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Harvest Bible Chapel Annapolis

Sermons Podcast from Harvest Bible Chapel Annapolis

John 18-1-27

Big Idea: Even When We Are Unfaithful Jesus Is Always Faithful

Even When We Are Unfaithful:

1) Jesus is still in total control (v. 1-11)

Jesus is always in total control:
1) Jesus knows all (v. 4-5)
2) Jesus is powerful over all (v. 5-6)
3) Jesus’ word is fulfilled in all (v. 9)
4) Jesus’ purposes are accomplished in all (v. 2, 5, 11)

“From that time, Jesus began to show His disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, ‘Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.”
– Matthew 16:21-23

2) Jesus still loves without limits (v. 7-11)

3) Jesus still pays our price (v. 11-27)

“And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how He (Jesus) had said to him, ‘Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.’ And he (Peter) went out and wept bitterly.”
- Luke 22:61-62

When my flesh begins to fear:
1) Anchor and abide in Jesus’ unmatched power (v. 1-6)
2) Anchor and abide in Jesus’ unlimited love (v. 7-11)
3) Anchor and abide in Jesus’ unchanging Word (v. 9)
4) Anchor and abide in Jesus’ unmerited favor (v. 11)

Sermon Notes

John 17

Big Idea: Jesus Is Praying For You

1) Father, save them for your glory! (1-10)

2) Father, protect them in this world! (11-15)

3) Father, sanctify them with your Word! (16-19)

4) Father, unify them so more may believe! (20-23)

5) Father, bring them home for eternity! (24-26)

Sermon Notes

John 16:16-33

Big Idea: Jesus Overcame The World So We Don’t Have To Be Overcome By The World

Take Heart:

1) Through Jesus our earthly sorrow turns into eternal joy (v. 16-24)

True Joy:
1) Is born out of great sorrow (v. 20-21)
2) Is secure in Jesus (v. 22)
3) Is made full through prayer (v. 23-24)

2) In Jesus we have eternal peace in our earthly tribulations (v. 25-33)

Sermon Notes

John 15:18 - 16:15

Big Idea: In A World Of Hostility, The Holy Spirit Empowers Us To Follow Jesus Faithfully

The Holy Spirit empowers us to:

1) Endure hostility because others are worth it (15:18-16:1)

How to handle hostility Biblically:
1) Expect it (v. 18-20)
2) Understand it (v. 19-25)
3) Depend on the Holy Spirit in it (v. 26)
4) Witness lovingly through it (v. 27)

“’You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?”
– Matthew 5:43-47

“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience – among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and mind, and were by nature, children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.”
– Ephesians 2:1-3

“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ – by grace you have been saved.”
– Ephesians 2:4-5

2) Pay the price because Jesus is worthy of it (16:1-15)

“Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.”
– Acts 5:41

Advantages of the Holy Spirit:
1) Sustaining comfort (v. 6-7)
2) Supernatural conviction (v. 8-11)
3) Spiritual guidance (v. 12-15)

Sermon Notes

John 15:1-17

Big Idea: Abiding In Christ Leads To Joyful Living And Fruit Producing Through Christ

Because Jesus Is The True Vine:
1) True life comes through being united with Christ (v. 1-11)

Jesus' 7 "I Am" statements:
1) “I Am The Bread Of Life” - John 6:35
2) “I Am The Light Of The World” - John 8:12
3) “I Am The Door” - John 10:9
4) “I Am The Good Shepherd" - John 10:11
5) “I Am The Resurrection and The Life" - John 11:25
6) “I Am The Way, The Truth, and The Life” - John 14:6
7) “I Am The True Vine” - John 15:1

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
– John 10:27-30

2) Enduring joy is experienced through abiding in Christ (v. 2-17)

Abiding in Jesus:
1) Abide in His love (v. 9-12)
2) Abide in His word (v. 7, 10, 12)
3) Abide in prayer (v. 7, 16)
4) Abide in His gospel (v. 12-13)
5) Abide in His grace (v. 2, 11, 16)

3) Spiritual fruit is produced through remaining in Christ (v. 2-17)

Literary Structure: Chiasm (John 15:8-16)

A Spiritual Fruit v. 8

B Obedience v. 10

C Love v. 9-11

X Joy v. 11

C Love v. 12-13

B Obedience v. 14

A Spiritual Fruit v. 16

Sermon Notes

John 14:15-31

Big Idea: Because Jesus Lives We Can Have Peace Today And Hope For Tomorrow

Because He Lives:

1) Help is available (v. 15-27)

“In Him (Jesus) you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in Him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of His glory.”
– Ephesians 1:13-14

How The Holy Spirit Helps Us:
1) Comforts us (v. 16-20)
2) Counsels us (v. 16-17)
3) Advocates for us (v. 16)
4) Teaches us (v. 17; 26)

“For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
- 2 Peter 1:21

5) Empowers us (v. 16-17)

2) Life is eternal (v. 18-24)

3) Peace is possible (v. 27-31)

Principles of Biblical Peace (v. 27)
1) True peace is not contingent on any earthly circumstances
2) True peace is a gracious gift from Jesus
3) There is no true peace apart from Jesus

“Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in His flesh the dividing wall of hostility.”
– Ephesians 2:12-14

4) There is no need to fear for those who are in Jesus

Jesus’ Invitation To Experience True Enduring Hope and Peace:
1) Believe genuinely (v. 29)
2) Surrender completely (v. 29)
3) Remember daily (v. 26)
4) Love God pre-eminently (v. 31)
5) Rest in Jesus’ victory (v. 18-19)
6) Focus eternally (v. 18-19)

Sermon Notes

John 14:1-14

Big Idea: Life Is Full Of Trouble, But Your Heart Can Be Free From It

4 truths for troubled hearts...

Heaven is for real. (1-3)
Jesus is the way. (4-6)
Jesus is the truth. (7-11)
Jesus is the life. (12-14)

Sermon Notes

John 13:21-38

Big Idea: True Disciples Love Christ Pre-Eminently And Love Others Like Christ Faithfully

Marked By Love:

1) Love Christ pre-eminently over all (v. 21-30)

“Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?’ And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.”
– Matthew 26:14-16

“In Him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
– John 1:4-5

2) Love one another like Christ faithfully in all (v. 31-38)

“By this we know love, that He (Jesus) laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.”
- 1 John 3:16

“We love because He (God) first loved us. If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.”
– 1 John 4:19-20

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
– 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
– Romans 8:37-39

Sermon Notes

John 13:1-20

Big Idea: The Way Of Christ Is Loving And Living Like Christ

The Way Of Christ:

1) Love like Jesus (v. 1-4)

2) Humble ourselves like Jesus (v. 4-11)

“The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”
– Matthew 20:28

Humility Principles:
1) No one is above serving
2) No one is beneath being served

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
– Philippians 2:5-11

3) Be cleansed by Jesus (v. 4-11)

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
- 1 John 1:8-9

4) Serve others like Jesus (v. 12-17)

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
- Romans 12:1

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”
- Galatians 2:20

5) Believe In Jesus (v. 18-20)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 66

Big Idea: We Praise God By Proclaiming The Awesome Deeds Of God

Because God Is Awesome:

1) Come and see God’s might and salvation (v. 5-7)

2) Come and see God’s faithfulness and deliverance (v. 8-9)

“But now thus says the Lord, He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”
– Isaiah 43:1-3a

3) Come and see God’s sovereignty and sanctification (v. 10-15)

4) Come and see God’s power and care (v. 16-20)

Power-Unleashing Prayer:
1) Pray with a praising heart (v. 17)
2) Pray with a pure heart (v. 18)

“You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly to spend it on your passions.”
- James 4:3

3) Pray with an expectant heart (v. 19)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 33

Big Idea: The Steadfast Love Of The Lord Propels My Worship And Provides My Hope

Why Worship?:

1) Because God’s Word stands (v. 4-9)

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God will stand forever.”
– Isaiah 40:8

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
– 2 Timothy 3:16-17

2) Because God’s plans succeed (v. 10-12)

3) Because God reigns sovereignly (v. 13-18)

“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will.”
– Proverbs 21:1

4) Because God’s love is steadfast (v. 18-22)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 27

Big Idea: Because The Lord Is My Deliverance I Can Choose Faith In The Face Of Fear With Confidence

Because The Lord Is My Light and Salvation:

1) Anchor my confidence in the Lord (v. 1-3)

“Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and light unto my path.”
- Psalm 119:105

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
- John 1:1-5

2) Pursue the presence of the Lord (v. 4-6)

Pursuing the presence of the Lord
1) Dwell in the house of the Lord
2) Gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
3) Inquire in the temple of the Lord

3) Seek the face of the Lord (v. 7-12)

Seek the face of the Lord:
1) For guidance (v. 11)
2) For deliverance (v. 12)

4) Wait courageously for the Lord (v. 13-14)

Our confidence in the Lord:
1) We will see the goodness of the Lord (v. 13)
2) We can take courage in the Lord (v. 14)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 46

Big Idea: God’s People Can Face Trials With Confidence Because Of Who God Is

God is present with us. (1-3)
God is powerful for us. (4-7)
God is preeminent over all. (8-11)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 117

Big Idea: God’s Worthiness Compels Our Worship And Propels Our Witness

A Gospel Culture Is:

1) Motivated by God’s glory (v. 1)

“For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy. As it is written, ‘Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.’ And again it is said, ‘Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people.’ And again, ‘Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol Him.’ And again Isaiah says, ‘The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in Him will the Gentiles hope.’ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
- Romans 15: 8-13

2) Compelled by God’s love (v. 2a)

The Steadfast Love Of The Lord:
1) Saves us
2) Sends us
3) Unites us
4) Sets the standard for us
5) Must mark us

3) Sustained by God’s faithfulness (v. 2b)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 23

Big Idea: The Lord, As The Good Shepherd, Provides For The Needs Of His Sheep And Blesses Them Abundantly

1) Trust in the Good Shepherd’s Provision (v. 1)

“What Jacob & David saw only dimly, Jesus saw clearly. The Shepherd must suffer for His sheep.”
- Sinclair Ferguson

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
- John 10:10-11

2) Rest in the Good Shepherd’s Care (v. 2-4)

“Christ as the Good Shepherd cares for us along the way, sustaining us each step, in each season.”
- Michael G. McKelvey

3) Dwell in the Good Shepherd’s House (v. 5-6)

“There will never be a day in which the goodness and mercy of the Lord will not be immediately nearby.”
- Steve Lawson

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
- John 10:27-28

Sermon Notes

Psalm 96:1-6

Big Idea: Exalting God Over All Means Joyfully And Urgently Taking The Gospel To All

Declare To The Nations:

1) The Lord is our Salvation: sing to Him (v. 1-2)

2) The Lord is Glorious: exalt Him (v. 2-6)

“For ‘everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’”
– Romans 10:13-15

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
- Romans 12:1-2

God’s Greatness Compels Us To Go:
1) Because God is worthy (v. 3-6)
2) Because others are worth it (v. 1-6)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 103

Big Idea: I Always Have A Reason To Praise The Lord Because I Have Been Lovingly Redeemed By The Lord

Praise The Lord:

1) Because of what the Lord has done for me (v. 1-5)

Never Forget:
1) The Lord forgives You (v. 3)

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
- 1 John 1:9

2) The Lord heals you (v. 3)
3) The Lord redeems you (v. 4)
4) The Lord crowns you (v. 4)

“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ – by grace you have been saved – and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him I the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.”
– Ephesians 2:5-7

5) The Lord satisfies you (v. 5)
6) The Lord renews you (v. 5)

2) Because of who the Lord is to us (v. 6-19)

Always Remember (v. 8):
1) The Lord is merciful
2) The Lord is gracious
3) The Lord is slow to anger

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”
– 2 Peter 3:9

4) The Lord is abounding in steadfast love

Sermon Notes

Psalm 37

Big Idea: Fret Not Because The Lord Forsakes You Not

Fret not:

1) Don’t be troubled; trust in the Lord (v. 1-3)

Trust confidently in:
1) God’s enduring promises (v. 2; 6)
2) God’s surpassing power (v. 12-13; 22)
3) God’s everlasting protection (v. 39-40)
4) God’s sovereign plan (v. 28-29)

2) Don’t despair; delight in the Lord (v. 4-6)

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
- Romans 1:16

3) Don’t compare; commit your way to the Lord (v. 5-6; 16)

4) Don’t worry: wait on the Lord (v. 34)

Sermon Notes

PT 1/2

PT 2/2

Psalm 19

Big Idea: God Speaks So He May Be Known And Followed

God speaks generally through creation so we may know He’s there. (1-6)
God speaks specifically through Scripture so we may follow Him here. (7-14)

12 ways God uses His Word…
1. To revive us (7a)
2. To mature us (7b)
3. To rejoice us (8a)
4. To direct us (8b)
5. To humble us (9a)
6. To ground us (9b)
7. To enrich us (10a)
8. To satisfy us (10b)
9. To warn us (11)
10. To reveal us (12)
11. To protect us (13)
12. To transform us (14)

Sermon Notes

Psalm 121

Big Idea: Because The Lord Faithfully Watches Over Me I Have Nothing To Fear Daily

Lift Up My Eyes and See:

1) The Lord’s protection is constant (v. 3-4)

Why We Need God’s Help Daily:
1) We are prone to slipping (Psalm 73:1-3)

“Truly God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.”
– Psalm 73:1-3

2) God is gracious in upholding (Psalm 37:23-24)

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in His way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.”
– Psalm 37:23-24

3) We are prone to wandering (Joshua 1:7)

“Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.”
– Joshua 1:7

4) God is gracious in saving (Jude 1:24-25)

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”
– Jude 1:24-25

2) The Lord’s protection is comforting (v. 5-6)

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’ For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under His wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.”
– Psalm 91:1-6

3) The Lord’s protection is comprehensive (v. 7-8)

The Lord Will Protect Us:
1) From all evil (v. 7)
2) For all eternity (v. 7)

“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.”
– Psalm 23:4-6

3) In and through everything (v. 8)
4) All the time and everywhere (v. 8)

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Hebrews 4:16

Sermon Notes

Psalm 78:1-8

Big Idea: Testifying About God’s Faithfulness Generationally Must Be A Top Priority

Walking Faithfully With God (v. 7):
1) Setting my hope daily in God
2) Remembering the works of God
3) Keeping the commandments of God

Discipling The Next Generation:

1) Tell of Who God is (v. 4)

2) Testify about what God has done (v. 4-6)

3) Teach what God has commanded (v. 5-8)

“Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
– Deuteronomy 6:4-9

4 Questions to ask as you read a text:
1) What is the original author’s main point of the text?
2) What is this passage teaching me about God, Jesus, and/or the gospel?
3) What is a next action step the Holy Spirit is leading me to take from this text?
4) Who is God asking me to share what He is teaching me with?

Harvest Kids Camp Prayer:
1) Pray for the kids and families attending
2) Pray for all the HKC volunteers and details
3) Pray for high gospel impact and gruit

"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
– Ephesians 3:20-21

Sermon Notes

Psalm 34

Big Idea: The Goodness Of God Offers Satisfaction And Salvation In A World Full Of Great Affliction

Our Invitation To Experience True Satisfaction (Psalm 34):

1) The Lord is great: exalt Him (v. 1-3)

2) The Lord is good: taste Him (v. 4-8)

3) The Lord is God: fear Him (v. 9-16)

5 ingredients for living reverently and righteously (v. 13-15)
1) Keep your tongue from evil (v. 13)
2) Keep your lips from speaking deceit (v. 13)
3) Turn away from evil (v. 14)
4) Do good (v. 14)
5) Seek peace and pursue it (v. 15)

4) The Lord is our deliverer: cry out to Him (v. 17-22)

How to rest in God’s goodness in the middle of brokenness
1) Cry out to the Lord (v. 17-20)

“But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water .... For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: ‘Not one of his bones will be broken.’”
– John 19:33-34; 36

2) Trust fully in the Lord (v. 21-22)

Sermon Notes

John 12:12-50

Big Idea: Bandwagon Believism Misses The Genuine Jesus.

5 signs of bandwagon believism...

1) You follow Jesus for all the wrong reasons. (12-19)

2) You value earthly life over eternal life. (20-26)

3) You keep walking in the darkness. (27-36a)

4) You care too much about your own reputation. (36b-43)

5) You hear Jesus’ words, but don’t listen to them. (44-50)

Sermon Notes

John 12:1-11

Big Idea: Valuing Jesus Accurately Leads To Worshipping Jesus Unashamedly

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’ She said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.’”
– John 11:25-27

Marks Of An Unashamed Worshipper:

1) Heart-Level authenticity (v. 3-7)

2) Loving extravagantly (v. 3-7)

3) Joyful generosity (v. 3-7)

4) Reverent humility (v. 3-6)

5) Treasuring Jesus pre-eminently (v. 3-8)

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that the has and buys that field.”
– Matthew 13:44

Sermon Notes

John 11:45-57

Big Idea: Jesus’ Death Demonstrates God’s Sovereignty And Displays Jesus’ Sufficiency While Providing Us Life Eternally And Confidence Daily

Jesus Must Die:

1) Because God’s sovereignty uses man’s folly for His glory (v. 43-53)

Rationalizations to reject Jesus:
1) The cost of following Jesus is too high (v. 48)
2) My fear of man is too great (v. 49-51)

“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
- 1 Corinthians 1:18

2) Because Jesus’ sufficiency makes eternal life possible for me (v. 49-57)

The sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice:
1) Jesus’ death satisfies God’s wrath (v. 50-55)

“But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore we have now been justified by His blood, much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by His life.”
– Romans 5:8-10

2) Jesus’ death provides me a new identity in God’s forever family (v. 52)

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”
– Galatians 2:20

Sermon Notes

John 11:1-45

Big Idea: Authentic Belief In Jesus Provides Audacious And Enduring Hope Through Jesus

Audacious Hope:

1) Jesus has a purpose for the pain (v. 1-16)

Jesus’ Purposes For The Pain:
1) God’s glory (v. 4)
2) Our belief (v. 15)

2) Jesus is my hope in the hurt, the hard, and the heartache (v. 17-27)

“Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in Him.’”
– Lamentations 3:19-24

3) Jesus enters into my grief (v. 28-37)

“He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.”
– Isaiah 53:3

4) Jesus has power over life and death (v. 38-45)

Sermon Notes

Matthew 18:21-35

Big Idea: Forgiven People Forgive Others As God Forgave Them.

I will forgive because...

I have been forgiven. (21-27)
No one is beyond my forgiveness. (28-30)
Unforgiveness is too costly. (31-35)

Sermon Notes

John 10:1-21

Big Idea: Everything Jesus Says About Himself Is True. Believe Jesus!

Jesus really is the Christ. Believe Jesus! (22-25)
Jesus really gives eternal life. Believe Jesus! (26-30)
Jesus really is the Son of God. Believe Jesus! (31-36)
Jesus really is one with the Father. Believe Jesus! (37-42)

Sermon Notes

John 10:1-21

Big Idea: Jesus Is The Good Shepherd That We Can Trust In Completely

1) Listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd. (v. 1-4)

2) Follow the leading of the Good Shepherd. (v. 4-10)

3) Trust alone in the Good Shepherd. (v. 11-21)

Sermon Notes

John 9:1-41

Big Idea: Seeing Jesus Clearly Results In Standing Firmly, Testifying Faithfully, And Believing Authentically As He Transforms Me Completely

Seeing Jesus Clearly:

1) Jesus, open my eyes to your light in my darkness (v. 1-12)

2) Jesus, open my eyes to your surpassing greatness (v. 13-34)

3) Jesus, open my eyes to your transformational power (v. 30-41)

Jesus Is The Son Of Man:
1) Jesus’ humanity (John 1:14)
2) Jesus’ humility (Philippians 2:5-11)
3) Jesus’ deity (Mark 2:28)
4) Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s prophecy (Daniel 7:13-14)
5) Jesus’ power and authority (Daniel 7:13-14)

“In Him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
- John 1:14

Sermon Notes

Matthew 28:1-20

Big Idea: True Freedom Comes Through Complete Surrender To The Son Of God And Continual Submission To The Word Of God

The Roadmap To True Freedom (John 8:31-59):

1) Know God's truth (v. 31-38)

“In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.”
– Galatians 4:3-7

2) Anchor your identity in God's truth (v. 39-47)

My spiritual paternity test:
1) Do I genuinely love Jesus? (v. 42)
2) Am I hearing or rejecting the Word Of God? (v. 43; 47)
3) Is it my will to do God’s desires or the devil’s? (v. 44)
4) Am I full of God’s truth or the devil’s lies? (v. 44-45)

“We were buried therefore with Him (Jesus) by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with Him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with Him in a resurrection like His. We know that our old self was crucified with Him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. … Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under the law but under grace.”
– Romans 6:4-7 … 12-14

3) Apply God's truth (v. 48-59)

Sermon Notes

Matthew 28:1-20

Big Idea: Jesus Is Risen, Redeeming, And Reigning And That Changes Everything

The Easter Invitation: Come and see the unstoppable power of the gospel (v. 1-7)

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
– 1 Peter 1:3-5

My Resurrection Hope:

1) Jesus has authority over earthly rulers and authorities (27:62-28:7)

2) Jesus has authority over sin and Satan (v. 5-7)

“And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.”
- Colossians 2:13-15

3) Jesus has authority over life and death (v. 5-7)

How Does Jesus Demonstrate His Authority?
1) Jesus laid down His life sacrificially

“I (Jesus) came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. … For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”
– John 10:10b-11; 17-18

2) Jesus fulfilled His promise to be raised from the dead victoriously

“The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when He is killed, after three days He will rise.”
– Mark 9:31

3) Jesus offers eternal life freely

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’”
– John 11:25-26

The Easter Exhortation: Go and tell the transformational hope of the gospel (v. 7-10)

Sermon Notes

Romans 5:6-11

Big Idea: Look At The Cross Of Christ And See That You Are Loved

1) The Trouble: We are weak and ungodly people. (v. 6)

2) The Truth: Christ died for us. (v. 7-8)

3) The Transformation: We can be changed by the cross. (v. 9-11)

Three Changes The Cross Makes:
-From condemned by our sin to justified by God. (v. 9)
-From enemies of God to reconciled to God (v. 10)
-From hopeless for eternity to rejoicing in God (v. 11)

John 8:12-30

Big Idea: Jesus Offers You Life In His Light. Follow And Believe Him.

In order to have life in Jesus’ light...

1) Follow Him. (12-20)

2) Believe Him. (21-30)

Sermon Notes

John 7:53-8:11

Big Idea: Jesus Can Totally Cleanse What Sin Has Totally Corrupted

Beware your sin when condemning others. (1-9)
Behold Jesus’ grace when condemned yourself. (10-11)

Sermon Notes

John 7:1-52

Big Idea: God’s Enduring Faithfulness Provides Me True Life Through His Sustaining Grace

In Response To God’s Enduring Faithfulness:

1) Remember and rejoice (v. 1-36)

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
- John 1:14

As I Experience God’s Faithfulness:
1) Am I feasting or disbelieving? (v. 3-9)
2) Am I feasting or disparaging? (v. 10-13)
3) Am I feasting or doubting? (v. 14-19)
4) Am I feasting or debating? (v. 20-31)
5) Am I feasting or delaying? (v. 32-36)

2) Come and drink (v. 37-39)

“Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.”
– Isaiah 55:1-3

3) Believe and receive (v. 37-52)

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God. You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.”
- Galatians 6:22-25

Sermon Notes

John 6:60-71

Big Idea: The Words Of Jesus Offer Me Eternal Life And Direct Me In My Daily Life

Because Jesus Has The Words Of Life, Will You Follow Jesus:

1) When His teaching is hard (v. 60-65)?

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”
- Galatians 2:20

2) When other people leave (v. 66-69)?

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Daily submitting to God’s Word:
1) Grow in it
2) Seek it
3) Elevate it
4) Apply It

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
- Ephesians 4:29

3) When the cost is high (v. 68-71)?

Sermon Notes

John 6:22-59

Big Idea: Jesus Satisfies Us By Graciously Giving Us Not What We Want But What We Need

Through Feasting On Jesus:
1) Receive grace even when seeking Jesus with wrong motivations (v. 22-27)

2) Receive eternal life through believing in the bread of life (v. 28-44)

God’s grace in our salvation:
1) Reconciliation: God’s grace sent Jesus (v. 32-33)
2) Initiation: God’s grace draws us to Jesus (v. 37; 44)

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love He predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace, with which He has blessed us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us.”
- Ephesians 1:3-8a

3) Salvation: God’s grace saves us through our belief in Jesus (v. 29, 35, 40, 47, 51)
4) Satisfaction: God’s grace satisfies His requirements for us through Jesus (v. 47-51)
5) Security: God’s grace secures us through Jesus (v. 37-40)

3) Receive mercy even when grumbling that Jesus isn’t sufficient (v. 41-50)

4) Receive abundant life through the sufficiency of the bread of life (v. 47-59)

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be satisfied.”
- Matthew 5:6

“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!”
– Psalm 34:8

Sermon Notes

John 6:1-21

Big Idea: Faith Is Trusting Our Savior And Not Ourselves In Every Season And Situation

2 lessons from the school of faith:

Lesson 1: When the situation is overwhelming depend on Jesus’ provision (v. 1-15)

When a situation overwhelms me, am I?
1. Ignoring and dismissing it (Mark 6:35-36)

“And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, ’This is a desolate place, and the hour is now late. Send them away to go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.’”
- Mark 6:35-36

2 . Applying human reasoning to it (v. 7)
3. Doubting Jesus in it (v. 8-9)
4. Surrendering it (v. 8-9)

Lesson 2: When the storm is raging focus on Jesus’ presence (v. 14-21)

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
- John 16:33

Sermon Notes

Acts 20:17-25

Big Idea: The Gospel Makes An Audacious Claim!

The Audacious Claim Of The Gospel Is:

Go Forth....Uncertain
Prepare For.....Difficulty
Value The Gospel.....Above All

"No local church can afford to go without the encouragement and nourishment that will come to it by sending away its best people."
- John Piper

Sermon Notes

John 5:30-47

Big Idea: Jesus’ Deity Is Confirmed. Don’t Miss Jesus!

Believe God’s witnesses about Jesus. (30-39)

Witness #1: John the Baptist points to Jesus. (30-35)
Witness #2: Jesus’ miracles prove Jesus. (36)
Witness #3: God’s Word proclaims Jesus. (37-39)

Beware “seeking” God and missing Jesus. (39-47)

Warning Sign #1: You “know” the Bible, but don’t need Jesus. (39-40)
Warning Sign #2: You “love” God, but don’t glorify Jesus. (41-44)
Warning Sign #3: You “hope” in religion, but don’t believe Jesus. (45-47)

Sermon Notes

John 5:18-29

Big Idea: Jesus’ Divinity Gives Him Authority Over Everyone And Everything

Jesus Has Authority Over:

1) All of creation: marvel at Him (v. 18-20)

“He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be pre-eminent. For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of His cross. And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him (God the Father).”
– Colossians 1:15-22

2) Life and death: believe in Him (v. 21; 24-25)

“And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.”
– 1 John 5:11-13

3) Our judgment: honor Him (v. 22-23)

“Therefore, God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
– Philippians 2:9-11

4) Our Eternal Future: Submit To Him (v. 26-29)

“As I looked, ‘thrones were placed, and the Ancient of Days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire. A stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened”
- Daniel 7:9-10

“I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came on like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.”
– Daniel 7:13-14

Sermon Notes

John 5:1-17

Big Idea: The Power Of Jesus Provides Me Wholeness And Propels Me To Holiness

2 life-changing realities about Jesus:

1) Jesus’ grace is transformational (v. 1-14)

“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of air .... But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ – by grace you have been saved.”
– Ephesians 2:1-2a; 4-5

My response to the realities of Jesus:
1) Get up (v. 8)
2) Take up (v. 8)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
– 2 Corinthians 5:17

3) Step out (v. 8; 14)

2) Jesus’ power is transcendent (v. 9-17)

And He (Jesus) said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.’”
– Mark 2:27-28

Sermon Notes

John 4:46-54

Big Idea: Seeking, Surrendering, And Submitting To Jesus Provides Peace In My Problems, Confidence In My Crisis, And Direction In My Dilemmas

True Faith:

1) Goes to Jesus (v. 46-47)

2) Shares our heart with Jesus (v. 47-49)

How to share my heart with Jesus (v. 47):
1) Share authentically
2) Share humbly
3) Share specifically
4) Share fervently

3) Places our trust in Jesus (v. 48-53)

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
– John 16:33

4) Obeys the words of Jesus (v. 50-54)

Truth I can trust and obey:
1) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
- Matthew 11:28-30

2) “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
– John 10:9-11

3) “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
– Matthew 6:31-33

4) “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. ... I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
– John 14: 1-3; 6

Sermon Notes

1 Peter 1:3-9

Big Idea: We Have Hope In The Fire Because We Have Been Born For Glory, Kept For Glory, And Prepared For Glorious Joy

Three things that give us hope in the midst of the fire...

A Guaranteed Inheritance (v. 3-5)

a. Our Inheritance is Prepared (v. 3)
b. Our Inheritance is Perfect (v. 4)
c. Our Inheritance is Protected (v. 5)

Genuine Faith (v. 6-7)
Glorious Joy (v. 8-9)

a. Love Christ
b. Trust Christ

“No man shall ever behold the glory of Christ by sight in heaven who does not, in some measure, behold it by faith in this world.”
- John Owen

c. Receive from Christ

“If we love him, trust him, and rejoice in him, then we can receive from him all that we need to turn trials into triumphs.”
- Warren Wiersbe

Sermon Notes

2 Timothy 3:14-17

Big Idea: The Bible Is God’s Word, So We Must Continue In It Throughout The Christian Life

3 reasons to continue in God’s Word...

1) Because it points us to Jesus. (14-15)

2) Because God wrote it. (16a)

3) Because it’s the foundation for our discipleship. (16b-17)

Sermon Notes

Luke 2:1-20

Big Idea: Christmas Is The Greatest Giver Of All, Giving The Greatest Gift Of All, To Meet Our Greatest Need Of All

The Good News Of God:

1) Unwrap It (v. 8-14)

Free Gifts From God (v. 10-14):
1) Joy (v. 10)
2) Peace (v. 14)

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in His flesh the dividing wall of hostility.”
– Ephesians 2:13-14

3) Salvation (v. 11)

2) Receive It (v. 15-20)

5 Ways To Apply The Good News Of God (v. 15-20):
1) Come to Jesus (v. 15-16)
2) Treasure Jesus (v. 19)
3) Worship Jesus (v. 20)
4) Share Jesus (v. 17-18)
5) Believe in Jesus (v. 20)

“But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.”
– John 20:31

Sermon Notes

Luke 1:57-80

Big Idea: God’s Mercy Is The Foundation Of Our Redemption

God’s Mercy:

1) Produces transformation: worship God because of it (v. 57-68)

2) Provides redemption: surrender and serve God in response to it (v. 67-75)

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations.”
– Deuteronomy 7:9

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
– Romans 12:1

3) Proclaims salvation: believe and share it (v. 76-80)

3 Truths About Salvation (v. 77-79):
1) Salvation is personal and available (v. 77)
2) God’s mercy makes my forgiveness possible (v. 77-78)

“If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”
– 1 John 1:9

3) God’s light is unstoppable (v. 78-79)

“In Him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
– John 1:4-5

“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.”
– Psalm 23:4-6

Sermon Notes

Luke 1:39-56

Big Idea: Rejoicing Is My Response To Recognizing The Surpassing Greatness Of God

Reasons to Rejoice:

1) Recognize God is always working in, through, and around me (v. 39-45)

2) Remember who God is to me (v. 46-56)

God Is:
1) My Savior (v. 47)
2) Mighty (v. 49)
3) Holy (v. 49)
4) Merciful (v. 50-53)

3) Rest in what God has done for me (v. 46-56)

Sermon Notes

Luke 1:26-38

Big Idea: A Life Fully Surrendered To God Is Used Powerfully To Accomplish The Purposes Of God

A Life Used Powerfully By God Is Marked By:

1) Humility in response to the grace of God (v. 26-33)

“Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14

2) Faithful obedience to God (v. 34-38)

Propelled By God’s Power:
1) The power of the promises of God (v. 35)

“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us).”
– Matthew 1:22-23

2) The power of our triune God (v. 35)
3) The power of the presence of God (v. 28; 35)
4) The power of the people of God (v. 36)
5) The power of the purposes of God (v. 37)

3) Complete surrender before God (v. 38)

Sermon Notes

Luke 1:5-25

Big Idea: Hope Is Believing The Promises Of God Will Be Fulfilled In The Timing Of God To Accomplish The Purposes Of God For The Glory Of God

When Tempted To Lose Hope:

1) Turn to God fervently because He always hears your prayers (v. 5-19)

“Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”
– Jeremiah 29:12-13

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
– Hebrews 4:16

“Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in Him.’”
– Lamentations 3:19-24

2) Trust in God fully because He always keeps His promises (v. 13-25)

5 reasons to trust God today:
1) Because God always fulfills His promises (v. 16-17)

“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.”
– Malachi 4:5-6

2) Because it produces joy in all circumstances (v. 14)
3) Because not doing so has severe consequences (v. 18-20)
4) Because God always accomplishes His eternal purposes (v. 16-17; 20)
5) Because through it I experience deliverance (v. 24-25)

Sermon Notes

Titus 2:11-14

Big Idea: God’s Grace Is Available, Abundant, And Amazing, But It Requires Us To Respond

The Grace of God:

1) The grace of God brings salvation

2) The grace of God trains us to change

3) The grace of God gives us hope

Sermon Notes

John 4:1-45

Big Idea: Jesus Must Increase And We Must Decrease

Lift Up Your Eyes:

1) Off of the obstacles and onto the Overcomer (v. 1-15)

2) Off of your sin and onto the Savior (v. 7-19; 28-30)

“but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
- Romans 5:8

3) Off of religion and onto a personal relationship (v. 19-26)

2 Essential Marks Of A True Worshipper (4:23-24:
1) Truth
2) The Holy Spirit

4) Off of missional passivity and onto missional priority (v. 27-45)

3 Parts Of Living With Missional Priority Daily (v. 27-45):
1) Open up (v. 28-30)
2) Look up (v. 31-38)
3) Speak up (v. 28-30; 39-42)

Sermon Notes

John 3:22-36

Big Idea: Jesus Must Increase And We Must Decrease

In response to Jesus’ surpassing greatness:

1) Embrace gospel priority because Jesus is the Savior not me (v. 22-29)

2 aspects of gospel priority and purity:
1) My identity is in Christ not ministry or church (v. 27-29)
2) Proclaiming the gospel with conviction, confidence, and consistency (v. 27-29)

2) Embrace gospel generosity because Jesus’ mission supersedes me (v. 27-30)

2 guiding principles of the Biblical theology of generosity:
1) God’s grace is the source of it all (v. 27)
2) God’s purposes and glory are the reason for it all (v. 28-30)

3) Embrace God-empowered humility because Jesus is greater than me (v. 28-31)

“Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility towards one another for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because he cares for you.”
– 1 Peter 5:5b-7

3 aspects of embracing humility daily:
1) My Priority: Emphasize Jesus (v. 28)
2) My Purpose: Exalt Jesus (v. 29)
3) My Blessing: Enduring Joy From Jesus (v. 29)

4) Embrace faithful obedience because Jesus reigns sovereignly over me (v. 31-36)

Two evidences of eternal-life giving genuine surrender to Jesus:
1) Believing in the Word of God (v. 33)
2) Obedience to the Word of God (v. 36)

Sermon Notes

John 3:1-21

Big Idea: God Meets Our Greatest Need Through His Son And Makes Us Alive Through His Spirit

The gospel is...

Good news needed: Our sin has condemned us. (18-21)
Good news arrived: Jesus came to save us. (13-17)
Good news applied: The Holy Spirit gives new life. (1-12)

Sermon Notes

John 2:13-25

Big Idea: Jesus Desires True Worshippers Not Religious Imposters

A True Worshipper Has:

1) The Right Posture: Authentic Reverence (v. 13-17)

2) The Right Attitude: Zealous Exaltation (v. 17-22)

“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
- Psalm 139:23-24

3) The Right Object: Jesus Christ (v. 18-25)

Sermon Notes

John 2:1-12

Big Idea: The Manifestation Of The Glory Of God Reveals The Life-Transforming Grace Of God

Grace-Displaying Revelations:

1) Jesus is the Son Of God (v. 1-5)

My response to the reality of Jesus’ divinity:
1) Reverence and deference (v. 5)
2) Seeing and seeking (v. 3)
3) Trusting and believing (v. 5)
4) Submission and obedience (v. 5)

2) Jesus ushers in the new covenant (v. 6-10)

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
– Matthew 5:17

“For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.”
– Romans 6:14

3) Jesus is the Messiah (v. 9-11)

Sermon Notes

John 1:35-51

Big Idea: Seeing Jesus Accurately Leads To Following Jesus Faithfully

Followers Of Jesus:

1) Abide in Jesus because He is what we are seeking (v. 35-40)

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you”
- Matthew 6:33

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
– John 15:4-5

2) Bring others to Jesus because Jesus changes everything (v. 41-47)

3) Surrender to Jesus because He is the one true King (v. 43-51)

“I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages should serve Him; His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.”
– Daniel 7:13-14

Sermon Notes

John 1:6-8; 15; 19-28

Big Idea: Come And See Jesus For Exactly Who He Is!

Who is Jesus?

1) The Lamb of God provided. (29)

2) The eternal God revealed. (30-31) 3)

3) The Son of God confirmed. (32-34)

Sermon Notes

John 1:6-8; 15; 19-28

Big Idea: A Faithful Witness For Christ Continually Points Others To The Surpassing Greatness Of Christ

A Faithful Witness Has (John 1:19-28):

1) A Christ-centered identity as a living testimony for Christ (v. 19-23)

“And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”
– Luke 1:14-17

“A voice cries: In the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. ... And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all the flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
- Isaiah 40: 3; 5

2) A purpose-driven urgency in pointing others to Christ (v. 24-28)

Sermon Notes

John 1:1-18

Big Idea: Jesus Reveals The Grace Of God Through Which We Have Daily Hope In God

“But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.”

– John 20:31

Jesus Is:

1) The Word that gives me life (v. 1-5)

a) “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light’, and there was light. And God saw that the light was good.”
– Genesis 1:1-4a

2) The Light that offers me a forever family (v. 6-13)

“’Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”

– Matthew 7:21-23

“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoptions as sons by whom we cry, ‘Abba Father!’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs – heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.”
– Romans 8:15-17a

3) The Revelation that gives me hope (v. 14-18)

My daily sources of hope (John 1:14-18)
1) The presence of God (v. 14)
2) The glory of God (v. 14)
3) The promises of God (v. 17)

“For all the promises of God find their Yes in Him (Jesus). That is why it is through Him that we utter our Amen to God for His glory.”
– 2 Corinthians 1:20

4) The grace of God (v. 14; 16)

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
– 2 Corinthians 12:9

Sermon Notes

John 20:31

Big Idea: Only Jesus Provides Me True Life Because Only Jesus Is Life

Your Invitation To Life:

1) Come and see that Jesus is life (v. 31a)

Jesus’ Declarations Of Life:
1) “I Am The Bread Of Life” - John 6:35
2) “I Am The Light Of The World” - John 8:12
3) “I Am The Door” - John 10:9
4) “I Am The Good Shepherd" - John 10:11
5) “I Am The Resurrection and The Life" - John 11:25
6) “I Am The Way, The Truth, and The Life” - John 14:6
7) “I Am The True Vine” - John 15:1

“So Jesus said to the Twelve, ‘Do you want to go away as well?' Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.’”
– John 6:67-70

2) Come and see that believing in Jesus gives us life (v. 31b)

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 12:1-2

Big Idea: We Can Run Our Race Faithfully Because Jesus Has Won THE Race Completely!

How To Run Well:

1) Run unfettered like a marathon runner. (1b)

2) Run with fortitude like a running back. (1c)

3) Run focused with your eyes on Jesus. (2)

Sermon Notes

Seeing God As Worthy Fuels Me To Live Faithfully

We Are Saved By God’s Grace To Be Agents Of God’s Grace

Grasping God’s Greatness Empowers And Emboldens My Faithfulness

The Grace Of God Delivers Me From The Wrath Of God Through My Faith In God

God Graciously Works To Instill Hearts Of Grace In His People

God Is The God Of Second Chances, So We Must Proclaim His Grace To All Who Will Hear

God Graciously Hears And Responds To Us When We Call On Him With Repentant Hearts

God Graciously Pursues Us Even When Our Hearts Are Far From Him

Treasuring Christ Above All Emboldens And Empowers Me To Live Faithfully For Christ In All

Freedom From The Fears Of Life Is Found Through Fearing The Lord

The Assurance Of God’s Faithfulness Equips Me To Face The Future With Confidence

Faith Is Learning To Trust In The Goodness Of God And Rest In The Grace Of God In Every Season And Situation

Hebrews 11:20/Genesis 27-28:5

Big Idea: God Is Faithful To Accomplish His Purposes Even Despite Our Failures.

1) Run from faithless philosophies for life. (Gen. 27:1-45)

Isaac: “If it feels right, it is right.” (1-4)
Rebekah: “The ends justify the means.” (5-17)
Jacob: “A little white lie never hurt anybody.” (18-29)
Esau: “Don’t just get mad, get even.” (30-45)

2) Recognize God at work in your mess. (Gen. 27:46-28:5/Heb. 11:20)

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22

Big Idea: Great Blessing From God Comes When I Withhold Nothing From God

Spiritual Tests Study Guide:

1) Always Ready (Heb 11:17-18; Gen 22:1-2)

“Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ for God cannot be tempted with evil and He Himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin where it is fully grown brings forth death.”
– James 1:13-15

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ... Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
– James 1:2-4; 12

2) Obey Quickly (Heb 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-4)

3) Withhold Nothing (Heb 11:17-19; Genesis 22:4-19)

Isaac Jesus

1) Miracle promised baby: born to a 1) Miracle promised baby: born to a
barren woman too old to conceive virgin (Luke 2)
(Gen 18; 21)

2) Only son (Gen 22:2) 2) Only Son (John 3:16)

3) Figuratively dead for 3 days 3) Physically dead for 3 days
(Gen 22:4; Heb 11:19) (Matthew 12:40)

4) Carried the wood for his sacrifice 4) Carried the wooden cross for His
(Gen 22:6) sacrifice (John 19:17)

5) Willingly submitted to be sacrificed 5) Willingly submitted to be
(Gen 22:9) sacrificed (John 10:18)

6) Sacrificed on a mountain in Moriah 6) Sacrificed near Mt. Moriah
(Gen 22:2) (John 19:20)

7) Figuratively brought back from the 7) Literally raised from the dead
dead (Heb 11:19) (Matthew 28:6)

“He (God) who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?”
- Romans 8:32

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 11:11-16; Genesis 15-18; 21

Big Idea: Setting My Heart On God’s Faithfulness Empowers Me To Persevere For God’s Purposes

While I’m Waiting:

1) Am I fighting for control with God or surrendering control to God? (Hebrews 11:11; Gen 15:1-7; 16:1-6)

The power for my perseverance (Genesis 15:1-7):
1) Faith in God’s protection (Genesis 15:1)
2) Faith in God’s promises (Genesis 15:2-5)
3) Faith in God’s plan (Genesis 15:7)
4) Faith in God’s heart (Genesis 15:1-7)

2) Am I laughing at God or leaning on God? (Hebrews 11:11-12; Genesis 17-18; 21)

How to lean on God as I wait:
1) Remember who and where God is (Heb 11:11; Genesis 18:1-15)
2) Rely on God’s Word (Genesis 18:10-15)
3) Recall God’s faithfulness (Hebrews 11:11-12)
4) Rest in God’s sovereignty (Hebrews 11:11-12; Genesis 18:10-15)

3) Is my deepest desire the temporal or the eternal? (Hebrews 11:13-16)

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 11:8-10, Genesis 12:1-5

Big Idea: Earthly Faithfulness Requires An Eternal Focus

Foundations Of Forward-Looking Faith:

1) God’s Call is My Command (Heb 11:8; Genesis 12:1-5)

“Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan.”
– Genesis 12:1-5

2) God’s Promises Are My Confidence (Heb 11:8-9; Genesis 12:1-5)

“‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.’”
- Romans 4:3

How To Focus On God’s Promises:
1) Focus on the who not the how

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
- Romans 12:1-2

2) Focus more on what I’m gaining than what I’m losing
3) Focus on living missionally not comfortably

3) God’s City Is My Hope (Heb 11:9-10)

“Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.”
- Hebrews 12:28-29

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 11:7, Genesis 6:5-9:17

Big Idea: Reverent Fear Of God Produces Radical Obedience To God

Even When I Can’t See:
1) Walk with God reverently (Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:5-22)

Reverence Reality Check:
1) Is my life filled with Gospel consistency? (Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 5:32; 6:8-9)
2) Am I discipling my family to walk with God? (Genesis 5:21-32; 6:9-10; 18)
3) Am I fearing God or fearing man? (Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:5-12)

“God preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness ... “
- 2 Peter 2:5

4) Am I truly grieved by my sin? (Hebrews 11:7, Genesis 6:5-7)
5) Am I doing the harder, right, God-honoring thing or the easier wrong thing? (Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:5-12)

2) Obey God wholeheartedly (Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:13-8:22)

3) Rest in God’s grace confidently (Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 8:20-9:17)

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
– Hebrews 4:16

“But the Lord said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
– 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 11:5-6

Big Idea: God Is Pleased By Those Who Faithfully Walk With Him

1) Step out by seeking God constantly. (6c, Genesis 5:21-24)

2) Step out by standing for God courageously. (6b, Jude 14-16)

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 11:4; Genesis 4:1-12

Big Idea: A Life Of Faith Is Rooted In A Heart Of Worship

Biblical Faith: A confident belief in Jesus Christ that produces enduring obedience to God in order to advance the Kingdom of God, no matter our earthly circumstances or consequences

A Heart Of Worship:

1) Delights in the righteousness we have from God (Hebrews 11:4; Genesis 4:1-12)

“For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.”
- Psalm 51:16-17

2 ways to delight in the righteousness from God (Genesis 4:4):
1) Rest confidently in God’s justification of me (Hebrews 11:4; Genesis 4:4)

“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”
– Hebrews 9:22

2) Rely completely on God’s provision for me (Genesis 4:4)

2) Gives faithfully and generously to God (Hebrews 11:4; Genesis 4:4)

“The point is this whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”
– 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

The “Get To” Giver (Genesis 4:4):
1) Gives God my first
2) Gives God my best

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
– Romans 12:1-2

Sermon Notes

Hebrews 10:19-11:3; 6

Big Idea: A Surrendered Heart To Jesus Is Marked By A Life Of Stepping Out In Faith For Jesus

Biblical Faith: A confident belief in Jesus Christ that produces enduring obedience to God in order to advance the Kingdom of God, no matter our earthly circumstances or consequences

Because Jesus Is Supreme Over All:

Conviction 1: I will anchor my hope in the promises of God (v. 10:23, 39; 11:1)

“We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf …”
– Hebrews 6:19-20a

“He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:24

Conviction 2: I will invest my life to accomplish the purposes of God (10:24-25; 11:2)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not of your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
- Ephesians 2:8-10

Conviction 3: I will live to please God by wholeheartedly seeking God (10:22; 11:3, 6)

Sermon Notes

Revelation 3:14-22

Big Idea: Faith In Jesus Christ Is The Only True Remedy For The Sin Sickness That Condemns Me

Jesus’ Diagnosis:

1) I Am the antidote to the sin that ails you (v. 14)

“For all the promises of God find their Yes in Him (Jesus). That is why it is through Him that we utter our Amen to God for His glory.”
- 2 Corinthians 1:20

2) Self-sufficiency will be the death of you (v. 15-17)

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”
- John 7:37-38

3) Savior-dependency provides eternal life for you (v. 18-22)

Jesus’ Life-Giving Prescription (v. 18-19):
1) Prioritize the correct riches (v. 18)

“Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”
- Isaiah 55:1

2) Clothe yourself in Christ’s righteousness (v. 18)

“And you who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with Him (Jesus), having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in Him.”
- Colossians 2:13-15

3) See your sin situation and Savior rightly (v. 12)

“Because if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
- Romans 10:9

4) Respond with commitment and repentance (v. 13)

“If we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
- 1 John 1:9

My Resurrection Decision (v. 20-22)
1) Receive Christ or reject Christ? (v. 20)
2) Sit and reign with Christ for all eternity or be spit out by Christ and live in misery? (v. 21)

Sermon Notes

Revelation 3:7-13

“I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do.”
- John 17:4

“‘Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.’” And there appeared to Him an angel from heaven strengthening him. And being in agony He prayed more earnestly; and His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”
– Luke 22:42-44

Big Idea: Living Mighty For God Occurs As I Surrender Completely To God

“He (Jesus) must increase, but I must decrease.”
- John 3:30

Marks Of A Mighty Faith:

1) A heart of full surrender (v. 7-8)

“I (Jesus) am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.”
- John 10:9

2) A life of faithful obedience (v. 8-9)

Facets of faithful obedience (v. 8-9):
1) Walking through, not turning from, Jesus’ open doors (v. 8)
2) Focusing on the Overcomer and not the obstacle (v. 8-9)
3) Obeying, not abandoning, God’s Word (v. 8)
4) Exalting and declaring Jesus’ name when tempted to dismiss it or deny it (v. 8)

3) A mindset of fervent endurance (v. 10-13)

My battle plan for enduring victory (v. 10-13):
1) Turning to Jesus dependently (v. 10-11)
2) Trusting the promises of Jesus wholeheartedly (v. 11)
3) Resting in the victory of Jesus confidently (v. 12)
4) Following the leading of the Holy Spirit obediently and joyfully (v. 13)

Sermon Notes

Revelation 2:19-29

Big Idea: Jesus Will Build His Church His Way With His People

From Jesus’ point of view…

A lifelike church ≠ a living church. (1)
A dead church ≠ a done church. (2-3)
A clean Christian = a kept Christian. (4-6)

Sermon Notes

Revelation 2:19-29

Big Idea: Hold Fast To Christ Because Our Greatest Reward Is Christ

Hold Fast... :

1) Because I am best for you (v. 18-23)

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”
– 2 Timothy 2:2-4

How to verify the authenticity of a gospel teacher:
1) Does their teaching align with the truth of God’s Word?
2) Does their character genuinely reflect Christ?
3) Is the fruit of their life the fruit of the Holy Spirit?
4) Are they seeking to build their kingdom or God’s kingdom?

“the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
– Romans 6:23

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”
– 2 Peter 3:9

2) Because I will fulfill my promises to you (v. 24-28)

Promises Jesus makes to me (v. 25-28):
1) I am coming back for you (v. 25)
2) I have an important role for you (v. 26-27)
3) I am forever with you (v. 28)

Sermon Notes

Revelation 2:12-17

Big Idea: The Compromising Of My Faith Comes When I Worship Culture Over Christ

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes to whom we must give account.”
– Hebrews 4:12-13

The Daily Decision Of Devotion (Revelation 2:12-17):

1) Compromise My Faith & Reap Christ’s Wrath (v. 14-16)

“You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes Himself an enemy of God.”
– James 4:4

The Process Of Repentance (v. 3)
1) Brokenness over my sin
2) Confession of my sin

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.“
- 1 John 1:9

3) Turning from my sin and to God
4) Making restitution for my sin

2) Hold Fast To My Faith & Receive Eternal Reward (v. 17)

“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.”
– Ephesians 6:13-18

Rewards From Christ (v. 17):
1) Daily provision from Christ
2) Victory in Christ
3) A new identity through Christ

Sermon Notes

Revelation 2:8-11

Big Idea: Because Jesus Is Worthy Of My All I Live Courageously For Jesus In All

Courageous Questions:

1) What if I genuinely believed that Jesus changes everything? (v. 8)

“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.”
– Ephesians 3:20-21

2) What if I feared suffering less and trusted my Savior more? (v. 8-10)

Earthly Difficulties:
1) Endure Slander (v. 9)
2) Embrace Suffering (v. 10)
3) Expect Sacrifice (v. 10-11)

3) What if I truly valued eternal crowns over earthly comfort? (v. 9-11)

Living Courageously:
1) Listen Up
2) Look In
3) Lay Down
4) Look Up
5) Look Out

Sermon Notes

Revelation 2:1-7

Big Idea: Jesus Is Satisfied With Nothing Less Than A Love For Him That Drives Everything We Do

I want you to know…

1) I care about you. (1-2a)

2) I condemn loveless loyalty. (2-4, 6)

3) I correct with grace. (5, 7)

Sermon Notes

Revelation 1:1-20

Big Idea: My Right Response To The Revelation Of Christ Is The Exaltation Of Christ

My Response To The Revelation Of Christ (Revelation 1:1-20):

1) Elevate God’s Word (v. 1-3)

Elevating God’s Word in my daily life (v. 3)
1) Read it publicly
2) Listen to it intently
3) Obey it faithfully

2) Exalt God’s Son (v. 4-8)

3 Reasons for Jesus’ exaltation:
1) Because of who Jesus is to me (v. 5-6, 8)
2) Because of what Jesus has done for me (v. 5-6)
3) Because of what Jesus will do for me (v. 7-8)

3) Endure Through God’s Strength (v. 9-20)

2 keys to enduring for Christ:
1) Patient Perseverance (v. 9)

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
– James 1:2-4

2) Proper Perspective (v. 12-20)

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
– John 16:33

Sermon Notes

Acts 13:1-3

Big Idea: Grasping Jesus’ Worthiness Produces Within Me A Joyful Willingness To Live Sent By Jesus In Faithful Obedience

Living Sent:

1) A Worship-Fueled Willingness (v. 1-3)

“Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.”
- Acts 9:15-16

“For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.”
- Acts 11:26

Four Characteristics Of A Missional Culture (v. 1-3)
1) Worship is a 24/7 lifestyle (v. 2)
2) Dependence on God is habitual (v. 2)
3) Discipleship is foundational (v. 1)
4) Living sent is normal (v. 2-3)

2) A Spirit-Led Obedience (v. 2-3)

“If you love me (Jesus), you will keep my commandments.”
- John 14:15

Clarifying My Call:
1) What does God’s word say about it?
2) What does godly wisdom say about it?
3) Why is my heart truly interested in it?
4) What does God the Holy Spirit say about it?

Living Sent In 2023:
1) Pop-Up Food Pantry (Monthly: contact Tyler Atwell & Ellie Nypaver)
2) Dominican Republic Mission Trip (Late July 2023: contact Pastor Dan)
3) Harvest Kids Camp (Evenings of August 7-11: contact Ann Hammer)
* For more information, and/or to express interest, please email: info@harvestannapolis.org
4) Victoria Garris - Missionary to Nicaragua

Sermon Notes

2 Timothy 2:1-7

Big Idea: Faithful Gospel Application Produces Missional Multiplication

Daily Gospel Applications:

1) Live strengthened by the gospel (v. 1)

“I (Jesus) am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
- John 15:5

2) Multiply disciples and leaders for the gospel (v. 1-3)

Ready for kingdom responsibility?
1) Character (v. 2)
2) Conviction (v. 2)
3) Competent (v. 2)
4) Commitment (v. 3)
5) Chemistry (v. 1)

3) Persevere on mission for the gospel (v. 3-7)

How to persevere in and for the gospel
1) Fight like a soldier (v. 3-4)
2) Train like an athlete (v. 5)
3) Work like a farmer (v. 6-7)

“Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
- Matthew 9:37-38

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.“
- Galatians 6:9

Sermon Notes

Acts 2:36-47

Big Idea: Healthy Church Members Commit Themselves To Living As Those Who Have Been Called Out And Called Together By God

1) A church is God’s “called-out ones.” (36-41)

Healthy church members can say, “I have been…"
a. Saved by God’s grace.
b. Baptized in Jesus name.
c. Changed by the Holy Spirit.
d. Located in one place.

2) A church is God’s called-together ones. (42-47)

Healthy church members can say, “So I will…”
a. Receive godly shepherding for the sake of my soul. (42a)
b. Engage in meaningful community for the benefit of others. (42b, 44-46)
c. Participate in awe-filled worship for the glory of God. (43, 46-47a)
d. Live with evangelistic purpose for the advance of the gospel. (47b)

Sermon Notes

1 Peter 4:10-11

Big Idea: Faithful Stewards Of God’s Grace Are Fervent Servants For God’s Glory

Stewards Of Grace:

1) Are Conduits Of God’s Grace (v. 10)

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
– Romans 12:1-2

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
– Ephesians 2:8-10

A Conduit Of God’s Grace:
1) Heart Level: Receives and Remembers God’s Grace
2) Head Level: Rests and Renews Mind In God’s Grace
3) Hands Level: Reflects and Re-centers Priorities Around God’s Grace

2) Are Fueled By God’s Strength (v. 11)

Struggling For Strength To Serve?
1) Where in my heart am I not truly trusting in God’s power, promises, provision, plan, or purposes?
2) Where in my life am I relying on my own strength to serve and not God’s?

“Him (Jesus), we proclaim warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all His energy that he powerfully works within me.”
– Colossians 1:28-29

3) Are Motivated By God’s Glory (v. 11)

Sermon Notes

Ephesians 4:1-16

Big Idea: I Can’t Reach Full Spiritual Maturity Outside Of Biblical Community

In My Walk With Christ:

1) Am I Pursuing Gospel Unity? (v. 1-6)

How to pursue gospel unity daily:
1) Remember the gospel’s impact on me (v. 1)
2) Choose humility (v. 2)
3) Let gentleness define me (v. 2)
4) Live patiently (v. 2)
5) Bear with one another lovingly (v. 2)

2) Am I Stewarding My Spiritual Gifts Faithfully? (v. 7-14)

3) Am I Building God’s Church Daily? (v. 12-16)

3 Ways To Build God’s Church Daily:
1) Grow up (v. 12-15)
2) Speak up (v. 15)
3) Step up (v. 16)

Sermon Notes

Romans 6:1-11

Big Idea: Living Freely Comes From Choosing To Die Daily

Living Free:

Identifying With Christ Completely (v. 1-9)

Aspects Of My Unification With Christ (from Tony Merida):
1. Justification: Freedom From The Penalty of Sin (v. 7)

“But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by His blood, much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God.”
– Romans 5:8-9

Sanctification: Freedom From the Power Of Sin (v. 6)
Glorification: Freedom From The Presence Of Sin (v. 8)

Identity Indicators:
1. I Have Been Crucified With Christ (v. 6)
2. I Am Embracing The Newness Of Life Through Christ (v. 4)

Living The Resurrected Life Daily (v. 1-11)

Realities Of The Resurrected Life:
1. Serving Sin An Eviction Notice (v. 6-7)
2. Stop Looking Horizontally For What I Can Only Find Vertically (v. 3, 6, 9, 11)
3. Taking My Next Step (v. 4, 11)

Sermon Notes

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12

Big Idea: God Calls Us Not To A Life Well-Known, But A Life Well-Lived

In order to live well…

Love increasingly. (9-10)

How do I learn love from the Triune God?
- I learn that love moves toward the broken by looking at the example of God the Father. (1 John 4:9, Rom. 5:8)
- I learn that love gives sacrificially by listening to the teaching of Jesus. (John 13:34-35, John 15:12-13)
- I learn that love remains patiently by leaning on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. (Rom. 5:5, Gal. 5:22)

Live intentionally. (11-12)

How to live intentionally for the glory of God:
- Work hard publicly.
- Handle your business personally.
- Care for your soul privately.

Sermon Notes

John 1:9-13

Big Idea: Jesus Became Flesh So That We Can Become Family

My Christmas Decision:

Reject Christ And Be Rejected For All Eternity (v. 10-11)

“’Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”
– Matthew 7:21-23

Receive Christ And Become Forever Family (v. 12-13)

“Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.”
- John 20:30-31

“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoptions as sons by whom we cry, ‘Abba Father!’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs – heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.”
– Romans 8:15-17a

The A,B,C’s of Receiving Christ (vs. 12):
1) Admit I’m a sinner in need of a Savior
2) Believe that Jesus Christ is the Son Of God and My Savior
3) Confess Jesus Christ as my Lord

Sermon Notes

John 1:14-18

Big Idea: God’s Grace Is My Source Of Eternal Life And Enduring Hope

Daily Applications Of The Incarnation:

Anchoring my Eternal Hope in Jesus Christ’s Fullness (v. 14-18)

“We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf ….”
– Hebrews 6:19-20a

Anchors for My Daily Hope
1. God fulfills all of his promises to me (v. 15)
2. God continually lavishes His grace upon me (v. 16-17)
3. God has revealed Himself and drawn near to me (v. 14, 18)

Living With Hope
1. Fix my mind on God’s promises
2. Fix my heart on God’s presence
3. Fix my hands on God’s purposes

Finding my Daily Confidence in God’s Covenant Faithfulness (v. 16-18)

“He who calls you is faithful, He will surely do it.”
– 1 Thessalonians 5:24

Sermon Notes

John 1:6-8

Big Idea: When Worshipping God Is My Daily Purpose, Witnessing About God is My Daily Practice

As A Gospel Messenger:

Know Your Role: Embrace Your Purpose (v. 6)

Marks Of A Purpose-Driven Life:
1. Clarity
2. Simplicity
3. Urgency

Know Your Role: Speak The Truth (v. 7)

Critical Components Of A Compelling Gospel Testimony:
1. Authenticity

My Story: I Was ________________ But God And Now _________________________

Relatability
Christ-exalting & Christ-Centered
Conviction
Hope-Giving
Know Your Role: It’s Not About You (v. 8)

"He must increase, but I must decrease.”
– John 3:30

Am I Making Life All About Me?
1. Am I more focused on my own reputation than Christ’s exaltation?
2. Am I doubting God instead of declaring God?
3. Am I playing God instead of proclaiming God?
4. Am I building my kingdom instead of God’s kingdom?
5. Am I hoarding resources instead of generously investing resources?

Fulfilling My Role As A Faithful Gospel Messenger:
1. Be Interceding
2. Be Intentional
3. Be Interested
4. Be Inconvenienced
5. Be Invested

“’For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”
– Romans 10:13-15

Sermon Notes

John 1:1-5

Big Idea: Who Jesus Is To Me Determines Everything For Me

Jesus Is:

1) The Word (v. 1-3)

The Trinity’s Role In My Salvation:
1) God the Father sends
2) God the Son saves
3) God the Holy Spirit secures and seals

“For all the promises of God find their Yes in Him (Jesus). That is why it is through Him that we utter our Amen to God for His glory.”
– 2 Corinthians 1:20

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light’, and there was light. And God saw that the light was good.”
- Genesis 1:1-4a

Because Jesus Is God:
1) Am I currently surrounding and submitting every part of my life under His authority?
2) Am I currently faithfully reading and obeying the Word of God daily?
3) Am I trusting in God’s character and applying God’s promises in each of my current circumstances and situations?
4) Am I looking at every aspect of my life and the world around me with a Gospel heart and perspective?
5) Am I genuinely seeking Jesus in every situation in my life?

2) The Life (v. 4)

2 Types of Life Jesus Offers Me:
1) Eternal Life (John 3:16)

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.
-John 3:16

2) Abundant Life (John 10:10)

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
- John 10:10

Abundant Life Roadblocks:
1) Stolen joy
2) Killed testimony
3) Destroyed humility

3) The Light (v. 4-5)

"And Jesus spoke to them saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.'”
– John 8:12

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
– Matthew 5:14-16

“You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”
– 1 Peter 2:9

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. …. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”
– Isaiah 9:2, 6-7

“Jesus asked His disciples say the Son of Man is?” … They replied, ‘Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But what about you?’ Jesus asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’” …. Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’”’
– Matthew 16:13-16

Sermon Notes

The Incarnation Ignites Community Transformation

Considering How God’s Been To Us Causes Full-Stop Thanksgiving In Us

I Am Saved By God’s Grace Personally To Display God’s Grace Faithfully

I Am Born Again By God To Daily Display The Gospel Of God

God’s Grace Drives The Entire Christian Life From Beginning To End

God Calls Us To Stand Firm And Fight In Spiritual Battle

A Consistent Gospel Testimony Lives Under Earthly Authority In A Way That Displays Jesus’ Ultimate Authority In Every Way

God Has Given Everyone In His Church A Part To Play In The Building Of His Church

Pursuing Gospel Purity Requires Addressing Gospel Fallacy Directly

Genuinely Building The Church Of God Requires Leaders Who Wholeheartedly Reflect The Character Of God

Spiritual Maturity Equips Me To Live Missionally And Enables Me To Live Courageously

The Pursuits Of My Life Must Flow From The Priorities Of Jesus' Heart

The Heart Of The Matter Is That My Heart Must Be Right With God

When I Don’t Know What Else To Do I Can Always Trust God To See Me Through

Hope In My Struggle Comes As I Anchor In My Savior

Though We Can Be Terrible Roommates, God Has Chosen To Live With Humanity Because Of His Never-Failing Love

In Times Of Trouble, Turning To God Always Provides Me Deliverance Through God

Wisdom Focuses On God’s Pre-Eminence In The Face Of Man’s Foolishness

God’s Way Is Rarely The Easy Way, But It’s Always The Right And Best Way

God Calls His People To Walk In The Way Of Wisdom Even When Life Gets Hard

Trusting That God Is With Me And For Me Sustains Me In A World Full Of Difficulty And Adversity

A Heart Left Unchecked Does Catastrophic Damage, But A Heart Submitted To The Lord Rests In His Care

People After God’s Own Heart Are Called To Love Deeply And Stand Firmly

My Confidence In The Character Of God Gives Me The Conviction & Courage To Stand For God

A Fully Surrendered Heart To God Is Used Powerfully By God

King Jesus And King Me Can’t Reign On The Throne Of My Heart At The Same Time

Wholehearted Obedience Is Always The Right Response To God’s Enduring Faithfulness

Only When God Is Enough For Me Do I Experience Life Abundantly

Experiencing Victory Comes Through Living Reverently

Raising Kids The Right Way Means Discipling Kids God’s Way

A Life Well-Lived Keeps Its Compass Fixed On God

In My Barrenness God Always Demonstrates His Faithfulness

Christ’s Victory On Calvary Transforms Me From Captive To Conqueror

God’s Love For Me Gives Me Hope For All Eternity

The Unity Of The Church Displays The Effectiveness Of The Gospel For All The World To See

I Am Set Apart By God To Live On Mission For God

Joy Comes Through Living As A Person Of The Word Not The World

All Jesus Has Done For Me Gives Me Unshakeable Security

A Prayer For God’s Glorification Is Answered As I Seek Christ’s Exaltation

Faithful Investing In The Gospel Enables Lives To Be Forever Changed Through The Gospel.

I Will Never Be Content Until Jesus Is Enough For Me

Looking To Christ In Every Situation Provides Peace In Every Circumstance

Peace Is Always Possible For Me When Jesus Is The Top Priority To Me

I Am Standing Firm On Earth When I’m Living As A Citizen Of Heaven

Pursuing Christian Maturity Means Obeying God’s Word Faithfully

My Significance Is Anchored In Jesus’ Supremacy And Sufficiency

Jesus Plus Nothing Equals Everything

Our Lord Is Mightier Than Any Trial We Will Ever Face

God Blesses His People So That More May Become His People

God’s Plan Of Redemption Provides Me Hope In Every Situation

There Is No True Restoration Without Genuine Repentance

My Victory Comes Through Dependency

Unlimited Hope Comes Through Unhindered Faith

No Mess Is Too Big For The Mercy Of God

God Works In And Through Ordinary People Working Together For The Gospel To Accomplish His Extraordinary Purposes

My Daily Faithfulness Drives My Gospel Effectiveness

Being Set Apart By God Means Standing Out For God

Pursue Humility By Remembering Who Christ Is And What He’s Done.

There Is No Unity Without Humility

The Pathway To Personal Holiness Is Paved With Gospel Willingness

True Living Isn’t The Absence Of Death But The Presence Of Christ

My Earthly Circumstances Always Accomplish God’s Eternal Purposes

The Goal Of Gospel Partnerships Is Gospel Growth For God’s Glory

When The Gospel Binds Us, God’s Joy Fills Us

Living Worthy Means Exhibiting Unity And Embracing Kingdom Responsibility

If Jesus Builds It, People Will Come

The Unfailing Faithfulness Of Our God Fuels Our Fervent Prayers To God

A World Full Of Bad News Is Still Transformed Through Jesus’ Good News

Unashamed Worship Flows From A Heart That Chooses To Revere God For His Greatness And Trust In God’s Goodness

God Uses Unapologetic Preaching To Apply His Word To His People And Advance His Gospel

I Am Transformed By The Love Of God To Advance The Kingdom Of God

True Satisfaction Is Only Experienced Through Living With Conviction For God From A Heart Of Adoration To God

A Life Devoted To God Is Continually Filled With Joy From God

True Spiritual Repentance In My Heart Leads To A Practical Response With My Life

My Heart Is Realigned Towards God When I Live A Lifestyle Of Repentance

When God’s Word Is Central In My Life, God’s Joy Is The Strength For My Life

Who God Is To Me Should Generate A Heart Of Worship Within Me

Faithfulness To God’s Word Produces Perseverance For God’s Work.

Fearing God Reverently Means Stewarding God’s Resources Faithfully

Devotion To Worship Drives Dedication To Mission

Kingdom Building Requires A Committed Heart And A Faithful Life

Remembering God’s Greatness Empowers Me To Fight With Confidence

True Restoration Begins With A Genuine Heart Transformation

A Desire To Glorify The Name Of God Is Demonstrated By Making A Commitment To Do The Work Of God

Trusting The Reality God Is With Me Empowers Me To Embrace Daily Gospel Opportunity

Preparation To Work For God Begins With My Heart’s Desire To Revere God

A Heart Committed To Caring Is A Heart Committed To Acting

Jesus Is Alive And That Changes Everything For Me Today

The Finality Of Jesus’ Victory Sets Me Free For All Eternity

Living In God’s Victory Means Being In Marked By God’s Mercy

The Path To Living In Victory Is Paved With Humility

The Difference Between Standing And Falling Is Obeying

A Life Saved By God’s Truth Will Live Out God’s Truth

The Easy Way Is Never The Best Way To Live God's Way

When I Ask God Acts

True Disciples Love Others In Humility Not Judge Others In Hypocrisy

Anxiety: Cast It Don't Carry It

How I Handle My Money Demonstrates How Much I Value To God

The Focus Of Fasting Must Be Feasting On God

: My Daily Needs Require Daily Prayer

God’s Loving Holiness Empowers Me To Approach Him In Prayer With Unshakeable Confidence

Jesus Points The Way

Hope In My Waiting Comes As I Trust God Is Always Working

My Hope Grows As I Hear And Share The Good News Of The Gospel

Hope Emboldens Me To Obey Faithfully During Times Of Uncertainty

When Life Overwhelms Me, God’s Presence Provides Hope For Me

In My Brokenness I Find Hope In God’s Goodness And Faithfulness

Righteous Living Flows From My Heart's Authentic Desire To Worship God, Not To Be Worshipped By Man

The Character Of Christ Must Be Displayed Through The Conduct Of My Life

Marriage Was Designed For Our Joy And For God’s Glory

Having A Pure Heart Requires Me To Take My Sin Of Lust Seriously

Living Right With God Requires Getting Right With Others

True Righteousness Flows From A Pure Heart

A Life Truly Transformed By God Faithfully Impacts The World For God

After God Makes Peace For Me, He Wants To Make Peace Through Me

Truly Desiring God's Righteousness Leads To Continually Demonstrating God's Mercy

Embracing My Need For God Allows Me To Experience The Blessings Of God

The Christian Should Be The Freest Of All Men In His Liberties But A Servant To All Men in His Love

Living Faithfully Leaves A Lasting Legacy

Trusting God’s Heart Fully Allows Me To Display God’s Character Faithfully

Faith In God's Promises Gives Me Courage To Face My Giants With Confidence

Because God Has A Greater Purpose For My Pain, I Do Not Lose Heart When I Experience Suffering

I Am Saved By The Grace Of God To Reflect The Glory Of God

When God's Presence Is My Pursuit, God's Glory Becomes My Priority

Worshipping God Truly Means Destroying My Idols Completely

A Heart That Loves God Above All Will Obey God's Law In All

God's Holiness Demands My Reverence

No One Can Or Should Do Everything, But Everyone Can And Should Do Something

God's Might Gives Me The Confidence To Engage In The Fight

Exodus 15:22-17:7

Big Idea: Gratitude Should Always Be My Attitude

Lessons From The Wilderness:

God makes bitter things sweet (15:22-27)
God’s provision is always sufficient for me (16:1-17:7)

God’s Provisions:
a) Displays God’s glory (16:7, 9-12)
b) Meets my daily needs (16:13-30)

“The whole commandment that I command you today you shall be careful to do, that you may live and multiply, and go in and possess the land that the Lord swore to give to your fathers. And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not. And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.”
-Deuteronomy 8:1-3

c) Is sweet (v. 31)
d) Is my testimony (v. 32-36)
e) Fuels my generosity (2 Corinthians 8-9)

Why We Grumble (17:1-7):
1) False expectations
2) Selective memory
3) Improper perspective
4) Control issues
5) Trust issues

Sermon Notes

Exodus 15:1-21

Big Idea: We Worship Because Of Who God Is And What God Has Done

Our God Is:

Glorious In Triumph (v. 1)
Awesome In Deeds (v. 11)
Majestic In Holiness (v. 11)
Steadfast In Love (v. 13)
To Be Feared (v. 14)
On The Throne (v. 18)

Common Excuses For Why I Don’t Worship:
1) It’s just not me
2) I can’t sing well
3) I don’t feel like it

A Heart Of A True Worshiper:
1) Makes time to worship
2) Takes time to worship

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’ And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God for ever and ever! Amen!”
-Revelation 7:9-11

Sermon Notes

Exodus 13:17-14:31

Big Idea: Trusting God Continually Is My Pathway To Victory

My Pathway To Victory:

Recognize & Follow God’s Leading (13:17-14:4)

3 Places To Look For God’s Leading:
1) The Holy Spirit
2) God’s Word

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will straight your path.”
-Proverbs 3:5-6

3) Wise Counsel

Learn To Trust God Continually (14:5-18)

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
-Psalm 20:7

3) Step Out In Faith Confidently (14:15-31)

“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me His own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
-Phillippians 3:12-14

Sermon Notes

Exodus 11-12

Big Idea: Remembering God’s Deliverance Gives Me Confidence

Always Remember (Exodus 11-12):

1) My Situation (11:1-10)

“For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.’ So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.”
-Romans 9:15-16

2) My Fresh Start (12:1-2)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. the old has passed away; behold the new has come.”
-2 Corinthians 5:17

“But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the works you did at first.”
-Revelation 2:4-5

3) My Sacrificial Substitute (12:3-28)

“For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”
-1 Corinthians 5:7-8

My Response To Christ’s Sacrifice:
1) Faith (v. 7)
2) Readiness (v. 11)
3) Remember (v. 14)
4) Celebrate (v. 14-20)
5) Share (v. 26-28)
6) Worship (v. 27-28)

4) My Deliverance (12:29-51)

I Can Be Confident That:
1) God will deliver me (v. 29-32)
2) God will provide for me (v. 33-37)
3) God’s salvation is available to me (v. 38-51)

Sermon Notes

Exodus 5-7:7

Big Idea: When Life Gets Hard Stick To God’s Plan

When Life Gets Hard:

1) Respond With Obedience (5:1-9)

I Deviate From God’s Plan When (v. 2):
1) I disregard the Lord
2) I deny the Lord
3) I disobey the Lord

2) Remember God’s Faithfulness (5:10-6:08)

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.”
– Isaiah 26:3-4

“For all the promises of God find their Yes in Him (Jesus). That is why it is through Him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.”
– 2 Corinthians 1:20

3) Renew My Resolve (6:9-7:7)

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
– 2 Corinthians 5:20-21

God’s Promises That Renew My Confidence:
1) Need wisdom: James 1:5
2) I can resist the devil: James 4:7
3) I can be saved: Romans 10:9-10
4) Need mercy & Grace: Hebrews 4:16
5) Overcome grief: Psalm 30:5
6) I am forgiven: 1 John 1:9
7) Strength for today: Lamentations 3:22-24
8) Peace amidst anxiety: Philippians 4:4-7
9) I am loved: Romans 8:37-39
10) I am family & free: Romans 8:12-17

Sermon Notes

Exodus 4:18-31

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
-2 Timothy 1:7

Big Idea: God’s faithfulness empowers me to face my fears with confidence and obedience

God’s Faithfulness Empowers Me To Face:

Fear Of Man (v. 18)

“You shall not be in dread of them, for the Lord your God is in your midst, a great and awesome God.”
-Deuteronomy 7:21

Fear Of The Cost (v. 19-23)

“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
-Psalm 118:6

3 Fears I Face Following Christ:
1) The price is too high
2) The mission is too hard
3) The consequences might be too much

“He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.”
-1 Thessalonians 5:24

3) Fear Of My Past (v. 24-26)

4) Fear Of Failure (v. 27-31)

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid…I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”
-Psalm 27:1, 13-14

Sermon Notes