dictionary defines disciple as: “a person who Follows the Teachings of another, whom he Accepts as a leader.”
- Spiros Zodhiates – New Testament Disciple is “an Adherer who accepts the Instruction given to him and makes it his Rule of conduct.”
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What is our Goal at Crossgate?
- We say, “The Church where Nobody stands Alone”
- We believe Discipleship happens best in Circles instead of Rows
re|engage
July 31, 2016
Investment: Take It To The Bank (Galatians 6:7-9)
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The _____________Law of God in ______________investment is that you _______what you ______________. (Galatians 6:7)
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Once you sow you must ___________, ____________, and _______________it to insure an _________________harvest. (Galatians 6:8)
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Occasionally you will reap ________________, but most often it will take much ______________. (Galatians 6:9)
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To _________________ to reap you must be __________________and continually invest in the ____________________ (Galatians 6:9)
F.A.Q.: “What Happens to Those Who Never Hear the Gospel of Christ?”
Romans 1:18-25; 3:9-31; 10:13-15; 15:19-29
A World In Need . . .
- There are 38 billion people in the world.
- 2 billion are unreached (42.3%)
- 02 billion unreached are in the 10/40 window.
The Unavoidable Truth . . .
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God has made Himself known to all people. (Romans 1:18-25)
- Through the general revelation of His creation. (Psalm 19:1-6)
- Through the special revelation in His Son, Jesus Christ, and His word.
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All people are guilty before God. (Romans 3:19-20, 23)
- There are no innocent people in the world. (Romans 1: 20b, 3:23)
- All people are condemned for rejecting (John 3:16-18)
Outrageous Grace . . .
- God has made a way for all to know Him in relationship by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
- God seeks us, we do not seek (John 6:44, 65; Acts 10)
- Apart from faith in Christ we cannot come to God. (Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 10:6)
Gospel Strategy . . .
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The primary means by which God makes the gospel known is through His Church. (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:14-17)
- We are to go. (Romans 10:15)
- We are to speak the gospel. (Romans 10:14)
- The gospel will be heard. (Romans 10:14)
- People will believe and call out to Christ. (Romans 10:14)
- People will be saved. (Romans 10:13)
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This gospel will be preached throughout the whole world and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:14; Revelation 14:6; Revelation 7:9-10)
My Response . . .
FAQ: Can I Lose My Salvation?
Ephesians 2:8-9; John 10:22-30
What Salvation is NOT . . .
- Salvation is not determined by my heritage.
- Salvation is not earned by works or keeping rules. (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-5)
- Salvation is not received because of my knowledge about God.
- Salvation is not dependent upon me.
What Salvation IS . . .
- It is the gracious act of God that has rescued us from sin and reconciled us to Him through the substitutionary death of His Son, Jesus Christ.
- Salvation is initiated by God. (John 6:44,63-65)
“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.” Ephesians 2:8-9
- Salvation is received as I respond in faith.
- Salvation is evidenced by a life that follows (John 10:27)
“If your faith hasn’t changed you, your faith hasn’t saved you.” James MacDonald
How do I know I’m saved . . .? (John 10:1-30; 1 John)
- There is evidence of life-change that is consistent with the character of Christ. (Luke 3:3-14; Gal. 5:22-23)
- There is grieving over sin and repentance of sin. (Psalm 32:1-5; Psalm 51)
- The desire and pattern of my life are to live in obedience to the word of God. (1 John 2:3-5; John 10:27)
Why I Cannot Lose My Salvation . . .
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Because I am saved by the grace of God. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- I have been purchased by His blood and cannot be unpurchased. (1 Peter 1:18-19)
- I am a new creation and cannot be uncreated. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- I am born again spiritually and cannot be unborn. (John 3:3)
- I am adopted as a son/daughter and cannot be unadopted. (Ephesians 1:5; Romans 8:15)
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Because sin cannot snatch away what God has rescued by the abounding victory of grace. (Romans 5:20-21; John 10:28)
- I am sealed by the Spirit of God. (Ephesians 1:13-14)
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Because nothing can separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:38)
The All Important Question . . .
- Am I truly saved?
- Have I recognized that I am a sinner under the wrath of God?
- Have I recognized the inexpressible gift of grace offered by God?
- Have I willingly surrendered my life to Christ by turning from sin and receiving this gift of grace that I so desperately need?
“F.A.Q.: What Do I Do When God Seems Silent?”
Hebrews 1:1-4
What Is Most Important . . .
- We have to be careful that we don’t become enamored with the means by which God spoke and miss the God who has spoken.
“How God spoke in the Old Testament is not the most important factor. That He spoke is the crucial point.” Henry Blackaby
- God has chosen to speak to us in a more direct and personal In Christ, God has drawn nearer. (Hebrews 1:2)
God Speaks . . .
- In the gospels, God spoke through His Son, Jesus. (John 1:1, 14; 14:9-10)
- Today, God speaks to us by His Holy Spirit, revealing Himself, His purposes and His ways.
- Through the Scriptures.
- Through prayer.
- Through life circumstances.
- Through the church (true followers of Christ).
When God SEEMS Silent . . .
- Even when God seems silent, His nearness is loud.
“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth . . .He also hears their cry and saves them.” Psalm 145:18,19
“But You are near, O Lord, and all Your commandments are true.” Psalm 119:151
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In silent moments, stay close.
- Our hearing dulls the further we wander.
- Anchor your heart and mind to the Word of God.
- Our hearing dulls the further we wander.
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In silent moments, evaluate your heart. (Psalm 139:23; Jeremiah 17:9,10)
- Unconfessed sin and misplaced affections often captivate your attention and distract you from hearing.
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In silent moments, don’t trust how you feel but hold on to what you know is true.
- Don’t let truth be sacrificed on the altar of your feelings.
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In silent moments wait on God.
- As a follower of Christ, the Spirit of God in you always affirms the voice of God.
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27
“F.A.Q.—Are The Old Testament Laws Still to Be Followed?”
Galatians 3-4:7; 5:1-6:2
What Law?
- The New Testament uses the word “law” in a couple of ways:
- The Old Testament (Romans 3:19)
- The Law of Moses (Matthew 5:17; Luke 24:44)
- Mosaic Law (Law of Moses)
- First five books of the Bible
- Pentateuch
- Torah
- First five books of the Bible
Why the Law?
- To set apart the people of Israel from the world and to God.
“You shall be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be Mine.” Leviticus 20:26
- To communicate God’s standard for holiness and pleasing Him. (Exodus 20:3-17)
“As a wild beast is tied to keep it from running amuck, so the Law bridles mad and furious man to keep him from running wild.”—Martin Luther
- To reveal our sin. (Romans 3:20; 5:20; 7:7; Galatians 3:19)
Free From the Law . . .
- What the Law pointed to has been fulfilled in Christ.
“So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons (and daughters) of God, through faith.” Galatians 3:24-26
- Righteousness is not received by Law keeping, but by gospel grace.
“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” Romans 10:4
- I do not strive to do right so that I might be made righteous. (legalism)
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In Christ I am made righteous and desire to do what is right and pleasing to God.
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We are not under the Mosaic Law, but under the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2; Matthew 22:34-40)
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Freedom from the Law does not mean freedom to sin. (Romans 6:15)
“F.A.Q. (Frequently Avoided Questions): Is It Right to Judge?
Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 6:37-42
What Does Scripture Say . . .?
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Self-righteous judgment
- Self-righteous judgment is when I look beyond my faults and flaws to expose and criticize your faults and flaws. (Matthew 7:1-4; Luke 18:9-14; John 8:1-11)
- Harsh
- Destructive
- Exaggerated
- Self-righteous judgment is often an attempt to divert attention from our personal faults and flaws.
- Self-righteous judgment is when I look beyond my faults and flaws to expose and criticize your faults and flaws. (Matthew 7:1-4; Luke 18:9-14; John 8:1-11)
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Godly judgment and discernment
- Godly judgment and discernment is to love you enough to address, with humility and gentleness, that which is not consistent with the faith you profess to possess. (Matthew 7:15-21; 2 Samuel 12:1-14)
- Speaks truth with grace. (Matthew 18:15-17; Ephesians 4:15)
- Exalts God’s call to holiness without an attitude of “holier than you.” (1 Corinthians 5:11-13)
- Addresses with Christ-like humility. (Matthew 7:5)
- I willingly admit and deal with the sin in my life before addressing the sin in your life.
- Seeks to build up, not destroy a person.
- Displays gentleness. (Galatians 6:1)
- Godly judgment and discernment is to love you enough to address, with humility and gentleness, that which is not consistent with the faith you profess to possess. (Matthew 7:15-21; 2 Samuel 12:1-14)
Receiving Correction With Grace . . .
- Be receptive and teachable. (Proverbs 27:6)
- Am I willing to be held accountable and discipled?
- Am I willing to let others I trust speak into my life?
- Consider with brutal honesty what is spoken.
- Is this true of me?
- Accept the truth and correction as God’s gift of grace.
- Am I receiving this as God’s desire to make me more like Christ?
- Am I willing to be held accountable and discipled?
“Not Home Yet: Grace to the Humble”
1 Peter 5:1-14
Humility in Leadership . . .
Strong leadership is always clothed in humility.
- Leaders within the church should lead willingly without selfish
- Leaders within the church should lead eagerly with an intense desire.
- Leaders within the church should lead in a way that exemplifies
Humility in Following . . .
Submitting to leaders within the church, who are submitting to Christ, is for your edification and God’s glory.
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give account. Let them do this with joy and not groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” Hebrews 13:17
Finding Grace In Humility and Opposition in Pride . . .
- Humility is to be the defining essence of a Christ-follower. (v.5)
- Humility is rightly assessing our lives appropriately in light of who God is.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
- Humility is the door through which grace (v. 5)
- At my most honest place, God pours out undeserved grace that gives me a living hope of the praise and exaltation of Christ. (1 Peter 1:7)
- Humility is entrusting your life to the One who is worthy of our confident
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God . . .casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” (v.6,7)
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Pride is contending for supremacy with God, and lifting up our hearts against
- God’s opposition is immediate and constant against the one who sets his heart against God.
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Pride is the weapon of choice that Satan uses most effectively to devour and destroy.
Responding with Humility . . .
- Be sober-minded.
- Be watchful.
- Resist the enemy.
- Stand firm in your faith.
Sustaining Grace . . .
- God’s grace restores.
- God’s grace strengthens.
- God’s grace gives us resolve to not give up.
- God’s grace our foundation.
“Not Home Yet: Suffering Well”
1 Peter 4:12-19
4 Truths About Suffering As a Christ-follower . . .
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Suffering should never be surprising but expected. (v.12; 1 Peter 1:6-7)
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Suffering happens because you are identified with Christ. (v.13)
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on My account. Rejoice and be glad, for you reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12
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Suffering is a result of the Spirit of God at work in and through you, or as a result of disobedience. (vv.14-15)
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If you suffer, let it be for the sake of righteousness.
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Suffering exalts the person and work of Christ. (v.16)
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Suffering is not an indication of God’s absence, but rather His purifying presence. (v.17; Malachi 3:1-4)
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Suffering passes through the sovereign hands of a faithful God who is worthy of our confident (v.19)
My Response to Suffering for the sake of Christ . . .
- Even though I walk through trials that bring about suffering, I will continue to do good so that Christ might be made much of.
1 Peter 2:18-25
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For the sake of the Kingdom.
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In light of the Cross.
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Overflowing with Grace.
Works Cited/For Further Study
Faithmapping by Daniel Montgomery & Mike Cosper
The ESV Study Bible
The NIV Application Commentary: 1 Peter by Scot McKnight
“How to Deal with a Bad Boss” by Dan Doriani
“Mindful of God While Suffering Unjustly” by Sam Storms
Discussion Questions
- Why is this text in 1 Peter 2:18-25 important to us in our culture today?
- What does it mean to say that our “Identity” should precede our “Activity”?
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In what ways are we able to respectfully submit to unjust bosses for the sake of the Kingdom? In light of the Cross? Overflowing with Grace?
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Are there any ways you have not been submitting well to a boss/leader/authority?
“Beyond the Grave: The Truth About Heaven”
2 Corinthians 4:7-5:10 Romans 8:18-25
2 Peter 3:1-14
Revelation 21:9-22:7
Longing for Something More . . .
- We do not lose confident hope in what’s to come because God is faithful to His promise.
“He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.” 2 Corinthians 5:5
“And this is the promise that He made to us—eternal life.” 1 John 2:25
“But according to His promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” 2 Peter 3:13
- Your groaning for Heaven will always be proportional to your understanding of what’s to come.
“For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling . . .” 2 Corinthians 5:1-2
- The more you know about where you are going, and the more you are assured of its arrival, the more eager you are in your preparation. (Romans 8:18-25)
- A desired future that is certain always affects your present
What Awaits Those Who Are His . . . (Revelation 21:9-22:7)
- God’s presence.
“For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12
“They will see His face . . .” Revelation 22:4
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The New Jerusalem
- The dwelling place of God. (Revelation 21:3)
- A radiant city (Revelation 21:9-14)
- An incomparable (Revelation 21:15-27)
- An everlasting (Revelation 22:5)
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The New Earth
- A greater version of Eden.
- Millennial reign foreshadows something even more perfect to come. (Isaiah 65:17-66:2; Amos 9:11-15; Luke 1:32-33; Zecheriah 8:3; Revelation 21:1-4)
- God’s people
- A greater version of Eden.
“ . . . and they will be His people . . .” Revelation 21:3
“But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” Revelation 21:27
Living in Light of What’s to Come . . .
- In our waiting we should live with an eager anticipation of His coming and for His glory.
- Live a life pursuing holiness.
- Grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ.
- Make known the gospel and the coming of Christ.
- We should live with a sense of urgency for the proclamation of the gospel. (Spurgeon quote)
Beyond the Grave . . .
What gives you hope beyond the grave?
Defining “Heaven” . . .
The apostle Paul makes mention of 3 levels of heaven: (2 Corinthians 12:1-4)
- The first heaven was considered to be the sky or firmament. (Gen. 1:6-8)
- The second heaven was the place of the stars, planets, and celestial (Genesis 1:14-18)
- The third heaven was a place Paul referred to as “paradise,” and heard things which wasbeyond what he could say or fully comprehend. (2 Corinthians 12:1-4)
Heaven Now . . .
- Every spirit/soul of every person who dies in Christ immediately enters into the presence of God.
“We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:6-8
“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.” Philippians 1:21-23
- The current heaven Scripture speaks of will pass away, along with the earth, but something greater is coming.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.” Matthew 24:35
“ . . . for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.” Revelation 21:1
Heaven To Come . . .(Revelation 21:1-8)
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God will make all things new.
- There will be a new heaven and a new earth.
- The new heaven and new earth will not be created from nothing, but will be resurrected and restored.
- There will be a new heaven and a new earth.
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We will have a resurrected, glorified body that is fit for our eternal home.
“ But our citizenship is in heaven . . .” Philippians 3:20a
- We will never again know the curse of sin.
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall their be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4
- God will forever dwell among us, and we will forever dwell with Him. (Rev. 21:3)
- What makes Heaven so glorious is forever being in the presence of the One who, by His grace, created us for Himself and saved us to Himself.
Our Confident Hope . . .
To base your eternal destiny on an assumption rather than an assurance is to live in fear of what’s to come.
“Beyond the Grave: The Destiny of Hell”
2 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Defining “Hell” . . .
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Sheol/Hades
- “Sheol” and “Hades” are the Hebrew and Greek words, respectively, that refer to the realm of the dead or departed soul/spirit. (Gen. 37:35; Job 14:13; Ps. 6:5; Ps. 16:10; Ps. 88:3; Isaiah 38:10; Ps. 9:7; Ps. 31:17; Ps. 49:14)
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Tartarus—Greek word that refers to the place reserved for fallen angels and demonic (2 Peter 2:4)
- Also points to the abyss or bottomless pit. (Revelation 20:1-4; Revelation 9:1-6)
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Gehenna—In the New Testament, this Greek word refers to the valley south of Jerusalem where some of the ancient Israelites would sacrifice their children to the Canaanite god Molech. (2 Chronicles 28:3; 33:6; Jeremiah 7:31, 19:2-6); burning of trash from Jerusalem; fires constantly burning.
- Jesus referenced “hell” as Gehenna; a place of torment, suffering and agony.
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Lake of fire
- Final destiny for Satan, his demons, and all whose names are not written in the book of life. (Revelation 20:14-15)
So What Happens at Death for an Unbeliever . . .?
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When a person who has rejected Christ dies, their soul/spirit is immediately separated from Christ and held in Hades to await final judgment before the Great White Throne. (Luke 16:22-23)
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At the end of the millennial reign (1,000 years) of Christ, there will be the Great White Throne judgment, where all who rejected Christ will be judged and thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:7-15)
The Reality of Hell . . .
- It is a literal place of conscious suffering and torment of body and soul.
(Matthew 10:28; Matthew 22:13)
- It is a place of utter darkness. (Matthew 22:13)
- It is a place where a person is under the wrath of God. (Matthew 25:46)
- It is a place where a person is separated from the presence and love of God. (2 Thessalonians 1:9)
- It is a place of eternal (2 Thessalonians 1:9; Revelation 20:10; Revelation 14:11; Matthew 25:41)
The Gospel’s Hope . . .
- Jesus Christ willingly took our place, receiving the full wrath of God for our sin, so that we might be saved by His grace from sin’s death grip and Hell’s eternal agony, to the incomparable and imperishable inheritance of the glorious Christ.
My Response Is . . .?
“Beyond the Grave: The Afterlife”
Three Truths About the Afterlife . . .
- Although it is destined for all to die physically, it is by God’s design that all will live forever
“The tree of life was in the midst of the garden (Eden), and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” Genesis 2:9
“He drove out the man, and at the east of the garden of Eden He placed the cherubim and a flaming sword that turned every way to guard the way to the tree of life.” Genesis 3:24
“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13
- One of two destinies awaits every person who dies.
- Your soul/spirit immediately leaves you physical body and is ushered into the presence of Christ, or is separated from Christ, for eternity.
- For true Christ-followers the assurance is Heaven.
- Your soul/spirit immediately leaves you physical body and is ushered into the presence of Christ, or is separated from Christ, for eternity.
(John 14:1-4; Matthew 25:46)
- For all who reject Christ the assurance is Hell (Hades) and ultimately the lake of fire.
“Then He (Jesus) will say to those on His left (unrighteous), ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” Matthew 25:41
“And these (the unrighteous) will go away into eternal punishment . . .” Matthew 25:46
- Jesus affirms resurrection and eternal life. (John 11:17-27)
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.” John 6:47
“As for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?’ He is not the God of the dead, but of the living. You are quite wrong.” Mark 12:26-27
“Beyond the Grave”
Acts 2:22-36
Hope Beyond the Grave . . .
- Jesus has defeated the enemy you could never defeat.
- Death is a reality that we would like to ignore, but we cannot escape.
“ . . . and so death spread to all men because all sinned . . .” Romans 5:12
- You cannot defeat death, but you can surrender to the One who has.
“But God released Him (Jesus) from the horrors of death and raised Him back to life, for death could not keep Him in its grip.” Acts 2:24 (New Living Translation)
“This Jesus, God raised up, and of that we are all witnesses.” Acts 2:32
- Jesus will ultimately destroy death forever.
“The last enemy to be destroyed is death.” 1 Corinthians 15:26
“ . . . that through death He (Jesus) might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.” Hebrews 2:14,15
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4
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By way of the cross and His resurrection, Jesus has sealed the destiny of death.
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God gives life to all who surrender to the resurrected Savior, Jesus Christ.
“ . . . who (Jesus) abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel . . .” 2 Timothy 1:10
“For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.” 1 Corinthians 15:22
“Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him.” Romans 6:8
The All Important Question . . .
What is your hope beyond the grave?
Pilate asked the all-important question, "Why?"
1st Group: Caiaphas Group (John 11:45-53)
Fear: If I surrender/abandon my life to Jesus, I will lose control.
2nd Group: Judas Group (Mark 14:10-11)
Fear: Jesus may not follow MY Plans
Pilate have asked Jesus, "Why? Why should I crucify you?" (John 10:18)
Reason #1: The Purpose
Reason #2: The Plan
Reason #3: The Promise
“Uncommon—Surrendering To and Pursuing An Uncommon Savior”
Colossians 3; 1 Peter 2:21-25
If you are going to have an uncommon marriage it will take an uncommon man and an uncommon woman surrendering to and pursuing an uncommon Savior.
Surrendering . . .
Your journey to becoming an uncommon man and an uncommon woman begins with surrendering to an uncommon Savior.
Pursuing . . .
By grace, God has pursued us. For His glory and our good we pursue His Son.
- To pursue Christ is to seek (Colossians 3:1-2)
- As we seek Christ, we are conformed to His likeness. (Colossians 3:12-17)
What If . . . ?
Let your life be an expression of the gospel of grace as you endure unjust suffering. (1 Peter 2:1-3; 2:21-23)
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Follow the example of Christ.
- When slandered, don’t slander.
- When wounded, don’t be malicious.
- When it’s lacking, don’t be envious of another.
- When it’s difficult, don’t be deceptive/manipulative.
- When reviled, don’t revile in return.
- When threatened, don’t threaten in return.
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Entrust your life to the God who judges justly. (1 Peter 2:23)
So That . . .
So that your spouse may be won to Christ or encouraged to pursue Christ.
Overseer of My Soul . . .
As a follower of Christ, Jesus shepherds me in the way I should go and oversees my soul. (1 Peter 2:25)
Uncommon—An Uncommon Man”
1 Peter 3:7; Ephesians 5:25-33
An Uncommon Man . . .
- An uncommon man is a man who seeks to understand his wife.
“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way . . .” 1 Peter 3:7
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Know your wife.
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An uncommon man is a man who honors his wife as priceless and highly valued.
“ . . . showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel . . .” 1 Peter 3:7
“Outdo one another in showing honor.” Romans 12:10
- Honor your wife by loving and caring for her.
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loves the church and gave Himself up for her . . .” Ephesians 5:25
“For no one every hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church . . .” Ephesians 5:29
- Honor your wife by being gentle and not harsh with her.
“Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.” Colossians 3:19
- Honor your wife by treating her as an heir of God’s grace.
“ . . . since they are heirs with you of the grace of life . . .” 1 Peter 3:7
- An uncommon man is a man who accepts the responsibility of leading his wife well.
- As a husband, how will you present your wife to God?
Making It Practical . . .
What could I do to make you feel more loved?
- What could I do to make you feel more respected?
- What could I do to make you feel more understood?
- What could I do to make you feel more secure?
- What could I do to make you feel more confident in our future direction?
- What attribute would you like me to develop?
- What attribute would you like for me to help you develop?
- What achievement in my life would bring you the greatest joy?
- What would indicate to you that I really desire to be more Christ-like?
- What mutual goal would you like to see us accomplish?
(Questions by Tom Elliff)
“Uncommon: An Uncommon Woman”
1 Peter 3:1-6
If you are going to have an uncommon marriage it will take an uncommon man and an uncommon woman surrendering to and pursuing an uncommon Savior.
Living As A Sojourner . . .
Regardless if your sojourning is enjoyable or difficult, in all things it is to be purposeful in pointing people to Christ.
Even in marriage we find ourselves as exiles and sojourners who are not home yet.
- For His glory (exaltation)
- For our good (sanctification)
An Uncommon Wife . . .
- She is an uncommon woman who humbly submits, for the Lord’s sake, to her husband for the purpose of winning him to Christ. (v.1)
- By conduct, not by words.
- To speak the gospel requires words alone, but to live out the gospel requires humble surrender.
- By conduct, not by words.
Uncommon Conduct . . .
- A reverent fear and worshipful awe of God. (1 Peter 1:17, 2:17, 3:6)
- A genuine Christ-like humility. (1 Peter 5:5-7)
- A sincere Christ-like love. (1 Peter 2:23)
- A gentle and quiet (1 Peter 3:4)
- A steadfast trust in a sovereign (1 Peter 2:23)
Let your husband eat of the fruit of the Spirit that God cultivates in you as you spend time daily in God’s presence. (Galatians 5:22-23)
"Uncommon”
Genesis 2:4-3:16; 1 Peter 3:1-7
“There has never been a generation whose general view of marriage is high enough. The chasm between the biblical vision of marriage and the common human vision is now, and has always been, gargantuan . . . Some cultures . . . like our own, have such low, casual, take-it-or-leave-it attitudes toward marriage as to make the biblical vision seem ludicrous to most people.” John Piper, This Momentary Marriage
Two Significant Questions . . .
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What does an uncommon marriage look like?
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An uncommon marriage is gospel-centered, not self-centered.
- Uncommon grace.
- Uncommon love.
- Uncommon forgiveness.
- Uncommon trust.
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What does it take to have an uncommon marriage?
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If you are going to have an uncommon marriage it will take an uncommon man and an uncommon woman surrendering to and pursuing an uncommon Savior.
My Response to Be Uncommon . . .
“Not Home Yet: Living Under Authority”
1 Peter 2:13-17
Doing Good and Glorifying God . . .
- Submit to those in authority. (v. 13-14)
- It is by God’s sovereign
- To resist is to resist what God has appointed. (Romans 13:1-7)
- It is for God’s ultimate glory. (v.12, 13)
- It is by God’s sovereign
The Exception . . .
When the demands of men contradict the commands of God.
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3 Biblical examples:
- Daniel 3 (Shadrah, Meshach, Abednego)
- Daniel 6 (Daniel)
- Acts 4 and 5 (Peter and John)
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Live as people who are free. (v. 15-16)
- We are not exempt from submitting to authority, but are to be examples as servants of God for His glory.
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Honor
- Every person is created in the image of God.
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Love the community of believers.
- “for a sincere brotherly love . . . love one another earnestly from a pure heart.” (1 Peter 1:22)
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Fear
- Our ultimate loyalty belongs to God.
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Honor the emperor.
“Not Home Yet: Sojourners and A Sovereign God”
1 Peter 2:4-12
As You Come to Him . . .
When you taste the goodness of God by drinking deeply from His word, He is transforming you by His power to be a temple of His presence. (v.4-5)
- The Spirit of God is doing the work in you so that you might offer to God spiritual sacrifices that are pleasing to Him through Christ.
- Instead of malice, you offer a sacrifice of unconditional love
- Instead of deceit, you offer a sacrifice of truth
- Instead of envy, you offer a sacrifice of joyful contentment
- Instead of slander, you offer a sacrifice of encouragement
Cornerstone Or Stumbling Block . . .
Your spiritual formation is only as sure as your spiritual foundation.
- A life always takes the shape of its cornerstone.
- To those who believe in Christ, there is no shame and there is much honor. (v.6-7)
- To those who do not believe in Christ, He is an offense. (v.7-8)
“They stumble because they disobey the word as they were destined to do.”
As the elect exiles in this world, our hope rests in the truth that God sovereignly reigns over all, even those who oppose Him.
Make Much of Christ . . .
By God’s mercy and grace we have been chosen so that we might proclaim the goodness of God in Christ. (v.9-10)
- He called us out of darkness.
- He gave us a new identity.
- He extended to us great mercy.
As a sojourner, live in such a way that the world’s accusations about you fall short of the Christ-like character and conduct seen clearly at work in and through you. (v.11-12)
- Fight to not give in to the desires of the flesh.
- Keep your conduct honorable.
“Not Home Yet: Tasting God’s Goodness”
1 Peter 2:1-3
“So” What?
- Because you have been born again, love one another continually from a pure heart.
- Just as God demonstrated His love for us while we were sinners, as followers of Christ, we are to love others.
Take Out The Trash . . .
- Because you have been born again, live differently than the world. (Colossians 3:1-11)
- Put away all malice.
- Put away all deceit.
- Put away hypocrisy.
- Put away envy.
- Put away all slander.
Crave the Word, Taste God’s Goodness . . .
- Crave the truth of God’s Word. (Colossians 3:12-16)
- When we consume God’s Word, we taste God’s goodness.
“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him!” Psalm 34:8
- The more I develop a taste for God’s goodness, the more of a distaste I will develop for sin.
- Your outward conduct is a reflection of your inward cravings.
“Not Home Yet: Pursuing Holiness”
1 Peter 1:13-25
Setting Your Hope Fully On His Grace . . .
- Guard your mind with the truth aggressively.
- Don’t align yourself with the pattern of the world’s thinking.
“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.” Romans 12:2
- Understand the truth clearly.
- Distorted thinking leads to disobedient (Ephesians 4:17-24)
- Be aware of the enemy’s deception.
- Distorted thinking leads to disobedient (Ephesians 4:17-24)
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
Living in Awe of a Holy God . . .
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As an obedient child of God, do not be conformed to the passions and patterns of your former life.
- Truthful thinking leads to a confident hope producing a life that passionately pursues holiness. (1 Peter 1:15-16)
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As an obedient child of God, live in reverent fear of God the Father.
- We have been ransomed with that which is infinitely more costly and valuable than earthly riches. (1 Peter 1:18-19)
Loving One Another Continually . . .
- Loving one another is the overflow of a life pursuing and living out the character of God’s holiness.
- In obeying the truth of the gospel you will love others because the gospel abides in you. (1 Peter 1:22-23)
“Not Home Yet: Living Hope”
1 Peter 1:3-12
Biblical Truths that Should Shape Our Present Reality . . .
- I am chosen by God.
- By the sovereign grace and mercy of God I have been chosen by God to be one who is set apart by His Spirit, to live in obedience to Christ displaying a life that has been rescued by God’s great salvation.
- God initiates a relationship because of His mercy. (v. 3)
- By the sovereign grace and mercy of God I have been chosen by God to be one who is set apart by His Spirit, to live in obedience to Christ displaying a life that has been rescued by God’s great salvation.
“ . . . according to the foreknowledge of God the Father . . .”
“ . . . He has caused us to be born again . . .”
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So that I might proclaim the excellencies of Him who called me out of darkness into His marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9-10)
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I have been born again to a living hope.
- I have a living hope because I have fully surrendered myself to a risen Savior who has overcome my greatest enemies, sin and death.
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I have a living hope because Christ, who is alive, lives in
“To them (the saints), God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27
- I have an inheritance that is out of this world.
- My inheritance is Christ; He is the treasure of heaven.
“’The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in Him.’” Lamentations 3:24
- Imperishable—will not decay or become corrupt (Matthew 6:19-21)
- Undefiled—pure and cannot be tainted or flawed
- Unfading—enduring and lasting
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Secured—certain; reserved; guaranteed (Ephesians 1:13-14)
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I am guarded by God until the day of Christ.
- My hope doesn’t rest in my strength to guard my faith, but in knowing that I am guarded by the sovereign grace of a merciful faithful
“This Is Christmas: It’s About the Gospel”
Matthew 1:1-25
Family Tree, Broken Limbs . . .
Matthew wants his audience, including you, to understand the hopeful message of the gospel is the reason why Jesus came.
- The reality of humanity is that sin separates us from the one true holy God, but the hope of the gospel is that Jesus has put on the flesh of humanity to reconcile us to holy God.
“And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him . . .” Colossians 1:21-22
- The point of the gospel is not to make you feel guilty for sin, but to help you see that you areguilty of sin and in need of a Savior.
- God has graciously provided the way to relationship with Him through Jesus.
The God Who Intervened . . .
The gospel story is one of God intervening in our lives by stepping down to where we are and initiating a relationship with us not based on what we have done or are doing, but what He has done through Jesus Christ.
- An unlikely entrance into this world.
“ . . . for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit . . . Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son . . .” Matthew 1:20, 23
- An invitation to the most unlikely people for an unlikely event.
- “ . . . for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21
- An ushering in of an incomparable
“ . . . and they shall call His name Immanuel.” Matthew 1:23
The Gospel of Christmas . . .
The gospel of Christmas is evidence of true love that engages and embraces the unlovely and the unlikely for no other reasons than unconditional love and amazing grace.
“This Is Christmas”
Mark 7:1-9; Luke 2
The Good About Traditions . . .
- They can bring families together.
- They are memorable.
- They can be fun.
- They can pass down family values and leave a legacy.
Testing the Traditions . . .
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Do our traditions deviate from Jesus?
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When how we celebrate overshadows whom we celebrate, we’ve missed the point of the celebration.
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Do our traditions elevate Jesus?
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When how we celebrate makes much of Jesus we are more likely to remember the reason we celebrate.
Something to Hang Your Stocking On . . .
- Redeem that which was empty of meaning.
- Begin new traditions that elevate Jesus and the gospel. (Luke 2:10-11)
“Gratitude”
Luke 17:11-19
A Savior’s Grace and A Leper’s Gratitude . . .
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He was thankful because he once stood at a distance, but now was able to fall at Jesus’ feet.
- We have much to be thankful for because we once stood at a distance, but through Christ we are brought near.
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He was thankful because he once was condemned, but now grace has been shown to him.
- We have much to be thankful for because we were once condemned, but now the grace of God has been demonstrated toward us. (Romans 5:8)
Grace and Gratitude . . .
- Grace and gratitude are inseparable.
- There is no expression of gratitude without recognizing that we are the undeservingrecipients of glorious grace.
- We are not entitled to grace, but deserving of wrath.
- There is no expression of gratitude without recognizing that we are the undeservingrecipients of glorious grace.
Recognizing God’s grace . . .
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All I have, I did not give and do not deserve.
- It is only by God’sgrace.
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All I need, I cannot give and do not deserve.
- It is only by God’sgrace.
Recognizing God’s grace is acknowledging that He is the source of all my provision and I am undeserving.
My Response . . .
When I recognize that all I have and all I need are only by God’s glorious gift of grace, the appropriate response is worship fueled by an attitude of thanksgiving. (Luke 17:15)
This Is My Story”
Acts 17:16-34
Why Tell My Story . . . ?
- Because everyone matters to God.
- Is your heart broken over the lostness of those around you?
- When the lostness of people affects me personally, it moves me to action.
- Is your heart broken over the lostness of those around you?
“So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout persons, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there.” (Acts 17:17)
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What part of my world can I impact with the gospel?
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Because people are seeking a God to worship. (v. 18-21)
“We wish to know what these things mean.” (v.20)
“It is easy to see that you and I have been created to worship. We’re flat-out desperate for it. From sports fanaticism to celebrity tabloids to all the other strange sorts of voyeurisms now normative in our culture, we evidence that we were created to look at something beyond ourselves and marvel at it, desire it, like it with zeal, and love it with affection. Our thoughts, our desires, and our behaviors are always oriented around something, which means we are always worshiping — ascribing worth to — something. If it’s not God, we are engaging in idolatry. But either way, there is no way to turn the worship switch in our hearts off.” The Explicit Gospel, Matt Chandler
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Your story points people to the God they are seeking.
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Because telling your story brings clarity to confusion. (v. 22-34)
- Your story can help answer questions people have about God.
“This Is My Story”
Acts 22:1-21; Acts 13:13-51
Telling Your Story . . .
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Know your story.
- Write it down so that you are able to articulate
- My life before (v.3-5)
- Me encounter with Christ. (v.6-11)
- My life as a follower of Christ. (v. 12-21)
- Share it with someone you trust.
- Write it down so that you are able to articulate
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Pray for God to open your eyes to see the opportunity to share your story.
- People who are seeking, and asking questions.
- People who are facing difficulties in life.
- Moments that are obvious divine appointments.
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Engage the moment.
- Don’t miss the moment because eternity is at stake.
- Acts 13:13-51
- Don’t miss the moment because eternity is at stake.
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Trust God to speak through you.
“Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.” Exodus 4:12
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Listen to what God is speaking to you before you expect Him to speak through
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Leave the door open.
“As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath.” Acts 13:42
“Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, ‘We will hear you again about this.’” Acts 17:32
“This Is My Story – Part II”
Acts 8:26-40
- Philip was in a position where he was able to hear God speak.
“And an angel of the Lord said to Philip . . .” (v.26)
“And the Spirit said to Philip . . .” (v.29)
Implication: I need to position myself so I can hear God speak clearly.
- Philip surrendered in obedience to the leading of God’s Spirit.
“Rise and go toward the south, to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza. This is a desert place. And he rose and went.” (v.26-27)
“And the Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go over and join this chariot.’ So Philip ran to him . . .” (v.29-30)
Implication: I need to be willing to follow the Spirit’s leading.
- Philip encountered a man who was seeking to know God.
“And there was an Ethiopian . . .” (v.27)
- God will always lead you where He is already at work.
Implication: There is always someone I can share my story with.
- Philip was eager to share the story of the gospel.
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.” (v.35)
Implication: I need to unashamedly tell the story.
Getting Personal . . .
- Are you placing yourself in a position to hear from God?
- Are you surrendering in obedience to the leading of God’s Spirit?
- Are you willing to go where the Spirit is leading you to go?
- Are you willing to do what the Spirit is leading you to do?
- Are you unashamedly sharing your story with those God brings into your path?
MATT 9:35-38
As we stand before the Lord the conversation may go something like this.
“What did you do to share My gospel with the world?”
- OUR EYES MUST SEE (v 36)
Jesus saw the multitudes! “Seeing the people”
Jesus saw their needs: “distressed and downcast”
Pain: Sick (Mat14:14); Blind (Jn9:1-41); Demon (Mk9:25).
Sorrow: Lk7:13 widow at Nain whose son had died.
Hunger: Matt 15:32 feeding the 4,000.
Loneliness: Mk 1:41 the leper Jesus healed.
Jesus saw their lost condition: “Like sheep without a shepherd.”
- OUR HEARTS MUST FEEL (V36)
“He felt compassion for them.”
If we really think & hear, we will feel.
Lam 3:51 “My eyes bring pain to my soul, because of all the daughters of my city.”
Jesus wept over the multitudes (Lk 19:41-42).
III. OUR LIPS MUST SPEAK (Rom 10:14-15)
The Jews of Paul’s day:
Saw no need for salvation. (10:1)
They were zealous for God. (10:2)
They were proud and self-righteous. (10:3)
Paul posed a series of questions to them and to us.
How will they call on Him?
How will they believe in Him?
How will they hear without a preacher?
How will they preach unless they are sent?
Here is an urgent plea for Christians to share our story.
CONCLUSION
We must: See with our eyes; Feel with our hearts; Speak with our lips;
Then we will boldly share our story with a lost world.
“This Is My Story - Part I"
John 9:1-41
As a follower of Christ you have a ______________ to tell.
Every story has a _______________ theme. (John 9:1-2)
- We are all ____________ people in need of a _________________.
- The blind man was born blind.
- We are born __________________ blind.
- The blind man was a beggar and in great need.
- We are ____________ and in great ____________ of that which we cannot give ourselves.
- The blind man was separated and ostracized because of his blindness.
- We are ___________________ from God because of sin.
- The blind man was born blind.
Your story is ultimately ____________ story. (John 9:3)
- It’s a story about how God is ________________ by ________________ a life that is _______________ by ________.
- It’s a story that is ____________________.
- It’s a story ______________ telling.
The Story of God in You . . .
A radically _______________ life brings God the greatest ____________.
- God wants to use your story to make much of ______________.
A radically changed life raises ________________ by a watching world and offers __________________ to share the story. (vv. 8-12)
“Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?” John 9:8
“What do you say about Him (Jesus) since He has opened your eyes?” John 9:17
“Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” John 9:19
“What did He (Jesus) do to you? How did He open your eyes?” John 9:26
There is no rational _________________ for a radically ________________ life in Christ. (vv.13-34)
- What Jesus Christ does in the life of an individual might be _______________ but it cannot be _________________.
The point of our story as Christ-followers is . . .
- I was __________, but Jesus Christ has given me __________.
- I was lost, but Jesus Christ found me.
- I was ___________, but Jesus Christ has made me _____________.
- I was hopeless, but Jesus Christ has given me hope.
- I was broken, but Jesus Christ has healed me.
- I was _____________, but Jesus Christ has ___________________ me.
- I was held captive, but Jesus Christ has set me ______________.
Questions for Discussion . . .
- What is your story?
- Take 5 minutes and share your story with your small group. You can use this as a guide: Your life before Christ, How you recognized your need for Christ, Your life now that you know Christ.
- Is the witness of Christ so compelling in your life that others want to know your story?
- Are you willing to share your story even though you may be cast out?
- What are some things that may be keeping you from sharing your story?
Why Marriage Ministry?
1) To _________ or ______________ the _________ message to marriages through the making of ______________.
Eph. 5:25
2) To produce a ______________ effect on our __________ and ___________ ministries as families are only as __________ as marriages. Prov. 14:26
3) A couple who may ________ walk through the front doors of our church may be __________ to Crossgate and the _______ _______ of Jesus Christ by the _______ they are feeling in a strained ____________ relationship. Matt. 11:28
4) Creates __________ opportunities for trained Crossgate couples to ______ other couples at a time when they are ___________. 1 John 3:18; Gal. 5:13-14
Join with us as Pastor Shawn discusses what God has done over the past year and some of the exciting opportunities and changes that God will be revealing and accomplishing over the next twelve months!
We invite you to join us for our 2nd Spiritual Renewal service featuring guest speaker, Bill Elliff. Bill's teaching tonight is on our need for personal revival, letting God have His way in all facets of our lives.
Join us as we welcome guest speaker, Bill Elliff as we begin our special "Spiritual Renewal" services (September 20th - 22nd). We invite you to listen as God leads us to prepare and change our hearts as we seek His will.
This is a rebroadcast of the teaching, "The King and His Bride" from Pastor Shawn's series, "The Final Countdown" - This service was originally broadcast on August 7th, 2011.
“What In the World - The Advance of the Gospel”
Acts 4:1-31; 5:17-42; Philippians 1:12-14
From the Table to the World . . .
“For as often as you eat this bread, and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” 1 Corinthians 11:26
· When we come to the table we remember His sacrifice for our sin.
· My reflective remembrance should lead to me to unashamed proclamation of His gospel.
o Personal faith is not meant to be a private faith.
Gospel Advance . . .
Remember what the climate of the culture was as the apostles took this gospel to the nations. There was much persecution. (Acts 4:1-31; 5:17-42)
· Persecution paves the way for proclamation of the gospel. (Philippians 1:12-14)
· The gospel has always thrived in times of difficulty and tribulation.
o Persecution has never hindered the gospel, only facilitated its increase.
2 Timothy 3:10-17;
According to Scripture, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Timothy 3:12; John 15:18-19; John 16:1-4; John 17:14; Luke 21:12; John 15:20
· Evil people will increase. These are the wicked. (2 Timothy 3:2-4)
· Imposters will increase. These are the pretenders. (2 Timothy 3:5-8)
“ . . . having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power.” 2 Timothy 3:5
Suffering As A Follower of Christ . . .
· Suffering should not be surprising, but expected. (1 Peter 4:12)
· Suffering happens because of our identity with Christ. (1 Peter 4:13)
“Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecutedMe, they will also persecute you . . .” John 15:20
· Suffering will expose the genuineness of your faith or the fakeness of your faith. (1 Peter 1:7; James 1:2-4; Mark 4:16-17)
How To Live In A World Gone Mad . . .
· Place your life under the authority of the word of God. (2 Timothy 3:14)
o Your position affects your perspective, and perspective shapes your understanding.
· Pursue holiness. (1 Peter 1:13-16)
o Pursuing holiness is the obedient response of a believer who is allowing the word of God and the Spirit of God to bring about spiritual transformation in his/her life.
· Pray continually. (1 Peter 4:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)
· Live courageously. (1 Peter 3:14-17)
· Speak truthboldly, yet respectfully.
· Love fervently. (1 Peter 4:8)
· Show generosity. (1 Peter 4:9)
· Serve willingly. (1 Peter 4:10)
· Trust God fully. (1 Peter 4:19)
“What In The World: The Judgment of God”
Romans 1:18-32
And God Gave Them Up . . .
- Scripture tells us God brings judgment upon a people who defy Him in disobedience.
o God gave them up to the lusts of their hearts. (Romans 1:24)
o God gave them up to dishonorable passions. (Romans 1:26)
o God gave them up to a debased mind. (Romans 1:28)
- Scripture tells us God will execute final judgment at the end of history.
“But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed.” Romans 2:5
- The judgment before the end of the age. (Revelation 6-16)
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The seals, trumpets, and bowls (Final 7 years)
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The judgment seat of Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Corinthians 3:10-15)
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All believers will be held accountable.
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The Great White Throne judgment. (Revelation 20:11-15)
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Scripture tells us that God poured out the wrath of His judgment on His Son, Jesus Christ, for all who would believe.
“But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by His blood much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God.” Romans 5:8-9
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears My words and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.” John 5:24
- Scripture tells us that for true believers, God’s judgment is not for our destruction but for discipline. (Hebrews 12:5-11)
“But when we (followers of Christ) are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.” 1 Corinthians 11:32
“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by Him. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and chastises every son whom He receives.” Hebrews 12:5-6
Why Judgment?
- The purpose of God’s judgment is to bring about repentance.
- Purify His bride, the Church (1 Peter 4:17)
-
For a believer, to refuse to repent of abiding sin there is discipline.
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Awaken the spiritually dead to life.
- For an unbeliever, to refuse to repent of sin and turn to Christ is destruction.
God’s Kindness . . .
To have the opportunity to hear the gospel and respond in obedience to the gospel is an expression of God’s kindness that is to lead you to repentance.
“ . . . God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance.” Romans 2:4
“What in the World?: A World Gone Mad”
1 Chronicles 12:32; 2 Timothy 3:1-9, 12-13
“ . . . the men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do . . .” 1 Chronicles 12:32
· How I view the world is critical to understanding what is going on in the world.
o Another way of saying that is my position affects my perspective, and perspective shapes understanding.
How We Often View the World . . .
· Looking through the lens of Scripture is not just a good idea when it comes to understanding what’s going on in the world; it’s imperative.
“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130
“For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6
· If I want to see the world properly, I must study the word diligently.
o It’s not about being a scholar of the word, but being a student of the word. (2 Timothy 2:15, 3:14-17)
What’s Really Going on in the World?
· What is going on in the world is everything the Bible claims will happen in the world.
o Eventually this world, this age, will come to an end.
§ Jesus validated it. (Matthew 24)
§ Scripture prophesies it.
· “And it will come about in the last days . . .” (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Micah)
· “Now the Spirit expressly says that in the later times . . .” (1 Timothy 4:1)
· “But understand this, that in the last days . . .” (2 Timothy 3:1)
o In the last days there will come times of difficulty. (2 Timothy 3:1)
§ 19 Characteristics of the last days that Paul mentions in 2 Timothy 3:2-5
· The world scene will get worse, before it gets better.
“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:12-13
But It’s Not The End of the Story . . .
The glorious hope we have is found when we look through the lens of Scripture.
Colossians 1:15-20, 24-29
We tend to find our identity in…
1. ________________ (____________)
Gospel Antidote: We don’t have to find our identity in __________ because Christ declared _______________
We tend to find our identity in…
2. ________________ (____________)
Gospel Antidote: We don’t have to find our identity in ____________ because in Christ _______________________
We tend to find our identity in…
3. ________________ (____________)
Gospel Antidote: We don’t have to find our identity in ___________ because Christ ________________________________
Works Cited and/or For Further Study:
- PROOF: Finding Freedom through the Intoxicating Joy of Irresistible Grace by Daniel Montgomery and Timothy Paul Jones
- New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp
- Article on “Filling Up What Is Lacking in Christ’s Affliction” by John Piper
- Articles on “Identity in Achievement”, “Identity in Spirituality”, “Identity in Relationship”, and “Identity in Creation” by Paul David Tripp
- The ESV Study Bible
Questions for Discussion…
- In what ways are you tempted to find your identity in achievements?
- In what ways are you tempted to find your identity in possessions?
- In what ways are you tempted to find your identity in relationships?
- Who in your life is struggling to find their identity in one of these areas? How could you share the Gospel with them this week?
- What difference does it make in our approach to life, whether we’re trying to change into who we should be vs. maturing into who we already are?
- How can we as a group help each other remember who we are in Christ?
“Amplify: Good Isn’t Good Enough”
Mark 10:17-31
Our Goodness is Never Enough . . .
Jesus is asked the most important question: “What must I do to be saved?” (v.17)
I must realize that I am a sinner.
· In other words, my goodness isn’t good enough. (Psalm 14:3)
o My goodness cannot save me.
o My knowledge of God’s word cannot save me.
o My religiosity cannot save me.
“Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” (v.20)
Jesus exposes what the rich young ruler missed.
“You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (v.21)
· He failed to see the idolatry in his life.
o He had made possessions his god.
I must repent of my sin and turn to Jesus for the forgiveness of sin.
· In other words, I grieve over my sin and turn to Christ for forgiveness.
o The rich man was grieved but not over his sin. (v.22)
“Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” Mark 10:22
It is a difficult thing for a people captivated by the world to surrender their pride and worldly riches for the incorruptible treasure and surpassing worth of knowing Christ.
· But, what seems impossible with man, is possible with God. (v.27)
I must place my full trust in Jesus Christ for my salvation. (And here’s why:)
· All I need is found in all He is. (vv. 28-31)
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” Jim Elliot
“Amplify: Glorious”
Mark 9:1-13
God and Mountaintops . . .
God chose to reveal Jesus as God in the flesh.
“And He was transfigured before them, and His clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them.” (Mark 9:2-3; John 1:14; Colossians 1:15-20; 2:9)
God demonstrated that Jesus is the Messiah and the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets, and God’s final and complete revelation.
“And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses . . .” (Mark 9:4)
God encouraged His Son, Jesus, as He resolutely set His face to go to Jerusalem where He would be crucified for the sins of the world.
“ . . . and they were talking with Jesus.” (Mark 9:4; Luke 9:51)
· The saving work of Christ would not have been completed apart from Jesus leaving the mountain and entering the shadowlands to embrace the cross.
· We are not to freeze-frame mountaintop experiences, but we are to walk daily in the presence of Christ and the activity of His redemptive work.
God affirmed what Peter had confessed about Jesus.
“This is My beloved Son; listen to Him.” (Mark 9:7; 1:11)
Christ and the Cross . . .
Before Christ would ultimately be glorified, He would be brutally crucified.
“And as they were coming down the mountain, He charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.” (Mark 9:9; Mark 8:31)
From Mountaintops to Valleys . . .
Following Christ involves bearing the cross before wearing the crown. (Mark 9:34)
Following Christ means leaving the mountaintop moments and engaging those who dwell in the shadows of death. (Luke 9:37)
· Know that Jesus is as present with us as we engage a broken world as He is with us in the moments of glorious and intimate worship.
Pastor Shawn continues his series in Mark 8:27 - 9:1 with the question that Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do people say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah . . .”
" . . . Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of themwhen he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
“Amplify: A Matter of the Heart”
Mark 7:1-23
Heart Issues . . .
The sin in our heart, not the stuff on our hands, is what defiles us and separates us from a holy God. (vv. 1-4, 14-16, 20-23)
· It’s not about our hands, but our hearts.
o As a true follower of Christ, our hands (what we do) will become conformed to the transforming work of the gospel in our heart.
The most sincere worship that pleases God is that which comes from a heart transformed by the gospel, not by meaningless lip service. (vv. 6-7)
“Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few.” Ecclesiastes 5:2
The great tragedy is exchanging the redemptive plan of God for the ruinous plan of man.(vv. 8-9)
· It is the pattern of sinful man.
o Both religious legalism (pursuing righteousness through actions) and religious liberalism (claiming grace but living how we want) are an offense to a holy God.
§ Legalism says, “I must do this.”
§ Liberalism says, “I can do this.”
§ Salvation says, “Jesus has done this.”
Questions for Discussion . . .
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How was the Pharisees and Scribes legalistic fervor for cleanliness an expression of pride? How are legalism and pride connected?
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What are some of our tendencies toward legalism (individually, corporately, etc.,)? How do you recognize them? How do you deal with those tendencies?
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What point do you think Jesus was making when He quoted Isaiah 29:13 in Mark 7:6-7?
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What are some traditions that you have experienced personally within religion (people, the church,etc.,) that are more traditions of men than commandments of God?
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I what ways do other religions focus on external actions? How is Christianity different?
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In what ways do you see religious liberalism being expressed in churches and in culture? In what ways are God’s commandments being exchanged for man’s desires?
Amplify: “Take Heart”
Mark 6:45-52
We can take heart because He is praying fervently on our behalf. – Mark 6:46 “Consequently, He is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him (Christ), since He (Jesus) always lives to make intercession for them.” – Hebrews 7:25
We can take heart because Jesus is with us. – Mark 6: 48, 51
We can take heart because He is I AM. – Mark 6:50
Questions for Discussion:
1) Discuss why you believe Jesus made His disciples get into the boat knowing that they would encounter a storm?
2) 1) Have you ever wondered what it was that Jesus was often praying about? Looking at Matthew 6: 9-13 and John 17, what do you believe were the focus of Jesus’ prayers? How does knowing Jesus is praying for you affect you? (Hebrews 7:25)
1) 2) Why do you believe God sends us into environments that He knows will test us? What is true about God, regarding His love for us, in those moments when we experience “storms”
2) 3) Share how God has not redirected storms that you’ve experienced, or may be experiencing, yet has led you or is leading you through them.
3) 4) When Jesus says, “I AM,” what is He saying to His disciples? What is He saying to us?
4) 5) Take a few moments as you wrap up and identify God’s character that He is revealing to you or that you are needing Him to reveal to you right now. For example, if you’re experiencing restlessness in your spirit, hold on to that God says, “I AM your peace.”
Pastor Shawn teaches on the feeding of the five thousand in Mark 6:30 – 44. Jesus is our provision and as Fathers we must recognize and depend upon this crucial truth. Jesus was moved with compassion at the sight of thousands of people who had made a great effort to hear His message of hope. And although Jesus is tired, and emotionally tired as well (remember He and his disciples had just learned of the beheading of John the Baptist.) His primary concern was the welfare of those people around Him.
The disciples had a responsibility to give to the people what Christ had given them. When God gives to us, we are to share faithfully with others, not hoard His gifts for ourselves. Fathers we can only love our children properly when we are loving Jesus Christ on a daily basis. Are our children seeing Jesus lead us in the way we love our spouse? Are they seeing Jesus provide for our physical needs? Are they seeing Jesus provide for our spiritual needs? How we treat our enemies?
Are our children seeing us guard our heart well?
Are our children seeing us guard our eyes well?
Are our children seeing us guard our words well?
Are our children seeing us guard our actions well?
Jesus is the source of all of our provision and He is willing and able to help us be better Fathers to our children. To teach them from your table the truths of God and the Grace of His Love.
"13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope . . . 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words." - 1 Thess 4: 13, 18
1) Be Honest With God About How You Feel
2) Let Other People Help You (Get Involved in Lifegroups to Do Life Together)
3) Rest In The Hope Of The Gospel
4) Trust In God’s Presence (He promises to be there in all of our situations – good and bad)
“Amplify: Desperation”
Mark 5:21-43
Desperation . . .
Jairus and the woman were desperately trying to get to Jesus because they were clearly aware of their need. (v. 23, 25-26)
· Jesus is quick to respond to those who act in humble faith. (v.22, 27)
“And He went with Him . . . And He said to her . . .”
Two Different People . . . One Common Story
· To the man who seemed to have everything, he still needed Jesus.
o “Then came to Him one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jarius by name . . .” (v. 22)
· To the woman who had lost everything, Jesus gave her all she needed.
o She came broken, but left restored.
· To the woman whom all had rejected, Jesus called her daughter.
o She came alone, but left daughter of the King.
· To the man who felt the sting of death, he experienced the joy of life.
o Where Jesus is, there is life. Death must flee at His presence.
The Gospel Amplified . . .
Each of us is in need of what only Jesus can give.
· We are all in need of the gospel of grace. We are all people undeserving, yet in great need.
Questions for Discussion . . .
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In what ways is desperation seen in the lives of Jairus and the woman in Mark 5? Discuss times in your life where you came to realize how desperately you needed Jesus. It may events or circumstances in the past or something you’re currently going through.
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In what ways did Jairus and the women act in humble faith? Why does God respond to those who act in humble faith?
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In this passage you see the lives of two completely different people, from two different walks of life but they were both in need of what only Jesus could give. How do you see that in the lives of people today?
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Discuss what you think must have gone through the mind of the woman when Jesus called her daughter. Why do you think they would have been so life-changing for her? What do you think was going through the mind of Jairus when Jesus healed his daughter? Why would that have been life-changing for him?
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Discuss the last point of how we are all in need of what only Jesus can give. Why is this statement true? How can you share that with those in your life who are a lot like Jairus or the woman in this account?
Amplify: What Is My Story?
Mark 5:1-20
A Wrecked Life . . .
Satan wants to destroy your life. (John 10:10; 1 Peter 5:8)
· You were not created to live among the tombs, but to live!
· You are not meant to be bound, but to be free.
A Rescued Life . . .
Jesus wants to save your life.
· Jesus has come to rescue what sin has wrecked.
o Those whom Satan seeks to destroy and the world seeks to discard, Jesus seeks to redeem.
And An Amazing Story . . .
· A changed life is proof of the gospel at work in you.
· A changed life amplifies the gospel loudly to the world.
o Tell your story to those who know you best.
o Tell your story to all who will listen.
So . . .
What Is My Story?
Questions for Discussion . . .
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Discuss the statement that Pastor Shawn said, “You were not created to live among the tombs, but to live.” What does that mean?
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Although not everyone in your group may be a Christ-follower, invite each person in the group share his/her story (how and when the became a Christ-follower; their continued search and seeking out what it means to be a follower of Christ, etc.,)
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Why do you think that Jesus did not permit the man who was possessed to come with him, but rather told him to go home to his friends and share his story? What are some of the practical applications or takeaways from Jesus’ response?
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Compare and contrast the different responses of the people in verses 15-17, and 20. How does the gospel’s effect on a person’s life elicit those responses today?
“The Perfect Storm”
Mark 4:35-41
Jesus is in charge of this production, it’s all about His Plan
Jesus sets the stage
He is fully aware of the people, places, etc. involved
Jesus is the Main Act (Colossians 1:16-17)
· Jesus is the God Man, fully human and fully God
· Jesus identifies with our humanity (Hebrews 4:15)
· Jesus takes a Sabbath (v.38a)
· Jesus brings the storm (v.37)
· Jesus calms the storm (v.39)
· Jesus created and controls the universe
· Jesus’ words have immediate power to alter circumstances
Jesus challenges His cast
· Jesus amplifies faith through adversity (v.40)
· It is in adversity that we seek Him most (v.38b)
· Jesus has an eternal perspective
Jesus is writing His story
His plan is to save through His power, to save you for His eternal purpose.
Questions for Discussion . . .
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Do you think that Jesus brought the disciples into this storm? Is He is in control when life makes no sense?
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Have you ever experienced a time when God acted in a way you didn’t understand? Has He used adverse circumstances to grow you spiritually?
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What is an area in your life that would benefit from maintaining a more “long term”, eternal mindset?
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When has the presence of God moved you in a way that displayed who He is and who you are in comparison?
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Have you been through a “storm” in life that didn’t make sense, but in hindsight you can see His purpose?
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How can we better trust Him in the circumstances and seasons of life that don’t make sense as we live them?
Amplify: Lamps and Seeds
Mark 4:21-34
The Lamp . . .
We shine the light of Christ.
· As a follower of Christ you have been strategically placed for the purpose of brightly shining the light of Christ. (Matthew 5:14-16)
o God abundantly blesses those who shine the light of Christ.
o God takes from those who are merely religious but not in relationship with Him. (Luke 8:18; Matthew 7:21-23)
The Seeds . . .
We sow the seed of the gospel.(Mark 4:26-29)
· As a Christ-follower it is our responsibility to shine the light of Christ and scatter the seed of the gospel.
God gives the increase to His kingdom.(Mark 4:30-32)
· The sowing of the gospel will reap the Kingdom’s harvest. (Revelation 14:15
o From 12 men to the nations of the world.
· The kingdom of God will be exalted above all kingdoms. (Revelation 7:9-17)
Questions for Discussion . . .
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What does this passage say about our responsibility as Christ-followers when it comes to shining the light of Christ?
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In what ways do you see how God has strategically placed you to shine the light of Christ and His gospel? Would you say that you are letting the light of Christ shine brightly through you, or are you more prone to hiding the light? Explain.
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When it comes to sowing the seed of the gospel of Christ, what is our responsibility and what is God’s activity? How does God’s activity speak of His sovereignty?
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What gives a person the assurance that they will be part of the harvest that Jesus is referring to in Mark 4:29?
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Why do you believe Jesus used the illustration of a mustard seed to describe the kingdom of God? How do you see this coming to fruition today?
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Spend time praying for God to give you courage to shine the light of Christ and sow the seeds of the gospel. Pray that He will increase His kingdom as you are faithful in making much of Christ.
Amplify: The Sower, The Seeds and The Soil
Mark 4:1-20
A Story Worth Listening To . . .
Jesus strongly encourages those who hear to listen. (Mark 4:3, 9)
· The sower speaks to the one who scatters the seed.
o Jesus
o The Spirit of God
o Every believer (Matthew 28:20)
§ We aren’t called to test the soil, but rather we are called to spread the gospel of Christ.
· As God gives opportunity, help cultivate the soil of those whom God places in your life.
· The seed speaks to the word of God. (Mark 4:15)
· The soil speaks to receptivity of each person to whom the word is spoken.
o The soil of a hard heart. (Mark 4:4, 14-15)
§ Resistant to the word of God
o The soil of a shallow heart. (Mark 4:5, 16-17)
§ Receive the word until it becomes difficult.
o The soil of a culture-craving heart. (Mark 4:7, 18-19)
§ Relinquish the word for cravings of the flesh.
o The soil of a prepared heart. (Mark 4:8, 20)
§ Reap the fruit of the word of God at work in them.
A Story Worth Taking to Heart . . .
· The responsibility of every believer is to know the word and amplify the gospel.
o You can’t spread the word if you don’t know the word.
· The rich soil of a cultivated heart is fertile ground in which the Word of God takes deep root and bears much fruit.
· When I am attentive to the Word, I am more prone to be inattentive to sin. (Psalm 119:11)
Questions for Discussion . . .
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As a follower of Christ, how serious are you about spreading the word of God where He has strategically placed you? (home, work, school, neighborhood, community, friendships, etc.,) What has compelled you to be serious about it? In what ways do you need to be more serious about it?
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What are some relationships that God has entrusted to you where He is giving you the opportunity to help cultivate the soil of a person’s heart? Ultimate God prepares the soil, but He often will use us as an instrument in His hands.
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Discuss the different type of soils that Jesus mentions in Mark 4:1-20. Where would you say that you are in your life when it comes to receiving the word of God? What needs to change? What do you need to do to ensure that the soil stays prepared?
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Discuss the statement that Pastor Shawn mentioned “When I am attentive to the Word, I am more prone to be inattentive to sin.”
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As you close your time together, think of individuals God has placed in your life who are resistant to the gospel and spend time praying for them specifically; that God would break up the hard soil of their heart so as to receive the gospel of Christ.
Amplify: The Eternal Sin
Mark 3:22-30
A Blatantly False Accusation . . .
Although the scribes knew Jesus was doing good, in order to discredit Him, they continually claimed He was evil. (v. 22)
· Jesus had healed a many who was demonically possessed.
· Jesus had healed many who were physically ill and diseased.
o Simon Peter’s mother-in-law
o The leprous man
o The paralytic
o The man with the withered hand
An Irrefutable Response . . .
The logic of the scribes was flawed, indefensible, and intellectually dishonest. (v.23-26)
· Satan will not cast out Satan.
· A divided kingdom will not stand.
· Jesus will bind the strong man and take what is rightfully His.
“The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8
Amazing Grace and Explicit Truth . . .
Amazing grace is seen in God’s gracious forgiveness for all who turn from sin (repentance), and turn to Christ for the forgiveness of sin. (v. 28)
The explicit truth is, those who continually speak against the Spirit of God, willfully rejecting His work and defying the name of Christ because of the hardness of their heart, cannot be forgiven.
o The scribes blasphemed the Spirit when they visibly witnessed the work of the Spirit, yet continually professed what was good as evil.
o To blaspheme the Holy Spirit is to reject the gracious saving work of God made possible through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ.
Questions for Discussion . . .
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What is difficult about this passage of Scripture?
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Why do you believe the scribes were so bold to call what was good, evil?
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Discuss the significance of the imperfect verb “said” in Mark 3:22 and “they were saying” in Mark 3:30. Remember, the imperfect tense means that they kept saying in over and over again.
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What are some ways that people may attack Christianity today with flawed logic?
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How is grace and mercy seen in verse 28, and why is that so encouraging?
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Was there ever a time when you feared you had committed the unpardonable sin?
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How would you caution a non-Christian concerning the reality and nature of the eternal (unpardonable) sin?
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Even though a follower of Christ cannot commit the eternal sin, how does it serve as a warning and exhortation for Christians?
Mark 3:13-21 (ESV)
1. Jesus uses insignificant people to do significant things.
-Text on screen for 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (ESV)
2. Jesus doesn’t call the qualified; he qualifies the called.
-“God only loves bad and broken people who blow it because bad and broken people who blow it are all that there are.” - Tullian Tchividjian
3. Jesus unites people who would otherwise never associate.
-Text on screen for Galatians 3:28-29 (ESV)
4. Jesus alone is the hero.
Works Cited/For Further Study…
-The ESV Study Bible
-Faithmapping by Daniel Montgomery & Mike Cosper
-Total Church by Tim Chester & Steve Timmis
-Four Portraits, One Jesus by Mark L. Strauss
Discussion Questions…
- In what ways does this passage help us see that Jesus uses insignificant people to do significant things?
- When you think about the twelve men Jesus called to be his disciples, what hope does it give you that he can use you?
- In what ways, can seeing that Jesus “qualifies the called” instead of “calling the qualified” give you encouragement as you seek to make disciples yourself?
- In what ways are you tempted to believe that you have to “have it all together” in order to be used by God? How can the Gospel bring us comfort in this?
- Who do you regularly hang out with, that if were not for the Gospel, you would NEVER hang out with? In what ways do you need to see growth in this area in your life?
- Who is someone you need to be reconciled to? What steps are you going to take this week to see Gospel reconciliation begin?
- What difference does it make to see Jesus as the true hero of every story? How does this help us avoid “moralizing” the Bible?
“Amplify: Doing Good”
Mark 3:1-12
Withered Hands . . .
Jesus showed compassion to the man with the withered hand.
“And Jesus said to the man with the withered hand, ‘Come here.’” (v. 3)
The essence and reality of Sabbath is God extending grace that we might find rest and restoration in Him.
· We are all in need of mercy and grace. “Come here.”
· We are all in need of restoration. “’Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was restored.” (v. 5)
Hardened-Hearts . . .
Jesus confronted with brokenness the Pharisees’ hardened hearts.
“And He looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart . . .” (v. 5)
The Pharisees were so consumed with keeping all the traditions and man-made laws that they missed the heart of the Law of God.
o They were critical of that which threatened them.
o They were critical because their heart was full of jealousy.
o They were critical because their prideful arrogance.
The Heart of the Law . . . (v. 4)
· Love God—“And you shall love the LORD your God will all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:30)
· Love people—“You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:31)
What God Requires . . . (Micah 6:8)
· Doing what is right is always good.
o It is always right to do what is good even when others may criticize.
· Loving what expresses kindness is always good.
· Walking humbly with God is always good.
Questions for Discussion . . .
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What was Jesus communicating about the Sabbath when he healed the man with the withered hand?
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Is your tendency to show compassion or criticize those with “withered hands?”
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Why were the Pharisees so opposed to Jesus and always looking for something of which to accuse Him?
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In the same way that the Pharisees were watching Jesus, those around us are watching us. What are some lessons we can learn from how Jesus amplified the gospel in the midst of criticism?
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Jesus expressed righteous anger toward the pious Pharisees. Do you believe Jesus was justified in this? What are some examples of expressing justified anger?
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In what ways should we call, with brokenness, those who are hard-hearted and an obstacle to the gospel?
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Discuss how you have seen legalism be an obstacle to the gospel.
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What are the takeaways from this message and our discussion?
“No Idle Tale”
Luke 24:1-12
This is No Idle Tale . . .
· The empty tomb.
“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus . . . But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened.” (Luke 24:1-3, 12)
o The remains of Mohammad are in a tomb enshrined.
o The remains of Buddha, although he was cremated, are in a tomb enshrined.
o But the tomb of Jesus is empty.
§ An empty tomb is the greatest evidence of a risen Savior.
· The eyewitnesses. (1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Acts 1:1-5)
o Most laid down their life for the gospel.
· Peter—crucified on a cross upside down.
· James, son of Zebedee—beheaded.
· John—boiled in a cauldron of oil; survived and then exiled.
· Andrew—crucified on a cross.
· Philip—was scourged, thrown into prison, and crucified.
· Bartholomew—cruelly beaten then crucified.
· Matthew—killed with a weapon called a halberd.
· Thomas—killed by being impaled by a spear.
· James, son of Alphaeus—beaten and then stoned.
· Thaddeus (Jude)—crucified.
· Simon (the Zealot)—crucified.
· Matthias—stoned in Jerusalem then beheaded.
· Paul—beheaded.
· The written account.
o Four gospel writers with consistent accounts.
· The resonant longing in your soul.
“Did our hearts not burn within us while He talked to us on the road, while He opened to us the Scriptures?” Luke 24:32
A True Story With Great News . . .
- Because this is no idle tale, the penalty for our sin has been paid.
Implication: This affects me because I am a sinner in need of forgiveness. (Romans 3:23)
- Because this is no idle tale, death has been conquered.
· Death is a harsh reality but it does not have the final say.
· The empty tomb proclaims that Jesus has the final say, not death.
Implication: This affects me because death is a reality I cannot escape. (Romans 6:23)
- Because this is no idle tale, life is made possible by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Implication: This affects me because what I need most is life now and forever. (John 3:16)
Do I Believe? . . .
Is His story written on my heart and evidenced by my life?
“Amplify: A King’s Entrance”
Mark 11:1-11
Questions for Discussion . . .
· What are the similarities and differences between the first coming of Jesus and His entrance into Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives and His future second coming and entrance into Jerusalem?
· Look at the other parallel gospel accounts of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and discuss the perspectives of the gospel writers.
· Why did Jesus’ weep over Jerusalem?
· What was significant about Jesus riding on a colt that had never been ridden and entering Jerusalem?
· Why do you think the religious leaders of the day were so indignant when the people were crying out “Hosanna!” to Jesus? What is significant about Jesus’ response to them?
· As you discuss this passage of Scripture, what are the implications for us and the takeaways?
Mark 2:18-28
Two pressing questions that are asked of Jesus:
- “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” (v. 18)
o The only yearly fast mentioned in the New Testament was on the Day of Atonement, and in the Old Testament it was the only required fast.
o There are four fasts mentioned and observed following the Babylonian exile. (Zechariah 8:19)
o Jesus fasted while being tempted in the wilderness.
o John’s disciples fasted, more than likely, in keeping with the Day of Atonement and perhaps in anticipation of the coming Messiah.
o The Pharisees fasted ritually and as a show of piety. (Matthew 6:16-18)
§ Scripture warns against fasting with wrong motives (Isaiah 58:3-6; Zechariah 7:5-6)
· Fasting reveals our longing for the presence of God, which ultimately will be satisfied at His second coming. (v. 19-20)
· Jesus didn’t come to bring religious reformation as much as He came to make us righteous through His redemption.(v. 20)
· Jesus came to replace the shadow of God’s glory, with the reality of God’s glory.
§ Jesus fulfills the old covenant of the Law and institutes the new covenant by His blood. (Matthew 5:17; Mark 14:24,25; Luke 22:20)
§ Jesus is not something to be added to an existing religious system or tradition.
· New cloth (v. 21)
· New wine(v. 22)
2. “Why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?”
· God established the Sabbath to be set aside as holy. (Exodus 20:8-11)
o In Scripture, Sabbath was from sunset on Friday until sunset on Saturday.
o Sabbath is set aside as a day of rest.
· The Sabbath is to be a blessing, not a burden. (v.27)
o Jesus shatters their legalistic, self-righteousness with His sovereign authority.
· Legalism will deceive you into thinking you are spiritually full when in reality you are spiritually famished.
Questions for Discussion . . .
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Jesus is not an addition to religious systems, but rather is the only way to God. How would you respond to someone who asked you if there are several ways that lead to God?
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How was the Pharisees’ desire to fast commendable? In what ways did they get it wrong?
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What is the purpose of fasting? What is the point that Jesus is making in verses 19-20?
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Under what circumstances would you consider fasting?
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How should a follower of Christ respond to God’s command to honor the Sabbath? What is important about honoring the Sabbath? In what ways are you keeping Sabbath currently?
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How do we make sure we are teaching what Scripture says rather than adding to it and making our own rules?
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Were the Pharisees justified in condemning Jesus for His disciples’ actions? Explain.
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Discuss the statement Pastor Shawn made, “Legalism will deceive you into thinking you are spiritually full when in reality you are spiritually famished.”
Mark 2:13-17
Observations of Jesus’ Invitation . . .
· Reaching those far from Jesus involves drawing near to them and sharing the gospel.(v. 13)
o The best way to reach people for Christ is up close. The testimony of a gospel-centered life amplifies gospel-centered conversations.
· Calling sinners to the hope of the gospel is not the exception in Scripture, but rather the expectation in Scripture.(v. 14-15)
o Jesus invites to the table the unlikely. (“If He invited Matthew maybe he will accept me.”)
· Attracting those far from Jesus happens when they see Christ at work in you. (v. 15)
o “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
· Acknowledging spiritual sickness is necessary before you can experience spiritual healing. (v. 16-17)
o To admit that you need a physician is to first realize that you are most certainly sick.
§ Regardless if you are entrenched in the pit of depravity or entangled in the heavy chains of legalism, you are in need of the gospel of grace. (Luke 15:1-2, 11-32)
Questions for Discussion . . .
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Think about the people God has placed within your reach (family, community, work, school, networks) What keeps you from drawing near to those who are far from Jesus and sharing the gospel?
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In what ways do you identify with Levi (Matthew), who was considered a sinner that was viewed by some as beyond reach? Or in what ways, before you met Christ, could you identify with Matthew?
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What was so astonishing about Jesus approaching and asking Matthew to follow Him? What message do you believe that sent to those who were the outcasts and unlikely who witnessed of heard about this? What message does it speak to people today about Jesus’ invitation?
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Think about those whom you might consider to be viewed in the same way that the tax collectors were. Be honest. What is difficult, or the tension that seems to exist at times, about reaching out to them?
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If Jesus were walking our streets today, who would he go to or hang out with? Would He be tolerant or full of conviction regarding sin? How would He relate to them and what would He say? What is there about you that attracts those far from Jesus to Christ in you?
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The Pharisees wanted to do the right thing in upholding the Law, but where did they go wrong? In what ways could we be like the Pharisees?
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Moral therapeutic deism is believing you can be right with God by just obeying all the rules. Discuss this statement: “Moralistic therapeutic deism does not exempt, but rather exposes, your need for the gospel.” –Pastor Shawn
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What is your takeaway from today?
“Extreme Measures”
Mark 2:1-12
The Four Who Extended Mercy . . .
· They noticed the need of the man who was paralyzed. (v. 3)
o Implication: I need to notice the need of those around me.
· They were moved with compassion and chose to care. (v. 3)
o Implication: I have to be intentional about choosing to care.
· They were willing to get involved and take some risks. (v.4)
o Implication: I need to stop playing it safe and be willing to take some risks.
· They recognized that the only way this man would be healed was to take him to Jesus. (v. 5)
o Implication: I need to take those who are in need and bring them to Jesus.
The One Who Extended Grace . . .
· There was nothing the paralytic did to deserve what Jesus gave him. (v. 5)
o Jesus did what only He could do, and gave the paralytic what he needed most.
Implication: What every sinner needs most is the forgiveness of sin.
o There is nothing I have done or can do to deserve God’s forgiveness.
“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.” Ephesians 2:8-9
Questions for Discussion:
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There were many people who gathered after hearing that Jesus was coming home. Why do you believe that so many wanted to see and hear Jesus? Is there a correlation in our culture today as to why some want to see and hear Jesus but may not necessarily want to follow Him? (Read Mark 1:45)
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What is it about these four men that challenge you in how you see and reach out to others around you who are in need?
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Why do you believe that Jesus said, “Son, your sins are forgiven,” before healing this man physically? What did the paralytic do to earn forgiveness? Can we earn forgiveness? Why or why not? (Read Ephesians 2:8-9 again)
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Who has God placed around you that you need to notice, extended compassion to, take a risk, and bring to Jesus? To what extremes are you willing to go to put people in the face of Jesus?
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Why were the scribes and Pharisees questioning Jesus and accusing Him in their hearts of blasphemy? What did Jesus act in forgiving as well as physically healing the paralytic say about Jesus’ deity?
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To what extremes was Jesus willing to go to extend to us forgiveness of sin?
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What are some takeaways from what you’ve heard and discussed?
Relational Gardening: Weeding and Sowing
Jeremiah 1:10
A Garden of Weeds . . .
A marriage unattended will become a marriage overcome by relational weeds. (Prov. 24:30-31)
Something Has to Change . . .
· Change will never happen in your marriage until you uproot or tear down some old things and plant or build some new things.
“For your marriage to be healthy you must have destructive and constructive zeal.” Paul Tripp
The Principle of Sowing and Weeding . . .
The health and growth of your marriage is contingent upon how well you uproot weeds and sow seed.
Six Areas That Need Weeding and Sowing in Your Marriage . . .
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Weeding out selfishness, and sowing selflessness. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a; 1 Peter 3:7)
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Weeding out busyness, and sowing margin.
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Weeding out inattentiveness, and sowing attentiveness. (Ephesians 5:28-29)
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Weeding out self-righteousness, and sowing humility. (Ephesians 4:2-3; Philippians 2:3)
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Weeding out fear, and sowing peace.
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Weeding out laziness (passivity), and sowing initiative. (Prov. 20:4; 24:30-31)
Pastor Shawn takes a two week break from his series, "Amplify" to teach on the biblical principles of marriage. He talks about the effects of modern culture on our marriages and how God's pre-ordained precepts on marriage are no longer taught or respected by the culture influences that surround us daily. Join us for a refreshing, postive and biblical renewal of what God commands for our marriages to be and for our relationships to reflect.
Mark 1:21-45
Remember . . .
Mark is amplifying the gospel: King Jesus has come and He is Lord of all. (v.1)
Jesus Has Authority in His Teaching . . .
· When Jesus taught, people were amazed. (v. 22)
· When Jesus taught, He did so with authority. (v.22)
o He did not teach as the scribes. (Matthew 7:28-29; Mark 7:5-13)
Jesus Has Authority Over Demons . . .
o Demons are fallen angels. (Rev. 12:4)
o Demons are limited in their power.
o Demons are actively at work to carry out the schemes of Satan.
o Demons are able to oppress but NOT possess followers of Christ.
· The demons are fully aware of who Jesus is, and they are terrified. (v. 23-24)
o They recognize Jesus as the One sent by God. (v. 24)
o They understand their ultimate destiny. (v. 24)
· The demons must submit to the authority of Christ.
o Jesus is the true King who is Lord of all. (Philippians 2:10-11)
Jesus Has Authority Over Sickness and Disease . . .
· Jesus is sovereign over physical illnesses that are a result of living in a broken world.
o Sickness and disease exist in this world and painfully remind us that we live in a world affected by sin.
o Because of the death and resurrection of Christ, we experience the power of His healing. (Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:17; Revelation 21:4-5)
§ By His sovereign will some are healed immediately but temporarily.
§ By His grace, those who have trusted Christ as Savior and Lord, healing is ultimate and eternal.
Truth Statements:
· There is nothing that we encounter in life over which Jesus does not have ultimate authority.
· In our helplessness and hopelessness Christ has come that as we submit to His authority we experience His power.
Questions for Discussion:
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Why were those who heard Jesus teach so amazed? What amazes you most about the teachings of Jesus?
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The Word of God affirms Jesus as the Living Word, and the Living Word (Jesus) affirms the written word. What does this say regarding the authority of Scripture and the importance of it for us?
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The scribes were leaders who were knowledgeable of the Torah but not followers of the Law. How did Jesus respond to them? What does this say to us in how we view and apply God’s Word? (Look at Mark 7:5-13)
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Why do you believe the demons recognized Jesus? What did they know that the people didn’t recognize?
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What does Jesus’ authority over demons mean for us today? How can it affect your life?
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In what ways can demonstrations of the authority of Jesus be used to amplify the gospel of Christ in your circles of influence and around the world?
Mark 1:14-20
It’s About the Gospel . . .
Jesus came proclaiming the gospel of God.
· The most significant time in all of history has arrived.
“The time is fulfilled . . .” (v.15)
· The kingdom of God is near.
“and the kingdom of God is at hand . . .”
o The Messiah has come establishing His rule and reign over sin and death and in the lives of all who turn to Him.
§ The kingdom of God with us and within us.
§ The kingdom of God on earth (millennial reign)
§ The kingdom of God forever.
· The new heaven and new earth
· Turn from sin and believe in the gospel.
o “Repent”—a change of mind, leading to a changed behavior.
§ I turn from my sin and turn to the Savior.
It’s About Disciples Taking the Gospel . . .
God extends grace in calling unworthy disciples to follow a more than worthy Savior.
“Follow Me . . .”
· Jesus breaks through the everyday-ness of our life and calls us to something eternally significant.
“ . . . and I will make you become fishers of men.”
God has chosen to reach a broken world through those who are willing to give up everyone and everything for the sake of the gospel.
Questions to Think About . . .
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If a non-Christian asked you, how would you summarize the good news in two sentences?
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How is repentance related to confession and obedience?
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What does it mean to believe in the gospel?
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What have you given up to follow Jesus as His disciple?
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Give some reasons why Jesus is worth following.
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How do we fish for men? Think about casting a net and how that relates to ways in which you present the gospel.
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What is the “sea” God has placed you in, and who are the people around you who need to be reached. Write down some names and pray for them.
In this third session of his new series, "Amplify", Pastor Shawn covers Mark 1:12-13.
"12 The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. 13 And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him." - Mark 1: 12-13 (ESV)
Mark 1:9-11
Jesus’ Public Statement . . .
- Jesus publicly displayed His complete obedience to God the Father.
“Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Matthew 3:15
- Jesus visibly demonstrated the gospel effect that His death and resurrection would bring.
· New life through His death and resurrection. (2 Cor. 5:17-21)
· New identity with Christ in His death and resurrection. (Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 2:20)
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Jesus publicly appealed for all to be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)
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Jesus was publicly affirmed by God the Father. (Mark 1:11)
“You are My beloved Son, with You I am pleased.”
Truth Statement: Jesus amplified the gospel through His obedient act of baptism.
My Public Statement . . .
· My decision to surrender to Christ as Savior needs to be declared to the world through the obedient act of baptism.
· I demonstrate the effect of the gospel on my life when I obediently profess my new life and identity in Christ through baptism.
o Baptism is a declaration to the world that you are a child of God.
Truth Statement: Baptism is an act of obedience to God that amplifies the gospel of Christ to the world.
· In other words, it’s a big deal!
Small Group Discussion:
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Discuss why you believe Jesus began His ministry with His baptism?
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The word “baptize” comes from a Greek word that literally means to “submerge, immerse, dip or dunk.” Why do you believe that this is the only means by which baptism is spoken of in the Scriptures? What is it a picture or symbolic of?
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How does baptism amplify the gospel effect or testimony in your life?
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Baptism does not save a person, rather it is a declaration of one who has turned from sin and turned to Christ for the forgiveness of sin. Share with your group how you came to Christ and the significance of your baptism.
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If you have not followed through with baptism and would like to speak with a staff member to discuss being baptized, please email us at pastorshawn@crossgate.org
Mark 1:1-8
What About Mark?
· He was also known as John Mark. (Acts 12:12, 25)
· He was Barnabas’ cousin. (Colossians 4:10)
· He went with Barnabas and Saul/Paul on their first missionary journey for a short period of time and then left them. (Acts 13:4-5)
· He was in prison with Paul. (Colossians 4:10-11; 2 Timothy 4:11)
· He was mentored by Peter for several years. (1 Peter 5:13)
o The early church affirmed that Mark was the one who put into writing Peter’s testimony of Christ.
· He was primarily writing to the Christians and non-Christians at Rome (Gentiles).
The True Gospel . . .
Mark very succinctly states that the point of his narrative concerning Jesus is the gospel.
· Gospel: “euangelion”—declarative announcement of great news that brings much joy.
There is only one true gospel: Jesus Christ has come to rescue sinful and broken people from their sin toreconcile us to God.
· We are rescued so that we might be reconciled.
The reason this is such great news is because the promised King, who brings salvation, has come.
· “Jesus”—Hebrew rendering would be Joshua, which means “Yahweh is salvation.”
· “Christ”—Greek word translated in Hebrew as “Messiah” which means “Anointed One.”
· Son of God—the proclamation that Jesus is the deliverer who was promised.
Messenger of the Gospel . . .
Just as there was a promised Messiah, there was a promised messenger.
o John unashamedly proclaimed the need for repentance and forgiveness of sin.
o John the Baptist was passionate about making much of Jesus, not himself.
In order for the message of the gospel to be elevated and amplified in this world, Christ must increase and I must decrease. (John 1:29-34; 3:22-30)
Questions for Small Group Discussion:
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What is important about having all four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), telling the same story?
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How do you think Mark’s experiences with Barnabas, Paul, and specifically Peter, influenced him in the writing of the gospel of Mark?
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Why do you think Mark clearly used the name and title, “Jesus Christ, the Son of God?” What was he communicating to those who would read this?
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How do John and his preaching style compare with current notions of how to gain a following and grow a church? (question from “Exalting Jesus in Mark.”)
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Because John had a following, and his own disciples, he could have become jealous of Jesus, yet he didn’t. Instead of making it about himself, he pointed people to Christ. What must we do to continually remind ourselves that it’s not about us, but it’s about Christ?
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What are some of the ways you are amplifying the message of Christ to the people you influence, as well as to world around you?
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What steps do you need to take to become more passionate and engaged in telling the story of Christ to others?
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Write down some names of those with whom you want to begin in sharing the gospel.
Matthew 6:33
There are 4 proven ways that will help you stop growing as a Christian.
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Cut back on your communication with God. (Phil. 4:6-7, 2 Tim 3:16-17)
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Develop an all-consuming passion other than God. (Mark 12:30)
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Stay away from growing and dedicated Christians. (Prov. 27:17)
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Learn how to lie to yourself. (1 Cor. 3:18)
Matthew 25:1-13
Introduction:
The king has always been a coming king
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He came as Emmanuel (Isaiah 7:14, 9:1-2, 6-7)
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He came as Savior (Luke 19:10)
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He will come as King of Kings
Matthew 25:1-13 (Story of ten virgins)
The Coming Bridegroom
The Promised coming
They did not know when.
But they knew the bridegroom would arrive
The Response of the 5 women
Unprepared
Consequences
The Coming King
The Promise of Jesus’ coming
We don’t know when (Matthew 24:36)
He’s coming as a thief (1 Thessalonians 5:2, 2 Peter 3:10, Revelation 3:3)
But we know Jesus is coming (John 14:2-3)
HE WILL COME AS KING OF KINGS (Rev. 19:11-16)
The Response of the World
Many people will be unprepared (Matthew 7:21-23)
The Consequence (Revelation 20:11-15, 2 Peter 3:3-4, 8-9)
Are you Ready for His Coming? (Philippians 2:8-11, John 3:16)
Throughout the Old Testament, the Messiah becomes more clearly defined. The Coming Messiah . . . 1. He would be a prophet like Moses. (Deut. 18:15,18) • He would be chosen by God. • He would be a deliverer of those held captive. • He would speak the words of God. 2. He would be a descendant of King David. (Num. 24:17; Isa. 9:7; Isa. 11:1-2; Luke 1:32-33) 3. He would be born in Bethlehem. (Micah 5:2) 4. He would be born of a virgin. (Isa. 7:14; Luke 1:30-33) 5. He would die for the sins of all and rise from the dead. (Isa. 53:6,12; Ps. 16:10; Acts 13:34-37) If The Crown Fits . . . (John 1:35-51) Andrew, Philip and Nathanael loudly proclaimed, “We have found the Messiah!” Jesus is the only One who has fulfilled all that was prophesied about the Messiah who would come. • Jesus fulfilled what Moses spoke of in the Law. (John 1:45) o He is the chosen one of God (Matthew 3:17) o He is the deliverer of those held captive by sin and death. (Rom. 11:26-27; Colossians 1:13-14) o He spoke the words of God. (John 12:49-50) • Jesus is the descendant of King David. (Matthew 1:1; Luke 2:4; John 7:40-42; Revelation 5:5) • Jesus was born in Bethlehem. (Luke 2; Matthew 2:1) • Jesus was born of a virgin. (Matthew 1:22-23) • Jesus died for the sins of all and rose from the dead. (1 Cor. 15:3-6) All of Scripture points to and finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. (John 5:39-40) My Response . . . I believe that Jesus Christ is the Messiah who has come and I have surrendered my life to Him. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Messiah who has come to save me from my sins, but I have not surrendered my life to Him. I’m not sure what I believe about Jesus Christ, but would like to know more. I don’t believe I need Jesus to save me from my sin.
Join us as Pastor Shawn continues his series, “King of Heaven” Today's message is “The Impostor King”. The enemy is continually working to replace Jesus Christ as the King of your life and he is relentless. But we have been given the victory through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and we do not have to fall for the enemy's schemes. Even though the enemy attempts to deceive us in many ways the root cause of each of these attempts is based on our pride. Pride as in wanting our own way and not God’s way for our lives. Pride as in doubting the goodness of God and running to the enemy’s shadow replacements. Pride as in thinking that we know best and that God does not. All of these motives result in one thing, spiritual death.
If we are saved we do not lose our salvation but we can lose our hope, joy, meaning, protection and purpose that God has designed for us since the beginning of time. If we are not saved spiritual death means a permanent separation from God forever in a place of punishment called hell.
Today Pastor Shawn shows us how to recognize and defeat “The Impostor King” in our live and properly restore the True King to His place of Honor and Kingship in our own lives.
1 Samuel 16:1-13
The Shadow King . . .
· David was an unexpected king who would reign over Israel for 40 years. (1 Samuel 16:6-12; 1 Kings 2:11)
· David would be anointed as king of Israel, but not as King of Kings. (1 Samuel 16:13)
· David would save Israel from her enemies.
o David saved Israel from the Philistines.
The Perfect King . . .
God spoke through the prophets that someone much greater than David was coming. (Isaiah 9:6-7; Micah 5:2-5; Ezekiel 34:23-24; 37:24-28; Hosea 3:5)
· Jesus is the unexpected King who came, and our expectant King who will come again and reign forever.
· Jesus is the Anointed One who rules and reigns heaven and earth.
· Jesus brings salvation to all who turn from sin and turn to Him for the forgiveness of sin.
o He delivers us from the enemy of sin and death. (Romans 4:25; Romans 5:20-21; 1 Corinthians 15:55-57)
o He will deliver and save true remnant of Israel. (Isaiah 11:1-5, 10-16)
Truth Statement:
Jesus Christ is the true King for whom the world has longed.
Judges 21:25 / 1 Samuel 8
When the world seeks to allow man to lead, rather than submit to the authority of God, the result is chaos. Israel believed Saul to be the answer, but God rejected Saul. After David and Solomon, the majority of kings in the history of Israel and Judah would be tainted and marred. There have always been kings, but there is only one King of Kings. God would redeem his people not through human kings, but through the Messiah King.
2 Corinthians 4:15; 2 Corinthians 8:9
“For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:15
Grace and gratitude are inextricably connected.
Grace and Gratitude . . .
· There is no expression of gratitude without experiencing grace.
o Grace: unmerited; undeserving favor
“ . . . so that as grace extends . . .” (v. 15)
o As I experience His grace, I respond with true gratitude.
“ . . . it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.” (v. 15)
Responding to Grace . . .
· Grace-giving toward others is the outward expression of gratitude to an all-gracious God. (2 Corinthians 8:1-7)
o God has lavished His love and grace on me not to keep to myself, but to lavish on others.
§ As I do, I point to them to the love and grace of Christ.
The Gratitude Effect . . .
When I live a life of gratitude, it makes much of the grace and glory of God in a culture in need.
Making It Practical . . .
1 Thessalonians 5:18; Colossians 2:6-7
The Need for Gratitude . . .
Where godlessness abounds, gratefulness is absent. (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
· A heart that lacks gratitude is indicative of a heart that is full of self.
· At the core of ungratefulness is the belief that we don’t need God.
Thankful IN All Things . . .
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in all things, not for all things.
· Give thanks to God when things are good.
· Give thanks to God when things are difficult. (Habakkuk 3:17-19)
The Source of My Gratitude . . .
“Therefore, as you received Jesus Christ the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” Colossians 2:6-7
The extent of my gratitude to God is a reflection of the depth of my grounding in Christ.
· When we are grateful, it is a reflection of something much deeper than the words we speak or the actions we do. It speaks of whom our life is rooted in.
o Gratitude comes from being rooted in Christ.
o Gratitude increases as I grow in Christ.
o Gratitude is expressed in all circumstances as my faith is established in Christ.
Truth Statement:
When I daily acknowledge God’s grace toward me, it will dramatically affect the level of my gratitude to Him.
Living a Life of Gratitude . . .
· Make a list of what you have to be grateful for, and thank God every day this week for each.
· Ask God to help you express gratitude more than complaining this week.
· Make time to show gratitude to someone to whom you need to express gratefulness.
Pastor Shawn reviews the State of our Church by stating our vision statement and what we are doing to be the church God has called us to be. How are doing in our goal of being an epicenter of God's Activity from which He will shake the nations for His Glory? Who is God bringing to our church and for what purpose? What steps have we been doing to help advance the Kingdom of God in our community, state, country and world? Pastor Shawn talks about these and many more revealing statements about the State of Crossgate Church in 2014.
Jonah 3-4
A Change of Heart . . .?
There is a shift in Jonah’s response to God’s call, but not necessarily a heart change.
· Jonah went to Nineveh, but his heart may have still been in Tarshish.
o A reluctant heart will eventually outpace a morally deistic life.
Three Observations . . .
- Nineveh repented.
“And the people of Nineveh believed God. They called for a fast and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them to the least of them.” Jonah 3:5
A proper view of God leads to a right view of my sinfulness and my need for repentance.
- God relented.
“When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that He had said He would do to them, and He did not do it.” Jonah 3:10
Repentance moves the heart of God to relent in carrying out his judgment.
- Jonah resented. (4:1-4)
o Jonah quickly forgot the mercy and compassion shown to him by God.
o Jonah’s self-centeredness choked out all mercy and compassion for the people of Nineveh.
A self-centered heart leaves no room for mercy and compassion for others.
Truth Statement:
God wants to change my heart for the Nineveh in my life.
The Heart of the Matter . . .
· If God extended mercy and compassion towards you in the same manner in which you extend mercy and compassion towards others, where would you be?
· What or who is the Nineveh in your life?
Jonah 1:17-2-10
Things You Learn From the Belly of a Big Fish . . .
- Jonah’s disobedience led to his distress.
“I called out to the LORD, out of my distress and He answered me: out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and You heard my voice.” Jonah 2:2
Question:
Is the distress in my life due to willfuldisobedience in my life?
- Jonah’s distress led to his cry for mercy.
· Distress will bring you to your knees or harden your heart.
Question:
Is my distress leading me to cry out to God or am I sinking in bitterness?
- Jonah’s cry for mercy was answered in God’s display of compassion.
· God’s mercy and compassion is extended to undeserving people.
o The sailors
o Jonah
o The people of Ninevah
o You and me
· God’s great salvation is without prejudice. (Romans 10:12-13)
Getting Personal . . .
· Is there willful disobedience in my life that I am unwilling to confess to God?
· In my distress, am I being drawn to cry out to God, or am I hardening my heart?
· Is there something I am holding on to that I believe is worth the distress I’m in?
Jonah 1:1-17
The Not-So-Great Escape . . .
- Jonah was unwilling to surrender to the call of God on his life, so he ran.
Implication:
· When the desires of my heart do not align with the desires of God’s heart, I’m faced with the choice to surrender to God or sprint from God.
- Jonah fled to the most distant place to escape the presence of God.
Implication:
· When I pursue desires that supersede God’s call, it always leads me downward.
· I cannot run fast enough or far enough to escape the presence of God.
“If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!” Psalm 139:8
- Jonah found himself running from God and running into disaster.
Implication:
· When I run in defiance from God, I run into the misery of a life lived in opposition to God.
· When I live in disobedience it affects more than just me.
TwoRelevant Questions . . .
What is the “Ninevah” God is calling me to?
Am I willing to surrender to the will of God by adjusting my attitude and my life in order to live in obedience to Him?
Join us as Pastor Shawn leads us as we worship and observe The Lord's Supper. Also in this teaching Pastor Shawn clearly explains the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Life-Giving Message of Hope and Salvation.
The Moral Law Giver . . .
· Man/woman cannot be because we are not objective, universal, and constant.
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Proverbs 16:25
· God must be the moral lawgiver because He is objective, universal, and constant.
“For I the Lord do not change . . .” Malachi 3:6
“God said to Moses, ‘I AM who I AM.’” Exodus 3:14
§ “Yahweh” means that God is the self-existing One; not dependent upon anything else for His existence; He is Creator; He is immutable (unchanging)
Jesus’ Claim . . .
“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” John 14:6
· Jesus makes the claim that He is truth.
o Not a truth.
o Not some truth.
o He claims to be absolute truth.
Passing the Truth Test . . . ?
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Jesus is constant because He eternally exists.
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Jesus is universal in that He is true for all people, in all places, at all times.
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Jesus is objective in that He is self-existing; not dependent upon anything for His existence; He is impartial, the complete essence of truth.
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Jesus is knowable in that He has revealed Himself to all people that we might have a personal relationship with Him.
The Conclusion . . .
Jesus is truth and He is knowable.
· He is the standard for truth therefore moralrelativism is an incorrect view.
· Every person is subject to His standard of truth, and is held accountable.
· His standard of truth is applicable for every area of life.
Since there is absolute truth, we can absolutely know how to correctly view the world.
John 18:33-38; John 14:6
Truth Defined . . .
Truth is simply a common and knowable reality that exists independently of our perception; it is objective, universal, and constant.
· In other words, truth is absolute.
A Culture in Crisis . . .
How people define truth will determine how people live their life.
· It shapes a person’s morality.
· It shapes a person’s values.
· It shapes a person’s culture.
· It shapes a person’s religious views.
If you do not take truth seriously, you will not take God seriously.
Truth in a Post-Modern Culture . . .
Postmodernism says that truth cannot be known. It is based on feelings, experience, and is morally relative.
· If I feel that it is true, then it must be true.
· If my experience tells me it’s true, then it must be true.
· I may believe something to be true, but it might not be true for others.
The Post-Modern Mindset . . .
· Seeks not to offend, therefore it is tolerant of all beliefs as being true.
· Seeks to eliminate a system of beliefs, therefore it offers a variety of beliefs to embrace.
· Seeks to deny an objectivemoral standard, therefore there is no accountability needed.
o If there is no absolute truth, there are no consequences for living a morally relative life.
The Truth Is . . .
There must be a moral code, or law, written within us. (Romans 2:14-16)
· If there is a moral law, then there must be a moral lawgiver.
· If there is a moral lawgiver, then the moral lawgiver must be the source of all truth.
· If the moral lawgiver is the source of all truth then the moral lawgiver must be objective, universal, and constant.
Psalm 8; Psalm 19:1-6; Psalm 139
When it comes to explaining the beginning of the universe and the origin of life here are two competing views:
- Naturalism—the belief that claims everything arises from natural properties and causes, and supernatural or spiritual explanations are excluded or discounted.
· Undirected process or randomness.
- Supernaturalism—the belief that all life came into being through supernatural, intelligent design beyond all scientific understanding of the laws of nature.
· Directed process or determinism.
Supernaturalism . . .
Those who hold the view of supernaturalism believe that there is a supernatural force or Supreme Being behind the existence of the universe and the origin of life.
· Intelligent Design (I.D.)—intelligent design is a minimal commitment scientifically to the possibility of detecting intelligent causation. (Dr. Paul Nelson, Professor at Biola University, Los Angeles)
· Creationism—the belief that the intelligent design of the universe and life is the result of the eternal God who has created all things.
Let The Evidence Show . . .
The universe has been incredibly designed.
“The universe and the laws of physics seem to have been specifically designed for us. If any one of about 40 physical qualities had more than slightly different values, life as we know it could not exist: Either atoms would not be stable, or they would combine into molecules, or the stars wouldn’t form the heavier elements, or the universe would collapse before life could develop and so on.” (Evolutionist, Stephen Hawking, Austin American Statesman, October 1997)
· There is order to the universe.
· The universe is “finely tuned.”
o Psalm 19:1-6; Psalm 8:3-4
Your life has been fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139)
· DNA—not just a simple cell.
o The information in the 3 billion characters in the DNA of every cell is equivalent to that in 1,000 encyclopedia-sized books.
o It would take a person typing 60 words per minute 8 hours a day, around 50 years to type the human genome.
o If all DNA in the 100 trillion cells that make up “you” were put end-to-end, it would reach the sun (90 million miles away) and back 600 times. (Genome Facts)
· Laminin
o Cell adhesion protein molecule.
o Cells organize into certain molecular structures and that determines what protein there are; between 10,000-60,000 proteins in the human body.
o Tells the cell what its job is.
o It holds the membranes together; it’s the glue of the human body.
The Conclusion . . .
The overwhelming and rational observable evidence is on the side of creationism.
The truth is, regardless of the overwhelming evidence, the purpose of creation is to point us to the Creator so that we might know Him.
· By grace He has revealed Himself to us.
· Through faith we come to know Him.
o Faith in the saving work of Jesus Christ.
Your Decision . . .
What do I believe?
In today’s teaching,“The Origin of Life - Part I,” Pastor Shawn explains the differences between naturalism and supernaturalism as the source of all life and creation. Naturalism is an untestable belief, since we cannot test that which we cannot either duplicate or witness. But since naturalism will not allow for the supernatural as a cause for anything in this world, even if logical, then natural causes must account for everything. Pastor Shawn points out the flaws in this theory as it relates to the origin of life as well as point out the foundation that supernaturalism provides with the Book of Genesis and the creation story. Since the creation story is the bedrock for all of our faith we invite you to learn more with this teaching which is part of the “Apology Necessary” series.
Colossians 2:6-8
The World As We See It . . .
Simply put, a worldview is how an individual views the world.
For the Christian, who claims to be a follower of Christ, the Bible is the foundation upon which our worldview is built.
The Starting Point . . .
The basic foundation of any worldview must start with a person’s view of God, and answering this question:
- Does God exist, or does He not exist? God is or God is not.
The Three “isms” . . .
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Atheism—the belief or view that there is no God; the existence of God can be disproved.
- The Dilemma: burden of proof that God does not exist rests upon them.
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Agnosticism—the belief or view that there may be a God or supreme being but such a God cannot be known.
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The Dilemma: they have exhausted all means in seeking to know God and have found Him to be unknowable.
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Theism—the belief or view that there is a God.
The Pressing Question . . .
Is belief in God rational?
- God is beyond our comprehension, but not beyond being known.
The Revelation of God . . .
-
God has revealed Himself through general revelation. (Acts 17:23-25; Romans 1:19-20)
- Nature/beauty of creation
- Intricate design
- Order of universe
-
God has revealed Himself through specific revelation. (Colossians 1:15-20)
- The Bible articulates clearly who God is.
-
Jesus Christ is the image of the invisible God.
- God has revealed Himself with such clarity that all people are without excuse.
God Is . . .
- God is relational, which means He is personal.
- God is righteous, which means He always does what is right.
- God is ruler, which means He is sovereign.
Because God Is . . .
- Because He is relational you can have a relationship with Him that is intimate and not distant.
- Because He is righteous there is a way by which we can be forgiven of our sins and live a life that displays Christ-likeness.
- Because He is ruler we must submit to His authority and the laws He has established.
Matthew 24:3-14
What We Are Witnessing . . .
We are watching prophecy unfold before our eyes.
- Nations rising up against Israel; global criticism of Israel
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A terrorist organization, Hamas, epitomizing evil as they threaten the lives of both Palestinians and Israelis.
- Innocent people as human shields
- Numerous broken cease-fires
- Using contributed funds to advance their agenda to destroy Israel, not build a better Gaza.
The Bigger Story . . .
-
There are certain events that God has ordained that must take place prior to the return of Christ. (vv.3-14)
- Know the truth—because there will be those who will seek to lead you astray. (v.4)
-
False Christs and false religions—a religiously pluralistic culture embraces all faiths as true faith and many Messiahs. (v.4)
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Wars and rumors of wars—there will continue to be an increase in violence; nation vs. nation and kingdom vs. kingdom. (v.6-7)
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Famines/Earthquakes/Pestilence—as the economic crisis globally continues to grow, so will the lack of food; as earthquakes increase it will create major issues; pestilence (v.7); Luke 21:5-19
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Tribulation/Death—those who follow Christ will face intense persecution, and some even death. (v.9)
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Apostasy—the falling away of those who are not true followers of Christ. (v.5,10-12)
-
Spiritual Awakening—the advance of the gospel will reach the ends of the earth. (v.14)
-
All of these events are occurring, but they will intensify before the return of Christ. (v.8); Isaiah 26:16-19
The Next Chapter in the Story . . .
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The beginning of the 70th week spoken of by Daniel, which is the final 7 years.
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A false peace that is marked by a 7-year treaty with Israel.
- The covenant with death (Isaiah 28:14-18; Daniel 9:27)
- It will be broken 3 ½ years later when we see armies surrounding Israel, and the Antichrist seated in the temple.
-
The End of the Story . . .
The gospel tells the story that ends with us gloriously reigning with Christ because He has saved us from sin and saved us to Himself.
“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing My recompense with Me, to repay everyone for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” Revelation 22:12-13
“And He who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new. Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’” Revelation 21:5
Where Am I in the Story . . .?
Am I ready to surrender to the One who can mend what sin has unraveled in me?
We invite you to join us as Pastor Shawn continues his series, "Unraveled". The topic of today's teaching is, "Law and Compassion". We will hear what the Bible says about how Christians should respond to events and crisis that sometimes require different modes of authority to act in much different ways. God's Word speaks very clearly about our personal and civic responsibilites in areas that give us a chance to spread His Good News among the nations. Join us for this interesting look at what God says about one of the major issues facing our political, civic and individual leadership.
1 Peter 4:12-19; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Acts 4:1-22; Romans 13
The Attack . . .
Often what people attack greatest is that which they are threatened by the most.
· What threatened the Jewish religious leaders, and even Roman officials, was the message of the gospel and its effect on those to whom it was preached.
o The message of the gospel confronts the reality of our sinfulness. (Acts 2:36-41)
o The message of the gospel contends that we are in need of salvation.
o The message of the gospel confirms that Jesus is the only way to salvation.
If the message cannot be stopped, silence the messenger.(Acts 4:17-18)
· Political pressure or legal intimidation
· Discrimination
· Imprisonment
· Death
An Understanding . . .
· For believers, suffering should never be surprising, but expected. (1 Peter 4:12)
· For believers, suffering happens because you are identified with Christ. (1 Peter 4:13; John 15:18-27)
· For believers, suffering is an indication that the reputation of God is in you. (1 Peter 4:14)
· For believers, suffering magnifies the cause and name for which we suffer. (1 Peter 4:16)
Our Response . . .
· Submit to the governing authorities to the degree that you do not violate God’s commands. (1 Peter 2:13)
o Have I been asked to compromise what I know is God’s will?
§ We must obey God rather than men.
§ Be willing to pay the price for your convictions.
o Do I not want to submit because of philosophical differences; political differences; ideological differences; pride; anger?
· Let the life of Christ in you be your greatest testimony. (1 Peter 2:15)
o Follow the example of Christ
· Trust in God who judges justly. (1 Peter 2:23)
Pastor Shawn starts his new series, “Unraveled” today with the message, “Marriage and Sexuality”. In today’s world there are many voices that seek to influence us in our views on culture and morality. These voices include entertainment, books, education, blogs and more. So how can we know what is really truth in this storm of information?
God gave us His Word on the subject of Marriage and Sexuality and His Word is the one we are called to live by. God's Word is the absolute Truth that we can base not only our life on here on earth but in the world to come. We invite you to listen as Pastor Shawn teaches from God’s Word in regard to His Truth about Marriage and Sexuality.
Soul Satisfaction—A Study in Philippians”
Philippians 4:10-23
“Content”
I Have Learned . . .
Contentment is cultivated in a heart that is joyfully satisfied, not one that is always complaining.
“Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say rejoice . . . I rejoiced in the Lord greatly . . .” (vv. 4, 10)
· Complaining is the overflow of your discontent.
If anyone had reason to complain, it could have been Paul. (imprisoned, beaten, mocked, shipwrecked, abandoned . . .all for the gospel)
Contentment is found when we find our soul satisfaction in the presence and grace of the all-sufficient Savior.
· “I know how to be brought low . . . the secret of facing hunger . . . and need.” (v.12)
o All that I do not have is His to provide.
“For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:10
· “I know how to abound . . . the secret of facing plenty . . . and abundance.” (v.12)
o All that I do have is His to use for His glory.
“Keep your life free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you or forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
· Contentment is a result of trusting in the only One whose strength can truly sustain you.
o Christ is our Provider and provision; He is our Source and our sustenance. (Psalm 23)
o God’s sanctifying work that brings about contentment is often ignored for the self-gratifying, instantaneous “false contentment” found in the moment.
§ The things of this world will never satisfy you.
Practicing the presence of God daily is a discipline that develops a spirit of contentment within me.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
· As I spend time with him, I can rejoice in knowing that God will never leave or forsake me.
· As I spend time with Him, I can pray knowing that He hears my cry and will meet my greatest needs. (v.19)
· As I spend time with Him, I can thank Him, knowing that He is true to His promises. (v.19)
Being content with what you have, and having certainty that God is your provider, gives you freedom to live a grace-giving life.(vv.14-18)
· Great contentment is found in giving to the needs of others.
My Response . . .
Soul Satisfaction - A Study Of Philippians (Chapter 4: 2 - 9)
His Nearness Is Our Good . . .(v. 4-5)
“But as for me, the nearness of God is my good . . .” Psalm 73:28a
“But You are near, O LORD, and all your commandments are true!” Psalm 119:151
“The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” Psalm 145:18
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you . . .” James 4:8
· Because the Lord is near, I do not have to fear or be anxious.(v. 6)
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3
o Worry consumes my life when I allow fear to overwhelm my faith.
Don’t Worry . . .
· Because the Lord is near, I can offer up my requests to Him and know He hears.(v.6)
o Why should I offer up prayers to God if he already knows what I need?
§ Because bringing our requests to God is an admission that I cannot provide for my needs, but God can. (Matthew
o When I pray, God’s Spirit displaces our worry and leads us to worship.
§ Worry is what distracts us from worship.
§ Prayer not only prepares our heart for worship, it also produces a heart of overflowing worship.
§ When I find rest as I worship in His presence, worry has no place to rest in me.
Be at Peace . . .
· Because the Lord is near, I can experience Hisoverwhelming peace that guards my heart and mind.(v.7)
o The peace of God guards my heart as I trust in what Iknow is true, not what Ifeel is true.
§ I experience peace when my mind dwells on, and my life obediently displays, that which is Christ-honoring.
· Think on what is true—live out the truth.
· Think on what is honorable—live a life of honor.
· Think on what is just—live a life that displays justice.
· Think on what is pure—live a life of purity.
· Think on what is lovely—live a life that is pleasing.
· Think on what is commendable—live a life that is admirable.
· Think on what is excellent and worthy of praise.
My Response . . .
“Soul Satisfaction—A Study in Philippians”
Are We There Yet?
Philippians 3:12-4:1
Paul’s Confession . . .
- As followers of Christ, we are not perfect like Christ.(v.12)
· We are all in process. (Philippians 1:6, 9-11; 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 13:11-12)
- As followers of Christ, we should live in constant pursuit of fully knowing and becoming like Christ. (v.12-13)
· Pursuing Christ-likeness brings much glory to God. (2 Peter 3:18)
· Pursuing Christ gives evidence of a life transformed by Christ, and the power of His Spirit in us.
o It displays the truth of the gospel to a culture in need of God’s great salvation. (Philippians 2:14-16)
· We press on by not becoming distracted by what we have considered loss. (v.13)
· We press on by fixing our eyes on Christ who is the prize of surpassing worth. (v.13-14) (Hebrews 12:1-2)
- As followers of Christ, those who are maturing in their faith are determined to pursue knowing Christ. (v.15-16)
· A maturing follower of Christ realizes his/her imperfection.
· A maturing follower of Christ refuses to settle in his/her faith.
· A maturing follower of Christ recognizes the conviction of the Spirit of God.
Paul’s Challenge . . .
· Be careful to follow the example of those who are running the race well and growing in their faith.(v.17-19)
o It is crucial that a follower of Christ has someone who challenges and encourages them to pursue Christ.
§ Be careful of those who have become distracted and are chasing after what is counted loss.
§ Remember that we are awaiting the prize of eternity with Christ, who is of surpassing worth.
§ In your pursuit of Christ, stand firm.
Making it Practical . . .
-
I’m not where I need to be spiritually, but I am in process.
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As a follower of Christ, my desire should be to pursue Him with passionate determination.
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As I mature as a follower of Christ, I realize how far I have to go but refuse to settle where I am by remaining sensitive to the Spirit of God who is at work in me.
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I need to be encouraged and mentored by those who are growing in their faith, and not run the race alone.
Philippians 3:7-11
Loss is Gain . . .
The reasons Paul considered everything loss is because . . .
· Meaning and significance do not come from a list of achievements or titles, but from being identified with Christ.
“But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” (v.7)
· Everything else greatly pales in comparison to surpassing worth of knowing Christ.
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish in order that I may gain Christ.” (v.8)
o In light of knowing Christ, the things we often perceive as gain are just empty treasures painted with fool’s gold.
o To give up what you have in order to pursue that which is of most worth is really no sacrifice in light of what you gain. (Matthew 13:44-46)
· Righteousness depends on faith in Christ, not in keeping religious rules.
“ . . . and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness of God that depends on faith . . .” (v.9)
o Our righteousness is not secured in what we are identified with, but rather it is secured in finding our identity in Christ.
· Knowing Christ intimately requires treasuring Christ fully above all things.
“ . . . that I may know Him . . .” (v.10)
o I will never gain a clear understanding of the intrinsic worth of that which I do not intimately know.
§ The power of His resurrection: to live in the power of the One who raised Christ from the dead.
§ To share in His sufferings: living in a way that is worthy of the gospel; unashamed and willing to count the cost of following after Him.
§ To become like Him in His death: obedient to the end, for the glory of God.
“Flow”
John 7:37-39
For us to know and live a life of spiritual abundance we must realize…
- Paul was able to say with joy and peace that “…to live is Christ and die is gain”
because his soul’s thirst was being satisfied by the presence and the power of the Holy Spirit. (John 7:37-39)
- As followers of Christ we often look at the life of someone like Paul and see
a huge gap between the joyful life promised in scripture and where we find ourselves. (Psalm 63:1, 42:1)
-
When we are discontent, unsatisfied, fearful, and unhappy, our soul is spiritually thirsty. (John 10:10; Matt. 11:28)
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For us to live a life of true joy and peace, we must find and live in the flow of God’s spirit and reject those things that shut us off from it’s endless spiritual refreshment. (Psalm 1:1-3; Rev. 22:1-2; Phil. 1:6, 2:12)
Relentless
Philippians 3:1-6
Beware . . .
Be careful of those who seek to sabotage the truth regarding salvation.
· Look out for the “dogs.”—those who are the scavengers; who roam; not tame
· Look out for the “evildoers.”—those who are religious, but deny salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone.
· Look out for the “flesh mutilators.”—also known as the false circumcision; outwardly they follow the Law, but inwardly their hearts are uncircumcised. (Genesis 17:9-14; Romans 2:25-29; Galatians 1:6-10; 6:11-16)
o Judaizers—tried to convince people that unless a male was circumcised physically, according to the Law, they could not be ina right relationship with God.
§ The Jewish Talmud says, "The commandment of circumcision is more important than all the other injunctions of Scripture.”
Good works are never a substitute or supplement for Christ’s righteous saving work on the cross.
· My achievements do not take care of my sin problem; Christ’s righteousness does.
o It’s not about how relentlessly we pursue religion and keep religious rules that make us right with God. It is God’s relentless pursuit of us through His Son Jesus Christ that we have been made His own, and now, as a result, we relentlessly pursue the One who rescued us by His great salvation.
Be Certain . . .
True salvation is found by putting your full confidence in Christ for the forgiveness of sin.
· The true “circumcision.”
“ . . . and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.” Romans 2:29b
· Those who worship by the Spirit of God.
· Those who glory in Christ Jesus.
· Those who do not put confidence in the flesh.
Paul’s Checklist . . .
If personal achievement and ancestry could qualify someone for salvation, Paul would have been the model candidate.
· Circumcised the 8th day.
· Of the people of Israel, the tribe of Benjamin.
· A Hebrew of Hebrews.
· A Pharisee who excelled.
· A zealot against those who broke the Law.
· A strict follower of the Law; blameless.
Paul’s conclusion . . .
The trappings of religion never satisfy your soul; only a relationship with Christ quenches that for which your soul truly needs and longs.
What’s Your Conclusion . . .?
Soul Satisfaction: A Study in Philippians "Workout"
Philippians 2:12-30
If we are going to advance the gospel of Christ, we must live with Christ-like character.
Becoming Obedient . . .
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed . . .”
When I have a right view of God my response becomes one of humble gratitude, that produces in me both a desire and will to act in obedience.
· He is God and I am not, therefore I humbly submit to His purposes and His ways.
o Humbly submitting looks like obedient living.
Obedient Living . . .
“so now, (not only as in my presence but much more in my absence), work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”
Obedient living is giving evidence of God’s great salvation that is at work in me.
· As one saved by grace through faith, I am to work out, what God has already worked in.
o “work out”—Persistent dedication and commitment to pursue becoming like Christ. (Galatians 4:19; 2 Peter 1:3-11; Romans 6:19; Ephesians 4:1-3; Colossians 3:1-17)
o “God who works in”—God is working in us to desire and be determined to live for His glory.
§ Relationship vs. Religion
Set Apart . . .
“Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine like lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life . . .”
A heart of humility cannot harbor secret discontent when it comes to obeying Christ.
The gospel witness is most effective when I have been transformed by the gospel and in obedience conformed to the image of Christ.
· A life set apart to God will be in stark contrast to a life set against God.
Holding Fast . . .
My life should unashamedly exalt the Word of God that Christ might be exalted above all. (Psalm 138:2)
God chooses to use us to advance His Gospel as He commands us to live our life in a way that is worthy of His Gospel.
As Fathers, God is calling us to encourage others as well as our families with the love of Christ. God's Word says that the way to accomplish this is to humble ourselves and to put others and their interests before our own. To live with the character of Christ is only possible with a daily renewing of our minds which then can manifest itself into an attitude of sincere humility The reason we do this is to portray and live out the love of Christ before a lost and hurting world.
As Fathers, God is also calling us to be brave using the boldness of Christ as He resides in us. True courage can only come with the power and wisdom that comes from the power of God.
As Fathers, God is specifically calling us to sacrifice ourselves and our ambitions, pleasures, time and interests and obey Jesus Christ in all things. To be so captivated with the Gospel of Christ that God can/will exalt you in the proper time to help advance His Kingdom.
So the question is as a Father do you exhibit this kind of humility, courage, serving and sacrifice for your family and others for the sake of the Gospel?
Philippians 1:12-30
The Advance of the Gospel . . .
The gospel of Christ advances most often in unexpected places during the most difficult and undesirable circumstances. (v.12-13)
· Those who seek to constrain the gospel end up seeing the opposite effect in the advance of the gospel.
Gospel Courage . . .
There is a courage that the gospel ignites in those who are captured by and consumed with the gospel. (v.14)
· To be captured by the gospel means that I have surrendered to who Christ is and what He has done to save a sinner like me.
· To be consumed by the gospel means that I unashamedly speak the gospel of grace and give evidence to the effect of the gospel in my life.
A Life Worthy of the Gospel of Christ . . .
A life worthy of the gospel is one that courageously lives to make much of the greatness of Christ. (v.20-21)
· We make much of the greatness of Christ by finding our soul-satisfaction in Him alone.
o To live means I will make much of Christ. He is worth living for and nothing else compares. (v.22)
o To die means that although I lose this life, I gain in being with Christ. (v.23)
· We make much of the greatness of Christ by standing firm in unity. (v.27)
· We make much of the greatness of Christ as we contend for the faith of the gospel and not give in to fear. (v.28-29)
Redirecting . . .Acts 16:6-10
Rather than going into Asia, the gospel was taken into Macedonia, and the church at Philippi was launched.
Implication: Often the unexpected ends up being the greatest blessing. It may be disguised by difficulty, but in the end its refined worth is unveiled and brings great joy. (vv. 3-5)
Remembering . . .
When Paul remembers them, his recollection is not of the beatings he incurred, but of the effect of the gospel in the lives of the Philippians. (vv. 5-7)
· As they received the gospel, they arepartners in the gospel.
· As they received the gospel, they became participants of grace.
Implication: The gospel should be the central focus and compelling passion of our life.
Praying . . .
Paul prays . . .
· Love that abounds exceedingly. (v.9)
o Authentic biblical community is saturated with all-satisfying joy and Christ-like affection when the gospel is the central focus.
§ Everyone needs the gospel of grace.
§ The gospel changes everything and everyone.
· Knowledge and discernment.
o Knowledge with discernment equals wisdom.
For this reason . . .
· To approve what is excellent. (v. 10)
And in doing so . . .
· They would be pure and blameless for the day of Christ. (v. 10-11)
· They would be filled with the fruit of righteousness.
· They would bring much glory to God.
Implication: As we have been transformed by the gospel, our lives should give evidence of the gospel.
Scripture Verses - Acts 1:1-3; 6-11and Luke 17:20-21
Questions: When Jesus gets to heaven, what happens to Him? What did He ascend to do? How should we view Jesus today?
The day of Jesus’ ascension was Coronation Day in heaven!
Luke 22:66-69 - Colossians 3:1 - Hebrews 10:11-14
Psalm 2 - Psalm 45:2-7
As we think today about Jesus ascending to Heaven and being crowned Lord of all, we need to ask two questions: What is Jesus’ role now as Lord, and what is my role as a subject of His Kingdom?
- Jesus dwells eternally not only as Savior, but also as Lord over
everything! - Colossians 1:15-20 -
His role is to be Lord; our role is to Submit Obediently to His Lordship
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Jesus is preparing our heavenly home.
- John 14:1-3 ::Revelation 21:1-3; 9-24
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Jesus’ role is to prepare our eternal home; our role is to wait eagerly for it and to live presently as though that were home.
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Jesus intercedes for us before the Father.
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Romans 8:31-32
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Jesus’ role is to intercede before God as our Defense Attorney; our role is to live under His freedom and grace.
Not only did Jesus ascend to Heaven, He is coming back!
::Acts 1:10-11 ::Luke 17:24-30
As You Prepare . . .
1. Affirm the non-negotiables of your life.(Psalm 1:3)
A man without convictions is like a tree with no roots planted in rich soil; it may look good for a moment, but eventually it withers and dies.
o What are your convictions? What are the non-negotiables of your life when it comes to your faith?
§ Your life’s convictions regarding all other matters will stem from your convictions regarding your faith. It is your root system that nourishes everything about you.
2. Refuse to negotiate with your feelings.(Proverbs 4:23; Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 15:19; Proverbs 3:5-7)
o Your feelings are never a correct indicator for discerning truth.
o Your selfish and impetuous heart has a way of renegotiating your non-negotiables.
3. Exchange acquaintance with the truth, for knowledge of the truth. (Psalm 1:2)
4. Surround yourself with those who walk in the truth.(Psalm 1:1)
o Don’t become impatient and settle for the crowd.
§ You will only have a handful of really close friends in life; choose them wisely.
o Pray that God connects you with those who know and are pursuing Christ.
5. Place yourself in a culture that nourishes your soul.
o Get involved in a Christ-centered, biblically sound community of faith.
6. Understand that you will face the intense and brutal conditions of a post-Christian culture.
· Your beliefs will be mocked, so know what you believe and why you believe it.
· Your faith will be tested, but stand firmly on the truth unashamedly.
· Your voice will seek to be silenced, but speak truth in love and with the compassion of Christ.
As a mom, looking through the lens of God’s Word gives you a proper perspective on how to love your children well.
· Loving your children well looks like . . .
o Teaching your children well. (Psalm 78:1-8)
“My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching. Bind them on your heart always; tie them around your neck. When you walk, they will lead you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; and when you awake they will talk with you.” Proverbs 6:20-22
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. Remember the day you stood before the LORD your God at Horeb, when he said to me, "Assemble the people before me to hear my words so that they may learn to revere me as long as they live in the land and may teach them to their children." Deuteronomy 4:9-10
o Leaving your children a Christ-exalting legacy. (2 Timothy 3:14-17)
o Letting go of your children well. (Proverbs 22:6)
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
As a mom, looking through the lens of God’s Word gives you a proper perspective on how God loves you well.
· In those unappreciated moments, know that God is saying to you “I notice you and I love you forever.”
· In those all-alone moments, know that God is saying to you, “I’m here and I love you forever.”
· In those exhausting moments (physically/emotionally/spiritually/mentally), know that God is saying to you, “I am your rest, and I love forever.”
· In those stressful moments, know that God is saying to you, “I am your peace, and I love you forever.”
· In those disappointing moments, know that God is saying to you, “I am your joy, and I love you forever.”
In those fearful moments, know that God is saying to you, “I am with you, and I love you forever.”
· In those joyous moments, know that God is saying to you, “I will bless you, and I love you forever.”
Looking through the lens of God’s Word gives you a perspective on how to love the mom in your life well.
· Show her honor.
“Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (this is the first commandment with a promise), that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Ephesians 6:1-3
· Show her appreciation.
“ . . . giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ . . .” Ephesians 5:20
· Remind her of her worth.
“I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:14
· Pray diligently for her.
“ . . . pray without ceasing . . .” 1 Thessalonians 5:17
· Praise her often.
“Her children rise up and call her blessed . . . a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:28, 30b
Treasuring Christ: Reality Check
1 Chronicles 29:10-18
Four Reality Checks . . .
- Everything is God’s, and nothing is mine.(1 Chron. 29:10-12)
· In effect, “yours” or “you” are used 12 times in reference to God.
o Yours is the greatness.
o Yours is the power.
o Yours is the glory.
o Yours is the victory.
o Yours is the majesty.
o Yours is all that is in the heavens and in the earth.
o Yours is the kingdom.
o You are exalted as head above all.
o You give riches and honor
o You rule over all.
o You possess all power and might.
o You have the power to make great and give strength to all.
- I have nothing to offer God that He has not given to me. (1 Chron. 29:16)
There is nothing that you or I will give to God where His response will be, “Where did you get that?!?”
But He will remind you with a thought-provoking question, “Where did you get that?”
o My talent is from God.
o My possessions are from God.
o My time is from God.
o My wisdom is from God.
o My influence is from God.
o My money is from God.
Because Iam a steward of all that He has given to me, I should constantly ask, “What do I do with all you have entrusted to me?”
- All that I have, and what I do with it, will reveal the true condition of my heart.(1 Chron. 29:17)
“For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21
- God blesses those who hold His treasures with open hands and display a heart of joyful giving.(1 Chron. 29:17-18)
So, how do I respond?
- Keep before you the truth that God owns everything and we are just stewards who are to leverage what He gives us for His purposes. Pray that God will constantly direct your heart towards Him.
Pr
“Crossroads: The Burning Heart”
Luke 24:13-35
On the Road . . .
Jesus draws near to those seeking understanding. (Acts 17:22-31)
· Seeking a Savior.
· Skeptical but asking questions.
Jesus gives meaning to the message because He is the message. (Luke 24:27)
· Jesus makes sense of Scripture because He is the Word made flesh.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:1, 14, 17
· All that the Law and the Prophets point to find its fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ.
Jesus, who is the truth, opens blind eyes and ignites the soul.(Luke 24:31-32)
· Only Jesus gives sight to the spiritually blind.
· The Scriptures, without the redeeming work of Christ, is just an empty book with no resolve.
o Jesus resolves the conflict in the story of God.
My Crossroads . . .
· How am I going to respond to the truth that Jesus is who Scripture says He is?
· How long will I continue to walk down the road seeking understanding, when the truth is clearly before me?
1 Corinthians 15:17-18; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Ephesians 2:4-9; Colossians 2:13-14; 1 Peter 1:3-9
The Bad News . . .
If Jesus is not alive, there is no reconciliation with God. (1 Corinthians 15:17)
o In other words, sin wins.
If Jesus is not alive, there is no victory over death. (1 Corinthians 15:18)
o In other words, death wins.
If Jesus is not alive, this life is empty and the future is hopeless.
The Great News . . .
Because Jesus is alive, there is a way to be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:17-21)
o Sin is defeated.
o Forgiveness is offered.
Because Jesus is alive, there is a way to truly come alive. (Ephesians 2:4-9; Colossians 2:13-14)
o Death isdefeated.
Because Jesus is alive, there is a living hope. (1 Peter 1:3-9)
o We have a future.
Coming Alive . . .
I must acknowledge that I am separated from God because of my sin.
I must turn from sin and turn to Jesus for the forgiveness of my sin.
I must surrender my life to Jesus by putting my faith completely in Him.
Isaiah 53
What do you think of when you envision Jesus? When He was walking on this earth over 2000 years ago, how do you imagine He looked? Do you picture Him as a blue-eyed ,movie-star handsome man walking the streets of Jerusalem? Maybe as a regal ruler dressed in royal purple as He traveled from town to town? The Bible speaks of a different type of Jesus.
Isaiah 53 speaks of one who had neither form nor comeliness"- "no beauty that we should desire him"-"despised and rejected of men", and "as one from whom men hide their face, he was despised and we esteemed him not". It may shock some to learn that this is the description of the one identified by inspired men as being Jesus, the Son of God and Savior of men.
According to Isaiah Jesus "was oppressed, yet when he was afflicted, he opened not his mouth" (Isaiah 53:7). The Holy Spirit spoke through Peter, saying, "For here unto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for you...who when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, threatened not; but committed himself to him that judged righteously" (I Pet. 2:21-23). Isaiah explained why Jesus "was despised and rejected of men..." this way: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way..." (Isaiah 53:6).
Today we will learn more about whom the Bible says Jesus is and what that means to each one of us as we seek to follow Him daily.
Luke 23:26-27
Simon at the Crossroads . . .
· Simon did not just observe Passover on that day; he carried the wooden altar upon which the true Passover Lamb of God would be crucified.(Exodus 12:21-27)
“The next day he (John the Baptist) saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
“For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” 1 Corinthians 5:7b
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” Revelation 5:12
· What would have disqualified him from observing Passover actually became the means by which He would truly be saved.
“Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and many went up from the country to Jerusalem before the Passover to purify themselves.” John 11:55
· Simon carrying the cross is a vivid reminder of the cost involved in following Jesus Christ.
“And Jesus said to all, ‘If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” Luke 9:23
“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count he cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” Luke 14:27-28
“ . . . that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and may share His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death . . .” Philippians 4:10
o The Lamb of God died on the cross for my sin therefore, I will raise high the cross of Christ in my life.
The Crossroads I Face . . .
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Am I willing to come out from the crowd to take up the cross?
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Have I considered the cost of following Christ?
Mark 15:1-15
The Road We Travel . . .
All roads do not lead to heaven, but all roads do lead to the cross.
On the Road with Barabbas . . .
· He was a rebel—He didn’t follow the law of the land.
o I have a rebellious heart.
· He was a murderer—He had no regard for the life of others.
o I have a murderous heart.
· He was a thief—He took that which was not rightfully his.
o I have a thieving heart.
· He was aninsurrectionist—He rose up against those in authority.
o I have an insurrectionist heart.
Are we that different from Barabbas?
At the Crossroad . . .
The crowd didn’t save Barabbas that day, Jesus did.
· At the cross, the blood of the innocent Christ would pay for the sins of the guilty.
· At the cross, my sin would be nailed and my righteousness secured.
o On the cross Jesus would bear my guilt so that I could be made right with God.
My Crossroad . . .
How do you stand before God?
Matthew 7:7-8; Hebrews 4:16; 1 John 5:14; Philippians 4:6,19
Just Ask . . .
- Ask God boldly. (Matthew 7:7; Hebrews 4:16)
"This holy boldness, this argumentation, this reasoning, this putting the case before God, this pleading His own promises, this is the whole secret of prayer." Martyn Lloyd-Jones
· We can ask God boldly because we have been invited.
· We can ask boldly because we come in the name of Christ.
· We can ask boldly when we ask for that which is consistent with God’s will.
o To be delivered from the bondage of sin is God’s will.
o To be delivered from the bondage of debt is God’s will.
o To be set free to make disciples is God’s will.
o To be set free to give more to God’s purposes for His glory is God’s will.
- Ask God gratefully. (Philippians 4:6,19)
· We ask God gratefully because as we pray in His will, His provision is certain.
· We ask God gratefully because he meets our needs.
- Ask God believing. (Matthew 7:7-8; 1 John 5:14)
· We can ask God believing because we know He hears us.
· We can ask God believing because we know He is faithful to His word. (Hebrews 4:16)
Scripture References: Matthew 7:7-11; Luke 18:1-8; James 4:2-3
Nothing Too Difficult . . .
“Ah, Lord God! It is You who have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.” Jeremiah 32:17
“The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, ‘Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh, Is anything too hard for Me?’” Jeremiah 32:26-27
Without prayer we render ourselves ineffective, because apart from prayer we are merely human in our efforts.
Just Ask . . . (Matthew 7:7-11)
· Ask God humbly.
o Because we are in need.
§ We are asking because we cannot provide this on our own.
§ We are seeking because we cannot find our way on our own.
§ We are knocking because only God can open doors.
· Knocking always precedes entrance.
· Ask God sincerely.
o Because there is no room for inauthenticity in prayer.
§ Our motives are not self-seeking, but God-pursuing.
§ Our motives are not self-promoting, but God-glorifying.
Where self is exalted, God is excluded.
· Ask God specifically.
o Because we need to be aware of our specific need.
§ We are asking specifically because God cares about that which burdens us.
§ When we pray specifically, we see God answer specifically.
· Ask God persistently.
o Because we will not relent until God moves.
o Because our persistence shows our deep trust in God.
As a follower of Christ, if I am more concerned about the grades my child makes more than I am concerned about their spiritual condition then I have bought into culture’s definition of success.
Deuteronomy 6:1-9
The Priority of Parenting . . .
As a parent, I am the primary nurturer and disiciple-maker of my children.
· No one else is charged with as great a calling or responsibility when it comes to my children. (Ephesians 6:4)
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4
o How am I doing? What would be the grade on my report card or progress report?
The crux of the matter . . .
I cannot lead my child where I am not going.
· I’m going somewhere, but am I pursuing Christ?
· My children will followwho or what I follow.
As pastor and leadership, we are called to equip you for the work of ministry.
· The greatest ministry I have, as a parent, is to my children.
· As a parent, it is imperative that I do whatever I must to be properly equipped.
Opportunities for Becoming Equipped . . .
· Milestone Summits and Seminars
· Marriage and Parenting classes
· Parent Mentoring/Growing Kids God’s Way (Fall)
· Faith Talks
· One-on-One Parent Conferences
· Online resources/Milestones Magazine
Pastor Shawn concludes his series, "We Do" with a round table discussion with members of the new Marriage Ministry team. They discuss the importance of this new ministry to our church as well as the three functions each of the key leaders will be focusing on. Those three functions are:
1) Mentors - Mike and Alison Fendley are the leaders of this part of the Marriage Ministry team. They will be helping to recruit and train future mentors as well as helping to match couples who desire Godly counsel with mentors to help them in their marriage journey.
2) Events - Mark and Jill Cramer lead this portion of the Marriage Ministry team. They are in charge of events designed to strategically influence marriages in a positive manner. The "Art Of Marriage" conference held this past weekend is a great example of an event designed to bring couples together. Other events may be as simple as helping to provide ideas for Date Nights or short seminars on building marriage skills for couples.
3) Discipleship - Rob and Tula Young are in charge of this area of the Marriage Ministry team. They are leading in helping to recruit and form classes that will help in giving couples a Biblical foundation in their marriages.
Pastor Shawn Barnard continues his series, "We Do" with today's teaching service, "The Beautiful Fight". Christian marriages are not exempt from the struggles and pressures of day to day life and require time and strategic effort to be successful. When you add to the mix that we have an enemy who is actively seeking to steal and destroy our lives you end up with a great deal of external and internal pressures on husbands and wives just to survive. God, however, never intended for you to be defenseless in the face of the enemy's attacks and He has given us several tools to fight for our marriages. Join us today as Pastor Shawn shares from his marriage relationship as well as from God's Word on how to fight the Beautiful Fight.
In Your Singleness . . .
1. Do not seek out a mate. (1 Corinthians 7:27)
· Don’t rush into a relationship; rather find your identity in Christ as a son or daughter of God.
2. Fully devote yourself to faithfully make much of Jesus for the glory of God.(1 Corinthians 7:32, 34-35)
3. Daily surrender yourself to God’s plan rather than seeking to implement your plan.
4. If you’ve never been married, humbly acceptyour singleness as God’s gift. (1 Corinthians 7:7)
What You Need to Know Before You Marry . . .
1. Don’t invest in dating if you are not prepared to marry.
2. Marriage is a gift from God. (1 Corinthians 7:7)
3. Cohabitation is not God’s pre-marital plan.
o Commit yourselves to purity.
4. Because marriages are for reflecting the glory of God and displaying the gospel of Christ, it is imperative that your future mate is a follower of Christ.
o Do not date someone who does not share in your faith and values.
5. Marriage is for life.
Nehemiah 1:3-11, 4:1-9; Song of Songs 2:15
The Assessment . . .
· Right now our marriage is broken andit seems hopeless.
o Cry out to God in prayer.
o Confess sin.
o Stand on the truth of God’s word.
· Right now our marriage has breaches in it that need to be repaired and it seemsoverwhelming.
o Ask God to do what seems impossible.
o Identify the areas that need to be repaired.
o Join God in the work of repairing your marriage.
· Right now our marriage is steady, and it seems secure. (Song of Songs 2:15)
o Realize the enemy is always scheming against you.
o Remain constant in prayer.
o Stay guarded in every way.
The Need for Transformation . . .
v Regardless where you are in your marriage, it should constantly be transforming in a way that is conforming you to the image of Christ. (Romans 12:2)
And here’s why . . .
v Before God will transform your marriage, God must transform you from the inside-out.
· It is easy for us to look at our spouse and say, “You need to change.”
· It’s much more difficult to allow God to examine our heart, our motives, our attitudes, our actions, and hear Him say to us, “I need to change you.”
v When we allow God to change us from the inside out, we begin to view our mate in a much differentway.
· I see you as a child of God/creation of God vs. Youare my enemy.
· I want to serve you vs. I want you to serve me.
· I want to give you vs. I want you to give me.
· I want to honor you vs. I want you to honor me.
· I want to build you up vs. I want to tear you down.
· I want to show you love vs. I want you to show me love.
Truth Statement: Transformation in your marriage begins with transformation in you.
5 Keys for Transformation . . .
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Mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21-24; 1-6)
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Respectfulhonor (1 Peter 3:7)
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Sacrificial love (Ephesians 5:25-33)
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Undeserved grace (Ephesians 2:8-9)
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Christ-like forgiveness (Matthew 6:12; 18:21-35)
Unless The Lord Builds . . .
If there are any other means by which you are seeking to establish, repair, or rebuild your house, it will all be in vain. (Psalm 127:1)
Don’t Turn Away . . .
Marriages are in a state of crisis today.
· It is time to allow God to fix what has been broken for far too long.
· Marriages don’t erode or unravel overnight, and they aren’t repaired and restored instantly.
· There is hope for marriages.
Strong Houses . . .
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Your house will be built upon that which your life is built.
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The materials with which you are building will determine the strength of your house.
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The health and longevity of your house is dependent upon your investment in and care for your house.
God does not want us to settle for less than greatness. (Philippians 4:8-9)
· Don’t settle for a less than great relationship with God; pursue a great relationship with Him.
· Don’t settle for a less than great marriage; pursue a great marriage that is Christ-centered.
· Don’t settle for a less than great life; pursue a great God-glorifying life.
Making a shift is necessary because in a broken world there is constant movement toward decay and decline.
· From the order of God’s design, to the chaos caused by man’s rebellion. (Romans 8:22-25)
Shifting Gears . . .
Gear #1: Intentionality—I must be intentional, not passive.
Gear #2: Strategy—I must be strategic in how I shift from good to great.
Gear #3: Execution—I must do what it takes to pursue what is excellent.
Gear #4: Vision—I must be forward-thinking, not stuck in the past.
· You must determine the changes that need to be made . . .
o Some are incremental.
o Some are radical.
o All are necessary.
§ For health
§ For growth
§ For our pleasure in bringing God glory.
If we are going to be who God has called and created us to be, we can not settle for “good enough,” we must pursue excellence for the glory of God.
(Colossians 3:23; Phil. 4:8-9)
“Shift: Grinding the Gears”
Genesis 22:1-19
Tension . . .
In life God will lead us to a point of tension that requires us to make a shift.
· Abraham experienced a crisis of belief.
o Move beyond fear or become paralyzed by it.
§ Fear of losing a dream
§ Fear of a letting go of what’s familiar
§ Fear of the unknown
§ Fear of failure
§ Fear of _____________
o Trust the voice of the one who is leading you.
“When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.” Matthew 10:4
A major shift requires you to go with God, or you will “red line” your life.
· You can’t stay where you are and go with God.
o The tension will launch you or break you.
Trust . . .
In the major shifts in life you can trust the character of God.
· He always does what is right.
· He always does what is best.
· He always remains faithful.
God’s faithfulness in the past should give you confidence in His faithfulness today.
When I trust God by obediently making the shift to follow Him, God’s greatness and goodness are displayed.
· In my life personally.
· In the world.
o Abraham had no clue the full extent of God’s promise that his obedience would bring.
Instead of adjusting our life to what is resonating in culture, our primary concern and desire should be to adjust our life to what is resonating in the heart of God.
Is your greatest desire and ambition to be culturally relevant rather than spiritually vibrant?
· If we are culturally relevant without being spiritually vibrant, we have nothing to offer a world in need of what only Christ can give.
· We become spiritually vibrant when we allow the Spirit of God to work in and through us. (Philippians 2:12-18)
· When we allow God to work in us, we recognize His invitation to join Him at work in the world for His glory. (Acts 16:6-10)
A shift of perspective . . .
· From here-and-now to here-and-forever (Luke 12:15-21)
o “I live for the moment” or “I live in the moment with the end in mind”
· From status to significance (Philippians 3:3-12)
o “I live for the applause of others” or “I live for the glory of God”
· From selfishness to selflessness
o “I live for me” or “I have been bought with a price and I am not my own”
When Your Heart Is Lost In “Egypt” . . .
The direction in which I go reveals the condition of my heart and determines the destination of my life.
· A rebellious heart will always go in a direction opposite of God. (v.1, 2)
· An impatient heart devises a plan that is often convenient and impulsive. (v.1)
o Quick to listen to my logic rather than wait to hear God’s voice.
o Difficult circumstances will often press me into trusting God more, or planning my own way of escape or provision.
§ “To take refuge in the protection of Pharaoh . . .”
§ “To seek shelter in the shadow of Egypt!”
· A selfish heart often seeks to justify and disguise a selfish decision as spirit-led direction. (Isaiah 30:1; Proverbs 16:2)
What I Find In “Egypt” . . .
All that I believe will provide comfort and satisfaction will only produce restlessness and misery. (v.3-7)
A Life Surrendered to God . . .
A surrendered heart always trusts the sovereignty and character of God.
o I trust your word/voice. (Psalm 119:160)
o I trust your direction. (Psalm 119:105)
o I trust your timing. (Psalm 130:5)
o I trust your plan. (Jeremiah 29:11)
o I trust you completely. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Questions to Think On . . .
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What is the condition of my heart?
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Am I going down to “Egypt” rather than trusting God?
Pastor Shawn talks about the importance of sharing the joy of Jesus Christ with those around us. We are commanded to tell the story of Christ and His redemption of our sins with a world that is lost and looking for answers. Jesus Christ was sent by His Father to fulfill the mission of redeeming mankind from our sins. After this was accomplished Jesus told His disciples that their job was to tell others, make disciples and advance the Kingdom of God. 2000 years later our mission is the same. At Crossgate Church we are striving to be an epicenter of God's activitiy from which He will shake the nations for His glory. But you can't share what you don't have so in this message Pastor Shawn also stresses the importance of knowing that you are at peace with God Almighty.
We invite you to check out this message and share it with your friends and family!
Advent—The Great Joy of the Gospel
Luke 1:39-45; 2:8-14
There is an undeniable connection between God’s presence and true joy.
“You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest . . .” Isaiah 9:3
In Need of Joy . . .
Without Christ there is no hope, and without hope there is no joy.
The things of this world will never produce joy.
The Joy of His Presence . . .
The advent of Jesus was God’s gift of great joy. (Luke 1:39-45; 2:8-14)
o Where Christ is not present, there is no joy. (Isaiah 9:1-3)
o Where Christ is present, there is overwhelming joy. (Matthew 2:10)
The indwelling presence of Christ is the source of all joy. (Psalm 16:11; 37:4)
o Inexplicable joy is experienced when we are delighting and finding pleasure in Christ.
o All satisfying joy eludes us when we pursue the “lesser joys” of life.
o Sustaining joy is present even in times of sorrow. (2 Corinthians 6:10; John 16:16-22)
God’s Invitation to You . . .
God invites all, through His Son Jesus, to know the joy of His salvation.
o Without Christ, all is not right.
o In Christ, all is made right.
As we live between the first Advent (Jesus Birth on earth) and the second Advent (His Return to earth to Rule) do we live with an expectation for His retun? Are we obeying Him as we await His Second Coming?
Pastor Shawn explores these questions and more in this teaching service, "Advent - Preparation and Expectation"
Scripture references: 2nd Peter 3: 11 - 18 and Revelation 22: 6 - 21.
Advent Defined . . .
· Advent means arrival; appearance; coming
In Israel’s darkest days, God offered hope through the promised coming of Messiah (the Christ).
· Israel experienced destruction (Isaiah 6:9-13)
· Israel was distressed, wandering in darkness and the gloom of anguish (Isaiah 8:20-22)
· God promised the Messiah who would come. (Isaiah 6:9-13; 9:1-7; 11:1-5)
The coming of Messiah would be the hope for all people. (Romans 15:8-13)
· His coming would show God’s truthfulness to Israel. (“the root of Jesse will come”)
· His coming would fulfill the promises given to the patriarchs.
· His coming would reveal His mercy for all people.
The Hope of Advent . . .
· In your darkest of days there is hope, yet not without Christ.
“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope . . .” 1 Timothy 1:1
o Jesus Christ is the only hope for all people in all places.
· Hope will abound in you when, by faith, you trust in Him as your hope of salvation.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13
The Question You Must Answer . . .
What hope do I have?
Join with us as Pastor Shawn concludes his teaching series, "UNdeniable" with this service.
"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error." - 1 John Chapter 4: 1-6
1 Thessalonians 5:17
What does it mean?
*Carry a spirit of complete dependence upon God.
*Engage in a continuous conversation with God.
*Never give up praying.
Why is this hard?
*Because we are busy.
*Because we can be lazy.
*Because it is a learned behavior.
How can we do this?
*By the grace of God.
*With the Spirit of God.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray without ceasing. (ESV)
Pray constantly. (HCSB)
Pray continually. (NIV)
Pray all the time. (Message)
Never stop praying. (NLT, NIRV)
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Daniel 6:10 (ESV).
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Luke 18:1 (ESV)
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Luke 11:1 (ESV)
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“One of the great uses of Twitter and Facebook will be to prove at the Last Day that prayerlessness was not from lack of time.” --John Piper
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Romans 8:26-27
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Ephesians 6:17-18
Student Pastor Joel Owen talks to us about the importance of weighing all of the costs before following Jesus Christ. In the Book of Luke, Chapter 14 verses 26 - 33, Jesus tells two parables that illustrate the things we need to consider when it comes to following Him. Through both of these illustrations He causes us to truly think if we are willing to be true disciples of His Kingdom. Being a disciple (follower) of Jesus means I make Him first above everything and everyone else. We invite you to listen to this audio podcast that helps us better understand the costs as well as the benefits of following Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
Join us as Missionaries from around the world talk about their experiences and opportunities as they serve on the front lines of the battle for eternal souls. They talk about their needs and challenges and discuss how we as a church as well as individuals can help in their efforts.The harvest is ready and the workers are few . . .
If you ever wondered about what it would be like to go on a mission trip as well as how you can support missionaries in the field, then we invite you to listen to this audio podcast. Our prayer is that God would speak through these words and show you His desire for your life in regard to being on mission for Him.
Join us as Crossgate members talk about their experiences going on mission projects last summer. We had two trips to Ecuador, as well as Boston and Thailand. If you ever wondered about what it would be like to go on a mission trip we invite you to listen to this audio podcast. Our prayer is that God would speak through these words and show you His desire for your life in regard to being on mission for Him.
1 John 3:1-24
God’s Indescribable Love . . .
· To reject Christ is to not know the indescribable love of God.
· To know Christ is to be loved by God with an inexplicable love. (v.1)
“See what kind of love the Father has given to us . . .” (ESV)
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us . . .” (NIV)
· To be loved by God as His child gives us an unwavering and confident hope. (v.3)
As Children of God . . .
1. You pursue holiness. (v. 3)
As true followers of Christ, our pursuit is righteousness and the direction of our life is toward holiness. (1 Peter 1:16; Romans 8:5-11)
2. You don’t practice sinning. (vv.4-9)You don’t practice sinning because . . .
· As true believers, we are not indifferent to the truth of God’s Word. (v.4)
· As true believers, sin does not reign in us. (Romans 6:12)
· As true followers of Christ, the life of God abides in us. (v.9)
3. You love one another. (vv.10b-18)
· We are able to love others because God loved us first. (1 John 5:7, 11)
· We show people evidence of God when we love others. (1 John 4:12)
4. You are sealed by His Spirit. (v.24)
My Response . . .
1 John 2:18-27
Truth Statement:
It is critical in these days to be able to discern between truth and deception.
The Great Deception . . .
· The Antichrist who will come: he is called the Son of Destruction; man of lawlessness; defies God; controlled by Satan; the final antichrist; denies the Father and the Son. (1 John 2:22; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12)
· The antichrists who now have come: those who profess that Jesus is not from God; deny the deity of Jesus; liars and deceivers. (1 John 4:3; 2 John 7; 1 John 2:22)
o “they”—those within the church or Christian community who were imposters. (1 John 2:19)
§ The spirit of antichrist denies that Jesus is the Christ and that Jesus is God. (v. 22-23a)
Implication: Those within the Church are not necessarily true followers of Christ.
The Truth . . .
· True followers of Christ are anointed by the Holy Spirit.
o The Spirit of God enables us to know the knowledge of truth. (v. 20-21)
o The Spirit of God enables us to practice righteousness. (v. 29)
Imperatives:
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Abide in the word.
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Abide in Christ.
Questions to Answer . . .
· What is the evidence of your life that affirms you are in Christ?
· Are you abiding in the word of God so that you might be able to discern what is a lie?
1 John 2:12-17
Truth Statement:
God does not call us to walk in a way that He does not empower us, by His word and His Spirit, to walk.
Overcoming the Evil One . . .
Overcoming the evil one does not happen apart from being strong in Christ and abiding in the word of God. (v.14)
· Satan will come at you with accusations, therefore be strong in Christ and know the Word.
· Satan will seek to tempt you, therefore be strong in Christ and know the Word.
Overcoming the World . . .
Do not love the world, but love the Word.
· That which you love the most, and that which you fix your gaze and affections on will win your love.
My Response . . .
Pastor Shawn continues his series on 1st John by teaching us that the light within us is always greater than the darkness we face. If we are truly followers of Jesus Christ than the hope that He has given us will help not only sustain us but allow us to be victorious over our circumstances. Remember, our faith in Jesus Christ should be UNdeniable in its nature and a clear witness to His grace and His love that resides in each of us.
Pastor Shawn starts his new series on 1st John by illustrating the importance of living bodly what we believe. We proudly proclaim our allegiance to our favorite sports team, movies, music, etc. but do we just as proudly declare our allegiance to God? Our faith in Jesus Christ should be UNdeniable in its nature and by that definition will also be a clear witness to His grace and the change that His love has made in each one of us.
Joshua 1:1-9; 4:1-24
Leaving a Legacy . . .
· We must move beyond the past.
o Remember the past, but don’t live in it.
· We must move forward in obedience.
o The greatest hindrance to obedience in the moment is a life stuck in the past.
· We must go with God and not with man.
o We can be confident in moving forward because we know, as we obediently go with God, He is with us.
· We must embrace God’s Word with conviction and courage.
o Lasting legacies are built on truth and the courage to live it out.
· We must leave a legacy that points to what only God has done. (4:23-24)
Questions to Consider . . .
What of our legacy is so obvious that it begs the question from the world, “What does this mean?”
Will our response promote the transcendent cause of the gospel of Christ, and reflect a life lived in awe?
Psalm 51
Truth Statement:
God desires to redeem my brokenness by His immeasurable grace to display His matchless glory.
· Brokenness remains until I willingly acknowledge my sinfulness and my need to be saved.
o God delights in our authenticity. (Psalm 51:6)
· Brokenness must be surrendered to the God who redeems and restores what has been shattered by sin.
o God does not discard brokenness that is surrendered, but shapes the pieces of our life into a portrait of His grace.
Three Truths to Hold On To . . .
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I am not so broken that I am beyond the reach of His love and mercy.
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I am not so broken that I cannot be restored by the gospel of His grace.
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I am not so broken that Christ cannot use me for His glory.
· The mosaic of Abraham’s life.
· The mosaic of David’s life.
· The mosaic of Mary Magdalene’s life.
· The mosaic of the woman at the well.
· The mosaic of Paul’s life.
· The mosaic of my life.
Pastor Shawn's topic for today is "Why Kids Matter." In today's culture the value and importance of children is declining. When a society determines that children are disposable before they are born, that same society also diminishes the value of children who are fortunate enough to be born. Kids are often left to fend for themselves even in such basic needs as safety, food and housing. Education has sometimes become a battlefield where morals, money and self-interest all collide. Technology becomes a substitute for parenting as entertainment and distractions are easily found. Yet God's Word clearly defines that children are a gift from Him and that we are to protect, provide and teach our children the values that God has passed down through the generations. We encourage you to learn more about our Student and Children Ministries by listening to this podcast.
Scripture References: Genesis 1; Genesis 2:18; John 17:20-26
Truth Statement:
It is not good to be alone. (Genesis 2:18)
· God values relationships.
In the Beginning . . .
· Community (Relational oneness)
· Trinity
o Father
o Son
o Holy Spirit
· Humanity
o I have been created in the image of God to express the essence of His character.
Broken Community . . .
Because of sin, our relationship (community) with God was broken. (Ephesians 2:12-13)
Restored Community . . .
Jesus came to restore us to a right relationship (community) with God.
· Through Christ (Romans 5:6-11)
· By His Spirit
Community as a Witness to the World . . . (John 17:20-26)
· Christ in me.
· We in Christ. (Colossians 3:12-17)
o Prayer
o Word
o Worship
o Fellowship
o Sharing
· That the world may know Christ. (John 17:23)
So What? . . .
Biblical community is a visible expression of the gospel of grace and our God-designed purpose.
Scripture References: Genesis 1; Genesis 2:18; John 17:20-26
Truth Statement:
It is not good to be alone. (Genesis 2:18)
· God values relationships.
In the Beginning . . .
· Community (Relational oneness)
· Trinity
o Father
o Son
o Holy Spirit
· Humanity
o I have been created in the image of God to express the essence of His character.
Broken Community . . .
Because of sin, our relationship (community) with God was broken. (Ephesians 2:12-13)
Restored Community . . .
Jesus came to restore us to a right relationship (community) with God.
· Through Christ (Romans 5:6-11)
· By His Spirit
Community as a Witness to the World . . . (John 17:20-26)
· Christ in me.
· We in Christ. (Colossians 3:12-17)
o Prayer
o Word
o Worship
o Fellowship
o Sharing
· That the world may know Christ. (John 17:23)
So What? . . .
Biblical community is a visible expression of the gospel of grace and our God-designed purpose.
Pastor Shawn is bringing us a series designed to remind and refresh us of the vision and values that Crossgate Church embraces. Last week he covered the vision that God has given Crossgate Church and this week Pastor Shawn starts his series on our Core Values, who and what we are as members of Crossgate Church. The first core value is Life Change because without giving our lives over to our Creator, we cannot be about His work and vision.
Pastor Shawn talks about the importance of being an epicenter in whatever position or place that God has planted you. He has a strategic plan for advancing His Kingdom and you and I are the instruments that He uses to accomplish this mission. Just as God gives us as individuals a vision and a mission for our lives so He has given our Church. Pastor shares about the corporate vision that God has given the leadership and body to accomplish the specific tasks that God has laid before us. We invite you to listen and ask God for wisdom and details about your individual vision and mission and if you are a member of Crossgate the part you are to play in our Church vision and mission.
Student Pastor Joel Owen talks to us about what the Bible teaches about controlling or rather the lack of control we have over our own lives. When we made the decision to obey and follow Jesus Christ, we gave up ownership of our own lives and gave Him the keys. As we all can attest, this is a daily (sometimes hourly) decision that we have to affirm because Jesus is too gracious to force His will upon us if we choose to retake control. However, there is a high price to be paid for claiming something that no longer belongs to us. Learn how and why this is such a fundamental foundational truth for living out our Christian faith in this teaching message.
Psalm 55:1-22
David is under a full frontal attack in this passage and the weapons of war are words. But we’re surprised to find that David’s attacker is his close friend!
(vs 12-14; 20-21)
Being wounded by a friend is a big problem. But the bigger problem is some people never heal from the wounds. And when we don’t heal from the wounds, they get deeper or we develop new wounds… or worse yet, we begin wounding other people!
Hurting people hurt people.
How do we, as brothers and sisters, who will occasionally hurt one another, deal with the hurt?
- Do what is in your power to bring peace to the situation. (Romans 12:17-21; Psalm 55:6-8)
· Refuse to throw the spear!
- Understand who our true enemy is! (Ephesians 6:10-13)
· We tend to look at life more through our mortal eyes than our eternal, spiritual eyes.
- Strive for reconciliation and peace.
(Acts 15:36-41; 2 Timothy 4:9-11; Matthew 5:23-24)
In todays teaching, Pastor Shawn's topic is "The Visual Gospel". In our services today we witnessed people getting baptized, we took the Lord's Supper together and Pastor Shawn then clearly taught us about what is means to be saved using God's Word to walk us through the steps and decisions required to make this eternal decision. So if you or someone you know is struggling to understnad what it means to be a Christ follower this is the service they need to hear! Share this Good News with others as you then become an epicenter for His Grace and Glory.
Pastor Shawn concludes his series on the Book Of Songs and what God says about love, marriage, relationships and commitment. This service talks about the picture of marriage as God intended it, forever in His eyes and the stamp of forever love that He has imprinted on each of our hearts as one of His children.
Song of Solomon 5:2-6:12
Truth Statements:
· Conflict is inevitable in marriage.
o I am a sinner.
· Conflict happens because we feel wronged, or our desires and needs have not been met.
o We are hurt
o Lack of communication
o Unmet expectations
Navigating through conflict in a Christ-honoring way . . .
- Always pursue reconciliation, not retaliation.
• When it comes to conflict within the marriage the goal is not to win the fight, but to reconcile the relationship. (Ephesians 5:25-33)
§ Speak the truth (Ephesians 4:15)
• Prayerfully examine your heart first (Matthew 7:4)
• Keep your motives in check
• Choose your timing carefully
§ Speak in love (Ephesians 4:29)
- Determine to resolve conflict quickly, but not superficially.
• Unresolved conflict results in an undercurrent of bitterness and resentment. (Ephesians 4:26-27)
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Be humble in seeking forgiveness and gracious in granting forgiveness. (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-15)
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Be committed to the covenant you have made with each other. (Song of Solomon 5:16; 6:3)
“Sacred Love”
Song of Solomon 3:6-5:1
"Celebration"
The Wedding Day . . .
· This is a sacred celebration. (3:6-7a)
o It is pleasing to God
o It is an expression of the gospel story
o It is a public declaration
· She feels a sense of security. (3:7-8)
o She feels safe with him
o He is her shade, and his fruit is sweet to her
o He provides for her (3:9-10)
· He gives her his best.
o All he has is hers.
Later that Night . . .
· He speaks to her. (4:1)
· He notices her beauty. (4:1-7)
o Eyes
o Hair
o Mouth/Lips
o Cheeks
o Neck
o Breasts
o “ . . .there is no flaw in you.”
· He creates an environment of intimacy that is safe and gentle. (4:8-15)
o Patience and gentleness
· They enjoy the pleasure of sexual intimacy. (4:11, 16-5:1)
o God created sex to be pleasurable, passionate, and enjoyable within the context of marriage.
“Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth, a lovely deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight; be intoxicated always in her love.” Proverbs 5:18-19
“Sex is like a thermometer in marriage, not a thermostat, in that it measures the health of your intimacy rather than sets it.”
Song of Solomon 2:8-3:5
From Desire to Adoration . . .
For Her
There is a sense of excitement and anticipation in hearing his voice and being in his presence.
For Him
- There is a strong desire to be with and pursue her.
· He takes the initiative; He is the pursuer.
· It is a desire, not an obligation.
In Dating or Courtship . . .
· Is our dating relationship right biblically?
· Is our dating relationship honoring Christ?
· Do we have the same essential beliefs?
· Does he/she know Christ and is he/she growing as a follower of Jesus?
· Does he honor me? Does she honor me?
· Do we have fun with one another?
· Can we accept each other’s faults?
· Do we desire to spend our lives with each other for life?
· Am I ready to be in serious relationship?
Dating should grow you, not drain you.
In Marriage . . .
· Are you still dating your spouse?
· Does your relationship communicate desire or obligation?
- There is a strong desire to know her intimately, which involves vulnerability.
· You will love only as deeply as you are willing to be vulnerable (trust).
o What are you doing to show her you are deserving of her trust?
· For those who are dating, as you become vulnerable, guard what is pure.
· Awakening love too soon will destroy intimacy. (2:15)
For Her and Him . . .
There is a strong level of commitment to one another. (2:16)
Final Thoughts . . .
Treasuring Christ (2013)
Matthew 6:19-21
So, where’s your heart? And what is your heart’s treasure?
Philippians 3:7-11
To Treasure Christ means . . .
· I trust Him completely.
“But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” Philippians 3:7
· I treasure Him above all things.
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Philippians 3:8a
· I gain more than I lose.
“For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish in order that I may gain Christ,” Philippians 3:8b
· I pursue to know Him.
“ . . . that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and may share in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.” Philippians 3:10-11
When I Treasure Christ . . .
· You find life, and what it truly means to live. (Matthew 16:25)
o Because Jesus gives what people and things can’t.
· You find all satisfying joy. (2 Corinthians 8:1-5)
o Because Jesus is better.
§ Put Him up against anything and He’s better.
§ Hold loosely the things of this world that you might strongly embrace the treasure of Christ.
The All Important Question . . .
What is the treasure I’m choosing to embrace?
Truth Statement:
You can’t hold on to the trinkets of this world and embrace the treasure of Christ.
· In other words . . . you can’t hold on to the small things of this world and embrace the bigness of God.
Song of Solomon 1:1-2:7
What She Sees in Him . . .
His love is intoxicating. (v.2)
His character is appealing and compelling. (v.3)
o Renown
o Adored by others (v.3b)
o Irresistible (v.4)
What She Sees in Herself . . .
She is not impressed with her looks, but she is secure. (vv.5-6)
She is a woman with unwavering convictions. (v.7)
What He Sees in Her . . .
He sees a beauty that is more than just physical.
He sees her worth and value. (vv.9-10, 15, 2:2)
o Others notice (v.11)
He sees a woman who is incomparable among all others.
o His focus of attention and affection is on her alone.
How She Responds . . .
She views him as a gift and a pleasure.
She feels honored.
She feels valued. (2:1)
She feels safe in his presence. (2:3)
She feels sincerely loved. (2:4)
She expresses a desire for physical intimacy.
Final Thoughts . . .
Pastor Shawn introduces his new teaching series, "Sacred Love - A Study Of The Book The Song Of Solomon.
Pastor Shawn brings us a special Mother's Day teaching about the sometimes unhearalded, behind the scenes, difficult but ultimate reward of being a mom. Mother's Day can be a difficult day for many and Pastor Shawn reminds us of the need to be senstive to those around us who are hurting during not only this holiday but everyday. Pastor Shawn also talks about the special calling of a parent and references parenting to building a great cathederal, stone by stone, behind a curtain where very few will see the time and struggle neccessary to even lay the foundation for this wonderful creation. But God knows, and He recognizes and will reward all of the time and resources and prayers that go into forging a child into a true follower of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Shawn brings us this last message in the Experiencing God Together series that has ran parallel with our Experiencing God Together small group studies. He reminds us that the world is watching our lives for a glimpse of the God that we serve. Are we being obedient to Jesus Christ and His commandments for our lives? For only by placing Jesus first in our lives will we then display the fruit of the Spirit that will attract men to God and salvation.
Pastor Shawn completes his mini-series on the Holy Spirit and His role in our lives. Learn the importance of obeying Christ and thus allow the work of God to be fulfilled in each of our lives versus disobeying Christ and grieving the Holy Spirit which results in the loss of God's power in our lives and relationships. It is His desire that we consistently serve Him on a daily basis and advance His Kingdom under the direction of the Holy Spirit and His power to change our lives and the world around us.
Worship Pastor Rob Young talks to us about the importance of putting Jesus Christ first in all things in our life. If Jesus Christ is our Lord than we will obey His commandments and one of those commandments is to "Go". Go and take the good news to all of the world. We invite you to listen to this podcast and discover where God is directing you to go and share His gospel of good news!
Back to the Beginning . . .
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” (Genesis 1:1-2)
Who the Spirit is NOT . . .
· The Holy Spirit is not an “it.”
· The Holy Spirit is not impersonal.
Who the Spirit IS . . .
· The Holy Spirit is “He,” which means he is personal.
· The Holy Spirit is relational
· The Holy Spirit is fully God as expressed in the doctrine of the Trinity.
o God the Father (Genesis 1:1)
o God the Son (Genesis 1:26; Colossians 1:15-19)
o God the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:2, 26)
· The Holy Spirit is God’s personal presence actively and powerfully at work in the world to give form to creation, to bring spiritual life to those who are spiritually dead, to fulfill the purposes of God, and give evidence of God’s glory.
Creation to Form . . .
God brings light and form to the void and darkness. (Genesis 1:1-31)
The Spirit of Life . . .
God’s Spirit gives life to all. (Genesis 1:26-31; 2:7; Psalm 104:30; Job 33:4; Romans 8:10-11)
· “Ruach”—wind; breath; spirit
The Purposes of God . . .
The Holy Spirit actively and powerfully fulfills the purposes of God.
· Examples: Luke 1:8-17 (John the Baptist); Luke 1:26-35 (Mary)
The Evidence of God’s Glory . . .
· The baptism of Christ (Luke 3:21-22)
· The witness of the believers (Acts)
· The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
Romans 6:1-14
If Jesus overcame that I might overcome, then why do I still feel as though I can’t overcome sin in my life?
One of two answers . . .
· I do not know Christ; therefore, I am still in my sins.
o I am spiritually dead. (Ephesians 2:1-3; Colossians 2:13-14)
o His Spirit does not dwell in me.
o I am helplessly and hopelessly in bondage to sin.
· I am in Christ, but sin reigns in me.
“Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions.” (Romans 6:12)
What must I do to overcome?
1. I must completely surrender to Christ.
· Not a conditional surrender, but unconditional.
o We come to Christ on His terms, not ours.
2. I must know the truth of God’s Word. (John 8:31-32; Psalm 119:11)
· God’s Word is always more than sufficient for the moments and circumstances of life.
· Your life will be saturated by what your heart is immersed in.
3. I must completely obey God’s Word. (Luke 11:28; John 14:15; James 2:22)
· Daily surrender (Luke 9:23; Romans 6:12-13)
· Daily subversion (Proverbs 14:12; Proverbs 12:15; Romans 6:20-23)
4. I must completely rely on the power of God’s Spirit at work in me. (Galatians 5:16-24; Ephesians 3:14-21)
I must surrender . . .
"overcome"
past participle of o·ver·come (Verb) To Succeed in dealing with (a problem or difficulty). To Defeat (an opponent); prevail: "they overcame the guards"; "we shall overcome". Synonyms overpower -vanquish - conquer - defeat . . .
Over 2,000 years ago a man named Jesus Christ accomplished the greatest act of unselfishness that history has ever recorded. He didn't just give up His life for another, He gave up us life for us all. When He died, so did our sin punishment, our guilt and our inability to have a relationship with our Creator to name just a few. In short, He died so that we could have life. So that we could enjoy life. So that we could "Overcome".
He Overcame . . . So That We Could Overcome
Experiencing God Together - LOVE
Matthew 22:34-40; John 13:33-35; Revelation 2:1-7
The Greatest Commandment . . . (Matthew 22:34-40)
- Love God—“and you shall love the Lord your God . . .”
o Heart—my emotions
o Soul—my life
o Mind—intellect; understanding; insight
It Looks like . . .
o Obeying His commandments (John 14:15, 21)
o Keeping His Word (John 14:23-24)
o Denying self (surrender) and following Jesus (Luke 9:23)
- Love People—“and you shall love your neighbor as yourself . . .”
Truth Statement:
God’s redemptive message hangs upon these two realities.
A New Commandment . . . (John 13:34-35)
· Love one another so that the world will know that you are a disciple of Jesus.
“If I speak in the tongues of men and angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging symbol.” 1 Corinthians 13:1
The Warning . . . (Revelation 2:1-7)
· Pursuing what is good and right does not produce a love for God. However, pursuing a love relationship with God produces a desire for what is good and right.
Truth Statement:
Right actions, without love, is pious moralism.
Pastor Shawn continues the series "What's Next?" that is explaining the importance of listening to God and His commandments, not only in our individual lives but in the life of our church as well. God has brought each one of us to this church body to accomplish His will and since Jesus Christ is the head of our church we take our orders and direction from Him. So it is vital that we all are listening, praying and obeying so that His church can be the church He wants it to be.
Pastor Shawn continues the series that Joel Owen started last week by asking the question, "What's Next?" After a mountaintop experience like the Experiencing God Weekend where do we go from here? We invite you to listen to this audio podcast as Pastor Shawn explains how to listen and follow God's directions for not only our individual lives but our church body as well.
Student Pastor Joel Owen talks to us about what are the next steps following our Experiencing God Together weekend on February 15th - 17th. God moved in a powerful way within our church body and we want to be obedient to His next steps in regard to leading His Church. We invite you to listen to this insightful message on listening and obeying God's commands for His Church and our lives.
This service on February 17th, 2013 was the culmination of our Experiencing God Together weekend. Guest speaker, Mel Blackaby and a team of over 70 people from around the nation helped lead and guide our church body through the Experiencing God Together course.
Exodus 19:1-20
The Simple Truth:
God’s desire is to meet with you.
If God desires for me to encounter Him, then what am I supposed to do?
- I must prepare myself for an encounter with God.
- You may desire an encounter with God, but are you prepared for such a moment?
- Confession and Repentance
- “consecrate them . . . let them wash their garments and be ready for the third day.” (Exodus 19:10-11)
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Matthew 3:1-2
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God’s response—“For on the third day the Lord will come down . . .” (v.11b)
Questions to Ask God as I Prepare My Heart . . .
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Is my affection and allegiance being given to someone or something else?
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Am I elevating someone or something as an idol, and bending my knee and bowing my heart to?
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Am I vainly speaking or reflecting, God’s name rather than revering Him?
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Am I finding pleasure in God by resting in Him? Am I observing Sabbath rest?
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Am I honoring those in authority?
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Is there hate or anger in my heart towards someone or God?
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Is there lust in my heart?
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Am I taking that which is not mine?
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Am I deceiving for personal gain or to make myself look better?
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Am I desiring and longing for what is not mine? Is it consuming my life?
James 5:13-20
Real Praying, Real Practical . . .
· When I am suffering because of the trials of this life, my first response should be to pray. (v. 13)
The truth is that many times we pray after we’ve gone through the checklist of options that don’t work.
Truth Statement:
Prayer is undervalued and underestimated as a true and viable solution to everyday problems.
· Whether I’m suffering or full of joy, my response should always be God-directed in prayer and praise.
Too Weak and Exhausted to Pray . . .
· Spiritual weakness should not keep me from praying; it should compel me to ask for spiritual leadership to come alongside me and pray. (James 5:14-16; 1 Peter 5:1-11)
o Prayer strengthens those who are weak. (Hebrews 12:3; Revelation 2:3)
o Prayer restores those who are exhausted.
o Prayer brings about confession of sin that may be contributing to spiritual weakness.
o Prayer is powerfully effective.
How Am I to Respond to What God has Spoken?
Pastor Shawn brings us a message reminding us that all that all good things are a gift from God. He blesses us with these gifts so that in turn we will use those same gifts to help others, revealing the mark of being a Christ follower. And in this truth resides a great freedom . . . freedom from worry, freedom from stress, freedom from debt and much more. One liberating freedom is that God himself is the owner and master of all that we have and He knows our needs far better than we do. So let's start leaving the mark of God by using all the talents, time and resources that He has given us to show His love to this world!
James 5:7-11
“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted . . .”
2 Timothy 3:12
“Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.” John 15:20a
James 5:7-11
Truth Statement:
The hope of what awaits us in the Second Coming of Christ sustains us in suffering that we might persevere with joy through suffering.
In the days of suffering . . .
· Be patient in suffering. (Isaiah 53:7-9; Galatians 6:9)
· Remain steadfast in suffering. (Hebrews 12:2-3)
· Resist grumbling in your suffering. (Isaiah 53:7-9; James 5:9; 1 Peter 3:8-17)
o Instead, glorify God in the name of Christ. (1 Peter 4:16)
· Remember God’s sovereignty in your suffering. (Genesis 50:20; James 5:11)
James 4:1-12
Who is James talking to? . . .
· Those whose faith is genuine.
· Those whose faith is fake.
What is James saying? . . .
When I pursue the things of this world by making them the object of my affection, conflict is inevitable.
“Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Matthew 6:24
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.” 1 John 2:15-16
“But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.” Revelation 2:4 (speaking to the church in Ephesus)
Selfish pride, manifested in choosing my way over God’s, is always the source of conflict.
· Conflict with others.
“What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? (v.1a)
· Conflict within myself.
“Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?”
· Conflict with God.
“Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4b
James’ godly counsel . . .
1. Submit yourself before God, that you might receive grace.
2. Resist the devil, and he must retreat.
3. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.
4. Be broken in repentance.
James 3:1-12
Get A Grip . . .
To get a grip on your tongue, you’ve got to gauge your heart.
The overflow of your heart is always consistent with and indicative of the spiritual condition of your heart.
Illus.: Matthew 12:33-37
Your mouth will overflow with what is settling in your heart.
A Word of Caution . . .
· Don’t let circumstances dictate the content or direct the course of your words.
“Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.” James 3:4-5
· The words you speak will be destructive or constructive; they will bless or curse.
“How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! . . .(v.8) It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing.” James 3:5, 8-10
Your words are like arrows . . . they kill at a distance.
“They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows.” Psalm 64:3 (New Living Translation)
· The place that our words tend to be most toxic and destructive are in the places where we let down the defenses that tend to hold back what’s really in our heart.
James 3:10
Words of Grace . . .
A heart transformed, by the power of God’s Word and the working of His Spirit, is the key to speaking words of grace and life. (James 3:11-12)
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Colossians 4:6
· Speak words that are honest, yet with grace.
· Speak words that preserve a person’s life, not ruin it.
· Speak words that promote healing, not pain.
The Take Away . . .
Do the words I speak give life or take life?
Are the words I speak being dictated and directed by my circumstances, or by a heart that is being transformed by the Word of God?
Are the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart pleasing to God?
Another in Pastor Shawn's series titled, "The Gift". Pastor Shawn reminds us of the gift of Jesus Christ who laid down all that He was to become flesh and the sacrifice that enables us to have eternal life. What does God want from us in return? What kind of gift can we give God? Check out this podcast for the answers to these and other questions.
The Gift - Compassion
Micah 7:18-20
When I am for God’s glory and the Gospel compassion is my response to a world in need.
Jesus As Our Example . . .
“When He (Jesus) went ashore He saw a great crowd, and He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And He began to teach them many things.” Mark 6:34
“When He went ashore He saw a great crowd, and He had compassion on them and healed their sick.” Matthew 14:14
“And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.’” Luke 7:13
Luke 10:25-37
Truth Statement:
Compassion becomes the overflowing activity of a heart that is moved as a result of living with eyes wide open to the great need of people and the hope of the gospel.
· Compassion is stirred when the activity of God is at work in the life of a Christ-follower.
· Compassion cannot be suppressed within a person who lives with eyes wide open and sees the great need of people.
· Compassion is most compassionate when what we do seeks to change someone’s eternal destiny not just the moment.
James 4:13-16
The Gift of Time . . .
Time is not something you can make more of, earn or buy; it is a gift from God.
· You can take it for granted.
o Waste your life
· You can use it for God’s glory.
o Change the world
Time is brief in this life so you must make the most of time.
“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
The Truth About Time . . .
· What I do with my time says more about me than I realize.
o It exposes arrogance or humility.
§ My will vs. God’s will
o It reveals what I value.
o It communicates what I believe about eternity.
Two Important Questions . . .
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To what do I give my time?
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How do I determine to what I will give my time?
Truth Statement:
God’s gift to you is time so that you may do His will and bring Him much glory.
James 2:14-26
Two Key Questions that James asks . . .
- “What good is faith without works?”
- “Can that faith save him?”
Implication:
Workless faith is worthless faith. In other words, it gives evidence that your faith is dead.
The Truth About Faith . . .
• Intellectual faith doesn’t save you.
• Emotional faith doesn’t save you.
• Saving (real) faith is what saves you.
What Saving (Real) Faith Looks Like . . .
• Understanding that I am a sinner in need of forgiveness.
• Placing my complete faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin.
• Receiving His righteousness by grace through faith.
• Displaying the righteousness of Christ as I live for Him.
Truth Statement . . .
The validity of your faith is revealed by the evidence of your faith.
• A transformed heart leads to Christ-like works, which displays a faith that brings much glory to God.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Going Deeper This Week . . .
• Read Romans 4 and 5. Abraham was justified by faith that resulted in works of righteousness.
• Read Genesis 15:1-6 (notice Abram’s faith in God that justified him)
• Read Genesis 22:1-19 (notice Abraham’s faith expressed in obedience to God that was a witness to those with him)
• Read Joshua 2:1-11 and see why Rahab hid the spies. (Notice verse 11)
Christians must make the transition from knowing and doing the will of God as individuals to knowing and doing the will of God within a corporate body of believers. Today we are proud to have special guest speakers Don Gibson and Bob Payne to help us understand this principle of God's Kingdom as well as prepare us for our Experiencing God Together weekend coming up in February 2013. This weekend will help our church experience the fullness of life as a congregation, a manifest presence of God in our midst, and a love that could only come from above.
Pastor Shawn continues his series, Real Life: A Study of the Book of James, and this week the subject is Real Mercy. This week's message is from James, chapter 2, verses 1-13.
2 My brothers,a]" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">[a] A)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, B)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” C)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” 4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become D)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers, E)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be F)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">rich in faith and heirs of G)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">the kingdom, H)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">which he has promised to those who love him? 6 But youI)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">have dishonored the poor man. Are not the rich the ones who oppress you, and the ones who J)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">drag you K)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">into court? 7 Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable L)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">name by which you were called?
8 If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, M)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">“You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. 9 But if you N)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point O)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">has become accountable for all of it. 11 For he who said, P)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">“Do not commit adultery,” also said, Q)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">“Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12 So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under R)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">the law of liberty. 13 For S)" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Pastor Shawn shares from the Bible the importance of voting with prayerful and obedient hearts so that the Kingdom of God is advanced here on earth through our decisions and actions. Join us as Pastor Shawn also compares the positions of both of the presidential canidates on Biblical issues of great importance to our nation. Running time: 49:49 (128K)
Guest Speaker, Dr. Richard Ross talking about the importance of parents in mentoring and discipling their children for Jesus Christ.
First Steps: The First Steps Milestone helps parents understand their role as the primary faith trainer in their home.
Transform: The Transform Milestone celebrates a person who places his or her faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins leading to salvation.
The Jump: The Jump Milestone is designed to help equip parents to go through the transition into adolescence smoothly while maintaining the spiritual and relational connections with their child that are so valuable during these years.
Rite of Passage: Our culture doesn’t have a clear marker for indicating adulthood. During the high school years parents will help their child understand and embrace what biblical manhood and womanhood look like.
Go! Crossgate- Family Edition: Families serving on mission together is an important aspect of growing in Christ and gaining a Christian worldview.
Senior Summit: Each year Crossgate Student Ministry will recognize the achievements of those graduating from High School in a Church Event called Senior Summit.
The Journey: Every member of Crossgate Church and the family of God is expected to be on a lifelong journey with Christ called, “discipleship.” The Journey is our continuing path of training Christ followers to abide in Christ as well as preparing them to disciple other believers along the way.
In this teaching service, Pastor Shawn Barnard, Worship Pastor Rob Young and Student Pastor Joel Owen discuss the different seasons of life and what God's Word teaches about not just surviving but thriving in each season of life that we are in.
There are no sermon notes for this service.
Really it was God’s plan!
Gen 2:18, Gen 2:22-25
So that married couples might…
1) Reproduce the image of God.
Gen 1:26-28
2) Illustrate Christ and the church.
Ephesians 5:32, Ephesians 5:22-33, Rev 19:7, Rev 21:9
3) Be complete in Christ.
Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Peter 3:1-9
Resources you might find helpful:
Books:
Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs
Moments with You by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
The Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal
FamilyLife Bible Study for Couples by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
Websites:
www.familylife.com while there search the Key Word FAMILY MANIFESTO
www.smartstepfamilies.com
www.focusonthefamily.com
www.shop.familylife.com click on MARRIAGE
www.couplecheckup.com
On this podcast Pastor Shawn brings us the annual state of the church service. Pastor shares with us the message that God has placed on his heart to encourage, correct and teach the members of Crossgate Church. We encourage you to listen to this podcast and discover the message that God wants to communicate to all of us to help advance His Kingdom here on earth.
James 1:19-25
A Practical Truth About Real Life . . .
The real wisdom that you need to navigate the trials and temptations of this real life is found in receiving and practicing the truth of God’s Word.
The reading of God’s Word is not enough; it must be received. (Matthew 13:1-9)
Receiving the Word . . .
1. Be quick to hear the word of truth. (James 1:19)
· “quick to hear”—literally means eager to hear the Word; be quick to the hearing of the lesson or word.
Those who love the truth are quick to hear because they treasure the Word. (Psalm 119:11)
2. Be slow to speak in regard to the word of truth. (James 1:26; 3:1)
Guard yourself from being irresponsible with what you have heard. (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2)
3. Be slow to anger in hearing the word of truth.
· “slow to anger”—literally means do not resent the word. (Galatians 4:16)
· Anger does not produce the righteousness of God. (James 1:20)
o Truth conforms us to Christ.
4. Prepare your heart to receive the word of truth. (James 1:21)
· Before the word of truth is received, sin must be dealt with in your heart.
o “put away”—literally means “having put away”
§ “filthiness”—Gr. “ruparia,” refers to wax in your ears.
Implication: Get rid of the sin that causes you to not hear the word of truth, because sin always hinders the work of the Word.
5. Receive the word with a spirit of humility and teachability. (James 1:21)
6. Practice the word of truth. (James 1:22)
· To hear but not put into practice is to be deceived or deluded.
· To practice by putting into action is to be blessed.
From James’ Letter to My Life . . .
· Set aside time daily to read God’s Word.
· Pray for God to show you any sin that may be hindering the work of His Word.
· Allow God’s Spirit to drive His Word deep into the good soil of your heart.
· Be teachable and receive what He says with humility.
· Put His Word into practice quickly.
James 1:16-27
The Point James is Making . . .
· Don’t talk about what you believe; live out what you say you believe.
Truth Statement: To talk about religion but not live out genuine faith is worthless. (James 1:26)
We may have become so inoculated by our religiosity that we have become desensitized or numb to the truth regarding our heart.
A Practical Truth About Real Life . . .
Real faith displayed in real life involves meeting real needs. (James 1:27)
· James mentions three needs:
1. To visit orphans—literally means to care for; look after; select
2. To visit widows
3. To keep oneself unstained from the world—literally means that we are to be set apart.
To Care for Orphans . . .
· There are 104,000 children currently in foster care in the United Sates that are legally available for adoption. (Focus on the Family, www.icareaboutorphans.org)
· There are over 500 children available for adoption through foster care in the state of Arkansas. (C.A.L.L.—Children of Arkansas Loved for a Lifetime, www.thecallinarkansas.org)
· The United States has over 300,000 churches.
Implication:
It is the responsibility of the Christian community to engage in the care for orphans. The question is not “Should I be involved,” but “God, how are you leading me to be involved?”
· Adoption
o Adoption is the story of the gospel.
§ Ephesians 1:5; Galatians 4:4-6; Romans 8:12-17, 23-24
· Foster Care
· Host Home
· Sponsorship
· On Mission
James 1:13-18
Practical Truths About Real Life . . .
1. Real life is full of temptations.
“Let no one say when he is tempted . . .” (James 1:13a)
“But each one is tempted . .” (James 1:14a)
· Temptations inevitably happen.
2. Temptations are not of God.
“Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ for God cannot be tempted with evil, and He himself tempts no one.” (James 1:13)
· God is not to blame.
o The tendency of fallen humanity is to deflect personal responsibility of sin to the fault of someone or something else. (Genesis 3:9-13)
· Satan is not ultimately to blame.
3. Temptation progresses when my heart wanders.
“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.” (James 1:14-15)
The progression . . .
· Desire—Greek word “epithumia,” which is translated “lust.” It is connected with your emotions. Sin begins with desires that are unchecked.
o “lured”—hunting term used to lure an animal in a trap.
o “enticed”—fishing term meaning to set a bait to catch fish.
· Temptation—rationalize and justify that which you are lusting after.
· Sin—the result of giving in to the lust of your heart.
· Death—sin leads to destruction.
You will never turn from a sin you don’t hate, and you will never hate sin until you love God more.
Truth Statement: What I delight in shapes what I desire. (Psalm 37:4)
James 1:1-8
From:
· James, the brother of Jesus, wrote this letter (epistle). (James 1:1)
o Leader of the church in Jerusalem
o Martyred in A.D. 62
o Wrote this letter in A.D. mid 40’s.
To:
· This letter was written to the Jewish Christians scattered beyond Jerusalem. (James 1:1)
o Old Testament Dispersion: Captivity and Exile
o New Testament Dispersion: Persecution (after the stoning of Stephen, Acts 7-8; A.D. 35-37)
Re:
· It’s a revealing letter.
o God uses real life issues to reveal real faith.
· It’s a practical letter.
o Practical wisdom on how to navigate wisely through real life.
· It is a challenging letter.
o There are over 50 calls to obedience to live out real faith in real life.
Practical Truths About Real Life . . .
1. Real life demands a real choice. (James 1:1)
“a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ . . .”
· Bondservant: one who gives himself up wholly to another’s will; not forced, but willingly.
Truth Statement: Who or what I serve will influence how I live out my life.
2. Real life involves real struggles. (James 1:2-4)
· Trials are a part of real life.
“ . . . when you meet (encounter; face) trials of various kinds . . .” (v.2)
· Trials will test the __________________ or ________________ of my _________________. (v.3)
“ . . . for you know that the testing of your faith produces steafastness.”
“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6-7)
· Trials are ________________________ in maturing me ________________________ so that I become more like Christ. (v.2, 4)
“And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)
“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5)
“Count (Consider) it all joy . . .” (v. 2)
Truth Statement: As a bondservant of Christ He is our ________________ ______ and the gospel is our _______________________________.
3. Real life ____________ real ______________________. (v.5-8)
· _____________________ and God will give generously.
· _____________ God and you will be ________________, receiving __________________ from God.
o Doubting is when I ________ God and then __________________ to try and _________________ the issue; or when I give up on God because His _____________ isn’t my timing.
Truth Statement: When I encounter the trials of real life, God’s ______________ is what I _____________________________.
Verses to hold on to:
· John 16:33
· 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
· 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Making it Practical . . .
· What are some of the trials you are currently going through?
· What are some of the ways you could respond?
· What are the ramifications that would result with each of the responses you listed? Both short term and long term. (You may not see the ramifications now, but you will in the long term)
· Based on God’s word and the leading of His Spirit, what is the obedient thing to do that reveals God’s wisdom?
“Real Life - Part I” August 26th, 2012
James 1:1-8
From:
· James, the brother of Jesus, wrote this letter (epistle). (James 1:1)
o Leader of the church in Jerusalem
o Martyred in A.D. 62
o Wrote this letter in A.D. mid 40’s.
To:
· This letter was written to the Jewish Christians scattered beyond Jerusalem. (James 1:1)
o Old Testament Dispersion: Captivity and Exile
o New Testament Dispersion: Persecution
Re:
· It’s a revealing letter.
o God uses real life issues to reveal real faith.
· It’s a practical letter.
o Practical wisdom on how to navigate wisely through real life.
· It is a challenging letter.
o There are over 50 calls to obedience to live out real faith in real life.
Practical Truths About Real Life . . .
1. Real life demands a real choice. (James 1:1)
“a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ . . .”
· Bondservant: one who gives himself up wholly to another’s will; not forced, but willingly.
Truth Statement: Who or what I serve will influence how I live out my life.
2. Real life involves real struggles. (James 1:2-4)
· Trials are a part of real life.
“ . . . when you meet (encounter; face) trials of various kinds . . .” (v.2)
· Trials will test the genuineness or maturity of my faith. (v.3)
“ . . . for you know that the testing of your faith produces steafastness.”
· Trials are purposeful in maturing me spiritually so that I become more like Christ. (v.2, 4)
“And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
(Philippians 1:6; Matthew 5:48)
“Count (Consider) it all joy . . .”
Truth Statement: As a bondservant of Christ He is our greatest joy and the gospel is our greatest aim.
3. Real life needs real wisdom. (v.5-8)
· Ask in faith and God will give generously.
· Doubt God and you will be unstable, receiving nothing from God.
o Doubting is when I ask God and then run ahead to try and resolve the issue; or when I give up on God because His timing isn’t my timing.
Truth Statement: When I encounter the trials of real life, God’s wisdom is what I need most.
Making it Practical . . .
What are some of the trials you are currently going through?
· What are some of the ways you could respond?
· What are the ramifications that would result with each of the responses you listed?
· Based on God’s word and the leading of His Spirit, what is the obedient thing to do that reveals God’s wisdom?
What a Disciple-Maker Looks Like
Acts 16:1-5; 2 Timothy 1:1-14
Six Truths about Disciple-Making . . .
1. It is our commission as followers of Christ.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
Implication: Making disciples is an act of obedience to Christ.
2. It is intentional. (Acts 16:1-5)
“Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.” (Acts 16:3)
Implication: Making disciples has more to do with purpose than it does with strategy.
3. It is hands on; it is personal. (2 Timothy 1:1-14; 2 Timothy 3:10-17)
Implication: Making disciples happens up close, not from a distance.
4. It is directional. (2 Timothy 1:13)
Implication: Making disciples is about being on mission with God and inviting others to join you as you follow Jesus together.
5. It is a process that takes time.
Implication: Discipleship is never neutral but always process.
6. It is rewarding.
“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and my crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.” (Philippians 4:1)
Implication: Making disciples produces internal joy, and is eternally significant.
What A Disciple Looks Like, pt. 3
When I surrender my life to Christ . . .
-
The Spirit resides in me.
-
My heart is changed.
-
My life is changed.
· Character
· Attitude
· Actions
- My perspective is changed. (Colossians 3:1-4)
· What I desire and seek after is different.
o The rule and reign of Christ become my priorities. (Matthew 6:33)
o The desires of Christ become the desires of my heart. (John 15:7)
Truth Statement:
The more deeply I abide in Christ, the more Christ-like my perspective becomes.
· Abide in Christ by remaining in His Word.
o Gives nourishment. (Psalm 1:1-3)
§ Read His Word
· Youversion.com
· Abide in Christ by cultivating relationships.
o My relationship with Christ.
§ Adoration: worshiping God for who He is; acknowledging His character in reverence.
§ Confession: acknowledging my sin before a Holy God and my need to turn from sin.
§ Thanksgiving: expressing gratitude to God for His blessings.
§ Supplication: asking God to meet my needs
o With other Believers.
§ Discipleship (1 on 1)
§ Small Groups
o Abide in Christ by seeing the world as He sees it.
5. The World is changed.
· My response is to go and make disciples. (Matthew 28:19-20)
When I Surrender My Life to Christ . . .
- The Holy Spirit takes residence in my life. (John 15:15-17)
· He gives life. (Romans 8:10-11)
· He guides me into all the truth. (John 16:13)
- I experience a changed heart.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
“He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:13-14)
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
· Changed Beliefs.
· Changed Values.
- I experience a changed life. (Colossians 3:15-17; Galatians 5:22-24)
· A change in my character.
· A change in my attitude.
· A change in my actions.
Truth Statement:
When abiding in Christ becomes the reality of my life, life-change becomes the supernatural result. (John 15:1-11)
o Abiding in Christ is essential for life.
o Abiding in Christ is essential for growth.
o Abiding in Christ is essential displaying Christ-likeness.
What a Disciple Looks Like - Part I
Matthew 4:18-22; Luke 9:57-62
Three Truths About a Disciple . . .
1. A disciple is one who responds to the call of Christ on his/her life.
(Matthew 5:19-20)
· Initiated by God’s grace.
o He calls, I respond.
“Discipleship is not an offer that man makes to Christ.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship)
2. A disciple is one who, after counting the cost, sees Jesus as worth it. (Luke 9:57-62)
· Being a disciple of Christ is costly.
“When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship)
3. A disciple is one who seeks a constant relational pursuit of knowing Jesus more.
(Philippians 3:7-11)
On July 22nd, 2012 Crossgate Church celebrated God moving through three of our mission teams that have been serving through June and July. Members of the Thailand, Ecuador and South Dakota mission teams all discussed how God was touching hearts and rescuing people throughout the world. Our teams spoke of being the light in some very dark places and also spoke the power of changed lives through Jesus Christ. We also looked ahead to our Get In The Game mission event taking place on July 23rd through July 27th here in Hot Springs, AR. Crossgate Church and over 160 volunteers are taking our VBS into the community through events at four different locations. Chattanooga Park, Linden Park, Whittington Park and the Boys and Girls Club of Hot Springs. We are prayerfully trusting that God will change lives and shine His Light into the hearts and minds of children who may have never heard about the Good News of the Gospel.
Student Pastor Joel Owen reminds us of the hope and joy found in trusting Jesus Christ with all that we are. Of remembering the joy and energy that we had when we first came to know Jesus Christ and of the importance of recapturing the passion we might have lost. He also talked about the importance of remembering and celebrating the victory that we have through Jesus Christ. We can't be a victor AND be a victim. Jesus Christ has won the war!
What an awesome message today and a reminder that ". . .those who hope in Me will not be disappointed." Isaiah 49:23
Worship Pastor Rob Young brings us a message that reminds us that we all choose, every waking minute, to give our time and attention and our resources to something or someone. That person or something is the focus of our worship. Worship is what we give our best efforts to achieving. Is the focus of our worship Jesus Christ?
Treasuring Christ: Engaging in Ministry
1 Corinthians 12:1-31
Four Realities . . .
1. God has gifted every believer.
“To each is given . . .” 1 Corinthians 12:7a
“Having gifts . . .” Romans 12:6a
2. God gives variety of gifts.
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit . . .” 1 Corinthians 12:4a
3. God assigns and arranges as He chooses.
“ . . . who apportions (assigns) to each one individually as He wills.” 1 Corinthias 12:11b
“But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as He chose.” 1 Corinthians 12:18
4. God reveals Himself through the supernatural work of His Spirit.
“All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills.” 1 Corinthians 12:11
· God has supernaturally gifted us so that we might do that which is naturally beyond us.
5. God gifts us for His glory and for the good of His church.
“ . . . for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:7b
“Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them . . .” Romans 12:6
For the Common Good . . .
· Because I am a follower of Christ, and am gifted by God, what gift(s) has He given me to use for His glory and for the good of His church?
· Am I using the gift(s) God has given me, or am I making excuses?
· Am I where God has assigned me, or am I being ineffective by choosing where I want to be?
Treasuring Christ: Engaging In Ministry
Ephesians 4:11-16
Truth Statement: I treasure Christ when I engage in expressing the fullness of Christ by ministering to the body of Christ for the fame and renown of Christ.
· The church is to be the expression of the fullness of Christ.
o Sacrificial love (Hebrews 10:10-14)
o Compassion
o Grace
o Reconciliation/Unity
o Power of His Spirit
· As we do, we proclaim the fame and renown of Christ to the nations.
Ministry is the Expression . . .
Every Christ-follower should be equipped for ministry and engaged in ministry for the purpose of edifying the church so that the nations might be reached. (Ephesians 4:11-16)
· What explicitly resonates in Ephesians 4:11-16 is what we should expressly live out as the body of Christ.
Expressly Lived Out . . .
-
The responsibility of leadership is to equip the saints. (Ephesians 4:11-12)
-
The responsibility of the saints is to do the work of ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-12)
-
The purpose of ministry is for the building up of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:12)
-
The goal off ministry in the church is to become spiritually mature believers who experience and express the fullness of Christ.
· Unity of the faith
· Knowledge of the Son of God
· Speaking truth in love
· Spiritual growth
· Expressive of His love
Two Observations . . .
· The body of Christ is loosely connected when its members are ill equipped.
· Equipped saints, working properly, results in a growing, Christ-exalting, and Christ-reflecting church.
My Response . . .
Dad Dynasty: Making It Stick
Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:4-9
The Dash . . .
· How am I living out my dash in regard to my children?
The Dynasty . . .
The dynasty may begin, continue or end with me. (1 Samuel 2:27-36)
How Do You Continue or Begin the Dynasty?
· Bring them up by way of discipline (Ephesians 6:4)
· Bring them up by way of instruction (Ephesians 6:4)
Truth Statement:
If training doesn’t accompany teaching, and if teaching doesn’t accompany training, frustration and discouragement are inevitable.
The key to families being transformed and effecting change in our culture is through a succession of God-honoring, Christ-exalting children who mature into adults and produce God-honoring, Christ-exalting children. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)
Making It Stick . . .
This is the June 10th, 2012 audio recording of our teaching service at Crossgate Church. For more information you can visit: www.crossgate.org.