Heartland Alliance Church Podcast: Recent Episodes
Heartland Alliance Church
Followers of Jesus must walk in wisdom so that we can take advantage of every opportunity to tell, or point, someone towards Jesus.
In a world of injustice and meaningless work, being rooted in Jesus makes us act in justice and work on purpose.
Restart healthy communication. Restart out-serving one another. Restart healthy connection.
What is the better message about Jesus? Let a better message dwell in you!
Let a better message guide our teaching and building up. Let a better message be your celebration and gratitude. Let a better message be our unity. Will we let a better message dwell in us and come out of us?
Permit peace to rule in you. Ruling peace calls you to communal unity. Peace and unity bear fruit in grace-growing gratitude.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart. Let His word fill you richly. Let everything reflect Him. Lead with gratitude.
Jesus loves us the way we are, but He loves us too much to leave us the way we are; He wants us to be just like Jesus. What is God's Part? What is our Part?
Vision Statement: A community rooted in Jesus, led by His Spirit, living out His mission.
How could you lean in to be more rooted in Jesus? How could you lean in to be more led by His Spirit? How is Jesus calling you to lean into His mission work?
Take Jesus up on His invitation. Remember your baptism. Confess your love and tell your story! Practice resurrection together.
Youth ministry is so important here at Heartland. Youth are not just the church of tomorrow, but the church of today.
Why Refuge? (Ps 46:1, 2 Cor 5:17)
Why youth ministry? (Mat 19:13-15, 18:3)
Church of today vs Church of tomorrow (Mat 28:19-20)
Our life needs a reno. When we are raised and hidden with Christ we begin to practice putting off and putting on, allowing Christ to renovate us into His image. Being rebuilt means we put away a few things and are renewed. It also means intentionally letting go.
The church is not a place for people who have it all figured out. It's a community of people who are being rebuilt, learning, growing, and working through these very areas (in Colossians 3:5-7) with honesty and grace.
You have been raised with Christ! What is holding you back from seeking Jesus above everything? Prayer starts with Jesus. Seek Jesus above everything to get his perspective on anything.
It is ingrained in us to slip back into measurable rules and regulations to find success over destruction caused by self-indulgences, but we can only truly overcome by belonging to God and letting Him form us.
Being led by emotional experiences and pride leads us to exchange our relationship with God for worthless idols, and to division and a breakdown in relationships. Christ promised fullness in our abiding connection to Him and to His body.
This sermon takes a look at Colossians 2:16-17 and addresses the pressure of religious performance, the problem with shadows, Jesus as being the reality, the danger of legalism, and living in the freedom of Christ.
Spiritual circumcision is identity received. The identity received in spiritual circumcision is inward and spiritual, complete, divine, realized by our thorough identification with Christ in His death and resurrection, brought to fullness in spiritual baptism, and received by faith. Then, our water baptism is identity embraced.
We all desire to have purpose and to feel alive. We're drawn to ads, reels and content that tell us what satisfies and is fulfilling, but they come up empty. The only place to find fullness of life is free and available. It's the fullness of God for us in Jesus.
Have you ever heard something that sounded wise, but turned out to be quite foolish and dangerous? Followers of Jesus must guard themselves against worldly influences that would draw them away, choosing instead to be rooted in the truth found in Christ.
Reality 1: Dangers are closer than they seem.
Reality 2: God is closer than He seems.
We need to be on guard and on our knees.
God's Kingdom and plans are way better than anything we could ever dream up for ourselves. Real power and direction are found when we move ourselves off of the centre of our heart, and we are filled with the Holy Spirit of the Living God.
Move from consumer to contender.
Jesus is the Champion; His victory is our victory. How can we run the race set out for us? With these points: throw off, get free, and fix your eyes. We can move from consumer to contender when we allow the Lordship of Jesus to lead us.
Where does our craving for acceptance come from? True acceptance is available through Jesus! Embrace the rewards of intimacy with Father God. We are being formed by something – let's choose to be formed by intimacy with our Father God. What might be keeping you from intimacy with God the Father?
Rooted in Christ. Built up in Christ. Established in the faith, just as you were taught.
Longing for peace in the past. Real peace is available when Jesus is in charge. Longing for peace in the present. The cross of Jesus is the instrument of lasting peace. Longing for peace in the future.
Christmas has its roots in hope. The root of hope in Isaiah is ___________. Life comes to dead things when Jesus is involved. The root of our hope is not in the physical alone but in the ___________. Hope in God's justice brings peace. Christmas and the second coming bring hope. Hope changes how we live today.
Salvation addresses our greatest need, it came at a great price, and it brings the greatest blessing. We must continue.
Colossians 1:21-22: 21_______ _______ _______ alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. 22 _______ _______ he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation -
To be a committed follower of Jesus, we must drop the excuses, learn the lessons, and make a difference.
Reconciliation - what does it mean? The fullness of God in Jesus brings total reconciliation, shaping our attitude towards the world and our hearts for others. Jesus is God's fullness on earth; reconciliation comes because Jesus was God; reconciliation means something needs reconciling; He is reconciling "all things" in heaven and on earth; reconciliation is only possible through His blood; the world is being reconciled so let that change us. The fullness of God in Jesus brings total reconciliation, shaping our attitude towards the world and our hearts for others.
The background - why Paul wrote what he wrote; Christ is the Head of the Church; Christ is the Beginning and the Firstborn from among the dead; Christ is supreme in everything; re-centering on Christ.
All of our hope should be in the Creator rather than the created. Jesus is the Creator and Sustainer. We can grow in worshipping the Creator rather than the created. Live with purpose praising Him and rest in Christ trusting Him.
What if unseen forces are enslaving you? Freedom isn't just found in the absence of chains; it's discovered in the embrace of a relationship with Jesus. Activate the finished work of Jesus for your ongoing freedom. You are beloved, redeemed, and forgiven! Celebrate your true freedom and identity today! Practice gratitude to root yourself deeper into the goodness of God. Freedom isn't just a gift; it's an invitation to walk.
There are so many ways to pray: The Lord's Prayer, praying Scriptures back to God, and corporate prayer.
The journey of the gospel begins with sharing and bears fruit in those who receive it, it moves through faithful gospel messengers, and is motivated by Spirit-filled gospel love.
When rooted in the hope stored in heaven, we have confidence to act in faith and love. Be a person rooted in hope - hope reserved for you in heaven is future; hope reserved for you in heaven is present; when love is a difficult choice; when faith is on shaky ground. Let hope in.
To be rooted is to be an active part of Jesus' community. Being rooted in Jesus' community provides a better awareness, brings true identity, gives real belonging, invites needed contribution (we want and need you!), and should point to the paradise we all long for.
Being rooted means abiding in Jesus. Being rooted requires removing what hinders. Being rooted results in bearing fruit.
What are our barriers to prayer? Look at examples from Elijah's life. What about you? Prayer is God's invitation to keep putting our weakness into Jesus' hands to release His power in us and beyond us. What is the transformation that the hands of Jesus could bring about in you and beyond you?
Praying together is the essence of life in Christ. Share your prayer, and offer prayer for those who share. Praying together is the path to restoration. There is power and unity in praying together because it is the essence of our life in Christ.
Oaths require action; our action reveals character; our character will determine our judgment.
Patience according to the Bible; Patience that is godly; Patience in situations beyond our control; Patience in the face of service; Patience in the face of suffering.
Are you waiting well for yourself and your own growth? Are you waiting well for God's Kingdom?
When is it imperative that we judge? When is our judging a sin? Why is judging improperly a sin? How do we beat the devil at his game?
A healthy relationship with Jesus is a humble relationship with Jesus. Humility invited Jesus, it creates sobriety, and brings honour.
We’re in a war. Wake up to the war we’re in. The devil is a powerful enemy, BUT remember, Jesus has already won the war! His victory is our assurance and our strength. Bow down to stand up. Bow down and stand up in the power and love and sacrifice of Jesus for you. Bow down to Jesus so you can see the devil’s schemes. Bow down to Jesus to receive His Holy Spirit’s power. Bow down to give up your fierce independence. Bow down to stand up to stay in the fight. Bow down and dream of the day when the war will be over.
Did you know that in Christ you are dearly loved, fiercely pursued, tenderly cared for, securely protected, without fail provided for, part of His Body the church, you are intimately close with Jesus? This is through Christ! We, as the people of God, make mistakes; we wound one another and we hurt God, but our bridegroom Jesus Christ will never leave us or forsake us, for He is faithful.
Do you know who you are (identity) and do you know what your purpose is? External actions are the fruit of deeper internal desires. If not controlled, internal desires will control you. We must ask, “Thy will be done, not my will be done.” If you know who you are, then your actions, reactions, indeed your whole life will flow from that identity.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Wisdom is infinitely valuable, extremely practical, the master craftsman, and is life itself. Jesus is wisdom. Jesus is infinitely valuable, extremely practical, the Master Craftsman, and is life itself.
The crowd had expectations of a great King. The power of unmet expectations and crushed desires results in made-up expectations of Jesus which we need corrected to find His goodness and power.
What is my motivation for following Jesus? We are not saved by what we know, say, do, or who we surround ourselves with, but we are saved through Jesus Christ alone. Having a divided heart will harden you against Jesus. Repentance is the only way to deal with sin. Jesus is waiting for you to turn your face towards Him, and receive mercy, grace, and fullness of life.
Caiaphas had his reasons for rejecting Jesus, probably similar reasons for why we may be denying Jesus His rightful place in our lives.
POSITION(Jn 11:49-53)
FINANCES(Mat 21:13)
FAMILY TIES AND PEER PRESSURE(Lk 14:26)
RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
We all, as teachers, need God's transforming power to tame our words. We need God's transforming presence and grace-filled togetherness.
Genuine faith in Jesus Christ is the key to salvation. Genuine faith in Jesus Christ will prompt action. We need to pray for genuine faith and need it to prompt us into action.
Celebrate God's mercy miracle. Use mercy generously. Beware of losing mercy. Break down barriers to mercy. Make mercy your mission and release your judgments to Jesus. Let's live mercy-filled lives!
The Royal Law is a mirror for our hearts. Breaking the Royal Law is breaking the whole Law because the whole Law is the Royal Law. Come to Jesus to be washed clean. Be transformed and empowered by the Holy Spirit to reflect God's heart in attitudes and action.
When God changes your plan it may be harder but He's trying to get your attention and wants you to trust Him because He has a better plan for you.
The bible is our primary weapon against deception and we must read it, know it and do what it says.
To have a responsive heart to the Word, we must open our ears, control our tongue, and control our emotions. Remove the filth, welcome the Word, and take action.
God will test us, but He does not tempt us. Temptation is not sin, but it exposes our sinful nature. Testing is difficult, but can be a path to greater joy.
Our God redeems the now and rules the future. Being the blessed now; receiving the crown of life in the future; confidence in the 'Rewarder'. You can experience strength for today and a bright hope for tomorrow through the rewards that God gives.
True wisdom comes from God alone and comes as guidance and counsel on how to react in difficult situations.
We can pass the tough tests of life with pure joy and strong perseverance because of the goodness of Jesus Christ.
Kicking off a new year: Read James. Pray for wisdom and depend on the Holy Spirit. Identify and use your spiritual gifts. Volunteer. Find and meet a specific need in your community. Activate your small group. Give generously.
When God calls you to it, He will equip you to do it. The Holy Spirit moves in unexpected ways. The Holy Spirit brings unity.
It's not about what you know; it's about who you know.
If you lack wisdom, ask the Holy Spirit.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal truth.
The conviction work of the Holy Spirit has a three-fold approach: sin, righteousness and,
judgment.
The Fruit of the Spirit is horizontal in expression due to our vertical connection with God. Lack of fruit; counterfeit fruit.
Jesus models the Holy Spirit's ministry. Learn to say YES to the prompts of the Spirit. Understand how we may be saying NO to the prompts of the Holy Spirit. How do I receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit in my life?
The Holy Spirit is truthful in an age of deception, good in an age of sadness and personal in a detached world.
The people we surround ourselves with has a huge impact on the quality and direction of our life.
We can expereience genuine joy with God's help, with the help of others, and when we grow to help ourselves.
060Timothy, a model of genuine concern and faithfulness; Epaphroditus, a model of sacrifice and courage.
Participation with fellow believers through biblical stewardship is partnership with God.
We can grow a generous biblical stewardship by enriching our receiving as one who is humble, grateful, God-fearing and faith filled.
Contentment is very personal. It is something we need to learn. Jesus is our source of contentment.
Four practices can help you focus on heaven here now: STRIVE, ELIMINATE, QUESTION, and INVITE.
Looking back on God's faithfulness and provision over the last 20 years and looking ahead to something even better.
Our tendency is to put our confidence in ourselves. Our confidence is ONLY to be found in Jesus Christ. Rejoice in the Lord; serve (worship) God by His Spirit; boast in Jesus.
God's mercy is for all people and is too vast to remain in us, but overflows to those around us.
To build relationship with God we must first understand our sin, God's remedy for that sin and, that He has something better in store for you.
The pursuit and embrace of God is full of amazing benefits, as Jesus brings us to our Abba Father God.
Positional and practical sanctification; God's part, our part; personal and relational implications.
Are we learning from Jesus, in fellowship with the Holy Spirit and sowing seeds of unity?
God is a God of order. Godly order in His church - pastors, small groups, elders, and congregants.
Why was Joseph God's choice? Joseph was a righteous man, he was faithful, he was gentle and compassionate; Joseph's choices came with a cost; Joseph loved and cared for the body of Christ.
Broken silence; the significance of Bethlehem; unlikely messengers; the Heavenly proclamation; joy amidst the ordinary; the application of great joy.
Mary was familiar with God's voice.
Lk 1;28, 19:26; Mat 5:6,8; Mk 4:24-25.
Mary had an attitude of expectancy.
Lk 1:37.
Mary was willing to be interrupted.
Lk 1:38, 46-54, 2:35; Duet 22:22.
Will you give Jesus your hopeless list today?
Hope is expectation and it is action. The object and basis of hope determine the strength and certainty of the act of hoping. The biblical reality of hope is based on Almighty God Himself - who He is, what He is like, His word, His promises and how He acts in the world. We can have a certain and sure hope because of Jesus.
When you realize Jesus brings unexpected hope to unexpected places, you can become hope full in a hope less world and that hope to unexpected places.
Lord Jesus, I'm asking You to bring Your hope to this person, place, or situation today.
We grow to be like Jesus when we give our body as a living sacrifice, shake off the worls by shaping our mind and allow God to work.
Paul's dedication (v21)
(Col 3:3, Gal 2:20, Phil 3:7)
Paul's Dilemma (vv 22-24)
Paul's Decision (vv 25-26)
My Funeral Plans:
- Cremation or plot burial?
- Favourite Music
- Favourite Scripture or Reading
- Message or Preacher
- Slide Show
- Suggested Speakers: Eulogy/Tribute
- Ushers
- Other
Paul's source of strength is prayer, the Spirit of Jesus Christ, and confidence from a healthy relationship with God.
How is Paul or how is the Good News? The Good News will not be deterred - everyone here; believer confidence. The Good News advances despite... No Greater Joy.
Start with my heart
(Ps 51:17, 78:8; 1 Pet 3:15; Mat 6:19-21,24)
Give willingly and generously
Experience God's joy
Fellowship in common identity in Christ. Fellowship through participation with Paul. Fellowship through a shared future hope of God, faithfully completing what He had begun in them. Fellowship together starts with loving in the right way, continues through priorities, and culminates as it bears good fruit which glorifies God and brings unity in the Church.
Level One Gratitude - God, I'm thankful for ...
Level Two Gratitude - I'm thankful even though ...
Level Three Gratitude - I'm thankful because ...
Following Paul’s example, we should speak words of blessing and grace to one another, thank God for one another, and pray for one another … with JOY.
We are made; we belong; we're called out; it stretches us.
We're centered on Jesus; we're focusing on a purpose that really matters.
Battle #1 - the devil (vv 16-18)
Battle #2 - the world (vv19-24)
Battle #3 - the flesh (v25)
Victory #1 (v26)
Victory #2 (vv 27-34)
The Author of Philppians
(Phil 3:5-6)
Joy In All Circumstances
(Jam 1:2-4)
A Surrender That Satisifies
(Phil 1:21)
Be ready! (vv 2-4, 24-27, 32-37)
(Mat 24:3)
Pay attention! (v 31)
(Mat 24:37; Gen 6:5, 11-12; 2 Tim 3:1-5, 4:1-5)
The second coming. (vv 24-25)
(Rev 8:10-12, 6:16-17; 1 Thes 4:16; 1 Cor 15:52)
You can experience a real, fruitful, vibrant and flourishing life through Jesus.
You can be outwardly fruitful by prayer, sacrifice and forgiveness towards other people.
You can be inwardly vibrant with bold faith in God.
You can be flourishing at the roots because you belong to your heavenly Father.
Hell is very real, very serious, and we need to avoid it at all costs. Assess, admit and act.
As we near the end, there will be birth pains (deception, wars, earthquakes, famines, pestilence), persecution and we need to learn how we are to respond.
Marriage is God's idea.
(Gen. 1:26, 2:18, 21-24)
Divorce is not God's intention.
(Mal 2:13-17, Mat 19:9)
Remarriage should be approached with caution.
(1Cor 7:8-9, 12-16, 39-40; Mat 19:10-11)
Growth starts small.
(Mat 10:42)
Growth takes time.
Growth requires faith.
(Mat 17:20, 1 Cor 3:6-7)
The temple will be judges (vv 1-4) (Mat 24:3)
The end will be marked by deception (vv 5-6, 21-23). (1Cor 6:9-10, 1 Tim 4:1)
Understanding deception. (Gen 3:1-6)
Satan casts doubt on God's word (v 1).
Satan uses people to spread lies (v 1). (2 Cor 11:3-4, 13-15).
Satan takes advantage of ignorance (vv 2-3)
Satan tries to get us to remain independent and self-sufficient (v 5).
The cure for deception. (prov 9: 8-9)
Jesus is God; He transcends all who oppose Him and is far greater than anything we can imagine Him to be. And we see from Mark 9:1-13 that Jesus is indeed who He claims to be - the Son of God.
06In our seemingly impossible situation...
Jesus knows all circumstances. (Ps 147:5, Mat 10:29-30, Is 46:9-10, Ps 139:4, 1 king 8:39)
Jesus always has a plan. (Jn 6:5-6)
Jesus` way will often surprise us. (Is 55:8-9)
Jesus not only provides, He gives an abundance. (Mk 6:42-43, Ps 132:15, Jn 6:35)
Marriage is God's idea. (Gen 1:26, 2:18, 21-24)
Divorce is not God's intention. (Mal 2:13-17, Mat 19:9)
Remarriage should be approached with caution. (1 Cor 7:8-9, 12-6, 39-40; Mat 19: 10-11)
God's provision is intentional, purposeful and abundant. (2 Cor 9:8)
God's mercy is patient and undeserved. (Mat 21:41, 43; Act 4:11-12)
The torch has been passed to us.
We are to love God, the one and only true God, with our
whole heart, soul, mind and strength. Love your neighbour as yourself.
Jesus' greatness outshines everything else and everyone else. (Mat 11:11)
Your greatness shines the brightest when Jesus shines the most through you.
Prepare the way for Jesus' greatness by looking at your life. (IS 40: 3-5)
Prepare a pathway for the greatness of Jesus to shine through your life.
Greatness comes when we bring some stuff low. What must come low in oyur life?
Greatness comes when some things rise up in your life. What must rise up?
Greatness comes when you face the challenges in your life. What challenges are really there? (Mat 11:1-6)
Greatness comes when you keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Will you prepare a pathway for the greatness of Jesus to shine through your life?
6The mark of a true follower of Jesus is not knowledge, power or attendance, but it is a transformed heart.
Knowledge
Pharisees
Power
Herod/Herodians
Attendance
Disciples
Transformed Heart
(Jn 6:35)
Exercise your faith.
Faith sees opportunity.
Faith persists.
Faith responds.
Faith asks.
Faith saves.
Faith follows.
The Holy Spirit comes to bring His power and presence. The work of the Holy Spirit can be diminished or driven out of our lives. How do I receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit in my life?
In this passage in Mark, we learn about the tithe, the offering and extravagant or sacrificial giving.
God doesn't want your money; He wants your heart.
Do you have your money or does your money have you?
Our Choice: The Jesus we want is the One who is easy to follow. The Jesus we need is the One who is worth following at any cost.
Our Response: Repent. Remember.
If Jesus is God then He has to get all of your life. Abandon all of your masters and embrace the Lordship of Jesus: internal, external and spiritual masters. Next step: sign up for and attend Encounter God.
To fully submit to God's will, we must first fully abandon our own will. God's plan will probably have difficulties, but if you obey, God's purpose will be fulfilled. God usually calls us to things that are bigger than our humanity can accomplish. The Son of man will help us to overcome our humanity if we as Him.
Serving others is never beneath you. Serving others is never about who they are; it's about who Christ is, and how He wants us to follow His example. Humility is seen in not only how we serve others, but how we allow others to serve us. When you see how Jesus loves and serves you, you'll love and serve like Jesus.
Being great isn't about expecting to be served; it is about serving to expectation: each of us is created to do good things, serving is discovering and Jesus-like or not so Jesus-like.
What is our conscience, how does Satan attack it and how do we get and keep a good conscience?
Satan attacks our will with pride, with pride so that we ignore the best path for life, we fight back with the humility of Jesus and we can choose humility with Jesus' help.
Jesus takes care of an unclean spirit, because He has authority and gives us spiritual authority
The war we're in happens to everyone, it is in two realms, it is between two kingdoms, it is won by Jesus, and it can be fought with weapons God gives us.
Sabbath is a gift from God; Jesus is the author and fulfillment of Sabbath; Jesus is the source of Sabbath restoration and new creation.
Who did Jesus say He is? What did Jesus' family say about Him? What did the religious leaders say about Him? Who do Christians say Jesus is?
Acknowledge the pressure. Pray for power in pressure. Walk through pressure with God's power.
What do we learn about Jesus, what is our response to Him, and by what should our lives be marked?
Jesus' need to be baptized; Jesus needed the Holy Spirit, and Jesus needed the affirmation of the Father.
A straight path in life means appropriate the Good News, be baptized and immerse yourself in the Holy Spirit
Serving together... Takes intentionality and effort. Fosters enthusiasm and creativity. Results in more than we often anticipate. Creates an environment for Jesus to shine.
Serving together... Takes intentionality and effort. Fosters enthusiasm and creativity. Results in more than we often anticipate. Creates an environment for Jesus to shine.
What is fasting? Why is it effective? Fasting helps push back the darkness. Fasting helps us draw near to God. Fasting helps when we seek revelation or direction.
What is fasting? Why is it effective? Fasting helps push back the darkness. Fasting helps us draw near to God. Fasting helps when we seek revelation or direction.
What are your barriers to healing? Does Jesus want to heal you? Can Jesus heal you? Will you come to Jesus for healing? Will you talk freely about the goodness of Jesus?
What are your barriers to healing? Does Jesus want to heal you? Can Jesus heal you? Will you come to Jesus for healing? Will you talk freely about the goodness of Jesus?
Why is there sickness? What are causes of sickness? What are God's purposes for sickness?
Why is there sickness? What are causes of sickness? What are God's purposes for sickness?
Jesus didn't come to patch something old; He came to offer something brand new. The true Gospel cannot be mixed with a false system of works - righteousness. Jesus didn't come to patch up your old life, but to do something brand new in you.
Discipleship starts with God calling us. Discipleship requires a willing response. Discipleship results in us investing in others.
Does God's silence mean He is weary of something? God was preparing the way. God was aboout to pout out His grace.
Life is tough for everyone; let’s make it better by praying for each other. Do you really believe that your prayers can make a difference? Do you need to grow in how you pray for people? Do you realize the benefits of praying like this?
What is the role of a leader? They keep watch and they give an account. What is the role of a follower? They need to submit, be obedient and pray for their leaders.
Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess His name.
Marriage needs to be honoured. Keep the sexual relationship pure. Realize God will judge.
God's discipline is designed to make us the best we can be. What should our response to God's discipline look like? What do we gain from God's discipline?
In order to run well, we need to throw off everything that hinders, throw off the sin that easily entangles, run with perseverance and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Encouragements - Live at peace; be holy.
Warnings - Don't fall short; resist bitterness; avoid sexual immorality; don't be impulsive.
We can have faith in the goodness of God to transform our perspective and empower us to overcome challenges, act with courage and listen for God’s guiding.
Refusing to grow brings disappointment and results in immaturity. Choosing to grow leads to a vibrant life and brings you to a place of true discernment.
Christ is able to save forever. Christ always lives to make intercession for us. This eternal intercession and eternal salvation are for those who draw near to God through Christ.
David's faith in the Lord to provide enabled him to overcome obstacles, act in the right way and hold on to God's promises.
Has somebody ever asked you to do something that seems so far beyond your understanding, comprehension or abilities?
Noah responded in obedience. Noah responded, despite the length of time everything would take. Noah followed through on everything God asked of him. Noah responded, even though the ask was far beyond his understanding, comprehension or abilities. Noah responded, despite not knowing the whole picture.
Jacob was running from God, running from Esau, running from Laban; then he was running to God and running to the finish.
The origins of Enoch’s faith; the object of Enoch’s faith—was God; the outcome of Enoch’s faith.
What made Abel’s offering a better offering than Cain’s? Why was Abel commended as righteous? How is Abel still speaking?
What does it mean to actively wait? Pray. Turn to the Scriptures. Continue to do what God has called us to do.
We live in a world that longs for peace. God brings peace through Jesus. But how can we experience peace in this world and in our lives?
What is grief? Grief is acute pain that accompanies loss. The Grave of Grief; your pain is real. You have permission to feel. Jesus is not afraid of your grief. Jesus compassionately enters your grief with you. Jesus can give you His perspective and His presence with you. Where are you? (Red Dot-Blue Dot)
Pay attention; pass the torch; hope anew; bad examples; what breaks your heart? Reality vs. Ideal
Uniting with Christ in His death and resurrection; counting ourselves dead to sin and alive in Christ; offering ourselves not to sin but to God.
Unbelief has consequences: makes God angry, leads to sin and disturbs our rest. How do we live in God’s rest? Protect your heart, be an encourager and persevere.
But we see Jesus as our substitute, our sanctifier, our brother, our Satan-destroyer and our sympathizer.
Jesus came communicating. Jesus has a lot to share with us. Jesus created this earth and sustains it. Jesus created a way that I might connect with God. Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God.
Angels are powerful beings, but Jesus is greater. Angels are Jesus’ ministers, sent to serve those who are followers of Jesus.
Jesus has a keen interest in His church. Jesus watches the church in Ephesus grow and die. So, how does a healthy, vibrant, hardworking and committed church die?
Pray at all times. Stay alert! Pray with all kinds of prayer, with all perseverance and for all kinds of people.
The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God, a defensive weapon and an offensive weapon.
Peace forms the foundation from which we fight - peace WITH God and peace OF God. Peace brings the confidence to share.
Satan, the father of lies - created by God and originated in heaven; corrupted himself through sin; fights against God and all He stands for; is already defeated.
Under my roof; honour where honour is due; but … where do children primarily learn obedience and honour? How do we honour the dishonourable? The call to children is the call to Jesus’ followers.
Fathers, do not exasperate your children. Train your children, nourish and discipline them, in the Lord. Know that your sons’ and daughters’ view of God has a lot to do with you.
A Spirit-filled wife submits to her husband as to the LORD, by responding to him and by respecting him.
A Spirit-filled husband submits to his wife by loving her, as Christ loves the church; with a sacrificial love; with a purifying love; with an attentive love; with an unbreakable love. A Spirit-filled husband submits to his wife by leading her, as Christ leads the church.
What does it mean to submit? Mutual submission and mutual benefit. Why should I submit?
Spirit-filled worship is expressed to one another, from your heart to the Lord, with thanksgiving.
Life lived God’s way means we live not as unwise, but making the most of every opportunity; not foolishly, but pursuing God’s will.
What is anger? Is anger ever justified? What if I don’t do anything about my anger? How can I deal with my anger?
Lying is a part of our old nature. Lying is a sin. Lying is a relationship killer. Lying can stop.
God is calling us to grow up mature so that we can experience more of His kingdom and not be picked off by those who come to deceive.
Christ gives certain spiritual gifts to equip followers of Jesus for building up the church, for unity and for maturity.
To what are we called? Why is unity important? How can unity be maintained? What will unity look like?
What is your calling? Are you living up to that calling? Why does it matter? The greatest calling of all.
Together we can grasp and be filled with the infinite God; because of love, for His glory.
You are no longer excluded. Now you belong: fellow citizens with God's people; members of God's household; a temple. How do we live it? Submit to the Lordship of Jesus.
God’s grace gives us a new position - in Christ Jesus; frame of mind - humility; perspective - His artistry; responsibility - good works; outlook - reconciliation
What we were/are: dead, enslaved and condemned. What we are/could be: made alive, raised up and seated in the heavenly places.
The sad reality of alienation in our world has been rectified through Jesus Christ so that we might be brought into one family.
The church works best when Jesus Christ is the head, we act as His body and we seek a strong connection.
The free will of man and the sovereignty of God may feel irreconcilable but they work together to bring great assurance of our salvation in Christ.
Who's picking whom? Don't be a Know-It-All. Destination Certainty. What else should we know?
A healthy/wealthy church has a solid foundation, power and presence, a culture of community, depth and width.
The book of John tells us we need to become followers of Jesus if we are to be a part of His kingdom family, being part of His family means we will spend eternity with Jesus, and where we will know and see our heavenly Father face to face.
The commitment he made, the opportunity he was given, the warnings he heard, the choices he made and the outcome he embraced.
In redeeming our past, God invites our love, commissions a new future, prepares us for sacrifice and calls us to follow.
Jesus prays for us that we might live in unity, see His glory, be aware of the dangers of the world and join His rescue crew.
The bigness of God; childlike faith; God and us; God, us and creation; the bigness of God.
Jesus intercedes, encourages and prays: protection, unity, give them joy, sanctify them.
Acknowledge the truth of our situation. Humble ourselves before God: plead for God's mercy, be honest about our affliction, make bold requests, give God the credit. Move forward in confidence.
History (Return to Judah, Alexander the Great, Maccabean Revolt) and the Political World of Jesus' Time (Sadducees, Pharisees).
The source of hate and persecution; past and present reality; our future; the Holy Spirit comes to help.
I must recognize the Sovereignty of God, I must understand my position in Christ, I must deal with my sin, I must live a life that's pleasing to God, I must say, "Yes" to the Holy Spirit.
To pursue the good life, we must avoid the thieves of life, embrace the Giver of life and enjoy the substance of life.
The Holy Spirit offers to be our helper, guide us, give wisdom and wise council, direct us, comfort and convict, bring hope, enhance our prayer lives, develop our character, give gifts and infuse us with His power.
There are two transformational ways the Holy Spirit is involved in our lives: Salvation and Sanctification.
Hannah had deep brokenness, wanted to be a participant in the future of God's people. In her brokenness she went to God, was bold enough to believe in God to hear, gave a vow to God, gave her son to serve God, her ongoing faithfulness to God instilled a heart of worship in her son. Her response was one of worship, thankfulness and awe.
Three key questions concerning the Holy Spirit: Why is it important to understand the Holy Spirit? Why is it important that the Holy Spirit is God? What is the Holy Spirit's primary ministry to us?
Jesus understood everything that happened was for the glory of God (His Father). Life is not without uncertainty, but Jesus is always a certainty. Jesus feels and cares deeply (for us). Jesus died and rose from the dead. Some get it and some don’t; some want it and some pass on it!
What is the Resurrection? Why is the Resurrection important? What did the Resurrection accomplish?
Hours before His death, Jesus demonstrated and spoke
of these important things - make sure you’re clean, practice a life of love, learn to be humble and serve others.
Everything Jesus said and did while on earth was to teach us about His Kingdom and how to live well in it.
It's time for the King to establish His kingdom by offering Himself as the sacrificial lamb that we might follow.
Expect to fast, beware hypocrisy, meet with Father God, share your secrets, receive the Father's rewards
We are to bring our children to Jesus, eliminate obstacles that hinder our children connecting with Jesus, teach and train, tips for the home, Night of Prayer - 30 family challenge.
Correcting with truth, connecting with neighbours, under pressure, courage in the midst of fear, standing firm, inviting into relationship with Jesus, be okay with rejection, it's a journey
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, owns His sheep, knows His sheep, calls His sheep, leads His sheep, lays down His life for His sheep.
Jesus, as the Door creates separation, describes salvation, provides protection, offers benefits, requires a decision.
Many believe in Him but they don't abide in His Word. They don't reject sin, they don't accept the truth, so they will die in their sin. But you don't have to!
John the Baptist, The work He is doing, God the Father, The Scriptures (Old Testament).
Jesus gives us the ABC's of Spiritual Conversation. Avoid the argument. Be intentional. Celebrate.
What did Jesus see and do? Would He have anything to say if He came to Heartland as an Undercover Boss?
Jesus is the God of the miraculous, working with us in meeting the needs of everyday life.
Who is the Holy Spirit? What does the Holy Spirit do? Why is the filling of the Holy Spirit so important?
John the Baptist's life teaches us that God's got a plan and it's okay to be different.
God knew us before we were born and He knows every detail of our lives. God desires to build a relationship with us and bless us for all eternity.
In heaven our thirst will be quenched, our broken will be healed and the darkness will be made light.
Christ has power and authority over the enemy, over all nations and over His followers reign with Him.
From Satan's initial rebellion against God to his eventual plan to destroy God's elect.
You can find strength through prayer and fasting to fight fear, resist temptation and fight for others.
God calls us to be a people, desperately depending on Him to move and transform hearts and lives.
There are three things that happen as the sixth seal is opened: The Great Tribulation is over, the Rapture occurs and the Wrath of God begins.
Holy Fire releases God's supernatural power, revives our hearts and revitalizes our mission.
We remain faithful to God through the power of Jesus' resurrection, enduring suffering and looking to Jesus' eternal rewards.
Revelation makes clear: The Trinity, Jesus' ministry to us, A fitting response, The Coming King.
Our spiritual lives take flight when we recognize the effect, response and our victory over sin.
Do not be unequally yoked, because we have a heavenly Father who sees us as His temple.
A godly person is know by their relationship to Jesus Christ, impact on the church, compassion for people, disdain for merely impressing people, integrity and humility.
God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.
We have treasure, but it's in a clay pot. Therefore, we are resilient in order that God might be glorified.
Opposition is very real-what is it, why do we face opposition and how do we overcome it?
Do you have a vision for what it means to live your life for God where your spiritual gifts, passions and talents can make a difference and be used?
God seems to work in those whose hearts are really open to His leading. God can only pour His life, love and power into a vessel that is ready for it. As we look at Mary's life, what is it that made her a person ready for God's call to serve?
Why was Joseph God's choice, He was righteous, He was faithful, He was gentle and compassionate, There was a cost, He cared for the body of Christ.
Spiritual gifts are an expression of the Holy Spirit. Spiritual gifts are for the common good. Spiritual gifts can be counterfeited. Spiritual gifts are to be eagerly desired.
It's what Jesus lived and taught. It's what Paul lived and taught. It's what Heartland lives and teaches.
Effective praying involves asking, understanding God's heart, loving what God loves, living righteously and receiving.
In the midst of distress, we need to call out to God, remove the barriers to His light and bask in His joy, peace and security.
God protects and bestows glory. God sustains and gives courage. God delivers and blesses us.
The kingdom of God is a present reality, a vision for the future, and the ultimate fulfillment of human history.
An effective witness asks three questions: What roadblock does God want me to remove? What is the greater reward? Where do I need to be self-disciplined?
Pursue what is good for yourself and others. Let love for others lead you and do all for the glory of God.
Would you recognize Jesus in the midst of your difficult circumstances, in the scriptures you read and study, and in the intimacy of community?
In the Resurrection, the greatest enemy was conquered, Jesus is who He said He is, He frees us from our sins, He defeated Satan, He deposits power into our being and it gives us hope.
God's work in our lives involves His grace, a solid foundation, quality materials and a final test.
In order to lead well, we need to reply on the Holy Spirit, keep watch over ourselves and be ready for opposition.
I encourage you to ponder what was given to you in Jesus Christ, what you presently possess in Jesus Christ and what will be yours in Jesus Christ.
Living well with the end in minds means to live well within your circumstances, press on and be the example to follow.
God wants to share His wisdom, for us to experience the Holy Spirit and for us to receive revelation from the Bible.
God is pleased when we put our faith in Jesus Christ, love Him supremely, trust Him completely, obey Him wholeheartedly and praise and thank Him continually.
Since we have access to Almighty God, let us draw near in intimate relationship with Him, Hold firmly to the hope we have, consider how we motivate others, and connect in community.
When your faith gets you in trouble, don't be surprised by false accusations. Be direct about the accusations, following Jesus, why you follow Jesus and what it means to follow Jesus. Finally, don't be discouraged when others' decisions do not go in your favour.
When life puts you in a pressured situation be confident, be humble, be bold and expect God's leading, His protection and His presence.
Emotional suffering and Physical suffering. Ultimately, enduring suffering is a heart issue.
God has chosen you to know His will, to see the righteous one and to hear words from His mouth.
Living by Kingdom principles means I will serve the Lord, I will love the church, I will reach the lost, I will be led by the Holy Spirit and I will give my life.
Opposition can (and will) come from anywhere, at any time. God can (and will) use a variety of ways/people to help us fight this battle. This battle is not earthly - it is spiritual - so we must be ready for it!
We'll be dangerous to the enemy when we understand the significance of what Paul did, what God did and the result.
See that no one repays any evil for evil but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.
God's will for us is that we know His joy, we learn to pray continually and that we are thankful people.
We are passionate about Easter because death is conquered, He paid for our sin, we live a new life in Christ and we will spend eternity in heaven.
Paul says: I am glad for the choices you've made and I am sad for the choices you've made.
A good leader doesn't mind conflict, has integrity and character and is a shepherd who is loving and righteous.
When God is doing a new thing some of us embrace it, some oppose it and some commit to finding out.
Persecution: Jesus spoke of it, the early church experienced it, history reveals it and it's part of our world. What is our response?
Through Philip's example, we learn to follow God's leading, make ourselves available, take initiative, be tactful and be precise.
Life is better in Small Group because it's a place to be honest, belong and regularly frequent.
The Holy Spirit produces joy. Excuses kill joy. Guilt and negativity steal joy. Affliction nurtures joy. Obedience fosters joy.
The Holy Spirit calls out to the church and to the world, encouraging us to "stay close" to receive His love.
Living in freedom is not going back to our sinful nature but moving forward and walking in the Spirit. Only then will we experience the Kingdom of God.
Freedom in Christ is freedom from slavery, freedom from fear, freedom from pride and freedom to serve.
Choosing man's way of God's way determines our spiritual heritage and the rewards of our choice.
Experiencing the power of the Spirit means we recognize deception, believe the truth and claim the promises.
Just as there was conflict in the Early Church, there can be conflict in today's church and it needs to be dealt with effectively and with Godly wisdom.
We have the privilege of choice in our lives and the decisions we make impact our lives and those around us.
The church is empowered by the Holy Spirit so when we encounter the enemy we are able to overcome him with the authority of Jesus Christ.
Based on a study of healing in the Early Church, what would the role of HEALING be in church today?
We learn what the scripture teaches us about prophecy - what it is, what its purpose is and how we are to use this gift properly.
We find examples of helping the needy in the old and new testament with the early church. What about us?
We were created to praise and God is worthy of praise because of who He is and what He's done.
The early church devoted themselves to prayer, surrendered to God's will and experienced His power and presence.
To be empowered in persecution, depend on the Holy Spirit to give you what you need, share the gospel at every opportunity and obey God, rather than man.
What expectations can we have about healing. For what purpose does God choose to heal some and not others?
We can discern the will of God when we choose to obey, wait and pray, know the Word, choose reasonable parameters and allow God to decide.
To be "attached" to Jesus, we need to repent, be baptized and be filled with the Holy Spirit.
To be filled with the Holy Spirit, present your body to Him, ask, have faith and obey Him.
To experience the fullness of God, we need to embrace Jesus, participate in His Body and walk in His power and love.
According to Acts 1:3, 6-8, the Kingdom of God was central to Jesus' teaching and it's imperative that we understand what Jesus meant and learn to live in its greatness.
In Acts 1:1-5, 8, we read about being Christ-Centered, Spirit-Empowered and Mission-Focused.
Our Heartland Community walks in community (large group and small group gathering) in order to buld a strong foundation.
Based on Judges chapter 2, we learn that our disobedience makes us accountable to God, and our wandering leads to God's discipline.
Based on Deuteronomy 32 and 34. The good, the bad and the result when a chapter is closed.
Based on Exodus 33:7-23. A bold request can be made of God when we are tenacious; when we live to serve and please him; when we are humble; when we have depth of relationship.
Taken from the book of Exodus. Spiritual gifts are given by God...empowered by the Holy Spirit...to build up the Body of Christ.