Bethany Christian Church Podcasts

Questions for further discussion/study: -List/discuss some of the difficulties and blessings of the past days, weeks, and/or months. -List/discuss some of the ways God speaks to you. List/discuss some of the ways God speaks through you.

Communion Scripture: -Philippians 2:1-4

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Theme Scripture -Philippians 1:6, 9-11

Questions for further discussion/study: -Jot down the name of someone you’ve seen good spiritual growth this past year. -Write out Philippians 1:6. Place your written copy somewhere you will be reminded of God’s continuing work often.

Communion Scripture: -Revelation 5:9-13

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Theme Scriptures -Luke 4:16-21 -Isaiah 61:1-3 -Matthew 19:30 -Mark 10:43-45 -Luke 9:23-24

Questions for further discussion/study: -List/discuss the aspects of the stable that make it an odd place for a king to be born. -List/discuss at least one of your favorite moments in the life of Jesus. -List/discuss who Isaiah and Jesus say will be a part of His Kingdom. -What does it look like to live in Jesus’s right-side-up kingdom? What should we do? How should we talk? How should we treat others?

Communion Scripture: -Philippians 2:6-11

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Songs in today’s worship: All rights reserved. Used by permission. CCLI Streaming License # CSPL060355 -O Come, O Come Emmanuel CCLI Song # 31982 John Mason Neale | Thomas Helmore | © Words & Music: Public Domain -Your Grace is Enough CCLI Song # 4477026 Matt Maher | © 2003 spiritandsong.com | Thankyou Music -Everlasting God Brenton Brown | Ken Riley | © 2005 Thankyou Music

Theme Scriptures Isaiah 40

Questions for further discussion/study: -What do you have to wait for? What make it worth the wait? -What questions would you have for God if everything you know is taken away? -Read/re-read Isaiah 40. List/discuss some aspects of the good news Isaiah relays to God’s people.

Communion Scripture: -1 Peter 2:22-24

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-O Come, O Come Emmanuel CCLI Song # 31982 John Mason Neale | Thomas Helmore | © Words & Music: Public Domain

Theme Scriptures -Isaiah 11-12 -Matthew 3:16

Questions for further discussion/study: -Read/re-read Isaiah 11:1-5. List/discuss the characteristics of the king described there. -Read/re-read Isaiah 11:6-16. List/discuss the characteristics of the kingdom described there. -Read/re-read Isaiah 12:1-6. List/discuss the reasons to praise the Creator of the coming king and kingdom.

Communion Scripture: -Matthew 26:26-29

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Songs in today's worship: All rights reserved. Used by permission. CCLI Streaming License # CSPL060355 -What Child is This CCLI Song # 30983 William C. Dix | Traditional English Melody | Arr. © 2006 New Spring (a div. of Zomba Enterprises, Inc.) -What a Beautiful Name CCLI Song # 7068424 Ben Fielding | Brooke Ligertwood | © 2016 Hillsong Music -Jesus, Name Above All Names Naida Hearn | © 1974, 1978 Universal Music - Brentwood Benson

Theme Scriptures -Isaiah 9:6

Questions for further discussion/study: -When you read/hear these four names for the Messiah, what comes to mind?

Communion Scripture: -Isaiah 53

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Songs in today’s worship: All rights reserved. Used by permission. CCLI Streaming License # CSPL060355 Song title(s) -My Jesus I Love Thee CCLI Song # 27817 Adoniram Judson Gordon | William Ralph Featherstone © Public Domain -Do It Again CCLI Song # 7067555 Chris Brown | Mack Brock | Matt Redman | Steven Furtick © Said And Done Music | sixsteps Music | Thankyou Music | worshiptogether.com songs | Music by Elevation Worship PublishingTheme Scripture: -Isaiah 7-35 -Isaiah 35:4 -Isaiah 32:1 -Isaiah 29:5b-6 Questions/guides for further discussion/study/prayer: -What are some common fears? What are you afraid of? -Write/draw/share what it is that helps point your spirit towards hope found in Christ. Communion Scripture: -1 Corinthians 11:23-26

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Questions/guides for further discussion/study/prayer - Write/draw what are you thankful for? If you are with others, share.

Communion Scripture: -Romans 8:31-32

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Songs in today’s worship:

My Jesus, I Love Thee CCLI Song # 27817 William R. Featherston | Adoniram Judson Gordon ©Public Domain

Theme Scriptures:

-Psalm 46:10-11

-Ecclesiastes 3:9-14

-Isaiah 40:31

-Philippians 4:4-9

-1 Samuel 13

Questions for further discussion/study:

Read Isaiah 40:25-31. What do these verses say about God?
Think about the creation. What are some of the amazing sites, systems, or resources that God has built into our world?
Thank God for who He is and the many ways He takes care of you every day.

Communion Scripture: Romans 5:6-11

Prayer Concerns:

-Those affected by COVID-19

-Racial tensions & unrest (justice, healing, peace)

-Fellow BCCAnderson family

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Theme Scriptures: -Luke 9:51-56 -Revelation 1 -Revelation 22

Questions for further discussion/study:

What is your “load of laundry?” What piled up this week, kept getting bigger, discouraged, or overwhelmed you?
How did you react or respond? What did you say or how did you talk when things began to pile up? If you reacted poorly, what could you have said to possibly change your attitude or outlook?
Read Philippians 2:14-16. What do these verses say we are to do – or not do – as we “hold out the word of life” (as we speak boldly)?
Take a few moments and pray thanking God that He is with us, that He is faithful, that He is good – even in the midst of your “load of laundry” / what you are enduring.

Communion Scripture: -1 Corinthians 10:16-17

Prayer Concerns: -Medical personnel -Governmental leaders -Missionaries -Those affected by COVID-19 -Fellow BCCAnderson family

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Songs in today’s worship:

Theme Scripture: 1 John 3:16-18

Questions for further discussion/study:

Is there a need that I can meet in my home / neighborhood / workplace / etc. and, in doing so, show the love of God?
How can I show love by serving joyfully in my home / neighborhood / workplace / etc.?

Communion Scripture: Philippians 2:3-11

Prayer Concerns:

-Medical personnel

-Governmental leaders

-Missionaries

-Those affected by COVID-19

-Fellow BCCAnderson family

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Songs in today’s worship:

Theme Scriptures: Colossians 1:3-4; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3; 2 Corinthians 8:1-7 (mistakenly listed as 1 Cor.); Philippians 4:14-20

Questions for further discussion/study:

What are some ways you have seen God’s goodness and provision over the past several weeks?
Not as a matter of pride or earning God’s favor, but can you identify some ways that you have been generous with your time, resources, words, or actions to encourage or help someone else over these past several weeks?
In trying to reflect the nature and character of God, can you identify someone who has be generous with you (time, attention, resources, words, or actions) and send them a note thanking them for what they have done and how God used them to bless you?

Communion Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

Prayer Concerns: -Medical personnel -Governmental leaders -Missionaries -Those affected by COVID-19 -Fellow BCCAnderson family

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Songs in today’s worship:

Blessed Assurance CCLI Song # 22324 Fanny Jane Crosby | Phoebe Palmer Knapp © Public Domain

Theme Scripture: Galatians 5:22-25

Questions for further discussion/study: 1. After reading through Galatians 5:22-25, which fruit(s) of the Spirit will you focus on this week? 2. Of the fruit(s) you want to focus on this week, how are you going to live out those (that) particular fruit(s) of the Spirit? 3. If watching with someone else, discuss ways in which you can help each other live out the fruit(s) chosen. 4. Think of someone close to you who exhibits one or more of these fruits of the Spirit. Send them a note or text thanking them for living that/those out.

Communion Scripture: 1 Peter 3:18-22

Prayer Concerns: -Medical personnel -Governmental leaders -Missionaries -Those affected by COVID-19 -Fellow BCCAnderson family

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Songs in today’s worship:

Theme Scripture: Colossians 1:1-8

Questions for further discussion/study:

Are there Biblical principles/areas you have wrestled/struggled with (like making time to read God’s Word) in the past few weeks? What are those principles/areas?
As we discuss spending time reading the Bible, if daily reading doesn’t always happen, how can you open yourself up to God’s Word?
If you do not currently take time to read God’s Word, how could you reschedule your days to allow that time?

Communion Scripture: Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12

Prayer Concerns: -Medical personnel -Governmental leaders -Missionaries -Those affected by COVID-19 -Fellow BCCAnderson family

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Songs in today’s worship:

Theme Scripture: Ephesians 1:15-19; 3:14-19; 6:19-20

Guides for further discussion/study/prayer: 1. Pick two people – in your family, on your list, someone you know – and pray for them using Paul’s example in 1:15-19. Give thanks for them and ask that they may come to know God better in the midst of whatever they are facing. If you are with others, can you voice those prayers together?

Pick two people – in your family, on your list, someone you know – and pray for them using Paul’s example in 3:14-19. Ask God to strengthen them with power through His Spirit so Christ may dwell in their hearts and pray that in the midst of whatever they are facing they will come to know the full extent – the width, length, height, depth of God’s love. If you are with others, can you voice those prayers together?

3.Pick two people you know who are working on the “front lines” whether in the medical field or in some other way. Pray for them using Paul’s example in 6:19-20. Pray that God will help them to do their job fearlessly, making known the goodness and grace of God to all those they come into contact with. If you are with others, can you voice those prayers together?

Communion Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Prayer Concerns: -Fellow BCCAnderson family -Medical personnel -Those affected by COVID-19 -Governmental leaders -Missionaries

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Songs in today’s worship:

Theme Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4

Questions for further discussion/study: 1. What are some things you have said or done that demonstrate that you are “done” or in need of a “halftime speech?” 2. What does the flashlight represent? How do you/we shine the light of God? 3. Did you find any encouragement from Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 4? If so, what encouragement did you find? 4. What are some ways that you can show or speak encouragement to those around you?

Communion Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3

Prayer Concerns -Fellow BCCAnderson family -Medical personnel -Those affected by COVID-19 -Governmental leaders -Missionaries

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Songs in today’s worship:

Theme Scriptures: Luke 24:1-12; John 16:33; Psalm 23

Questions for further discussion/study: 1. List some of the troubles Jesus faced in His life. What were some ways He loved people even during times of trouble? 2. Does the resurrection matter to you today? If so, why? 3. What are some ways that I/we can love each other during times of trouble?

Communion Scripture: Luke 22:14-18

Prayer Concerns -Medical personnel -Families affected by COVID-19 -Governmental leaders -Teachers and students -Those financially affected by COVID-19

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Songs in today’s worship: Hosanna (Praise is Rising) CCLI Song # 4662491 Brenton Brown | Paul Baloche © 2005, 2006 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music | Thankyou Music Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) CCLI Song # 4768151 Chris Tomlin | John Newton | Louie Giglio © 2006 worshiptogether.com songs | sixsteps Music | Vamos Publishing

Theme Scripture: Luke 19:28-40

Questions for further discussion/study: 1. In verse 38, Jesus is called “King.” What other names, words, or titles is Jesus given in Luke 19:28-40? 2. In Luke 19:39 the Pharisees tell Jesus to make the crowds stop saying that He is king. How does Jesus answer them? What do you think that means? What should we say about Jesus? 3. In what way can I/we be a light to people around us while we wait? How can I/we love the people next to us?

Communion Scripture: Matthew 26:26-29

Prayer Concerns: -Medical Personnel -Those affected by COVID-19 -Teachers and Students -Parents of Children at home

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Songs in today’s worship: Blessed Be Your Name CCLI Song # 3798438 Beth Redman | Matt Redman © 2002 Thankyou Music Cornerstone CCLI Song # 6158927 Edward Mote | Eric Liljero | Jonas Myrin | Reuben Morgan | William Batchelder Bradbury © 2011 Hillsong Music Publishing Australia

Theme Scripture: Acts 21:17-20

Questions for further discussion/study: 1. List or name examples from the Bible when God was faithful or God was good. (Examples: God saved Daniel from the lions’ den. God rescued Paul from prison.) 2. List or name when you have seen or experienced God’s faithfulness or goodness in your own life. 3. What are some ways we can keep our focus on how God continues to care for us (as opposed to focusing on the circumstances around us)? 4. Who are some people you will remind this week about God’s continuing faithfulness?

Communion Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3

Prayer Concerns: -Medical Personnel -Those affected by COVID-19 -Governmental Leaders -Missionaries

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BCCAnderson At Home March 22, 2020

Theme Scripture - Acts 11:19-30

Questions for further discussion/study: 1. As we are separated, who are some people around you that need to be reminded that Jesus is Lord?

Look again at verse 23. What is it in your own life that is evidence of God’s grace at work? What evidence around you points to the goodness and grace of God?
As I/we – the church – are separated, what can we do to speak peace and hope into the lives around us?

Communion Scripture - Matthew 26:26-29

Prayer Concerns -First Responders -Medical Personnel -Governmental Leaders -Missionaries

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“Serve Joyfully: It’s Not Always Enjoyable” John 13:1-17 March 8, 2020

Serving others is part of what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

God has placed within this church every gift, talent and ability needed for us to accomplish everything God wants us to do.

A Questionable Teaching: If you are serving in the area in which God has created you to serve, you will enjoy what you’re doing.

Serving joyfully isn’t about finding a place to serve that brings you great joy, but finding a place to serve and doing it joyfully.

John 13:1-17

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” -John 13:15

The example isn’t just to wash each other’s feet, but to do for each other those things that no one else really wants to do.

Jesus washed Judas’s dirty feet.

The example of Jesus includes serving those we may not want to serve.

Jesus washed Peter’s dirty feet.

The example of Jesus includes serving those who say one thing today, but do something else tomorrow.

Jesus washes Philip’s dirty feet.

The example of Jesus includes serving those who, no matter how hard we try, they don’t seem to see it.

All examples, eventually lead to the cross.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” -Hebrews 12:2

Jesus’ joy came, not in the act itself, but in His obedience to the Father and knowing He was meeting a need; Jesus endured the cross.

Even when serving is hard, part of what makes it good is serving together with other people and knowing we are serving together with Jesus.

Serving Joyfully: it doesn’t mean we only do the things that make us happy, but we do whatever we can in a joyful way regardless of how pleasant or unpleasant it might be.

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“Pray Fervently: Looking Up” John 6:-15 March 1, 2020

This will change your life!

It is such a simple, pedestrian act, that if we’re not careful, we will miss it.

Pedestrian: ordinary, mundane, routine, dull, unremarkable, run-or-the-mill, everyday.

It is such a simple, pedestrian act, that if we’re not careful, we will miss it.

John 6:1-15

There is a miracle involving over 5,000 people.

“After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, ‘Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.’” -John 6:14

“‘How can I set this before a hundred men?’ his servant asked. But Elisha answered, ‘Give it to the people to eat. For this is what the Lord says: ‘They will eat and have some left over.’ Then he set it before them, and they ate and had some left over, according to the word of the Lord.” -2 Kings 4:43-44

Jesus fulfilled a sign of the coming Messiah.

In the midst of everything that’s taking place, Jesus gave thanks.

“Then some boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the people had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks.” -John 6:23

John draws our attention to the fact that Jesus gave thanks.

“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves.” -Mark 6:41

Matthew, Mark, and Luke add the detail that Jesus looked up.

This simple act of looking up and giving thanks can change your life.

“Then Jesus looked up and said, ‘Father, I thank you that you have heard me . . .’”

As Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead He looked up and gave thanks. John 11:41

“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’” -Luke 18:13

Humility and reverence before God in prayer is modeled in the Bible, but so is looking up and giving thanks.

The act of regularly and frequently giving thanks will change your life.

There is something about looking up that draws our attention to God as the Giver of all good gifts.

A pile of rocks is an image from the Old Testament and a reminder of God’s faithfulness.

Looking up and giving thanks reminds us of God’s goodness even during the times when things are hard. It will change your life!

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“Pray Fervently: Pray Big Prayers” Luke 18:1-8 February 23, 2020

Pray Fervently: Commit to grow in our practice of daily prayer. Study Deeply: Commit to be a part of a Sunday School class or Bible study group as well as to read Scripture daily. Worship in Community: Commit to be present and engaged in worship every Sunday, whether at Bethany or another location. Give Generously: Commit to give generously to others and to the church. Serve Joyfully: Commit to actively serve in a way that benefits the Kingdom. Speak Boldly: Commit to invite at least one person/family a month to Bethany and journey with them, and to also invite one person/family into your home.

We pray about what we care about.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” -1 Peter 5:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” -Philippians 4:6

We will care about what we pray about.

Luke 18:1-8

It appears this parable teaches that if we’re persistent in praying about the things we care about God will eventually respond.

This parable is not a comparison, but a contrast.

If an unjust judge who doesn’t care about anything will respond to someone he doesn’t care about, then certainly God, who is just, will respond to those He does care about.

To understand the focus of this parable we must see this story in it’s context or how it fits into everything else around it.

“Then Jesus told his disciples this parable . . .” (18:1)

Immediately before telling this parable, Jesus is teaching about the coming of the Kingdom. (17:20-37)

The “always pray and not give up” of 18:1 is directly tied to Jesus teaching about the end of all things and the final coming of the Kingdom of God.

As Jesus applies this parable (18:6-8), He speaks of the justice God will bring about at the end and “when the Son of Man (Jesus) comes” will He find faith on the earth?

This parable is about persistently praying with the end in mind.

We will care about the things we pray about.

"Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man." -Luke 21:34-36

Jesus doesn’t tell us these parables to make us religious, Jesus tells us these parables to help us live.

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"Speak Boldly: Be Aware" Mark 4:1-20 February 9, 2020

As Jesus sends us out, many of the conversations happen “as we are going.”

As we and the disciples follow Jesus and observe what He does, there are times He formally taught.

As we read through the Gospels it appears the majority of was happens, and the interactions Jesus has “just happen.”

"Jesus left the synagogue and went to the home of Simon. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked Jesus to help her. So he bent over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up at once and began to wait on them. At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, 'You are the Son of God!' But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Messiah. At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. But he said, 'I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.' And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea." -Luke 4:38-44

"One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. Some of the Pharisees asked, 'Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?' Jesus answered them, 'Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God, and taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.' Then Jesus said to them, 'The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.' On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, 'Get up and stand in front of everyone.' So he got up and stood there. Then Jesus said to them, 'I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?' He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' He did so, and his hand was completely restored." -Luke 6:1-10

As he was doing what he was going to do anyway, Jesus was aware and taught and healed.

“Soon afterward, Jesu went to a town call Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out – the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, 'Don’t cry.' -Luke 7:11

Jesus cared for a woman and mother that was upset

"When one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, he went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, 'If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.' Jesus answered him, 'Simon, I have something to tell you.' 'Tell me, teacher,' he said. 'Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?' Simon replied, 'I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.' 'You have judged correctly,' Jesus said. Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, 'Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.' Then Jesus said to her, 'Your sins are forgiven.'" -Luke 7:36-48

Jesus was aware and saw and knew that the woman who had sinned needed Him so he listened and helped.

“I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” -Luke 6:43

Most of the time, these opportunities, as modeled by Jesus, are right there in front of us.

There are opportunities all around us, every day to speak boldly.

What is one very real and active step toward speaking boldly in some of your encounters with others?

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"Speak Boldly: Be Aware" Mark 4:1-20 February 9, 2020

As Jesus sends us out, many of the conversations happen “as we are going.”

As we and the disciples follow Jesus and observe what He does, there are times He formally taught.

As we read through the Gospels it appears the majority of was happens, and the interactions Jesus has “just happen.”

"Jesus left the synagogue and went to the home of Simon. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked Jesus to help her. So he bent over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up at once and began to wait on them. At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, 'You are the Son of God!' But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Messiah. At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. But he said, 'I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.' And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea." -Luke 4:38-44

"One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. Some of the Pharisees asked, 'Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?' Jesus answered them, 'Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God, and taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.' Then Jesus said to them, 'The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.' On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, 'Get up and stand in front of everyone.' So he got up and stood there. Then Jesus said to them, 'I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?' He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' He did so, and his hand was completely restored." -Luke 6:1-10

As he was doing what he was going to do anyway, Jesus was aware and taught and healed.

“Soon afterward, Jesu went to a town call Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out – the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, 'Don’t cry.' -Luke 7:11

Jesus cared for a woman and mother that was upset

"When one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, he went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, 'If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.' Jesus answered him, 'Simon, I have something to tell you.' 'Tell me, teacher,' he said. 'Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?' Simon replied, 'I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.' 'You have judged correctly,' Jesus said. Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, 'Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.' Then Jesus said to her, 'Your sins are forgiven.'" -Luke 7:36-48

Jesus was aware and saw and knew that the woman who had sinned needed Him so he listened and helped.

“I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” -Luke 6:43

Most of the time, these opportunities, as modeled by Jesus, are right there in front of us.

There are opportunities all around us, every day to speak boldly.

What is one very real and active step toward speaking boldly in some of your encounters with others?

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"Speak Boldly: We Don’t Need to Know Everything" Mark 13:32 February 2, 2020

Speaking boldly will look different depending on the situation we find ourselves in.

“They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. ‘By what authority are you doing these things?’ they asked. ‘And who gave you authority to do this?’ Jesus replied, ‘I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!’ They discussed it among themselves and said, ‘If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin’ …’ (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.) So they answered Jesus, ‘We don’t know.’ Jesus said, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.’” – Mark 11:27-33

We have to be able to read the situation and context, so we know how to best respond.

“Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words. They came to him and said, ‘Teacher, we know that you are a man of integrity. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or shouldn’t we?’ But Jesus knew their hypocrisy. ‘Why are you trying to trap me?’ he asked. ‘Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.’ They brought the coin, and he asked them, ‘Whose image is this? And whose inscription?’ ‘Caesar’s,’ they replied. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.’ And they were amazed at him.” – Mark 12:13-17

There is another option; the way of Jesus

“Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him with a question. ‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. Now there were seven brothers. The first one married and died without leaving any children. The second one married the widow, but he also died, leaving no child. It was the same with the third. In fact, none of the seven left any children. Last of all, the woman died too. At the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?’ Jesus replied, ‘Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God? When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven. Now about the dead rising—have you not read in the Book of Moses, in the account of the burning bush, how God said to him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?’ He is not the God of the dead, but of the living. You are badly mistaken!’” – Mark 12:18-27

Have the bigger conversation.

“One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, ‘Of all the commandments, which is the most important?’ ‘The most important one,’ answered Jesus, ‘is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.’ ‘Well said, teacher,’ the man replied. ‘You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.’ When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’ And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.” – Mark 12:28-34

Be willing to not just answer the question but encourage them to keep seeking God.

Jesus answers questions in different ways with different people.

“Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?” – Mark 13:4

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angles in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.” – Mark 13:32

Mark 13:32 = I don’t know.

More than an answer, we need God to show up.

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"Speak Boldly: Not Everyone Says "'Yes'" Mark 4:1-20 January 26, 2020

What took place with the disciples before Jesus sent them out the first time?

"As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will send you out to fish for people.' At once they left their nets and followed him. When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him." -Mark 1:16-20

"Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. 'Follow me,' Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: 'Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?' On hearing this, Jesus said to them, 'It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.' -Mark 2:13-17

The disciples themselves were invited in

"The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, 'What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.' News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee." -Mark 1:27-28

"Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere." -Mark 1:45

“Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon.” -Mark 3:7-8

The disciples watched others become followers of Jesus

Who invited you? How did becoming a follower of Jesus happen in your life?

Not everyone that hears will respond positively and even some that do respond will not continue in a life of faith.

This is good for us to know and good for us to know that Jesus knows.

"Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. 'Where did this man get these things?' they asked. 'What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?' And they took offense at him. Jesus said to them, 'A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.' He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith." -Mark 6:1-6

What step will you take in Speaking Boldly this week?

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“Study Deeply: Do It!” Matthew 20:20-28 January 19, 2020

A disciple is someone who follows closely behind another to learn their ways, their language, their attitudes, their values, their beliefs, what they do, and why they do it for the purpose of becoming like the one they follow.

Historically, disciples of Jesus are called Christians.

“The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” -Acts 11:26

A Christian is someone who follows closely behind Jesus to learn His ways, His language, His actions, His attitudes, His beliefs, what He did/does, and why He did/does it for the purpose of becoming like Jesus.

Discipleship is the process through which a disciple becomes like their master.

“‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will make you fishers of men.’ At once they left their nets and followed him.” -Matthew 4:19-20

“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’ When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.” -Matthew 19:21-22

Being a disciple of Jesus includes discipling others.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” -Matthew 28:19-20

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” -1 Corinthians 11:1

“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.” -2 Timothy 2:2

We are discipled by Jesus directly through the Bible, by the Holy Spirit, and through the lives of others.

Who has discipled you, helping you become like Jesus?

Matthew 20:20-28

You must live as a servant.

You will serve as I serve.

As a Christian we must do what the Master says and live like the Master lives.

Often what we are instructed to do seems unnatural.

A necessary step of being a Christian is obedience.

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” -Luke 6:46

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“Study Deeply: Ask Questions” Matthew 18:1-4 January 12, 2020

Matthew 18 begins with a question.

Only those who are willing to ask, wrestle, discuss and think more will be changed.

“The disciples came to him and asked, ‘Why do you speak to the people in parables?’" -Matthew 13:10

“The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them.” -Matthew 13:11

“Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.” -Matthew 13:12

“This is why I speak to them in parables: ‘Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.” -Matthew 13:13

Jesus speaks in parables.

The disciples ask “Why?”

Jesus says it is so “they” won’t get it, but “you” will.

“In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: ‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'” -Matthew 13:14-15

“But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.” -Matthew 13:16

The disciples see and hear.

What have the disciples seen and heard?

Jesus is Lord. Jesus is Savior. Jesus is Messiah.

Because the believe, they ask questions.

One characteristic that seems to set the disciples apart was their willingness to ask questions.

“You don’t need to know everything today.”

“I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” -Matthew 18:3-4

A disciple is someone who is humble enough to ask questions.

“When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.’ At this, some of the teachers of the law said to themselves, ‘This fellow is blaspheming!’" -Matthew 9:2-3

“But the Pharisees said, ‘It is by the prince of demons that he drives out demons.’" -Matthew 9:34

“But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus.” -Matthew 12:14

Questions don’t demonstrate a lack of faith, they might demonstrate a strong faith.

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” -Matthew 7:7-8

We cannot know everything today.

Studying deeply doesn’t mean finding all the answers, it sometimes means finding lots of questions.

"All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” -John 14:25-26

Being a follower of Jesus means having enough faith to ask questions.

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“Study Deeply: Be Amazed” Matthew 8:23-27 January 5, 2020

“Count Me In”

Pray Fervently: commit to grow in our practice of daily prayer. Study Deeply: commit to be a part of a Sunday School class or Bible study group, as well as, to read Scripture daily. Worship in Community: commit to be present and engaged in worship every Sunday, whether at Bethany or another location. Give Generously: commit to give generously to the church. Serve Joyfully: commit to actively serve in a way that benefits the Kingdom. Speak Boldly: commit to invite at least one person or family a month to Bethany and journey with them, and to invite one person/family into your home.

As we grow in these practices we are shaped and changed into the type of people who reflect the character and grace of God.

Pray Fervently Give Generously Study Deeply Serve Joyfully Worship in Community Speak Boldly

As you read the Bible be amazed!

God reveals or makes Himself known to us through the Scriptures.

The Bible expands our view of God.

The place to start is to be amazed.

Being amazed was part of the disciples’ process of coming to understand who Jesus is. Matthew 8:23-27

Amazed = Unbelievable!

Be amazed at who Jesus is.

“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.” -Matthew 1:18

“The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” –which means, ‘God with us.’” -Matthew 1:23

Be amazed at what Jesus does.

“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people . . .” -Matthew 4:23

Be amazed at what Jesus taught and commands us to do.

“If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other cheek also.” -Matthew 5:39

“If someone wants to take your coat, give him shirt as well.” -Matthew 5:40

“love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” -Matthew 5:44

“If anyone looks at another person lustfully, they have already committed adultery with them in their heart.” -Matthew 5:28

“Don’t worry about tomorrow.” -Matthew 6:34

Be amazed.

If we are not amazed, then chances are we have missed what the Bible is saying.

“When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.” -Matthew 7:28-29

Jesus said to taste it.

Be amazed and then let someone else taste it too.

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“Seeds” Galatians 6:7-10 December 29, 2019

One of the word pictures often used in the Bible is seed.

You reap what you sow. What you plant is what you grow.

Lord, increase our faith (Prayer, Study, Worship, Giving, Serving, Speaking) to the size of a mustard seed.

Plant generously so you can be part of a great harvest.

May we be the type of soil that when the seed (the Word of God) comes into our lives, it may take root and produces fruit.

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“He Could Not Be Hid” Mark 7:24 December 22, 2019

“Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret.” -Mark 7:24

He could not be hid.

His Birth “So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.” -Luke 2:4

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” -Luke 2:10-11

His Boyhood “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” -John 1:46a

“Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers.” -Luke 2:47

His Baptism

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’“ -John 1:29

“And a voice came from heaven: ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.’ “ -Mark 1:11

Temptation “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.” -Matthew 4:1

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet was without sin.” -Hebrews 4:15

His Teaching “As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere.” -Mark 1:45b

The Transfiguration “After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.” -Mark 9:2-4

“Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: ‘This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!’” -Mark 9:7

The Triumphal Entry

“Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, rebuke your disciples!’ ‘I tell you,’ he replied, ‘if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.’ “ -Luke 19:39-40

In the Garden “Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, ‘Pray that you will not fall into temptation.’ He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed.” -Luke 22:39-41

His Trial “ ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’ asked Pilate.” “ ‘Yes, it is as you say,’ Jesus replied.” -Mark 15:2

The Crucifixion

“When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, ‘Surely he was the Son of God!’ “ -Matthew 27:54

The Resurrection “. . . he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time.” -1 Corinthians 15:4b-6

His Ascension “When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.” -Luke 24:50-51

His Return “For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. . . .At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory.” -Matthew 24:27, 30

He cannot be hid!

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” -Psalm 139:13

He cannot be hid.

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” -Luke 2:19

“Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart.” -Luke 2:51

We must treasure up all we know about Jesus.

We cannot be hid from Him.

This is Christ the King!

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“First Fruits” Philippians 3:12-21

Pray Fervently Study Deeply Worship in Community Give Generously Serve Joyfully Speak Boldly

First Fruits was an offering at the start of the harvest.

First Fruits was an expression of gratitude.

First Fruits was gratitude expressed in restraint.

“Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” -James 1:16-17

First Fruits was about faith and promise.

The first fruits of Count Me In is about gratitude . . .

The first fruits of Count Me In is about gratitude and promise.

Eventually the newness will wear off and the hard work will begin.

In Philippians 1:6 is the promise that He who began a good work in us will bring it to completion.

God is at work in us, but we have a role to play.

“What I'm getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you've done from the beginning. When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience. Now that I'm separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure.” -Philippians 2:12-13 (The Message)

He who began a good work in us will bring it to completion, but we have a role to play as well.

As we continue to work we must strain toward what is ahead and press on toward the goal.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” -Galatians 6:9

All of us who are mature need to listen up.

Take note of those who live according to this pattern of faith.

If we do not grow weary and we continue to press on, we will also continue to enjoy the fruit along the way.

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“Choose Life” Deuteronomy 30:11-20 December 8, 2019

The Bible is filled with invitations and points of decision.

“Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” -Genesis 6:22

“Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you . . . and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” -Genesis 12:1-3

“I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” -Esther 4:16b

“Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” -Matthew 4:19

“At once they left their nets and followed him.” -Matthew 4:20

“Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it . . .” -Jonah 1:2

“But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish.” -Jonah 1:3

“Go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” -Matthew 19:21

“When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.” -Matthew 19:22

God invites us into something better, but most often it is also an invitation into something hard.

God invites us into something of purpose which has the potential to affect the lives of others.

Deuteronomy 30:11-20 is an invitation given by God, but spoken by Moses.

The Israelites were eagerly waiting on the east side of the Jordan River, ready to cross over into the Promise Land.

Deuteronomy 30:11-20

It was an invitation to life and an invitation into something better.

What God asked was not beyond their reach.

Life is found in obedience to God’s Word and death is found in disobedience.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” -John 13:34

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” -Ephesians 5:21

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” -Ephesians 4:29

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” -Ephesians 4:32

Their choice will impact those who come after them.

Moses nails down the invitation.

Moses brings them to a point of decision.

“Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.” -Nehemiah 4:14

Am I woman/man enough to do it?

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"Speak Boldly" Acts 4; 1 Peter 3:15 December 1, 2019

Being bold can be a scary thing.

Peter and John showed boldness in what they were saying.

How did Peter and John speak boldly?

We speak boldly about what we believe deeply.

Telling stories about things that truly matter, helps keep us tied to the Kingdom ourselves.

How do we begin/continue to speak more boldly?

Start where you are.

Be bolder in new or small ways.

Pray for the Holy Spirit to fill us with more courage.

Look for opportunities to talk about Jesus.

Invite others: -into your home to share a meal. -to the Christmas service here on December 22. -to Christmas Eve service -to the Single Service Sunday on December 29. -to the Winter Carnivale at the end of January.

"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." -1 Peter 3:15

How is God calling you to speak more boldly?

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“Serve Joyfully” Joshua 24:14-15; John 13:14-15 November 24, 2019

“Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’” – Mark 9:35

“. . . whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:43-45

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13

“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” – Philippians 2:5-7

We are to take on the mindset and nature of a servant.

In order to be a servant, there must also be a master.

“Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:14-15

We get to choose our master.

For the first Christians, it was about serving, not ruling.

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” - Acts 2:42-45

“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.” - Acts 4:32-35

Church, “ecclesia”, is a living and breathing display of a whole new way of going about life.

One of the key elements of the early church was serving.

We find a deeper kind of joy when we place ourselves under a good master and serve him.

“When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ he asked them. ‘You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.’” - John 13:12-17

A good servant does what their master asks them to do.

We must enter into this way of training ourselves to become certain types of people.

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“Give Generously” Luke 10:1-24

What’s the expression that you most often see on Jesus’ face?

Jesus smiling.

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” -John 10:10

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” -Galatians 5:1

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” -Matthew 11:28

Jesus set us free to find something good.

One of the areas of freedom Jesus wants to lead me/us into is generosity.

God wants me to be a source of blessing to others.

“Freely you have received, freely give.” -Matthew 10:8

“If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?” -1 John 3:17

God will provide all I need.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:19

The heart of God gives

“He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all–how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” -Romans 8:32

Worrying about money chokes the Word in me.

“Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.” -Mark 4:18-29

Worrying about money is a bottomless trap.

“People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” -1 Timothy 6:9-10

I want to be a more generous person.

Am I willing to enter into a life of training?

I must let go.

I must trust.

Don’t be foolish. Be generous.

Luke 10:1-24

Jesus send them out with nothing.

They come back excited.

It’s not just about me.

We get to be part of how God blesses people.

That’s why Jesus is smiling.

Give generously to the on-going ministries of Bethany.

Give generously to Faith Promise supporting the Kinemans in England

Give generously to the building enhancements and improvements.

Give generously to the people around me.

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“Worship in Community” Psalm 121; Hebrews 10:25 November 10, 2019

Speed limit signs and laws are not placed there by the government to exercise control or to demonstrate their authority or to make our lives more difficult . . .

. . . they are there to help us and to maintain a society that works.

Worship is commanded in the Bible.

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” -Psalm 100:1-2

“When they first lived there, they did not worship the Lord; so he sent lions among them and they killed some of the people.” -2 Kings 17:25

“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” -Hebrews 10:25

There are practices that are fundamental to what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

These practices help to reshape how we live and think.

Worshiping in community trains us to look up.

“I lift up my eyes to the hills–where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” -Psalm 121:1-2

2 Kings 6:8-23

The Aramean army surrounded Elisha and his servant.

The servant’s eyes were open and he looked up.

“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” -Hebrews 10:25

The weekly practice of worshiping in community trains us to look up.

Acts 16:16-40

In prison, Paul and Silas were praying and singing to God.

Others in the exact same spot as Paul and Silas were given the opportunity to look up along with them.

As they looked up they were able to catch their breath and think clearly.

“This book is dedicated to my parents who did an extraordinary job living ordinary life to the full. They modeled the most important things about life to us six kids: love one another (especially when unlovable), go to church (particularly when it’s boring), eat long meals together (at the smallest possible tables) . . .” – Julie Canlis

Worshiping in community helps train us to live an ordinary life to the full

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“Study Deeply” Romans 10:17 November 03, 2019

Maybe you have had a time in your life where you really needed to hear from God.

“‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’” -Luke 24:32

When we are in our darkest hours, and even when we are at our highest points we need to hear from God.

Faith is our response or acting based on our belief that God is who he says he is and will do all that he says he has and will do.

Our actions come from hearing the message through the word about Christ.

The Bible is one of our main sources of giving God’s Spirit an opportunity to speak to us. One of the byproducts of studying deeply is learning to listen to God.

Biblical meditation involves reading God’s word over and over, slowly, and out loud.

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do” - James 1:22-25

We get so wrapped up in trying to be a “Good Person” that we begin to try to earn our salvation practices like reading the Bible.

Sometimes reading the Bible can feel like a chore or an obligation.

“Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.” -Psalm 119:7

“The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.” -Psalm 19:7,8

Read what is sustainable over the long haul for you

Logos Bible Software

The Bible Project videos on YouTube and The Bible Project podcast.

The Bible App also called YouVersion Bible App.

NIV Live: a Bible experience or The Word of Promise Audio Bible

Get involved in a group

Count Me In to Study deeply: Read God’s word daily, and meet with a group

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“Pray Fervently” Psalm 46 October 27, 2019

What if God would decide to use a group of people like us to accomplish His purpose?

“. . . to produce well-educated Native American Christian leaders who will positively affect their communities and culture.”

“Mission Creep” - when other agendas and causes creep in to take over the primary focus.

Trying to affect change by discipling individuals and families who will disciple others take a long time.

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” -Matthew 28:18-20

The long-term effectiveness of a church is not primarily based on what they do, but on who they are.

“. . . go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” -Matthew 28:19-20

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” -John 13:34-35

“Count Me In” - remembering who we are and why we’re here.

Entering into a life of training.

As we engage in these practice, they are changing us in ways we may not see at the time.

When we engage in the practice of prayer we learn to slow down.

Hurry is an enemy of a life well-lived.

“Be still, and know that I am God .” -Psalm 46:10

Acts 1

Slowing down may not be the purpose of prayer, but as we engage in prayer we learn a different rhythm.

Don’t just pray, stop and pray.

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“Training Not Trying” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 October 20, 2019

I do not want to be the person I am right now tomorrow . . .

I do not want to be the person I am right now tomorrow; I want to be a better version of who I am.

It’s not just about me, it’s also about how my life affects the life of others.

Maybe if I try harder?

We have to enter into a life of training.

“I had never practiced. Practiced until it became the second nature, the first skin. Practice is the hardest part of learning, and training is the essence of transformation. Practice, practice, practice.” -Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, page 56.

I Corinthians 9:24-27

To win the prize we must enter into strict training.

The race is about other people.

We need other people if we are going to train well and run well.

“I was waiting for God to give me His grace through supernatural zapping; He was giving it to me through His people. I was waiting for Him to speak to me directly; He was speaking to me through His people. I was waiting for Him to give me direction in life; He was the strength behind the direction people were giving me; I was waiting for Him to heal my depression; He sent special people to comfort me . . . this was not Plan B or second rate at all! In fact, people helping people was Plan A!” -Henry Cloud, How People Grow, page 120.

God’s Plan A is people.

Count Me In to a life of training.

Pray Fervently

Study Deeply

Worship in Community

Give Generously

Serve Joyfully

Speak Boldly

We run the race for the glory of the King and His Kingdom.

We run the race to become better versions of ourselves.

We run the race to win the prize set before us.

We run the race for the sake of those we love.

Keep it in front of me with a daily devotional.

Enlist another person so we are not running alone.

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“Just Keep . . .” Galatians 6:9 December 30, 2018

Let us not grow weary in doing good.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” -Galatians 6:9

Part of what “good” means in Galatians is described in the Fruit of the Spirit.

“Do not grow weary” means you are already doing good.

Paul says “do not grow weary” because it is sometimes hard to just keep going.

Sometimes it hurts.

Sometimes it is counter culture.

Sometimes I don’t want to.

Sometimes I don’t think about it.

Sometimes I don’t see results.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” -Galatians 6:9

We all need others to spur us on so that we do not grow weary and just keep doing good.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” -Galatians 6:9

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“God Reveals Love” Ephesians 3:14-20 December 23, 2018

Hope: living with the expectation and promise of something better.

Peace: the one all-encompassing word which describes the something better.

Joy: the action and attitude with which we live because of the promise and presence of something better.

Love: the foundation/reason for God’s action.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” -John 3:16-17

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” -Romans 5:8

The reason/foundation for God’s action is found in the fact that God is a loving God.

Loving people care.

Loving people were loving people before we knew them and they will be loving people after we’re gone.

Loving people are not self-promoting.

God is a loving God.

God cares.

God was a loving God before we were around and God will be a loving God after we’re gone.

God is not self-promoting.

Ephesians 3:14-20

We often have to pay attention, ask questions, look around, and listen to catch how high, long, wide, and deep is the love of God.

“‘The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ –which means, ‘God with us.’” -Matthew 1:23

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” -Luke 2:11-12

I can choose to live in, around, and enjoy the love of God or I can choose to turn my back and ignore the love of God? Either way, it does not change who God is.

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“God Reveals Joy” Isaiah 35:10; Luke 2:8-14 December 16, 2018

Our Mission: "Recover and Maintain Focus”

Creation

Godlessness and Wickedness

God Gave Them Over

God Reveals Hope

The Coming of Jesus

The King Is in Place

God’s Patience

Jesus Revealed and Return

Judgment and Destruction

Return and Renewal

We live here: The Prince of Peace has come.

“And the ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.” -Isaiah 35:10

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.’” -Luke 2:10-14

The Coming of Jesus is reason for great joy.

How do I recover and maintain focus?

I can have joy knowing everything will be okay because God is here.

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“God Reveals Peace” Zechariah 6:12-13 December 9, 2018

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” -Isaiah 9:6

“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.’” -Luke 2:13-14

Peace: “everything is okay”

Peace: “not the absence of evil, but the presence of God”

Peace is that one all-encompassing word that includes all that is good that we hope for.

The world has longed for peace, worked for peace, and fought for peace.

Israel had a hope and a promise of a peace that was to come.

The Bible begins and ends with a tree.

“A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.” -Isaiah 11:1

Zechariah 6:12-13

“Tell him this is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Here is the man whose name is the Branch, and he will branch out from his place and build the temple of the Lord. It is he who will build the temple of the Lord, and he will be clothed with majesty and will sit and rule on his throne. And he will be a priest on his throne. And there will be harmony between the two.’” -Zechariah 6:12-13

This Branch that brings peace is both a King and a Priest.

We don’t just live in this peace, we are active participants in this peace.

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” -Acts 2:44-47a

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” -Acts 1:8

We don’t just live in this peace, we are active participants in this peace.

In the middle of the mess there is peace.

Because God is present, everything is okay . . .

Because God is present, everything is okay and this peace is real.

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"God Reveals Hope" Isaiah 11:1, 10

"A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit." -Isaiah 11:1 "In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him and his resting place will be glorious." -Isaiah 11:10

Jesse is David's father

Stump of Jesse = family tree

"See, the Lord, the Lord Almighty, will lop off the boughs with great power. The lofty trees will be felled, the tall ones will be brought low. He will cut down the forest thickets with an ax;" -Isaiah 10:33-34

Israel had become like a stump.

This is a picture of hope.

Hope = This sense that with God, new life is possible.

"Hoping does not mean doing nothing . . . It is the opposite of desperate and panicky manipulations, of scurrying and worrying. And hoping is not dreaming. it is not spinning an illusion or fantasy to protect us from our boredom or pain. It means a confident, alert expectation that God will do what He said He will do. It is imagination put in the harness of faith. It is a willingness to let God do it His way and in His time." - Eugene Peterson (A Long Obedience in the Same Direction)

The King will come from the stump of Jesse and He will change everything.

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“A Kingdom We Did Not Create, Pt.2" Romans 3:21-31 November 18, 2018

There is a universal longing for a different kind of life and a different kind of world.

God will make all things right.

“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’” -Romans 1:16-17

How do we included in what God is doing in the world? Romans 3:21-31

There is a way to have a right standing before God which is not dependant on being pefect or perfectly keeping the law.

This way is open to all people who beleive.

Justice: “Someone has to pay!”

Just and Justifier: Jesus did pay.

That’s not fair, it is more than fair. Especially, when I think in terms of me.

We have nothing to boast about.

The law has not been set aside, but upheld.

My response should be one of humility.

How do I feel about the people out there?

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“A Kingdom We Did Not Create” Romans 3:21-31 November 11, 2018

The Gospel is the Bigger Story of what God has done, is doing, and will do in the world.

Creation Godlessness and Wickedness God Gave Them Over God Reveals Hope The Coming of Jesus The King Is in Place God’s Patience

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” -2 Peter 3:9

Jesus Revealed and Returns Judgment and Destruction Re-Creation and Renewal

“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.” -2 Peter 3:13

How do we get included in the Bigger Story?

Everyone is part of the story.

How do we get included in the redemption story?

Even though we are the ones who broke it, we are not the ones who can fix it.

Romans 3:19-20

We cannot be included in the redemption story based on our own merit.

The only way to be included in the story is to be invited in by Jesus based on who He is and what He has done.

The only reason any of us are included in the story now is because of Jesus.

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“Becoming a Christian Nation Will Not Fix Our Problem” Romans 2:17-3:20 November 4, 2018

How can we fulfill Jesus’ prayer: “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven?”

It will not happen through the power of the human spirit.

We are not that good.

What if we can get everyone to obey God’s Law?

Wrong answer!

Even those who know and have God’s Law can’t do it.

History proved it to be impossible for the Jewish nation.

As long as we believe we can fix our problem by getting everyone to live in obedience to God, not only will we be disappointed and frustrated at the world and at ourselves, but we will never grab hold of the one true answer.

It won’t work, because we can’t do it.

Rome became a Christian nation under the Emperor Constantine, but it didn’t fix their problem or fix the world.

Living and governing according to Christian principles, God’s Law, and the ways of Jesus is better in every way!

Those who say they’re Christian, but do not follow the ways of Jesus do not take away from the truth of God.

Until we can fully come to grips with the reality that becoming a Christian nation will not fix our problem, we will not grab hold of the one way that will work.

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“All Aspects of the Journey” Matthew 28:18-20 October 28, 2018

So who do you listen to? MECHANIC? DOCTOR?

A few of the Doctor’s orders? Some of the Doctor’s orders? Most of the Doctor’s orders? All of the Doctor’s orders?

Because we know that to receive the full benefit, we must follow the complete instructions!!

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ’All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” -Matthew 28:18-20

1 Peter 3:15-16

Romans 5:1-13

2 Timothy 3:16-17

2nd Corinthians 5:16-20

Because we know that to receive the full benefit, we must follow the complete instructions!!

To be the whole person God has called us to be, we must partake in all aspects of the journey.

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“Living in God’s Patience” Romans 2:1-16 October 21, 2018

What does God have to say to Christians living in the most powerful empire in the world?

The reason “we” can’t fix what’s broken is because the human spirit is fatally flawed.

The problem with our world is godlessness and wickedness.

“The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness.” -Romans 1:18

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” -2 Chronicles 7:14

The problem with our world is godlessness and wickedness.

The problem isn’t just one or two sins that we might identify as the problem, it’s the whole list.

It’s not just them, it’s us.

We need to be careful and not take God’s patience with us lightly!

It’s not the people who have the law who are going to be able to fix what’s broken, it’s those who actually do what it says, but that’s where we fall short.

Becoming a Christian nation will not fix our problem.

Change the way we look at people.

Jonah was sent.

Jonah disobeyed.

God extended grace.

Jonah went.

Jonah got mad.

“So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.” -2 Corinthians 5:16

I can’t really love people I hate.

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“Bigger than You Think” Romans 1:16-17; 8:18-25 October 14, 2018

Romans isn’t just about saving my soul, it’s about making me whole and how we play a part in making the world whole as well.

“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” -Romans 1:16

Salvation is bigger than we think.

Creation

Godlessness and Wickedness

God Gave Them Over

God Reveals Hope

The Coming of Jesus

The King Is in Place

God’s Patience

Jesus Revealed and Returns

Judgment and Destruction

Re-Creation and Renewal

Believers go to be with Jesus when they die.

“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” -2 Corinthians 5:8

“I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.” -Philippians 1:23-24

“Jesus answered him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.’” -Luke 23:43

They called out in a loud voice, ‘How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?’” -Revelation 6:10

What happens in the end is bigger than going to Heaven when we die.

“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.” -2 Peter 3:13

“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever.” -Revelation 11:15

“I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” -Genesis 12:3

It’s not just us who are saved, but creation. Romans 8:18-25

Salvation is about God making all things new.

“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.” -2 Peter 3:10

“By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men.” -2 Peter 3:6-7

“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” -1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.” -Revelation 21:1-3

Those things we do now, during the time of God’s patience, in some way carry over into the new heaven and new earth.

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“The World Is Going to Hell” Romans 1:18-32 October 7, 2018

“The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men . . .” -Romans 1:18

“This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.” -Romans 2:16

As the Holy Spirit reminds us of the Bigger Story of what God has done, is doing, and will do in the world, He also dismantles some of the lesser stories we have come to believe.

We’ve been led to believe in the power of the human spirit.

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” -Romans 12:2a

We can not fix our world.

Romans 1:18-32

This is not a religious problem, this is a humanity problem.

We chose to create our own version of God who fits what we want to do.

God gave them over.

In Romans 1:18-32 we have a picture of the human condition and we can see that we are fatally flawed.

I will respond with humility when I voice my opinions.

I will do a daily, honest moral inventory

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“Not Ashamed of the Gospel” Romans 1:8-17 September 30, 2018

What does God have to say to Christians living in the most powerful empire in the world?

The emperor is not the most powerful person in the world, Jesus is.

The Gospel is the bigger story of what God has done, is doing and will do in the world.

Creation

Godlessness and Wickedness

God Gives Them Over

God Reveals Hope

The Coming of Jesus

The King Is in Place

God’s Patience

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” -2 Peter 3:9

Jesus Revealed and Returns

Judgement and Destruction

Re-creation and Renewal

“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.” -2 Peter 3:13

Once we know the bigger story, then we can see where we fit.

If Romans and the Gospel do not speak to those things which occupy my time and attention today, then Romans and the Gospel don’t speak to me.

“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” Genesis 1:31

“Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you.” -Genesis 3:17-18

We live in the midst of a broken world.

As we suffer during this time of God’s patience, we are sharing in the sufferings of Jesus for the sake of others who will come to faith.

“So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel.” -2 Timothy 1:8

“And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.” -2 Timothy 1:11-12

The Gospel changes the way we see the world.

Can I stand with Paul and say that I am not ashamed of the Gospel because I know it is true?

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“Called to Live a Bigger Story” Romans 1:1-7 September 23, 2018

What does God have to say to Christians living in the most powerful empire in the world?

Changing the way we look at the world.

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” -Romans 12:2

The emperor is not the most powerful person in the world.

“Christ” = anointed one

“Paul, a servant of King Jesus . . .”

“Apostle” = one who is sent

“Gospel” = good news

Paul was a servant of King Jesus, sent on a mission to tell people everywhere the good news of Jesus.

We need to know where we fit in the story.

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” -2 Peter 3:9

√ Creation

√ Godlessness and Wickedness

√ God Gives Them Over

√ God Reveals Hope

√ The Coming of Jesus

√ The King Is in Place

√ God’s Patience

 Jesus Revealed and Returns

 Judgment and Destruction

Re-Creation and Renewal

We live in the time of God’s patience.

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“A Letter Tailor-Made for Christians Living in the United States in the Year 2018” Romans 1:1-17; 15:14; 16:1-16 September 16, 2018

Romans is a letter originally written to Christians living in Rome.

Romans was written by Paul as guided and directed by the Holy Spirit.

Romans was written to Christians living in Rome during the mid-to-late 50’s A.D.

They lived in the most powerful empire in the world.

They lived in a very fragile empire.

The number of Christians living in Rom at this time was small.

These Christians were of different backgrounds and beliefs.

Their faith was being reported all over the world.

They lived in obedience to Jesus.

They had been believers for many years and had often worked with Paul in other places.

They were competent to teach each other.

Romans is a letter written to a small band of believers living in the most powerful empire in the world.

We live in the most powerful nation in the world.

We live in a very fragile nation.

We are quickly becoming a minority in our country.

We come from different backgrounds and beliefs.

Our faith is being reported all over the world.

We live in obedience to Jesus.

Some of us have been believers for many years and have often worked hard for the Lord.

We are competent to teach each other.

Romans is a letter tailor-made for Christians living in the United States in the year 2018.

Romans is a letter that is tailor-made for us.

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