Falls Church: Recent Episodes
When we talk to God, there are things we must always remember. 1. To call Him Father! (v.9) 2. That He is in heaven. (v.9) 3. That He knows our needs before we ask. (v.8) 4. That we share our Father with our brothers/sisters. (v.9) a. we pray with unifying awareness of family. (v.9) b. yet we each pray in secret with our Father. (v.6) How to improve our prayer lives… 1. What does it mean to us to address God as Father? How does it impact our talking with God to recall that He is in heaven? 2. Try this 'vitamin supplement' of truth for a sickly prayer life: write a note to yourself that reads, "HE ALREADY KNOWS YOUR NEED" on it, and then pray with your eyes open, continually reading the note. 3. How do our prayers change after this 'vitamin'? Longer or shorter? Sense His love more or less? Want to give up praying, or pray more? Is God pleased when we focus on this truth in our prayers?
It was not Stephen but rather his audience that was rejecting and breaking God's law, by their idolatry. 1. A long history of breaking the law from their hearts. (v.38-39) 2. They broke the law throughout their lives. (v.40-41) 3. God gave them over to false worship. (v.42-43) Checking Ourselves for Idols: How do we break the first commandment? Deut. 4:19 1 John 5:21 Who failed to recognize Christ? Luke 19:41-44. Heb. 10:1 What did God do to idolaters? Rom. 1:24,26,28. 1 Cor. 10:7-14
The Bread of Life Eternal – John chapter 6. 1. Behold the Lord of glory. 2. Find the Lord of Life. Declaration Explanation Confirmation 3. Trust the Son of God
We learn from Jesus to pray like a child speaking to our Father. 1. How does a child of God pray? Not in a public show, as the hypocrites. (v.5) In a private place. (v.6) 2. With whom does a child of God pray? Not with other people. (v.5) In secret, to our Father alone. (v.6) 3. How do we children of God talk to our Father? Not with meaningless repetition, as the Gentiles. (v.7) Speaking to our Father, knowing He already knows! (v.8) What are the do's and don'ts of praying to God as our Father? What is the Bible's view of praying in public worship? 2 Chronicles 6:12-14 How was Jesus' viewpoint of prayers with many words? Matthew 6:7 How often are we informing God of a new situation? Eph. 3:20, Rom. 8:26
God did mighty works outside the holy land and after Moses. In teaching this, Stephen was not rejecting God and His prophet – instead, his audience was! 1. God sent Moses as prophet to His people in Egypt (v.17-28) 2. God met with Moses in Midian, and called that place holy ground! (v.29-33) 3. God used Moses to bring God's people out of Egypt. (v.34-37) Receiving the Prophet That God Has Sent Us: How were Moses/Jesus described? Acts 7:22 and Luke 24:19 How were Moses/Jesus treated? Ac. 7:35 Jn. 1:11 Mt. 21:33-46 What is the role of Moses/Jesus? Deut.18:15 and John 6:14
Our target audience for living right and helping others is God alone. 1. We perform right actions for The Audience of One! (v.1) 2. We give to the needy for The Audience of One! (v.2-4) What steps can we take to pay less attention to others, and more to God? How motivating is it for us to show love for obedience' sake? Why? Why is it important for us, as Christians, to be different? Rom. 12:20 How does it honor God if we refuse to be more like Him? Rom. 5:10
Stephen taught that Joseph was an early pointer of Christ: both were mistreated men, later used by God to rescue His people. 1. God cared for Joseph, even in a foreign land. (v.9-10) 2. God saved His people in a foreign land, using Joseph. (v.11-13) 3. Through the one rejected son, God kept His promise to bless the whole family. (v.14-16) Pointing to Christ: How did it start? Psalm 105:16-22 Mark 15:10 What does it mean 'the Lord is with him'? Gen. 39:21 Acts 10:38 What are we learning about God? 1 Timothy 2:13 Psalm 25:22
One indication that we are children of God is that our Father in heaven sent His Son to give us true love in our hearts. 1. Other people made in God's image do strive to love their neighbors, but only sons of God go beyond that as Jesus teaches us to love our enemies. (v.43-44) 2. When our hearts desire that everyone be blessed, we are behaving as sons who take after our Father in heaven; only sons of God do that. (v.45-47) 3. The clearest evidence that God is our heavenly Father is that He sent His perfect Son to put perfect love in our hearts, just like our heavenly Father has. (v.48) Our Spiritual Growth Spurt: How motivating is it for us to show love for obedience' sake? Why? Why is it important for us, as Christians, to be different? Rom. 12:20 How does it honor God if we refuse to be more like Him? Rom. 5:10
Glowing with the Spirit's filling, Stephen testified to the God of glory by re-telling God's long-standing promises to bless Abraham, and how God fulfilled those promises. 1. God promised to give land and descendants. (v.1-5) 2. Despite mistreatments and sufferings, God promised to sustain and then to rescue. (v.6-7) 3. God promised to renew his covenant promises in each generation. (v.8) How does this study apply to our walk with God today? In what ways do we look forward and back? Heb. 11:10 How is this promise upheld in our lives? Gen. 17:10 Col. 2:11-12 Where do we stand on God's promises? Gal. 3:17, Rom., 4:1-25
Jesus taught us to respond to insults not on the basis of rights, but on the basis of His grace. Examples given by Jesus: No right to retaliate. (v.39) No right to possessions. (v.40) No right to time. (v.41) No right to money. (v.42) Lesson: So Christians possess no rights at all, but we possess overflowing grace! Reflection questions for our personal development: 1. If we wish we could strike back at someone who has hurt us, what do we really desire? 2. Why are we quick to take offense or ready to resent being insulted? 3. How does it affect us when others take up our time or cost us money?
If we are thoughtless when we speak, then what we say comes to mean nothing, and those around us know it. As Christians, we are taught by Christ to be thoroughly honest! 1. If we say yes, we mean yes. 2. If we say no, we mean no. 3. People do not trust us because we make more vigorous promises and swear weightier oaths; rather people trust us because we are actually true to our own simple word. Growth and Personal Reflection Questions: 1. God said He would redeem us, and followed through! Are we like God? 2. Why don't we stop to think before we commit to something? 3. Read Ps.15. What should we do if we promised something that later hurts?
The Spirit inside of Stephen enabled him to do miracles and preach with wisdom, and the Spirit defended Stephen. 1. The Spirit's grace and power were seen in Stephen's doing. (v.8) 2. The Spirit's wisdom was heard in Stephen's speaking. (v.9-10) 3. The Spirit's truth was shown in Stephen's bright face. (v.11-15) How can we testify? In what way does Christ help His people testify? Luke 21:15 Who does the speaking? Matthew 10:20 What sort of glory is seen in believers? 2 Cor. 3:7-13.
- Now: Behold the coming of your Savior 2. Now: Witness the day of your salvation 3. Now: Welcome the age of the kingdom of God
Because Jesus empowers us to stop, we are commanded to do whatever it takes to stop committing adultery of the heart. 1. Adultery is not merely a sin of the body, but of the heart. (v.27-28) 2. Adultery of the heart is more dangerous than losing a body part. (v.29-30) 3. Adultery of the heart affects our own life/marriage and other marriages (v.31-32). Heb. 13:4, Rom. 5:20 Follow up discussion questions: 1. What is the will of God for each of us and our spouse? 1 Thess. 4:3-8 2. Are we enslaved? To what? How? Rom. 6:16-22. 3. Since we should not commit adultery, what should we do? Col. 3:9-10
Our anger of heart and our angry words are far more serious than we assume. What are Jesus' steps of cure? 1. Admit we are murderers in our hearts. (v.21-22) 2. Quickly get right with God and others. (v.23-26) 3. Surrender our minds and hearts to God for renewal. Home discussion questions: 1. How can it be that we are guilty of murder, as defined by Jesus? 2. What must be done about our offenses to others? Why is restoration with others so urgent, and why is it more important than worship, or prayer meeting, or Bible study? See Psalm 66:18, 1 Peter 3:7 3. In what specific ways are we working to change, how will we measure growth, and who is helping us by holding us accountable for transformation on this? See Psalm 39:1, Proverbs 17:14
Christ has given the permanent gift of the office of deacon to His people. 1. The need for deacons. (v.1-2) 2. The character of deacons. (v.4-5) 3. The blessing of deacons. (v.4,6-7) How does it impact us that Christ gave us deacons? What is modeled for us in our deacons? Matthew 9:35 In this broken world, who can we respect? 1 Timothy 3:8 What in the church is protected by deacons? Acts 6:4
Jesus did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. (v.17) 1. How did Jesus fulfill the law of God? a. By His teaching and His life. b. By His death and resurrection. 2. What does this mean for us as Christians? a. Jesus fulfilled the law by writing it on our hearts. b. The law is not a burdensome, external rule to us, but a delightful, internal desire to walk with God. Conclusion: Jesus shows us that our settled and consistent attitude toward the law of God reveals our attitude toward God Himself. For Discussion Towards Being Doers of the Word: 1. Look at 1 John 3:22 and 5:3. How do these apply what Jesus preached? 2. What commandment of God are we working on now? Which commands seem burdensome? 3. What is our attitude to the law of God? Why?
Christ has His gospel preached in the world, and there are three responses. 1. Violence (v.33,40) Known by jealousy, anger, and fear. 2. Indifference (v.34-39) Known by worldly wisdom and calculating. 3. Acceptance (v.41-42) Known by joy, obeying, being honored to suffer. How can we view suffering as an honor and a joy? What did Jesus say about persecution? Matthew 5:10-12 In what way did God promise to help us? Matthew 10:17-20 Why does the world hate us? John 15:18-25
- Refuse the pull of the world. (v.1) 2. Delight daily in God's Word. (v.2) 3. Remember God's purpose for your life. (v.3) 4. Live with eternity in view. (v.6)
3 truths for advancing God's Kingdom. 1. The treasure we carry is…(The Gospel of Jesus Christ). 2. The vessels God uses is… (frail and fragile people). 3. The surpassing power…(belongs to God…and so does all the glory).
Because the Light of the World (Jesus) dwells in us by His Spirit, we are the light of the world, and so must shine our Light. How? 1. We must shine our Light (Jesus) by doing good works. 2. We must shine our Light (Jesus) by deliberately having others see our good works. 3. We must shine our Light (Jesus) by directing all glory to our Father in heaven, not to ourselves. Dinner-time Discussion Towards Being Doers of the Word: 1. What good works are we doing?! Name them. Who, exactly, can see the light of Jesus because of our practical expressions of Christ to them? Name them. Matthew 11:2, John 5:33,35. 2. How can we deliberately have others see our good works? Also, how could we trumpet the good tasks of others in a way that unbelievers will see it? Philippians 2:14-15, 1 Peter 2:12 and 4:10-11. 3. What happens when we take credit for an act of service 'for the Lord'? Isaiah 9:2, and 49:6 and John 8:12 and Matthew 23:5.
Jesus set us free from the destruction of sinful jealousy. 1. The definition of sinful jealousy. 2. The destructive power of sinful jealousy. 3. The cure for sinful jealousy. How can we win against our own sinful jealousy? Who is named Jealous in the Bible? Exodus 34:14 What did jealousy cause King Herod to do? Matthew 2:1-12 Rate the power of these: wrath, anger, and jealousy. Proverbs 27:4
Since we are like Christ, we are useful in the world! 1. Like salt in a rotten world, Christians have a preserving and purifying effect wherever God puts us in the world. 2. Like salt that adds flavor, Christians within a world that lacks meaning, add beauty and purpose. 3. Like salt that makes people thirsty, Christians make people thirst for more of Christ. Conclusion: God delights to use little people like us. Why are Christians distinctive within the world? Ps. 34:8 How can we use salt that has lost its saltiness? Luke 14:34 What is the function of salt? Mark 9:50, Ezek. 16:4 Which people are useful? 1 Cor. 1:26, Col. 4:6, Eph. 4:29
Our Ascended King Jesus generously gave us His Holy Spirit. 1. Through His Spirit, He gives various Spiritual gifts. (v.27-30) 2. Through His Spirit, He gives higher gifts. (v.31) 3. Through His Spirit, He gives His love. (ch.13, v.1,13) What are some benefit of receiving The Spirit? Of what day did Joel prophesy? Acts 2:14-36 What does it mean for our future? Eph 1:13-14 In what way do more blessings come? Titus 3:3-7
Rejoice when persecuted! We are to be exceedingly glad whenever our identifying with Jesus results in us being sinned against! 1. We stand in solidarity with everyone persecuted across the body of Christ. (v.10a) 2. Persecuted for what? "for righteousness' sake," (v.10a), "…on My account (said Jesus)" (v.11b) 3. Persecution is typical life in God's kingdom! "theirs is the kingdom of heaven"! (compare v. 3 and v.10, the beatitude bookends!) 4. We must think differently; persecution is better than winning the lottery! "for your reward in heaven is great." (v.11-12a) 5. Being persecuted was typical for the prophets (and then Jesus)! Outcome: they are all now in heaven. Then count us in! (v.12b) How could anyone be pleased to be persecuted? Acts 5:41 To whom does the kingdom belong? Mt.19:14;25:34, Heb.11:32-40 Who will be hated on account of Jesus? Mt. 10:22; 23:30,37 What happens when we are reviled for Christ? 1 Peter 3:14; 4:14
Our King Jesus ascended and became our Priest-King. 1. Sympathizing with our weaknesses. (ch.4, v.14-16) 2. Satisfying our Holy God. (ch.5, v.1-7) 3. Sourcing our salvation. (ch.5, v.8-10) How is Jesus unique? Hebrews 7:16 In difficulties, where are we to look? Hebrews 12:2 When did Jesus pray with loud cries and tears? Luke 22:44 How is Jesus our Priest-King? Psalm 2:7 and 110:4
Because of Christ's equipping of us, the church is full of peacemakers. 1. Who? We the Sons of God are the ones who make peace. 2. How? Sons of God are part of the solution, not part of the problem. 3. When? Always. We never cease being peacemakers. Conclusion: In the gospel, Christ made peace through the cross, and He Himself is our peace. Christ is The Peacemaker, and we are like Him. Where is this sort of activity needed? How are peace and truth connected to each other? In what way are peace and holiness tied to each other? What are the roadblocks to making peace with you?
Seeing the power of God paradoxically causes a holy fear and a growth of the church. 1. The power of Christians meeting together. 2. The power of faith. 3. The power of healing. Where do we see the power of God? What are the similarities to Acts and Jesus' ministry? Luke 6:18 How did Jesus handle the requests of people? Mark 6:56 What is meant by all this healing activity? Revelation 22:1-2
God will not tolerate deception in His church. 1. Our society is undaunted and unfearing – only valuing how things seem. 2. Our God says faking is unacceptable. 3. Our churches must decide: holy fear or faking? What is the big deal? What is the similarity to the sin of Achan? Joshua 7:1 How is testing the Lord viewed in the Bible? Deut 6:16 Mt 4:7 Of what is Satan the father? John 8:44
True believers have sincere hearts. 1. In a world of fakes, believers are genuine. 2. Pure in heart: a) matching our inside/outside, b) single-minded. 3. True fellowship with the invisible God is joined with true fellowship with His visible people. How does this teaching show itself in our lives? Why can we not serve both God and money? Mt. 6:24, 12:34. Study our hearts in Romans. Rom. 1:21, 2:5, and 5:5. How do we get pure hearts? Ps. 51:10, Mt. 15:19, 22:37.
Behold the Glory of the Son of God: The Savior of the World Is Here 1. Meeting the life-giving Jesus. 2. Finding the life-giving Christ 3. Proclaiming the life-giving Savior
Behold the Glory of the Son of God: The First Disciples 1. Meet the Lamb of God 2. Find the promised Messiah 3. Trust the Son of Man
True believers are full of mercy; it is one of the 'weightier matters'. (Mt. 23:23) 1. In a merciless world, only believers remember mercy. a. we remember our own need for mercy from God. b. we remember how we received that mercy - through the death and resurrection of Christ. c. we remember to give mercy to others. 2. We remember what true mercy is. (v.7) 3. We remember that God provides His tenderness and healing within our fellowship. (v.7b, plural 'they') What is the consequence of this teaching? Read his sentence; what crime did he commit? Ps. 109:6-16 Name some opposites of mercy. Rom. 1:31 A disciple is full of what things? Acts 9:36
God causes radical sharing in His church, which is a testimony of great power. 1. Heart unity in the church results in radical sharing. (v.32) 2. Radical sharing in the church has a powerful testimony. (v.33) 3. Radical sharing meets the needs of the poor. (v.34-37) How much is sharing our all? If we will always have poor, why try? Matthew 26:11 What should happen to the poor among us? Deuteronomy 15:4 How should Christians relate to money? 1 Timothy 6:10
True believers hunger and thirst for righteousness, which is desperately yearning for right things that are pleasing to God. 1. Christians do not give up and drift along, but rather we keep caring passionately about making things right. (v.6a) 2. Seeking righteousness is seeking a perfect relationship with God, who is the source of all good things. (v.6a) 3. It is God alone who fills and satisfies us; how badly do we desire Him? (v.6b) Considering this teaching, how do we respond? How can we view ourselves accurately? Is. 55:1-3, Heb. 4:12-13 Where do we get righteousness? 2 Cor. 5:21, Rom. 5:21 When will we hunger no more? Mt. 6:33, Rev. 7:16
Because Jesus predicted His resurrection, we remember His words. So that the supernatural will not perplex and terrify us. (v.1-7) So that we will spread the good news. (v.8-10) So that the truth will make sense to us. (v.11-12) Discuss His Words: What words do we recall when faced with the supernatural? When did you remember God's words as you shared the gospel? On what basis do we believe in Jesus' resurrection?
Jesus proclaimed that His message is a message of power. 1. The power of understanding. (v.44-46) 2. The power of preaching. (v.47-48) 3. The power of The Spirit. (v.49) How much ability is needed to truly understand spiritual things? Why are we able to understand? 1 Cor 2:14, Eph. 3:18. How does God sanctify us? John 17:17. How do we know we are children of God? Gal. 4:6
As three dying men talked, Christ showed us the way of salvation. 1. The dying man's mockery. (v.39) 2. The dying sinner's message and prayer. (v.40-42) 3. The dying King's welcome. (v.43) What is the rescue for us? When convicted of sin, will we trust Christ? Mt. 20:1-16 When we hear God blasphemed, how should we respond? Eph. 3:20-21 How do we know that we can stand on the promises of God? 2 Cor. 12:2-4
Since Christ came and is coming, we have His peace, and we must praise Him. 1. Who is Christ? 2. Why must we praise Him? 3. What is the result? When we reflect on Palm Sunday, what are we to learn? Define peace using verse 42. When did we find peace of heart? Why do we sometimes lack peace and praise? Who says God must be praised? Who found whom? Phil 3:12.
While officials dishonored and condemned Him, Our King provided faithful testimony about who He really is. 1. The Temple, not made with hands, was put on trial, rigged with the intent to find evidence to put Him to death! (v.53-59) 2. The Christ, the Son of the Blessed, was questioned and pressured to testify! (v.60-61) 3. The Son of Man, seated and coming with the clouds of heaven, was condemned in their court, insulted, mocked, spat on, and struck with blows. (v.62-65) What is the irony of Jesus appearing before the high priest? In what ways was Jesus a faithful witness? Rev. 1:5 1 John 1:9 At what times was Jesus silent and why? Isaiah 53:13, Luke 6:26 How did Jesus endure the ordeal? Prov. 18:8, 1 Peter 2:23
True believers are meek. 1. Meekness is being gentle and yielded to God. (v.5a) 2. The meek will inherit the earth. (v.5b) 3. Christians never lose out in the long run. (v.5) As we take this truth seriously, what will we think and do? How is 'survival of the fittest' wrong? Mt. 21:5, 1 Tim 6:11 To whom does the earth belong, to be given away? Ps. 24:1 In the end, who will 'reign upon the earth'? Revelation 5:10
Because Christ holds all power, when we pray in His name, we have real-world, real-time results, plus eternal results. 1. From where does that power come? 2. What forms does that power take? 3. How can we access that power, and for what is it used? How much boldness do we have? When we are bold, of whom are we mindful? Isaiah 37:16 Who has authority over us constantly? Revelation 2:26-29 What events encourage us to speak up more? Philippians 1:14
Jesus gives us courage to speak about Him to others. 1. Courage to speak comes from spending time with Jesus. (v.13) 2. Christians speak about undeniable facts (v.14-15) 3. The highest authority has called us to speak. (v.16-22) How can we grow in courage? How in our lives do we spend time with Jesus? Ps.119:99 What if we do not know what to say? Luke 21:15 Why does higher authority impact our speaking? Mt. 28:18
- Your sins are truly forgiven. (v.12) 2. You truly know God. (v.13) 3. God's Word is transforming you. (v.14) 4. You are winning the spiritual battle. (v.13-14)
Christians experience opposition and persecution, but in the end, we are safe because we bear the name of Jesus. 1. Governments sometimes hinder Christians, but cannot hinder the gospel. (v.1-4) 2. Officials sometimes question Christians, but all power belongs to Jesus. (v.5-11) 3. Everyone must encounter the greatest power: Jesus. (v.12) What does The Name mean to us? What place does Jesus' name have in the future? Phil. 2:6-11. How does it apply to us that Jesus is the stone? Ps.118:22, 1 Pt. 2:7 When it becomes time to speak, who gives us words? Lk.21:12-15
The healing power of the gospel is God's blessing to us. 1. The display of this healing power: walk! (v.1-10) 2. The source of this healing power: the Jesus that they killed! (v.11-16) 3. The blessing of this healing power given to us: repent! (v.17-26) Where in our lives is the healing power of God? What is similar to the work of Jesus and Paul? Jn 5:5 Acts 14:8-10 Will God hold us responsible for our sins of ignorance? 1 Tim. 1:13 How did we once walk, compared to now? Eph. 2:1-10
Jesus comforts those who mourn! 1. Jesus comforts those who mourn that God is not fully glorified. 2. Jesus comforts our consciences that mourns over our own sin. 3. Jesus comforts us when we mourn together, comfort one another. Friend group application: Do we mourn? If so, about what do we mourn? Psalm 118:136 How do we mourn and be cheerful at the same time? Rom. 12:8 With what do mourners become comforters? 2 Cor. 1:3-7
What is happiness, and where is it to be found? Happy are the repentant, for we own the kingdom of heaven! What makes us repentant people happy? 1. We are not poor (we own the kingdom!), rather we are poor in spirit. 2. We know we have nothing to give for our spiritual debts, nothing to say to our judge, yet we are rich. 3. We know that we need God, or we die, and we have God! Individual or group application: How is our attitude, our 'spirit'? Rich or poor? Prideful or humble? Who is responsible for turning our debts into riches? When do we need Jesus in a such a dire way that we die without Him?
The essentials of a church family are: learning, loving, worshipping, praying, evangelizing. A learning church family. (v.42) A loving church family. (v.42,44,45) A worshipping church family. (v.42,43,46,47) A praying church family. (v.42) A rescuing church family. (v.47) How must we consider the essentials again? In what ways are we committed to a learning lifestyle? Matthew 28:20 Who needs us to show him/her the love of Christ? Luke 12:32-34 What practical step deepens our prayer life? Colossians 4:2
We follow Jesus, because He is able, willing, and ready to heal us of our sins. 1. Able to cure any wound from any sin. (v.23) 2. Willing to receive us as followers, no matter how loathe-some our sin. (v.24) 3. Ready to lead us and teach us. (v.25) Where is God's power evident in the world today? Identify a spiritual sore that you have. What would you say to someone who thinks his/her life is too vile to be forgiven? What do we learn from this text being located just prior to the Sermon on the Mount?
Peter called upon the world to change their minds about Jesus. What about Jesus? He was… 1. Not deserving to be crucified, but to be crowned and honored. (v.37) 2. Not to be rejected, but having the name into which we all must enter, and the gifts we all need: forgiveness and The Spirit. (v.38-39) 3. Not to be considered powerless, but to be known as the Rescuer from a dead community into a living community. (v.40-41) How must we change our minds about Jesus? Why did Jesus come? Mark 10:45 How close are we to Jesus? Eph. 2:13. How must our mind be different than others? Phil.2:14-15
1 Cor. 15:25 What was the promise fulfilled; what had to precede it? John 7:39 To whom does Psalm 110:1 refer? Matthew 22:41-46
We are called to keep on trading the old for the new: following Jesus! Why? 1. Because it is worth it for a life constantly renewed in purpose. (v.18-19) 2. Because He causes us to be new and follow…immediately! (v.20,22) 3. Because He went to the cross for our former selves, and then blazed a new trail to heaven for our new selves! How do we explain the change? What difference did it for those that followed Jesus? Acts 4:1-20. What have we given up to follow Jesus? 2 Cor. 5:17 Who said, "Behold I am making all things new"? Rev. 21:5
We learn from the preaching of Jesus! 1. Context (v.12-14) a. persecuted b. deliberate re-locating c. fulfilling prophecy 2. Content (v.15-17) a. powerful b. same as John's (3:2 and 4:17) c. kingdom-centered 3. Application (v.17) a. repent b. see the light c. think kingdom! Friend Group Discussion Questions: 1. When is the last time you identified a sin and purposed to turn from it? 2. In what ways were you sitting in darkness? 3. What does the 'kingdom' content of this message mean for us?
Peter testified of the Living Christ, using the testimony of David. 1. The words of David. (v.25-28) 2. The tomb of David. (v.29) 3. The faith of David. (v.30-31) What should we say to others about Christ? What do we believe/hearts, say/mouths? Rom. 10:9-10 With whom did David fellowship? 1 John 1:3-4 How do we know that Jesus lives? John 17:4-5
Jesus did not doubt His status as The Son of God, so we should not doubt our adoption as children of God! 1. We do not let our weak condition confuse us about our status. (v.1-5) 2. We do not hunger for spectacular proofs - we have God's Word! (v.6-7) 3. We do not desire 'success' more than the privilege of serving. (v.8-11) Family Application Questions: 1. What is the proper role for emotions for a child of God? Heb. 4:15 2. Why would someone hunger for dramatic proofs? 1 John 5:13 3. How could chasing 'success' break the 1st comm.? Phil. 2:1-11
We should respond as if the gospel is really true, because the historical evidence shows that it is. How is the gospel incontrovertible? 1. The miracles – show that Jesus was attested by God. (v.22) 2. The cross – shows that Jesus was delivered over by God. (v.23) 3. The empty tomb – shows that Jesus was raised up by God (v.24) What is the right response to this truth? What is the reason for Jesus' miracles? John 20:30-31 Why was Jesus handed over for us? Rom. 8:32 Col.2:15 In what way did God vindicate Jesus? Rom. 1:4
The Spirit is God's greatest gift, and He is given in order to restore and refresh us. 1. Know about the grand gift, and celebrate. (v.1-4) 2. Evaluate the mixed reactions, and keep them in mind. (v.5-13) 3. Understand Peter's explanation, and call on God. (v.14-21) How does this apply to us? What do we know about the power of the Spirit? Ezekiel 37:9-14 Who may call on the name of the Lord? Romans 10:9-13 Who says not to harden our hearts? Hebrews 3:7-12
We start improving our baptism by realizing that the baptism of Jesus has enormous significance, and so does our baptism! 1. The baptism of Jesus meant that from the start, Jesus was on our side. (v.13-14) 2. When Jesus insisted on submitting to John's baptism, Jesus transformed baptism on His way to the cross. (v.15) 3. The gifts that Jesus received in His baptism, He gave to us! (v.16-17) a. The Holy Spirit. b. Adoption as sons of God. c. The favor of a well-pleased God. Why do we tend to underestimate baptism? What was prophesied to be given to Jesus? Is. 42:1 Was it? John 3:34. Who gave us the Spirit? Acts 2:33 Who gave us baptism? Mt. 28:19 Why was another called the firstborn son of God? Exodus 4:22-23
Psalm 134, the final Song of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) is about the perpetual worship of God. 1. The departing worshippers called for the perpetual worship of The LORD, by calling on the priests who were staying there in the house of The LORD to represent the people by always continuing to bless God, even by night. (v.1-2) 2. The priests express The LORD's commitment to keep on blessing the worshippers. (v.3) 3. In Christ in the new covenant, we keep declaring His excellencies, and He keeps providing us with life forevermore. (Ps. 133:3b) How can there be blessings all around, continually? How often was a priest to be ready to serve God? Hebrews 10:11 What is being done 'round the clock' in heaven? Revelation 4:8 Who praised God at night in a prison? Acts 16:25
The Spirit of God, working with the Word of God, makes known the will of God to the people of God. 1. How does the Spirit guide us? 2. What should we use to guide us in our decisions? 3. Is the leading of the Spirit specific? What are the decisions we must make now? How do we know when God is guiding us? Genesis 24:27 In what ways does God communicate His will to us? Col. 1:9,10 What are the tools God gave us? 2 Timothy 3:16,17
We value harmony as one of the most beneficial gifts from God through Christ, and possessing it is cause for our celebration. 1. Harmony is good and pleasant. (v.1) 2. Harmony is like: a) being so saturated with the precious oil of gladness that we are dripping with it and the fragrance spreads everywhere and b) being so drenched with heavy morning dew from the mountains, that everything and everyone is refreshed and invigorated. (v.2) 3. Why is harmony so wonderful, and how do we get it? (v.3) What is it about unity that makes it so special and pleasant? On what occasions do various brothers/sisters gather? 2 Sam. 5:1-10 Who received the Spirit? John 3:34; 17:20-23 and 1 John 4:20 How can we get harmony? John 10:16, Eph. 1:3; 4:3, Acts 2:42
Both the Old Testament and the New Testament issue a call to repent and believe! 1. John the Baptist preached repentance. (v.1-6) 2. He preached fruit in keeping with repentance. (v.7-10) 3. The message has two sides: Spirit and fire. (v.11-12) Home Application Questions: Why is it good news when we hear a call to repentance? 2 Peter 3:9 How is it evident to others when we repent? Heb. 12:17 What happens to one who never repents? Mt. 3:12, 1 Cor. 1:18-21
Only because the anger of God was turned toward Christ for us, can His anger be turned away from our sins. 1. The Light shined. (v.1-7) 2. The call to turn from darkness to Light. (v.8-13) 3. The damage of wickedness. (v.14-21) How do we understand the predictions of Christmas? What is the source of light? Matthew 4:14 What is offered to those in darkness? John 8:12. John 12:46 How would you describe God? Hebrews 12:29
Our Father in Heaven fulfills what He promised in protecting His children through the coming of His Son. For what things can we trust God? 1. For salvation through the coming of His Son. (v.13-14) 2. For fulfilment of God's good intentions in the coming of His Son, despite the bad intentions of men. (v.15-18) 3. For ongoing protection for all His children through the coming of His Son. (v.19-23) Discuss these questions: Why should Joseph be encouraged by 'until I tell you' v.13? Look for 'fulfilled' in v.15,17,23. Can we trust God's promise? God protected baby Jesus. (1:20, 2:13,19,22). Can we trust Him?
At Christmas, God warned us with the picture of a false king and gifted us with The True King. How do we find the true King? 1. Recognize the gift of Jesus reigning over us. (v.1-3) 2. Receive God's invitation to worship Jesus. (v.4-6) 3. We find Jesus when we respond with joy, worship, and gifts. (v.7-12)
The portrayal of God encircling His threatened people shows that He gives such security, stability, and peace that we sing songs of trust! 1. Security is found in trusting that we are as safe as God is invincible. (v.1-2) 2. Stability is found in knowing that God will not let us be tested beyond our ability, and so we are realistic as we learn to patiently wait for God to remove wicked powers. (v.3) 3. Peace is found in learning to pray with the awareness that good and bad are mixed – for now. (v.4-5) How are we encouraged by the image of encircling? Why are we immovable? Mt. 16:18, 1 Cor.15:58, Heb. 12:26-29 When does patience become necessary? Rom. 13:1 1 Cor. 10:13 How can we learn to pray with assurance? Eph. 2:14, 1 John 2:19
God promised to rescue us, and described how we know that we are rescued. What is the evidence of our rescue? 1. The outpouring of The Spirit of The LORD. (v.28-29) 2. The coming of The Day of The LORD. (v.30-31) 3. The calling on The Name of The LORD. (v.32) What is the real benefit of being rescued? Of what day was Joel speaking? Acts 2:14-36 What does it mean for our future? 2 Cor 1:22, Eph 1:13-14 In what way does our rescue come? Titus 3:3-7
The Lord is My Shepherd: In My Lord's House, part 3. 1. My Lord's house: the believer's incredible hope a. A meeting place b. A holy place 2. My dwelling place: the Lord's incredible grace a. Our claim b. Our assurance 3. My forever home: the believer's incredible life a. Our love song b. Our eternal song
As Joel saw, the Spirit is God's amazing gift to restore us. 1. Know about the grand event, and celebrate. (v.1-4) 2. Evaluate the mixed reactions, and keep them in mind. (v.5-13) 3. Understand Peter's explanation, and call on God. (v.14-21) How does this apply to us? What do you know about the power of the Spirit? Ezekiel 37:9-14 Who may call on the name of the Lord? Romans 10:9-13 Who says not to harden your heart? Hebrews 3:7-12
In power, compassion, and grace, our Lord Jesus repays our losses. How? 1. The Lord in grace makes up for our sin and grief and loss. (v.25) 2. The Lord in grace removes our shame, supplies our need, and gives us every reason to praise Him. (v.26) 3. The Lord in grace protects us, and gives us certainty about His own presence. (v.27) How can we be sure, so that we can really start to hope? Over what do we grieve? Why? Isaiah 55:6-12 For what are we truly looking? Have we found it? Mt.1:21,23 What will happen to our shame? Ps. 27:1-6 Rev. 21:3-4
Since we know that earthly armor fails, we are called to look to God alone for His supernatural help, which never fails. 1. God rescues us out of danger. (v.1-5) 2. God gives us a supernatural escape. (v.6-7) 3. God trains us to have great confidence in His help alone. (v.8) Upon what are we constantly relying? Luke 21:36 Why would King David win in battle? 2 Sam. 5:17-20 What one thing do we trust in for victory? Psalm 20:7, John 14:6 Why can we think of the Lord as being on our side? Rom. 8:31-39
Only when we look to God do we learn to set our troubles into a context that is large enough to dwarf them. 1. As we pray in Christ's name, we look up to The LORD. (v.1-2) 2. We ask for God's mercy. (v.3) 3. God's mercy takes the sting out of contempt and scorn. (v.4) What is one type of honor for a believer? Acts 5:41 Where does it help us to look when facing troubles? Is. 55:9 In what direction does The Lord's Prayer have us look? Mt. 6:9 What is more murderous than anger? Mt. 5:22 Dn.12:2
Since the Spirit is in us, we have good reasons to hope. 1. We have hope, because of the Lord's compassion for us. (v.18) 2. We have hope, because the Lord turns barrenness into fruitfulness. (v.19-20) 3. We have hope, because the Lord turns grief into joy. (v.21-24) With what certainty can we begin again to hope? How important is the object of our hope? Psalm 25:3-5 Where is our hope placed? Psalm 39:7 What do we say to ourselves? Psalm 62:5-6
We rejoice that, through the grace of Christ, we now belong to His church and will enter His heavenly city, the New Jerusalem. 1. We rejoice whenever we are privileged to enter the presence of The LORD in worship. (v.1-2) 2. We marvel at the wonder of Christ's church and the New Jerusalem. (v.3-5) 3. We pray for Christ's church, and we long for the New Jerusalem. (v.6-9) Why do we long for true peace? 1 Tim. 2:2, Eph. 4:3 Where is gladness to be found for a believer? Ps.92:1-4, Heb. 7:2 What will our future gathering be like? John 4:20, Rev. 21:10 In the New Jerusalem, what is central? Heb. 11:10 and 12:22-24
When we hear the trumpet call to repent, God wants us to respond by returning to Him in repentance, faith, and worship. Why? 1. Because the coming day of judgment cannot be escaped or endured. (v.1-11) 2. Because the Lord's gracious character cannot be doubted. (v.12-13) 3. Because even the required repentance and faith are free gifts. (v.14-17) What should we be hearing now? How were the man's ears opened? What about us? Mark 7:35 What happened to the ears and minds of believers? Luke 24:31,45 When should we repent? Matthew 4:17
The LORD is our keeper. 1. Where can we look for help? (v.1-2) 2. What does the LORD do for us, and how consistently? (v.3-7) 3. When does it start? (v.8) How do we know that everything will be okay? Who should keep us? Gen.4:9, Is.64:1 Rom.8:35-39, Heb.12:3 The sages of wisdom ask if we know whose name? Pv. 30:1-4 What will it be like in the future? Psalm 23, Rev. 21:23
Because our God is The LORD, we must cry out to Him in repentance when our joy dies. (v.1-4) How do we respond to difficulty and sadness? 1. Cry out to The LORD solemnly – mourning over sin. (v.13-14) 2. Cry out to The LORD humbly – with utter dependence. (v.15-18) 3. Cry out to The LORD longingly – panting for Him. (v.19-20) What is our reaction to suffering? To what extent do we have pride? 2 Chronicles 7:13-14. Why would apathy be a struggle for us? Romans 8:18-25. When are we tempted toward passivity? John 15:11.
Since our Heavenly Father cares so well for birds, lilies and grass, it would be non-sensical for us to be anxious about our own food, lodging, clothing, or the future. Caution: anxiety is distracting! 1. Don't fret, for our Creator-Father takes good care of everything He created, always knowing what we need. a. Look at the birds of the air. (v.26-27) b. Consider the lilies of the field (v.28-30) c. He cares for us! Our souls, bodies, even clothing. (v.32) 2. Don't be anxious, for our Savior-Father has taken our souls into His care-kingdom-reign and He has placed His righteousness upon us, so of course God will take care of our bodies, too. (v.33) 3. Don't imagine tomorrow's possible troubles, which is worrying (distraction!); instead focus today on the One who holds tomorrow. If tomorrow contains trouble for us, then it will also contain grace for us to overcome that trouble, too. (v.34) Conclusion: Whenever we feel anxious, we are falling for a distraction! Quickly, we turn our minds back to the spiritual work of our God in this world. What is a common distraction from spiritual things? What is the lesson from looking at the birds of the air? Rom. 8:28 How can we learn from the lilies of the field? Luke 10:41-42 When should we focus on God's work in the world? Heb. 13:15
God, because of His love for us, shows us that our joy withers whenever we fail to give Him our undivided attention! 1. God shows Himself to us in our suffering. (v.1-4) 2. God insists that we awake from our complacency. (v.5) 3. God reveals the withering of our joy, whenever He is not our very life. (v.6-12) What is distracting us from God, and how harmful is that? To whom are we called to pass on truth? 2 Tim 2:2, Ps. 78:4 How is complacency a present danger in our lives? Rev. 4:11. Evaluate our level of joy; what is God's goal? John 15:11
- Let us be thankful for fellow believers, despite their present sins and shortcomings. 2. Let us be thankful for fellow believers, because they, like you, partake of Christ's Salvation
Study directions: how to get passion for Christ back/teach future generations to do so. Direction 1. Draw near (v. 19-22) Direction 2. Hold fast (v. 23) Direction 3. Consider others (v. 24-25) Conclusion: got enthusiasm?
The Lord fully equipped His apostles with authority to upbuild His church and to gently restore unity. 1. The proof of true apostles was that they gently warned of the impending exercise of the power of Christ. (v.1-4) 2. True apostles taught others how to prayerfully detect where Christ truly was in His church: in you and in me! (v.5-9) 3. As gently as possible, true apostles were upbuilding Christ's church and restoring peace, harmony and unity. (v.10-14) How important is a soft touch when exercising authority? Why are multiple witnesses required? Deuteronomy 19:15 For whom did both Jesus and Paul pray? Mt. 5:44-45 Where are unity and harmony found? Col. 3:14
Since Jesus is our Prince of Peace, we look to Him as we cope with lies, hatred and warring. 1. As we join with Jesus in praying, we can be confident that the lies of Satan will be fully repaid in The Judgment. (v.1-4) 2. We enter into the grief of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, after He lived in this hateful world. (v.5-6) 3. We walk in the footsteps of Jesus, as he journeyed through a warring world. (v.7) Why is peace so precious in our fallen world? What is the relationship between Satan and lies? John 8:44 Where is the fire of the lying tongue kindled? James 3:6 Who understands our misery regarding liars? Mt. 17:17, Heb. 4:15
Christ provided the tell-tale mark of true Christ-likeness: strength in weakness while reaching out to souls in order to build them up. 1. The signs of a true apostle. (v.11-12) 2. The sacrifices of a true apostle. (v.13-18) 3. The concerns of a true apostle. (v.19-21) How much does a believer care about the souls of others? Why did Paul view himself as the least? Eph. 3:8 What are the family responsibilities of Christians? 1 Tim. 5:8 Which love do we imitate? 1 John 3:16 and 4:19
Because we are powerless, we must ask God for power. What power? 1. The power to understand and to be delivered. (v.169-170) 2. The power to praise. (v.171-172) 3. The power of rescue. (v.173-176) What do we really need? How are we able to grasp truth? Eph 3:18 Philemon 1:6 What active role of rescuing is necessary for us? 2 Tim.4:18 Where is God's power visible in the world? 1 Cor. 1:5-8. Phil. 1:6.
The power of Christ is seen when He uses our suffering to bless us. 1. Christ uses our suffering to reveal to us our spiritual condition. (v.1-5) 2. Christ uses our suffering to keep us humble. (v.6-8) 3. Christ uses our suffering to display His grace and power. (v.9-10) Why would a Christian experience weakness? How does God accomplish His will in us? Gen. 50:20 When is the power of darkness felt? Luke 22:53 Who are more than conquerors? Rom. 8:37
Even when we are rattled, we remain undeterred in our awe of God the Father through Jesus His Son. 1. Well-kept hearts: our awe, our treasure, our love. (v.161-163) 2. Well-kept lives: our praise, our steadiness, our obedience. (v.164-166) 3. Well-kept motivation: our obeying, our seeking how to please. (v.167-168) How does treasuring God help us with difficulties? Why does the world hate Jesus and Christians? John 15:25 Whom do we respect; result? Mt.10:28,Jn.16:33,Eph. 2:14 What are we urged to discern? Eph. 5:10.
Because God is merciful, when we draw near through the risen Jesus, we receive His life-giving touch, that revives and refreshes our souls. 1. Asking God to see our upsurging need for His mercy. (v.153-154) 2. Celebrating the abundance of God's mercy. (v.155-158) 3. Expressing confidence that God sees us and will revive us. (v.159-160) Our Daily Issue: Vivifying or Dying What is it that revives our souls? Why? Ps. 19:7 How can we become spiritually alive? Eph. 2:1-10 In our suffering, which trait of God stands out? Jms. 5:11.
Christ upheld His servant Paul as he dealt with fools according to their folly in order to show Christ's wisdom and their folly. 1. Christ upheld Paul in his identity and in his service. (v.16-22) 2. Christ upheld Paul in his dangers and in his heartaches. (v.23-29) 3. Christ upheld Paul in his weaknesses and in his preservation. (v.30-33) How did Christ uphold Paul? What is the gain/loss of having a good resume? Phil 3:4-8 Why did God tell Zechariah to act out 2 parts? Zech. 11:4-17 How can we identify The True Shepherd? Mark 10:42-45
Allegiance to Christ was necessary for all believers in Corinth, so Paul's boasting in the Lord was needed. 1. Paul's boasting in the Lord protected believers from roaming. (v.1-6) 2. Paul's boasting in the Lord showed his motive was love, not money. (v.7-11) 3. Paul's boasting in the Lord was needed to identify false apostles. (v.12-15) Why is allegiance to Christ so crucial? How could a person in truth become deceived? 1 Tim. 2:14 What is the gospel, as expressed with financial terms? 2 Cor. 8:9 What do we know about Satan? John 8:44
The nearer we draw to God, the nearer God draws to us. 1. We draw near to God with all our hearts and this is seen in our lives. (v.145-146) 2. We draw near to God first thing each morning, and even through the night. (v.147-149) 3. When difficulties are near to us, the Lord Himself is near to us. (v.150-151) Where is God when we need Him? How self-seeking are our prayers? Mt. 6:33 How should Christians start each day? Phil. 4:7-9 In what way does God help with difficulties? Deut.4:7
Because The Bible mirrors the character of God, we get to know Jesus through the Word. In what aspects? 1. Right. (v.137-138) 2. Reliable. (v.139-143) 3. Required. (v.144) How do we know we can trust God and the Bible? When can we trust God's promises? 2 Cor.1:20, 2 Peter 2:23 How much can we count on God's Word? John 2:17 and 8:26 What happens when we are small? Is.53:3, Gal 3:10-14
A fundamental implication of the gospel of grace is that we belong to Christ. 1. Because we belong to Christ, there are two kinds of boasting: proper and improper. (v.7-11,13-17) 2. Because we belong to Christ, any comparisons are odious. (v.12) 3. Because we belong to Christ, it is only commendation by the Lord that makes us approved. (v.18) What is the significance of us belonging to Christ? From where does our grace come from? Eph. 4:7 In what is wrong boasting based? Jer. 9:23-24 Any vain boasting in heaven? Rev. 4:8b,11,5:9-10, 7:9-10
Watching the sky leads us to worship our Creator, the God of glory. 1. Notice God revealing Himself through His creation. (v.1) 2. Pay attention and learn from God's glory show. (v.2) 3. Thank God that the 'language' of creation can be understood by all. (v.3-6) How do we interpret the sky? We worship not creation, but God. Acts 14:17 Isaiah 64:1 Rom. 2:4 We care for and appreciate our Father's world. Rom. 1:18-31 Enjoy a sunrise or sunset. Rom. 10:17-18 John 8:12 Rev. 22:5
The Bible is the book form of what the sky proclaims – God's glory! 1. The Bible never wears out. (v.7-9) 2. The Bible refreshes us. (v.10-11) 3. The Bible makes us wise. (v.12-14) How do we read the Book of God's glory? How does this passage affect our reading of the Bible? Heb. 1:1-3, John 10:3 Can we hear the voice of God in the Bible? Mt. 3:13-17, 2 Ptr 1:16-21 How does the Bible match God's revelation in creation?1Thess.2:13, 1 Cor. 14:37.
Since our every thought belongs to Christ, then our whole person belongs to Christ: every idea, motive, desire and decision. 1. Paul pointed to Christ's character. (v.1-2) 2. Paul taught about spiritual warfare. (v.3-4) 3. Paul aimed to take every thought captive to Christ. (v.5-6) What does it mean that we belong to Christ? What was the character of Moses? Numbers 12:3 What is the character of Jesus? Isaiah 42:2, Mt. 11:29 What must be the character of the Lord's servant? 2 Tim. 2:24-26
Because Jesus is The Wonderful Word, we are delighted to live in the light of His face, and we cannot get enough when He opens His Word to us. 1. The wonderful light of the Word. (v.129-130) 2. The wonderful light of The LORD. (v.131-135) 3. We share The LORD's grief about widespread darkness. (v.136) In what ways are God's Words wonderful? What is wonderful about God's actions? Ps.139:14 Who loves God's name? Mt. 23:37, Rom. 9:1-5 1Pet.2:2 How is The Word opened to us? Lk. 24:31,32,45, Ac.17:2-3
God promised to rescue us, and provided the evidence of our rescue. 1. The outpouring of The Spirit of The LORD. (v.28-29) 2. The coming of The Day of The LORD. (v.30-31) 3. The calling on The Name of The LORD. (v.32) What is the real benefit of being rescued? Of what day was Joel speaking? Acts 2:14-36 What does it mean for our future? 2 Cor 1:22, Eph 1:13-14 In what way does our rescue come? Titus 3:3-7
Because Jesus is the servant of The LORD, we have something better than gold – that we are walking with The LORD. 1. God pledged to save us from our oppressors. (v.121-123) 2. God gave us His loyal-covenant-love. (v.124-125) 3. God gave us a love for walking with Him. (v.126-128) What are daily advantages for us from God? How certain are we of God's favor? Dt. 6:24, Mt. 6:13, Heb. 7:22 What is a basic characteristic of God? Ezek. 44:6-7, 1 John 4:8 What happens when we fear God? Psalm 25:14, Gal. 4:4
Because Jesus went back up, it enabled the unusual way that we pray to God our Father. 1. Lord, save us, show Your power again, hurry! (v.1- 4) 2. Yes, we deserve anger and we were really bad. (v.5-7) 3. Lord save us anyway, because we are Your people! (v.8-12) What is uncommon about our prayer, and our God? What has God prepared for those who love Him? 1 Cor. 2:9-10. What is the source of our purity? Philippians 3:7-10 Why are we given mercy? 1 Peter 2:9-12
As Christians, we have been rescued by grace, and now we live a supported life, which is continually supplied by God's grace. 1. To grip God, we need God to grip us. (v.113-115) 2. To hold up, we need to be held up. (v.116-117) 3. To weigh God heavily, we must feel the weight of His Word. (v.118-120) In what ways are we in desperate need of God's grace? What does it mean to halt between two opinions? 1 Kings 18:21 How did Jesus command us to relate to enemies? Luke 6:27-28 What is the caution about having two minds? James 1:8
Our Savior clarifies our uncertainties with His Word and Spirit, like headlights on a dark road. What are some areas of uncertainty, and the questions they raise? 1. Confusion. (v.105-106) How do we live upright in our dark situation? 2. Suffering. (v.107-108) How do we praise God through pain? 3. Dangers. (v.109-110) How can we watch our walk when in danger? 4. Future. (v.111-112) What is the secret to having joy about tomorrow? How do we get through times and places of darkness? What is our best source of light? John 8:12 1 Cor. 2:6-16 What are some ways that God guides us? Ex. 40:6-8, Heb. 1:1-2 Who delights to keep the law of God, and why? Gal. 5:13-26
The Lord has revealed money principles for us that inform our giving. 1. Proportional. (v.6) 2. Personal. (v.7) 3. The Giver rewards givers. (v. 8-15) When do the principles apply? What happens when we give? Proverbs 11:24-25. How is God honored in giving? Luke 21:1-4. Who responds to our giving, and how? Luke 6:38.
Meditating on The Bible gives us valuable understanding. What is gained? (v.97) 1. We gain wisdom, insight, and understanding. (v.98-99) 2. We grow in obedience to God. (v.100-102) 3. We gain passion: for God's Word, against deception. (v.103-104) What is that true wisdom beyond what our teachers gave us? What sort of insights did the Bible give us? Eph. 1:8 How is our understanding shown through obeying? Luke 2:51-52 What things should a Christian hate? Is. 61:8 Rev. 2:6
Because Christ's giving is displayed in our giving, how we give is important. 1. Honorably. (v.16-21) 2. Carefully. (v.22-24) 3. Willingly. (ch.9, v.1-5) How do we know there is a wrong way to give? What is a good motive to give? Gal. 2:10. How much do we trust the handlers of our gifts? 1 Thess 2:5-8. What accreditation must there be for leaders? 1 Cor. 16:1-4.
Our Lord Jesus Christ gave Himself for us, so we will give ourselves to Him. 1. Exemplary generosity. (v.1-7) 2. Excelling in generosity. (v.8-12) 3. Equalizing by generosity. (v.13-15) Where do we best see generosity displayed? What is the cure for being self-seeking? 1 Cor. 13:4. Who is the most generous giver? Phl.2:6-7. How do we respond if one has too little? Gal. 6:10.
God gives us the strength to move forward, beyond our affliction. What are we supposed to do after our suffering? 1. Stand on the enduring foundation of The Word. (v.89-91) 2. Be refreshed by the preserving power of The Word. (v.92-95) 3. Rejoice in the freeing nature of God's commands. (v.96) How do we move forward from here? What is the one thing of which we can be sure? Is. 40:8 Mt 5:17-18 Where do we find renewal? 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Who is at work in us, and what is the plan? Philippians 1:6
God helps us to hang onto His promises, while we wait for Him to fulfill them. What should we do while waiting for God? 1. Stay focused on God's promises. (v.81-82) 2. Talk to God and state our case. (v.83-85) 3. Remember God's love for us, and act accordingly. (v.86-88) How can we keep on hoping while we are waiting? When are we tempted to think God is slow? 2 Peter 3:9 How is our memory of God's promises? Prov. 31:5, John 6:63,68 What is God's promise about our enemies? Romans 12:19
Our God gives us caring hearts, and then He comforts our caring hearts. 1. God gives us true repentance of heart. (v.8-10) 2. God teaches us the clues and blessings of repentance. (v.11-13a) 3. God comforts us, causing us to rejoice still more. (v.13b-16) Why do some people care so much? Who had bitter sorrow, but not true repentance? Hebrews 12:16-17 What sort of mourning will be comforted? Matthew 5:4 How many people must give an account to God? Hebrews 4:13
Since our God comforts the downcast, we can move from turmoil to comfort and joy. 1. Afflictions outside and inside. (v.5) 2. God comforts His people. (v.6) 3. Rejoicing still more. (v.7) What does being downcast look like? Where do we turn when the cares of our hearts are many? Ps. 94:19. Who has promised to comfort us? Isaiah 49:13 How do we move from being low to rejoicing? James 1:9
Since our Creator and Redeemer's love for us is deeper than our suffering, we are comforted. How does God comfort us? 1. Our Creator comforts others by giving us hope in our suffering. (v.73-74) 2. Our Redeemer shows us the source of comfort: His love. (v.75-77) 3. Our covenant LORD comforts us when we: a) meditate on the Word, b) fellowship with believers, c) pray to respond well to suffering. (v.78-80) How can we receive comfort? When has God blessed us by seeing another suffer?/reverse? 2Cor.1:3-9 How many other places have we tried to go for comfort? Psalm 23:5 What are the simple things we need for comfort? Romans 15:3-5
The resurrection of our King Jesus changed our outlook from dark sadness to bright joy. 1. The miracles. (v.1-4) 2. The message. (v.5-7) 3. The meeting. (v.8-10) From dark sadness to bright joy: Jesus looked like lightning. Who is He? Daniel 7:9-10. In what ways did Christ help us? Hebrews 2:10-17. Why would Jesus want the brothers to be told? Romans 8:29
Our affliction is good for us, for our God teaches us by faith to see that He is good and that He does good for us, even in our affliction. 1. In the Lord's good hands, our affliction is corrective. (v. 65-68) 2. Through God's goodness, our affliction is instructive. (v.69-71) 3. When God is good to us, we place more value on His Word. (v.72) Why does it have to be so difficult? What suffering that we have had has been constructive? Romans 5:3-4 How much suffering does it take before we are mature? Hebrews 5:14 What do we hear when we are in affliction? Psalm 34:2-4
We praise our King Jesus Christ for coming to rescue us. 1. We praise Christ by obeying Him. (v.1-6) 2. We praise Christ by admiring Him. (v.7-9) 3. We praise Christ by trusting Him to do what He said. (v.10-11). Why should we praise Christ? What information do we have about Christ? Zech. 14:1-11 How will His Second Coming differ from His First? Rev. 7:9-11 How should we prepare? Revelation 22:17
All that we need or want is The LORD God Himself. 1. We seek His face with all our heart, and we have Him. (v. 57-58) 2. We center our lives on God's Word. (v.59-62) 3. We identify with others who seek God in the Word. (v.63-64) What do we need? Have we found God? Have we sought Him? Psalm 27:7-9 What is the place of the Bible in our daily lives? John 8:31 How do our friendships show our beliefs? 1Cor. 15:33 Jms. 4:4
Since Jesus loved us and reconciled us to God, we believers have a committed love for each other. 1. love seeks truth, resulting in closer fellowship. (v.2) 2. love does not condemn others, but goes through life together. (v.3) 3. love bubbles up into joy, even during times of affliction. (v.4) When there is genuine love, what are the natural results? How long did Paul spend in the city of Corinth? Acts 18:1,11 What is the true test for love? John 15:13 Why might Paul boast about a church? 2 Thess. 1:4
Through remembering His promises, our God comforts us in our suffering. 1. Hope during our suffering. (v.49) 2. Comfort during our suffering. (v.50-52) 3. Enough cheerfulness to sing a song of praise during the nighttime of our suffering. (v.53-56) How can we endure times of suffering? What is the source of hope during suffering? Rom. 5:3-5 Where is our comfort? Ex. 6:5-8, 2Cor. 1:3-4 When could we not sing? Ps. 137:1-6, Acts 16:22-25
Because Christ brought us from darkness to light, we cannot be both a) the temple of the living God and b) idolaters. 1. What harmony exists between darkness and light? (v.14-16a) 2. We have the living God inside of us, and He remains consistent with His own covenant blessings and commands! (v.16b-17) 3. We keep bringing holiness to completion by cleansing ourselves in the fear of God. (v.18-ch.7:1) What are the outworkings of us being the temple of God? What are the 2 things that people serve? 1 Thess. 1:9, Col. 1:12-13 Why are there only two choices? Rom 6:19 and 8:11 Where is the covenantal blueprint? Lev. 26:12, Ezek. 37:27
God loves us so much that we actually need to pray for more ability to absorb His love, which is best displayed at the cross. What changes in us, when we better absorb God's love? 1. We become willing to take action based on the promises of God, because we believe Him and hope in Him. (v.41-44.) 2. We become convinced of the truth that freedom is only found in obeying God's law. (v.45) 3. We develop a passion for God's Word. (v.46-48) How do we take in God's love? Ephesians 3:18 Who taunts Christians? Do we have an answer? (see v.42) Is.14:1-5 What would it take for us to see obedience as freeing? Rom. 8:20-22 What propels us to speak of God's love? Acts 4:20 2Cor. 5:11-15
The secret to daily strength is daily training in the words of life from Jesus our Savior. What is the secret? 1. We train our hearts to delight in holiness as the pathway for the rest of our lives. (v.33-36) 2. We train our eyes to turn only to God's promises for fulfillment. (v.37-39) 3. We long for Jesus, who is the Word of life. (v.40) How do we unlock the secret for today? What is the right perspective on God's commands? 1 John 5:3 Where do you turn for a source of strength? Nehemiah 8:10 Who decides what your eyes will see? Acts 26:7, Luke 10:22-24
Since God's heart is open to us, He provides us with the ability to open our hearts to each other. 1. Opening our words, opening our hearts. (v11) 2. A limit is caused by our own withholding of affection. (v.12) 3. An apt reply to an expanding heart, is to expand our hearts too. (v.13) How do we achieve uninhibited, frank conversations? When the mouth expresses it, where did it originate? Mt. 12:34 Who predictably has a compassionate heart? Col. 3:12 Where is loving reciprocity often seen? 1 Tim.1:2, Gal. 4:19
- The Law reveals God's holiness 2. The Law reveals our sin 3. The Law drives us to Christ for mercy
The Great Commandment: How's Your Love Life? I. Love God Completely – The Heartbeat of True Devotion II. Love Others Genuinely – The Evidence of a Changed Heart
God gives us strength from The Word. What kind strength? 1. The strength of reviving our lives. (v.25) 2. The strength of providing us with perspective. (v.26-28) 3. The strength of bridling us, to stay on the right road. (v.29-32) Drawing on God's strength: When we get tired out, what energizes us? Deuteronomy 8:3 What teachings do we follow scrupulously? Joshua 23:6 Who says no to us? Can we say no to ourselves? Titus 2:11
Christ calls each servant of God to keep on enduring multiple troubles. 1. The credentialing of the servant of God for enduring. (v.3-4a) 2. The arena of the servant of God for enduring. (v.4b-5) 3. The equipping of the servant of God for enduring. (v.6-10) a. his character. (v.6) b. his resources. (v.7) c. his two-fold reaction from others. (v.8-9a) d. his life as a triumphal paradox. (v.9b-10) What is the role of the servant of God? In what various ways can offense be given? Mt. 17:24-27 How is the greatness of a servant to be measured? Luke 22:37 What is the heart and behavior of a servant? 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Jesus died and was raised, so that by faith we would embrace our rescue. 1. Teaming up with our new Team-mate. (v.1a) 2. Gratefully welcoming our new and urgent encouragement. (v.1b) 3. Embracing our new era of rescue, long-awaited. (v.2) What does thankfulness show? Col. 2:7 How do we know believers cannot lose their salvation? Eph. 4:30 How is our faith connected to our future? Phil. 1:6 When does God's favor get distributed? Isaiah 49:8
God teaches us to pray to see the power of His Word. 1. To see that access to God is our lifeblood! (v.17) 2. To be enabled to see wondrous things that formerly we could not see. (v.18-23) 3. To see God as our daily life coach: His Word is our delight! (v.24) Go home determined to change something: What is needed to live in this world, obeying God? 1 Pet. 2:11 Where is our true home? Philippians 3:20-21 Who is our personal life coach? John 15:26 and 16:13
Because of Jesus, the lesser light of the old covenant is obscured by the brighter light of the new covenant.1. The brightness of the external law (brings death) is outshined by greater brightness of the internal Spirit (brings life). (v.7-8)2. The honor of the system that condemns is far exceeded by the greater honor of the system that provides righteousness. (v.9)3. The splendor that fades is eclipsed by splendor that lasts. (v.10-11)Which things must be compared?How was God's nearness known? Ex. 19:16-22, Gal. 4:4-6When and why was the face of Moses glowing? Ex. 34:28-35What 2 things are compared? Rom. 8:18, 1 Pet. 5:1, Heb. 8:13
Since God was willing to judge and restore people in His own chosen nation, then God is willing to judge and restore people from all nations.1. Micah was like a mini-Isaiah. (v.1)2. Micah called for attention to this message from God! (v.2)3. Micah warned two audiences. (v.3-16)What is unique about our God?Where do we expect God's judgment to begin? 1 Peter 4:7What is similar today and in the Book of Micah? 2 Thess. 1:7-10Why should we not give up serving God? Gal. 6:9, 1 Cor. 15:58
- My Covenant Shepherd 2. My Good Shepherd3. My Personal ShepherdFurther reading: Exodus 3:13-15; John 9:1-10:21; Philippians 2.
Our King changed everything when He rose again!1. What we ask. (v.1-3) 2. What we see. (v.4-5)3. What we fear! (v.6-8) What was changed after Jesus rose again?How do things end up for those humbled? Matthew 23:12When are we to be lifted up? 1 Peter 5:6What will be the final state of all things? Colossians 1:15-18
The church in Corinth itself was the evidence that The Spirit was giving life.1. The Spirit wrote by means of Paul's words onto the hearts of the Corinthians. (v.1-3)2. The Spirit gave confidence to Paul in his calling. (v.4)3. The Spirit gave competence to Paul to serve in the new covenant. (v.5-6)How do we know that God is at work?In what way does God write upon human hearts? Jer. 32:33When do hearts change? Ezek. 36:26-27, Gal. 3:10-11,21What makes the new covenant better? Heb. 9:15, Rom. 8:3
Because Paul was commissioned by God, Paul was guaranteed victory, despite experiencing hardships.1. Paul's loving burden for the Corinthians was a hardship. (v.12-13)2. Paul was thankful that God always spreads the gospel - like the sweet smell of victory. (v.14)3. Paul became the sweet smell of victory, remaining conscious that God was accomplishing gains through Paul. (v.15-17)What does spiritual victory smell like?When does loving concern feel like a heavy burden? 2 Tim. 2:12How do we know that victory is assured? Col 2:15, Rom. 16:20When is triumph to be expected? Prov. 28:12, Rev. 11:15
Our King died quickly as a ransom to set us free, and His body was promptly wrapped and buried. This calls for a decision from all followers: will we keep looking for Our buried King?1. Jesus' quick death was eye-witnessed by a group of women who continued to follow Jesus. (v.40-41)2. A member of the Sanhedrin, who was looking for the kingdom of God, made a bold request for permission to honorably bury the body of Jesus, and the request was hesitatingly granted by Pilate, who had authorized His death. (v.42-45)3. Jesus' body was promptly wrapped and buried; this was also eye-witnessed by some of the same group of women. (v.46-47)What is the significance of the burial of Jesus?Why were Jesus' bones buried, but not broken? Ps. 34:20, Dt. 21:23How was Jesus was buried like a rich man? Is. 53:9, John 19:38How does this impact our faith? Rom.6:4;10:9-11, 1Cor.15:4,13,14
Because the risen Lord Jesus is present in the church by His Spirit, we are shown how to restore our fellowship with Christ and with each other.1. Forgiving, comforting, and loving those who caused us grief. (v.5-8)2. Passing the obedience test, in the presence of Christ. (v.9-10)3. Knowing Satan's strategies. (v.11)How can we restore broken fellowship?Who is grieved by our sins? Is.63:10, Eph. 4:30, Col. 3:12-13How many people's sins are seen by the eyes of God? Heb. 4:13When does Satan want us to forgive? Mt. 6:12-15, Eph. 6:11
Our King was forsaken so that we will never be; He breathed His last and rose again, so that we will live forever. 1. Our King was forsaken in darkness. (v.33)2. Our King was forsaken and alone. (v.34-36)3. Our King died forsaken, opening our way to God. (v.37-41)In what ways was Jesus forsaken?Which plague followed the plague of darkness? Ex. 10:11-11:19How was the cry of Jesus a cry of forsakenness? Is. 53:6Who were kept apart by the curtain, now brought near? Heb.10:19-22
Our King suffered in our place when He was crucified, derided, mocked, and reviled. 1. While being crucified, Jesus loved us to the end. (v.21-24)2. While being crucified, Jesus reigned to the end. (v.25-27)3. Jesus chose to save us, not Himself. (v.29-32)What made the crucifixion even worse for Jesus?Simon carried the cross; what impact was there? Rom. 16:13Why was there a distance to go to crucify Jesus? Heb. 13:12Why would passersby shake their heads? Lam. 2:15, Ps. 22:6-7
Since Jesus demonstrated abundant love for us on the cross, our relationships with each other are to develop that same abundant love.1. Love cooperates: lording it over others vs. cooperating with others for their joy. (1:23-24)2. Love is patient: the importance of the timing of Paul's next visit. (2:1-2)3. Love communicates: before Paul visited, his abundant love for them needed to be made known to them. (2:3-4)How can we know that God loves us?How are we to serve others? Mark 10:42-45, 1 Peter 5:3In what way are we free and slaves at the same time? Rom. 6:17-18Why is Christian love different from the world? Matt. 5:44-45
We see what others miss - that for our sakes, our King voluntarily endured the most disgraceful humiliation and rejection. -1. While rejecting Him, they added to His shame by calling together the whole battalion of soldiers to join in the perverse pleasure of fake adoration. -v.16--2. While rejecting Him, they faked adoring Him with royal purple and a crown, but made of thorns. -v.17--3. While rejecting Him, they struck Him, spit on Him, faked salutes and honor, and led Him out to crucify Him. -v.18-20--Why were the soldiers allowed to mock Jesus---From what curse did Jesus redeem us-- Gen. 3-15-18, 2 Cor. 8-9-How did Jesus become a curse for us-- Gal. 3-13, Deut. 21-23-What ought we to be ready to do-- Is. 53-7, Rom. 12-1, 2 Tim. 3-12
Since we can trust Jesus fully, we can have confidence in those who live by His Word and Spirit.-1. The Paul - Corinth two-way trust bond will be validated when Jesus comes. -v.12-14--2. Paul's love for Corinth was genuine, arising from God's trustworthiness. -v.15-19--3. God's promises are fulfilled in Jesus and further confirmed by His Word and Spirit, to God's glory. -v.20-22- -How is the resurrection linked to our reputation-- Rev. 12-10-Why was Paul's relationship with Corinth special-- Acts 18-9-11-When can Christians cause rejoicing-distress to us-- 2 Cor. 2-2-3-How valuable is a good name or reputation-- Proverbs 22-1
Our King suffered in our place when He was beaten and handed over to be crucified. -1. Which was chosen to be released - Barabbas or Jesus-- -v.6-9--2. The dark driving force of envy. -v.10-11--3. The conscience-deadening effect of the sin of crowd-pleasing -v.12-15--Why was innocent Jesus found guilty and put to death-- Acts 2-23-How did Jesus bring us to God-- 1 Pet. 2-24, 3-18, Is. 53-5,6,8-Difference between guilty - 'declared guilty'-- Rom. 5-1-How did Jesus redeem us from the curse of the law-- Gal. 3-13
God's plan is our ruin and our rescue, in order to move us from our dangerous self-relying over to relying on God alone, who raises the dead.-1. Paul was crushed. -v.8--2. Paul expected to die -v.9a-, and that drove him back to- - a. relying not on himself, but only on God. -v.9b-- b. setting his hope on God, who rescues. -v.10--3. Paul asked them to join in praying, and join in thanking. -v.11--Why does God allow us Christians to suffer---Is it -beyond our strength -v.8-- or can we -do all things--- Phil 4-13-Is it -we despaired -v.8-- or -not driven to despair--- 2 Cor. 4-8-Is it -beyond our strength- or -not beyond your ability--- 1 Cor.10-13
Jesus suffered in our place when He was handed over to Pilate, accused of being a military-governmental type of King. -ironically, this was precisely the sort of king that Jesus had disappointed the crowds for not being---1. Our king was arrested and handed over to the Roman authority named Pilate. -v.1-2--2. Our king was accused and questioned regarding His kingship - supposedly as a threat to Rome. -v.3-4--3. Our king was silent in His suffering, amazing even Pilate by His communication despite His silence- -v.5--How can Jesus be sinless, yet arrested---What is the reason that Jesus remained silent-- Mt. 7-6 Mk. 12-17-Which prophecies were fulfilled by His silence-- Is. 53-7, Zech. 9-9-Jesus was handed over- impact on us-- Heb.12-3, Rom 4-25, 8-32
We praise our God who always sends us two things- affliction and comfort.-1. Whenever God allows affliction to touch us, God provides comfort. -v.1-3a--2. Why won't God prevent our affliction-- -v.3b-4-- God allows our affliction, so that we can better appreciate-- a- that God's nature is to comfort, He constantly comforts us. -v.3b- - b- that affliction comes with God's comfort, - the comfort is greater- -v.4-- c- that we become channels of God's comfort to other sufferers- -v.4--3. We each get the twin pack- both affliction and comfort through Christ. -v.5-7--How can Christians accept our sufferings---What sort of comforts does God give us-- Is. 40-1, 51-12, 66-13-How can we be certain that God cares-- Ps. 145-9, Eph. 3-13-What enables us to rejoice in our sufferings-- Col. 1-24
Our King remained faithful, while being disowned His disciple, so that we will never be disowned by God.-1. Before yielding to temptation - see the pride and risk. -v.66--2. While yielding to temptation - see the selfishness and easiness of cascading down. -v.67-71--3. After yielding to temptation - see the painful, hopeful path to repenting and renewing. -v.72--What happens before, during and after temptation---After falling into sin, where is our only hope-- Psalm 130-3-5-After repenting, what happens-- Prov. 14-14, 1 John 1-9-Where is strength to be found-- Is 1-18, 2 Cor. 12-9-10
Because Jesus rose again, we are personally and permanently bonded to each other. -1. We possess a bond of love that is comprehensive. -v.12-16--2. We benefit from refreshing relationships of joy and holiness between persons and churches. -v.17-20--3. Maintaining healthy community connections is one of our core values- so we insist on it, we protect it, and we restore it. -v.21-24--What atmosphere has been generated by Christ's resurrection---From where did this bond of love originate-- Deuteronomy 7-12-13-How do we know it is reciprocal-- Proverbs 11-25-Who is willing to work at bonding-- Ephesians 4-3
Since Jesus rose again, there is a permanent impact on our Christian community. -1. What we have, we share for needs - for kingdom advance.-v.1-4--2. We are friends to each other, sharing life. -v.5-9--3. We welcome everyone, across all dividing lines. -v.10-11--What difference does the resurrection make for us this week---How does God expect us to give-- Rom. 15-25-32-What do our travels have to do with our relationships-- 1 Cor. 4-19-How important is our treatment of people-- 1 Peter 2-17
Our King Jesus is the righteous, yet He endured betrayal and loneliness for the sake of us sinners. -1. The deceitfulness of the kiss. -v.43-45--2. The forcefulness of the arrest. -v.46--3. The completeness of the defection. -v.47-52--How is Gethsemane a preparation for Calvary---Why was Jesus counted among the rebels-- Isaiah 53-12-How can we avoid the road of Judas-- 1 John 1-8-10-What happens to courage in the face of troubles-- Amos 2-16
Christ is risen, and so we are already now living out the victory--1. Our bodies are not suited for heaven, so we must be transformed. -v.50-53--2. Our bodily transformation is what marks our victory over death. -v.54-55--3. Our victory over death, sin, and the law comes through Christ. -v.56-57--Conclusion- Keep on being faithful and productive, because Christ's rising is your victory. -v.58--Where is the resurrection victory seen in our own lives---With whom is our struggle-- Ephesians 6-12-What do we get someday-- 2 Corinthians 5-4-How can we know our work is not in vain-- Isaiah 65-23
At the beginning of his Gospel, Mark walks us through a day in the life of Jesus to show--1. Jesus' authority in His teaching. -v.21-22--2. Jesus' authority over demons. -v.23-28--3. Jesus' authority over disease. -v.29-31-
The answer to how the bodily resurrection of the dead is possible is The Resurrection Giver.-1. Notice God's patterns of botanical life out of death, and types of terrestrial bodies and celestial glories. -v.35-41--2. Understand the radical differences between the risen body and its earthly counterpart. -v.42-44a--3. Consider how Christ will bridge the earthly and the heavenly. -v.44b-49--Why do people hesitate at the idea of the dead being raised---Who will transform our bodies to be like Jesus' body-- Phil 3-20-21-What did Jesus say about Himself-- What verb tense-- John 11-25-How does the Bible describe our inheritance-- 1 Peter 1-4
When Paul is at the end of his life, in his most trying time and when most have abandoned him, the Lord stands by his side.-Paul's example and his well-known words in v. 7 challenge us to look to our Lord in trying times, and trust Him to give us the strength to--1. Fight the Good fight...-2. Finish the race...-3. Keep the faith...
This is a message about God's faithfulness in our most trying times. The setting is Absalom's rebellion and David's flight from Jerusalem.-From the text we will explore....-1. The depths of David's brokenness-2. The resilience of David's faith-3. The faithfulness of David's God... who sends a faithful friend-Takeaway- God is the hero... he sent us Jesus, a friend who sticks closer than a brother, in our time of need.
Rather than God the Father removing the cup, God the Son drank it, enduring the separation from His Father that our sins deserved, so that we get to drink the cup of salvation. -1. The amazement of Jesus at His required suffering. -v.32-35--2. The submission of Jesus to His Father. -v.36--3. The disappointment of Jesus in His companions. -v.37-42--How does obeying help us with our suffering---Why would there be a cup of suffering for anyone-- Jer. 25-15,17-What is actually in the cup-- Is. 51-17,22, Ps. 116-13, Heb. 12-2-How much suffering would we endure, if called to-- 1 Peter 2-21
The fact of the resurrection of Christ, guarantees our resurrection.-1. The aftereffect IF Christ HAD NOT risen. -v.12-19--2. The aftereffect THAT Christ DID rise. -v.20-28--3. The aftereffect of denying the resurrection. -v.29-34--How important is Christ's resurrection for our own resurrection---What would it mean for our future, if Jesus had not risen-- Col. 3-3-When was The Feast of Firstfruits to be celebrated-- Leviticus 23-11-Can a believer miss the resurrection-- 1 Thess. 4-13-14
Since Christ has saved us and is bringing us through this world, we need Him more than we need food or anything else.-1. We seek more of the Christ whom we already have.-2. Our progress does not depend on ourselves.-3. We remind ourselves that Christ is the life-giver- just as the food that we need is a gift from Him, so also everything else that we need is a gift from Him.-As Christians, what is our relationship to food---When are we reminded that food is a good gift-- 1 Tim. 4-3-5-How do we view our gifts from God-- James 1-17-How do we both fast-eat to the Lord-- 1 Cor. 10-31 Rom. 14-6
Because of the evidence, Jesus' resurrection is indisputable.-1. The Risen Christ appeared alive to many people. -v.5-6--2. The Risen Christ appeared to apostles, including Paul. -v7-.8--3. The Glorified Christ appeared to Paul, and commissioned him as a genuine apostle. -v.9-11--Why do all attempts to dispute the resurrection fail---How did Paul face his shame for attacking believers-- 1 Tim 1-12-16-As Paul reckoned it, why did he have a ministry at all-- 2 Cor. 4-1-When did Christ appear to Paul, and what did it mean-- Acts 9-1-31
Whenever we are na-ve enough to think -I would never deny my Lord,- we need to be reminded of the prediction of Jesus that all would deny Him.-1. Pride- everyone messes up, why do you still think that you are special-- -v.26-27--2. Grace- Jesus is not done with those who mess up, so are you still trying to earn something or prove something-- -v.28--3. A humbling lesson- have you yet learned the difference between being emphatic and being cautious-- Are you still denying your denying-- -v.29-31--Why is it important to see ourselves accurately---What gain is seeing our weakness-- Pv.16-18,1Cor.10-12,1Pet. 2-21-When does sovereignty comfort us-- Is.53-4 Ps.77-19, Pv.28-26-How does God advance His kingdom with such people-- Jn 21-15-17
The resurrection is an indispensable part of the gospel, that stabilizes our lives--1. The fact and impact of the resurrection is indispensable to gospel preaching. -v.1--2. Receiving the truth of the resurrection is indispensable to being saved. -v.2--3. Holding to the physical resurrection is indispensable to our living Biblical and stabilized lives. -v.3-4--Why is it that we cannot do without the resurrection---What is the origin of the gospel-- Gal. 1-11-Why is drifting from the gospel a continuing concern-- Heb. 2-1-Where did the Bible prophesy resurrection-- Is.53-10-12 Ps. 16-10
God made a new covenant with us sinners, delivering us from our sins through the obedience of Jesus to having His body broken and His blood shed.-1. The true, once-for-all Passover Lamb is Jesus, who prepared and commanded The Passover celebration in order to make sure that He would be sacrificed for us. -v.12-16--2. The twelve disciples' last OT Passover bread and cup became the lasting NT supper with The Lord, who obeyed despite being betrayed by one of those twelve communing disciples. -v.17-22--3. The cup of Passover, Last Supper, First Supper, unfinished supper, is given for us to drink with our Lord now and forever. -v.23-25--How did The Lord's Supper get started---What was the role of blood in the old covenant-- Ex. 24-3-8-Whose idea was it to establish a new covenant-- Jer. 31-31-34-How do we know the origin of The Lord's Supper-- 1 Cor. 11-24-25
The Lord commanded that we cooperate, preserve harmony, and align our public worship services for the upbuilding of His church.-1. We cooperate with the use of our spiritual gifts for upbuilding the church. -v.26-33--2. We preserve harmony in the church. -v.34-35--3. We align worship with God's Word and with God's other churches. -v.36-40--What is edifying to the church---What builds us up in faith, stir us to act, and cheer us-- Acts 2-42-What ministries are helpful to us as believers-- Is. 66-2-Test- is this constructive for God's people-- Jn 8-31 - 1 Jn 4-6
The presence of a grudging attitude towards Christ and His work in the world is always a warning sign of danger to oneself and danger to others from a heart not valuing Jesus.-1. The grave fact of the betrayal by Judas, who despite being chosen by Jesus to be one of His twelve disciples, revealed his heart's false profession when he held back from serving Jesus, and now turned back from serving Jesus, in contrast to the woman who revealed her heart's true profession when she anointed Jesus. -v.10a--2. The unhumorous scene that after Judas had just witnessed her beautiful and extravagant anointing of Jesus, he departed at once from there in order to offer to provide to His killers the key information to deliver over Jesus quietly, which convinced them to arrest Jesus during the feast, in exchange for their promise of silver. -v.10b--3. The grim evidence that partially motivated by greed, Judas began seeking how-when to turn Jesus over to the religious leaders motivated by murderous hatred and their need for stealth to avoid an uproar. -v.11--Why is our own response to Jesus so telling---What question did Jesus often ask His disciples-- Luke 9-20-Who must be careful about love of money-- 2 Tim 6-10, Mt. 6-24-If a heart is thieving, what will be the actions-- John 12-6
The emphasis in worship is not on interesting and impressive spiritual gifts that might divide, but rather on lovingly using spiritual gifts to explain God's Word so that everyone understands and unites. -Historical note- Before the New Testament books were completed, God revealed instructions through speaking in tongues, paired with prophesying -- explaining the tongues-speaking-. Later, tongues were replaced by the completed Bible. Apostles preaching without a completed New Testament were replaced by pastors preaching with a completed New Testament. There is no longer a need for either apostles or tongues, because we have the completed Bible and The Spirit.-1. Build the church- tongues were less valuable, because the understanding was for one person, not the whole church. -v.1-9--2. Don't distract. tongues, like all gifts, must be used as God intended. Tongues must be paired with the explaining, for the understanding of all. -v.10-19--3. Worship God together. Tongues were a temporary sign confirming to any visiting unbelievers that God was present. Nowadays hearing God's Word clearly proclaimed is what brings an awareness of God's holy presence, a conviction of sin, a call to faith, an upbuilding of faith, a unifying of the church, and the worshipping of God- -v.20-25--What is the role of tongues in the history of redemption---A blessing- judgment at Babel-Pentecost-- Gen.11-1-9, Acts 2-4-11-When did people did not listen to God through tongues-- Is.28-21-What did Paul mean about building the church-- Ephesians 2-19-22
One believing woman showed how there should be no holding back in valuing Jesus and giving our hearts in worship. -1. Her surprising, extravagant, and beautiful anointing of Jesus. -v.3--2. An ugly reaction- worshipping Jesus is a waste of money-- -v.4-5--3. A rare addition to the worldwide story- her action illustrated the gospel by breaking-pouring out one's greatest treasure- -v.6-9--What are the various ways that people react to Jesus---In what way did Jesus become poor-- 2 Corinthians 8-9-What is the contrast of this woman with Judas-- Mark 14-21-Why does a servant of Christ not need man's approval-- Gal. 1-10
A fundamental truth never to be forgotten about Spiritual gifts, is that they are worthless without love.-1. When you don't have love. -v.1-3--2. When you do have love. -v.4-7--3. Of all the spiritual gifts-skills, love is simply the best. -v.8-13--What is the context of this chapter---Who loved us first-- 1 John 3-16 and 4-19 -What is the model of love for us to imitate-- Ephesians 4-32-5-2-Which commands of God are top priority-- Matthew 22-35-40
They had the plot to kill Jesus, but God had the plot to have Jesus executed in order to pass over us. -1. Who would seek to kill Jesus-- -v.1a--2. How would they kill Jesus-- -v.1b--3. When would they kill Jesus-- -v.2--As we think over this, what are we to learn, believe, and do---What's the meaning of The Passover-- Ex. 12-1-20, Col 2-13-14-How long had they planned to kill Jesus-- Mk. 3-6, 12-7, 1 Cor. 5-7-Why was Jesus delivered up at the feast-- Mt. 26-1-5 vs. Mk 14-2
Christ is our head, and we are His body, which means that all believers need each other.-1. The beauty of needing each other. -v. 12-13- -2. Ridiculous, damaging illusions that we do not need each other. -v.14-26--3. How we recover the truth and beauty that we need each other. -v. 27-31--Which people in the church do you think you do not need-- Why---What pictures of the church did God give us-- 1 Peter 2-5-Which people are not to receive baptism-- Matthew 28-18-20-How are gifts linked to the 'still more excellent way'-- 1 Cor. 14-1
Stay spiritually awake and serving- we keep on viewing all of our living now in the light of then -whenever Jesus returns-.-1. Dual truths- we do not know when Jesus will return, but we are certain that Jesus will return. -v.32-33--2. Our lives are shaped by these dual truths, like servants constantly waiting for the master to return at any moment. -v.34-36--3. Our lives are governed by our staying spiritually awake and ever watching for the return of Jesus. -v.37--What is the application of these truths to our lives---For whom were all things created-- Colossians 1-15-16-While we remain alert, what are we to do-- Eph. 5-14, Titus 2-12-13-Those who have hope in God always do what-- 1 John 3-2-3
Everyone benefits from the gifts that God gives to the church.-1. Pure gifts- not deserved, rather given-under the Lordship of Christ. -v.1-6--2. Group gifts- distributed to each person, yet for the common good. -v.7--3. Various gifts- assorted abilities apportioned individually, as God wills. -v.8-11--What is in it for us---Who can take away the gifts God gives us-- Romans 11-29-Is there anyone without a spiritual gift-- 1 Peter 4-10-11-Where can we go to get these gifts-- Acts 8-18-19
The fig tree lesson- because we have Christ coming soon, and we have His Word, we truly worship God and we bear spiritual fruit now.-1. No fruit means not becoming the true worshippers that God designed us to be. -11-12-14--2. We are designed to be worshippers who believe God and forgive others- all our fruits come from these roots. -11-20-25--3. In worship, we remain aware of the nearness of Christ and the trustworthiness of His Word, and we live accordingly. -13-28-31--What is the main lesson we supposed to learn---What is the fruit for Christians-- Galatians 5-22-Who are fruitless trees-- Jude 1-12-How should we respond to doubts-- Heb. 11-6 James 1-6
Communing together with Christ and each other shows the unity of the people of God.-1. Misuses of the Lord's table lead to divisions. -v. 17-22- -2. The correct focus of The Lord's Supper heals divisions. -v.23-26--3. Care must be taken to properly partake together. -v. 27-31--What is one of the symbols of church unity---Who is the bread of life- what happens to those who eat-- Jn 6-35-58-When is the next time Jesus will drink the wine-- Matthew 26-26-29-Why is unity so important in the church-- 1 Peter 3-8
Watch out- By listening to what Jesus revealed, His disciples know that The Son of Man will come to gather His people.-1. His signs. -v.24-25--2. His powers. -v.26--3. His gathering. -v.27--What are things for which we must keep watch---Who will come to bring our redemption-- Luke 21-28-What else is revealed when Jesus is revealed-- 1 Thess. 1-7-How does the Bible describe the role of angels-- Heb. 1-14
Since we worship in order to glorify God, we must not distract by our traditions and practices of what we wear or what we do in church. -1. Voluntary submission in our worship -wife to husband, husband to Christ, Christ to God the Father- reflects headship in function within the created order, and does not indicate inferiority of value of any persons. -v.2-10--2. God-glorifying worship includes both eternally valid principles -headship, image-glory of God, modesty- and culturally time-stamped principles -our customs, choice of clothing, type of greetings-. -v.11-12--3. Reasonable and spiritual worship requires that we use our minds to discern and distinguish what is proper from what is immoral, finding unity in our worship practices in the churches of God. -v.13-16--Why does it matter what we wear to church---Jesus is equal with God- yet submits, - God gets glory- Phil 2-6,11-In what way is the kiss of greeting a similar issue-- 2 Cor. 13-12-We present our bodies- it is spiritual worship. Why-- Rom.12-1-2
Watch out- By listening to what Jesus revealed, His disciples understand, take right actions, and avoid being led astray.-1. God provided a way to understand. -v.14--2. Jesus gave action steps to do, based on that understanding. -v.14b-18--3. Jesus forewarned His followers how to avoid being led astray. -v.19-23--With instructions from Jesus, how can one still be led astray---Where do we get spiritual understanding-- Dan. 1-17, 2-21-23, 12-10-What is an abomination of desolation-- Dan. 9-27, 11-31, 12-11-How could a miracle be false-- Deut. 13-1-2, 2 Thess. 2-3-10
After Christ ascended, He gave us the biggest gift - the Spirit--1. Know about the grand event, and celebrate. -v.1-4--2. Learn about the power, and be amazed. -v.5-12--3. Understand Peter's explanation, and call on God. -v.14-21--How does this apply to us---What do you know about the power of the Spirit-- Ezekiel 37-9-14-Who may call on the name of the Lord-- Romans 10-9-13-Who says not to harden your heart-- Hebrews 3-7-12
Watch Out- do not be led astray into speculating when the world will end, but rather trust Jesus, enjoy His good news, testify, and endure to the end.-1. Watch out- do not be led astray- -by buildings, persons, events- The end is not yet- -v.1-8--2. Watch yourselves- -spread gospel, testify, trust-. -v.9-11--3. Endure to the end- -family may oppose you, people may hate you for Jesus' sake-. -v.12-13--What tempts us to be anxious about the end of the world---What is our motivation for enduring all things-- 1 Cor. 13-7-What are our 3 stock approaches to troubles-- Romans 12-12-How is Christ an example of enduring-- Hebrews 12-2
Everything we do - even eating and drinking - are for a purpose.-1. living for the good of ourselves and the good of neighbors. -v.23-30--2. living for the glory of God. -v.31--3. living for the salvation of others. -v.32-ch.11-1--Why do Christians do what we do---Can we love neighbors, if we don't love ourselves-- Mark 12-31-What is our one main driving purpose-- 1 Thessalonians 2-12-Who can be saved, according to Jesus-- Matthew 19-25-26
Since we belong to Christ in loyalty, we must not participate in false worship anytime, anywhere.-1. Participating leads to fellowshipping. -v.15-16-2. Participating leads to identifying. -v.17-18--3. Participating leads to provoking the Lord- -v.19-22--Why is this cup called the cup of blessing---Why is the number so important-- One bread, one body-- Eph. 4-4-6-Where does loyalty enter The Lord's Supper-- Rom 8-5-9-If we drink a demon's cup, how does God respond-- Deut. 32-15-18
In the ascension of Jesus, we learn about our King.-1. His timing. -v.1-7--2. His witnesses. -v.8--3. His plans. -v.9-11--How does it feel to have a king---When does the Lord do things-- Rom 5-6 and 2 Peter 3-9-Where must we bear witness-- Matthew 10-18-What does God have in store for us-- Jeremiah 29-11-13
God provided the church to the world in order to manifest the peace, purity, and unity that he has won for us in Christ.-1. The Basics of the Church-2. The Functions of the Church-3. The Responsibilities of the Church
Only Christ gives us spiritual life, and all idols lead to death.-1. Our forefathers show the history of Christ vs. idolatry. -v.1-6--2. Our faithful Lord helps us to avoid idolatry's traps. -v.7-12--3. We must flee idolatry, through the provided way of escape. -v.13-14--Where must we turn, throughout out lives---How did Paul apply the OT Rock that provided water-- Exodus 17-6-What has God given to us, compared to OT people-- Hebrews 1-1-2-Why do the Corinthians have greater responsibility-- Heb.11-39-40
Christ gave us the way to gain souls- adaptive witnessing.-1. loving - willing to adapt. -v.19-22--2. disciplined - able to remain the bridge from unbelievers to Christ, without compromising nor pulling away. -v.23-27--3. intentional - do it for the goal of gaining souls, including our own. -v.23--What is the common ground that we can establish with unbelievers---Your background, does it matter for witnessing-- Phil. 3-4-6-Which things have value to you--...your priorities-- 1 Tim. 4-6-10-According to this verse, do you want to be wise-- Prov. 11-30
Christ has given me what is better than my rights- a Christ-like heart that would willingly surrender my rights for others.-1. The rights are truly mine. -v.1-7--2. Spiritual rights operate the same way as other rights. -v.8-14--3. To forfeit my rights for a higher cause when needed is better than to claim my rights for my enjoyment. -v.15-18--How do we respond to the entitlements-pull of our flesh---I no longer live-- How does that help relinquish rights-- Gal. 2-20-To keep balance, what 2 concerns should we have-- Phil. 2-4-How much does the gospel cost you-- Isaiah 55-1, Rev. 22-17
Within a gospel community, Christ wants us to decide our gray areas with others in mind.-1. My viewpoint is not enough, I need yours also. -v.1-6- -2. We must all care for the tender ones. -v.7-11--3. We are all tied to Christ. -v.12-13--In what ways does the church reflect unity, not selfishness---How connected are knowing and loving-- 1 John 4-7-8 Eph. 4-15-Who is burdened by a sense of guilt-- Romans 14-23-When we hurt others, we sin vs. whom-- Mt. 18-6 25-40 1 Pet.1-4
An eternity mindset helps us to see singleness and marriage as gifts, and not as distractions from serving God. -1. In our present distress -v.26-, in our brief time in this world -v.29-, and in a world that is passing away -v.31-, our eternity mindset changes how we see--a- relationships -v.29- -b- losses -v.30- -c- happiness -v.30- -d- possessions -v.30- -d- culture -v.31- -2. A married Christian must balance devotion to spouse-family and devotion to The Lord. -v.32-35--3. As Christians approach the decision to marry, we make the best decision that we can in the Lord, and continue being devoted to the Lord and His work. -v.36-40--How does eternity inform your decision whether to marry---What is our top priority-- Matthew 6-33 and 22-30-What is the proper place of family for a Christian-- Luke 14-26-What is more important than whether you marry-- 2 Cor. 11-3
The works that Jesus does in the Father's name testify to who Jesus is.-1. The Displacement of the True Temple -2. The Success of the True Temple
Since Jesus bought our bodies with the price of His death on the cross, we must accept God's calling for our bodies.-1. God's gospel calling for your body - marriage. -v.1-7, 10-11--2. God's gospel calling for your body - singleness. -v.6-9--3. God's gospel calling for your whole lifetime - with changes. In redemption, your body tracks along the unique avenue that the Lord has sovereignly designed for you- -v.12-24--How do we adjust our thinking to God's plan for our bodies---What will be one of the signs of apostasy-- 1 Timothy 4-3-How must everyone view marriage-- Heb. 13-4-What is one basic guiding truth-- Genesis 2-18
The answer to how the bodily resurrection of the dead is possible is The Resurrection Giver.-1. Notice God's patterns of botanical life out of death, and types of terrestrial bodies and celestial glories. -v.35-41--2. Understand the radical differences between the risen body and its earthly counterpart. -v.42-44a--3. Consider how Christ will bridge the earthly and the heavenly. -v.44b-49--Why do people hesitate at the idea of the dead being raised---Who will transform our bodies to be like Jesus' body-- Phil 3-20-21-What did Jesus say about Himself-- What verb tense-- John 11-25-How does the Bible describe our inheritance-- 1 Peter 1-4
The fact of the resurrection of Christ, guarantees our resurrection.-1. The aftereffect IF Christ HAD NOT risen. -v.12-19--2. The aftereffect that Christ did rise. -v.20-28--3. The aftereffect of denying the resurrection. -v.29-34--How important is Christ's resurrection for our own resurrection---What would it mean for our future, if Jesus had not risen-- Col. 3-3-When was The Feast of Firstfruits to be celebrated-- Leviticus 23-11-Can a believer miss the resurrection-- 1 Thess. 4-13-14
Our mourning and crying out to God comforts us by reminding us that the Lord our God is still sovereign.-1. Remembering requires overcoming our condition. -v. 1-10- -2. Remembering requires overcoming our own individual suffering. -v. 11-18--3. Remembering requires overcoming our unanswered questions. -v. 19-22--How do you pray when you need renewal---Who was truly forsaken- how do we know-- Ps. 22-1, Mt. 27-46-Who will never be forsaken- how do we know-- Hebrews 13-5-What is promised to those who mourn-- Matthew 5-4
After we lament the loss of splendor, we return to God for hope.-1. The splendor lost. -v.1-11--2. The reason. -v.12-20- -3. Yet hoping in the God of Reversal. -v. 21-22--What role does grieving have in a Christian's life---Where is splendor to be found-- Hebrews 11-8-10-How can we praise God when if milk-honey stop flowing-- Ex. 3-8-What splendor is in the heavenly city-- Hebrews 11-11-16
Since we have Christ in us, we have His peace, and we must praise Him.-1. Who is Christ---2. Why must we praise Him-- -3. What is the result---When we reflect on Palm Sunday, what are we to learn---Define peace in the words of verse 42. When did you find peace in your heart-- How peaceful are you, as a person---Why do you sometimes lack peace and praise-- Pinpoint a reason or a time. How does the gospel change your thinking at that point---Who says God must be praised-- Who found whom-- Phil 3-12. Why--
The works that Jesus does in the Father's name testify to who Jesus is.-1. The Accusation -vs. 31-33--2. The Quotation -vs. 34-36--3. The Confrontation -vs. 37-39-
Because Christ redeemed us, we must honor God with our spirits and our bodies.-1. Christian liberty is important, but does not override the deeper fact that your body is both designed and redeemed for the Lord, not for immorality. -v.12-15--2. Immorality must be avoided with great effort and concern. -v.16-18--3. Your body is not yours to use however you choose. At the cross, your body and spirit were bought, making you a temple for The Holy Spirit- -v.19-20--Why is it important how we use our bodies---What are the parameters of Christian liberty-- Rom. 14-15-23-How far does it extend that the two become one-- Gen. 2-24-Who owns your body and why-- 1 Peter 1-18-19
Christ gave His church clear instructions for how to deal with serious conflict between Christians.-1. Understanding public courts vs. the courts of the church. -v.1-6--2. Understanding reconciliation in a Christian manner. -v.7-8- -3. Understanding the gospel, and its implications.-v.9-11--About what issue must we become zealous---Who will co-judge at the end of the world-- Mt. 19-28, Rev. 20-4-How are Christians supposed to relate to each other-- Eph. 4-16-What is the future for the unrepentant-- Hebrews 10-26-27
Christ gave His church clear instructions for how to deal with sinning brothers.-1. Publicly confirm no toleration of forbidden relationships. -v.1-5--2. Focus on Christ's sacrifice with sincerity and truth, and purge evil from the church. -v.6-8--3. Reach decisions about sinning brothers, and leave others to God. -v.9-13--How must we interact with sinning Christians---Where in the law of God is this forbidden-- Leviticus 18-8-What did Israelites get out of their homes-- Exodus 12-15-How many kingdoms are there-- Colossians 1-13-14
The works that Jesus does in the Father's name testify to who Jesus is.-1. The Interest of the People -vs. 22-26--2. The Security of the Sheep -vs. 27-28--3. The Father's Unity with the Son -vs. 29-30-
Christ calls us to follow Him, and He provides spiritual guides. -1. Many people claim to be our spiritual guides. -v.14-15a--2. God has raised up true spiritual guides for us. -v.15b-19--3. True spiritual guides show kingdom power and love. -v.20-21--When needing guidance, whom do you follow---To whom should we listen and whom should we follow-- Eph. 5-1-How does truth-falsehood relate to our daily living-- 3 John 3-What role does power and reigning have in guidance-- Rev. 20-6
In the train of the crucified Christ, here is how Christian leaders are viewed by the world- -1. Like a public show that is repulsive, yet somehow riveting. -v.9--2. Dishonorable. Not honored, and not left alone. Actively dishonored. -v.10--3. Those who must be openly vilified, reviled, and mistreated. -v.11-13--What is the public reputation of Christians---What public disturbance could Paul have in mind-- Acts 19-21-41-In being mistreated, how is Christ our example-- 1 Peter 2-21-23-When should we retaliate in kind-- Luke 23-34
The damage from being puffed up with pride, is the sins that flow from it.-1. Do not go beyond what is written, for no person is better. -v.6--2. Do not boast, for everything we have, was received from God. -v. 7--3. Do not settle in here, for the best is yet to come. -v.8--What is the danger of pride---What is the opposite of puffing up against others-- 1 Thess. 5-11-What is the only right object of our boasting-- Jeremiah 9-23-24-How do we view the present, in light of the future-- Hebrews 2-5-9
PLEASE NOTE- THE VIDEO RECORDING HAD GLITCHES AND WAS UNUSABLE. WE ONLY HAVE THE AUDIO FOR THIS SERMON.-Church leaders are servants of Christ, which means Christian leaders serve Christ by serving others.-1. Leaders-servants-stewards must be faithful. -v.1-2--2. Leaders are evaluated by the Lord, not by the world or even self. -v.3-4--3. The final evaluation of leaders must await the Lord's coming. -v.5--How important is it to be clear about the one to whom we answer---To whom does the servant give account-- Luke 16-2-Who knows our motives-- Hebrews 4-12-What happens to good leaders in the final end-- Romans 2-29
When Jesus makes claims about his own sovereignty, he puts people at a decisive crossroads in terms of what to think of him.-1. The Claims -v.17-18--2. The Controversy -v.19-21-
Christ shows us the beauty of the church.-1. The wisdom in the church. -v.18-20--2. The humility in the church. -v.21--3. The wealth of gifts in the church. -v.22-23--What happens when I believe a lie I told myself---What is the difference between wise and crafty-- Job 5-13-Who can distinguish the wise from the foolish-- Psalm 94-11-When will God's people reign with Christ-- Rom 4-13
Christ gave us the gift of His Holy Spirit--1. We are the holiest place - where the Holy Spirit dwells. -v.16--2. God fiercely protects us. -v.17a--3. We are holy- -v.17b--What blessing belongs to us---What ought we to know about ourselves-- Eph. 1-13-14-When someone destroys, what is the consequence-- Leviticus 15-31-How are the temple and the Spirit similar-- Eph. 2-20-21
Jesus identifies himself as the Good Shepherd of his sheep, whose protection and love extend to us this day who are united to him by faith.-1. The Good Shepherd's Description -vs. 11- -2. The Hireling's Cowardice -vs. 12-13--3. The Good Shepherd's Flock -vs. 14-16-
Christ's Church is like a building that needs a lot of contractors to work on it.-1. Paul was a skilled master builder. -v.10--2. Christ is our foundation. -v.11--3. Christ's workers build on the Christ-foundation. -v.12-15--Why do we get to participate---What is the reason that Paul could build-- 2 Tim. 1-9-Who asks contractors to come and build-- Mt. 16-18, Gal. 1-15-Who gives rewards to whom for what-- Rev. 11-18
Christ warned us about immaturity in God's co-workers.-1. The Spiritually immature - milk-fed - fleshly - have jealousy-strife. -v.1-3--2. Over-loyalty to certain persons is a sign of immaturity. -v.4-5--3. The mature know their place, and support all glory going to God. -v.6-9--Why are some people good co-workers and others not---Who lives on milk, and what does that mean-- Hebrews 5-11-14-If we chase celebrity Christians, what does it show-- 1 Peter 2-1-5-What must you do to be the greatest in the kingdom-- Luke 22-26
Christ has given us His Spirit so that we know and understand His thoughts, His wisdom and His mind--1. Our access to the thoughts of God. -v.11-12--2. Our ability to know spiritual wisdom. -v.13-15--3. Our incredible gift - the mind of Christ- -v.16--Who are spiritual persons, and who are not---Why are God's thoughts different than ours-- Isaiah 55-8-Who sent the Holy Spirit-- John 15-26, Acts 2-33-How do we gain from the mind of Christ-- Phil. 2-5
As Christ completes us into true maturity in which we lack nothing, He grants us the essential gift of wisdom.-1. Not the wisdom of human ingenuity, which is not wisdom at all. -v.6--2. Rather, we receive the true wisdom of God, that was formerly secret. -v.7-8--3. The Spirit reveals this wisdom to us. -v.9-10--What is true wisdom, and what is it not---What is the Christian's goal-- Colossians 1-28-What will happen to our bodies someday-- Philippians 3-21-Who gives life and blessing-- Can we just grab some-- John 6-63
Our faith is in the power of God, through Christ crucified.-1. Paul's proclaiming. -v.1-2--2. Paul's presence. -v.3-4--3. Paul's purpose. -v.5-6--How should we think about preaching---What was Paul's content for his speaking-- Galatians 6-14-Why would Paul be fearful and trembling-- Ephesians 6-5-Upon what is our faith built-- Matthew 7-24-27
See your calling- understand the deep lesson and remember it.-1. See that we were nobodies, with nothing to offer God. -v.26--2. See that inexplicably, we were the ones called by God. -v.27-28--3. See no room for boasting- all glory to God alone. -v.29-31--Why us - do we think that we bring something to the table---Does your background make you desirable to God-- Eph. 2-1-10-Why were we called by God-- 1 Thessalonians 1-4-From where does your righteousness come-- Philippians 3-9
When people who are called by Christ hear the preaching of Christ crucified, we hear God's power and wisdom.-1. Silly-- Those not called by Christ consider preaching silly. -v.18--2. Wise-- Other 'wisdom' paths do not lead to God. -v.19-22--3. Called-- Those called by Christ are drawn to know God. -v.23-25--Why does preaching have such a polarizing effect---How does the same object get such mixed reactions-- James 3-15-Who follows God with their hearts, who does not-- Mt.15-8-9-Where does the power reside-- Rom. 1-4 John 10-27
Jesus identifies himself as the door for the sheep that leads to life, in contrast with the false shepherds who lead to destruction.-1. The Door and the Robbers -vs. 7-8--2. The Nourished and the Deprived -vs. 9-10-
Christ calls us to preserve church harmony, by the power of His cross.-1. No divisions. -v.10--2. No quarrels. -v.11-13a--3. No disagreements, especially about the basics. -v.13b-17--To what way of relating are we called by Christ---How should Christians get along-- Philippians 4-2-What causes and cures quarrels among believers-- James 4-1-6-What ought we to be eager to maintain-- Why-- Eph. 4-1-3
We are all blessed to be called by Christ, and we praise God for each other's rich and various gifts.-1. Praise God for the gifts given to the church. -v.4-5--2. Praise God that the church does not lack any gift. -v.6-7--3. Praise God for future blessings, all the way to the end. -v.8-9--As a result of Christ's calling, what good things belong to us---How much do we see Christ's gifts in others-- Eph. 4-8, James 1-17-What is our error when we think something is missing-- Luke 22-35-How forward-looking are you on a daily basis-- Proverbs 23-18
Because Christ has sanctified us through His death and resurrection, He invites us to walk close to Him.-1. Called to be God's people within a sinful city. -v.1-2a--2. Called to be saints-holy - invited to walk close to God. -v.2b--3. Co-called as God's people, with Christians everywhere. -v.2c-3--What is your first and main calling in life---Despite others around you, what should you be-- Lev. 11-45-Whose idea is it for you to be near God-- James 4-8-With how many Christians are we united-- Hebrews 13-3
The first Christmas caused great joy for the shepherds.-1. Great fear. -v.8-9- -2. Great joy. -v.10- -3. Great Savior. -v.11-
The gift of Jesus is that our Savior is humble.-1. The King of Kings came under the decrees of a lesser king. -v.1-3--2. The Son of David allowed His royalty to be ignored. -v.4-5--3. The Christ-child allowed His body to be placed in a trough. -v.6-7--What does the birth of Jesus mean for us---Who sets the example for our attitude-- Philippians 2-3-4-Name the opposite of humility. Galatians 5-26-With what should we clothe ourselves-- 1 Peter 5-5-6
Jesus' shepherding allegory sets the stage for identifying himself as the true shepherd of his sheep.-1. The False Shepherd in the Allegory -vs. 1 - 5--2. The True Shepherd in the Allegory -vs. 2-4--3. The Ignorance of the Allegory -vs. 6-
The Christian greetings exchanged by Mary and Elizabeth, and their unborn babies, stands as a model for Christian greetings.-1. Greeting with eagerness. -v.39-40--2. Greeting with joy and honor. -v.41-44--3. Greeting by recognizing and blessing faith. -v. 45--What is important to maintain-- -2 Cor. 3-2-3--When not glad to see a Christian, what's wrong-- John 3-29-30,36.-What do we have in common- what greeting is fitting-- Heb.11-31.-How can we honor the faith of another-- Eph.4-29.
The statements of the Pharisees prove them to be the blind ones who abuse others to maintain their control.-1. Legalistic -vs. 13-17--2. Threatening -vs. 18-23--3. Presumptuous -vs. 24-34--4. Self-Righteous -vs. 40-41-
Because Christ did the impossible when He came, we are called to take the attitude of believing servants. -1. We appreciate the humiliation of Christ for us. -v.26-27--2. We know our privilege as servants of God. -v.28-32--3. We live expectantly. -v.33-38--Where do we go to put more faith in our attitudes---What did Christ come from, in order to save us-- John 1-14-How long will we remain believing servants of God-- Psalm 145-13-What promises of God do we have trouble absorbing-- James 1-12
The birth of John the Baptist foreshadowed the birth of Christ, in order to bring sinners back to God.-1. Eagerly desiring the arrival of a child. -v.5-17--2. Humbly being corrected by the Lord. -v.18-22--3. Joyfully receiving God's gracious removal of disgrace. -v.23-25- -What do we need to know about pre-Christmas---What are some other teachings that distract us-- 1 Timothy 1-15-Why would others be inclined listen to us-- Luke 2-52-Who is called to influence whom-- 1 Timothy 4-14-16
Since God gave us His Word, we accept with certainty the truth about the coming of Jesus.-1. We accept what The Spirit wrote about Jesus, not what others have said about Him. -v.1--2. We accept how good, orderly, and sufficient God's Word is to inform us about the coming of Jesus. -v.2-3--3. We accept with certainty of the things God revealed to us. -v.4--How did your beliefs get formed about Jesus and Christmas---About whom are the 1st 5 books of the Bible-- Jn 5-46, Lk 24-44 -What can be done to fortify you in the truth-- 2 Tim. 3-14-17-What is your view of the authority of Jesus-- Mt. 28-18. Ps.119-102
The centerpiece of our worship is when we listen to God in His Word.-1. Rejoice. -v.1-5--2. Remember. -v.6-10--3. Repent. -v.11-16- -What is the gain for us in having God's Word---Why should we sing and celebrate-- Exodus 15-20, Deut. 6-4-If people do not listen, what is next-- Acts 7-42. Rom. 1-24,26,28.-So, what is your heart to do, while you sing-- Eph. 5-19-20
David addressed this song to His own heart- we remind ourselves to express thankfulness for God's favor.-1. On a personal note. -v.1-5--2. Good reasons to worship Him. -v.6-18--3. Everyone, worship God with me- -v.19-22--How do we convince ourselves and others to worship---Where did our sicknesses go-- Matthew 8-16-17-What is God like, and what is our rejoinder-- Exodus 34-5-7-Why would others be motivated to join in-- Dt. 8-10-14, Is. 55-6-9
Because our King has rescued us, our response is singing for joy.-1. Our rescue. -v.1-3--2. Our victory song. -v.4-6--3. Our back-up chorus. -v.7-9--How ought one to respond to being rescued---What was the source of our rescue-- Hebrews 10-14-How do people respond to a good King-- 1 Kings 1-39-40-How can inanimate objects respond to a King-- Is.55-12
In Psalm 34, our good God gave us four steps to cope with a crisis.-Step 1. Decide to praise God throughout the crisis. -v.1-3--Step 2. Learn about God early in the crisis. -v.4-7--Step 3. Teach others in the middle of the crisis. -v.8-9--Step 4. Hide from the crisis in The LORD, follow His way, and wait it out. -v.10-22--What do most people typically do in a crisis---When tempted to call on others to see how great our suffering is, how can we learn to instead show them how great our God is-- 1 Samuel chapters 17 and 21 -If we give up hope, what, specifically, have we forgotten-- Exodus 34-6-7-When trouble breaks our hearts, do we experience a closeness of God, or do we demand removal of the crisis-- 2 Corinthians 12-7-10
We praise our generous God. -1. We commend God's works to the next generation. -v.1-7--2. We give thanks to God for His love- -v.8-13--3. We make God known to others. -v.14-21--What should we do in response to God's generosity---Who is singing the praises of the Father-- Hebrews 2-12-Why should we praise God, too-- Ephesians 1-3-Why have we been called out of darkness into light-- 1 Peter 2-9
Watch out- By listening to what Jesus revealed, His disciples understand, take right actions, and avoid being led astray.-1. God provided a way to understand. -v.14--2. Jesus gave action steps to do, based on that understanding. -v.14b-18--3. Jesus forewarned His followers how to avoid being led astray. -v.19-23--With instructions from Jesus, how can one still be led astray---Where do we get spiritual understanding-- Dan. 1-17, 2-21-23, 12-10-What is this abomination of desolation-- Dan. 9-27, 11-31, 12-11-How could a miracle be a false trick-- Deut. 13-1-2, 2 Thess. 2-3-10
The New Testament church is a godly suffering community - like personified Jerusalem - that keeps returning to The LORD our portion. -1. Discovering and confessing how far we wandered from God. -v.40-47--2. Grieving and repenting with rivers of tears. -v.48-54--3. Pleading for and hoping in God's rescue and protection. -v.55-66--In what way are we like the ancient city of Jerusalem---When is it time to examine our souls-- Psalm 139-23-24-Which kind of sorrow shows true hearts-- 2 Cor. 7-10, Is. 29-13-Who is viewed as the scum of the world-- 1 Cor. 4-13
The statements of the formerly blind man illustrate his development in following Jesus.-1. Statements to the neighbors -8-12--2. Statements to the Pharisees the First Time -vs. 15-17--3. Statements to the Pharisees the Second Time -vs. 24-38-
Between our current suffering and our future relief, we have a limited opportunity to lament, while God uses this time to produce something good.-1. While we lament that waiting itself has become our new hardship, we discover afresh the goodness of The Lord. -v.25-27- -2. While we lament, The Lord reassures us that our suffering will end. -v.28-33--3. While we lament under God's design, we gain true contentment. -v.34-39--What is unique about times of pain and suffering---Why is there always a future aspect to hope-- Romans 8-24-When is it harder to submit to God's will-- 1 Peter 2-21-25-Whom does the Lord chastise and why-- Hebrews 12-6
During hardships, we are lovingly led by our faithful God to a breakthrough of finding hope again.-1. Hardships feel dark, overwhelming, and hopeless- -v.1-18--2. Breakthrough to hope- -a- we appeal to God to see our hardships -b- we call to mind the truth about God, -c- we re-interpret our hardships, daring to hope again. -v.19-21- -3. Re-interpretation- The LORD is all we need for hope and comfort during our hardships. -v. 22-24--Where do you reach for hope and a reason to go on---Who is on our side when we have sinned-- 1 John 2-1-How does this remind you of Christ's sufferings-- Is. 53, Ps.22-Why should we not be anxious during difficulties-- Rom. 8-28
Watch Out- do not be led astray into speculating when the world will end, but rather trust Jesus, enjoy His good news, testify, and endure to the end.-1. Watch out- do not be led astray- -by buildings, persons, events- The end is not yet- -v.1-8--2. Watch yourselves- -spread gospel, testify, trust-. -v.9-11--3. Endure to the end- -family may oppose you, people may hate you for Jesus' sake-. -v.12-13--What tempts us to be anxious about the end of the world---What is our motivation for enduring all things-- 1 Cor. 13-7-What are our 3 stock approaches to troubles-- Romans 12-12-How is Christ an example of enduring-- Hebrews 12-2
When we suffer, we are to return to its Source, asking Him for comfort and aid.-1. The LORD became like an enemy- -v.1-10--2. The LORD intended our suffering. -v.11-17- -3. The LORD teaches us to cry out to Him- -v. 18-22--Why does God not stop all of our hurting right away---What is the undergirding principle for pain-- Galatians 6-7-What is encouraging about our suffering-- Hebrews 12-6-Of what else is God the source-- 2 Cor. 1-3-9
After the man was healed of his blindness, he goes through similar experiences that other believers do, and yet has the same Savior to come to his aid as we do.-1. Confusion and Anger -vs. 8-17--2. Disregard and Abuse -18-34--3. Compassion and Defense -vs. 35-41-
In our suffering and sorrows, we cope like Christians by turning to God to seek His compassion and righteousness.-1. Lord, look and have compassion- -v.1-11--2. Friends, look and have compassion- -v.12-17- -3. Look, O LORD, in Your righteousness- -v. 18-22--How are Christians to deal with guilt, pain and loss---Why are we urged to avoid sin-- 2 Corinthians 7-1-How does Jesus know what our grief is like-- Isaiah 53-3-When will our tears be wiped away-- Revelation 21-4
Ch. 1-2 speeches against six countries nearby, then speeches against Judah-Israel--Ch. 3-6 a longer speech against Israel, including the warning that exile is coming.--Ch. 7-9-1-10, the preaching of Amos - five visions of coming judgment.--Ch. 9-11-15 a nice ending- Days of blessing, Israel-David's fam. can go home again.
The Lord Jesus reversed the perceptions of the disciples, teaching them that giving is a window into our hearts.-1. Some people make a big production about giving a lot, yet they remain quite comfortable, having a lot left over. -v.41--2. Other people quietly and joyfully give to God sacrificially, knowing that God will take care of them. -v.42--3. Jesus sees why we give. -v.43-44--How much was God's gift to us-- 2 Cor 9-15 -What religion is pure and undefiled before God-- James 1-27-Who is rich towards God-- Luke 12-21, James 2-5-Where does God look when measuring-- 1 Sam. 16-7, Mt. 6-21
Since grace was shown to their exiled King, then God had not abandoned His exiled people- later in Jesus, the new and better Jehoiachin, there is more grace to come. -1. The exiled king was brought out of prison. -v.31--2. The exiled king received kindness, while in exile. -v.32-33--3. The exiled king had his daily needs met, until the day of his death. -v.34--When our king is in exile, is there hope for us---What will happen to those in slavery-- Heb. 2-14-15-When does more grace come to us-- Jer. 31-2, Gal. 4-4-How did God provide for us-- 2 Sam. 7-1-16, Heb.12-28
In referring to Jesus as the Son of Man, and comparing him to the serpent in the wilderness, John is showing Jesus' proficiency to speak of the things of heaven.-1. The Son of Man Descended-2. The Son of Man Ascended-3. The Life Offered
God explained the measure of a leader.-1. Does he keep God's covenant- -v.1-10--2. Does he know God- -v.11-17--3. Does he obey God- -v.18-23--4. Does he hear the Word of God- -v.24-30--Applying- -When God looks at leaders, what characteristics are needed--What must God's king do- Deuteronomy 17-18-20-Which king measures up to God's standard- Luke 19-37-38-How do we see the true King ruling over us- Matthew 21-5
The discussion with Nicodemus shows us a concrete example of how Jesus cultivates a faith that is small but curious.-1. Nicodemus' Prolonged Confusion-2. Jesus' Enduring Confidence-3. Our Current Condition
Suffering believers who are disabled precious and valuable treasures in disposable containers, to show God's power. -1. Notice God's power - seen in the church's experts in living with personal powerlessness, without despair. -v.7--2. Notice God's power - seen in suffering believers being physically squeezed, but not spiritually mis-shapen. -v.8-9--3. Notice God's power - in the form of 'the life of Jesus' at work in us, when we observe the 'death of Jesus' in the body of the suffering believer. -v.10-11--Applying- What if your value system needed a Biblical adjustment--What is precious and valuable- Colossians 2-3-Which things are worthless, which have value- 2 Timothy 2-20-In comparing life and death, what do we learn- Rom. 6-11
The discussion with Nicodemus shows us a concrete example of how Jesus cultivates a faith that is small but curious.-1. Your Proximity to the Kingdom-2. Your Access to the Kingdom-3. Your Relation to the Kingdom
Christ has given the permanent gift of the office of deacon to His people.-1. When deacons are absent. -v.1-2--2. When deacons are selected. -v.3-5- -3. When deacons are present. -v. 6-15- -Applying- How does it impact us that there are deacons here--What is modeled for us in our deacons- Matthew 9-35-In this broken world, who can we respect- 1 Timothy 3-8-What of yours is protected by your deacons- Acts 6-4
The discussion with Nicodemus shows us a concrete example of how Jesus cultivates a faith that is small but curious.-1. What should I know about Nicodemus--2. What should I know about this discussion--3. How does this relate to me-
The way of life is to acknowledge our sins and our need for judgment, and surrender to Christ, who had God's wrath poured out on Him on the cross. By dying to sin, we live. -1. Judgment is coming. -v.1-7--2. Surrendering is the only way to survive. -v.8--3. God reversed, and now fought against the dynasty of David- -v.9-14--Applying- What is the only way to life--How can we sinners have hope of living- 1 Peter 2-24.-As sinners, how can we approach the holy God- Luke 18-13-What happens to God's promises to David- Rev. 22-16
From the belief of the people at the Passover Feast, we learn that faith begins small, but will grow to closeness with Jesus as its object.-1. The Peoples' Faith-2. Jesus' Lack of Faith-3. What is in Man
We deepen our awareness that we are children of God who are called to suffer, followed by glory.-1. We know that our calling to suffer is our calling to pray. -v.1-7--2. We accept that sometimes we suffer for God's sake. -v.8-11--3. We keep praising God, during our suffering. -v.12-14--4. We remember that our suffering does not define us. -v.15-18--Applying- What amount or type of suffering did you expect--Who schemed for Christ's downfall- Mark 3-2.-How do people respond to sound teaching- 2 Tim 4-3-4. -What defines us- Ephesians 1-4 and 2-10.
When Jesus turns water into wine He reveals His glory and He prepares His followers for His intentions in His future ministry.-1. Signs in the Gospel of John-2. The Setting of This Sign-3. The Meaning of This Sign
How we view people affects how we treat people.-1. We must not view people with disabilities the way that the world-flesh does. -v.14-16a--a- Storybook view- the world is whole and the disability is broken.-b- Confused view- the world is whole and the disability is whole.-2. We must not view Christ the way the world-flesh does. -v.16b--3. The Biblical view of disabilities- the world is broken and the disability is broken, but Christ redeems. -v.17--Applying- how you see it, informs what you do about it.-What does it mean to show favoritism- James 2-1-Who should associate with people in low position- Romans 12-16-How is the faith of a person who is not willing to help- James 2-16
The summons to discipleship goes to the trusting and to the suspicious alike, as displayed in the call to Philip and Nathanael.-1. The Call of Philip -2. The Call of Nathanael-3. The Declaration of Jesus
Jeremiah's actions anticipated God's wrath and His call for sinners to repent.-1. Buy a finished pottery jar, and gather the people at the pile of broken pottery. -v. 1-2--2. Warn the people that God threatens to empty them, because of their idolatry. -v. 3-9--3. Smash the jar, anticipating how God will break the people, not to be mended. -v. 10-15--Applying- what is our view of the wrath of God--What is the condition of man- Eph. 2-3-5, 2 Cor. 4-7-When does the old get taken away- 2 Cor. 5-17-Who are vessels of wrath and mercy- Rom. 9-21-23
Anyone can get close to God the same way - by faith.-1. From any nation, class, or gender - by faith. -v.24-26--2. From any religious or non-religious background - by faith. -v.27--3. From any life situation or predicament - by faith. -v.28 - 30--Applying- which people are assumed to be walking close to God--How does Jesus deal with racial hatred- Rom. 1-16-What background is good enough- Matt. 5-3,6-When is anyone invited to seek God- Heb.11-6
Our true source of contamination is our corrupt hearts leading to our corrupt lives- our true source of cleansing is Jesus, who gives us new hearts and new obedience.-1. We must understand the source of defilement. -v.14-15--2. All leaders must understand this. -v.17 - 19--3. We must understand the vices that reside within every person. -v.20 - 23--Applying- Why do so many focus on the outside, instead of the inside--What is the true source of dirty lives- Rom. 14-14-23-Who says our hearts are the center of our being- Prov. 4-23-What is inside of you- Do you see it- 1 Sam. 16-7, Ps. 139-23-24
There are only two kinds of hearts- sadly stunted or abundantly flourishing.-1. Change of heart- from stone to flesh. The heart-sins of idolatry and self-trusting defile everything, while true heart-obedience and fruitfulness in everything during times of crisis is only possible by trusting THE LORD. -v.1-13--2. The heart of a leader. Jeremiah was impacted by his own message. He faithfully shepherded the people and they persecuted him. -v.14-18--3. A heart test. God's gift of a day of rest is an abiding command that reliably indicates our spiritual health. -v.19-27--Applying- why is there no third option- -only two kinds of hearts--How is your heart like a tablet or a tree- 2 Cor. 3-3 and Ps.1-1-6-Why are there only true-false prophets, no mixtures- 2 Peter 3-1-9-Is there rest for Sabbath-breakers who repent- Hebrews 4-9
The cure for loneliness is Christ and His church.-1. Jeremiah -took up his cross- of loneliness to embody God's withdrawal from that generation. -v.1-12--2. God would judge sin with captivity, and yet He promised rescue from exile in a new and better 'exodus.' -v.13-18--3. God revealed a- His power vs. false gods, and b- His name to those coming home. -v.19-21--Applying- How can we hear both judgment and hope--What was the cross that Jeremiah must bear- Mt. 16-24-Exodus repeats. Dt. 28-36, Mk. 1-2-3 Lk 9-31 Eph. 4-8-When will everyone gather again- Revelation 19-9
When God's people are under cruel attack, we pray for an act of God.-1. Prayer for God's action. -v.1- 5--2. Prayer for God's justice. -v.6 - 20--3. Prayer for God's help. -v.21 - 31--Applying- How can we deal with the violence in our world--Why should all Christians leave justice to God- Rom. 12-19-How can we maintain peace of heart always- Phil. 4-6-7, 12-Where does all this get resolved- Mt. 27-39 1 Cor. 4-12
It is our privilege to show the kindness of God to people with disabilities.-1. The kindness of God was shown to the household of King Saul, David's fiercest enemy, now fallen, and even to a person who was disabled. -v.1-5--2. Kindness was shown in order to fulfill a promise to David's best friend. -v.6-8--3. Kindness was shown to a man with a disability, restoring his honor, providing his daily needs, and absorbing the inherent risk of Mephibosheth -or his son Mica, or servant Ziba- becoming another Saul-threat. -v.9-13--Applying- who receives your kind actions--When will you care for the least- Matthew 25-31-46 -How does Jesus call us to behave- John 13-34-35-Who might be afraid of you- could you change that- 1 John 4-18
All of us want to present ourselves the best we can to God- ironically, it is those very self-cleaning actions of ours that most threaten to prevent us from embracing the good news that we are cleansed by God. God even cleanses us from our self-cleaning actions, which actually had soiled us further.-1. Cleansed from the dirty game of comparing self to others. -v.1-5--2. Cleansed from the perverted habit of faking religion. -v.6-8--3. Cleansed from the blackened life of obeying man over obeying God. -v.9-13--Applying- What is the only cleanser that gets out the stain of sin--What happens to the faithful- -to the proud- Psalm 31-23-Who does God protect- who does God destroy- Prov. 15-25-When will God end the pomp of the prideful- Is. 13-11 Luke 14-11
In a spiritual breakthrough, Jeremiah learned the value of starting over.-1. While God had not turned from His covenant, He would not turn from punishing this generation with exile. -v.1-9--2. Jeremiah struggled with his calling to continue speaking judgment. -v.10 -18--3. God spoke to Jeremiah about starting over - turning to God, but not turning to the people. God promised to be with, save, deliver, and redeem Jeremiah. -v.19-21--Applying- what is truly mandatory for sinning people to do--Who can change someone else's stubborn heart- Rom. 5-10-11-Why was the wound incurable- Eph. 2-13 -How will we escape judgment- 1 Thess 1-10
The ministry of Jesus is introduced by John the Baptist bearing his self-denying testimony about the majesty and supremacy of Christ.-1. John's Ministry Diminished-2. Jesus' Ministry Expanded-What is required of us--How can we be diminished for the cause of Christ--What are two benefits of being Jesus' disciple--How do you go about discipling others-
The ministry of Jesus is introduced by John the Baptist bearing his self-denying testimony about the majesty and supremacy of Christ.-1. John's Announcement-2. John's Testimony
Because Christ came, we have harmony with God.-1. Christ is above all. -v.15-18- -2. Christ reconciled all things to Himself. -v.19-20--3. Christ, in His body, brought us harmony. -v.21-23--Applying- Why is there so much fighting and discord in the world--Who subjected Himself to Whom- 1 Corinthians 15-28-As people who used to fight, what is our gain- Galatians 4-9-How did God reconcile us- 2 Corinthians 5-21
The ministry of Jesus is introduced by John the Baptist bearing his self-denying testimony about the majesty and supremacy of Christ.-1. John's Opposition-2. John's Confession-3. John's Location
We celebrate Christmas, because of God's mercy.-1. Christ came. -2. Christ came into the world. -3. Christ came into the world to save sinners.-Applying- Planning is good and wise, but what attitude turns planning bad--If presumptive planning gains riches, what is forfeited- Mt. 16-26-What was the planning error of the rich fool- Luke 12-13-21-What should Christians live by and plan by- Deut. 8-3, Mt. 4-4
God sends the curses of the covenant down on breakers of the covenant, and yet God never breaks His covenant promise to give us life.-1. Judgment- no water -v.1-6--2. Judgment- no acceptance of prayers- -v.7-14--3. Judgment- no truth in preaching- -v.15-19--4. Then life- covenant breakers learn to pray for blessing anyway, setting their hope on The Covenant Keeper. -v.20-22---Applying- What happens to breakers of God's covenant--How is creation impacted by sin- Deut. 11-16-17, Rom. 8-22-What must we do to be close to God- James 4-8, 1 John 4-1 and 5-6-What follows suffering- Mt. 16-21 and Acts 26-23
Jesus changes our thinking about church. Rather than an earthly-strategy of invitations based on return-on-investment, Jesus asks us to apply heavenly wisdom based on resurrection-mindedness, and strategically invest in ministry to people with disabilities. --1. Our ministry to people with disabilities will be repaid in heaven. This is not the same greed with a smarter more spiritual formula, but rather this is doing ministry as Jesus asked us to do it, and enjoying the fact that He rewards it. -v.12-14----2. Persistent ministry to those with able bodies but heart-excuses is not a good investment, since they are exposed as not truly seeking God. -v.15-20----3. God is so committed to His house of worship being filled, that those with disabilities, who may assume that they are not invited, are to be not merely invited, but a special effort is to be made to pursue them and convince them that both God and His church genuine desire them to come. -v.21-24-----Why does Jesus want our thinking to be changed--1. What does a heavenly mindset gain for us- Colossians 3-1-4-2. Why is it not enough to verbally praise God- Matthew 7-21-3. Who reigns in church- who can compel others- Mt. 14-22
Jesus the God-Man is proclaimed by John the Baptist as superior because of his person and position to make the Father known.-1. Pre-existence and Pre-eminence-2. Grace and Truth
Jeremiah prophesied how Christ would redeem you from these five images of how pride makes you useless.-1. -like a favorite piece of clothing now repulsively ruined - no longer close to God- -v.1-11--2. -like a wrongly filled bottle - designed to be filled with God's Spirit, but filled with something else. -v.12-14--3. -like turning off the light - no longer listening to God's Word. -v.15-17--4. -like the heartbreaking fall of a mighty leader - a needlessly sad failure to humble oneself- -v.18-19--5. -like being the last to know - your disgrace, loss, and uncleanness were obvious to God - others before you became aware and entered mourning in bitterness and shame. -v.20-27- -Applying- Why is pride such a dangerous flaw--1. How does pride make us useless to worship- Eph. 1-12-2. Once we have pride, what comes next- Prov. 16-18, Heb. 12-10-3. Who was lamenting for whom in 2 Samuel 1-25, 27-
We worry for nothing. No matter what happens, we have help in Christ.-1. We take comfort in God. -v.1-6--2. We praise God for His protection. -v.7-9--3. We rejoice that God gets the glory He deserves. -v.10-11--Applying- Into what tower do you run--1. Proverbs 18-10-11. In what ways are you hoping for money to solve your problem, instead of God- Compare to Matthew 11-28-30-2. Isaiah 28-16. What does it mean that the stone God set is a tested one- -Think of the cross.- How often will you be let down--3. Psalm 93-4. How mighty is God compared to hurricanes- What will happen to you at the end of time- See Luke 21-25-27, and verse 34.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan is a rebuke and correction to those who think they are self-justifiable.-1. The Setting of the Parable-2. The Elements of the Parable-3. The Meaning of the Parable
The incarnation of the Son of God tells us that Jesus can entirely, perfectly, and permanently sympathize with humanity as our Mediator.-1. Incarnation of the Son-2. Dwelling of the Son-3. Glory of the Son -Applying- What is required of us--What is one thing from this sermon that you did not know before--How does the incarnation communicate God's care for you--How is Jesus -full of grace and truth--
When Jeremiah fell into discouragement watching the triumph of evil, God helped him by providing perspective.-1. God rebuked Jeremiah with the perspective that there is worse suffering. -v.1-6--2. God re-oriented Jeremiah with the perspective of a bigger lament - that God watched the triumph of evil in His own beloved people, and that God would need to abandon His people, in order to reorient and heal them. -v.7-13--3. God re-assured Jeremiah with the perspective that God would uproot and re-establish nations, in order to re-assure His people with a long-term view, and invite all nations to worship Him. -v.14-17--Applying- Where do we see God's character in this passage--How do we explain that the wicked are prospering- Psalm 73-1-28-Why do we think we know better than God- Job 38-2-3-Who should question whom- Romans 9-20
In Christ, we are called to suffer redemptively, learning to rejoice.-1. Refining our character. 1 Tim. 1-15-20 and Heb. 12-15-2. Re-interpreting our affliction by ascribing positive meaning. Rom. 8-17 -3. Re-focusing on the gospel. Mark 1-29-39-Applying- To what are we called as sufferers and co-sufferers -caregivers---How does God use disability to grow us spiritually- 1 Peter 1-15-16-What interpretation of my disability is wrong-correct- Mt. 7-13-14-Where is the focus of Christ, and so church-me-us- Rev. 22-20
Because of Christ, we covenant breakers can still pray to God and be heard.-1. A review of the covenant. -v.1-13--2. Consequence of covenant breaking - prayers forbidden. -v.14-17- -3. Consequence of covenant keeping - prayers received. -v.18-22- -Applying- What standing does the covenant have for Christians--How does one confirm the words of the covenant- Deut.27-26-Is the covenant conditional or unconditional- Exodus 19-5-6.-Who has a right to dwell with God- Psalm 15-1-5, Gal 3-10
Johannes Oecolampadius advanced the cause of Christ in the Reformation with his unswerving desire that the truth of God's word to be known and loved.-1. Light Sent Out-2. Truth Sent Out-3. Praise to God-Applying- What is required of us--What are two things that you learned about Oecolampadius--How can you be a student of the Word of God--What about Oecolampadius encourages you to a holy life-
Christ teaches us to sing while waiting for Him.-1. In faith, we sing. -v.1-6--2. In peace, we sing. -v.7-13- -3. In hope, we sing. -v.14-21- -Applying- How do Christians walk through this world--What guards our hearts and minds- Philippians 4-7-Where is our focus- Matthew 6-33, Heb. 12-1-2.-For what is God waiting- Rom. 2-4
The God of The Reformation is revealed as the one true and living God.-1. The foolishness of idolatry. -v.1-16-. -2. The consequences of idolatry. -v.17-22-. -3. The prayer for reformation. -v.23-25--Applying- What is the origin of any correction or reformation--Why is idolatry so very silly- Psalm 115-4-8-Why is idolatry so very damaging- Jonah 2-8-9-How should we be praying for ourselves- 1 Peter 4-17
The appearance of Jesus demonstrates the climactic revelation of God's goodness and kindness.-1. God's Goodness-2. God's Loving-Kindness-3. God's Appearance
John the Baptist made preparations for Jesus to illumine the world, and we who receive that light have been adopted as God's children.-1. John the Baptist sent to the world-2. The true light coming into the world-3. The response of the people of world-Applying- What is required of us--What is the difference between witnessing about Christ and just talking about Christianity--What tempts us to avoid bearing witness about Christ--What should we be talking about when witnessing about Christ--How can we become less scared to witness about Christ-
God instructs the wise what to do when both church and society break down.-1. The wise are able to explain the ruin. -v.12-16-. -2. The wise respond to large quantities of the dead with proper grieving. -v.17-22-. -3. The wise recognize proper and improper boasting. -v.23-26--Applying- Why is there sorrow in places of devastation--How consistently is death the wages of sin- Romans 6-23-Why would societies have professional mourners- Matthew 9-23-In what way can Christians boast- 1 Cor. 1-18-31 2 Cor 10-17
The purpose of the Gospel of John is to present the Lord Jesus as the Christ, so that every vestige of our unbelief in him as such would be permanently eradicated.-1. Basics of the Gospel of John-2. Expectations of the Gospel of John-3. Demands of the Gospel of John
Jeremiah experienced a crushing grief over the damage of deceit in the people.-1. Jeremiah grieved that no help could be found for the people's deceit, idolatry and pain. -8-18 -22-. -2. Jeremiah could not stop grieving, because they heaped deceit upon deceit. -9-1-6-.-3. God Himself joined Jeremiah in grieving at the widespread damage of their deceitful speaking. -9-7-11-.-Applying- What harm is caused by lying--What is duplicity and why is it dangerous- Psalm 55-20-21-Why more hurt when a brother deceives- Genesis 27-36-Who else weeps when foretelling the destruction- Luke 21-5-24
People need Jesus, and serving them is why He came. -1. The need is great. -v.53-55--2. Anyone can be brought to Jesus anywhere, anytime. -v.56a--3. Jesus blesses those who believe in Him. -v.56b--Applying- Who is it that needs the Lord--Who says that sick people can seek Jesus- Mark 3-3 and 10-14-What happened to the sick woman brought to Jesus- Mark 5-25-34-Why tassels on the garment of Jesus- Num. 15-37-41 Dt. 22-12
After God comforts us with His sovereignty, we know that we all fit in the church, even with our disabilities and weaknesses.-1. Our disabilities can cause the painful and wrong conclusion- we cannot serve God. -v.10-. -2. God comforts us by revealing that He sovereignly created our disabilities. -v.11-.-3. God comforts us by His presence and power. -v.12-.-Applying- why all this pain and discomfort--Who causes our grief, and who has compassion on us- Lam 3-32-How many Creators are there- Isaiah 45-5-9, John 1-3-Which things give God glory- Romans 11-36
The Christian's conduct should reflect something of the character of God, and therefore should contrast something of the society we live in.-1. The Reminder of Our Conduct-2. The Reason for Our Conduct
Christ digs beneath our stubbornness, and shows us the lies we are believing -unknowingly, which is being deceived-.-1. A stubborn and meandering bent is standing against The LORD Himself -v.4-7-. -2. A stubborn and defiant heart is rejecting the Word of The LORD. -v.8-12-.-3. A stubborn and fractured sinner is declining to gather for a time of healing. -v.13-17-.-Applying- How could we better understand the danger of deceit--What is the opposite of stubbornness- Phil 4-5 Is.53-6-When a king rejects God's Word, what happens- 1 Samuel 15-23-Compare to the words of Jesus in this verse. Matthew 23-3
The blessedness of God is eternally enjoyed by himself, and he is delighted to have us share in it.-1. What is God's Blessedness--2. What does that mean for God--3. What does that mean for me-
This voyage of the disciples is a picture of the church, also called to brave our storms by trusting Jesus.-1. Our voyage. -2. Our Savior-3. Our hearts-Applying- In the storms of life, what should believers do--What do we know about the power of Christ- 2 Peter 1-16-How did the disciples know about Jesus- 1 John 1-1-What do we consider impossible- Luke 1-37
The standard of all goodness is God himself, and so his goodness is what he reveals and gives to us.-1. What is God's Goodness--2. What does that mean for God--3. What does that mean for me-
Horrible sins appropriately receive horrible punishment from God, driving us to consider what Christ experienced on the cross, leaving us thankful.-1. Horrible, detestable sins done in God's house. -7-30-31--2. God's response changed even the name of the valley. -7-32-34--3. Horrible, ironic punishment prefigures hell itself. -8-1-3--Applying- Why is it spiritually healthy to study the awful judgment of God--How do we hear the words 'depart from Me'- Matthew 7-23-Who is the Judge, and how should we fear Him- 2 Cor. 5-10-What is a blessing that we take for granted- Ps.79-3 Rom. 1-22-23
Because God is spirit he is unlimited, and that allows us freedom to enjoy his unlimited care for us, for his glory and our good.-1. What is God's Spirituality--2. What does that mean for God--3. What does that mean for me-
Our wonderful God gives us instructions for how to live in a place where truth has perished.-1. Why was Jeremiah told not to pray for the people- -v.16-20--2. What should we do when the people won't repent- -v.21-26--3. How do we live here, after truth has perished all around us- -v.27-29--Applying- How shall we now live, given our current situation--Prophets pray for sinners. Ex. 32-30-32 1 Chron.21-16-17, Ez. 9-6-Who prays for us without ever stopping- Hebrews 7-24-25-How should we pray for unrepentant sinners- 1 John 5-16-17
God gives us twin graces- grace to be saved, and grace to be holy. -1. The church is not our safe house from God's wrath. -v.1-4--2. Church-going, without holy living, makes you a fake. -v.5-11--3. Let the ruins of Shiloh be a warning to you. -v.12-15--Applying- What must we understand about God's Temple--Where does God dwell- 1 Corinthians 3-16-What did Jesus say about the abuse of the temple- Luke 19-45-48-When could God forsake religious centers- Psalm 78-56-61
Christ is our Good Shepherd who cares for all of our needs.-1. In wisdom, Christ provided rest for His apostles. -v.30-32--2. In compassion, Christ cared for the shepherdless. -v.33-34--3. In power, Christ fed His sheep. -v.35-44--Applying- What does a shepherd do for the sheep--Why did Jesus give rest to the apostles- Mt 11-28-30, Rev. 7-17-Who has compassion on sheep of Israel- Ezekiel 34-23, John 10-11-What color was the grass- Significance- Mark 6-39, Ps 23-2
By God's grace, the true people of God will never become worthless silver. -1. Never scorn the Word of The LORD. -v.1-15--2. Develop a taste for God's good old paths. -v.16-26--3. Receive God's refining. -v.27-30--Applying- What must we do to walk with God--Where can we find rest for our souls- Matthew 11-28-29-How can we develop a taste for the ancient path- Luke 5-39-What is the measure of your integrity- Joshua 24-14-15
Since Christ has saved us and is bringing us through this world, we need Him more than we need food.-1. We seek more of the Christ whom we already have.-2. Our progress does not depend on ourselves.-3. We remind ourselves that Christ is the life-giver, and that food is a gift from Him.-Applying- What is our relationship to food--When are we reminded that food is a good gift- 1 Tim. 4-3-5-How do we view gifts from God- James 1-17-How are fasting and eating both done to the Lord- Rom. 14-6
God's omniscience motivates us to know him better, since he already knows us entirely and still loves us.-1. How does God know--2. What does God know-
God is absolutely independent, and so we are to be amazed and thankful of his care for us.-1. Pure Independence-2. Primal Independence-3. Praiseworthy Independence
God commanded Jeremiah to begin searching for one good person, and the results illustrate a vital lesson. -1. Who is righteous- -v.1-19--2. Who is understanding- -v.20-25--3. Who is great- -v.26-31--Applying- Where should we look to find a good person--Who loves the Lord with all his heart- Deuteronomy 6-4-5-How many people are righteous- Ps.14-1-3- 53-1-3, Rom. 3-10-12-What will the unrighteous do toward the end- 2 Timothy 4-3-4
To see Jesus for who He is, means we factor in eternity, and we conclude that the deeper tragedy is not the death of John the Baptist, but rather the death of the conscience of Herod.-1. The backstory tragedy started when a stirred conscience delayed to take proper action. -v.17-20--2. The consequent tragedy when one harbored sin gave way to a new crisis of conscience, to deep grief, and then to further sins, previously unthinkable, and a life of sin-enslavement. -v.21-29--3. The incredible mercy of Jesus. Yet even now, after the needless tragedies and extra layers of sins, there is still mercy to be found for those who respond to Jesus, who is still calling out to their consciences- -v.14-16--Applying- What is your conscience saying to you- Are you listening--When is the time to respond to God's call- 2 Corinthians 6-2-How can our consciences be purified- Hebrews 9-14-What damage can come to your conscience- 1 Timothy 4-2
What prompts a healthy fear is imagining the wrath of God to come on those who will not repent and turn to Christ. -1. A healthy fear leads to returning to God. -v.1-4--2. A healthy fear leads to washing your heart. -v.5-18--3. A healthy fear leads to thankfulness for God's mercy. -v.19-31--Applying- What is the result of turning back to God--To follow Christ, what is required- Luke 9-23-24-How can we be washed- Matthew 26-36-39-Why will God bring judgment- Acts 7-51-52
Abraham was the prototype of the Christian life, and so we are to resemble him as such accordingly.-1. Abraham in the Book of Hebrews-2. What we Can Learn from Abraham
In Abraham's marriage to Keturah, the giving of the inheritance, and in his death, we are provoked to preparation of our covenant children, our death, and our resurrection.-1. Abraham's Wife-2. Abraham's Inheritance-3. Abraham's Death-What is required of us--How should we regard and prepare our covenant children--What prepares the Christian for the day of their death--How would you say to an unbeliever that death is not the end-
When Abraham sends his servant for Isaac's bride, he displays trust in the success of God's promise, and willingness to transfer covenantal responsibility to Isaac.-1. Abraham's Oath-2. The Servant's Success-3. Isaac's wife
God pleads with sinners to turn back to Him through Christ Jesus. -1. Genuine turning. -v.1-10--2. Acknowledging guilt. -v.11-18--3. Heeding God's call to turn. -v.19-25--Applying- What direction are you heading--Where should repentance be preached- Luke 24-47-What was one punishment for idolatry- Deuteronomy 11-16,17-How are we finally able to repent- Galatians 4-6
The church is a result of Jesus calling, equipping, and uniting his people to the work of ministry, and it occasionally assembles in order to facilitate this work.-A Called People-A Furnished Host-A Unified Body
When Abraham buries Sarah, he demonstrates confidence toward his audience that the promises of God will come upon his progeny.-1. Sarah's Death-2. Ephron's Barter-3. Abraham's Property-Applying- What is required of us--How are we receiving God's promises now--What can we give up now knowing that we will receive more later-
The announcement of Nahor's family revisits and further materializes God's covenant to Abraham.-1. How this fits in--2. What this teaches us--3. What this calls us to-
God showed how the people of Judah used to trust in God. -1. Turning away from God toward worthless idols. -v.1-19--2. Becoming fascinated by other gods. -v.20-28--3. Refusing to acknowledge their guilt. -v.29-37--Applying- what did the people do wrong--What happens when we lose our first love- Revelation 2-4-5-How does false thinking lead to idolatry- Proverbs 30-20-When is there a pattern of denying sins- 1 Thessalonians 2-14-16
The Bible teaches that Abraham was justified by faith alone, and that this faith was tested in offering his son on the altar..-1. Abraham justified according to James--2. Abraham justified according to Paul--3. How this is not a contradiction-
God called Jeremiah to stand firm in the middle of a crumbling culture. -1. God's spokesman, appointed by God. -v.4-10--2. God's message, illustrated by God. -v.11-16--3. God's prophet, accompanied by God. -v.17-19--Applying- Why did Jeremiah need not fear--What is the reason to be courageous- Deuteronomy 31-6-8-When does God's Word accomplish God's goal- Isaiah 55-10-11-How can we stand against our enemies- Ephesians 6-10-11
Since we are on a mission for Jesus, we share in what He is doing.-1. We represent Jesus to opponents and to supporters. -v.6b-7--2. We rely on Jesus as we do His work unhindered. -v.8-11--3. We focus on Jesus' message to repent and live for Him. -v.12-13--Applying- Who sends Christians out on missionary work--How should we respond when we are rejected- 2 Corinthians 4-1-6-What is our response to ministry of the Word- Hebrews 10-24-25-How people respond to us shows what- Matthew 25-40,45
The father and background of Jeremiah help us understand his words.-1. The father and family from which Jeremiah came. -v.1--2. The government under which Jeremiah lived. -v.2--3. The tragedy Jeremiah witnessed. -v.3--Applying-What is our understanding of the origins of Jeremiah--From where do prophets come- Deuteronomy 18-15,18-Who best fulfilled the prophecy- Acts 3-18-23-How great is our need for Jesus- John 15-5
In our grief, Jesus cares for us.-1. Jesus knows all about our sorrows. -v.11-12--2. Jesus has a heart of compassion of us. -v.13--3. Jesus has great power to care for us and to accomplish His purpose- -v.14-17--Applying- What is expected of us--How does Jesus know our sorrows- Isaiah 53-3-When Jesus views us in our pain, what is His response- Mt 9-36-What sort of care does God provide for us- Isaiah 40-11
Because Jesus rose again, we are personally and permanently bonded to each other. -1. We possess a bond of love that is comprehensive. -v.12-16--2. We benefit from refreshing relationships of joy and holiness between persons and churches. -v.17-20--3. Maintaining healthy community connections is one of our core values- so we insist on it, we protect it, and we restore it. -v.21-24--Applying- What atmosphere has been generated by Christ's resurrection--From where did this bond of love originate- Deuteronomy 7-12-13-How do we know it is reciprocal- Proverbs 11-25-Who is willing to work at bonding- Ephesians 4-3
God places Christians into special situations, in order to testify there too.-1. Testify by fulfilling duty to God and to the law. -v.1-5--2. Testify about the resurrection and expose others by their reaction to it. -v.6-10--3. As long as we live, we live to testify another day, in another situation. -v.11--Applying- What is expected of us--How is our duty to God to be fulfilled- Matthew 5-17-20-What issue gets to the heart of the matter- 1 Corinthians 15-12-15-When did Paul get to retire and take it easy- 2 Timothy 1-7-9
Since Jesus rose again, there is a permanent impact on our Christian community. -1. We share what we have for needs and for kingdom advance. -v.1-4--2. We are friends sharing life. -v.5-9--3. We welcome everyone, across all dividing lines. -v.10-11--Applying- What difference does the resurrection make for us this week--How does God expect us to give- Rom. 15-25-32-What do our travels have to do with our relationships- 1 Cor. 4-19-How important is our treatment of people- 1 Peter 2-17
The Binding of Isaac is a clear picture showing us that the people of God always needed a substitute for them.-1. What Substitutionary Atonement is-2. Substitutionary Atonement with Abraham-3. Substitutionary Atonement with Us
God always provides for the needs of his people, as is the case-with Abraham in the story of the Binding of Isaac.-1. What Providence Is-2. Providence Toward Abraham-3. Providence Toward Us-Applying- what is required of us--How has God provided for you--How have you overlooked God's providence toward you--How will you appreciate God's providence toward you-
In the story of the Binding of Isaac, God shows us the basics of how he is ordinarily to be worshipped.-1. What worship is--2. How we get this from Genesis 22--3. How this informs our worship today-