Karen Vineyard Church: Recent Episodes
Karen Vineyard Church
Current Sermon Series: 1&2 Peter. For the next couple of months come with us and dive into God’s Word. An epistle written many years ago but so applicable to us today.
Current Sermon Series: 1&2 Peter. For the next couple of months come with us and dive into God’s Word. An epistle written many years ago but so applicable to us today.
Current Sermon Series: 1&2 Peter. For the next couple of months come with us and dive into God’s Word. An epistle written many years ago but so applicable to us today.
New Sermon Series: 1&2 Peter. For the next couple of months come with us and dive into God’s Word. An epistle written many years ago but so applicable to us today.
New Sermon Series: 1&2 Peter. For the next couple of months come with us and dive into God’s Word. An epistle written many years ago but so applicable to us today.
New Sermon Series: 1&2 Peter. For the next couple of months come with us and dive into God’s Word. An epistle written many years ago but so applicable to us today. In 1 Peter, it encourages the Christian believers to stay strong in the face of persecution. To emulate Christ in His suffering and to beware of their real adversary, the devil who “prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour” In 2 Peter, Peter’s theme is a simple one: Pursue spiritual maturity through the Word of God as remedy for false teaching and a right response to heretics in light of Christ’s promised second coming (2 Peter 1:3, 16).
Pastor Doug Brown is the Teaching Pastor, New Life Church Pomona CA
He shares from Luke 5. 17-26
John 13; Philippians 2
Message Video Link
Our call to worship is from Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Service Video Link
Our call to worship is from Joel 2:12-13
“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.”
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
-- Teddy Roosevelt
What is a Worldview?
“A worldview is a set of basic beliefs, assumptions, and values that arise from a narrative about the world and produces individual and group action that shapes human culture. A worldview can be broken down into three parts: basic beliefs, a master story, and action. Every worldview you evaluate will contain these elements.”
WHAT IS A WORLDVIEW?
It is what a person believes to be true; it influences how we view every area of life, culture, parenting, marriage, man, woman and the world.
ALL OF US HAVE A WORLDVIEW!
Psalm 40: I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in Him.
Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
Many, Lord my God, are the wonders You have done,
the things You planned for us.
None can compare with You; were I to speak and tell of Your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.
Sacrifice and offering You did not desire but my ears
You have opened burnt offerings and sin offerings You did not require.
Then I said, “Here I am, I have come it is written about me in the scroll.
I desire to do Your will, my God; Your law is within my heart.”
I proclaim Your saving acts in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord,
as You know. I do not hide Your righteousness in my heart;
I speak of Your faithfulness and Your saving help.
I do not conceal Your love and Your faithfulness from the great assembly.
The LORD IS MY SHEPHERD A Psalm of David. *The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.*
*Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.*
*You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever*
It is not enough to just believe in Jesus as Lord, we need the Holy Spirit. The church cannot function without the power of the Holy Spirit and to partner with the Holy Spirit requires that we stand back and let Him move; and keep praying, “Come HolySpirit”.
In this concluding message the three things we can learn from the Book of Jonah are:
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God Loves PEOPLE
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God's Plan For Saving People Involves PEOPLE
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God's Willing To Do Whatever It Takes To Save PEOPLE
God is a God of second chances. Jonah was a reluctant prophet wanting only his prosperity and not for his enemies but God in his mercies and love gives common grace to all sinners. 3 highlights in Jonah chapter 3: 1. God is sovereign in our salvation; He initiates salvation. Even when we forsake God, his mercy and love does not give up on us. 2. God is in control. He is ever ready to redeem the repentant. Jonah was restored to usefulness. 3. Jonah is called back to this great task. When God calls us there are two things that could apply to us: The greatness of the task and the gravity of the message.
Questions we look at in this teaching from Jonah chapter 2 are:
- What do we know about the historical Jonah?
- What do the Minor Prophets indicate about Jonah?
- What does the book of Jonah say about Jonah?
- What does the prayer itself reveal about Jonah?
Pastor Craig shares 12 reasons why Jonah drew near to God with his head and not his heart. This teaching will challenge you to move from head to heart prayers.
3 big ideas that Pastor TC discusses in this passage:
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God loves his enemies
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God shows surprising mercies to all kinds of sinners
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God is Sovereign - controlling history and events of the world.
Patrick Mbugua shares his journey as he teaches from Ephesians chapter 6 on why believers must be alert of Satan's schemes/wiles. He explores the different pieces of the armor of God and how it helps us fight the enemy from his deceptive, condemning, and camouflaging ways.
Marriage, Christ, and the Church is the theme in Ephesians chapter 5 and it encourages Christians to follow/imitate God by walking in love, light and wisdom. Believers are not only the bride of Christ but also members of his body, flesh and bones. This message is also connected to the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew chapter 25.
This passage in Ephesians chapter 4 highlights 3 things; 1. What should the church of Christ be like? 2. What is the church of Christ to look like? 3. What is a biblically-ordered church? It also looks at what criteria is to be used to be part of a church, and what are the roles and responsibilities of Christians in the church. We are to be prepared, be involved, be built up and become mature.
Three steps we should take when we come to God.
I. Be humble before God
II. Be filled with God (vv. 16-19)
III. Be mesmerized by God (vv. 20-21)
Let us press into God more and more and see how he glorifies himself through us. When we take these steps, He gets ready to do great things among us as a church.
PRAYER: O God our King, by the resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ on the first day of the week, you conquered sin, put death to flight, and gave us the hope of everlasting life: Redeem all our days by this victory; forgive our sins, banish our fears, make us bold to praise you and to do your will; and still us to wait for the consummation of your kingdom on the last great Day; through the Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
The Prince of Peace grants peace to everyone who will submit to Him (Jesus)
The Peace of God is not deterred or hindered by the situation you are in.
Surrender to the Prince of Peace crumbles the wall of separation and enmity.
We have unending access to the great riches of God’s grace, realized through the work of Jesus Christ, and revealed to us by God’s Holy Spirit. Murrell Francis
In Romans chapter 6, Paul asks Christians questions that bear answers. We too need ask ourselves the same questions and make the choice to live under God’s grace and not under law. Only because of the grace of God can we live a holy life. * GOD’S GRACE IN YOU PRESUPPOSES HE IS YOUR LORD * GOD AS YOUR LORD PRESUPPOSES OBEDIENCE TO HIM * OBEDIENCE TO HIM PRESUPPOSES PURSUIT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS * PURSUIT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS PRESUPPOSES ABHORRENCE OF SIN IN YOUR LIFE BECAUSE GOD’S GRACE IN YOU EMPOWERS YOU AGAINST SIN
Jacob’s background was that of “grappling - heal grabber” right from the womb. His life was filled with lies, deception and tricking people; he spent his life trying to make it better, trying to pass other people, trying to be greater than other people, and trying to bless himself until he wrestles with God and finally finds rest from living a life full of fighting. Genesis 32:22-30 reveals the GOSPEL that points to Jesus; Out of His love and out of His grace, Jesus came down to wrestle with Jacob. People are spending their life wrestling against God instead of resting in God. What about you: Are you wrestling against God or are you resting with God?
There is a way to pursue sanctification - spiritual growth, and it’s by holding fast to the head of the Church, who is Jesus Christ. Two main points in this teaching to help Christians hold fast to Jesus and to grow are: 1. Know yourself 2. Know God’s will
This message’s hope is to help us trust not only God’s appointed ends for our lives, but also the surprising, mysterious, unexpected ways that He employs to get us to those ends.
The book of Esther points to the fact that God will deliver and comfort his people. In this concluding message, we see that some of the servants of God like Daniel in Babylon, and Joseph in Egypt had a common defining characteristic - their identity which determined the stand they took and the decisions they made. To be a “Mordecai” or “Esther”, you must know your identity. - When your identity is in God, His presence is in you. - When His presence is in you, your life/choices are for Him. - When your life/choices are for Him, the enemy is against you. - When the enemy is against you, God’s victory is your reward.
Esther had chosen not to make her request to the King Xerxes at the first banquet and whatever the reason, she delayed it for one more day. It turned out to be significant because God was in it. If this Book of Esther shows us anything, it shows us that God manages the affairs of men, without their knowledge, down to the details. All these seemingly unimportant details – the timing of the events, the things they do and the words they say – were very instrumental to the outworking of God’s plan.
Everything happened according to God’s way and time. That’s the providence of God! That’s the amazing workings of God in our lives. Can we not trust Him?
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
God sees in totality and works all things (many parts) together for the good of those who belongs to Him.
In the book of Esther chapter 4, Queen Esther is seen as a saviour and hero for her people, the Jews bringing them deliverance from the enemy. Scripture reveals that in that time, and even today Jesus:
- Is a greater King
- Has a greater Kingdom
- Has a greater purpose
- Is a greater Saviour
*Part one of the sermon series "The Unseen God", is an introduction to the Book of Esther found in the Old Testament. This first part of the teaching highlights the following:
1. Hear the Message -* Everything points to Christ
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Face the Million Dollar Question - Where is God in all this?
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See the Masterplan - God is working in EVERYTHING to uphold, guide, and care for you
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Accomplish The Mission - Faithful Missional Presence in a Faithless culture
A stronghold is where darkness reigns, it is a thought pattern alien to the Word of God, it is anything in us strong enough to keep us from becoming like Christ in a given area of life, it is a Command Post, which the enemy works in the surround areas, it is a system of logic that is tied to a lie and used to perpetrate the purposes of the enemy in our lives and it is an act of rebellion much like cancer in the human body.
Strongholds can come from 3 sources:1. It may find Root in the Experiences of our past
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It may be rooted in the Events of our past
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It may come from a System of error (or lies) Within
We have weapons at our disposal:1. The Blood of Jesus Deals with Our Sin - I John 1:7
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The Cross of Jesus Deals with Our Flesh - Romans 6:6
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The Name of Jesus Deals with our Enemy - Philippians 2: 10-11
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The Faith of Jesus is Our Shield Against the Darts of our Enemy - Ephesians 6: 14 – 16
Doubt is something that happens to every believer. We are not exempt from it, and we doubt God’s love, His power, His laws and also our own salvation. Doubt is the Devil’s age old trick, and we see that in various scriptures in the Bible.
Satan was using doubt with Jesus in Matthew 4, in ways not very different from how he tempts us or how he did Israel, the 3 temptations are patterned after Israel’s wilderness, and Adam & Eve.
In each temptation he casts doubt on whether God can be trusted?1. Should we live life obeying God and waiting for his promises, or take charge and get what we want now?
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Can we simply trust that God is good, without him proving it to us?
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Will God bring the future he’s promised or should we settle for the earth before our eyes now?
In Matthew 11 vs 1-11 we look at what causes John to Doubt Jesus:Difficult Circumstances
Unmet Expectations
Limited Perception
And here’s how to deal with doubtThe Word of God
Sacrificial Obedience
The Promises of God
In part one of the teaching on the armor of God, we were reminded that we are in a battle and God has called us to be soldiers/warriors. In this second part of the teaching, we learn that the armor of God begins and ends with Jesus. The command for the whole armor of God is that we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. God gives the believer a full set of equipment, and He sends us out into battle with everything we need at our disposal. Prayer is also a part of the armor.
The full armor of God that Christians are called to put on comprises of the Belt of Truth, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Gospel of Peace, the Shield of Faith, the Helmet of Salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit.
The enemy’s battlefield is our mind, and this where the battles are fought. Ephesians 6:10-20 reminds Christians about the reality of the spiritual battle and describes the protection available to them. Putting on the armor of God in spiritual battles, helps us STAND firm in God’s truths, and helps us FIGHT the enemy.
If someone were to ask you to tell them the beginning of the original Christmas Story, the story of the first Christmas, where would you start?
This Christmas message is concluded with who the "Word":
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The Son is God Because He was “In the Beginning” (v. 1a),
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The Son is God Because He is “the Word” (v. 1b),
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The Son is God Because He is “from the Father” (v. 14b),
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The Son is God Because “the word became flesh” (v. 14a) What does this tell us?
God has become one of us and His name is Jesus.
This quote by John Piper best describes the glory of God, “The glory of God is the manifest beauty of His holiness. It is the going-public of His holiness. It is the way He puts His holiness on display for people to apprehend it.”
Questions to ponder on from this message are:
Q. Are you making room for Jesus? If you are, He will come in.
Q. What is the “manger” of your life?
Q. What location/situation are you being removed from so that God’s purposes maybe fulfilled in your life?
Q. Do you apprehend the beauty of Jesus’ holiness?
Are you distracted this holiday season? In Luke 10:38-41, Martha was distracted by much serving but Mary chose to take time to pause and listen to the Lord.
Here are some questions to ask ourselves during this holiday season: Am I welcoming – am I hospitable? Have I become calloused and cold to the pain and suffering around me? Are your priorities in order? Are you sitting and listening or distracted, troubled and anxious? Are you bothered at others because you are doing much serving and they seem to be doing nothing? Have you chosen the good portion this Holiday Season?
An easter message at Christmas time?! This message is relevant no matter the season. Through this teaching we learn the perspectives of Jesus, the disciples and the donkey. We are chosen, hand picked by Jesus’ grace and for His service. But like the donkey, we are tied to the cords of our past, addictions, inadequacies, background and other excuses that keep us from answering to the call or word of God.
Jesus rode on the donkey to Jerusalem and on this ride he chose to be worshipped and welcomed as a King. Would you allow Jesus to set you free from the "cords", be available and willing to go with him where he leads you and bring glory to Him? We are made of infinite worth when we respond to His call.
This teaching gives a content of what we will be doing as a church in terms of membership. A call to commitment to the church as a follower of Christ requires submission to biblical membership. Acts 20:28-32
The four points highlighted in this teaching are:
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Appeal to the Elders of the Church
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Highlight on Membership
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Why belonging to a local Church matters
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The Centrality of the Word
The Holy Spirit is a Divine Person. He is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son and is of the same essence. Yet He is also distinct from them. He is called our helper, He helps Christians testify Jesus to the world.
The Holy Spirit is
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Our Helper - John 14:16, 15:26
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The Spirit of truth - John 15:26; 16:13
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The Spirit of God - 1 Corinthians 2:11, 3:16 & 17, Ephesians 4:30, Ezekiel 36:27; Psalm 143:10, 139:7; Genesis 1:2; Zechariah 4:6; Isaiah 61:1
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Is Holy - John 1:33, 14:26; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Romans 5:5, 15:13; Luke 1:35, 3:21, 11:13; Matthew 1:18,20, 12:31, 28:1;, Mark 13:11; Acts 1:8, 2:4, 33, 38, 4:31, 5:32, 9:31, 10:47, 11:15, 13:2, 10:47, 19:5-6; Ephesians 4:30; Jude 1:20-21; 2Peter1:21; Titus 3:5
What is Repentance?
“It is turning from and a turning to” “metanoia” – to think again, to change one’s mind
Matthew 21:28-32 – Two sons: “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place – unless you repent.”
Revelation 2:4,5
Genesis 3: The Fall
Where are you?
This is a personal and inescapable question today.
Are you hiding and afraid because of sin? Are you covering up?
Are you running away?
Do you think God doesn't see you?
Christians have something to say (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
Christians have something to stand on.
Christians have something to show.
Christians have something to share.
Christians are saved.
Christians are secure in their salvation- forever.
Why should our Christianity begin with the person of Christ?
Christianity is Christ.
Once we accept that Christ is God, many of the arguments and discussions we get into with other religions begin to untangle. Jesus was always advancing, always pointing people to himself, ”I am the way, truth and life" “Anyone who comes to me has eternal life"
The Character of Christ
Napoleon Bonaparte wrote: “Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne, and I have founded empires. But on what did we rest the creations of our genius? Upon force! Jesus Christ founded his empire upon love.”
Suicide feels awkward to talk about. How do you bring it up? What do you say? The myth that if you talk about suicide, it will give people the idea and open the door for them to self-harm. In Kenya (April, May, June) over 480 persons died of suicide. Church is/should be leading in meeting our core needs to belong, find purpose and have hope. Mary brings a very timely message that helps bring awareness of suicide and how the church can help both individually and corporately.
Mary Gitau, is the founding director at Centre for Suicide Research and Intervention (CSRI). Mary is also an elder at the Lavington Vineyard Church and sits in the National Counsel for the Association of Vineyard Churches in Kenya
This teaching concludes the sermon series that we have been on recently - Joy in the Lord is the theme in the book of Philippians and we have been discovering what rejoicing in the Lord means. In Philippians chapter four we discover more on what joy is and also draw a step closer to having this joy. The Lord is near is a vital part of the verses in this chapter. Knowing that God's presence is always with us, do we then live lives that reflect the nearness of God?
Murrell Francis shares some things that will help challenge us consider the nearness of God. The nearness of God demands Christian community vs 2. The nearness of God demands joy vs 4. The nearness of God demands the pureness of our thoughts vs 8&9
Philippians chapter 3 verse 15 instructs, “All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.”
This passage calls Christians to maturity in the Lord. Maturity begins with a humble awareness that you haven’t arrived. Philippians 3:12
The last few verses in Philippians chapter 3 considers some imperatives on how to grow in that maturity - A way of thinking, living and the posture of our hearts.
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Passionate pursuit of a Greater knowledge of Jesus
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Cultivate a wonder of the Gospel
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Know what you have in Christ
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Avoid enemies of the Cross & Follow godly examples
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Live on Earth, as a Citizen of Heaven
Many of us at some point have got stuck in life, and been paralysed with “the what ifs”, fears and lies which have kept us from moving forward. Philippians chapter 3 verses 10 to 16 gives us practical tools that help us move forward in our journeys. In these verses we learn to pursue, press on, forget what is behind, look at the goal, make progress, learn to speak the truth and walk in God’s grace and mercy. Verse 10 and 11: “To know Christ” - The knowing of Christ is through experiencing Him. “The power of his resurrection” - The power of God is to help to us overcome any resistance, and it works in conjunction with fellowship with Him. “Fellowship of sharing in his sufferings” - The suffering is a joint participation where we become more like Jesus. Verse 12: “Pressing on to take hold” - The pressing on is to pursue Christ-likeness. Verse 13: “But one thing I do” - forgetting what is behind (cutting the cords of the sins of the past) “Straining toward what is ahead” - Stretch forth for intimacy with Jesus Verse 14: “I press on toward the goal” - Keeping our eyes on the goal which is to become more Christ-like Verse 15: “All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things”. Verse 16: “Only let us live up to what we have already attained.” - Attained – to arrive at, to reach – making progress / Live up to – let us continue on the path
In the recent Tokyo Olympics, a Kenyan runner, Ferguson Rotich finished the race and won a silver medal. When asked by a journalist how he managed to finish despite being far behind in the race, Furgoson said that towards the end he remembered that he was meant to be on the podium receiving his medal so he sped up to finish. All believers in Christ have a race to finish and we do that through the power of the Holy Spirit and not in our own strength. In Philippians chapter 3, Paul speaks of a heavenly “podium” and the journey to that podium requires the joy of the Lord and working out of our salvation. Paul’s explains that human achievements or credentials, no matter how impressive cannot earn a person salvation or eternal life, but through faith in Christ and God’s grace.
In Philippians chapter 1 verse 27 Paul instructs all believers to conduct their lives in a manner worthy of the gospel. In part four of this teaching, the living out is emphasized through the Bible passage, Philippians chapter 2 verses 12 and 13.
Three things highlighted in this passage are:
- Command to obey is given - *“...work out your own salvation”
Here are some personal and practical ways to work out your own salvation:
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Call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
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Continue to receive God’s grace
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Continue to manifest the fruit of the Holy Spirit
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Continue to go before God in prayer
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Continue to not reject the assembling of ourselves for worship - gather for corporate worship
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Daily reliance on God’s Word and meditating on it day and night*
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Condition for obedience is given - “*not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling”
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Your obedience must not be based on a person
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Work out your salvation all the time
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Salvation belongs to The Father, you cannot lose it. We work it out from love and reverence of God.*
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Consolation is given, for those who are striving to live that life - “…*for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”
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The reality of His working; God is holding on to you (for nothing can separate us from God)
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Our focus should be to please God and bring Him glory
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God’s working does not suspend or negate our own working
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God’s working should be the basis of our trust and effort*
This is a sober message shared by Pam Luper. She found new perspective and picked new tools that helped her find hope in her struggles and in the dark places.
These are some of the powerful tools that God offers us and we are encouraged to faithfully use them:
- Putting on the full armour of God - Ephesians 6:11-17
- Remember that Jesus gave his life blood for us - Hebrews 2:14
- Prayer - 2 Samuel 22:3-4
- Be watchful of your thought life and what you are feeding your mind - Philippians 4
- Speak life - Proverbs 18:21
- Put God first in your live (above your fleshly desires) - Matthew 6:33
- Put aside the weight of your sin - Hebrews 12:1
- Continue to put God’s word in your heart, mind and mouth, and use it.
Being of one mind and living in unity is Christ's desire for the church. Unity is not just harmony and people getting along but it is a reflection, a response and an indicator of our personal relationship with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Christians are unified by truth, truth is a person - Jesus. This unity is not from a shared emotion but a shared experience that we all have in Christ.
"Our primary reason for gathering together as a church, is a shared experience that we have in Christ Jesus - it is what unities us".
3 points highlighted in this teaching are:
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Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ - Philippians 1:27-30
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Live in unity - Philippians 2:1-2
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Learn from the example of Christ’s humility - Philippians 2:3-11
In movies like the Gladiator, we watch how fighters stood firm when they were in the battlefield, they had to stand together to remain strong and to live. Philippians chapter 1 verses 27-30 highlights these words:
Vs 27: “whatever happens” - “conduct” - “in a manner worthy” - “stand firm” - “in one spirit” - “contending” - “one man” - “for the faith of the gospel”
Vs 28: “without being frightened - “for it has been granted to you” - “to believe on Him” - “but also to suffer for him”
vs.30 – “since going through the same struggles”
These highlighted, important words and instructions are given by Paul to believers so as to content/stand firm for the faith when life brings trials and sufferings, and to conduct oneself in a worthy manner. In this short section of Philippians, the most effective way to win every spiritual battle is by living a life worthy of the gospel.
Have you heard yourself or other people say, " I just want to be happy?". Many people describe happiness as the primary goal of their lives. There’s nothing wrong with happiness, of course, but the book of Philippians challenges Christians to pursue something else: joy. There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is contingent on our circumstances...happiness is fickle. Joy is internal and based on our relationship with our Heavenly Father, his character and nature. He is the anchor that helps us navigate this life and its seasons. Joy comes from following the example of Jesus.
Just as we have thieves in the natural, we also have thieves in the spiritual realm that try to rob us of our joy - 1. Circumstances 2. People 3. Things 4. Worry
Joy is not just an individual choice—it’s something that we should practice with other believers. And when we rejoice together, we are a testimony to the world of the work of God in our lives.
Edgar King expounds on who the church is, why it exists and what its purpose is. The church's main purpose is to point the world to Jesus. In Genesis 1:27-28, God appointed man to be "trustees of His estate" and in Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus passed on his passion and mission to his disciples/followers. We are called to be missional; to be outward in loving in our communities, cities and to be the non-anxious presence in an anxious world by participating in God's work... to bring God's Kingdom on earth.
This message is a testimony of what Pam and Pastor Craig have gone through in the last 7 months. Throughout this challenging time they have had fear but also found strength and courage to wait on the Lord and trust Him. Before the recent surgery their hearts broke when they received a concerning report from the doctor but God gave them a rhema word that ignited both Pam and Craig’s faith. Pastor Craig shares 4 words that have helped them during this time, and can help anyone going through fears and doubts: 1. Swing - use God’s Word as a bat to hit all that comes against your faith 2. Surround - surround yourself with community 3. Stand - stand firm in faith and on God’s word 4. Submit - submit to God’s plans and will
This message encourages and challenges us to bring our lives back to the target, the focus, the center who is Jesus Christ. We are to focus on the center, aim for the center and practise at the center. Jesus is our all in all, from the book Genesis to Revelations, every testimony, every prophesy and every word points to Jesus. Randy Coates shares 4 ideas of Jesus as the center:
- Jesus at the center is the word.
- Jesus at the center is a person.
- Jesus at the center is the truth.
- Jesus at the center is the message.
Psalm 73 was written by Asaph who was the music director of the tribe of Levi. Asaph was pouring out his heart to God and also struggling to see God’s justice as he saw the wicked prosper. In each verse of this Psalm we can relate to Asaph’s struggles and doubts, and also see the injustices of our societies. But like Asaph, when we choose to enter God’s presence (sanctuary) we get the big picture. When we go to God in prayer and worship, eternity breaks into our temporal perspective. Everything changed as Asaph entered the sanctuary; God became his focus, not his problems. We are reminded of God's attributes, character and power in this Psalm. In challenging times, be encouraged, stay faithful and trust God for the eternal wealth He has promised.
This teaching concludes the sermon series on "Four Pillars" and through this series we've learned what the true church of Christ looks like. God lives in a community of three we know as the Trinity (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). The Bible says we are made in His image and thus we know God made us to live in community and it is part of our identity as believers and also a part of life of the Church. The Book of Acts chapter 2, verses 41-47 is the essence of what community is. This small group of people brought the Roman Empire to it's knees, and through the power of the Holy Spirit these men channelled the move of God it into community. Here's how this passage communicates the essence of community:
CONVERTED TO CHRIST - Acts 2, vs 41
DEVOTED TO BIBLICAL TRUTH - Acts 2, vs 42
DEVOTED TO ONE ANOTHER - Acts 2, vs 42
DEVOTED TO THE LORD’S TABLE - Acts 2, vs 42
DEEP REVERENCE FOR THE LORD - Acts 2, vs 43
EMBRACED DIVERSITY - Acts 2, vs 44
All Christians are called to be Jesus’ witnesses to the world, through the power of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 Jesus said to his disciples, “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.”
Living a missional live is based on 3 things that Paul mentions in Colossians 4, these are:
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Pray - Effective missional living begins with faith-filled prayers. Colossians 4 verses 2 & 3
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Live - Missional living requires not only proclaiming God’s Word but living it out too. Colossians 4 verses 4 & 5
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Talk - When our speech is filled with grace and seasoned with salt, we are enabled to give answers to the world. Colossians 4 verse 6
All Scripture points to Jesus, He is the Word/Truth, and God reveals Himself through Jesus. Jesus is God’s language. When God wants to communicate, He does so through His Son. Everything in the Old Testament points to the reality of Jesus, and is also the fulfilment that Christ Jesus is the head of the Church. The Holy Spirit glorifies and magnifies Jesus.
The Word of God without the Holy Spirit leads to legalism, and the Spirit without the Word leads to fanaticism. John 4:23 reads "True worshippers will worship God, the Father in Spirit and in truth." The pillar of Word and Spirit is fundamental in the church and in this teaching we learn how the Word and Spirit work hand in hand in the life of the church.
The Four Pillars: Prayer, Word/Spirt, Community and Missions are all build on the Foundation who is Jesus. In this teaching we look at prayer as the first pillar. Prayer is one of the four fundamental pillars under girding the life of the church. Prayer is real conversations with God. The ACTS prayer model is a simple guide for the prayer life of Christians. A - Adoration: a deep love, respect, worship and veneration. Matthew 6:9 C- Confession: acknowledging and saying what God says about our sins to God, and then celebrating the forgiveness we have received. Matthew 6:12 T - Thanksgiving: the expression of gratitude, especially to God. Matthew 6:13 S - Supplication: to plead or ask for something humbly. Matthew 6:11
In continuation of the teaching, "Moving Forward" as a church, we look at the Bible passage, Philippians 3:12-21, where the Apostle Paul gives us 6 things that will help us move forward:
1.A reality check on our humility - Philippians 3 v.12
2.We press on - Philippians 3 v.14 It is in the present tense signifying not just an event of pressing on but a continually pressing. 2 things to press on: a)To take hold of that which Christ took hold of me b)To press toward the goal
3. Singleness of mind - Philippians 3 v.13
4. A heart of continued growing and living up to what we have already obtained – Philippians 3 v.15
5. Follow Godly people - Philippians 3 v.17
6. Knowing where you belong - Philippians 3 v.20
In this first part of the teaching on moving forward as a church we are challenged to measure success biblically, but what does that look like for the body of Christ? The pandemic has surely challenged our beliefs and faith. We want to stay in our comfort but God calls His church out of fear and to move forward in faith. We can move forward and measure success individually/corporately by repenting of our "idols", returning back to the Lord and allowing God to redeem and unshackle our imagination, to believe what the church can become, and turn the world upside down. Acts 17:6, Acts 4:13
George Bernard Shaw quote reads, “There are those that look at things the way they are, and ask why? I dream of things that never were, and ask why not?” Will we chose to step out in faith and boldness, and march forward with courage and confidence?
This teaching is a conclusion of the 5 part series of the study of the book of 1st Peter. In challenging and trying times we can learn how to live an effective Christian life through Christ’s strength and remaining dependent on the Spirit of God, thus discovering how Jesus takes care of us as we learn to lean on Him.
6 things we can draw and learn from 1 Peter chapter 5 verses 6 to 11 are:
- Be Humble - 1 Peter 5:6
- Be Dependent - 1 Peter 5:7
- Be Alert - 1 Peter 5:8
- Be Tenacious - 1 Peter 5:9b
- Be Prepared - 1 Peter 5:9b-10a
- Be Assured - 1 Peter 5:10b-11
The readings from 1st Peter chapter 4 guide the conversations that Seth Johnson has with Geoff and Linda Simpson who went for a mission trip early this year to Nepal.
Peter writes a lot about suffering in the book of 1st Peter. He seems pretty clear that we should be prepared to suffer for Christ. Geoff and Linda share examples of suffering that they saw in Nepal that will help us to understand more clearly what this text of Scripture looks like in the 21st century.
1 Peter 4: 7-10 reads, "The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
We all can live missional lives even in the midst of a pandemic.
Called to Blessing
8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; 9 not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For “He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. 11 Let him turn away from evil and do good;
Let him seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
The main points brought out in part 3 of this sermon series are:
The call to be a blessing is only answered by those who know they have been CHOSEN BY GOD INTO HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT.
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When you are called to be a blessing, it does not have to be going well with you because it is not you doing the blessing but GOD THROUGH YOU.
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Being a blessing will be rejected by those who oppose God and His followers.
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You must be a blessing because your IDENTITY IN GOD demands it of you.
This teaching is an encouragement and challenge to grow through the storm. Like bisons/buffalos we are to face the storm head on and come out on the other side of the storm.
In 1st Peter chapter 2, Peter highlights ways you can grow through a storm:
- Take in the word of God - 1 Peter 2:1-3
“A genuine godliness and growing in Christ is always marked by a love and delight for God’s word.” Ps:119: 24, 35, 47, 48, 72, 97
Three qualities why the Word is so necessary for our growth:
a. The word of God is imperishable/forever.
b. The word of God is living.
c. The word of God nourishes us.
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Establish what your true foundation is - 1 Peter 2:5-7
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Know your true identity - 1 Peter 2:9
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Discover your purpose - 1 Peter 2:9, 10
The first few verses from the book of 1st Peter chapter one simply translates, “The mess of our past does not disqualify/disable us from christian service.”
Peter was a man that Jesus restored and his messy past did not stop him from following and serving Jesus. Peter wrote to the scattered church - scattered by persecution and isolation, bringing them encouragement through the living hope in Christ; God's commitment to all believers and the promise of their citizenship in heaven.
There is power in the blood of Jesus! Revelation 12:11 says, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”
A SCARLET CORD RUNS FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION. THAT CORD IS THE BLOOD OF JESUS!
What does the blood of Jesus mean for us today? His blood: - Redeems us - 1 Peter 1:18,19 - Brings us into fellowship with God - Ephesians 2:13 - Makes peace with God - Colossians 1:20 - Cleanses - 1 John 1:7 - Gives us power over the devil - Revelation 12:11
This is an encouraging word from Psalm 34. Like David who wrote this psalm, may we focus on God and choose to praise Him in trying times.
In this teaching we learn what the gospel is, its nature, what it produces, what makes it offensive, and why we desperately need the gospel and what its implications are. As someone once said, "The gospel is pardon for yesterday, power for today, and promise for tomorrow."
The four points of the gospel that best help us remember and understand what it is, are:
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God - that God who is holy made us to enjoy Him and to love Him, and He blest us.
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Mankind - Mankind sinned and we eclipsed God out of our lives, we turned against Him.
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Jesus - God sent Jesus Christ to rescue us from our sin.
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Our response - Is to be in fellowship with Him and enjoy Him forever.
Ananias and Sapphira, a married couple in the Book of Acts, chapter 5 have been caught in deception and hypocrisy towards the Holy Spirit. Sapphira lacked judgement and aligned with her husband in sinning against God. Seth Johnson brings an understanding of the cost of conspiracy and crossing the boundary lines of lying especially when doing God's work.
In Part 2 of the sermon series "Have you heard any Good News lately?" Pastor Craig teaches on the power of salvation. The power of God's salvation moves peoples hearts and brings transformation. We become ashamed of the gospel when we don't allow it to transform us.
Romans chapter 1 v. 16 Paul says “For I am not ashamed of the gospel...'
“it is the power of God for salvation” - The gospel does not rest on us but through the power of God, believers are conduits for God's power when we yield to His power.
“for everyone” - God's plan to accomplish the Good News was through people.
“for those who believe” - Those who respond through the deeds of Christ.
In the Book of Acts chapter 4, we learn how Peter and John are given a platform to share the gospel. They were two ordinary guys who made a huge difference in God's Kingdom through their courage and boldness given to them by Jesus as they spent time with Him. We too have been given a "platform" through which we can bring God's light and truth to people.
Questions to reflect on:
1.How is your relationship with the Lord and are you making time for Him?
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Is Jesus Number One in your life?
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Are you willing to be used through the "platforms" He has given you?
Pastor Craig kicks off the sermon series on the Gospel - The Good News and why it matters. 3 main points that he brings out in this teaching are:
- It is God’s Gospel – Romans 1:1
The gospel begins with God. The gospel is not about us! The truth of the gospel does not depend on the church, or human traditions, or any denomination. There is no other gospel than the one revealed in scripture
- It is the Gospel of Christ – II Corinthians 2:12
Not only does the gospel begin with God, it CENTERS upon the Lord Jesus Christ – who he is and what he accomplished in his life. The only way to know God is through the reconciling death of Jesus Christ.
- It is ”my gospel” – II Timothy 2:8
It is not enough to know the truth, you must believe the truth. It is not enough to possess the truth, the truth must possess you. Paul called it “my gospel.” The gospel is good news, the best and most important news in the world. It is good news because it comes from God. It is good news because it tell us what Jesus has done for us. It is good news because it is absolute truth. It is good news because it can change your life.
From the very beginning God wanted a temple to dwell in; we are His temple where he desires to dwell. This thought should challenge us how we live for Him. In Acts Chapter 3 , Peter and John are going to the temple and are at the gate 'Beautiful' where they see a beggar whom they heal through the power of Jesus. They acted in faith and obedience to the work of God.
So in reflection to how the early church functioned and was led by the Holy Spirit, Pastor Craig challenges us through the following questions:
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Do you allow the Holy Spirit to use you?
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Do you believe God can do signs, wonders and miracles?
After the powerful coming of the Holy Spirit; the day of Pentecost, believers were given the gift of tongues.
Seth Johnson takes us through this teaching from the book of Acts chapter 2 where Peter addressed a crowd that had gathered and heard the utterances of the different languages. This is where Peter shared the "first gospel" that was not only for the Jews but for the whole word. The significance of the first sermon was that it was the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophecy as mentioned in the Book of Joel.
Towards the end of the teaching, Seth shares what it means to call upon the name of the Lord/Yahweh and be saved. Calling upon the Lord is done through repentance of sins followed by baptism.
The four elements of following Jesus are:
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Apostolic teachings
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Fellowship
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Breaking bread together and
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Prayer
Jesus' followers were promised the Holy Spirit after His ascension, but why do we need the Holy Spirit and His power? Why is this power important? In this teaching, Pastor TC goes deeper into the Book of Acts to expound on the purposes of the Holy Spirit's power and what this power produces in the Church and in Christians.
The purpose of the Holy Spirit’s power:
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Helps us to come up with a posture of prayer, worshipping and assembling together.
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It is a warning
What the Holy Spirit’s power produces:
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It comes with a deep unwavering conviction.
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It reproduces in the church and Christians an uncontested devotion and boldness.
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It produces spiritual wisdom.
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It produces a powerful witness of God.
Culture is a word for the 'way of life' of groups of people, meaning the way they do things. The original Greek word for honor means worth or value, or respect.
In this teaching, Pastor Craig shares God's heart for honour and through various scripture we see how the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit bring honour to one another. As believers we can also learn to cultivate, built and maintain a culture of honour towards God and one another, through humility and pursuing righteousness.
Dive in with us as we kick off the midweek teaching today with Pastor Craig challenging us with questions concerning the Church from the book of Acts.
Questions to reflect on:
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What I’m reading in the Bible is not what I am experiencing in the church or my own life. Where is the disconnect?
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If the early church turned the world upside down in every area, why are we not transforming our society both economically and spiritually?
Waiting is part of everyday life, but what does it mean to wait on the Lord? In reflection and connection to the recent teaching on prayer, waiting is what you do after you have prayed. In this teaching, Patrick Mbugua helps us discover what waiting on the Lord looks like and what our response needs to be. Waiting can move one from despondency and hopelessness to a place of assurance and confidence in the Lord. What you do in the waiting is key to the person you become. Waiting is the process of learning who God is and becoming who God wants you to be once you are surrendered to His purposes.
One of Jesus' disciples asked Him to teach them to pray and He responded, " This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Luke 11:1-3 As Pastor Craig delves into this model of prayer, we learn to adapt these prayers as believers and they help guide our prayer time and center our prayers on God.
In continuation of last week's message on starting the year with God's peace, we learn that in trusting God and keeping our minds steadfast on Him, He promises to keep us in perfect peace. This promise of peace comes through Jesus, the Holy Spirit, His Word, by our obedience, and by prayer and praise.
2020 was a year full of anxieties on many levels, for many people, and their faith was shaken. Today, we kick off the year 2021 with a teaching on overcoming anxiety. In this teaching, Pastor TC brings out the focal points of anxiety, the types and sources of anxiety. Jesus offered His Peace to all believers as the path out of anxiety and gave promises that we can hold on to that help us remain anchored in Him in all seasons.
In this last teaching of the year, Pastor Craig reviews the year 2020 as a church and looks into the year ahead, 2021.
This baby had the power to change everything. Through the teaching, Pastor Craig brings 7 points on how Jesus' coming changed everything. This baby:
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Is eternal.
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Is the master Architect.
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Is the source of life.
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Is the reason we question our origin, our purpose and our destiny.
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Offers rebirth.
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Is the ultimate expression of all that God is and all that God knows.
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Is full of both love and faithfulness, of both grace and truth.
In the teaching today, Pastor Craig explores different scriptures in the Bible that revealed Jesus and fulfilled His coming as the Messiah. God's purposes and promises prevailed through Jesus' coming.
Pastor TC brings the Christmas teaching on Mary's song. He considers this song from Luke 1: 46-56 a "Psalm" of the New Testament. In this passage Mary captures the statements she is making of Jesus/God being mindful, holy, the judge, merciful, faithful to His covenant and one who keeps His promises. Lessons we learn from Mary’s song are: Worship Costly Faith Humility
Pastor TC kicks off our Christmas series titled "Have yourselves a very Merry COVID Christmas". In the midst of a pandemic God knows when to show up... The message today is from the book of Luke chapter 2, highlighting the incarnation of Jesus Christ and the hope this grand miracle brings to the "weary world".
Seth Johnson brings the teaching from the book of Judges, chapters 13 to 16. Through the story of Samson, we learn man's depravity and both the sovereignty of God and the redemption for mankind's sin.
Proverbs 30: 5 & 6 “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar."
God's word is perfect, it cannot not be added to or subtracted from, and we experience this through our faith in Him, believing and trusting His words.
Proverbs 29:25 "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." Two things in this psalm is fear and trust. We usually worry about what others say or think of us but what is important is what God thinks of us and in trusting Him we are safe and sheltered.
Proverbs 29:23 "Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor."
This psalm is a reminder that everything we have is from God, we didn't earn or deserve it and that walking in humility will bring us honor. #Proverbs #WordInSeason
Pastor Craig concludes the teaching "Moving On to Maturity". In this teaching we learn what it means to be equipped with the APEST gifts and know their full function in the church so that we may become mature followers and experience the fullness of Christ in every area of our lives. Believers are equipped to do works of service and so that the body of Christ may be built up.
Proverbs 29:2 "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." Pastor Craig shares the benefits of walking in righteousness of God verses the pain of wickedness, when the wicked rule. #Proverbs #WordIsSeason
Psalm 1:1-3 describes the condition, a state of thriving of man when he does not walk in the path of wickedness. It describes the life of the man whose is blessed, and whose life is flourishing and prospering in all that he does when he delights in the Word of God.
Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no revelation/vision, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom's instruction." This is a famous bible passage that has been used to describe God's revelation/vision for the church. #Proverbs #WordIsSeason
In part 2 of the devotion "The Power of God's Word", Pastor TC describes the refining effect of God's word from Jeremiah 23:29
In Proverbs 29:17, Solomon tells parents “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.” When we discipline we don’t break their spirit but their will, their rebellion, and once this is done there will be peace in the household and to the parents. #Proverbs #WordInSeason
The message today points to all that Jesus is, He is the “I AM…APEST” Ephesians 4. Brad Matlack reminds us that through the recent teachings on “Moving on to Maturity - APEST”, Jesus needs to remain the focus. The APEST roles are not reserved for only those who are in ministry or for Sundays but for all believers and for everyday life. Brad brings these five roles to life, teaching how we as believers can fulfil them through the passions/gifts God has put in us to extend His kingdom here on earth.
Proverbs 24:29 "Do not say, “I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.” This passage is a reminder that we need to forgive everyday. Let us love not just in word but through our actions. Forgiveness helps us walk in the light.
In this episode we are focusing on the fourth Commandment from Deuteronomy 5:12 "Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God commanded you..." This commandment is relevant today, in that we find our rest in God both in providence and sustenance of life. True rest is only found in God. #TenCommandments #SongsandScriptures
In today's word we look at Proverbs 24:19 & 20 "Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked, for the evildoer has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out." As believers we can rest in the hope that we have a door of future hope through Jesus Christ.
In part 2 of the devotion on the Ten Commandments, Pastor TC takes us through the second commandment found in Deuteronomy chapter 5 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below." The core of this commandment is for man not to try and find purpose or identity in anything else other than God.
Physical houses are built by the wisdom and understanding of man. In the book of Proverbs 24 verses 3 and 4 we see that spiritual houses are built with God’s wisdom and established with His understanding.
This week we have been exploring the questions God asks Adam and understand the meaning and heart behind those questions.
As we look at Genesis 3, Pastor TC reveals how the enemy condemns and tempts us. When the enemy condemns, he plays up God's wrath and plays down His love and when the enemy tempts, he plays up God's love and plays down His wrath.
We all battle with the voice of condemnation, just as Adam did in Genesis 9 when he told God he was "naked" but God asks him "Who told you that you were naked?" Adam felt uncovered, unloved by God; thus his condemnation. In this episode, Pastor TC beckons that we don't hide but to return to God and accept his gift of love that is free and unearned.
In the second part of the question that God asks Adam "Where are you?" we learn that God is a redeeming God. His signature move is redemption, and that is how he responds to sinners.
In this episode, Pastor TC reviews Genesis 3:9 where God is asking Adam the question "Where are you?" This question reveals that God is a seeking God.
"5-Fold Ministries / APEST / Ascension Gifts are to be used to elevate ONLY Jesus! They are not to be taken as a license for a title or to elevate a person".
In Part 4 of the teaching on maturity, Pastor Craig expounds on the characters, functions and dysfunctions of those who have the Apostolic gift in the body of Christ.
Pastor Craig shares from Proverbs 10:30-32. Walk the path of wisdom no matter what you are facing in life. Stand on God’s Word and His promises.
In today's devotion Gareth Jones shares on Hate & Love. These are 2 forces that exist in this world and we all experience.
Pastor Craig shares from Proverbs 10:17-21. Today, let the meditations of your heart and the words of your mouth be pleasing to the Lord. Let wisdom be on your lips and let God lead you by His Spirit.
Pastor Craig shares from Proverbs 10:11 - 14. You can measure a person’s character by their speech. Your mouth will speak what the heart is full of. What is in your heart?
APEST – “All Shuka – No Cows”
“He who descended is also the one who ascended far above the heavens, that he might fill all things. And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry,” Ephesians 4:10-12
In part 2 of the teaching on APEST, Brad Matlack shares an American phrase “All hat – no cow” and brings it home to Kenya - “All shuka – no cows” through which he challenges us to check where we are living a false/counterfeit life through false teachings that are related to spiritual darkness.
Also, when we understand and are fulfilling our APEST (Apostles, Pastors, Evangelists, Shepherds and Teachers) roles we will experience supernatural things.
Proverbs 8:13 “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech”. In today's devotion Pastor Craig teaches us to cling to what is good and hate evil. Humility kills the pride and arrogance that evil brings.
In the book of Proverbs, Solomon gives us practical wisdom that helps us not to go down the wrong path. As Pastor Craig shares from Proverbs 8:6-11, we learn how precious wisdom is for our hearts.
Pastor Craig shares the word from Proverbs 7: 1-5; this passage gives practical wisdom and insight for godly living.
APEST – “All things”
“He… ascended far above the heavens, that he might fill all things. And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry,” Ephesians 4:10-12
In this teaching, Brad Matlack takes us through the book of Ephesians and brings out 2 main points:
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Macro and micro overview of Ephesians – essential to understand chapter 4. This will help us answer how APEST applies to the church today.
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Theological gaps in our own culture and worldview about APEST. How has COVID brought some of this to light?
Have you have ever wondered what ticks God off? Proverbs 6:16-19 lists 7 specific things that the Lord hates. Pastor Craig gives a brief summary of each of these things on the list and urges us to pray as we see these in ourselves and in others. #Proverbs #WordInSeason #KVCOnline
Pastor Craig gives an update on regathering as a church family and also brings us a word of encouragement to continue to be the body of Christ, daily.
In today's teaching on maturity Pastor Craig takes us through various scriptures that encourage us to be childlike. We learn that maturity is parallel to humility. These are the marks of maturity:
A mature person:
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Is able to keep long-term commitments
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Is unshaken by flattery or criticism
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Possesses a spirit of humility
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Decisions are based on character, not feelings
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Expresses gratitude consistently
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Knows how to prioritize others before themselves
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Seeks wisdom before acting
Pastor Craig brings the devotion from Proverbs 4: 24-27
“Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the[a] paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” #Proverbs #WordInSeason #KVCOnline @kvckenya
Pastor Craig brings the devotion from Proverbs 4: 20-23
“My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Pastor Craig brings the devotion from Proverbs 4: 18 & 19
“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.”
In continuation of the teaching, moving on to maturity, Pastor Craig expounds on the signs of maturity -- being completely humble and gentle;
being patient, bearing with one another in love and making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
We also, learn the 7 essential truths for the foundation of unity in the Church -- one Body, one Spirit, one Hope, one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one God and Father. Ephesians 4:4-6
Pastor Craig brings the devotion from Proverbs 3:27-28
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”— when you already have it with you.”
Pastor Craig encourages us not to have fear….from Proverbs 3:25 -26
“Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared."
Pastor Craig shares on wisdom and understanding from Proverbs 3:21-24
“My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble…”
Pastor Craig brings the word from Proverbs 3:11-12 “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke…”
Do you know that you are what you love? In today's devotion Pastor TC shares from Psalm 37:4 “God wants to reorder our loves and our desires”
In continuation of the devotion on Lord, teach us to love, Pastor TC reflects on the staggering statement in the Bible “...but do not have love, I am nothing” from 1 Corinthians 13:2
Patrick Mbugua concludes the sermon series on the Holy Spirit with the teaching on being aligned with the Spirit. "When you align yourself to the Spirit of God in your life, then life takes on a whole new meaning"
Pastor Craig brings the word from Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…”
Pastor TC concludes the the Lord’s Prayer from the verse, “…your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” #SongsAndScriptures #KVCOnline
Pastor Craig brings the word from Proverbs 3:3-4 “let love and faithfulness never leave you…” Love and faithfulness are key part of who we are.
Pastor TC shares the second part of the Lord’s Prayer from Luke 11, “Our Father who art in heaven...”
Pastor Craig continues the word from Proverbs 2:10-12 highlighting the words: wisdom, knowledge, discretion, and understanding. #Proverbs #WordInSeason #KVCOnline
Pastor Craig teaches on what it means to be filled by the Spirit of God and also what it does not mean, giving illustrations that help understand the our emptiness and the importance of being filled.
“The Christian life is not difficult; it is absolutely impossible, apart from the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Apart from me, you can do nothing.
John 15:5b
Pastor Craig brings the word from Proverbs 2:1-5 “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding…”
Murrell Francis brings the devotion from Psalm 63 - a psalm of David when he was in the Judean wilderness. #SongsAndScriptures #KVCONline
Pastor Craig continues to share from Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge…” #Proverbs #WordInSeason #KVCOnline
Murrell Francis continues the devotion from Psalm 42. An encouraging word for those experiencing depression, anxiety and hopelessness.
Starting this week Pastor Craig begins the Word in Season from the book of Proverbs. God's word affects our behaviour when we obey it. Today he shares from Proverbs 1:1-6
Pastor Craig concludes the sermon series with tongues and interpretation of tongues. In this teaching we look at the similarities of Paul and Luke’s writings on tongues and the purpose of this gift. 1 Corinthians 12, 13, and 14
Pastor Craig takes us through the third part of the teaching on Spiritual Gifts - Utterance Gifts
Pastor Craig encourages us to ask of the Lord this question: “Where do you want to meet with me today”? #GodYearnsToDrawNearToYou #HeLovesWithAnEverlastingLove #WordInSeason #KVCOnline
Pastor TC highlights 3 things that the enemy does to keep us from trusting in God. #SongsAndScripture #KVCOnline
Pastor Craig encourages us to ask of the Lord this question: “Where should my focus be”? #FocusOnTheLordIsRightAndTrue #WordInSeason #KVCOnline
James Chapter 1 encourages us to count it all joy when we fall into various trials. Pastor TC helps bring an understanding of the role and purpose of suffering. #SongsAndScripture #KVCOnline
Today's question: “What Kingdom works do you have for me to do?” Pastor Craig shares from John 14:12 The amazing thing with our journey with the Father is that He is always inviting us to participate with Him and walk with Him.
Pastor Craig brings this timely word in a challenging season where people are fighting in the struggles life brings and even fighting God. Psalm 46:10 encourages us to be still - to lay down our arms, surrender and acknowledge God as the one and only God. In other words it means to STOP fighting!
Pastor Craig challenges us to ask the Lord these two questions: “Where are you in all that is going on and what are you doing, and what are you saying?"
In this first episode of Songs and Scriptures, Pastor TC teaches on the Identity of God as our Father from Luke 12:32, and Psalm 23:1
Craig Luper takes us through the Bible to explain who the Holy Spirit is and what He does. This will encourage you.