New Song Community Church: Recent Episodes
Pastor Mitch Coston
Romans 8:14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.Psalm 85:10Mercy and truth are joined together; Righteousness and peace have kissed.
2 Tim. 1:7 You have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
John 17:3And this is the absolute fullness of life - that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.
Philippians 3:10–11I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
1 Corinthians 3:11–15 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ. Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person’s life has any value. If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames.
Luke 6:37–38 Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.
Romans 6:5–8 If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with Him — anyone who has died has been freed from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.
Matthew 27:57–61 Now when evening had come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him. When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb, and departed. And Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb.
Ephesians 2:13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
Colossians 2:14 (NKJV)...having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
2 Timothy 1:9 For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus.
Matthew 24:11–13Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end shall be saved.
Matthew 18:35 “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.”
Isaiah 55:8–9 My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts, says the LORD. And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
Luke 9:23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.
1 Corinthians 4:2Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.
Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12
Luke 15:20So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.John 16:27the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God.
John 15:2 Every branch that bears fruit is pruned so that it bears even more fruit.What is the secret to fruitfulness in a season of pruning?
John 15:1–2 I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.
2 Corinthians 5:10–11For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. Since, then, we know the terror of the Lord, we try to persuade people.
James 5:17–18 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
John 20:27–29 (NKJV)Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.” And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
As We Forgive Those Who Trespass Against Us (Differentiation - Rest Pt. 7) by Pastor Mitch Coston
Zechariah 9:12 Return to the stronghold, You prisoners of hope. Even today I declare That I will restore double to you.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.
Matthew 5:38–48“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you?
John 4:23–24But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Psalm 47:6–7Sing praises to God, sing praises!Sing praises to our King, sing praises!For God is the King of all the earth;Sing praises with understanding.
Psalm 50:3Our God approaches, and he is not silent. Fire devours everything in his way, and a great storm rages around him.
Matthew 6:6But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.Psalm 27:5 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.
Psalm 32:9 Do not be like a horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.
Matthew 16:25Whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.
Genesis 15:18On the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying:“To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates—
2 Corinthians 12:9–10But 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 about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Luke 6:22–23Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven.
2 Corinthians 10:3–5 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Ephesians 6:12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
John 13:1Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.
Many times we want to step out an minister but we feel stuck in our comfort zones. Pastor Josh shares three keys to stepping out of your comfort zone.
Matthew 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Ezekiel 9:4 “Go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament over all the detestable things that are done in it.”
Ephesians 1:15–18 Since I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened;
Revelation 3:20 (NKJV) Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.
Romans 10:10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.
Psalm 15 LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend; In whose eyes a vile person is despised, But he honors those who fear the LORD; He who swears to his own hurt and does not change; He who does not put out his money at usury, Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things shall never be moved.
Exodus 15:22–26 Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea; then they went out into the Wilderness of Shur. And they went three days in the wilderness and found no water. 23 Now when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefore the name of it was called Marah. 24 And the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” 25 So he cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet. There He made a statute and an ordinance for them, and there He tested them, 26 and said, “If you diligently heed the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.”
Song of Solomon 8:7 If a man would give all his wealth for love, It would be utterly despised.
Matthew 24:9–13 (NKJV) 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.
John 12:45–48 And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.
Matthew 13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
2 Corinthians 10:4–6 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.
We apologize for the wind noise in the background - this was quite a windy Sunday morning.
Leviticus 6:13 A fire shall always be burning on the altar; it shall never go out.
1 Peter 3:1–6 Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.
1 Peter 4:10 As each one has received a gift, serve one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
The world enforces its religion with its government. The history of Christianity is conflict with the world's government and religion. We must be bold and speak truth to those bound in lies.
Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.
Hebrews 13:5 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have
Romans 8:11 the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you
2 Corinthians 4:7 we have this treasure in clay jars, that the power may be of God and not of us.
1 Peter 1:8 (NKJV) Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,
Luke 10:36–37 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
If you will pursue God with your whole heart to be holy, it can be very lonely at times or seasons when it seems that no one else is willing to go with you. Take heart - you are never alone!
James 4:11–12 Do not speak evil of one another, brethren...Who are you to judge another?
The US withdrawal from Afghanistan has created a military and humanitarian disaster. Many Americans are deeply distressed and angry at our own decision-makers. What can American Christians do with our anger and sorrow?
Revelation 19:11 Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.
Matthew 21:16 And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read,
‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise’?”
Sola Scriptura - Only Bible 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Isaiah 11:3 And His delight is in the fear of the Lord.
Jesus respected His Father more than any other son. And He was the most-loved son ever! You can know that also.
Exodus 34:6–7 And the LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children to the third and the fourth generation.”
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem is a Biblical picture of end-time revival when the "whole world" will praise Him as King. But five days later, many in the same crowd shouted for His crucifixion, because He did not give them what they demanded.
James 5:16 Confess your faults to one another and pray for one another and you will be healed.
2 Timothy 3:14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them,
Hebrews 6:12 imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Do you know the character of the person who is teaching you? If you don't, don't listen. If you do, imitate that person's faith.
When God sent Moses to deliver the Israelites out of Egypt, Pharoah made their work more difficult. And then they had to live through the plagues. And they complained against the God that was moving to set them free. We are now living in a time of God's deliverance, but just as then, so now the world's situation gets more chaotic and difficult as God engages with the ruler of this world.
Did you know that the establishment of the current government of Oregon is directly descended from the 2nd Great Awakening revival? Did you know that the fathers and mothers of Oregon were missionaries who laid their lives on the altar to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the Native people of the Oregon Country? Listen and see how our spiritual inheritance directly relates to our region today.
Jesus' Name is Immanuel (God with us) so that we can not just know about God, but know Him personally in experience of reality.
Listen as Pastor Mitch reveals the Scripture and worship in the familiar lyrics of the Christmas carols: hear them again for the first time!
Philippians 2:9–10 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 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,
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
John 15:9–10 As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.
John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
(This recording is from an outdoor service - so you will hear highway and wind noise)
What or who is your savior? Where do you run for comfort or salvation? What do you give your time and money and meditation to? Where do you think your provision comes from? America's gods are being shaken in these unprecedented times, and everything that can be shaken will be shaken until only the one true God and His Word remain as our foundation.
Matthew 3:17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
The story of God's redemption of the suffering of the prophet Hosea, the unfaithfulness of his wife Gomer, and the rejection of her children.
The good works of service that we do for God and other people are the fruit of our lives. Any real Christian wants to bear good fruit for God. But the part of the fruit that is alive is the seed: the fruit will decay away, while the seed grows new life. Jesus said that the seed is the Word of God (Luke 8:11). If we do not actually include the Gospel, the Word of God, in our good works, then we are only producing seedless fruit. Christian good works cannot reproduce eternal life in others. Only the seed of the Gospel can sprout that life in a person's heart.
Ephesians 4:1–6 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
Luke 13:6–9 (NKJV) He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’ ”
Matthew 1:22–23 So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
Exodus 21:2, 5-6 If you buy a Hebrew servant, he shall serve six years; and in the seventh he shall go out free and pay nothing. But if the servant plainly says, ‘I love my master, I will not go out free,’ then his master shall bring him before God. He shall bring him to the doorpost, and his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall serve him forever.
Matthew 5:48 Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Luke 13:24 Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.
Psalm 51:7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Revelation 7:14 These are the ones who...washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
2 Corinthians 5:16 From now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Every real Christian wants to know God and walk in obedience to Him. We want to have His direction in our lives. But what do we do when God is silent? How do we respond when it seems like He does not? What do we think when life brings pain or suffering, and God seems absent?
3/4 of Americans believe in the possibility of extra-terrestrial life, but the Christian church has said little about it. What does the Bible say about alien civilizations? The entertainment world is full of them, but are they science-fiction or reality? Could God have created alien life in other galaxies? Did Jesus die for the Klingons?
Pastor Mitch takes our church through our prophetic history, the identity that the Lord has given us, our call and assignment as a congregation of worshippers and servants.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Philippians 4:6–7 Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.
Chad Jolley shares his testimony of salvation from Jesus and surrender to the Holy Spirit. He encourages us to be activated in our obedience and faith!
The New Testament assures us that Jesus is returning quickly. But there's nothing quick about 2000 years wait. What is God waiting on? Why does He tolerate all the sin and suffering of earth? Why does Christ not return to establish His Kingdom of justice and righteousness?
Isaiah 40:12–15 Who else has held the oceans in his hand? Who has measured off the heavens with his fingers? Who else knows the weight of the earth or has weighed the mountains and hills on a scale? Who is able to advise the Spirit of the LORD? Who knows enough to give him advice or teach him? Has the LORD ever needed anyone’s advice? Does he need instruction about what is good? Did someone teach him what is right or show him the path of justice? No, for all the nations of the world are but a drop in the bucket. They are nothing more than dust on the scales. He picks up the whole earth as though it were a grain of sand.
Revelation 6:12–14 I looked when He opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became like blood. And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind. Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up.
1 Corinthians 11:1–2 Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. Now I praise you, brethren, that you keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you.
Ephesians 6:1–3 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.“Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”
William Booth (1829-1912) once had a dream/vision in which he died and went to heaven, where he met glorified saints that he had known of on earth, and he appeared before Jesus Christ along with the great cloud of witnesses. What he felt and heard and learned in the dream that the Lord gave him is a parable of encouragement & warning to us all.
God is speaking - are you listening?
Acts 2:17 ‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams.
Isaiah 30:21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”
We were created for fellowship, communion, with God. Yet our Bible reading and prayer times are often more business than personal. Listen and receive some hints on how to keep your time with God relational and alive.
Isaiah 30:21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand Or whenever you turn to the left. All real Christians want to obey and please the Lord, but it is difficult to discern His voice in the decisions and situations of daily life. Listen and learn how to judge what the Spirit is leading or saying.
The Bible says that God lives on Mt Zion, a heavenly mountain that is the city of God, the garden of the Lord. He tells us how to get there, and who can live with Him. Listen to hear the Scripture's description of the home of God and how we may come into His presence on His holy mountain.
Jacob did not own his faith until he wrestled with God at Penuel, where he saw God face to face. If you will go to Penuel at night, the place where you wrestle with God to find His blessing, you too will emerge in the morning with your own peace and faith.
We love to imagine great success and big dreams for our future; we love to call this faith. Most of what we fantasize about does not come true. And then God gets the blame - either for not making our fantasies come true, or for allowing the bad things that we didn't plan on. These false expectations of God end up damaging our actual faith, or possibly killing our relationship with Him altogether. Please listen as Pastor Mitch exposes nine false expectations that we buy into about God or ourselves.
The thief that is crucified with Jesus has perhaps the greatest faith in all the gospel accounts. Why? He saw something that even the disciples did not see. That Jesus truly is a King!
When Nehemiah carried a burden of fasting and prayer in his heart for his fellow Israelites in Jerusalem, God and the king promoted him to authority to go home and bring the solution to their distressed situation.
If you have a burden of love to minister to a group of people, to the point of weeping and fasting for their salvation and freedom, God will promote you to authority to bring the solution that's in your heart.
The story of Queen Esther is a powerful model of Christ and His Bride, the Church. Listen and learn how much Jesus loves His Church, and how He has entrusted His authority and His Name to us.
Why does fasting add power to our prayers? What does it feel like to fast? How does skipping food create spiritual communion with God?
Matt. 25:40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
John 20:21-23 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
When Jesus told the story of the good Samaritan in Luke 10, He finished it with the statement, "Go and do likewise." What does that mean for us in our world?
Romans 8:16–17 (NKJV) The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.
Matt. 8:9-10 For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith."
Matthew 8:9–10 For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!
Isaiah 9:2 The people who walked in darkness Have seen a great light; Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, Upon them a light has shined.
This sermon often refers to a video that we watched together in church before I began to preach: please click the following link to watch the video before you listen to this podcast. Thank you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5V6gdu5ih8
Hosea 11:10 Someday my people will follow me. I, the LORD, will roar like a lion. And when I roar, my people will return trembling.
Amos 3:7–8 Surely the Lord GOD does nothing, Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets. A lion has roared! Who will not fear? The Lord GOD has spoken! Who can but prophesy?
Revelation 5:4–5 So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it. But one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.”
Luke 2:15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.”
Luke 1:31-35 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.31-35
Luke 7:37-38 And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil.
Luke 7:47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.”
Matthew 6:34 Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
"Worry is carrying tomorrow's load with today's strength - carrying two days at once. It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time. Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, but it does empty today of its strength." -- Corrie ten Boom
Genesis 6:2,4 The sons of God saw that the daughters of men were beautiful, and they married any of them they chose. The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and also afterward—when the sons of God went to the daughters of men and had children by them. They were the heroes of old, men of renown.
Matthew 17:1–5 Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”
Jesus Christ has all authority over evil spirits. He gave us that authority also, in His Name. But when Jesus or the apostles cast out demons, there was no Hollywood horror movie or "deliverance ministry" type drama. They spoke with authority, love, and compassion to those in torment and affliction.
On Sat., Oct. 20, a group of witches met in NYC to curse Justice Kavanaugh. A group of Christians gathered around that location and sang songs about the blood of Jesus.
Are both of these groups just superstitious? Is witchcraft real? Does sorcery have any real power? Is Halloween just harmless fun and games? How can I have spiritual authority?
Acts 19:17–20 The story of what happened spread quickly all through Ephesus, to Jews and Greeks alike. A solemn fear descended on the city, and the name of the Lord Jesus was greatly honored. Many who became believers confessed their sinful practices. A number of them who had been practicing sorcery magic brought their incantation books and burned them at a public bonfire. The value of the books was several million dollars. So the message about the Lord spread widely and had a powerful effect.
The Bible tells us that we are not wrestling with flesh and blood, but with evil spirits (Eph. 6). But most of our conflicts in the supernatural battle are going to happen with other people. How do we fight a spiritual battle in a natural world? How do we fight lies and sin without hurting the people who are hurting us?
Our answer is found in Jesus' strategy: he died to defeat the devil (Heb 2:14-15)
Ps. 82:6-7 I said, “You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you; nevertheless, like men you shall die, and fall like any prince.”
What should be our response when we feel passed over, ignored, forgotten, demoted? How can we serve the Lord in faithfulness when we aren't being appreciated?
Satan's goal is not necessarily to get you to be evil, but to believe that you are good.
Why did God create angels? How many angels are there? What do angels do? What is our relationship with angels supposed to be? Listen as Pastor Mitch answers these questions and more from the Bible. Find out what God has told us about His holy angels.
What is God doing right now? What has He been doing for the past 2000 years? He is working to redeem creation and humanity to Himself through Jesus Christ. Something is coming that defies our imagination: the return of Jesus Christ and the reconciling of heaven and earth.
What is it like in heaven where God is? Listen to the following passages from Isaiah 6, Ezekiel 1, Daniel 7, and Revelation 4-5 & 21 that describe for us what God's throne is like, and what He and His Son are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 13:1–2 (NKJV) Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
Hebrews 11:12 (NKJV) Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude—innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.
Listen to Acts 2, and the testimony of five different people sharing how they were baptized in the Holy Spirit. Each story is different - the Holy Spirit is not a formula, but a Person who want you to know Him and be filled by Him. He is the Spirit of Christ Jesus. He is safe and loving, not chaotic or empty or scary. Be filled and empowered today!
Acts 2:2–4 (NKJV)
And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
John 10:7–10 (NKJV) Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Revelation 21:21 (NKJV) The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.
In Part 2 of A Spiritual Christianity, listen as Pastor Mitch tells us that - we have a spirit, soul, and body (1 Thess. 5:23) - we can know the difference between our soul and our spirit - we can discern the voice of the Holy Spirit inside us - it is the Word of God that divides soul and spirit - God has provided the tabernacle of Moses as a model for how to think about our soul and spirit. - a believer can be forgiven, clean, and free, even while being cleaned and freed
Jesus said the the Father requires us to worship in spirit and in truth, but modern American Christianity has been rightly labeled "therapeutic moral deism". Most orthodox evangelical Christians do worship God in truth, but the Spirit is often missing. Jesus told us to have open eyes and ears to see and hear what the Spirit is doing and saying.
Revelation 5:11–14 Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!” And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying: “Blessing and honor and glory and power Be to Him who sits on the throne, And to the Lamb, forever and ever!” Then the four living creatures said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped Him who lives forever and ever.
God told Moses and Joshua that He had given them the promised land. But Joshua still had to lead the Israelites in battle to possess the land. And Caleb had to face some giants to inherit his mountain. If you have insurmountable obstacles in your life, listen to hear how God responds to our faith action to fight our battles for us.
Chad Jolley shares a personal testimony about forgiveness, and challenges us to surrender to God and let him heal us.
Do you have loved ones who do not know Jesus? Do you pray to see them saved and forgiven and in relationship with God? Listen to hear how your faith in Christ can provide a space for their salvation to come.
In Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis wrote, "Now that I am a Christian, I do have moods in which the whole thing seems very improbable. But when I was an atheist, I had moods in which Christianity seemed terribly probable."
What do we do in the moments of doubt or fear that seem to override our more rational faith? Is it ok to ask questions of God?
Tennyson wrote: There is more faith in honest doubt, Believe me, than in half the creeds.
In Psalm 73, Asaph writes that he almost stumbled from his faith because of offense with God. But he also gives us the answer that will reinforce our hearts in faith toward God.
Isaiah 58:7 Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from those who need your help.
Jesus told the story of the good Samaritan to command us to care for our neighbors. And every true Christian knows and does this.
But what how do we give and take care in a world of lies and scams? How can we know when and how to give? Listen and hear how to be instantly generous while following the wisdom of the Holy Spirit.
There is one who scatters, yet increases more, and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. Prov. 11:24
There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing, and one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches. Prov. 13:7
Luke 6:38 (GNB) Give to others, and God will give to you. Indeed, you will receive a full measure, a generous helping, poured into your hands—all that you can hold. The measure you use for others is the one that God will use for you.”
2 Corinthians 9:6–8 (NIV84) Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
Lev. 27:30 A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.
Exodus 23:19 The first of the firstfruits of your land you shall bring into the house of the LORD your God.
Romans 11:16 For if the firstfruit is holy, the whole is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches.
Psalm 27:4 One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple.
Psalm 96:6 Honor and majesty are before Him; Strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.
Psalm 90:17 let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us,
Psalm 29:2 Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.
Isaiah 9:6–7 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Luke 1 records the story of the conception and birth of John the Baptist. Examining the Word of God to Zacharias and Elizabeth, we can learn several lessons about prayer and the faithfulness of God.
Rejoice in the Lord always Phil. 4:4
How is it possible to rejoice when having problems or sorrow? Does God actually expect us to rejoice in every moment? It is possible to be happy by faith?
This is a brief history of the reasons for the Protestant Reformation, the fruit of the Reformation in world history, and the need for reforming Christianity today.
Can a person be good without God? Actually, we have a hard time being good even with God in our lives. Hebrews 12 tells us that it is the discipline of God that produces righteousness in us.
When tragedy strikes, when evil people do wicked things, whether public or personal, our hearts and minds search for hope and peace. A legitimate question that is asked by believers and unbelievers alike is, "How could God allow this?" Many of the people in the Bible also demanded that God explain why evil triumphed in their day. This very real and painful question cannot be answered by cliches, but the Bible does hold some faithful answers for us.
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active
Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome (corrupt, rotten, crude) word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
James 3:2-12 tells us that our tongue is like a bit in a horse's mouth, and like a rudder on a ship. We can steer our life for good or bad by our words. Jesus tells us in Matt. 12 that our words come from what we really believe in our heart. So if we are constantly complaining or speaking negatively, that betrays what we believe in our heart, and we create that reality in our life. If we speak faith and God's truth, we will believe that in our heart and create that reality as well.
God is always faithful, but most times He requires a period of faith between our prayer and His answer. He requires that we live and act in faith before we know when or how He will bring salvation. Moses and Joshua had to move forward in faith before seeing the miracle of God, and we must obey likewise.
Mark 11:22–24 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
When Jesus prayed (John 17) that His disciples would be one, did He expect all Christians to believe the same things and follow the same leaders and teachers? No.
The different expressions of faith in Jesus Christ that exist in the global Church are beautiful and necessary. We are instructed to live in patience and honor with each other (Romans 14).
The unity that Jesus was praying for, and requires of us, is a oneness of faith and Spirit in Him.
Ephesians 4:2–3 With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
As Peter walked on water and John the Baptist awaited his death in prison, they each had a battle to fight to remain in faith in Jesus. Was Jesus the savior? Was He able to deliver?
There are dark seasons in our lives when it does not seem that God is near or listening or caring about what is happening in our circumstances. The fog of war rolls in, and we cannot see well at all: where is God, what is He doing?
In these times, it is essential that our faith holds steady - that we remain calm and faithful, knowing Who God is, and what He will do. We dare not be offended with Him, or our faith will die.
When God called Moses and Gideon, both men offered objections, fears, and protests to obeying God's instructions. God was patient with both of these men, as He will be with you, as you move through fear and insecurity into obedience and faith.
In Luke 17, when the disciples ask Jesus to increase their faith, Jesus says that big faith is not what matters - only a mustard seed is necessary. But what He is looking for is humble obedience, and that is great faith. Real faith in everyday life does not often look great, but is obeying the voice of God, regardless of fear, doubt, or questions.
In Romans 4:16-22, Paul describes the faith of Abraham when God told him that he would be the father of many nations. Abraham's faith in response to God's shocking promise is a model for us as we put our faith in God in Christ.
God is faithful - what does that mean? It means that He is reliable, trustworthy, responsible, dependable. Whatever He says, He does. His Word is perfect and true.
Heb. 11:1 tells us that faith is being confident in God before we see what is coming. Rom. 4 tells us that Abraham was fully assured in the promise of God, even though his natural circumstances seemed impossible. Faith is full confidence in the promises and Word of God, living like they are true even before we see the outcome.
It would seem that justice and mercy must be mutually exclusive - that we must pick one or the other. But in the Cross of Christ, God accomplishes perfect justice and perfect mercy at the same time. Jesus' commands for us to forgive those who sin against us do not exclude divine justice. In fact, it is faith in God's divine justice that gives us the strength to forgive sin.
Many American Christians have a proud love for the United States, but many others do not. They are ashamed of the sins of our past and wonder if it is ungodly to be patriotic. How does the Word of God address nationalism and borders and patriotism and national sin (past and present)?
Revelation 22:12 Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
What is it that Jesus will return to reward?
Listen and hear what the Bible says that Jesus is searching to reward in His servants.
Have you wondered how to share your faith with people in a genuine, but unobtrusive way? Jesus told us to love our neighbor: the most effective means of sharing the gospel is in real relationship with the people who live around us.
Jesus told us to "love our neighbor." How do we do that well? We need to understand relationship and conversation skills in order to fulfill Jesus' command to love our neighbor.
Prov. 17:17 A friend loves at all times and there is a friend who is closer than a brother.
I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:1-5
Revelation 3:20 “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.
1 Corinthians 15:14–19 (abbreviated) If Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.
King David personally purchased the site of the Old Testament temple (1 Chron. 21-22; 2 Chron. 3). This property is perpetually owned by his sons, through all generations to the Son of David, Jesus Christ. But that temple is gone, and Jesus is building a new temple, His Church (Eph. 2:19-22)
Matthew 8:5–10 Now when Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, pleading with Him, saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented.” And Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.” The centurion answered and said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!
What do the centurion and Jesus mean when they speak of "being under authority?"
This is actually a great key to having your prayers answered and receiving the blessing of God.
Psalm 133:1&3 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity! For there the LORD commanded the blessing— Life forevermore.
2 Timothy 2:3–4 You must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him [for whom he fights].
God is equipping you to not only survive, but to win in the fight of faith. Don't quit when it gets hard. You can do so much more than you think. Keep going!
The Church has been infiltrated -- by counterfeits who claim to be Christians, but who really are here to cause doubt, moral compromise, and division. Don't be a tare in God's wheatfield (Matt 13:24-30). Don't be an unwitting agent of the enemy (Jude3-12; 2 Tim. 2:24-26). Examine yourself to be sure that your faith and obedience are real (2 Cor. 13:5).
Matthew 11:28–30 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Are you stressed out by trying to meet the demands of other people? Are you filled with anxiety about trying to succeed? Is your conscience guilty before God? Are you constantly wondering what other people are thinking about you? Do you fear rejection? Do you feel judged? Are you afraid or ashamed to pray or worship?
Please listen to the word of God and receive peace in your mind, soul, and body. Put your faith in Jesus Christ and received the Heavenly Father's approval today. Be at rest. Know you are loved by God.
Jesus said, "The Father is seeking those who will worship in Spirit and in truth." "My body is real food and my blood is real drink." "Those who eat my body and drink my blood will never die." "I am the bread of life that came down from heaven." (John 4:23 and John 6:51-58) What do these things mean? What is the point of Communion (also known as Eucharist, the Lord's Supper, the Lord's Table, etc.)?
The truth is that there is real spiritual power in the symbols of the body and blood of Jesus Christ. When we eat and drink in real faith, real power is present in the Spirit to unite with Jesus.
Mary experienced an amazing supernatural time period surrounding the birth of Jesus. But then 30 years later, all those promises and words died with Him on the cross. What do you do when it seems too late for God to fulfill His promises to you? Keep believing! It is never too late for God to fulfill His Word to you.
Daniel 4:17 tells us that "the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and He gives it to whomever He chooses." Romans 13:1 says that all authority is from God. So is President Trump truly God's choice? How could that be? Would God choose such a man to perform His will?
How can you know more clearly the great love of God for you? If we confess our sin, we realize how great God's love truly is for us, and how merciful He is toward His children.
Listen to the story of King David's provision for Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson. This is a type of Jesus and how he takes care of us and restores what is lost.
A compilation of several father-son talks that I've had with my son about growing up to be a man of God. Pastor Mitch
The real Jesus does not sympathize with our weaknesses in a way that empowers our failure. He understands our weaknesses so as to give us grace to overcome in victory.
Church in America, it's time to get courageously honest about our situation - in the nation and in the church. The days of cowardice and denial are over. We're in for some tough times ahead. Hell has some big plans for us, but Jesus always has an answer, and He always wins. So we will prevail over the darkness that is currently hell-bent on ruining our country. God will judge us, but always for our good and for our healing.
God Himself said that "it is not good that a person be alone" (Gen. 2:18). He designed our souls to need relationships with other people. There are seven relationships that the Bible speaks of. Listen to learn about the relationships we need to be healthy in God.
Many people believe that knowledge comes from class instruction or book-reading, but in real life, knowledge comes by experience. We learn by doing. It is not those who attend church or listen to good sermons who know Jesus, but only those who actually "do the will of my Father in heaven (Matt. 7:21-23)."
Jesus said that many who call Him Lord do not actually know Him, because they are not obeying Him (Matt. 7;21-23). How can we be assured that we truly know God? He tells us that if we love people and obey His commands, we will know Him.
1 John 4:7 Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.
2 John 6 This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.
Happiness is Like a Butterfly, the more you chase it, the more it will elude you, but if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder… Thoreau
Do not worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will have enough trouble of its own. Jesus
Matthew 5:10–12 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
The border of the Church is in shambles, just as Jerusalem's wall was in Nehemiah's day. Therefore, the Church blends in with the world, and the gospel we preach is unclear. We must have a clearly-defined boundary around the Church, so that we remain holy, and so that all who enter must come through the Door, Jesus Christ (John 10:1-9).
Pastor Mitch tells the story of his "swim" in the Gulf of Mexico that resulted in him clinging to a barnacled pier, bleeding in shark-filled waters. There had a been a warning sign on the beach, but he ignored it. God has also placed His warning signs in His Word - don't ignore them, or you too might end up in serious trouble!
The first apostles sought church leaders who were filled with the Holy Spirit AND wisdom (Acts 6:1-7) - neither spiritual fools nor unspiritual intellectuals need apply. The church still needs men and women who are "in the Spirit", but live in natural wisdom and excellence, as we address the world that needs the Gospel.
At the Cross, Jesus took everything bad that we are, and gave us everything good that He is.
Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the whole world. John 1:29
How are Easter and Passover connected? How are Passover and communion related? Listen to hear how Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God who gave His life and blood for our freedom and protection.
In Psalm 27, God tells David, in the midst of all his problems, to "seek My Face." And David does seek God's face. Looking at God during times of fear and trouble is the only way to find direction and peace.
Revelation 3:14–16 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.
1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.
Romans 12:2 (The Message) Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out, unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity.
Have you experienced a tragedy and thought that maybe God caused it? Do you have trouble accepting what God has allowed in your life? Are you angry at God for something that happened to you? Did someone tell you that "everything happens for a reason"? Do you find it difficult to reconcile the disasters of the world with the Bible's claim that God is good and loving? If any of this rings true to you, please listen as Pastor Mitch shows us that God is not in control - He is not secretly orchestrating the tragedies of our lives. No, He is the healer and deliverer and savior and comforter. We can run to Him, not from Him, when pain, sickness, or tragedy strike.
2 Samuel 2 relates the story of Asahel's death in battle because he would not listen to someone he thought was his enemy - but he was wrong. Pastor Mitch tells us that wisdom will listen to counsel, even when it comes from someone we think we are opposed to or angry with.
Why do you serve God? Why do you do the good things that you do? Are you afraid of making God angry? Are you looking for reward? Do you only do the bare minimum to ease your conscience? Do you take responsibility for what Jesus commands? Do you serve your Heavenly Father out of love?
God is real, He is good, and You may know Him. If you have doubts about the goodness of God because of the evils of the world and humanity, please listen. You will hear that He is perfectly good, and Jesus is present and willing to heal and save.
1 John 2:28 Children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.
What was the Star of Bethlehem? Was it a supernova or a comet? No. The Bible makes a clear connection between angels and stars. The Star of Bethlehem was a spiritual messenger from the Lord of Hosts to guide the magi to His Son.
Money is not the solution to poverty - it is the cause of poverty. The solution to poverty is the Gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ! When we preach the good news to the poor, as Jesus commanded, the Holy Spirit will break off lies and demons and habits and fears that are keeping the person poor!
The Church of Jesus Christ must look different than the world - including how we handle charity and generosity.
If we dumb-down "love your neighbor" to something that the world's people can do without being born again, we have missed the mark. "Love your neighbor" is so much more than being a nice person -- it is a supernatural command that requires the power of the Holy Spirit.
Philippians 4:6–7 Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:10–12 We urge you, brethren, that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
Proverbs 12:1 Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, But he who hates correction is stupid.
When a tragedy occurs, the world immediately finds something to blame, and proposes solutions--that don't work. The truth is, death and tragedy happen because the human heart is exclusively sinful. Only Jesus Christ can perform a heart transplant and a mind-transformation that removes our sinful nature. He washes us with His blood and fills us with His Holy Spirit, so that we can actually obey God and do good.
Many Christians say they are "waiting on the Lord" to fix their problems, but they are actually just frozen in fear and inaction. Jesus demands that we live in strength, boldness, and faith action.
In John 10, Jesus said (quoting Psalm 82), "You are gods." Jesus calls us "gods". What could He possibly have meant?
1 Peter 1:6–7 says that genuine faith is more valuable than gold that has been purified by fire. Both Peter and James tell us to rejoice when trials come our way, because God is producing faith and patience in us. But it is not the troubles of life that are the test of faith, because everyone (with or without faith) has troubles. So what is the test of faith? Listen and find out.
The last installment of this series. Rev. 21-22 tell of the day when the renewing of the earth is complete, and God brings heaven to earth, to live with His people forever in beauty, glory, and perfection. "Behold, I make a new heaven and a new earth, and the former shall not be remembered, nor called to mind (Is. 65:1)"
Jesus will establish His Kingdom on the Earth for 1000 years, commonly known as the Millennium. He will establish the government of God, reverse the curse, and restore the Earth to its original condition.
Do you ever feel unspiritual as you go about your daily life? Do you resent your job and daily life responsibilities? Do you feel like your attempts to serve God look more like a bloopers reel than anything else? Do you feel unsuccessful and unimportant in the Kingdom of God? You need to know that God has placed you exactly where He wants you, in the job and relationships and church that He wants you in, and as you live these out, you are successful and He is very pleased.
Did God quit judging sin after the Old Testament? Did He change at the Cross? Pastor Mitch reads several New Testament verses that show our God and Father to be the same God that He has always been.
On the Day that He returns, Jesus will bring complete and eternal justice. Every person who has chosen Him will be fully vindicated, every injustice will be perfectly satisfied, and every sin will be avenged.
When Jesus returns, He will complete our identity. "I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it." Rev. 2:17
When we meet Jesus face to face and eye to eye, we will each individually appear before His judgment seat. At that meeting, we will give an account for every moment of our lives. Our sin guilt is erased by His blood, so the judgment seat is not something to fear. It is here, at His throne, that we want to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
What will the actual return of Jesus be like? How will He appear? How will we change at our resurrection from the dead? Listen in as Pastor Mitch reads the Scriptures that tell us about the Day of the Lord, the return of King Jesus.
Regarding His second coming, the disciples asked Jesus, "Please tell us, when will these things be?" Jesus said that no man will know the day nor the hour, but He also commanded that we pay attention to the signs and know the season of His arrival.
Are you afraid of what you've heard about the antichrist? Jesus said in John 10 that His sheep know His voice, and that you will not follow a stranger. You are safe. Do not be afraid.
But there are some truths to understand about the man who will come to oppose Jesus. The Antichrist figure will not be some red-eyed, horned man who is obviously evil, but a popular, charismatic world-leader who brings (false) peace to the world for a short time. The world will love him, and some (who call themselves) believers will be taken with him.
And what of the mark of beast? Pastor Mitch tells us that perhaps we should be more concerned for having Jesus' mark on our foreheads (Rev. 7:3, 22:4) than being obsessed with the mark of the beast (Rev. 13:16).
Jesus said that at the time of His coming, lawlessness will abound in His people (Matt. 24:12). He also warned us that He will turn many away because of lawlessness (Matt. 7:23). But lawlessness is such an ingrained institution of American culture, do we (believers) really even know what it is?
2 Thessalonians 2:3 (NKJV) Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first.
Immediately before Jesus returns at the end of the age, as all the works of God and of the devil reach maturity, there will be a global harvest of souls as Jesus reaps His people into His Kingdom (Matthew 13).
Peter told us that there would be mockers who would make fun of believers who are waiting for Jesus' return. The scoffers believe that life will always go on as it has. But it isn't! There have been incalculable changes in human life in the past 150 years. Unimaginable advances in science, medicine, technology, and conveniences, coupled with massive growth in population and wealth, along with unthinkable numbers of deaths and wars -- it all points to a climax: the return of the King!
Even though He is the Carpenter, Jesus is not in heaven building us a big house. He is the King of kings, and He is receiving His Kingdom.
When we refer to heaven, we usually mean eternity. But what is happening in heaven now is actually quite different from eternity on the new earth. What is heaven like right now? What are your loved ones doing there while life goes on here?
When real faith of the heart toward Jesus Christ is present and active, the rituals and symbols of Christianity have great power. The cross, the Bible, the fish, the communion bread and wine, and water baptism have very real spiritual life in them. One evidence of this power and life is the fact that the powers of darkness work continually to remove or confiscate the symbols of the Christian faith.
It is easy to imagine that God is infinitely large, but do you understand that He is also infinitely tiny? So, since God is tiny, then the "small" things that we do, both good and bad, are powerful and important to Him.
Your soul is the inner "you" (your thoughts, desires, and emotions). You express yourself out of your soul, and you perceive the world from your soul. So, what if your soul is broken? What if your ways of thinking and your past experiences color your perception incorrectly? What if your soul is separating you from God and other people? Listen as Pastor Mitch teaches Scripture and relates a dream that tell us how Jesus can set you free from destructive thinking.
The devil likes to threaten and talk big, but don't negotiate with him. Put your faith in God!