Prairie Bible Church Messages: Recent Episodes
Prairie Bible Church
Prairie Bible Church is a non-denominational, Christian church located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Our mission is; "Help people grow their faith through a simple, authentic representation of Jesus' love". We hope you will enjoy hearing these inspirational, faith based messages to enrich your life and help grow your faithwww.prairiebible.org
As Christians, we worship the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In the unity of the Godhead, these three Persons execute distinct but harmonious offices in our redemption. Romans 8:1–4 is one of the rare places in the Bible where we see all three Persons of the Trinity executing these roles together. In this message, we will focus on the role of the Father in the great work of redemption.
Take-Home Message: The great work of redemption is the great work of the Triune God.
The Father’s Role in my Redemption:
- The Father’s Plan: The Father planned my redemption.
- The Father’s Sending: The Father sent His Son to condemn sin in the flesh.
- The Father and the Son’s Sending: The Father and the Son sent the Holy Spirit to fulfill the law.
- The Father and the Son’s Seeking: The Father and the Son seek the lost.
- The Father’s Listening: The Father hears my prayers.
- The Father’s Freedom: The Father has mercy and compassion on whomever He chooses.
- The Father’s Securing: The Father will secure the redemption of all things.
As Christians, we worship the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In the unity of the Godhead, these three Persons execute distinct but harmonious offices in our redemption. Romans 8:1–4 is one of the rare places in all the Bible where we see all three Persons of the Trinity executing these roles together. In this message, we will focus on the role of the Son, Jesus Christ, in the great work of redemption.
Take-Home Message: The great work of redemption is the great work of the Triune God.
The Son’s Role in my Redemption:
- Christ’s Pardon: The Son took on my death sentence.
- Christ’s Power: The Son sets me free from sin and death.
- Christ’s Control: The Son holds all things together, allowing for my continued redemption.
- Christ’s Example: The Son suffered the most as an example for me to follow.
- Christ’s Intercession: The Son advocates for His people.
- Christ’s Gifts: The Son gives leaders for the building up of His church.
- Christ’s Return: The Son will return to fully redeem His people.
As Christians, we worship the Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In the unity of the Godhead, these three Persons execute distinct but harmonious offices in our redemption. Romans 8:2–4 is one of the rare places in all the Bible where we see all three Persons of the Trinity executing these roles together. In this message, we will focus on the role of the Holy Spirit in the great work of redemption. The Holy Spirit is not a force; He is a Person that wills, feels and thinks. He is also God, worthy of the same honor and equal in divinity with the Father and the Son. We will examine the ways in which the Holy Spirit has set us free from the law of sin and death, and how the Holy Spirit continues to set us free from sin and death.
Take-Home Message: The great work of redemption is the great work of the Triune God.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in my Redemption:
- The Spirit of Life: The Holy Spirit, in Christ Jesus, sets me free from sin and death.
- The Spirit as Convictor: The Holy Spirit convinces me of my need for Jesus.
- The Spirit as Regenerator: The Holy Spirit regenerates me.
- The Spirit of Adoption: The Holy Spirit bears witness to my adoption into God’s family.
- The Spirit as Renewer: The Holy Spirit renews my life.
- The Spirit of Truth: The Holy Spirit teaches me the truth.
- The Spirit of Grace: The Holy Spirit distributes unmerited favor to me.
- The Spirit as Intercessor: The Holy Spirit intercedes for me in my prayers.
- The Spirit as Helper: The Holy Spirit helps me live out my walk with Christ.
- The Spirit as Equipper: The Holy Spirit equips me for the building up of the church.
- The Spirit as Seal and Guarantee: The Holy Spirit seals and guarantees me for eternal life in Christ.
Romans 8 is among the most famous chapters in all the Bible. Christians have hoped and found freedom in these words for centuries. This glorious chapter begins with a verse often quoted today: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (8:1) But what does that mean for followers of Jesus? In this message, we will define condemnation’s biblical meaning, trace its use through Romans, then spend most of our time applying what it means for the believer’s life today.
Take-Home Message (Romans 8:1): There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
A Biblical Definition of Condemnation: The judicial verdict of condemnation issued against a guilty party. It describes the divine sentence that looms over all humanity because of Adam’s fall and our universal sin. It can also be translated as “death sentence.”
Tracing Condemnation Through Romans:
- Condemnation enters through Adam’s sin.
- Condemnation is universal.
- Condemnation is conquered by Christ’s act of righteousness.
- Condemnation is replaced with Christ’s righteousness for the believer.
- There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
What Does No Condemnation in Christ Jesus Mean for Believers?
- My eternal condemnation is removed.
- Evaluation of my life remains.
- Conviction replaces my condemnation.
- I am freed to confess my sin.
- Evangelism and missions matter.
- I worship Christ Jesus because He freed me from condemnation.
Romans 6 held up the great victory we have over sin through our union with Christ. Because we have been crucified with Christ, we have been set free from sin (6:6–7). Now, Romans 7:14–25 deals with the reality of remaining sin. While believers are already justified in Christ, we are not yet fully delivered from indwelling sin. Three times in these verses, Paul speaks of sin still dwelling in us even after our conversion. In other words, there is still a war in us between the law of God and the law of sin (7:25). The decisive victory has been won, but we are still called to fight! In this message, we will discuss the good that comes from the believer’s ongoing war with indwelling sin.
Take-Home Message: Sin no longer rules over me, but sin still dwells within me.
Two Truths for Believers:
- I am already justified in Christ.
- I am not yet fully delivered from indwelling sin.
Two extremes to Avoid:
- Perfectionism: The idea that I can be made perfectly holy and completely free from sin in this life.
- Defeatism: The idea that I cannot make progress in the Christian life.
The Believer’s War with Indwelling Sin:
- My war with indwelling sin teaches me to delight in God’s Law (21-23).
- My war with indwelling sin prepares me for final deliverance through Christ (24-25).
- My war with indwelling sin equips me to turn and strengthen others (Lk. 22:31-32)
Romans 6 held up the great victory we have over sin through our union with Christ. Because we have been crucified with Christ, we have been set free from sin (6:6-7). Now, Romans 7 deals with the reality of remaining sin. While we are already justified in Christ, we are not yet fully delivered from indwelling sin. Three times in Romans 7, Paul speaks of sin still dwelling in us even after our conversion. In other words, there is still a war in us between the law of God and the law of sin (7:25). The decisive victory has been won, but we are still called to fight! In this message, we will discuss why this passage is about our present Christian experience, and the good that comes from our war with indwelling sin.
Take-Home Message: Sin no longer rules over me, but sin still dwells within me.
Evidence that Paul is speaking of the present Christian experience:
- Paul uses I, me, and my 39 times, and he speaks in the present tense.
- Paul speaks of the present Christian experience in a similar way elsewhere.
- Paul speaks of his pre-Christian experience in a radically different way elsewhere.
- The sequence of Romans 7:25 points to the present Christian experience.
The Believer’s War with Indwelling Sin:
- My war with indwelling sin vindicates God’s Law (14, 16).
- My war with indwelling sin teaches me to hate sin (15).
- My war with indwelling sin cultivates humility (24).
After explaining the Gospel in Romans 1-5, Paul turns to dealing with distortions of its message. In Romans 6, he defended God’s grace. Now in Romans 7, he defends God’s Law. Paul knew that his statements about the Law in Romans may lead critics to suggest he thought the Law was bad. Yet he shouts in Romans 7:12, the Law is good! God’s Law serves His purposes by exposing sin, yet sin seeks to seize this good Law and use it to kill us. Paul’s argument that the Law is good, but the Gospel is better, will reach a crescendo in Romans 8:3-4– “For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
Take-Home Message: God’s good Law exposes sin, but only His Gospel can defeat it.
In Defense of the Law:
- The Law is not sinful; it exposes sin (7).
- The Law is not sinful; it is seized by sin (7b-8)
- The Law is not sinful; it is sin that kills me (9-13).
Take-Home Lessons:
- God’s Law is good.
- Sin can use good things for bad purposes.
- Sin kills me by lying to me.
- How does sin use the Law to lie to me?
- The lie of self-righteousness– I can keep the Law well enough to save myself.
- The lie of self-indulgence– I cannot keep the Law well enough to save myself, so I might as well get all the fleeting pleasure out of life that I can.
- How does sin use the Law to lie to me?
- The Gospel defeats sin where the Law could not.
The term “law” occurs eight times in Romans 7:1-6, and it is among the topics of greatest confusion for believers today. What is the believer in Jesus’ relationship to the Law of Moses and the entire Old Testament? What do we do with this giant first chunk of our Bibles? These verses show us that, while the law is good (Rom. 7:12), Jesus is better. In other words, the New Covenant is better than the Old Covenant. For you “have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God.” (Rom. 7:4)
Take-Home Message: Believers have been joined to a better husband.
The Purpose of the Law (1-3)
- What is the purpose of the Law?
- A Teacher: The Law teaches me about the Lawmaker.
- A Mirror: The Law reveals my sinfulness.
- A Guardian: The Law prepares me for Christ.
- A Christ-Exalter: The Law reveals and exalts Jesus.
The Believer’s New Way of Life (4-6)
- The Believer’s New Way of Life:
- Believers have been released from our old way of life (5).
- Believers have been joined to a better husband (4).
- Believers are joined to Christ to bear fruit for God (4).
- Believers bear fruit through the Holy Spirit (6).
From beginning to end, the Bible presents two paths, one leading to death and one to life. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). It is only in Christ Jesus that a person finds life, and the evidence that a person is in Christ is their spiritual “fruit.” What fruit are you producing, and what does it say about the path you are on? “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13–14).
Take-Home Message: You are either on the path leading to death or the path leading to life.
- The path leading to death (20–21).
- Believers, Unbelievers, and Shame:
- Believers are not ashamed of Jesus.
- Believers are ashamed of past sins.
- Unbelievers take pride in what is shameful.
- Believers and unbelievers have historically held opposing views of what is shameful.
- In the end, believers will be vindicated, and unbelievers will be put to shame.
- The path leading to life (22–23).
- Roadblocks to Good Fruit:
- “I don’t know the Bible.”
- “I don’t know how to put it into practice.”
- “I don’t want to put it into practice.”
Paul began his letter to the Romans in a rare way, calling himself a slave (doulos) of Christ. He does this only two other times in his letters (Phil 1:1 and Titus 1:1). Doulos (slave) means someone who belongs to another, without any ownership rights of their own. We American Christians love our freedom, and may bristle at the idea that we are slaves. Yet, doulos is used with the highest dignity in the NT – namely, of believers who willingly live under Christ's authority as His devoted followers. In Romans 6:15-19, Paul urges us to embrace our slavery to God through the righteousness found in Christ. Freedom isn’t about having no constraints, it’s about having the right constraints, the ones that actually free us. Slavery to sin is a cruel master, but slavery to God leads to true freedom. For Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:34-36).
Take-Home Message: True freedom is found in presenting yourself to God.
The freedom of presenting yourself to God (15-16).
We are all slaves.
We are slaves of the one whom we obey.
Slavery to sin leads to death.
Slavery to God leads to life.
The freedom of presenting your heart to God (17-18).
The freedom of presenting your members to God (19).
Finding Freedom:
Gather
Study
Pray
Praise
John Owen famously said, “Be killing sin, or sin will be killing you.” The war with sin connects us with all people of all times, because the sin problem is timeless and universal. None of our technological advances have fixed our sinful nature, guilty conscience, or separation from God. What makes Romans relevant today is that it speaks to this seemingly impossible issue. The key to killing sin lies in answering this question: Who is King of your life?
Take-Home Question: I cannot kill sin without a new King.
The War Against Sin (12-13)
The War: Between God and Sin
The Battleground: Your Body
The Options
Present your members to sin as weapons of unrighteousness
Present your members to God as weapons of righteousness
The Question: Who is King?
God’s Victory Over Sin (14)
Living in God’s Victory Over Sin
Reject sin’s reign by treasuring God (12).
Resist the body’s sinful desires (12).
Run toward righteousness (13).
Remember whose you are (14).
Paul spent the first several chapters in Romans laying out bedrock truths of Christianity. Now in Roman 6:11, he gives a strong imperative command: Consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God. This is not a suggestion, but a “must.” Why is it so important? Because being alive to God is the entire purpose of our dying to sin. As one pastor put it, "The glory of Christian redemption is that it is in union with Jesus that we are given back our true selves. We finally begin becoming who we were truly created to be."
Take-Home Message: In Christ, I must consider myself dead to sin and alive to God.
In Christ, I will be eternally alive to God (8-9).
Realities of the Resurrection:
We will never die again.
We will have transformed bodies.
We will never grieve again.
We will be renewed.
We will live in renewed creation.
We will be with our loved ones who died in Christ.
We will be rewarded for every loss endured for Christ.
We will never experience war again.
We will witness true justice.
In Christ, I must be presently alive to God (10-11).
Romans 1–5 communicates the radical truth that, by faith in Christ’s righteousness alone, apart from any works of our own, we have been declared right with God. Paul ends Romans 5 in the clearest terms possible: “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Rom. 5:20). Not only is this teaching controversial, it is dangerous. Why? Because some may assert that it leads to rampant sinning. However, Paul answers such misunderstandings. To those who would assert, “Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound?” Paul responds with the strongest Greek negative available: “By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?”
Take-Home Message: In Christ, I am dead to sin.
- In Christ, I am dead to the pattern of sin (1–4).
- In Christ, I am dead to the position of sin (5).
- In Christ, I am dead to the power of sin (6–7).
Take-Home Lessons:
- In Christ, my pattern is replacing sin’s lies with God’s Word.
- In Christ, my position is not sinner but saint.
- In Christ, my power is God’s justification.
America may be the most individualistic culture in the world, which makes these verses hard for us to understand. We often think of sin as an individual problem that needs individual remedies, but Romans 5:12–21 teaches that it runs much deeper. Paul states that humanity’s ultimate problem is we have inherited Adam’s sin nature. Truly, the apple has not fallen far from the tree.
Christianity is the story of another Man’s righteous act overcoming Adam’s transgression. The God-man, Jesus Christ, sacrificed Himself to provide the free gift of grace for all who place their faith in Him. Christ’s act of righteousness far surpasses Adam’s transgression, and now grace abounds to all who trust in Jesus. “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 8:1)
Take-Home Message: Life in Christ defeats death in Adam.
- Death through Sin in Adam (12–14)
- Life as a Free Gift in Christ (15–17)
- Life in Christ Defeats Death in Adam (18–21)
Take-Home Lessons:
- We must embrace the reality that we are children of Adam.
- We must embrace the righteousness that is only found in Christ.
- We must embrace the reign of our new life in Christ.
If God did the harder thing, He will do the easier thing. Paul makes this point with a “greater to lesser” argument: “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” (Rom. 5:10). When we are tempted to doubt God’s ability to bring about our final salvation, we should remember the length to which God already went to secure it. Paul then stresses that we have “now” received reconciliation, reminding us that our salvation is not merely a future but also a present reality. What should our response be to this immeasurable gift? To rejoice! The Bible commands Christians to rejoice, so much so that our refusal to do so is disobedience.
Take-Home Message: I have future assurance because of God’s past work.
God’s past work ensures my final salvation (9-10).
God’s past work evokes my present rejoicing (11).
Take-Home Lessons:
Rejoicing is commanded, not suggested.
If God did the harder thing, He will do the easier thing.
Reconciliation is finished, but I must receive it.
Romans 5:6-8 provides a radical demonstration of God’s love for us: the sacrifice of His Son for ungodly, undeserving sinners. Paul began Romans with the phrase “the gospel of God” (Rom. 1:1), reminding us that our salvation is just as much a story about the Father as it is about the Son. Jesus did not come to earth to convince a begrudging Father to accept us; He partnered with a loving Father to save us. “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom. 5:8)
Take-Home Question: Do you grasp how much God loves you?
Christ died for us while we were still weak (6).
Christ died for us at the right time (6).
Christ died for us while we were still, ungodly, undeserving, sinners (6-8).
Take-home Lessons:
God shows His love for you in the death of Christ.
God loves you because He loves you.
God’s ways of loving you don’t always appear loving in the moment.
I am convinced that no matter how old you are, where you come from, or what you’ve been through, there are things that everyone wants. We all want, desire, and long for peace. We all want access to the supernatural in some way, shape, or form. We know that we cannot avoid suffering, so at least we want it to mean something in this life. Lastly, all of us, deep down, whether we admit it or not, want to be loved.
It’s no secret that we want these things—but the question is how do we obtain these things? The world will tell us a million ways to attempt to obtain these things; but in the end, we will never be satisfied. On the other hand, these verses in Romans 5:1-5 will show the only way to truly obtain these things: through Jesus Christ.
BIG IDEA: The life you always wanted is only available through Christ.
- Through Christ, I have peace with God (1)
- Through Christ, I have access to God (2)
- Through Christ, I rejoice in my suffering for God (3-5a)
- Suffering → Endurance → Character → Hope
Through Christ, I rest in the love of God (5b)
For many, the word “faith” sounds foolish. We hear this in phrases like “blind faith” or “taking a leap of faith.” But our faith as Christians is far from foolish because of Who our faith is in: the Promise-Keeping God of the Universe. The Bible says, “The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (2 Chron. 16:19). God is always searching for opportunities to strengthen those who trust not in themselves but in Him.
Take-Home Message: Don’t have faith in yourself.
Have faith in God by surrendering to His righteousness (13-15).
Surrendering My Self-Righteousness:
Prayerlessness
Perfectionism
Pharisaism
Have faith in God by hoping in His promises (16-22).
Have faith in God by depending on His power (23-25).
The resounding message of the gospel is this: “Come home.” Christ’s resurrection provides the pattern for those who come home: Just as Jesus was put to death on the cross, my old self is put to death. And, just as Jesus was raised to life, I become a new creation. But none of this can happen until I come to my senses, turn from my sin, and come home. Jesus did not come to earth to convince a begrudging Father to accept us; He partnered with a loving Father to save us. The Father planned our salvation, the Son accomplished it, and the Holy Spirit applies it.
Take-Home Message: The Father longs for you to come home.
The Younger Son’s Rebellion (11-13).
The Younger Son’s Ruin (14-16).
The Younger Son’s Repentance (17-20a).
The Father’s Response (20b-24).
For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God - 1 Peter 3:18
Thank you for joining us for Good Friday.
Believers in Jesus Christ have won the lottery. The only difference is that our prize is far greater: we are declared right with God, all our debts are forgiven, and we are promised eternity in heaven. We could never earn or deserve any of these, a fact that was especially radical in Paul’s day. There was a belief in Judaism that salvation came by obedience to God’s Law, but Paul put forth that no one but Jesus could fulfill the Law. Paul then showed his Jewish brethren that their father Abraham was saved by faith before the Law was given (Gen. 15:6).
Because God has credited us with a righteousness we have not earned and wiped out a debt we could not pay, the only proper response is for us to follow Jesus. We are called to “walk in the footsteps of the faith” like Abraham: “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:8-10).
Take-Home Message: God credits righteousness to my account through faith.
God credited to me a righteousness I did not earn (1–5).
God forgave the debt I did earn (6–8).
God calls me to follow in the footsteps of the faith (9–12).
The footsteps of the faith is a well-worn trail.
The footsteps of the faith are not walked alone.
The footsteps of the faith include the cross but end in glory.
A danger that can occur in the heart of the believer is to shrink the message of salvation down to merely intellectual and spiritual information that has no virtually effect on their life. With this in mind, we must remember that Romans is a real letter, penned by a real person (Paul), to a real church. You see, Paul does not want to only impart doctrine to the Romans. He desires that this salvation, which he just explained in 3:21-26, would apply to their everyday lives. This is why Romans 3:27-31 is in our Bibles.
May these verses challenge us to see that salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone is a reality that applies to every aspect of everyday life.
BIG IDEA: Salvation is meant to be applied to my life.
Salvation applied means…
My boasting is excluded (27-28)
Common Causes of Boasting
Our Allies
Our Abilities
Our Achievements
Our Accolades
What We Should Boast In
Boast in the Lord (1 Cor. 1:31)
Boast in the Cross (Gal. 6:14)
Boast in Our Weakness (2 Cor. 12:9)
Boast in Our Suffering (Rom. 5:3-5)
My bias is eliminated (29-30)
My obedience is essential (31)
This passage has been famously called “the greatest paragraph ever written”–and rightfully so. It explains how sinful humanity can be saved from the wrath of God. Paul spent Romans 1:18–3:20 talking about humanity’s problem: sin. Because of this sin against a just God, the wrath of God is coming. We often forget that the wrath of God is kind, for if God did not address the problem of evil, who could? Now, in Romans 3:21–5:21, Paul focuses on God’s solution to the problem of sin: sending Christ. In putting forward Christ, we see the fullness of God’s justice and love. In His justice, God requires payment for evil, but, in His love, He provides the payment in His Only Son. Some have slanderously charged God with “divine child abuse,” but Christ makes it clear that He voluntarily gave Himself up: “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” (Jn. 10:18). If someone were to ask you today, “How am I saved?” The Bible provides the answer: by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
Take-Home Message: I am saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
I am saved in Christ alone (21–22).
I am saved by grace alone (23–24).
I am saved through faith alone (25–26).
Take-Home Lessons:
My reception of God’s righteousness is possible in Christ, but only in Christ.
My redemption through God’s righteousness is a gracious gift.
My response to God’s righteousness must be faith in Christ.
Many believe that we can make ourselves righteous with enough effort. In Romans 3:9-20, God’s Word emphatically rejects this, stating that “No one is righteous, no, not one.. no one does good, not even one.. for by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight.” The difference between Christianity and every other religion is that Christianity claims we’re declared righteous by what Someone Else did. As one scholar put it, justification is outside-in, not inside-out. We are saved by something outside of us: Jesus’ finished work on the cross. God chose to save us in a way that made it abundantly clear we had nothing to do with it: “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom. 5:8)
Since Romans 1:18, Paul has been telling us that the wrath of God is coming. God’s wrath will deal with all unrighteousness, and all will be held accountable to God. When God’s wrath comes, the Bible says, “the kings of the earth and the great ones and the generals and the rich and the powerful, and everyone, slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains, calling to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?” (Rev. 6:15-17) There is only one escape from the wrath of God, “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.” (Rom. 10:9)
Take-Home Message: I cannot save myself.
All are under sin (9)
The corruption of all mankind (10-12)
The harmful speech of all mankind (13-14)
The evil actions of all mankind (15-17)
No fear of God in all mankind (18)
All will be held accountable (19-20)
Take-Home Lessons
No one relying on their own works will be saved from the wrath of God.
All who are “in Christ” will be saved from the wrath of God.
We value those who hold it together when everyone else is wavering, and we cherish the person who remains faithful despite others not holding up their side of the bargain. These qualities are marks of God. The Bible describes God as a rock, fortress and stronghold (Ps. 18). God always remains faithful, even when His people do not. He remains righteous when His people do not. He remains just when His people do not. He often gets His work done in spectacular ways, not only without our help, but despite us: For “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom. 5:8) Sadly, many today still question God’s judgment, asking questions like, “How could a good God show wrath? The better question is, how bad would the world be without God’s wrath against evil? If God did not deal with evil, who would? Who could? Not only should we not question God’s judgment, we should celebrate it. “Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth.” (Ps. 67:4)
Take-Home Message: God is just.
God is faithful, despite our unfaithfulness. (1-4)
God is righteous, despite our unrighteousness. (5-6)
God is just, despite our injustice. (7-8)
Take-Home Lessons
God’s faithfulness should inspire us to greater faithfulness.
God’s righteousness will be glorified through my righteousness or my unrighteousness.
God’s justice should be celebrated.
Circumcision was “the single clearest distinguishing feature of the covenant people.” When the gospel reached the Gentiles, a controversy broke out among the Jews, with some declaring, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” (Acts 15:1). Paul dealt with the issue of circumcision throughout his entire ministry. He was an expert in the Scriptures and a former Pharisee, so he was uniquely positioned by the Holy Spirit to bring clarity to the true meaning of circumcision. As the Holy Spirit-inspired author of Romans, he stated: “For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.” (Rom. 2:28-29)
Circumcision was a good thing, but it became a bad thing when the Jews sought to attach it to the finished work of Christ as necessary for salvation. As followers of Jesus, we must guard against creating any system that attaches human efforts to Christ’s finished work. Even good things, like baptism and communion, have been attached by some to the finished work of Christ as necessary for salvation. We reject this view (Eph. 2:8-9), while seeking to uphold the crucial and essential nature of Biblically mandated Christian rituals. Jesus was circumcised and placed Himself under the Law. He perfectly kept the Law and thus redeemed those under the Law (Gal. 4:4-5). We are now in Christ! “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.” (Gal. 5:6)
Take-Home Message: Circumcision is a matter of the heart.
Circumcision Explained
Circumcision Illustrated (25-27)
Circumcision Applied (28-29)
We must emphasize coming to Jesus and following Jesus as the true evidence of a believer.
We must guard against adding requirements to the gospel.
We must strive for unity with Christians of different backgrounds.
Ash Wednesday is an invitation for us to “examine ourselves to see whether we are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5). As we begin the Lenten season and seek deeper communion with Christ, we look to Hebrews 3:12-15 for some examination.
How many stories have you heard of someone who loved Jesus, served Jesus, was active in the church, maybe even a leader in the church—and then seemingly out of nowhere, fell away from not only the church, but Jesus as well? This should cause you to think, How does this happen? Why does this happen?
You see, the drift into spiritual apathy is a slow one—and it could happen to you, too. Hebrews 3:12-15 reveals to us the process by which it can happen and how to avoid it. This is one of the reasons why the book of Hebrews was written: to urge and encourage believers to persevere in their walk with Christ as our anchor, lest we fall away too.
May the Spirit of God soften our hearts, convict us of sin, and awaken us from spiritual slumber to take real inventory of our hearts, minds, and lives that we would follow Christ truly and wholeheartedly.
BIG IDEA: I will either persevere with Christ or fall away from Christ.
How to Fall Away from Christ
Never check your heart (12)
Ignore warnings (13a)
Live in sin (13b)
How to Persevere with Christ
Share in identity of Christ (14a)
Hold firm to faith in Christ (14b)
Listen to Christ’s voice today! (15)
Almost everyone knows someone whose reason for leaving God was “those Christians are hypocrites.” While this will not stand up as a sufficient excuse on Judgment Day, Paul acknowledges that the hypocrisy of God’s people is both real and tragic: “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”
Paul does not let anyone off the hook. After critiquing the sinfulness of all people (1:18 - 2:1-16), he now focuses on the most committed of his own people, the Jews. Both Jesus and Paul, who were Jewish, critiqued their own tribe. Paul did this from the perspective of someone who used to be a hypocrite himself. He was “a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee…as to righteousness under the law, blameless.” Yet, he still coveted (Rom. 7:7-8).
The beauty of the gospel is that we no longer need to hide. Christ calls us to come into the light, which is the greatest “hypocrisy disinfectant.” We can confess when we don’t live up to God's perfect law and receive grace and mercy. Through faith in Christ, we now live a life of transparent obedience to God’s law. The gospel reconciles our private and public lives through God’s grace, leading Christians to be “an open book, easily read.”
Take-Home Message: Hypocrisy leads to blasphemy.
Does my character match my credentials? (17-20)
Building Integrity
Pursue private formation over public performance.
Do I practice what I preach? (21-23)
Building Integrity
Examine yourself before correcting others.
The Result of Hypocrisy (24)
Romans 2 is a sobering reminder of the reality of God’s judgment and our inability to keep God’s Law perfectly. God’s judgment is not like a human courtroom or judge. God knows everything, even our thoughts. God judges perfectly and He will not give preference or deference to anyone. These truths are humbling and they should grab our attention but they should also remind us of Jesus. Jesus is the only person in the history of mankind to actually keep God’s Law. Jesus said in Matthew 5:17 “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.” Jesus Christ and His perfect righteousness is the only way anyone will escape God’s coming judgment.
Take-Home Question: What will be your defense on Judgment Day?”
- Things that will not save you:
- “Who you are” will not save you (11)
- Your track record will not save you (12-13)
- Ignorance will not save you (14-15)
- Hiding your sin will not save you (16)
- God takes sin seriously — some history
- God’s wrath is avoidable
- 2 Peter 3:9
- Romans 10:13
- 1 Thessalonians 1:10
- Revelation 20:12
We love it when people speak the truth about what we align with. Whether it be our favorite sports team, political affiliations, our take on pop culture drama—when someone says something we align and agree with, we love to champion that. In the study of Romans so far, there have been many truths preached that many people in our church align and identify with, therefore, love and feel great about what is being preached.
The danger is this: there are some who sit in this church week after week and think only about how horrible the world is, how awful other people are, or how depraved our culture is, all the while thinking that they are absolutely fine, in no danger at all, and no need of self-evaluation. If you are that person—this message is for you. Coming off the heels of seeing how the wrath of God is revealed against all unrighteousness, Paul now turns his attention to the individual: “Therefore, you have no excuse, O man” (Romans 2:1). These verses expose how we are all under the righteous judgment of God outside of Christ. May we take heed of the exposing nature of these verses and “not neglect so great a salvation” (Hebrews 2:3).
BIG IDEA: I can’t fool God.
- How I Try to Fool God (1-5)
- Hypocrisy (1-3)
- Presuming on God’s Kindness (4)
- Hardness of Heart (5)
- Two Eternal Paths (6-11)
Luke 5:32 : “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”
If you look at the world and wonder what has gone wrong, Romans 1:18-32 gives us the answer. Though God revealed Himself to us, humanity rejected Him, and the result has been a slide into deeper and deeper darkness. Later in Romans, Paul describes the progression out of foolishness for those who are now in Christ: “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)
Take-Home Message: Christ’s wisdom is the only antidote to my foolishness.
We Became Fools Through…
- Futile Thinking (18-22)
- Humanity’s Progression Toward Futile Thinking
- Revelation (19-20)
- Rejection (21a)
- Result (21b-22)
- A biblical definition of “futile” (Mataioó)– describes the movement from God-given awareness to empty, self-centered thought. In Romans 1:21, it stands as a decisive verdict on humanity’s intellectual and moral collapse: “they became futile in their thinking”. The term captures the tragic exchange of God’s glory for worthless speculation, exposing the hollowness that results when truth is suppressed.
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False Worship (23)
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Foolish Living (24-32)
- A biblical definition of “give approval” (Suneudokeó) – To give hearty approval, identify with, feel gratified with. Across its six occurrences, syneudokeō portrays a shared stance—whether righteous or sinful—between individuals or groups. It always implies more than passive agreement; it conveys an active, moral participation that forges communal solidarity around a deed or decision. In Romans 1:32, syneudokeō indicts societies that institutionalize sin by celebrating its practitioners.The term issues a dual summons: resist aligning with evil and intentionally align with righteousness. Christian maturity therefore includes vigilant evaluation of all associations, ensuring that consent is given only to what honors the Lord.
Christ Makes Us Wise Through…
- Renewed Thinking (Romans 12:2a)
- Reasonable Worship (Romans 12:1)
- Righteous Living (Romans 12:2b)
When the Bible speaks of being ashamed, it is more than just a feeling of humiliation or embarrassment. It refers to public dishonor and a loss of dignity. Perhaps you have had a moment or two like that, where you have been truly ashamed, not just embarrassed or humiliated, but publicly dishonored and stripped of dignity. Maybe it was something you once did, something you are doing, or something done to you.
There are plenty of things in this world that we could be ashamed of, but there is one thing that we, as believers, must absolutely not be ashamed of: the gospel of Jesus Christ. What we see in these verses is that living a life truly unashamed of the gospel frees us from our shame and allows us to live wholly devoted to and focused on Christ because of all He has done for us. May we stand with Paul and say, “I am not ashamed of the gospel.”
BIG IDEA: Followers of Jesus must be unashamed of the gospel.
What is the Gospel?
The good news that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came into the world to save sinners from eternal death and give eternal life, both now and forever.
I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel (16a)
Why Would I Be Ashamed of the Gospel?
• The gospel creates opponents
• The gospel brings suffering
• The gospel affects relationships
I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel for Everyone (16b)
I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel of Faith (17)
Paul authored Romans in the winter of AD 57-58 during a three month stay in Corinth (Acts 20:3) near the end of his third missionary journey. At the time of writing, Paul had collected an offering from Gentile churches to help the Jewish Christians in Judea. His plan was to take this offering to Jerusalem as soon as the weather was suitable, then to travel from there to Rome.
Paul expressed his desire to go to Rome as early as Acts 19:21 (AD 57), and expressed it emphatically in Romans 1:8-15 during his stay in Corinth (AD 57-58), but he would not reach Rome for about three more years, as a prisoner (Acts 28:14). These three years contained numerous difficulties, including a beating and plot against his life by his own people, a two-year imprisonment in Caesarea, a shipwreck, and being bitten by a deadly snake on Malta. Paul’s arrival in Rome took place in AD 60-61, and tradition holds that he was martyred there not long after, between AD 64-67. Paul’s longing as he awaited a face-to-face encounter with the Roman Christians contains tremendous lessons for our own journey with Christ.
Take-Home Message: Paul’s longing contains lessons for my journey with Christ.
Three Lessons From Paul’s Longing to Go to Rome
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God’s will transcends my plan. (8-10)
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Our faith should mutually encourage each other. (11-12)
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We are under obligation to preach the gospel to everyone. (13-15)
Throughout history, the Lord has used Romans to save many giants of the faith. Augustine, Martin Luther, John Wesley, and numerous others have experienced the glory of the gospel through this God-inspired letter. Romans contains the longest introduction of any of Paul’s letters: a staggering 71 words between Paul’s name and the name of his recipients. His greeting contains a lengthy description of the gospel, setting up a letter devoted to unpacking the gospel’s beauty and glory. The book of Romans should elicit wonder in us about the magnificence of God’s plan to save us which He formed in eternity past. It should lead us to the same response that Paul experienced when he was overcome with emotion at the greatness of God: “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!” (Rom 11:33)
According to a simple Google search, there are roughly 245 million Christians in the United States. By this statistic, two out of every three people you know are Christians, but we all know that this is not true. One can claim to be a Christian and yet not know or love Christ at all. Rather than thinking this is only an out-in-the-world problem, we must recognize that this is also an in-the-church problem. Many people have been in church their entire lives and yet do not know or love Christ at all. The goal of this sermon is not to condemn, but to cause all of us to examine ourselves and ask an important question: Am I a real Christian? Thanks be to God that Colossians 3:1-17 shows us what it means to be a real Christian.
BIG IDEA: The mark of a real Christian is a transformed life.
Real Christians
• Look up (1-4)
• Kill sin (5-11)
-How to Kill Sin
-Scripture (Romans 8:13, Ephesians 6:17)
-Fasting (Matthew 6:16-18)
-Confession (James 5:16)
• Live new (12-17)
The phrase “righteous and devout” occurs only once in the Bible, and it is used to describe Simeon. While we do not know much about this great man historically, we do know that Simeon loved God and His people. He was waiting on God to comfort Israel, and he was waiting on God’s plan for his own life: that before he died, he would see Jesus. Simeon not only worshiped God when he saw God’s Son, he also warned us. Simeon’s words remind us that some will reject Jesus and fall to eternal judgment, while others will embrace Jesus and rise to eternal life. He also warns followers of Jesus that life will be hard because Jesus is rejected by this world. Most importantly, Simeon reminds us that our thoughts toward Jesus reveal our thoughts toward God. At the name of Jesus, will you rise or fall?
Take-Home Message: Simeon’s Savior is the Savior of the world.
Simeon Waits (22-26)
• Simeon was
• Righteous and devout (25)
• Waiting for God to rescue and comfort His people (25)
• Holy Spirit inspired (25)
• Waiting on God’s plan for him (26)
Simeon Worships (27-33)
Simeon Warns (34-35)
• Simeon warned
• About the fall and rising of many (34)
• About the rejection of Jesus and His followers (34-35)
• About the revealing of my heart toward God (35)
Ecclesiastes is written by a “Preacher.” This Hebrew word, Qoheleth, pictures a speaker standing before an assembly to deliver an important message. The Qoheleth, King Solomon, was no ordinary preacher. He was the wisest man on earth. “And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore, so that Solomon’s wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was wiser than all other men.” After a life of successes and failures, Solomon leaves us the words he most wants us to remember: “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.”
Take-Home Message: Obedience to God is everyone’s entire duty.
The Preacher’s Process (9-10)
The Preacher’s Source (11)
The Preacher’s Warning (12)
The Preacher’s Conclusion (13-14)
After all has been heard, the entire duty of mankind is to obey God, because God will bring all deeds into judgment, including everything hidden, whether good or evil.
One key theme of Ecclesiastes is that life’s problems and pain should not stop us from enjoying life’s blessings. As followers of Jesus, we can be "sorrowful, yet always rejoicing." But Ecclesiastes teaches that the only way to have sustainable, true joy is by living within God’s boundaries. God’s Word is not a prison; it is a fence of protection against the devastating consequences of sin. King Solomon tells young people to enjoy the physical prime of life with all of the excitement and opportunities in front of them, but he warns them to remember that someday God will evaluate all of their deeds. He also tells us to remember God in the days of our youth rather than waiting until the pain and problems of old age seize us. One way the church can accomplish the task of remembering God is through ministries that include intergenerational fellowship. The old are reminded by the young to rejoice in life, and the young are reminded by the old to remember God.
Take-Home Message: Enjoy life, but remember God.
Rejoice! (11:7-10)
- Rejoice despite dark days (7-8)
- Rejoice in your youth (9-10)
...But Remember (12:1-8)
The Importance of the Intergenerational Church
- The old are reminded by the young to rejoice in life
- The young are reminded by the old to remember God
The Bible is a book that contains lessons for every area of life, including how we invest our money. God not only gave Solomon wisdom, He gave him more riches and possessions than any king before or after him (2 Chronicles 1:12). God used Solomon, the human author of Ecclesiastes, to teach us timeless lessons for how to view the financial markets. In a sinful and broken world, the stock market will remain volatile and uncertain. There is only one person who completely understands it, and that is God. He is the one we must turn to for the greatest investment advice.
Take-Home Message: I must follow God’s investment advice, or I will pay the price.
A Biblical Definition of Investment: The allocation of resources, whether time, money, or talents, with the expectation of a future return or benefit.
God’s Investment Advice
• Give it Time (1)
• Diversify (2)
• Don’t Delay (3-4)
• Work Diligently (5-6)
What Keeps Me from Following God’s Investment Advice?
• Impatience (1)
• Too Much Risk (2)
• Too Much Caution (3-4)
• Negligence (5-6)
There was a man who had so much promise. He came from a powerful, wealthy, and good looking family with parents who loved him. He was favored and put in a position of authority at a young age over a great kingdom. Most importantly, God greatly loved him. God gave him wisdom, wealth, and honor far beyond anyone of his time. God even appeared to him two times. God gave him everything, but this man ruined his life. He turned away from God until he nearly lost it all. This man’s name is Solomon, and he wrote us a book called Ecclesiastes to tell us, "Don't do what I did. Don't ruin your life."
Take-Home Message: Wisdom keeps me from ruining my life.
How to Ruin My Life
- Destroy My Reputation (1-3)
- Avoid Conflict (4)
- Follow the Wrong Influences (5-7)
- Think I'm Invincible (8-11)
- Speak Carelessly (12-15)
- Indulge Constantly (16-20)
The more we try to control everything around us, the more out of control everything seems to become. That is because there is no escape from life’s sudden pressures and dangers. Our money, status, even wisdom and righteousness cannot insulate us from all the disasters that happen in the world. We only need to look back to 2020 to find an event that happened unexpectedly and forever changed our lives. Life’s unpredictability humbles us and forces us to acknowledge the limits of our own understanding. God uses time and chance to show us a better way forward than trusting ourselves: “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 make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Take-Home Message: Time and chance redirect my trust.
Time and Chance Explained (11-12)
A Biblical Definition of Time and Chance: The unpredictable elements of life that happen to everyone, regardless of status, wisdom, or righteousness. In context, it may refer to the sudden pressures and dangers of life.
21st Century Examples of Time and Chance
• 2001 – The September 11 Attacks
• 2007 – Apple releases the first iPhone
• 2008 – The Financial Crisis
• 2020 – The COVID-19 Pandemic
Biblical Examples of Time and Chance
• Joseph and the preservation of God’s people (Genesis 50:20)
• Ruth and the lineage of God’s Son (Ruth 4:17)
• Esther and the deliverance of God’s people (Esther 4:14)
Time and Chance Illustrated (13-18)
Time and Chance Applied
• I cannot always win, but I can always be wise.
• I cannot always understand, but I can always trust God.
• I cannot always be in control, but I can always be confident that God is in control.
Most people do not like to think about death, especially their own. Death makes us uncomfortable, and the thought of it seems to take the fun out of life. But there is great value in meditating on our death. It reminds us that we don’t have forever to do the things that really matter. One day, we will wake up and realize that we don’t have as much time as we thought. The sooner we come to that realization, the wiser we will live. “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
Take-Home Message: Remembering my death results in a wiser life.
How to Live Like I’m Dying
• Find My Anchor (1-3a)
• My Anchor: I’m in God’s hand
• My Kingdom Work is in God’s hand (2 Tim. 4:6-8, Heb. 6:10)
• My Eternal Life is in God’s hand (John 10:28)
• Flee From Evil (3b-6)
• Finish My Race (7-10)
One of the marks of our age is a rejection of authority.
This rejection has led to a lack of respect for God and the government he appoints. Obedience to God and government, in that order, leads to great blessing. If we are to respect the authorities God places in our lives, we must start with a healthy respect for God Himself.
To fear the Lord does not mean that a Christian lives in constant fear of punishment. Instead, it means to live with reverence, awe and respect for God. This leads to humility, obedience, confidence, trust, and security. Fear God, and you will have nothing else to fear.
Unless the governments commands force us to disobey Gods commands, we should obey the government that God has appointed. This respect for government reflects our reverence for God Himself.
“Be subject for the Lords sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” (1 Peter 2:13-17)
Take Home Message: Obedience to authority leads to blessing and life.
Obey Government (1-9)
• God and Government
• God Appoints Government Authorities
• Don't Stand for an Evil Cause
• Obey God Before Government
• When should we disobey government? When the governments commands force us to disobey Gods commands.
Fear God (10-13)
• What fearing God does not mean: To be a Christian that lives in constant fear of punishment.
• A biblical definition of the fear of the Lord: A reverence, awe and respect for God that leads to humility, obedience, confidence, trust, and security.
Enjoy Life (14-17)
There are many ditches and potholes to be avoided on life’s path, and we are all prone to one or the other. Some live recklessly and die young, while others beat themselves up over things that are not even sin. There are also those who are experts at pointing out wrongs in others but never examine themselves. Solomon points out that the cause of all this is our sinful hearts: “See, this alone I found, that God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes.” Biblical wisdom wants us to avoid these pitfalls and live a life of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. This life of true wisdom only comes from a relationship with Jesus. For in Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
Take-Home Message: God alone knows the path of wisdom.
The Foolishness of Being Overly Righteous (15-18)
A Misunderstanding of the Sufficiency of the Gospel
The Foolishness of Being Overly Reckless (15-18)
A Misunderstanding of the Seriousness of the Gospel
The Foolishness of Being Self-Righteous (19-22)
A Misunderstanding of My Need of the Gospel
The Problem of Sin (23-29)
The Bible holds up wisdom as one of the greatest treasures that we can receive. It says, “The Lord founded the earth by wisdom and established the heavens by understanding.” Yet, most people check out on wisdom—they’d rather live by their own code. “For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools.”
The Bible tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. If we want to be wise, we must go to its Founder: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Wisdom’s principles can be difficult and require discipline, but the stakes are too high to ignore: “If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.”
Take-Home Message: God alone knows the path to wisdom.
A biblical definition of wisdom: The God-centered ability to discern what is truly right and act accordingly. This includes practical insight, technical skill, administrative competence, and relational discernment. The Bible first grounds all true wisdom in the character of God.
The Place of Wisdom (1-6)
Places Where Wisdom is Found
Funerals more than Parties (1-4)
Sorrow more than Laughter (3, 6)
Constructive Criticism more than Constant Affirmation (5)
The Protection of Wisdom (7-14)
Life is tough, and when we make bad choices, it’s really tough. Our suffering is not merely because of destiny or the devil; sometimes we suffer for our own dumb decisions. We see this in Israel’s story. Like parents who want their kids to succeed, God longed for Israel to thrive rather than only suffer, “Oh that they had such a heart as this always, to fear me and to keep all my commandments, that it might go well with them and with their descendants forever!” We will inevitably suffer in this life, Jesus told us that. But are there ways you are suffering today that God wants you to avoid? “For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.” (1 Peter 3:17)
Take-Home Message: Not all suffering is necessary.
The Suffering of Dissatisfaction (1-9)
What makes me dissatisfied with the fruit of my work?
Envy (4:4)
Greed (5:13-14)
Stinginess (5:13-17; 6:3-6)
Discontentment (6:7-9)
Take-Home Lesson
Find satisfaction in Christ.
The Suffering of an Unwillingness to Accept God’s Plan (10-12)
Take-Home Lesson
Surrender to God’s plan.
The Bible does not say that money itself is a root of all kinds of evils. It says that the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. The question is not, “Do you have money?” It is, “Does money have you?” Wealth, when enjoyed within God’s boundaries, is a blessing to our lives.
We often underestimate how much a love of money has taken hold of our hearts. Solomon warns us that the worship of money will leave us empty in the end. “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” (1 Timothy 6:17)
Take-Home Message: The worship of wealth is vanity.
The Reality of Corrupt Wealth (8-9)
The Vanity of Hoarding Wealth (10-17)
The Blessing of God-Given Wealth (18-20)
Take-Home Lessons
Don’t be surprised by corruption (8-9).
Be generous with your wealth (10-17).
Enjoy wealth within God’s boundaries (18-20).
To fear the Lord means to stand in reverence and awe of Him; it means to respect Him. God is our “Abba, Father,” but He is also the Creator and Ruler of the universe. We often forget this and end up speaking rashly or making commitments to God that we don’t keep. Solomon warns us against approaching God carelessly.
Jesus warns us against this, too: “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil” (Matthew 5:33-37).
What does the way that I approach God say about my view of Him?
Take-Home Message: How I approach God reveals how I view God.
- When I approach God, I should listen before I speak (1-3).
- When I approach God, I should keep my word (4).
- When I approach God, I should consider before I commit (5-7).
One reason that Solomon was called wise is that he did not ignore the reality of evil in the world.
He acknowledged it and lamented it. In a world where overwhelming evil threatens to overcome
us, we are called to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Jesus was relentless in doing
good: saving, rescuing, forgiving, healing, etc. So let us not grow weary of doing good, for in
due season we will reap, if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9).
Take-Home Message: Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Do not be overcome by…
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The Evil of Oppression (1-3).
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Overcome Evil with…
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The Good of Biblical Justice.
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The Evil of Selfish Ambition (4-12).
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Three Approaches to Work
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The Competitive Workaholic (4)
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The Impoverished Sluggard (5)
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The Contented Laborer (6)
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Overcome Evil with…
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The Good of Biblical Community.
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The Evil of Stubbornness (13-16).
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Overcome Evil with…
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The Good of Biblical Humility.
One of the hardest things to understand about God is His timing. So many of our questions come from a desire to know why God does what He does when He does it. His timing can feel messy, uncertain, and confusing. But Ecclesiastes reminds us that God’s timing is perfect. Ecclesiastes 3 is the preeminent chapter in all the Bible about God’s timing. It gives us a glimpse into how His timing works and what we can know about it. Many years after this chapter was written, God showed His love for us by entering into the messiness of time in the person of Jesus Christ. “When the right time came, God sent His Son.” (Galatians 4:4)
Take-Home Message: God is the author of time.
God’s timing is beautiful (1-11a).
God’s timing is mysterious (11b-13).
God’s timing is permanent (14-15).
God’s timing is just (16-22).
“What’s the point?” That is Solomon’s conclusion after considering the fruit of all his hard work and wisdom. Even when all our work and discipline pay off and we accomplish all our goals, the reward often leaves us wanting. If God is not at the center of our ambitions, our work will not lead to fulfillment. But God does bless the work of the one who keeps Him at the center.
“There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, for apart from him who can eat or who can have enjoyment? For to the one who pleases him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy, but to the sinner he has given the business of gathering and collecting, only to give to one who pleases God.” (Ecclesiastes 2:24-26a)
Take-Home Message: My fulfillment is determined by my choice of worldliness or godliness.
The Vanity of Worldly Discipline (12-17)
Worldly Discipline: I can live forever.
Godly Discipline: I can make the most of my time.
The Vanity of Worldly Work (18-23)
Worldly Work: It all depends on me.
Godly Work: It ultimately depends on God.
The Blessing of Life with God (24-26)
"I would like to buy about three dollars' worth of gospel, please. Not too much – just enough to make me happy, but not so much that I get addicted. I don't want so much gospel that I learn to really hate covetousness and lust. I certainly don't want so much that I start to love my enemies, cherish self-denial, and contemplate missionary service in some alien culture. I want ecstasy, not repentance; I want transcendence, not transformation. I would like to be cherished by some nice, forgiving, broad-minded people, but I myself don't want to love those from different races. I would like enough gospel to make my family secure and my children well behaved, but not so much that I find my ambitions redirected or my giving too greatly enlarged. I would like about three dollars' worth of gospel, please." – D.A. Carson.
If we want true fulfillment, we must desire more than "three dollars' worth" of gospel. We must go all in on godliness.
Take-Home Message: My fulfillment is determined by my choice of worldliness or godliness.
The Vanity of Worldly Wisdom (1:12-18)
Worldly Wisdom vs. Godly Wisdom
Worldly wisdom – I can play the role of God.
Godly wisdom – Fear God and turn away from evil.
The Vanity of Worldly Pleasure (2:1-3)
Worldly Pleasure vs. Godly Pleasure
Worldly pleasure – God doesn't want me to have fun.
Godly pleasure – God gives me true pleasure.
The Vanity of Worldly Materialism (2:4-11)
Worldly Materialism vs. Godly Management
Worldly materialism – I'm an owner.
Godly management – I'm a manager.
“I've often said that I wish people could realize all their dreams and wealth and fame so that they could see that it's not where you’ll find your sense of completion.” -Jim Carrey. Solomon had everything that the world values: wisdom, women, money, power, possessions, and prestige. Yet, Solomon was empty. Reflecting on his life, he cried, “Vanity of vanities… vanity of vanities! All is vanity.” The message of Ecclesiastes is simple: If God is not in the picture, our own kingdom building will always lead to the feeling of, “There’s gotta be more than this.” Many years after Solomon, God did something truly new: He sent His Son in the flesh to give us a real life of meaning. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)
Take-Home Message: Without God, all is vanity.
A biblical definition of “Vanity”– Literally, a wind, breath, mist or vapor. Metaphorically, something that is empty, futile, fleeting or elusive.
Common Meanings of “Vanity” in Ecclesiastes
-
Futility– “striving after the wind”
-
Fleeting– “passes like a shadow”
-
Perplexing– the idea of obscure, dark, difficult to understand, enigmatic
Solomon’s Battle with Vanity (1-2).
The Vanity of My Life and Legacy without God (3-11).
Message: All is Vanity
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
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The first question Peter asked Jesus after he’d been restored was, “Lord, what about this man?” While Peter should have been focusing on Jesus’s plan for his life, he fixated on John. Jesus said to Peter, “What is that to you? You follow me!” We can spend our whole lives obsessively comparing ourselves to others rather than focusing on God’s plan for us. Jesus wants to spare us that. He has a unique calling on your life that is full of blessings. So let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith. (Hebrews 12:2)
Take-Home Message: Following Jesus requires focusing on Him.
- Jesus endures my constant comparing (20-21).
- Jesus decides my unique calling (22-23).
- How do I stay focused on my unique calling?
- Mind my own business.
- Make time for God to reveal my unique calling.
- Listen to the guidance of other Christians.
- Jesus eludes my complete knowledge (24-25).
Have you ever done something so shameful, so embarrassing, so disgusting, so bad, so sinful,
that all you wanted to do was run away and hide? Now put yourself in the shoes of Peter where
that very moment has occurred. After closely following Jesus for three years, in Christ’s darkest
hour, Peter denied even knowing Him. Not once, not twice, but three times. Although Peter once
said, “even if I have to die with you, I will not deny you” (Matt 26:35), he still did.
Imagine living with that kind of guilt, weight, and burden. For some, you don’t have to imagine.
I’ve failed Jesus too many times, you think. You still come to church, you still believe that Jesus
is who He says He is—but you are convinced that because of what you have done, you cannot
be useful for the name of Jesus.
This is why we need a Bible. And praise God for passages like John 21:1-19. For those who
believe that their story is over, know this: your failure does not have the final say—Jesus does.
This is a story about the heart of Jesus—the One who pursues disciples who have denied Him,
abandoned Him, and let Him down. What does He do with them? Jesus restores.
BIG IDEA: Jesus restores.
1) Peter Retreats (1-3).
- Lies that Cause Us to Retreat (And the Truths to Combat Them)
- LIE: God couldn’t love me // TRUTH: Romans 5:8
- LIE: God can’t forgive me // TRUTH: Hebrews 7:25
- LIE: God doesn’t want me // TRUTH: Ephesians 2:10
2) Peter Remembers (4-14).
- Peter remembered…
- When Jesus called him (John 21:4-6; Luke 5:4-8).
- When he denied Jesus (John 21:9, John 18:18).
3) Peter Restored (15-19).
- Why does God restore me?
- I’m restored to strengthen others (21:15-17, Luke 22:31-32).
- I’m restored to glorify God (21:18-19).
- I’m restored to follow Jesus (21:19).
When the Gospel of John uses the word “believing,” it is always as a verb (98 times). That cannot be a coincidence. For John, believing is an action, and it drives every other action in our lives. When we go astray, there is often something we are believing wrongly about God. For this reason, what you believe is the most important thing that you do in your life.
Thomas had been loyal to Jesus before the cross, saying to the other disciples when Jesus was going back to Judea: “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” But Thomas was not with the other disciples when the risen Jesus showed up to them in a locked room. When he heard the report, he refused to believe that Jesus was risen until he saw the evidence for himself. Jesus pursues Thomas, and John uses Thomas’ story to set up the purpose for the entire Gospel of John: “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)
A biblical definition of “believing in Jesus”: To trust in and rely on Jesus with the implication that actions based on that trust follow.
Take-Home Message: Believe in Jesus and you will have life.
Believe in Jesus, the One who pursues the unbelieving. (24-28)
- Thomas’ Journey
- Loyal Thomas (Jn. 11:7-8,16)
- Searching Thomas (Jn. 14:3-5)
- Unbelieving Thomas (Jn. 20:25)
- Believing Thomas (Jn. 20:28)
Believe in Jesus, the One who blesses the believing. (29)
Believe in Jesus, the One who invites the unsatisfied. (30-31)
- The Life that Jesus Offers Me
- His life is of the Spirit.
- His life is light.
- His life is eternal.
- His life escapes judgment.
- His life is secure.
- His life is unending satisfaction.
- His life is abundant.
- His life involves sacrifice.
- His life is the only life.
Message: Jesus and Thomas
Scripture: John 20:24-31
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Among the greatest evidence for Christ’s resurrection is the rapid change in His followers. The disciples went from a group of timid, fearful men to bold followers who died for Jesus. How do we explain this? The answer lies in the fact that they saw the risen Christ after His death. Over a period of 40 days between Christ’s resurrection and ascension, He appeared to as many as 500 eyewitnesses. “It is not enough for the skeptic, then, to simply dismiss the Christian teaching about the resurrection of Jesus by saying, ‘It just couldn’t have happened.’ He or she must face and answer all these historical questions: Why did Christianity emerge so rapidly, with such power? No other band of messianic followers in that era concluded their leader was raised from the dead—why did this group do so? No group of Jews ever worshipped a human being as God. What led them to do it?... How do you account for the hundreds of eyewitnesses to the resurrection who lived on for decades and publicly maintained their testimony, eventually giving their lives for their belief?” (Keller) When we experience the risen Christ, our fear becomes peaceful confidence and our timidity becomes boldness. We proclaim a risen Christ that overcomes our slavery to fear. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Tim. 1:7)
Take-Home Message: The risen Christ conquers my slavery to fear.
Christ’s Post-Resurrection Appearances in the Gospel of John:
- To Mary Magdalene at the tomb– Sunday morning (Jn. 20:11-18)
- To the 10 disciples without Thomas– Sunday evening (John 20:19-25)
- To the 11 disciples with Thomas– Eight days later on Monday (John 20:26-29)
- To 7 disciples by the Sea of Galilee– “After this” (John 21:1-25)
The Savior’s evidence turns my fear into peace. (19-21a)
- Lee Strobel’s four questions
- Was Jesus really dead?
- Did believers invent this story?
- Was the tomb actually empty?
- Did people actually see Jesus alive?
The risen Savior gives peace to the…
- The doubter.
- The insecure.
- The weary.
The Spirit’s empowering turns my fear into calling. (21b-23)
Message: Jesus Appears to the Disciples
Scriptures: John 20:19-23
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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It’s hard to fathom how Jesus’s followers felt immediately after his death. When He secretly appeared to His saddened followers on the road to Emmaus, they said, we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel (Lk 24:21). When Jesus died, their hopes died with him. But at the empty tomb, hope was found again! The empty tomb remains the Christian’s symbol of hope. Whenever we are tempted to see Christ’s promises as empty, all we need to do is look to the empty tomb. “He is not here, for he has risen, as he said” (Matt. 28:6).
Take Home Message: Because the tomb is empty, I have hope.
- I have hope because I remember the promises of Christ (1-10).
- Jesus promised that…
- He will not reject you.
- He will make Himself known to you.
- He will answer you.
- I have hope because I encountered the risen Christ (11-16).
- I have hope because I announce the ascended Christ (17-18).
- We announce the ascended Christ to the…
- Discouraged: “I’ll never be good enough.”
- Distrusting: “No one’s good enough.”
- Depressed: “Why even try?”
Message: The Resurrection
Scripture: John 20:1-18
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus’s death and burial means that I must die to myself. I won’t experience His power until I surrender my former way of life. To be raised to new life, the old self must die and be buried. That means coming to Jesus is about surrender. For “those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Gal. 5:24).
When we met Nicodemus in John 3, he was a scared and lost man. He was drawn to Jesus, but he came to Him by night because he was not ready to let go of his former way of life. Nicodemus now takes part in burying Jesus’s body, signaling that his old self was dead and new life had arrived! “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).
Take-Home Message: Jesus’s finished work has finished me.
Jesus’s death petitions me to die (28-30).
“It is finished” means…
- Separation is finished.
- Sin is finished.
- Satan is finished.
- Death is finished.
- I am finished.
Jesus’s piercing permits me to be passed over (31-37).
- Bible references: 1 Jn. 5:6-8; Jn 7:38-39; Nu 9:12; Ex 12:46; Ps 34:20; Zech 12:10; 13:1
Jesus’s burial prepares me for a new life (38-42).
Message: It is Finished
Scripture: John 19:28-42
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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When Jesus gets up on the cross, He gets up on His throne. Jesus is King because He did what no one else can do. No one else can say they’ve never sinned. No one else has perfectly kept the law. No one else has completed a greater act of love than the cross. Christ’s cross marked a turning point in history. It changed the world. But have you allowed it to change your life? When you begin to grasp that Jesus went through all of this suffering because He loves you, it will change your life. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” -Romans 5:8
Take-Home Message: King Jesus was crucified to free me from condemnation.
King Jesus was…
- Crucified for the Condemned (16b-18).
- Crucified by His own people (19-22).
- Lessons for the Church
v The greatest threats come from the inside, not the outside.
v Spiritual pride is the worst form of pride.
v Failure happens when we fear man more than God.
- Crucified to fulfill Scripture (23-24).
- Crucified for His followers (25-27).
Message: The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
Scripture: John 19:16b-27
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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True authority is God-given. It is not based on position or title. Anyone looking in on the meeting between Pilate and Jesus from a worldly perspective would see Pilate as the authority, and they would be wrong. The carpenter’s Son from a disrespected town and a poor family is the real authority in the room.
We not only live in a post-truth society, we also live in a post-authority society. The world, and sadly even Christians, often mock Jesus’ authority and seek to dethrone Him in our lives. But the Bible says that all authority in heaven and earth has already been given to Jesus, and someday even those who reject his authority will be forced to acknowledge it.
Take-Home Message: Christ the King reigns over all.
Jesus Christ is…
- The King who is mocked (1-6).
- How is Jesus mocked today?
- Portraying Jesus irreverently for our amusement
- Exploiting Jesus for our agenda
- Bearing Jesus’ name falsely for our assurance
- The King who has authority (7-11).
- The King who was crucified (12-16).
Message: Pilate Before Jesus: Part 2
Scripture: John 19:1-16
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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We still talk about the Roman Empire to this day—but did you know that the Bible speaks of the Roman Empire too? Daniel 7:7 says, “…behold, a fourth beast, terrifying and dreadful and exceedingly strong. It had great iron teeth; it devoured and broke in pieces and stamped what was left with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it…” The Roman Empire was a kingdom known for conquering and crushing everyone around them—no one else was like them, they were different from every kingdom that had come before it. This was the kingdom that Jesus lived under in the 1st century and was now face to face with in John 18. What we’ll see is that even as terrifying, dreadful, and exceedingly strong the Roman Empire was, they were no match for Christ the King who was reigning over them and everything in the universe. This is just as true then as it is now.
BIG IDEA: Christ the King reigns over all.
Jesus Christ is…
- The King who is misunderstood (18-32).
-
Why did Pilate try to release Jesus?
- He was stressed about Christ’s Passover (John 6:15, 12:12-13)
- He was impressed by Christ’s character (Mark 15:4-5)
- He was distressed by his wife’s dream (Matthew 27:19)
- He was pressed by his fear of judgment (John 19:11-12)
- The King who is from another world (33-38).
- The King who was rejected (39-40).
Message: Jesus Christ & Pontius Pilate: Part 1
Scripture: John 18:28-40
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The trial of Jesus is really a trial of all those around him. Peter hits rock bottom as he denies Jesus three times, and Annas fails to grasp his own need for Jesus. Peter’s story is our story: repeated failing, yet restored by the faithfulness of Christ. His story reminds us that Jesus can bring us back from the brink if only we would turn to Him. Our God is high and lifted up, but He also has compassion on those who have hit rock bottom: “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.” (Isaiah 57:15)
Take-Home Message: Christ’s faithfulness triumphs over my failures.
Christ’s faithfulness triumphs over…
My failure to see reality (12-14).
-
The Trial of Jesus
- Phase 1 of Jewish trial: Jesus before Annas (Jn. 18:12-14, 19-23).
- Phase 2 of Jewish trial: Jesus before the Sanhedrin (Matt. 26:57-68).
- Phase 1 of Roman trial: Jesus before Pilate (Jn. 18:28-38a; Matt. 27:11-14).
- Phase 2 of Roman trial: Jesus before Herod Antipas (Lk. 23:6-12).
- Phase 3 of Roman trial: Jesus before Pilate again (Jn. 18:38b-19:16; Matt. 27:15-31).
My failure to follow boldly (15-18).
- Why did Peter deny Jesus?
- Wrong expectation
- Wrong confidence
- Wrong urgency
My failure to recognize authority (19-24).
My failure to stop failing (25-27).
Message: The Trial and Denial of Jesus
Scripture: John 18:12-27
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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As Jesus stared down the barrel of a horrific death– drinking the cup of the wrath of God against all sin– He exhibited stunning courage. Even Judas and the soldiers were compelled to bow at the force of His proclamation, “I AM.” Their forced response to Jesus’ courage should be our voluntary response: to fall down before Jesus in awe. Christ’s courage at the end of His life compels the worship of all. “And being found in human form, he humbled 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 2:8-11)
Take-Home Message: The courage of Christ compels me to worship.
The Courageous Christ…
- Stepped forward into darkness (1-4).
-
Why did Judas betray Jesus?
- Wrong expectation
- Wrong treasure
- Wrong influence
- Stood up for the disciples (5-9).
- Submitted to His demise (10-12).
Message: The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus
Scripture: John 18:1-12
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus knew that His people would struggle with staying together. When we quarrel with other Christians over trivial matters, we look just like the divided world around us. The Bible teaches that there are times when divisions are necessary, and we need the courage to separate when it is for God’s glory. But may we only separate from professing Christians when the Bible tells us to do so. As the High Priestly Prayer concludes, Jesus reiterates His theme: our Union with Him. His earnest prayer throughout has been that we be united with Him. When we are united with Christ and with His people, a divided world takes notice.
Take-Home Message: The Lord’s greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities.
Jesus Prays for Our Unity with Believers (20-23).
When should believers not separate?
- Over trivial differences
- Perceived slights
- To avoid accountability
When should believers separate?
- When professing Christian churches are in obvious error.
- When professing Christians are in sin and unrepentant.
Jesus Prays for Our Union with Him (24-26).
What is Union with Christ?
- NOT God then me
- NOT God not me
- NOT God plus me
- God in me.
Take-Home Priorities
- Be united with Christ.
- Be united with Christ’s people.
Message: Jesus Prays for Us
Scripture: John 17:20-26
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus knew that His Apostles’ battle would continue after He ascended to heaven. Satan would go after them and seek to destroy them. But Jesus prayed to His Father, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.” He wanted them to be in the world, but to be different from the world. Jesus’ prayer for His closest followers reflects His desires for us: that our joy would be full, that we would be protected from Satan, and that we would be set apart for holy service to God. All these things are only found through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Take-Home Message: The Lord’s greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities.
- What is an Apostle?
- The Apostles were those specially chosen and commissioned by Christ to speak with His authority.
- Jesus Prays for His Apostles’ Joy (13).
- Superficial Joy vs. True Joy
- Fake Joy
- Fickle Joy
- Fading Joy
- Forever Joy
- Jesus Prays for His Apostles’ Protection (14-16).
- Jesus Prays for His Apostles’ Sanctification (17-19).
- Sanctify– To be set apart for holy service to God
Take-Home Priorities
- Be forever joyful.
- Be watchful in the world.
- Be set apart by the Word.
Message: Jesus Prays for His Apostles: Part 2
Scripture: John 17:13-19
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus devotes more of His longest recorded prayer to the Apostles than anyone else. He spent a major portion of His ministry on them, because He knew that they would be trusted with continuing His work. Christ’s discipleship model was the opposite of a mile wide and an inch deep. He wanted a few committed followers more than fans. In this prayer, Jesus does not ask His Father to take the Apostles out of the world but to keep them while they are in the world. The Apostles’ success, like ours, was rooted in God’s ability to keep them.
Take-Home Message: The Lord’s greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities.
Jesus Prays His Apostles’ Authority (6-7)
- What is an Apostle?
· The Apostles were those specially chosen and commissioned by Christ to speak with His authority.
Jesus Prays for His Apostles’ Assignment (8)
- Determining My Assignment
· The Holy Spirit
· God’s Word
· Other Christians
· Circumstances
Jesus Prays for His Apostles’ Assurance (9-12)
Take-Home Priorities
-
I must believe and receive
-
I have an assignment
-
I am being kept
Message: Jesus Prays for His Apostles: Part 1
Scriptures: John 17:6-12
Jeremiah 29:11 has had books and countless sermons preach on it over the years.
o Why? Because it’s so aspirational, _____-______ and encouraging!
§ But for that verse to carry its full impact, you must understand the ____________…
Context of the book of Jeremiah:
o God’s people found themselves in a deep hole… a hole that for the most part, they had dug for ____________!
o It was while in this deep hole that God sent His prophet to deliver a message. And what was that message?
§ Well first let’s talk about what it wasn’t….
· It wasn’t the message of a ______________ parent. “It’s ok. I’ll let it slide this time…” Nope!
o God’s message: Choices have _________________ and you’re going to have to deal with them… but…
§ Don’t _______ _____! Because I’ll never give up on you!
· Jeremiah 29:11- I have made plans for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.
God’s lesson for you today:
o Someday you will find yourselves in a deep hole. Therefore:
§ Remember to take _____________ for the choices you’ve made and the _______________ that follow.
· And then remember…
o God ________ gives up on you! Remember, that He has plans for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future!
Message: “I have made plans for you- Part 2”
Scripture: Jeremiah 29:4-11
John 17 is Jesus’ longest prayer in all the Gospels. Think of all the mornings and nights that Jesus spent praying to His Father. It is here, in John 17, that we get a glimpse into the content of those prayers. Jesus was the most selfless person to ever live. He spent His ministry pouring into and praying for others. Yet Jesus also prayed for Himself. John 17:1-5 provides a fascinating look into Jesus’ own prayer requests for Himself and thus what mattered most to Him. As Christ followers, what matters most to Jesus should matter most to us.
Take-Home Message: The Lord’s greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities.
Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer
- Jesus prays for Himself (17:1-5)
- Jesus prays for His Apostles (17:6-19)
- Jesus prays for all believers (17:20-26)
Jesus prays for Himself
- Jesus prays for His glory (1)
§ What does it mean to glorify Jesus?
- “Glorifying” means feeling and thinking and acting in ways that reflect Jesus Christ’s greatness.
Is it righteous for Jesus to pray for His own glory?
- Yes, because Jesus’ glory reflects and magnifies His Father’s glory.
- Jesus prays for His gift (2-3)
- Jesus prays for His work (4-5)
Take-Home Priorities
- Come to Christ
- Glorify Christ
- Participate with Christ
Message: Jesus Prays for Himself
Scripture: John 17:1-5
A good memory is a skill, not a talent, and there are tools/techniques that can help you to develop that skill.
- In our scripture for today, God is using one of those tools to help us remember one of the most important truths in the world!
Isaiah 46:3-11
- “To whom will you alien me too, and compare me, that we might be alike? Those who lavish gold from the purse and weigh out silver to the scales, hire a goldsmith and he makes it into a god… then they fall down and worship! They lift it to their shoulders and they carry it. They set it in place and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble. Remember this and stand firm. Recall it to mind, you transgressors. Remember the former things of old… for I am God and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me!”
What is one of the most important truths to remember?
-
“For I am God and there is no other. I am God and there is none like me!
- God uses a memory technique in this passage to help the people to remember. He uses something very important to them:
- Money!
- God uses a memory technique in this passage to help the people to remember. He uses something very important to them:
God wants us to enjoy the blessings of life!
-
What God doesn’t want, is for us to love our blessings more than the one who gives those blessings.
- So how can we avoid that pitfall?
- GIVE!
Message: “Moonwalking with Einstein”
Scripture: Isaiah 46:3-11
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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There is no way around trouble and suffering in this life. Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation.” Yet He also told us, “But take heart; I have overcome the world.” To take heart means to be courageous. When faced with trouble, we can be courageous because we follow Someone who conquered everything the world threw at Him. Jesus calls His people not merely to survive but to thrive. “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)
Take Home Message: Take Heart! Christ has conquered the world.
- “The world” in John: The sinful world system that opposes God.
Christ’s conquering turned our…
- Sorrow to Joy (16-22)
- Formality to Family (23-28)
- Cowardice to Courage (29-33)
Message: Christ Our Conqueror
Scripture: John 16:16-33
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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-
Most ingredients of any recipe are often distasteful by themselves.
-
But put them all together and you get something WONDERFUL!
- So it is with the ingredients of Easter!
- The Ingredients of Easter:
-
Palm Sunday
- Like sugar its sweet, but strangely unsatisfying.
- The Last Supper
-
Like milk, wholesome and healthy, helping to keep us strong
-
Judas’ betrayal
-
Like vanilla extract, bitter and overwhelming, but necessary to appreciate the flavor of all that will transpire.
-
The torture and humiliation of Jesus
-
Like raw eggs, that make kind of make you sick just to look at it.
-
The crucifixion
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Like baking soda, horrible by itself, but mixed with everything else it will bring about the “rise” that the world celebrates today!
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The ingredients of each of our lives are often distasteful all by themselves. But when mixed together, create something beautiful… if… we give them to Jesus!
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Trust the ingredients of your life to Christ, and you will experience your own resurrection!
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Message: “Recipe for Victory!”
Luke 24:1-8
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Many want to skip over Good Friday and get right to Easter. We want to skip the cross and get right to the empty tomb. But the gospel is a message about blood and sacrifice. To deal with sin, Jesus had to endure sorrow, grief, rejection, torture and death. If we remove these aspects of the gospel, we damage the gospel itself. Without the shed blood of Jesus on the cross, we could not have peace with God. “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” (Hebrews 9:22)
Take-Home Question: What did it take for sinners to be reconciled to God?
What did it take for sinners to be reconciled to God?
- Christ’s Startling sacrifice (52:13-15).
- Christ’s Suffering sacrifice (1-3).
- Christ’s Substitutionary sacrifice (4-6).
- Christ’s Silent sacrifice (7).
Message: He Was Pierced for Our Transgressions
Scripture: Isaiah 52:13-53:7
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Take Home Message: It is better for me that Jesus left, because He has sent the Spirit.
The Work of the Holy Spirit | John 16:4-15
It is better that Jesus left, because…
- The Spirit is now with me (4-7).
The Holy Spirit…
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- Makes me new and holy
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- Convicts me of sin
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- Comforts me in hardship
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- Teaches me what is true
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- Intercedes for me in my prayers
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- Equips me with spiritual gifts
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- Seals me for eternal life in Christ
- The Spirit convicts the world (8-11).
- The Holy Spirit convicts the world…
- Of sin, because they do not believe in me (9).
- Of righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer (10).
- Of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged (11).
- The Spirit has delivered the truth for me (12-15).
Message: The Work of the Holy Spirit | John 16:4-15
Scripture: John 16:4-15
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus said, “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.” Followers of Jesus shouldn’t be surprised when we are hated, because the very Founder of our faith was hated. We do not fit into this world, because we do not belong to this world. This means that life will be hard and our faith will cost us something. But that should not surprise us either, because Jesus’ faithfulness cost Him his life. When our loyalty to Jesus means being hated by the world, may we say with the Apostle Paul, “I am not ashamed of the gospel.”
Take-Home Message: The world hates Christians because the world hates Jesus.
- “The world” in John: The sinful world system that opposes God.
If you are a Christian…
The World Will Hate You (15:18-25)
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Why does the world hate Jesus?
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They do not know His Father (21)
- He exposes the world’s sin (22-24)
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To fulfill God’s Word (25)
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Why does the world hate Christians?
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We are not of this world (19)
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What does it mean to not be of this world?
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Our ultimate loyalty is not to our friends, our family, our company, our country, our race, or our culture. Instead, our ultimate loyalty is to Jesus.
The Spirit Will Help You (15:26-27)
The Savior has Warned You (16:1-4)
Message: Handling The World’s Hatred
Scripture: John 15:18 - 16:4
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Most of us have an “unbiblical” model of prayer!
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For example, many of us mistakenly believe that prayer is simply lifting our request unto God… which it is!
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But prayer is also “listening”!
- In other words, prayer is the center of our “relationship” between us and God!
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John 15:16
- “You did not choose me, I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name He will give it to you.”
Have you ever asked God for something and not been given it?
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If so, what’s going on?
- It all goes back to the word “abide”!
Abide= To be with or to exist with…
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So, to abide with God means that He is the one from whom we receive “life” … a transformed life!
- For example, abiding with God will transform our “prayer life”!
Psalm 37:4
- Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.
Isaiah 55:9
- Just as the heaven are above the earth, so are God’s ways above our ways, and His thoughts above our thoughts.
Message: “A transformed Prayer Life”
Scripture: John 15:9-17
We all have something that we believe will give us life. Exercise, diets, money, accomplishments, family, status, and so much more. The problem is—all of those things will either leave us empty or wanting more. This is where the command of Jesus to abide in Him is so precious. What we will see in these verses is Jesus calling us to find life—true, abundant, fruitful life—in Him. How? By abiding in Him.
BIG IDEA: True life is only found in abiding in Jesus.
I abide in Jesus because…
- He gives me growth (1-2, 4-5).
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What God will prune:
- Sinful things
- Trivial things
- Good things
- He makes me clean (3).
- He keeps me forever (6-8).
Take-Home Questions
- Do I abide in the Vine?
- Am I a true branch?
- Do I bear the fruit of the Vine?
Message: True Life
Scripture: John 15:1-8
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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When God shows up, the whole situation changes. His powerful presence has the ability to conquer everything that would take our peace. In John 14, Jesus reminds His disciples and us that God’s presence is all we need to have true peace. Jesus tells us, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Take-Home Message: My peace is powered by God’s presence.
- Peace to you! Because of God’s Presence (25-27).
- God’s peace provides Christians with…
- Supernatural calm(Col 3:15-16)
- Supernatural protection(Phil 4:6-7)
- Peace to you! Because of God’s Greatness (28-29).
- Peace to you! Because of God’s Victory (30-31).
Message: Peace for Troubled Hearts
Scripture: John 14:25-31
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have you ever felt ill-equipped to serve God? If you have, that feeling may actually be your super-power!
· Today’s passage will show us how…
In verses 21 and 23 Jesus makes very similar statements. To paraphrase He says: “They who hear my words and keep my commandments, love me and my Father loves them.”
· Some have wrongfully interpreted that verse as “work’s righteousness”.
o There is only one thing that makes us righteous and that’s the shed blood of Jesus!
· But if that’s not what Jesus was talking about, what did He mean?
John 14:21b- He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and “manifest” myself to him.
· What does Jesus mean when He says; “I will manifest to you.”? Luckily, one of Jesus’ disciples has the same question:
o John 14:22- Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him; Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?
John 14:23- If anyone loves me, he will keep my word and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
· On the day of Pentecost Jesus’ words were made manifest in the Church, for on that day the Holy Spirit was made available to ALL who would accept Him.
Take home message
God doesn’t need people to do things for Him. He wants people who He can do things through!
Theme: “God, manifest in US!”
Scripture: John 14:18-24
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus doesn’t leave you on your own when times get tough. He provides you with Himself and His powerful promises. The disciples were in the greatest storm they’d ever experienced. Jesus had just told them He was leaving and they couldn’t follow Him now. Soon they would see their Lord betrayed, arrested, tried and crucified. Yet Jesus knew that because they were connected to Him, they could live with confidence. “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him.” (2 Corinthians 1:20)
Take-Home Message: My confidence is built by clinging to Jesus.
The Promise of Knowing God (7-11).
- To know God, know Jesus.
The Promise of Answered Prayer (12-14).
- To receive from God, ask Jesus.
- Praying in Jesus’ name means…
- Praying in the authority of Jesus
- Praying in the character of Jesus.
- Praying in the will of Jesus.
The Promise of the Holy Spirit (15-17).
To Live in God’s power, Obey Jesus.
Message: Confidence for Troubled Hearts
Scripture: John 14:7-17
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus knew what it meant to be troubled. He was troubled when his friend Lazarus died (Jn. 11:33). He was troubled when he considered the cross (Jn. 12:27). He was troubled when he thought of Judas’ betrayal (Jn. 13:21). He told his followers, “In this world you will have trouble.” He knew that we too would face seasons of emotional distress. Yet Jesus also provided the solution: Himself. He said, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Jn. 16:33)
Take-Home Message: My troubled heart will not rest until I rest in Jesus.
- Jesus provides empathy for my troubled heart (1).
- Jesus provides security for my troubled heart (2-3).
- Jesus provides the security of…
- Eternity in Heaven (2).
- Adoption by the Father (2).
- Union with Christ (3).
Jesus provides Himself for my troubled heart (4-6).
- Jesus Himself is…
- The “I AM”
- The Way
- The Truth
- The Life
- The Only Way
Message: Comfort for Troubled Hearts
Scripture: John 14:1-6
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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When it comes to the story of Jesus washing the disciple’s feet, it feels like the Church has exhibited “selective hearing”!
o In today’s passage Jesus tells us why we should pay closer attention!
John 13:18-30
o In this part of our passage Jesus is demonstrating that it’s been prophesied that that He would be betrayed! (Psalm 41:9)
§ In other words, He’s NO victim! This is part of the PLAN!
John 13:31-38
o In verse 34 Jesus gives a “new commandment”, to love one another.
§ What’s so “new” about this?! Even non-religious people love their family and friends.
· This is where Jesus washing the feet of the disciples comes in.
o By washing the feet of the disciples Jesus was turning societal norms upside down!
§ You must never think you are too good or too important to do anything, as a Christian.
· THAT’S NEW!
§ Living like that will not only cause the world to sit up and take notice, it will cause God to, too!
Theme: New Commandment
Scripture: John 13:18-38
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Many want to be great, but few want to be a servant. Even the disciples spent the final hours of Jesus’ life debating who was the greatest among them (Luke 22:24). Jesus showed them true greatness– He washed their feet.
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 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 taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled 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.” (Phil. 2:4-11)
Take-Home Message: If you want to be great, serve.
- Jesus served His betrayer (1-4).
- Jesus served His abandoner (5).
- Jesus served His denier (6-11).
- Jesus told us to serve (12-17).
Message: Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet
Scripture: John 13:1-17
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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As we travel through life, there is both the journey and the destination.
- Don’t under-value either one! They are BOTH a BIG deal!
John 12:36-43
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In this part of the passage John references a prophesy found in Isaiah 6:10, which says “God blinded their eyes and He hardened their hearts, lest the see with their eyes and understand with their hearts, and turn so that God would heal them.”
- Is this prophesy saying that God “caused” people NOT to believe?
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Something to consider:
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The Destination- Jesus WAS going to be rejected and crucified by the people. There was no getting around that. It had to happen
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The Journey- How that took place could play out in any number of ways: God didn’t have to “make” people do something. He knew the condition of their hearts. Therefore, He just guided them!
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For example; John 12:42-43 says that some actually DID believe! They just didn’t stand up for Jesus! Which ultimately led to His crucifixion!
John 12:44-50
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The journey/destination analogy works here too, just in a different way:
- The Journey- In verse 47 Jesus says that anyone who hears His word but does not keep His word, He does not judge.
- The Destination- In verse 48 Jesus that the one who rejects Him and does not receive His word, does have judge… The WORD that He has spoken will judge them in the Last Day! (John 1:1, Rev. 19:13)
Here is the good news: We are still on the journey! We have yet to reach the final destination.
- Don’t wait. Choose Jesus today!
Message: Journey/Destination
Scripture: John 12:36-50
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have you ever gone through a hard time in life and wished you didn’t have too?
o Well, you’re not alone. Even Jesus went through a time like that.
§ Today passage teaches how He chose to deal with it.
John 12:27
o Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? “Father, save me from this hour.”? But for this purpose, I have come to this hour.
§ “Purpose” is what got Him through…
· Jesus chose not to focus on His circumstance, but on the purpose for which He was going through this circumstance!
John 12:35-36
o The LIGHT is among you but a little while longer. Walk while you have the LIGHT, lest the darkness overtake you. While you have the LIGHT, believe in the LIGHT, that you might become Sons of LIGHT!
§ Jesus, the LIGHT, gives everything PURPOSE, even our pain and suffer, if only we would give it to Him.
Jesus is inviting you to walk in the LIGHT…
o Will you?
Message: “Purpose”
Scripture: John 12:27-36
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The offer of eternal life is something we all want. It is something that we all seek after and crave—the best life possible. The problem is, we often look in the wrong places. But Jesus offers this to us by His grace. But, there is a cost that comes with eternal life. Jesus clearly lays out for us in John 12:20-26 what that cost is—death.
BIG IDEA: Eternal life comes at the cost of death.
What kind of death must take place for eternal life?
- The death of Christ (v20-24)
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The Cost of the Cross
- Emotional Cost
- Physical Cost
- Spiritual Cost
- The death of me (v25-26)
Take-Home Questions
- Have I died to myself and been made alive in Christ?
- What are the true priorities in my life?
- Will I share my life in Christ with others?
Message: The Cost of Eternal Life
Scripture: John 12:20-26
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus did not fixate on the chaos around him. He focused instead on His Father. He was utterly committed to accomplishing His Father’s mission, and nothing deterred Him. He “set his face” to go to Jerusalem, and ultimately to the cross for us.
What gets in the way of your focus on God’s plan? Perhaps it is a desire for people’s approval, fixating on people’s perception of you, or putting your own plans first. Faithfulness requires that we instead focus on God’s approval, perception and plan. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matt. 6:33)
Take-Home Message: Faithfulness requires focus on my Father’s plan.
Jesus focused on…
- His Father’s mission, not people’s approval (12-13, 17-18).
- His Father’s Word, not people’s perception (14-16).
- His Father’s plan, not people’s tradition (19).
Take-Home Questions
- Whose approval matters most to you?
- Whose perception matters most to you?
- Whose plan matters most to you?
Message: The Faithful King and the Fleeting Crowd
Scripture: John 12:12-19
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Sometimes the best answer to the question of whether something is right or wrong is:
- It depends…
Our passage today begins with Mary performing an act of extravagant love!
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But Judas complains! “This stuff is expensive! It could have been sold to take care of the poor!”
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Which is true, but notice how Jesus responds:
- “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you will always have with you, but you do not always have me.” (Vs. 7)
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Was Jesus implying that we shouldn’t take care of the poor?!
- Of course not! He was saying;
- Circumstance matters!
If you’re wondering what the right thing to do is in any given situation:
- Check your heart!
Message: Check Your Heart
Scripture: John 12:1-11
Why does there seem to be a disconnect between what we say we believe and
how we actually live? We say that Jesus has changed our lives, and yet, our
day-to-day doesn’t seem all that different. Why is this the case? Jesus shows us
in Luke 6:46-49 where He gives a parable of two houses and the foundation
upon which they are built. Jesus desires for our lives to be built upon Him and He
lays out for us what this entails in this necessary passage of Scripture.
Three reasons why we don’t do what Jesus tells us to do…
1) We think it’s unrealistic.
2) We don’t want to.
3) We don’t know how to.
If my life is built on Jesus…
1) I come to Jesus (v47).
2) I hear and do what Jesus says (v47).
3) I have dug deep with Jesus (v48).
4) I stand firm in Jesus (v48).
If my life is not built on Jesus…
1) I hear and do not do what Jesus says (v49).
2) I have not dug deep with Jesus (v49).
3) The fall will be great (v49).
Message: Foundation
Luke 6:46-49
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Christ is not Jesus’ last name, it is His title. It is the greatest title that any person who walks this earth can receive. In a world of influencers that claim to understand the world and have all the answers, only Jesus qualifies for the title of Christ.
Yet Christ lived life as an outsider. He was born in a feeding trough (manger), outside the Inn. He took on the form of a servant and submitted Himself to 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 2:9-11)
Take-Home Message: Jesus alone qualifies for the title of Christ.
The Credentials of Christ (1-7)
- The Credentials of Christ:
- Born in Bethlehem (4)
- From the line of David (4)
- Born of a virgin (5)
- The Celebration of Christ (8-14)
- The Consecration of Christ (15-21)
Message: The Birth of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Luke 2:1-21
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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v As we conclude the Book of Ruth, we celebrate with Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, the birth of a baby.
o A child who would ultimately lead to the birth of THE baby who we celebrate today: Jesus!
v Ruth 4:1-12
o In this passage Boaz is “making good” on the promise he made to Ruth in chapter 3, “I will provide you a kinsmen Redeemer”.
§ He’s also “making good” on the faith that Naomi placed in him, as well, “He will do what is right and do it quickly”.
· And he does it all with integrity and wisdom… never cutting corners that could ultimately lead to the loss of all he holds dear.
v Ruth 4:13-22
o This is a beautiful, yet odd scene, to some:
§ Naomi is the center of this passage NOT Boaz and Ruth! Why?
· Because this child Obed, would become her kinsmen Redeemer! And it would be through him that her of her husband and son’s lineage survive!
o Ah, but not just survive… THRIVE!
v Isaiah 9:6-7
o For unto to us a child 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 uphold it with justice and righteousness from this time forth and forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
v No other book of the Bible begins so dark and hopeless than does the Book of Ruth.
o And few books of the Bible end with more HOPE! Hope that would eventually come to all of us in the form of a babe, who would be named Jesus!
Message: HOPE!
Scripture: Ruth Chapter 4
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Bible is full of people who do surprisingly bold things through faith, and God blesses them. When our plans are in alignment with God’s will, it’s okay to be bold! In Ruth 3, Naomi and Ruth hatch a plan for carrying out God’s redemption of their family. Ruth approaches Boaz with boldness, and the rest is history. Ruth, a Moabite woman, would go on to be included in the lineage of Christ through Boaz (Matt. 1:5).
Take-Home Message– Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.
Naomi’s Plan (1-5)
- Ruth’s Bold Move (6-9)
- Boaz’s Response (10-15)
- Ruth Returns to Naomi (16-18)
Lessons from Ruth 3
- Watch while you wait (2).
- Listen while you wait (5).
- Take bold action when God opens the door (7b-9).
- Remember God’s deliverance (13).
Message: Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor
Scripture: Ruth 3:1-18
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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God has a way of showing up when all hope seems lost. Naomi’s world collapsed when she lost her husband and both of her sons. All hope seemed lost as she returned home with Ruth. But in the midst of her darkness, God was working for her redemption. In Ruth 2, we see God’s plan for a radical redemption of Ruth and Naomi. This redemption is a portrait of our redemption through Christ.
Take-Home Message: When all hope seemed lost, God sent my Redeemer.
Ruth and Boaz Meet (1-7).
Boaz and Ruth Honor Each Other (8-17).
- Boaz honored Ruth by…
- Protecting her (8-9).
- Praising her godliness (10-13).
- Providing for her (14-16).
- Ruth honored Boaz by…
- Respecting him (10, 13).
- Praising his godliness (10, 13).
- Providing for Naomi (17).
Naomi experiences new hope (18-23).
· The Kinsman-Redeemer could redeem…
- A family member sold into slavery (Lev. 25:47-49).
- Land that needed to be sold under financial distress (Lev. 25:23-28).
- The family name through a levirate marriage (Deut. 25:5-10).
· Christ our Kinsman-Redeemer
- Christ redeemed us from slavery to sin (Rom. 3:23-24; 6:15-18).
- Christ redeemed our property privileges lost in the Fall (Gen. 3).
- Christ redeemed our family name – children of God (1 John 3:1).
Message: Ruth Meets Boaz
Scripture: Ruth 2:1-23
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Faith is not a feeling… but…
- It’s a beautiful thing in those “moments” when our faith and our feelings do connect!
Today we’re going to look at three very different examples of “faithfulness”
- Orpah
- Ruth
- Naomi
Orpah
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On the surface it may appear that Orpah is the least faithful of these three women.
- But don’t be so sure.
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Even though we are all called to be faithful, we don’t all have the same calling!
- The evidence shows that Oraph was living into her calling.
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- But don’t be so sure.
Ruth
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She’s the heroin of the story, as the name of the book implies. Her faith was exhibited in love, determination and selflessness.
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But the fact is, maybe we’re giving Ruth more credit than is deserved… Perhaps her faithfulness to Naomi grew out of the fact that she had nothing to go home too! We don’t know…
- But does it matter? The fact is, her faithfulness is one of the most beautiful expressions of faithfulness in the entire Bible!
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Naomi
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Her faithfulness is expressed very differently than the other two.
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Ruth 1:20- “Call me Mara (which means bitter), for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me…”
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In some ways, Naomi’s expression of faithfulness is the best of all! She didn’t loose her faith in the midst of her trials and tribulations.
- Was she angry and bitter? Yes! But she didn’t give up, and God blessed her for that!
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God’s got broad shoulders. He can take it if you get mad at Him.
- Just don’t give up on Him!
Faithful (Even when you don’t feel like it)
Scripture: Ruth 1:6-22
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Bible is not a “history book”. It is a book that contains history. But…
- Its ultimate purpose is to tell the story of God’s plan to save the world. Jesus!
- All throughout the Old Testament, we find “easter eggs” pointing to Jesus.
- The Book of Ruth is filled with them!
- All throughout the Old Testament, we find “easter eggs” pointing to Jesus.
- No other book in the Bible starts out quite so “dark” as the Book of Ruth:
- Famine, death and uncertainty about the future abound.
- Definition of an “easter egg” in this context:
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A hidden clue that gives us a glimpse into what the future holds.
- Our passage today has a not-so-hidden clue pointing us to Jesus:
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Ruth 1:1- In the days when Judges ruled there was a famine in the land, and a man of Bethlehem in Judea, went to live the land of Moab.
- From the little town of Bethlehem would come the Savior of the world… Jesus!
- Naomi was faced with much uncertainty, but she knew a few things:
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- Our passage today has a not-so-hidden clue pointing us to Jesus:
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She knew God was still on the throne and that He was still in control, even if it felt like everything was out of control!
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And she knew that God had a plan. Why? Because He said so!
- What will you choose when faced with the uncertainties of life?!
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- Its ultimate purpose is to tell the story of God’s plan to save the world. Jesus!
Message: Hope in the Midst of Despair
Scripture: Ruth 1:1-5
When you are gone, how will people remember your relationship with Jesus? Will you have a legacy of faith or a legacy of unbelief? When Jesus healed Lazarus, the authorities had a choice: embrace Jesus as the Christ, or reject him once and for all. They made the tragic decision of rejecting Jesus – they fixed their decision to kill him. The religious authorities’ story is a tragedy – a terrifying example of the result of rejecting Jesus when He clearly reveals Himself to us. How will your response to Jesus be remembered? You can either be a good example, or a fearful warning.
Take-Home Message: My response to Jesus determines how I will be remembered.
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My response to Jesus when I’m losing control (45-48).
- Responding to Jesus when I’m losing control:
- Do I believe that Jesus is in control?
- Do I believe that Jesus is good?
- Will I follow Jesus into the unknown?
- My response to Jesus when I’m planning my course (49-53).
- Responding to Jesus when I’m planning my course:
- Look for God’s clues in your circumstances.
- Pray.
- Seek God in His Word.
- Seek Christian counsel.
- Walk in obedience.
- My response to Jesus when I’m reaching a conclusion (54-57).
- Responding to Jesus when I’m losing control:
Message: The Plot to Kill Jesus
Scripture: John 11:45-57
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Setting up our passage for today:
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In Luke 10:41-42 there is an encounter between Jesus, Mary and her sister, Martha.
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Martha is upset because Mary isn’t helping and she asks Jesus to intervene. Jesus responds by saying; “Martha, you worry about so much, but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and I’m not taking it away from her.”
- How would you have responded to Jesus’ rebuke? Keep that in mind as we look at our passage for today.
- John 11:28- When Martha had said this, she went and said to her sister Mary, in private; “The teacher is here and is calling for you.”
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It’s just speculation to try and understand what motivated Martha when she said this.
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But keeping in mind the story from Luke, and what Martha said to Jesus in verses 21-22, is it fair to speculate that Mary may have been thinking this:
- “Jesus thinks Mary’s more holy than me. Maybe he’ll listen to her?!”
- Putting aside all this speculation, let’s focus on some facts:
-
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Jesus loved Mary and Martha, both, with every fiber of His being. Just as He loves us!
- When Jesus answers a request, He does it according to what’s BEST!
- Jesus is not immune to the pain that His answers to our request may cause.
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Three times in this passage we find evidence of this:
- Verse 33- Jesus was deeply troubled…
- Verse 35- Jesus wept…
- Verse 38- Jesus was deeply moved…
- You can trust that the pain and the suffering you’re experiencing has a purpose, too… IF… you will put your trust in Jesus!
- Verse 33- Jesus was deeply troubled…
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Message: Purpose in our pain
Scripture: John 11:28-44
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus often makes us wait to see His miracles. Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, but He did not do it right away. Jesus waited two days after hearing that Lazarus was ill to go to him. Lazarus was in the tomb four days before Jesus raised him. Jesus waited until many Jews had gathered to console Mary and Martha before healing Lazarus. Jesus made them wait.
God is seldom early, but He is never late. He is always on time! If we had all of the information that God had, we would understand His timing. But we don't, and that means we need to trust Him. When Jesus makes us wait, may we say with the Psalmist, “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!” (Ps. 27:13-14)
Take-Home Message: Jesus makes me wait so that I may believe.
- Wait, because Jesus can do miracles (17-19).
- Wait, and Jesus will strengthen your faith (20-23).
- Wait, and Jesus will give you life (25-27).
Message: I Am the Resurrection and the Life
Scripture: John 11:17-27
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Can you remember a time in your life when people that you loved, treated you in a way that didn’t “feel” loving?
o How did you respond?
The story of the death and resurrection of Lazarus is one of the most powerful in the Bible!
o But there’s more to the story and first meets the eye. This passage deals with two things that people experience everyday:
§ The fact that Jesus loves us.
§ And the fact that we often don’t understand that love, in the moment!
John 11:5-8
o Now Jesus LOVED Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard Lazarus was ill, He STAYED two days long in the place that He was. Then after this, He said to His disciples; Let us go to Judea again. And the disciples said; “Rabbi, the Jews were just now seeking to stone you and you want to go back there again?”
§ On the surface, Jesus’ behavior did NOT seem loving, but to the disciples, it at least seemed logical. Going to Lazarus would have been dangerous!
· Neither of those things was true, however! He WAS being loving and there was nothing to FEAR!
o They just didn’t understand.
Are you willing to trust Jesus, believing that He loves you? And are you willing to follow Him, wherever He may lead?!
o That’s exactly what He’s asking of each of us every day!
Message: “Understanding Love”
Scripture: John 11:1-16\
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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You cannot say that Jesus was only a good man. He did not leave that option open to you. Jesus is either God, or a really bad man who claimed to be God. But we know that Jesus was not just a good man. We know and openly confess that Jesus is who He claimed to be: God.
Jesus said, “before Abraham was, I am.” He said, “I and the Father are one.” He is “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature.” He is the Word made flesh. He is worthy of the same honor, praise, worship, glory and majesty as the Father and the Holy Spirit. And we unashamedly lift high the name of Jesus as God at Prairie Bible Church.
Take-Home Message: Jesus is God.
- Jesus’ words declare that Jesus is God (31-33).
- Jesus’ witness declares that Jesus is God (34-36).
- Jesus’ works declare that Jesus is God (37-39).
- John’s witness declares that Jesus is God (40-42).
Message: The Divine Son
Scripture: John 10:31-42
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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As important as the destination is, never forget…
- Sometimes the journey is just as important!
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Our passage today is the center of a theological debate that has been raging in the Church for 2000 years:
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Is it possible for a person to lose their salvation?!
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John 10:27-28
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“My sheep hear my voice. I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. And no one shall snatch them from my hand.”
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On the surface this passage seems to end any debate as to whether someone can lose their salvation.
- It’s a resounding NO!!!! Or is it???
- Hebrews 6:4-6
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It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened. Who have tasted of the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit. And have tasted of the Word of God and the power of the coming age. And then, having fallen away for them to be restored again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding Him in contempt.
- On the surface, this passage seems to be in contradiction to the passage above. But is it?
- Remember:
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God does NOT contradict Himself. If two passages seem to be in contradiction, the problem is not God. It’s us.
- We must always approach the scripture with humility…
- There are many scriptures that you will wrestle with, study, and pray over, and still not come to a definitive conclusion. But always remember:
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Sometimes the journey is more important than the destination.
- Especially if you are journeying with Jesus!
Theme: The Most Important Thing
Scripture: John 10:22-30
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus is the Good Shepherd, but what does that mean? There is more than one word for “good” in Koine Greek, but the two most common are agathos and kalos. While agathos focuses on “useful”, kalos focuses on “beautiful” and “excellent.” Kalos denotes a captivating and attractive character. Jesus is the beautiful and excellent shepherd that attracts and captives us!
What is it that makes Jesus so attractive and captivating? His love. Jesus’ love for His sheep was demonstrated so beautifully that it should attract us to Him. Despite the grisly nature of the cross, there is something incredibly beautiful and captivating about it. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
Take-Home Message: The Good Shepherd loves His sheep.
The Good Shepherd…
- Died for His sheep (11-13).
- Unites His sheep (14-16).
- Has authority over His sheep’s enemies (17-18).
- Jesus has authority…
- Over Satan.
- Over sin.
- Over sickness.
- Over death.
- Over everything.
- Separates His sheep from the world (19-21).
Message: I Am the Good Shepherd
Scripture: John 10:11-21
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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v The thing that sets Jesus apart from ALL others is this:
o He has come to give LIFE… Life abundant!
v Jesus often uses cultural analogies/illustrations to teach eternal truths.
o The eternal truth that Jesus is teach in this passage is that HE is the only way to God!
v Cultural analogy/illustration #1 (vs. 9)
o I am the “door” of the sheep…
§ Eternal truth;
§ Anyone who enters by me will be saved!
v Cultural analogy/illustration #2 (vs. 10)
o The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy (False Messiahs)
§ Eternal truth;
§ I came to give life abundant!
v It is the human condition to gravitate towards a self-centered life.
o “Life abundant” is not self-centered, but Christ-centered!
Message: “Life Abundant”
Scripture: John 10:7-10
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The world Jesus entered was filled with false leaders. The spiritual leaders of the nation had become self-interested. Rather than caring for the people, they fattened themselves. They were self-appointed and self-righteous. Jesus entered their world and said, “I am the Good Shepherd.” He was appointed by His Father as the true leader of God’s people. He is the Chief Shepherd to which all other leaders of God’s people must submit.
If we are true sheep, we will follow Jesus, the True Shepherd. Following Jesus means having a personal relationship with Him and being led by the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. Jesus calls us by name and tenderly guides us as we listen to His voice. How do we discern His voice from the voice of a stranger? Jesus said, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (Jn. 8:31-32).
Take-Home Message: True sheep follow the True Shepherd.
Introducing John 10
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Old Testament Connections
- Ezek. 34; Ps. 23:1; Isa. 40:11; Jer. 3:15; cf. Isa. 56:9-12; Jer. 23:1-4; 25:32-38; Zech. 11:16
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- New Testament Connections
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Matt. 9:36; Mark 6:34; 14:27; Luke 15:1-7
- The True Shepherd (10:1-3a)
- The True Sheep (10:3b-5)
- True Sheep…
- Hear Jesus’ voice (3).
- Follow Jesus (4).
- Know Jesus’ voice (4-5).
- The False Shepherds (10:6)
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Message: The True Shepherd
Scripture: John 10:1-6
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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If we are to be healed, we must first admit that we cannot heal ourselves. How many of us have tried to go it alone, only to find that we are not the greatest managers of our own lives? The only way to find true life is to have Jesus open your eyes. And the only way to have Jesus open your eyes is to admit that you are blind.
The road to Jesus is a road paved with humility. You must acknowledge your need for Him and that you are helpless without Him. Until you are willing to do that, you will not see. But if you will come to Him and admit that you are blind, he will open your eyes, and you will begin to see reality.
Take-Home Message: I cannot see unless I first admit that I am blind.
The Response of the Man Born Blind (35-38).
A pattern for those who see…
- Cast out of the world
- Found by Jesus
- Respond with belief
- Respond with worship
The Response of the Pharisees (39-41).
Message: The Man Born Blind: Part 3
Scripture: John 9:35-41
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Though sharing our faith is one of the most important purposes we have a Christians, many of us fail to do so for two primary reasons:
- Fear of what others might think of us.
- The fear we won’t know what to say.
Three lessons on how to share your faith:
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John 9:13-17; Focus on what you know
- You don’t have to KNOW everything!
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John 9:18-23; Share YOUR story
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NOT somebody else’s
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John 9:24-34: You’re not an expert on everything
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BUT you are an expert on your own experience with Christ!
Just remember, your purpose as a Christian is not necessarily to be an expert theologian.
- Your purpose is to be the ultimate expert on your own experience with Jesus!
Theme: How to share your testimony
Scripture: John 9:13-34
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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It is easy to lose sight of God’s purposes in the face of suffering. When darkness surrounds us, we say with the Psalmist, “Why, O Lord, do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (Ps. 10:1). But God is far more present in seasons of difficulty than we realize. When suffering is most intense and night is most dark, God is at work accomplishing his purpose. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (Jn. 1:5). God will bring deliverance in His good time. When that happens, may we share our testimony of His goodness and point others toward the deliverance that can only be found in the Light of the World, Jesus Christ.
Take-Home Message: The Light of the World opens my eyes to see opportunity in difficulty.
The Light of the World helps me see…
- Suffering as an opportunity for God’s glory (1-3).
- Night as an opportunity for Christ’s work (4-7).
- Deliverance as an opportunity for my testimony (8-12).
Message: Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
Scripture: John 9:1-12
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus said to His opponents, “I honor my Father, and you dishonor me.” This statement summarizes much of His interaction with His people. Jesus “came to His own and His own did not receive him.” Yet Jesus knew when to fight and when to surrender. He often surrendered when He was dishonored, even to the point of the cross. But He fought when the Father and the Holy Spirit’s honor was on the line. He knew His Father would glorify Him in the end. If we honor the Son, God will also honor us with Christ in the end. Whose honor are you more concerned about: yours or God’s?
Take-Home Message: The Father honors those who honor His Son.
Honor God…
- When you are dishonored (48-51).
- And let Him seek your honor (52-56).
- By Seeking His Son’s Honor (57-59).
Message: Honor the Son
Scripture: John 8:48-59
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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We all come to life with an earthly heritage which defines us to some degree. But our earthly heritage is not what will ultimately define us.
- Our spiritual heritage will, and we get to choose what that will be!
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Setting the context for our passage:
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In last week’s passage Jesus confronted with the Jews with the fact He knew they were planning to murder Him. But they don’t even recognize they are being called out!
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Instead, they double down on trying to elevate “their” truth above “THE” truth.
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So, Jesus decided to change His tactics…
- Verse 39- “IF… you are children of Abraham…”
- In verse 43 Jesus asks a rhetorical question: “Why don’t you understand what I say?”
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He then answers His own question: “Because you can’t bear to hear my words!”
- Why????
- In verse 44 Jesus tells them why: “Because you are of your father the devil, and you will do what your father desires.”
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Is this too harsh? Did the Jews choose the devil as their spiritual father?
When a person does not choose Jesus, they by default, do not choose God!
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But you have to choose something!
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Not choosing is to choose the devil as your spiritual father.
- Who do you choose???
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Message: Heritage
Scripture: John 8:39-47
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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· We are ALL sinners and slaves to sin… BUT… there is HOPE!
o Our HOPE is in Jesus, and Jesus alone!
· John 8:37 I” know that you are the off-spring of Abraham, yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you.”
o The ironic thing about this verse is that the Pharisee’s don’t even try to deny this accusation! Why?
§ Because they are so caught in trying to refute “THE Truth” with “their truth”, that they don’t even try to refute the most damning statement of all!
· This scene illustrates the condition of most people’s hearts.
· John 8:34- 36 Jesus answered them; “Everyone who practices sin, is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever. The Son remains forever. So, if the Son sets you free, you are free, indeed.”
o In other words: We are all slaves to sin, but there is HOPE.
· John 8:31 “If you abide in my words, you are truly my disciples. And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free!”
o In other words, don’t just say you believe, live like you believe!
· One of the biggest LIES many Christians believe:
o I need to be strong and mature enough not to allow sin a foothold in my life!
§ WRONG The battle does NOT belong to you. It belongs to Jesus!
· Surrender your sin to Jesus and you will be set free!
Theme: Slaves to Sin
Scripture: John 8:31-38
God speaks again and again, though people do not recognize it (Job 33:14). The Pharisees had the Son of God standing right in front of them, yet they did not recognize Him. Responding to their repeated questions about His identity, Jesus’ reply sums it up: “I have been telling you from the beginning.” They were too busy forming their arguments against Jesus to hear the truth from Him.
We can exhaust ourselves trying to make sense of things without Jesus, but without Jesus, we cannot see the truth. Without Jesus, we cannot see reality about ourselves, others, or our purpose in life. Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. He has come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in him may not remain in darkness (John 12:46). Once we become sons of light, we are called to patiently endure the persecution of the world as we witness about the Light. For Jesus also said, “You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14)
Take-Home Message: Without the __________ of the world, we are __________.
Jesus’ __________ (12)
- I Am the Light of the World
- Isaiah 49:6
- John 1:4-5, 9
- John 3:19-21
- John 12:35-36, 46
The Pharisees’ __________ (13-30)
- Your __________ is not true. (13-18)
- Where is your __________? (19-20)
- Will He __________ himself? (21-24)
- __________ are you? (25-27)
Jesus’ __________ (28-30)
Message: I Am the Light of the World
Scripture: John 8:12-30
We come face to face with all sorts of different events, scenarios, and situations in this life. Some good, some bad. In these verses, we meet a woman who comes face to face with the consequences, the embarrassment, and the shame of her sin. She also comes face to face with Jesus. This was written so that we would be able to see, just as this woman did, Jesus as He truly is.
Big Idea: I see clearly who __________ is when I am face to face with ________.
Textual Criticism: A method used to ______________ what the original manuscripts of the Bible said...[it] is the study of these manuscripts in an attempt to determine what the ________________ reading actually was.
Matthew 9:13 - “Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire ____________, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but ______________.”
Why do I keep on sinning?
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I do not want to __________.
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I am __________ to stop
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I have tried to __________.
Romans 8:1 - There is therefore now _____ ___________________ for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Message: Face to Face with Jesus
Scripture: John 7:53-8:11
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus cried out to the crowd, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. He called his true followers to receive “rivers of living water” in their hearts through believing in him. Someday the Lord will sort out the wheat from the tares (Matt. 13:24-43) and the good fish from the bad fish (Matt. 13:48). But until then, he continues to call us out from the crowd. We are called to be set apart, and God provides opportunities for us to stand up for Christ.
Nicodemus was the most unlikely of true followers. His peer group was Jesus’ staunchest critics and opponents. He first came to Jesus by night, yet now he is confronting his peers in defense of Jesus. He is a true follower, evidenced by his burial of Christ (Jn. 19:39). Jesus calls to us the same way he called to Nicodemus: Come out from the crowd!
Take-Home Message: Jesus calls his followers out of the crowd.
Jesus’ Offer (37-39).
The People’s Response (40-52).
- The Convinced (40-41a).
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The Skeptic and the Hostile (41b-44).
- Generational Questions
- Baby Boomers (1946-64) – What is true?
- Gen X (1965-80) – What is real?
- Gen Y (1981-96) – What is good?
- Gen Z (1997-2012) – What is beautiful?
§ Answering the skeptic and the hostile: Share the gospel of rescue and renewal.
- The Amazed (45-46).
- The Authorities (47-49).
- The Follower (50-52).
Message: Rivers of Living Water
Scripture: John 7:37-52
There was significant confusion and division surrounding Jesus in his day. Questions about his identity swirled through the streets of Jerusalem, and an underlying fear of the religious establishment filled many of the people. Perhaps the greatest fear of all was that of the religious leaders who felt threatened by Jesus. Yet God’s concrete plan for our redemption through Christ shines through the midst of it all. This reminds us that the confusion and division of this present age cannot shake the sure plan of God formed before the foundation of the world.
Take-Home Message: In a confused world, God’s plan remains concrete.
God’s Concrete Plan
- Jesus came from His Father in Heaven (25-29).
- Implications of Christ’s Eternal Existence
- Jesus has profound depth.
- Jesus has endless wisdom.
- Jesus has infinite supply.
- Jesus returned to His Father in Heaven (30-34).
- Jesus reached us alongside His Father in Heaven (35-36).
Message: God’s Concrete Plan
Scripture: John 7:25-36\
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus said, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” But how? The average adult makes over 30,000 decisions each day, many of which feel overwhelming. Yet Jesus knew the secret to right judgment: submission to His Father. Jesus waited on His Father’s timing, witnessed with His Father’s authority, and judged with His Father’s righteousness. Jesus never made a sinful decision, so we can look to Him for wisdom in every decision we make. “For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him.” (Jn 5:22-23)
Take-Home Message: I learn right judgment by looking to the Righteous Judge.
Jesus and His Father’s Timing(1-9).
- Jesus and His Father’s Authority (10-18).
- Jesus and His Father’s Righteousness (19-24).
How do I judge rightly?
- Commit to God’s timeline.
- Prioritize God’s approval.
- Pursue God’s wisdom.
- Do not judge by appearances.
Message: Judge Rightly
Scripture: John 7:1-24
The Holy Spirit clearly says that in the last days some will leave the faith (1 Tim. 4:1). Tragically, there are many in church who have the appearance of being a follower, yet do not truly belong to Jesus. After one of Jesus’ most difficult teachings, “many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him.” When many leave, Jesus asks us what he asked the Twelve, "You don’t want to go away too, do you?”
Take-Home Message: Stay.
Stay when the Word challenges you (60-62).
§ Why do followers leave?
o Offended by the Word.
Stay when many leave (63-66).
§ Why do followers leave?
o Offended by the Word
o Unbelief
o They’ve never truly come to know Jesus
Stay and truly know Jesus (67-71).
§ How do I stay?
o Receive the Word.
o Believe in Jesus.
o Come to know Jesus.
·
Message: When Followers Leave
Scripture: John 6:60-71
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Whenever we turn on the tv or scroll social media, we see celebrities who embody the American dream, yet whose lives come crashing down. This shouldn’t surprise us, because Jesus makes it clear that the American dream, and every other path apart from him, lead only to emptiness. The Bread of Life discourse shows us our inability to provide life for ourselves and God’s victory over that inability. We can spend all our years searching for life, but only Jesus has it. Jesus says to us and to all, “Eat, drink, and live!”
Take-Home Message: The Bread of Life prevails over my inability to find life.
The Bread of Life overcomes my familiarity (41-46).
Overcoming the danger of familiarity:
- Choose thankfulness over skepticism.
- Choose “so that” over “rather than.”
The Bread of Life pays for my penalty (47-51).
The Bread of Life invites me to feed freely (52-59).
What does Jesus mean by “eat his flesh and drink his blood”?
- A personal receiving of Christ and His Work
- A personal abiding in Christ and His Work
Message: I Am the Bread of Life: Part 2
Scripture: John 6:41-59
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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We’ve never had more, and yet never had less. We live with a greater abundance of food and resources than perhaps any society in world history. Yet many say, “I just feel so empty.” In Jesus’ day, people had this same longing for sustained spiritual sustenance. Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst (John 6:35).
Take-Home Message: My emptiness is forever filled by the Bread of Life.
The Bread of Life offers me a sustained satisfaction (22-29).
How do I live a sustainable spiritual life?
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Direct your energy toward eternal purposes (27).
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Doing flows from believing (28-29).
The Bread of Life offers me a saving trust (30-36).
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How do I trust in Christ?
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Trust in Christ is about believing before seeing (30).
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Trust in Christ is about leaving before receiving (35).
Faith:
Forsaking
All
I
Take
Him
The Bread of Life offers me a secure relationship (37-40).
Message: I Am the Bread of Life
Scripture: John 6:22-40
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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It’s not that our problems are too big, it’s that our view of Christ is too small. The title “Christ” reminds us of Jesus’ Lordship and power. He is “God with us”, but he is also the transcendent King of kings and Lord of lords. When facing the greatest obstacles that life throws at us, we can look to our King who is greater than our enemy. We can say with the Psalmist: I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken (Ps. 16:8).
Take-Home Message: My confidence is anchored in Christ’s control.
Because Christ is in control, I need not be anxious (1-9).
- Overcoming anxiety…
- Focus on the One who is with you.
- Focus on what you do have.
Because Christ is in control, I enjoy his abundance (10-15).
- How do I enjoy his abundance?
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- You can have as much of Him as you want!
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- Jesus withdraws from us when we try to control him.
Because Christ is in control, I need not be afraid (16-21).
Message: Christ is in Control
Scripture: John 6:1-21
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Take-Home Message: Jesus is my only option for abundant life.
Without my only Lens, I cannot see reality (39-40).
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With Jesus, we can see reality about…
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Ourselves
- Others
- The World
- The Bible
- Our purpose
- Without my only Love, I seek the wrong glory (41-44).
- Without my only Lord, I hope in the wrong authority (45-47).
- How do I keep Jesus in his proper place?
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Jesus is my lens
- Jesus is my love
- Jesus is my authority
- Jesus is my life
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Message: The Only Option
Scripture: John 5:39-47
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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We live in a very “this or that” culture. Coke or Pepsi. Nike or Adidas.
Iowa or Iowa State. You have to pick a side. But when it comes to the
topic of religion, we can tend to get a bit squirmish. John 5:30-38 is in
our Bibles to let us know clearly and plainly that we cannot play this
game with Jesus. He has clearly revealed who He is and we must
weigh the testimonies of the witnesses He lays out for us in these
verses. If we do not embrace Jesus, we are rejecting Him, and by
doing that, we are rejecting God Himself.
Big Idea: If I reject Jesus, I reject God.
To embrace Jesus as the Son of God, I must…
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Accept His relationship with the Father (30-32)
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Receive the messenger sent before Him (33-35)
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Believe the testimonies about Him (36-38)
Message: Rejecting Jesus
Scripture: John 5:30-38
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Baptism= acknowledgment that we are sinners and that our only hope is Jesus!
- Remember this as we look at our passage of scripture for today.
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John 5:25-29
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Truly, truly I say to you, an hour is coming, and now is here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For the Father has life in Himself, and so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, and He has given Him authority to execute judgement, because He is the Son of Man. Do not marvel at this. For an hour is coming when all who ae in the tombs will hear His voice and come out. Those who have done good, to the resurrection of life. And those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgement.
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In this passage two different judgments are being rendered:
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Judgement 1 (John 5:25)
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“Those who are dead and hear the voice of the Son of God will live!”
- This judgement is occurring even today… right now! - * WE are DEAD in sin, and are given new life when we receive the truth of the gospel.
- Judgement 2- (John 5:28-29)
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-
This is a future judgement… the final judgment.
- Those who do “good” will not be judge. Those who do evil… WILL!
- Jesus is NOT talking about “work’s righteousness”!
-
Remember what baptism means: we are all sinners. Our only HOPE is Christ!
- The “good” Jesus is referring too here, is the hearing and receiving of the gospel.
-
- The “bad” is NOT hearing and receiving…
-
- The “good” Jesus is referring too here, is the hearing and receiving of the gospel.
Remember the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46)
-
-
One group did indeed, do “good” things, while the other did not. But “why”?
- The group who did “good”, did it out of gratitude, knowing that their HOPE was not in themselves, but in the goodness of the King
-
Message: Two Judgements
Scripture: John 5:25-29
There comes a moment in time when everything changes. And it should.
o Will you be ready when it does?
John 5:19-24
o So, Jesus said them, “Truly, truly I say to you, the Son can do nothing of His own coord, but only what He sees His Father doing. For whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all that He, himself, is doing. And greater works than theses will He show Him, so that you may marvel. For the Father raised the dad and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomever He wills. For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgement to the Son, that all may honor the Son, just as the Son honors the Father who sent Him. Truly, truly I say to you, whoever hears my words and believes Him who sent me, has eternal life. He does not come in judgement, but has passed from death to life.
Recap of last week’s message:
o Jesus’ healing of the invalid served as Jesus’ “coming out party”.
From this moment on everyone would know that Jesus is God!
In today’s passage Jesus doubles down on the TRUTH that He is God!
o Verse 20- Jesus says He will do greater things than His Father.
o Verse 22-23- Jesus goes even further and proclaims that He is in charge!
There comes a time when we are called to stand up for the TRUTH.
o Even when we know the TRUTH will be offensive and start a fight!
Will you stand for the TRUTH when God calls?!
Message: Truth Hurts?
Scripture: John 5:19-24
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
Prairiebible.orgMessage: Truth Hurts?
Scripture: John 5:19-24
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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When God chooses to anything, it’s always for a reason.
- And often it’s a reason that you’d never expect…
Character traits of the man who was healed:
- Blame-shifter
- Ingrate
-
Tattle-tail
-
Out of the multitude that were there that day to be healed WHY would Jesus heal this guy?!
-
John 5:18- This was WHY the Jews were seeking to kill Him, because not only was He healing on the Sabbath, but He was even calling God His own Father, making Himself equal to God.
- In other words, the healing wasn’t about the guy at all! Jesus had His own reasons that none of them understood at the time.
-
-
God knows what He’s doing when we don’t!
- So, we need to trust Him!
- Know that He loves us…
- And believe that He wants a relationship with us.
- And the best way to build relationship with Him is through prayer
The Gospels record 37 miracles of Jesus, and 28 of the 37 (over 75 percent) involve him healing people. Jesus healed friends, strangers, and even opponents. He continued to heal people until the very end of his life. In his last hours, he heals the high priest’s servant sent to arrest him. Chronologically, this passage is the first healing miracle of Jesus. And what was the purpose? That we would believe: “The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” And he himself believed, and all his household.” (Jn 4:53)
Take-Home Message: Jesus heals so that we will believe.
Jesus Heals an Official’s Son
- The Context (43-47)
-
The Conversation (48-51)
- The Official Was…
- Desperate
- Determined
- Decisive
- The Conversion (52-54)
- The Official Was…
Scripture: Jesus Heals an Official’s Son
Scripture: John 4:43-54
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Radical encounters with Jesus cause us to do radical things for Jesus. The Bible is full of examples, such as Paul’s miraculous conversion and immediate preaching in Damascus (Acts 9:20-22). Perhaps nothing captures this better than the Samaritan woman testifying to her town after encountering Jesus at the well. God rewarded her radical faith— her boldness led to a revival!
Take-Home Message: Encountering Jesus changes you.
The Woman at the Well: Part 2
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An Unlikely Witness (27-30)
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The Disciples’ Confusion (31-33)
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The Disciples’ Lesson (34-38)
-
An Unlikely Harvest (39-42)
Message: Encountering Jesus Changes You
Scripture: John 4:27-42
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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God could do things in ways that we would expect, but He often doesn’t do that. Why? Because if God did things in expected ways, that would be a story about us. But God does things in unexpected ways so that we know it is a story about God. Part of God’s unexpected plan is to pursue the most unlikely people, and Jesus illustrates this in His pursuit of the Samaritan woman.
Take-Home Message: Jesus reveals Himself in unexpected ways at unexpected times to unexpecting people.
The Woman at the Well:
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The Background (1-4)
-
What caused such division between Jews and Samaritans?
- Different race
-
- Different doctrine
-
- Different place of worship
-
- Past Grievances
-
- The Pursuit (5-10)
- The Response (11-15)
- The Reveal (16-26)
- Different race
-
Message: The Woman at the Well
Scripture: John 4:1-26
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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If Jesus had left the comfort of Heaven and lived a life of royalty on earth to save us, that alone would be the world’s greatest act of humility. But Jesus went far beyond that. He left Heaven and took the form of a servant, humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross. This is unfathomable humility and love. In the face of such greatness, what can we do but fall on our faces and worship? For Jesus is superior to all.
Take-Home Message: Jesus loves you so much that He left Heaven to save you.
Jesus left Heaven to be…
- Rejected by man (31-32).
-
Glorified by the Father (33-35).
-
I am here:
- By God’s appointment
- In His keeping
- Under His training
- For His time
- The Only Way to Heaven (36).
-
Message: The Heavenly Witness
Scripture: John 3:31-36
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“It is not enough for the skeptic, then, to simply dismiss the Christian teaching about the resurrection of Jesus by saying, “It just couldn’t have happened.” He or she must face and answer all these historical questions: Why did Christianity emerge so rapidly, with such power? No other band of messianic followers in that era concluded their leader was raised from the dead—why did this group do so? No group of Jews ever worshipped a human being as God. What led them to do it?... How do you account for the hundreds of eyewitnesses to the resurrection who lived on for decades and publicly maintained their testimony, eventually giving their lives for their belief?” -Keller
The resurrection has evidence that demands a verdict. If the resurrection did not happen, we Christians are still in our sins and the most miserable people of all (1 Cor. 15:19). But an honest appraisal of the evidence makes clear that the resurrection really did happen, and that changes everything.
Take-Home Message: Because Jesus is alive, we have hope.
The Reality of the Resurrection
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An Angel Appears (1-4)
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The Empty Tomb (5-8)
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Jesus Appears (9-10)
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Christ’s appearances between his resurrection and ascension
- To Mary Magdalene at the tomb (Mk. 16:9; Jn. 20:11-18)
- To the women on the road (Matt. 28:9-10)
- To the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Lk. 24:13-32)
- To Peter (Lk. 24:34)
- To 10 of the 11 disciples (Thomas absent) (Lk. 24:36-43; Mk. 16:14; Jn 20:19-25)
- To the 11 disciples (Thomas present) eight days later (Jn 20:26-31)
- To seven disciples by the shore of the Sea of Galilee (Jn 21:1-25)
- To more than 500 disciples, probably on a mountain in Galilee (1 Cor 15:6)
- To James (1 Cor. 15:7)
- To the apostles when he ascended into heaven (Acts 1:3-11).
Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10 28Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he[a] lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Don’t jump from Palm Sunday to Easter. You need to spend time this week thinking about the week that Christ went through for our salvation.
Message: Luke 19:41-44 When He drew near to the city, He wept over it saying: “Would that even you would know this day the things that made for peace. But now they are hidden from your eyes. For the day will come upon you when your enemies will set up a barricade around you, and surround you and hem you in on every side, and tear you down to the ground. You, and your children with you. They will not leave one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Many, through wishing to be great, have failed to be good.” (Spurgeon) John the Baptist was a great man, Jesus Himself said so (Mt. 11:11). But John the Baptist was great because he served God and others rather than being consumed with himself. He did not seek the place of honor or the highest position, he humbled himself and pointed others to Christ. John 3:30 sums up the entire attitude and greatness of John- “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
Take-Home Message: If you want to be great, be a servant.
John the Baptist Exalts Christ:
- The Context (22-24)
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The Discussion (25-26)
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What was the ritual purification dispute all about?
- The authority of Jesus
- The condition of John’s disciples
- The popularity of Jesus
- The Response (27-30)
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Message: He Must Increase, I Must Decrease
Scripture: John 3:22-30
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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John 3:16 may be the most quoted and/or the most memorized verse in the Bible. But in some ways, the verses immediately following it may bring more clarity about God and the ways of God, than any others!
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son, that who so ever believes in Him, will not perish, but have eternal life.
John 3:17-18 But God did not send His son into the world to condemn it, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because He has not believed in the only Son of God.
In these verses Jesus deconstructs many of our “God Box’s”.
God doesn’t send anyone to Hell. We do that to ourselves!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.” -C.S. Lewis
People feel empty, and because of that, they are searching. Nicodemus represents the quintessential searcher: he had a lot to lose, but he couldn’t stay away from Jesus. His journey is a story of leaving this world behind and taking hold of that which is truly life. Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night, and he finds the Light of the World.
Take-Home Message: My search for satisfaction will only end when Jesus is found.
You Must Be Born Again:
- Nicodemus’ Search (1-2).
- Nicodemus’ Crisis (3-4).
- Nicodemus’ Ignorance (5-12).
- Nicodemus’ Solution (13-15).
Message: You Must Be Born Again
Scripture: John 3:1-15
Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus[a] by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit] 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You[d] must be born again.’ 8 The wind[ blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
9 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you[f] do not receive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Was Jesus a people pleaser? Did he seek to draw crowds? In today’s scripture, what does it mean that “Jesus did not entrust himself to the crowds?”
John 2:23-25 Now, when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs that He was doing. But Jesus, on His part, did not entrust Himself to them, because He knew all the people, and needed no one to bear witness about man, for He Himself knew what was in man.
Ask yourself the question: Is my belief in Christ authentic, or am I just playing a game?
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The biblical word for hypocrisy, hupokrisis, literally refers to “someone acting under a mask." Jesus cannot stand hypocrisy, especially the hypocrisy of using God for greed. Jesus’ blood boiled when He saw the misuse of His Father’s house, but Jesus knew the right time and way to be angry. Anger was a small feature of Jesus’ ministry, not the whole ministry. Anger is like fire. While it can do good, it can also do great harm. “For the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:20)
Take-Home Message: Jesus hates the hypocrisy of using God for greed.
Jesus Cleanses the Temple:
- The Setting (12-13)
- The Scene (14-17)
- The Sign (18-22)
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How did Jesus respond to being misunderstood?
- Patience
- Christian Fellowship
- Prayer
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
Scripture: John 2:12-22
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What is the Gospel?
The Gospel is not just something that happens to me, but something that God does in me.
What is repentance?
The ongoing act of turning away from sin and turning to Jesus.
What is faith?
The ongoing act of believing in God with my life.
Scripture: Mark 1:14-15
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
Do you have hope that the best is yet to come?
The first miracle that Jesus did was turning water into wine at a wedding. Why did he chose this situation for his first miracle? Listen to today’s message to gain insights to the many lessons that were taught by Jesus’ first miracle.
Scripture: John 2: 1-11
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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John, 1:38 Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?”
Jesus, being God, already knew why these men were following Him. So why ask? Because He wanted them to know why they were following Him!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Many people want you to follow them, but there is only one Person worth following. John the Baptist could have held on to his followers, but instead he pointed them to Jesus. It brought him joy when people pursued Christ, even when it meant them leaving John himself. May we be able to say what John the Baptist said about Jesus – “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (Jn 3:30)
Take-Home Message: There is only one Person worth following.
I am not worthy. (19-28)
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Biblical Rewards for Humility
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Riches
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Honor
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Life
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God’s Favor
He is worthy. (29-34)
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The Lamb of God
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The Provisional Lamb (Gen. 22:6-8)
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The Passover Lamb (Ex. 12; 1 Cor. 5:7)
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The Sacrificial Lamb (Lev. 23:19)
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The Suffering Lamb (Is. 53:7)
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The Pure Lamb (1 Pet. 1:18-19)
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The Powerful Lamb (Rev. 6:16; Rev. 17:14)
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The Shepherd Lamb (Rev. 7:17)
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The Marriage Lamb (Rev. 19:1-10)
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The Worthy Lamb (Rev. 5:1-12)
Follow Him! (35-37)
The Lamb of God. John 1:19-37
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Why did God/Jesus need to become one of us? Because there was no other way, if God was to be true to His nature. To be both full of justice and full of grace, Jesus was the only way!
John 1:14-18 And the Word became flesh and we beheld His glory. The glory of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John bore witness to Him and said; This is who I have said; He who comes after me, ranks before me, because He was before me. For from His fullness, we have all received grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. The only god who is at the Father’s side, He has made Him known.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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We can exhaust ourselves trying to make sense of things without God, but without God, we cannot see reality. Without God, we cannot understand ourselves, others, or our purpose in life. God has given us a way to see reality: the true light, the Son of God. Jesus Christ is the light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5). As C.S. Lewis said, “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.”
Take-Home Message: Without the true light, we are blind.
- The Witness (6-8)
- John the Baptist was…
- Sent from God.
- A truth-teller.
- Humble.
- Not the Light.
The Light (9)
- Rejectors of the Light (10-11)
- How did Jesus respond to rejection?
- Asked God, “Why?”
- Remembered His “What”
- Focused on “Who”
- Receivers of the Light (12-13)
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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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
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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If you are a disciple (follower, student) of Jesus, you should long to put into practice His way of life. You want to love like He did, serve like He did, and show kindness and mercy as He did. The problem is… this is a hard thing to do! Thankfully, God’s Word has revealed to us the way to live this out: by presenting yourself to God every day.
Big Idea: As a disciple of Jesus, I must daily present myself to God.
To present myself to God, every day I must…
- Flee my sin
- Remember my Savior
- Submit my soul
So what?
- Trust in Christ fully.
Present Yourself to God: Romans 6:13
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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There are few things that all people can agree on. One of them appears to be that we all hate to wait. But waiting is a mark of the Christian life. We don’t have a choice about whether we will wait or not, but whether we will wait well or poorly. What do Simeon and Anna teach us about waiting well?
Take-Home Message: Worshippers wait well.
Waiting well:
- Simeon’s Wait and Worship (25-32).
- Lessons about Waiting:
- Waiting is not weakness.
- Waiting is not laziness.
- Waiting well requires a Comforter.
- Waiting well requires trusting the Lord.
- Lessons about Waiting:
- Christ’s Cross (33-35).
- Anna’s Wait and Worship (36-38).
Scripture: Luke 2:25-38
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What does it mean to be “saved FROM our sins”?
Not only did Jesus come to save us from our sin, but He also came to deliver us from the POWER of sin!
In other words, the gift of Jesus is not just forgiveness from sin, but victory over sin!
Romans 6:14-:“For sin has no dominion over you, for you are not under law, but under grace.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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God sent His Son…
- At the perfect time (4a).
For the perfect reason (4b-5a).
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Good things that don’t save us
- Baptism
- Communion
- Church attendance
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- Being a “good person”
- We are saved…
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By grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
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With the perfect results (5b-7).
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The perfect results
- Family— adoption as sons
- Freedom— no longer a slave, but a son
- Future— an heir through God
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The Reason for God’s Son
Galatians 4:4-7
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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In the moment God began the Christmas story, He also revealed the answer to the question; “Who Needs Christmas?”
- WE ALL DO! Jesus is our only hope.
- - Jesus… is… the… PLAN!
Scripture: Genesis 12: 1-3
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What does the Bible say about thankfulness?
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1st Thessalonians 5:16-18
Even when we don’t understand, we can rejoice, because God’ is in control. And therefore, be thankful, no matter what our circumstance. God is not asking us to be thankful “for” every circumstance, but to be thankful “in” every circumstance. There’s a difference!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
Jesus, Israel, and the Fig Tree
How should we respond to the events in Israel? Jesus rebuked those who knew how to interpret the weather and not the signs of the times. While no one knows the day or hour of Christ’s return, He expected his followers to interpret current events through the lens of Scripture. When a tree begins to grow leaves, we know that summer is near. In the same way, Jesus’ prophecy points us toward the “leaves” that will precede His return. Christ’s command continues to echo through the centuries: “Stay awake!”
Scripture: Luke 21:29-36
Take Home Message: Be ready.
The Parable (29-31)
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Signs of the times
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Birth pains (8-19)
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A specific sign (20-24)
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Final signs (25-26)
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Christ’s return (27-28)
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How should we respond to the events in Israel?
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Pray
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Support
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Watch
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Take Heart
The Guarantee (32-33)
The Warning (34-36)
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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You may not feel as though your specific set of gifts and graces are fit for ministry, but they are! Give them to Jesus and ask how HE would want to use them!
Parable of the Ten Mina’s
Scripture: Luke 19:12-26 He said, therefore, “A nobleman went to a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and then return. Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas, and said to them; ‘Engage in business until I come’. But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him saying; ‘We do not want this man to reign over us.’ When he returned, having received the kingdom, he ordered his servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called back to him, that he might know what they had gained by doing business. The first came before him saying,’ Lord, your minas, have made ten minas more.’ And he said, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. Because you have been faithful with a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.’ And the second came to hm saying, ‘Lord, your minas have made fie minas.’ And he said to him, ‘You are to be over five cities.’ Then another came to him saying,’ Lord, here is your mina which I kept laid away in a handkerchief, for I was afraid of you because you are a severe man. You take what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.’ And he said to him, ‘I will condemn you with your own words, you wicked servant! You knew that I was a severe man, taking what I did not deposit, and reaping what I did not sow. Why then didn’t you put my money in the bank, so that at my coming I might have collected it with interest?’ And he said to those standing by, ‘Take the mina from him and give it to the one who has ten minas. And they said to him, ‘Lord, he has ten minas!’ I tell you, to everyone who has more, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away…’
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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We can only receive God’s salvation in humility. There is no other way. Humbling ourselves before God can feel like spiritual open-heart surgery, but the result is righteousness and peace! Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy (Proverbs 28:13). The Pharisee justifies himself and remains in his sin. The tax collector humbles himself and receives God’s mercy. Which are you?
Take Home Message: Before we can be saved, we must first admit that we cannot save ourselves.
Scripture: Luke 18:9-14
The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector:
- The Reason (9).
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The Pharisee (10-12).
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Marks of Self-Righteousness
- Self-Absorption
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- Comparison
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- Self-Justification
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- Spiritual Pride
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- The Tax Collector (13).
- Self-Absorption
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Marks of True Repentance
- Personal
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- Specific
-
- Sincere
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- Dependent
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- The Result (14).
- Personal
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The true value of persistent prayer is not in its many words, but being in relationship with God! It’s about NOT giving up when we don’t get the answer that we’re looking for, or in the time that we expect. Yet we stay in relationship with God anyway, because we trust Him!
Luke 18:2-8 In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God or respected man. And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying; ‘Give me justice against my adversaries.’ For awhile he refused, but afterward, he said to himself; ‘Though I neither fear God or respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’ Hear what the unrighteous judge says; Will not God give justice to His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He delay longer over them? I tell you; He will give justice to them speedily. Never the less, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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As followers of Christ, the core of our religion is “forgiveness”. Forgiveness must never be viewed as something deserved. It’s a choice. And choosing forgiveness is the beginning of being set free!
Luke 17:7-10 “Will any of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he comes in from the field, ’Come at once and recline at the table’? Will you not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and only after will you eat and drink. ’Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants. We have only done what is our duty.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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We can forget the truth in a few seconds and believe lies for many years. This is because our hearts are deceitful (Jer 17:9). One of the tricks of the enemy is to try and convince us that we can disregard God’s Word and still embrace God’s Son. This leads to a misunderstanding of who Jesus really is, because it is the Scriptures that bear witness about Him (Jn 5:39).
Rejecting God’s Word will lead us to reject Jesus. Jesus himself said, “For if you believed Moses, you would believe me; for he wrote of me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?” (Jn 5:46-47). True followers of Jesus are those who, “hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience” (Lk 8:15).
Take Home Message: If you don’t believe in God’s Word, you won’t believe in God’s Son.
The Rich Man and Lazarus, Luke 16:19-31
Embracing the Son means…
- Remembering our death (19-23).
- Responding today (24-26).
- Receiving God’s Word (27-31).
Luke 16:1-9 There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. So, he called and said to him; ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be a manager.’ And the manager said to himself; ‘What shall do since the Master is taking the management away from me? I’m not strong enough to dig. And I’m too ashamed to beg. I have decided what will do; When I am removed from management, people will accept me into their homes.’ So, he summons his Master’s debtors and says; ’ How much do you owe my Master? He said; ‘100 measures of oil.’ So, he said to the man; ‘Take your bill and quickly write down 50.’ And he says to another; ‘How much do you owe my Master?’ And the man said; ‘100 measures of wheat.’ So, he said; ‘Take your bill and quickly write down 80.’ And the Master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness, saying; ‘The sons of this world are more shrewd than the sons of light.’
The Parable of the Dishonest Manager is perhaps the hardest parable of them all, to understand. On the surface it appears Jesus is giving “props” to this guy for being dishonest! Doesn’t it?
o But pay attention to what He actually said: In verse 8 it says The Master commended the dishonest manager for his ‘shrewdness’!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The gospel is as much about the Father as it is the Son. Jesus did not come to earth to convince a begrudging Father to accept us; He partnered with a loving Father to save us (John 3:16). The Father planned our salvation, the Son accomplished it, and the Holy Spirit applies it.
The resounding message of the gospel is this: “Come home.” What is our heart toward the lost when they come home through Christ? To resent it when the lost are found is to have a heart like Satan. To rejoice when the lost are found is to have a heart like God.
Take Home Message: The Father longs for you to come home.
The Parable of the Prodigal Son:
- The Younger Son’s Rebellion (11-13).
- The Younger Son’s Ruin (14-16).
- The Younger Son’s Repentance (17-20a).
- The Father’s Response (20b-24).
- The Older Son’s Refusal (25-32).
The Prodigal Son: Luke 15:11-32
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have you ever asked a question like this: “Of all the people of the world, why/how would God care about me?”
Jesus is pursuing a relationship with you! The question is; Do you want a relationship with Him?!
Luke 15:3-10So He told them this parable: “What man among you, having 100 sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety nine in the open country and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulder, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them; ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance. Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, and sweep the house diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying; ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost!’ Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus felt compassion for the crowds even as he challenged them. He did not water down the truth to gain fans; he told them that whoever would follow him must take up his or her cross daily (Luke 9:23). As Paul wrote, “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). But even though the world rejects followers of Jesus, God welcomes them into his family. And what can the world offer that compares to being a child of God?
Take Home Message: Jesus wants followers, not fans.
The Tower Builder and the Warring King
Scripture: Luke 14:25-35
Following Jesus means…
- Carrying our cross (25-27).
- Counting the cost (28-32).
- Committing our all (33-35).
God has invited us into the greatest Kingdom of all, yet so few take up the invitation. Why do so many reject the Kingdom? “It would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” -C.S. Lewis. Yet even now the invitation still stands! “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 3:15).
Take Home Message: What is keeping you from the Kingdom?
The Parable of the Great Banquet Luke 14:12-24
Kingdom citizens have…
- Renewed minds (12-14).
- Right priorities (15-20).
- Received grace (21-23).
- Responsive faith (24).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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How Authentically Humble ae You?
One of the greatest examples of servant leadership was performed by Jesus at His Last Supper., when He washed the feet of His disciples.
Luke 14:7-11 Now He told a parable to those who were invited, when He notice how they chose places of honor, saying to them; “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, and he who invited you both, will come to you and say; ‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will with shame have to take the lowest place. But instead, go to the lowest place first, so that when the host comes, he may say to you; ‘Friend, move up higher. ’Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and everyone who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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How should we respond when we face difficult times?
Luke 13:6-9 A man had a fig tree planted in a vineyard, and one day he came seeking fruit, but found none. So, he says to the vine-dresser; “For three years I’ve come seeking fruit from this tree and I’ve found none. Cut it down. Why should it keep using up ground?” But the vinedresser responds and says: “Sir, leave it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put on some manure. Then, if it bears fruit next year, it’s all well and good. But if not, you can cut it down then.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Theme: The Parable of the Faithful Doorkeeper, Scripture: Luke 12:35-40
Much of Luke Chapter twelve revolves around the issue of “stewardship”:
o Stewardship of the Gospel
o Stewardship of Possessions
o Stewardship of Time
Today’s parable deals in part, with the stewardship issue of “waiting” (time).
Luke 12:35-40
o Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants who the master finds awake when he comes. Truly I say to you, he will dress himself for service and have them recline at the table, and he will come and serve them. If he comes in the second watch or in the third, and finds them awake, blessed are those servants. But know this, if the master of the house had known what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left the house for it to be broken into. You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
What is the value of “waiting” according to this parable?
o You shall be blessed… IF… you learn to wait well!
The most important thing to remember about “waiting-well”:
o Isaiah 40:31- Those who wait upon the LORD, shall renew their strength. They shall mount up on wings like eagles. They shall run and not grow weary. They shall walk and not faint.
In other words, waiting for the sake of waiting is NOT a virtue. Waiting upon the Lord, is!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The danger of having abundant possessions is that we can begin to trust them rather than God. We can let our possessions get in the way of our purpose and think that material security equals spiritual security. But the Bible teaches the wealthy how to be truly rich toward God– “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” (1 Tim. 6:17-19).
Take Home Message: Some mistakes have eternal consequences.
I’m a fool when I mistake…
- Possessions for purpose (13-15).
- Myself for God (16-18).
- Material security for spiritual security (19).
- Now for eternity (20-21).
The Rich Fool, Luke 12:13-21
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The enemy wants us to believe that God doesn’t care about our burdens, but that is not what the Bible says. God tells us to cast all our anxieties on Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Jesus went to His Father repeatedly in prayer. He rose early to pray and spent full nights in prayer, and His Father supplied Him with everything He needed. The question is not “Does God care?” It is “Do we persist in prayer?” Jesus did, and He teaches us to do the same.
Take Home Message: Persist in prayer.
God blesses…
- Bold prayer (5-8).
- Persistent prayer (9-10).
- Expectant prayer (11-13).
The Parable of the Friend at Midnight, Luke 11:5-13
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The danger of being a Bible expert is thinking that you have it all figured out. Bible knowledge is good, but it does not guarantee that you are following Jesus. Following Jesus is doing what the Bible says. Often in Jesus’ teaching, biblical obedience comes from people that his hearers least expected. Last week it was the woman who was a sinner (Lk. 7:36-50), and here it is a Samaritan. As Jesus said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.” (Lk. 10:21)
Take Home Message: Following Jesus is more than Bible knowledge.
Following Jesus means…
- Approaching God’s Word humbly (25-29).
- Loving our enemies (30-33).
- Going the extra mile (34-37).
The Good Samaritan, Luke 10:25-37
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What does God value? It may not be what you think. The world is impressed with outward appearances, but God looks at the heart. God desires people who truly grasp the depth of their sin and their need to be forgiven. As Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” (Lk. 5:31-32)
Take Home Message: To know our forgiveness is to love our Forgiver.
Our Forgiver values…
- Courageous pursuit (36-40).
- Reverential love (41-46).
- Saving faith (47-50).
The Two Debtors, Luke 7:36-50
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Jesus’ life was a rollercoaster, yet He was the most stable person to ever live. How did He do it? By submitting His life to the Father through obedience to God’s Word. In the same way, our stability flows from submission to Jesus, which is submission to God’s Word. Floods are inevitable, but those who obey God’s Word will weather the flood. In contrast, those who refuse to obey will not be able to withstand the flood. If you want stability in your life, resolve to do this: submit to Jesus through obedience to God’s Word. As Jesus said, blessed are those who hear the Word of God and obey it (Luke 11:28).
Take Home Message: Stability flows from submission to the Word.
Stability flows from…
- Integrity (46).
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Discipleship (47-48).
- The Cycle of Discipleship
- Seek
- Hear
- Do
- Obedience (49).
- The Cycle of Discipleship
The House on the Rock Scripture: Luke 6:46-49
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Bible makes clear that those who know Jesus will follow Jesus. The two are inextricably linked, yet we have a tendency to try and separate them. While works are not the cause of our salvation, they are evidence that we’ve received it. You can’t work your way into the Kingdom of Heaven, but after you enter through Jesus, work with all your might! As Jesus said, “We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4)
Take Home Message: To know Jesus is to follow Jesus.
King Jesus requires…
- A personal relationship (31-33).
- An evident faith (34-40).
- A permanent judgment (41-46).
The Sheep and the Goats: Matthew 25:31-46
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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When you stand before God, you won’t give an account for what you did not have.
You won’t give an account for someone else’s family, someone else’s job, someone else’s finances, someone else’s singleness or marriage. You will give an account for how you managed your family, job, finances, and relationships.
But many of us spend our lives more worried about what we don’t have than what we do have. Rather than making comparisons, God calls us to make the most of what He has given us.
So, what do you have? What has God entrusted to you? Are you making the most of it? If you can’t be trusted with a little, you can’t be trusted with much (Luke 16:10).
The Parable of the Talents. Matthew 25:14-30
Take Home Message: Be a star in your role.
The Parable of the Talents teaches us to…
- Embrace our role (14-15).
-
My role is…
- Servant, not Lord.
-
- Manager, not Owner.
-
- Created, not Creator.
- Remember our reward (16-23).
- Avoid our ruin (24-30).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What is the difference between religion and having a relationship with Jesus Christ?
Listen to this message to better understand the Parable of the Ten Virgins and how it relates directly to your life.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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As Christians, with a biblical worldview, it’s important to remember that our “purpose” never changes! Our roles and responsibilities may change, but our purpose NEVER changes!
And what is our purpose? (Matthew 22:37-39) Love God and Love others as we would want to be loved.
Matthew 24:45-48 “Who then is the faithful and wise servant that the Master has set over the house? Blessed is the servant that the Master finds doing what He is supposed to do when He returns. Truly that servant will be rewarded. But if that servant says; My Master is delayed, therefore I will mistreat others and live a sinful life, when the Master returns unexpectantly, He will cut them into pieces and put them with the hypocrites in that place of weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Things to glean from this parable:
- This is serious business!
- He, Jesus, IS coming back!
- Be prepared!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Parable of the Wedding Feast
Matthew 22:1-14
Much about the Kingdom of Heaven is not what we expect. We see this in who responds to heaven’s invitation, which is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Tragically, many reject the invitation. But the least expected respond with joy and attend. This may seem upside down to us, but not to God. As Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.” (Mt. 11:25-26)
Take Home Message: How do you respond to Heaven’s invitation?
Heaven’s invitation is…
- Offered as a gift (1-2)
- Rejected by the first (3-7)
- Extended to the last (8-10)
- Embraced by the few (11-14).
Take Home Questions
- Have you put on the only wedding garment?
- What excuses are keeping you from the feast?
The irony of the Good News: Jesus’ death was actually the linchpin of His strategy to save the world!
Check-mate… Game over… Jesus wins!
And so do we, if only we will trust Him as Lord!
Scripture: Matthew 21:33-45
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What lie is the Devil trying to sell you? That you are so bad that God doesn’t want anything to do with you? Or, that you are so good, that you have nothing to repent of?
BOTH are lies! Repent, and turn to Jesus!
The Parable of the Two Sons
Scripture: Matthew 21:28-32
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Laborer’s and the Vineyard
The whole idea of “fairness” is subjective, meaning, it’s often in the eye of the bolder. So, what do you think is “fair” from God’s perspective?
Join us for the message this Sunday to learn about this important parable from Christ.
Matthew 20:1-16
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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There are no long-term relationships without forgiveness. Why? Because we live in a broken world. We wrong others, and others wrong us. Peter understood this when he asked Jesus, how often should I forgive? Jesus’ answer is offensive to many. Doesn’t He know how I’ve been wronged?! Jesus does know, and He also has the right to command us to forgive. Why? Because He was wronged far greater than anyone who ever lived. Yet He responded, “Father, forgive them.”
Take Home Message: We forgive because we have been forgiven.
We forgive because…
- Our world is broken (21-22).
- Our debt has been forgiven (23-27).
- Our refusal kills our witness (28-31).
- Our Lord demands forgiveness (32-35).
What does the Parable of the Dragnet mean? There is more to this lesson than first meets the eye! Remember, this is not a game.
Matthew 13:47-50: 47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. 48 When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What did Jesus mean when he gave the commandment “Follow Me”?
The Resurrection Story is the greatest story in world history! But there’s more to the story than what we often remember. The Resurrection isn’t the culmination of anything. It’s the beginning of everything! Jesus is saying to each of us: “Come Follow Me!”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Our Humble King
Matthew 21:1-11
“Humility is something we should constantly pray for, yet never thank God that we have.” -M.R. DeHaan. When it comes to Christian virtues, humility is among the top of the list. Many people are too proud to be used by God. Few people are humble enough to be used by God. God watches over the humble and gives grace to the humble. Jesus is the perfect example of humility. He personifies power under control. He is our humble king.
Take Home Message: Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, but He will return on a horse.
Our humble king is a…
- Promise keeper (1-5).
- God pleaser (6-9).
- Judgment bringer (10-11).
Take Home Questions
- Have you humbled yourself before our humble king?
- Are you gentle and lowly like our humble king?
- Who do you need to introduce to our humble king?
Matthew 19:16 “Teacher, what good deed must I do to inherit eternal life?” Do you know the answer to this question?
Series: No Wonder They Crucified Him
Message: Check Your Bags
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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As human beings, when we allow anything other than Christ to define us it will lead to bondage!
We are only made righteous through Christ’s death and resurrection. A fact that covers ALL our sins!
Giving the pleasures of this world a place in your life they don’t deserve, by allowing them to give your life purpose and meaning, will kill your joy. For that place only belongs to Jesus!
Series: No Wonder They Crucified Him
Theme: Patrol your Passions
Scripture: Matthew 5:27-30
There is a great irony about the gospel: it is good news, but it offends many people. Why was Jesus crucified? Because the Bible calls Him a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to those who do not believe. As the gospel message continues to be proclaimed throughout the world, Jesus says, “Blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” Those who believe in Jesus Christ are not offended by Him, and God acquits them of all charges with a verdict of “not guilty.” Believers see Jesus for who He truly is: one who is gentle and lowly in heart, who does not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Blessed are those who are not offended by Him.
Take Home Message: The gospel offers us a choice: offended or acquitted.
- The gospel exposes our rebellion (1-3).
- The gospel magnifies God’s righteousness (4-7).
- The gospel tears down our religion (8-9).
- The gospel pleads for our repentance (10).
- Are you “on the fence” when it comes to Jesus?
- Is Jesus only your Lord when you like it or it’s convenient?
- Do you truly want what Jesus wants?
There’s no setting on the fence when it comes to Jesus.
Series: No Wonder they Crucified Him
Theme: Get Off the Fence
Scripture: Matthew 12:22-30
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Running with Endurance
Hebrews 12:1-3
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, which is a 40-day period (not counting Sundays) leading to Easter Sunday. The 40 days represents Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness and invites us to prepare for Christ’s death and resurrection. Ash Wednesday is a time for repentance, which means turning away from sin and toward God. It should lead to a renewed resolve to make the most of the time that we have (Eph. 5:16). Hebrews 12 compares the Christian life to a race. How do we run the race of faith with endurance? By looking to Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of our faith.
Take Home Message: We endure the race of __________ by fixing our eyes on the __________ of our faith.
The Founder of our faith has given us…
A __________ to fulfill.
- Hebrews 12:1– Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.
An example to __________.
- Hebrews 12:2– Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
A __________ to fight.
- Hebrews 12:3– Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
The stories that inspire us tell of men and women who gave up everything to follow Jesus. They see the Kingdom of Heaven as priceless, selling everything to obtain it. This is the paradox of the Kingdom–salvation is a free gift, yet followers of Christ freely sacrifice everything for it. How we receive the Kingdom of Heaven reveals the true treasure of our heart. When confronted with Christ, do we go away sorrowfully like the rich young ruler? Or can we say with Peter, “we have left everything and followed you.” (Matt. 19:16-30)? For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18).
Take Home Message: No sacrifice is too great for a Kingdom of supreme worth.
Lessons from the Treasure and the Pearl
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God graciously pursues the lost.
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Matt. 13:44– The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up.
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People are earnestly searching for true meaning.
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Matt. 13:45– Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls.
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Believers gladly sacrifice all for the Kingdom.
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Matt: 13:45-46– 44 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 he has and buys that field. 45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, 46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Take Home Questions
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Is Christ my Lord?
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What areas of my life are off limits?
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Have I fully grasped the riches of knowing Christ?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Matthew 13:31-33 The Kingdom of Heaven is like a Muster Seed that a man sowed in a field. It’s the smallest of seeds, but when it grows it becomes the largest of all the plants in the garden, like a tree, so that even the birds come and make their nests in it branches. And the Kingdom of God is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.
Two applications of these parables for today:
-
First , they are a reminder to us that we are special to God, and that He has a purpose for all of us.
- But what makes us special is NOT us. We are special because of God!
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Second, in God’s economy, even the smallest of thing have huge potential.
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So, never believe that what you have to offer isn’t important. God just might use you to change the world
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Parable of the Weeds
Matthew 13:36-43 Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.
Things we can look for to discern the “wheat” from the “weeds”:
- Trust each other, but don’t be stupid! Trust, but verify.
- Be careful of “theological gymnasts”! It’s great to have questions, but beware of those questions that are actually an attempt to justify sin.
- Gravitate towards humility and obedience.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Mathew 9:16-17No one puts a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will tear away and make the tear worse. And neither should you put new wine into old wineskins, for the new wine will cause the old skins to burst. Instead, put new wine into new wineskins and both shall be preserved.
Who Am I to Judge?
Matthew 7:1-5
Biblical discernment is the ability to distinguish good from evil according to the Bible. Living with biblical discernment is not just an option, it is a God-given responsibility. We need to recover biblical discernment in our churches, and it starts with understanding what it means to “judge not.” Sadly, Christians have often neglected their responsibility to confront serious sin in the church by saying, “Who am I to judge?” This is a misunderstanding of what it means to “judge not” (1 Cor. 5:12-13). So, what does it mean to have biblical discernment?
Take Home Message: God has given us the responsibility of biblical discernment.
Biblical discernment means…
- We treat each other fairly.
- Matt. 7:1-2– “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.
- We see each other clearly.
- Matt. 7:3-4– Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye?
- We correct each other gently.
- Matt. 7:5– You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.”
Take Home Questions
- Are you in the Word?
- Are Christians in your life?
- Are you practicing what you preach?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Simple Worship. Authentic Discipleship. Serve like Jesus.
If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?
Matthew 5:13-16, Parable of Salt & Light: “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. “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.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Parable of the Sower
A parable can either “reveal” or “conceal” a message. It all depends on the condition of the person’s heart! Meaning, if you’re not looking for the TRUTH, you could get lost in the details and miss it altogether!
Scripture: Matthew 13
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Purpose of the Parables
Matthew 13:10-17
Every time you hear the Word of God, you take a risk. That is because we will be judged based on what we have been given. The people in Jesus’ day had the law and the prophets, yet many were disobedient. But for those who truly knew God, Jesus’ parables were enlightening. The parables reveal truth to believers and veil truth from hardened hearts. Jesus says, “So pay attention to how you hear. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what they think they understand will be taken away from them.” (Luke 8:18)
Take Home Message: Are you listening?
The Parables teach us to…
Be faithful with what we have (10-12).
- Matt. 13:12– For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.
Pay attention to how we hear (13-15).
- Matt. 13:15– For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.
Give thanks for God’s grace (16-17).
- Matt. 13:16-17– But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.
Who is Jesus?
John 14:6
Each Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. But who isJesus? Why was He born? Why is He still relevant to our lives 2,000 years later? These are important questions. When Thomas asks Jesus, “How can we know the way?” Jesus responds, “I am the way.” What is the Christmas season all about? It is about Jesus, the only bridge between God and man.
Take Home Message: Jesus Christ alone bridges the gap between God and man.
John 14:6– Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Christmas is all about Jesus, who is…
- Equal with God.
- “I am.”
- The Way.
- “I am the way.”
- The Truth.
- I am… the truth.”
- The Life.
- I am… the life.”
- The Only Way.
- “No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Luke 2: 8-18
8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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God’s Purpose in Our Pain
Matthew 1:18-21
Have you ever been a situation where there seems to be no right answer? That must have been how Joseph felt when he first learned that Mary was pregnant. How did he handle this painful situation? We often forget about Joseph when it comes to the Christmas story. Joseph has no words recorded in Scripture, but he speaks by his actions. We will see that just as God chose Mary to raise Jesus, he also chose this quiet, righteous carpenter. Joseph, though dead, still speaks through his faith (Heb. 11:4).
Take Home Message: God can use our greatest pain for his greatest purposes.
Joseph walked with God through…
- The Pain.
- Matt. 1:18– Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.
- The Wrestling.
- Matt. 1:19– And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.
- The Relief.
- Matt. 1:20– But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
- The Purpose.
- Matt. 1:21– She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
Take Home Questions
- Do you believe that God is in control?
- Do you believe that God is good?
- Will you trust and obey God when things don’t make sense?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
- Simple Worship
- Authentic Disciples
- Serve Like Jesus
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Remember to Surrender
Every day God has an assignment for you. Have you figured out yet what it is?
You need to remember to surrender to God every day. Let the Holy Spirit work through you to discover the adventure that Jesus has in store for you.
Luke 9:23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Adventure
John 1:47-50
A life lived for Christ, in the Spirit, should NOT be an obligation…
o It’s a privileged adventure that you don’t want to miss!
Setting up our passage for today:
o When Jesus is baptized, almost immediately John the Baptist proclaims that He is the very “Lamb of God”!
§ From that moment on Jesus sets out on a great adventure to Save the world!
· What’s cool is, Jesus invites others to join Him on the adventure.
o One of those that He invites is a guy named Nathaniel.
John 1:47-50
o Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”
Jesus’ message to all of us?
o This adventure I’m calling you to is not an obligation… it’s a privilege!
Come to Me and DrinkJohn 7:37-39
There is no substitute for contentment in Christ. When Jesus Christ is our pursuit, He leaves our hearts so satisfied that we don’t need anything else. To those who thirst, Jesus says, “come to me and drink.” Whoever drinks of the water that Jesus gives will never thirst again (Jn. 4:14). As Augustine once said, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”
John 7:37-39– 37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” 39 Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
Take Home Message: There is no substitute for contentment in Christ.
Contentment in Christ flows from…
Running to Him first.
- Jn. 7:37– On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.”
Trusting in Him alone.
- Jn. 7:38– “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”
Being filled with the Spirit.
- Jn. 7:39– Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Our Response to “the Gift”
When was the last time you were “filled with the Holy Spirit”?
The biggest stumbling block to having a relationship with the Holy Spirit is whether or not we are willing to let HIM be in control of our lives.
You need to ask yourself, “Have I given control of my life to Him?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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I Chose You
John 15:16
Jesus told his followers, “You did not choose me, but I chose you.” What an amazing statement! Have you considered that God chose you? For God “saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.” (1 Tim. 1:9) God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called. If He has called us, He will provide his Holy Spirit for us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to overcome every obstacle as we live out His calling for our lives.
Take Home Message: Because God chose us, He will also equip us.
John 15:16- You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
Because God chose us, He will…
Assign our position.
- “I… appointed you”
Empower our work.
- “that you should go and bear fruit”
Preserve our reward.
- “and that your fruit should abide”
Answer our prayers.
- “so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Series: What’s so spiritual about your gifts?
Theme: Whom God uses…
Scripture: Romans 12:1-3
Romans 12:1- “Give your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.”
o The first thing God’s looking for when deciding who He will use: Are you available?
Romans 12:2- “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed in the renewing of your mind.”
o The second thing God’s looking for: Who/what governs you? The opinion of God or the opinion of Man?
Romans 12:3- “Do not think of yourselves more highly than you ought, but with sober judgement, according to the measure of faith that God has given.”
o The final thing god’s looking for: Are you Humble?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have You Embraced the Giver of Spiritual Gifts?
Series: “What’s so spiritual about your gifts?”
Theme: The “Talent Trap”
Scripture: Acts 2:42-47 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe[a] came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved
So what’s so dangerous about not recognizing the difference between natural gifts and spiritual gifts? Simply this: As valuable as our natural gifts are, they are not as valuable as “THE GIFT” of the Holy Spirit working within you!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The RelationshipThe Relationship
What kind of relationship do you have with the Holy Spirit?
John 16:7- “I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go. For if I do not go, the Helper will not come. But if I do, I will send Him to you.”
In other words, anyone who accepts Jesus as Lord will be indwelled by God, the Holy Spirit! The Holy Spirit will be in you, guiding you, and empowering you, for the mission of bringing the gospel to the world!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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A Call for Unity
2 Corinthians 13:11
No church is perfect. In fact, the moment you walk into a church it becomes an imperfect church. Why? Because, though we’ve been declared righteous by the work of Christ, we are still sinners. And because we are sinners, unity takes work. In John 17, Jesus repeatedly asks the Father that Christians be united for the sake of our testimony. In a world so divided, what a bright light Christian unity shines to those around us!
Take Home Message: When we lose our unity, we lose our testimony.
2 Corinthians 13:11– Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Gospel unity calls us to pursue…
- Wholeness.
- “Rejoice. Aim for restoration.”
- Agreement.
- “Comfort one another. Agree with one another.”
- Peace.
- “Live in peace.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Power through Weakness
What is a person’s greatest strength? Recognizing their greatest weaknesses!
Corinthians 12:8-10 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he 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.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Privilege of Suffering
Everyone suffers… it’s unavoidable. The good news is that in the hands of God our suffering is given meaning.
Are you suffering without purpose? This can be avoided simply by offering your suffering to Christ!
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 11:24-25
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Tearing Down Strongholds
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Everyone has a stronghold. A stronghold is where we run when things get difficult. In Paul’s day, it was a fortress where people would run to escape danger. Spiritually, a stronghold is anything on which we depend. The world offers us many strongholds that are counterfeits. These strongholds do not keep their promises and do not satisfy. Jesus Christ is the only stronghold that we can fully trust, and the gospel alone has the power to tear down all counterfeit strongholds. Be encouraged: there is no stronghold which has overtaken you that the gospel of Jesus Christ cannot destroy.
Take Home Message: No stronghold can stand against the power of the gospel.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ Destroys…
Counterfeit Warfare.
- 2 Cor. 10:3- For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh.
Counterfeit Worship.
- 2 Cor. 10:4- For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds
Counterfeit Worldviews.
- 2 Cor. 10:5- We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Generosity”- Cheerful Givers
The Bible teaches that we should not give out of guilt and obligation. God loves a cheerful giver!
Whoever sows sparingly, will reap sparingly. And whoever sows bountifully, will reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his own heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver! 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prayer & Praise Service focusing on four primary areas;
Session 1 – Prayers for our Children’s Ministry
Session 2- Missions/Missionaries
Session 3- Prayers for the kickoff of our fall ministries
Session 4- Labor Day/World/Sept. 11th remembrance
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What does the Bible say about generosity to others?
Ask yourself this question: Am I known for my generosity?
2 Corinthians 8:1-7 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. 6 Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. 7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Conflict, Grief, and Holiness
2 Corinthians 7:8-11
To be holy means to be separate, or set apart. In a culture that calls us to affirm everything, we must remember that God calls us to be holy. God will even allow confrontation to bring about holiness, and this relational conflict causes immense grief for everyone involved. In 2 Corinthians 7, Paul had written a severe letter to the Corinthian church to confront their sin. This letter grieved both Paul and his recipients, but its end result was Paul’s joy and their holiness. How do we know that our grief is godly grief, and how does God use it to grow our holiness?
Take Home Message: God uses our grief to grow our holiness.
Godly grief produces…
-
Holiness through remorse.
- 2 Corinthians 7:8- For even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it—though I did regret it, for I see that that letter grieved you, though only for a while.
- Holiness through repentance.
- 2 Corinthians 7:9-10- As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.
- Holiness through righteousness.
- 2 Corinthians 7:11- For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what punishment! At every point you have proved yourselves innocent in the matter.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Do Not Be Unequally Yoked”, Prairie Bible Church Message, August 14, 2022
What rock are you standing on? Are you strong enough to be the influencer and not the one being influenced?
Hear what the Bible says about the different world views of Christians vs. non-Christians and how you should handle these situations.
2 Corinthians 6:11- 12 “We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections towards us.” “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? What fellowship had light with the darkness?”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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You have a choice. Are you going to let the frailties of your human body define you, or are you going to let Jesus define who you are?
New Creation: Prairie Bible Message, August 7, 2022
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
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Defeating Discouragement
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Discouragement is taking a toll on Christians at a staggering rate, but Jesus Christ shows us a better way. One way that Jesus defeated discouragement was by choosing the right priorities. He didn’t focus on everything. He didn’t put everything first. He had clear priorities. What priorities has Jesus provided to help us overcome discouragement in Him?
Take Home Message: We defeat discouragement by choosing Christ’s priorities.
We defeat discouragement by prioritizing…
-Spiritual strength over physical strength.
-2 Corinthians 4:16- So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.
-1 Cor 15:31; 2 Cor 11:24-28; Rom 11:33
-Weight of glory over worldly comfort.
-2 Corinthians 4:17- For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.
-Faith in Christ over faith in sight.
-2 Corinthians 4:18- As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
-Heb 11:1; 2 Kgs 6:8-23
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Freedom to Change
2 Corinthians 3:16-18
Many people settle for a form of freedom that is not the real thing. Culture tells us that freedom is being our own lord, but the Bible tells us that true freedom comes when we turn to the Lord. Turning to the Lord is the first step toward a life of real and lasting freedom.
Take Home Message: Turning to the Lord __________ us to truly __________.
Turning to the Lord frees us…
From spiritual _____________.
-
2 Corinthians 3:16- But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed.
-
Phil 3:4-7; 1 Cor 4:3-4; Jn 9:25
-
What keeps us from turning to Christ?
-
Position
-
Possessions
-
Pleasure
-
Power
-
Pride
From spiritual _____________.
-
2 Corinthians 3:17- Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
-
Gal 5:1,13; Phil 4:9; Jas 5:16; 1 Jn 1:9; Jn 8:31-32
-
How do we remain in Christ’s freedom?
-
We ____________ what we already know.
-
We confess our ____________.
-
We ____________ the truth.
For spiritual _____________.
-
2 Corinthians 3:18- And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
-
Heb 12:14; Mt 5:8; 1 Jn 3:2
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Captive to Christ
2 Corinthians 2:14-17
Humanity is captive to sin, but Jesus’ death on the cross has paid the ransom. All who accept this free and gracious gift become children of God! Because Christ conquered sin and death, we are now captive to Him. Captivity to Christ is not burdensome, but it does come with a mission: pointing others toward salvation in Him alone.
Take Home Message: Faithful captives point others toward someone greater.
Faithful captives point others toward…
- Christ’s victory.
- 2 Corinthians 2:14a- But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession.
- Christ’s word.
- 2 Corinthians 2:14b- And through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
- Christ’s sacrifice.
- 2 Corinthians 2:15-16a- 15 For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, 16 to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life.
- Christ’s sufficiency.
- 2 Corinthians 2:16b-17- Who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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God of All Comfort
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
There are two inevitable truths for followers of Jesus Christ: 1) We will suffer in this life. 2) God will never leave or forsake us in the midst of our suffering. 2 Corinthians is Paul’s most emotional and personal letter. It is a deep well of comfort and encouragement for Christians who are experiencing affliction. Paul begins this letter by pointing Christians to the God of all comfort, who never abandons His children.
Take Home Message: The God of all comfort never abandons His children.
In the midst of trials, God provides…
* Comfort in all our affliction (v. 4).
+ **2 Corinthians 1:4-** who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
-
Christ in all our sufferings (v. 5).
- 2 Corinthians 1:5- For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
-
Christians for all our journey (v. 6-7).
-
2 Corinthians 1:6-7- 6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. 7 Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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A Call to Stand Firm
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
July 3, 2022
Imagine that you are at war, and you are leading a battalion into battle. As you are preparing for this battle, someone approaches you with a book. You open the book and discover that it contains all of the enemy’s key positions, strategies, weapons and plans of attack. Would you read that book? We are in a spiritual war, and this war is for our souls. But we have a book! This book contains everything we need to win the spiritual war. Through following Jesus Christ and obeying His Word, we can win the spiritual war.
Take Home Message: The spiritual war can only be won by following God’s marching orders.
God’s Marching Orders Demand…
- My Alertness.
- Be watchful, stand firm in the faith (v. 13).
- My Advancement.
- Act Like Men, Be Strong (v. 13).
- My Affection.
- Let all that you do be done in love (v. 14).
The Resurrection
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:34-58
Is the person who you are in the “inside”, the same person you want to take with you into eternity?
Remember, it’s more about Christ than it is about you!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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My Grace is Sufficient for You
Prairie Bible Message, June 19, 2022
1 Corinthians 15:9-10
This was God’s response to Paul when he pleaded with the Lord three times concerning his thorn in the flesh (2 Corinthians 12:9): “My grace is sufficient for you.” For all Christians in all places at all times, the grace of God in Christ has proven sufficient. Know this, Christian: God’s grace is sufficient to meet your every need. May this message encourage you to cling to the grace of God in the midst of whatever trials you may be facing today.
Take Home Message: God’s grace is sufficient for my past, present and future.
God’s grace is sufficient for…
- My Past.
-
1 Corinthians 15:9-10a- For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am.
-
My Present.
- 1 Corinthians 15:10b- And his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them.
- My Future.
- 1 Corinthians 15:10c- Though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.
Sim
ple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“God is not a God of Confusion”, Prairie Bible Message, June 12, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Paul addresses many difficult areas in his letters to the Corinthians. Today’s message on the roles of men and women in the church has been interpreted to mean different things.
Pastor Craig emphasizes that our interpretations of these verses should always be Bible based, and not culture based.
As a church, we need to respect different Bible based interpretations and not allow the devil to use these differences to distract us from the Main Thing - which is worshipping Jesus Christ!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts”, Prairie Bible Message, June 5, 2022
1 Corinthians 14:1-25
- All Spiritual Gifts come from God.
- Spiritual Gifts that are not birthed in LOVE are useless and potentially damaging.
- The purpose of Spiritual Gifts is to build up the Church, so that we might better represent Jesus to the world.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Theme: “Love” Prairie Bible Message, May 22, 2022
1 Corinthians 12:12-31
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
- 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.
- Love never ends.
In other words: LOVE looks like Jesus!!!! Jesus was forever and always putting the needs of others before His own, even unto death!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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God’s Recipe for His Ultimate Team, Prairie Bible Message, May 15, 2022
1 Corinthians 12:12-31
When you place your faith, hope and trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ, you become a member of the body of Christ. God has designed the church in a way that every member of the body of Christ matters. If the body of Christ has made you feel as if you do not have value, that is not from God. That is a result of man’s sin. God values you and loves you and wants you in His church. At Prairie Bible Church we value you and love you and want you here.
We are all members of teams– for example, in our families and our workplaces– but the most important team we are members of is the church. The church is the body of Christ, God’s ultimate team. In this famous passage, Paul helps us answer the question, “What is God’s recipe for His ultimate team, and what does that mean for us?”
God’s Ultimate Team has…
- One Unifying Identity (12-13).
- Many Valuable Members (14-24a).
- One Powerful Togetherness (24b-26).
- Many Active Ministries (27-31).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Who Doesn’t Love Getting Gifts?!”, Prairie Bible Message, May 8, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Four Lessons that need to be learned regarding Spiritual Gifts:
- Lesson #1- You will need discernment when exercising Spiritual gifts.
- Lesson #2- All Spiritual gifts are from God, and they ALL have a purpose!
- To glorify God and further His Kingdom! (vs. 4-5)
- Lesson #3- If you’ve accepted Jesus as Lord, God has given you at least one Spiritual Gift.
- So, don’t think you’re more spiritual than anyone else! You’re ALL valuable! (vs. 6-7)
- Lesson #4- God is the one who decides which gift you get!
- Not YOU! (vs. 11)
And Jesus is the litmus test
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“A Picture to touch the Heart”, Prairie Bible Message, May 1, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
For far too many of us Communion is just a mindless religious ceremony. May we begin experiencing the sacrament of Communion as Jesus intended- as a picture left by our Lord that is not only meant to remind us of what He has done for us, but may it touch our hearts in a way that calls us to action!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Seeking Clarity in a Confused Culture, Prairie Bible Service, April 24, 2022
Scripture: 1 Cor 11:2-16
There was a lot of confusion in the city of Corinth when it came to men, women, and how they relate to each other, and this confusion had crept into the Corinthian church. Paul, by the power of the Holy Spirit, brings clarity to the situation. This clarity includes timeless truths for us today on these same issues.
Timeless Truths from 1 Corinthians 11:2-16
- We submit to God’s order because Jesus Christ submitted to God’s order (v. 2-3).
- God’s order includes distinctions (v. 4-10).
- God’s order includes dependence (v. 11-12).
- God has graciously given order to protect us from chaos (v. 13-16).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Ultimate Oxymoron”, Prairie Bible Message, Easter Sunday
The “Oxymoronic Truth” that Jesus died but is now ALIVE is the proof that our sin and brokenness need not define our future. We have a choice… and His name is Jesus! He is risen. He is risen indeed!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Faithful King and the Fleeting Crowd
John 12:12-19
Passion Week is the most important week in human history, and Palm Sunday marks the first day of that week. On Palm Sunday, Jesus makes His triumphal entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey. This is one of the rare events recorded in all four Gospels. With chaos surrounding him, Jesus set His face toward the Father in the most important week of His life. As followers of Jesus Christ, what lessons can we learn from the actions of our Faithful King in the midst of the fleeting crowd?
Luke 9:51- When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.
- “he set his face”: This is a Jewish expression for a firm, unwavering resolve to complete a task.
Jesus Christ set His face toward…
- His Father’s mission, not man’s acceptance (v. 12-13).
- His Father’s Word, not man’s opinion (v. 14-16).
- His Father’s will, not man’s tradition (v. 17-19).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What does "All things should be done for the Lord" mean? Prairie Bible Message, April 3, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:31 “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.”
Have you allowed your faith to influence ALL of your life? The Bible instructs us that EVERYTHING we do should be for God. Culture teaches us faith is not supposed to enter schools and the workplace. That is not what the Bible teaches!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Temptation”, Prairie Bible Message, March 27, 2022
Often, we Christians believe WE need to be strong enough to stand up to the temptations of today. That is a lie from the Devil! Remember, it’s only when we admit we are powerless and surrender to Jesus that true victory comes!
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not allow you to be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Prayer Service , March 20, 2022
Session 1 – Prayers for our Children’s Ministry
Session 2 - Prayers for Revival
Session 3- Prayers for our Local Mission Partners
Session 4 - Prayers for Peace in Ukraine
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Message: “Success Through Surrender”
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9
When compared with the world’s path toward success, the gospel’s path toward success is upside down. This is especially true in 1 Corinthians 9, where the Apostle Paul teaches us that increased victory in Christ comes through increased surrendering of ourselves. Christian success happens through Christian surrender.
Take Home Question: Are you fully surrendered to Jesus Christ for the sake of the gospel?
Christian success means…
I surrender my rights to secure my witness (1-18).
I surrender my freedom to secure my service (19-23).
I surrender lesser comforts to secure a greater reward (24-27).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Knowledge + Love = Jesus”, Prairie Bible Message, March 6, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1-3
“Knowledge” puffs up, whereas “LOVE” builds up! The example Jesus has set for us is to always put the needs of others before your own, and we are ALL blessed because of it!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Live As You Are Called”, Prairie Bible Message, February 27, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
When we make the conscious decision to make it about Jesus, instead of ourselves, we will find the hope, satisfaction and peace, that we are looking for.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Bought with a Price”, Prairie Bible Message, February 20, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
As Christians we look to the Bible, not the culture, to define a proper view of sexual behavior. Often, disordered sex comes from a disordered view of the body. What does the Bible say about my body?
Take Home Message: God has ultimate authority over my body in order to protect me.
- God’s design for sex: One man, one woman, one marriage, for life
- Sexual Immorality- Any sexual thought or action that is outside of God’s created design.
- Greek word for sexual immorality: Porneia
The Bible says that my body…
- Has sexual boundaries (13).
- Belongs to Jesus Christ (15).
- Is a temple of the Holy Spirit (18-19).
- Exists for God’s glory (20).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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"All Things are Lawful?", Prairie Bible Message, February 13, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:12
Sin destroys our lives. But Jesus has freed us from that destruction, if only we would choose Him!
1 Peter 2:11: Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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"What does the Bible Say About Judging Others?", Prairie Bible Message, February 6, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 Matthew 7:1-2
What does the Bible say about judging others? The answer may surprise you!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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"The Pressure to Perform", Prairie Bible Message, January 30, 2022
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5
While we all have burdens to bear (Galatians 6:5), many of us feel an overwhelming pressure to perform in our daily lives. This often comes from a misunderstanding of God’s standard for us as followers of Jesus Christ, which is faithfulness.
Big Idea: God’s standard for His servants is that they be found faithful.
God’s standard for His servants is…
- Faithful service to Christ (1 Corinthians 4:1-2).
- Faithful stewardship of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 4:1-2).
- Faithful motives (1 Corinthians 4:3-5).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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"Building on a Firm Foundation", Prairie Bible Message, January 23, 2022
What materials are you bringing to the building of the church?
1 Corinthians 3:11-15 For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— 13 each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. 14 If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. Do you not know that you[c] are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? 17 If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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"The Knowledge of God", Prairie Bible Message, January 16, 2022
The truth of God’s message is available to everyone… BUT… in order to understand that truth, you must first trust in Jesus as Lord!
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:13-14
Series: Journey through Corinthians
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Way of the Cross”, Prairie Bible Message, January 9th, 2022
1 Corinthians 1:18 The way of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing. But to those who are being saved it is the very power of God!
What “Crosses” have you been bearing that make you feel hopeless and broken? Give them to Jesus and watch them be transformed!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Called to be Saints”, Prairie Bible Message, January 2nd, 2022
Series: 1 Corinthians
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:1-17
An Introduction to 1 and 2 Corinthians
The Corinthian Church
- Paul stayed for 18 months
- Paul’s lengthiest correspondence among NT churches (29 chapters)
- Understood to be Paul’s most personal correspondence among NT churches (2 Corinthians)
- Primarily Gentile converts (non-Jewish)
The Corinthian Culture Valued…
- Status
- Self-Promotion
- Persuasive public speech
- Powerful personalities
The Corinthian Culture Devalued…
- Tradition
- Truth and Fact
The Church of Jesus Christ is…
- Called to be Holy (v. 1-3).
- Called to be Gifted (v. 4-9).
- Called to be United (v. 10-17).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Church Message: Christmas Eve, 2021
Message: Jesus Christ: King of An Unshakeable Kingdom
Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7
Jesus Christ is…
- Our Humble King (v. 6).
- Our Mighty King (v. 6).
- Our Unshakeable King (v. 7).
Jesus Christ’s work on the cross is finished. His kingdom is unshakeable. The only question is, will you repent of your sins and believe in Him?
Romans 10:9- 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.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Finding God Through Our Tears”, Prairie Bible message, December 19, 2021
Have you experienced a Christmas that failed to live up to the expectations you had for it? Have you wondered why God let’s hardships occur? Listen to today’s message to hear an “unexpected truth” that can be found in the Christmas story.
Scripture: Matthew 2:13-19
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Finding God in Relationship Rather than Religion”, Prairie Bible message, December 12, 2021
Don’t let the trappings and all “the stuff” of Christmas get in the way of your personal relationship with Christ.
Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
Series: An Unexpected Christmas (Finding God in Unexpected Places)
Theme: Finding Christ in Our Disappointments
Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25
Date: December 5, 2021
Prairie Bible Church
Take Home Message: God can use our greatest disappointments for His greatest purposes.
When faced with major disappointment, Joseph the carpenter...
- Resolved to do what is right (18-19).
-
Wrestled with the disappointment (20).
- Psalm 30:5
- Received God’s great purpose (20-25).
Take Home Questions
-
Is God good?
- Exodus 34:6-7
-
Is God in control?
-
Isaiah 45:6-7
-
Will you stay the course?
-
Galatians 6:7-9
“Finding Hope in our Dysfunctions”, Prairie Bible message, November 28, 2021
Scripture: Matthew 1:1-17
Do not let family dysfunctions discourage you or define who you are. Choose to be defined by God’s plan for you! Remember that you have the choice to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and by doing so, you will become part of God’s family.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Truth”, Prairie Bible Message, Nov. 14, 2021
Scripture: Acts 28
Do you believe human wisdom and our current culture often leads us away from the TRUTH of the Bible? In today’s message, Craig wraps up our year long study of the book of Acts by reviewing the TRUTH about Jesus Christ, submitting our lives to God, and what we need to do to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Chosen Vessel”, Prairie Bible Message, Nov. 14, 2021
Acts 27
This chapter may be the most famous and detailed shipwreck in ancient history. In Acts 27, men choose a vessel (the ship) for their purposes, and God chooses a vessel (Paul) for His purposes. Only one of these vessels will make it to Rome. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are also vessels chosen by God for His purposes (1 Peter 2:9). We may not be Paul, but we have much to learn from God’s pattern for Paul’s life and ministry.
- Acts 9:10-16
- 2 Cor 11:24-28
Take Home Message
The world’s power is found in strength, but Christ’s power is found in weakness.
- 2 Cor 12:7-9
Jesus takes his chosen vessels from...
- Hubris to Humility (1-20).
- 2 Cor 1:8-10
- Captive to Captain (21-26).
- -M.R. Dehaan- Before an individual can be saved, he must first learn that he cannot save himself.
- 2 Tim 2:20-21
-
Wreck to Revival (27-44).
- Charles Finney on how to begin a revival- The first step is a deep repentance, a breaking down of heart, a getting down into the dust before God, with deep humility, and a forsaking of sin
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Testifying: Your Responsibility as a Christian” Prairie Bible Message, Nov. 7, 2021
Your job as a Christian is to testify about your belief in Jesus Christ and the difference he has made in your life.
Scripture on Paul’s Testimony: Acts 26: 2-3, Acts 26: 22-23
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Making the Choice to Become Part of God’s Seamless Plan” Prairie Bible Message, October 31, 2021
Becoming part of God’s Plan to offer hope and salvation to the world is a gift from God. What is your choice?
Ephesians 2:8-9: 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.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Messiah: God’s Final Answer to Our Greatest Question, Isaiah 53. Prairie Bible Message, 10/24/2021
The Ultimate Question: How can sinners be reconciled to God?
We are reconciled to God by believing in Jesus Christ’s...
•Startling sacrifice (52:13-15).
•Suffering sacrifice (53:1-3).
•Substitutionary sacrifice (4-6).
•Silent sacrifice (7-9).
•Saving sacrifice (10-12).
God’s Final Answer:
How can sinners be reconciled to God?
•By believing in the costly, gracious sacrifice of Jesus Christ on our behalf.
oRomans 10:9- 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.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Kingdoms and the Prophets” Prairie Bible Message, October 17, 2021
When the world feels like it is in chaos, when it feels like everything is falling apart, when it feels like there is no hope, have faith that God has a plan. Remember that the plan is Jesus.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Exodus and the Promised Land” Prairie Bible Message with testimony, Oct. 10, 2021
There is always HOPE, no matter what the circumstance of life, because of God’s PROMISES!
Remember that God’s got this! His promises SHALL be fulfilled!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Patriarchs: Lasting Faith” Prairie Bible Message, Oct. 3, 2021
Scripture: Hebrews 11:13-16
True faith is lasting faith.
We demonstrate lasting faith by…
- Acknowledging that we don’t belong (v13).
- Abandoning our old ways (v14-15).
- Adopting an eternal perspective (v16).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Beginning” Prairie Bible Message, 9/26/21
When you think of God, what is the first thought that comes into your mind? Your answer frames how you think about God and the Bible. God is inviting you to believe that He is “head-over heels” in love with you! How will you respond to that invitation?!
Genesis 3:8-9 And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have you ever had trouble making heads or tails out of the Bible? Prairie Bible Message, 9/19/21
Join our new sermon series over the next six weeks to learn how the Bible fits together seamlessly.
John 1:1,14 In the beginning was the WORD. The WORD was with God. And the WORD was God. And the WORD became flesh and dwelt among us.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Acts 25, “On Trial for our Testimony”, Prairie Bible Message, September 12, 2021
Do not be afraid to say Jesus Is Alive! Do not focus your life on worldly circumstances, but to look up to HIM and acknowledge that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Church Prayer Service, September 5, 2021
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Mud-Slinging” Prairie Bible Message, August 29, 2021
If you are feeling discouraged and hopeless in your current circumstance, give your circumstance to Jesus! Trust in him and believe in his providential will.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Our Hope in Hardship. Prairie Bible Message, August 22nd, 2021
If you are in a time of hardship, remember: Trust, Obey and Pray and wait for the deliverance of the Lord. Jesus provides for His servants at their weakest moments, and He often does this through providence.
Though we become weary, the Lord doesn’t (Is 40:28).
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Are you willing to offer the individual threads of your life to Jesus? Prairie Bible Message, August 15th, 2021
Isn’t it about time to let Jesus be your Lord?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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When you pray, do you pray for what you want, or do you pray for God’s will to be done? Prairie Bible Message, August 8th, 2021
“How do you discern God’s will in your life?”
- Pray
- Seek the scriptures
- Seek godly counsel
- Try walking through the door: If it opens, walk through. If it’s closed, trust that as direction from God.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Are You Living for Jesus Day by Day?”, Prairie Bible Message, July 25, 2021
Joshua 24:15 But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Are you a “Consumer Christian” or a “Living Christian?”, Prairie Bible Message, July 18, 2021
Ultimately, we all need to take accountability for our own discipleship
Message today from Acts: Chapter 20
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Looking Beyond the Hype”, Prairie Bible Message, July 11, 2021
How do you know if you are a Christian?
Message today from Acts: Chapter 19
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Prairie Bible Prayer Service, July 4th, 2021
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Loyalties”, Prairie Bible Message, June 27, 2021
Remember that you should always keep your eyes fixed on Jesus
Message today from Acts: Chapter 18
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Finding Common Ground”, Prairie Bible Message, June 20, 2021
Things we can do to be prepared to be used by the Holy Spirit:
- Ask God to use you to share Jesus with the world
- Care enough about people to find common ground with them
Message today from Acts: Chapter 17
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Simple. Authentic. Jesus”, Prairie Bible Message, June 13, 2021
Acts 15:11- “We believe that it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that we are saved, just as we are!”
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“Bull-headed for Christ!”, Prairie Bible Message, June 6, 2021
Often Christians today are expected to accept the fact that times have changed and that our beliefs are passé. It’s time for us to stop being bullied and start being bull-headed enough to stand up for what the Bible teaches us!
Message today from Acts: Chapter 14
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Some People Will Only Listen To YOU”, Prairie Bible Message, May 30, 2021
Do you remember the people in your life who introduced you to Jesus?
There are people in this world that will never listen to the message of Jesus, unless they hear it from you!
Message today from Acts: Chapter 13
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“It Takes All of Us”, Prairie Bible Baptism Service, May 23, 2021
What is necessary for equipping new teens for a fully devoted life in Christ?
- God instigates
- The family tills the soil
- The church plants the seeds
Message today from Acts: Chapter 16
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“What is Your Purpose?”, Prairie Bible Message, May 16, 2021
Does God play favorites? Is life fair? God says everything has a purpose. The ultimate purpose is to bring salvation to the world.
Message today from Acts: Chapter 12
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“What Do You Really Want? Do You Want Your Way or God’s Way?”, Prairie Bible Message, May 9, 2021
Are you willing to listen to God’s way when it is different than what you want to do?
Message today from Acts: Chapter 11
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Does God Ever Change His Mind?”, Prairie Bible Message, May 2, 2021
Do you feel we are in a cultural and world upheaval and that everything has changed? Remember that the Bible says that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow – God does not change! God’s truth and plan remains the same for us. God’s plan is to save you.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Which Goads From God Have You Been Kicking At?”, Prairie Bible Message, April 25, 2021
Jesus loves us enough to make our own choices. But He also loves us enough to show us a better way… His way! Which will you choose?!
Acts 9:3-5 (NKJV) As he journeyed, he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have we as the church, or we as individuals chosen to be too nice at the expense of the truth? As Christians, we are called to be grace filled, and truthful.
Acts 8:20-22And Peter replied; “May your money perish with you because you thought you could buy this gift from God. You have neither part or portion in this matter because your heart is not right. Repent, therefore, that God might forgive you!”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Have you ever been in a situation where you asked: “Why would God allow this to happen?”, Prairie Bible Message, April 11, 2021
The murder of Stephen that is described in Acts 7 is a difficult story to understand. Why did God allow him to be stoned for his teachings about Jesus? Though God does not cause everything that happens in our lives, He can USE them! He can give purpose to our pain if only we give it to Him and run into His arms for our peace.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The King’s Final Move”, Prairie Bible Easter Message, April 4, 2021
Jesus WINS! And we do too… IF… we would surrender to Him not only as our Savior but as the Lord of our Life!
Matthew 28:2-6 Behold there was a great earthquake that rolled away the stone from the tomb, and an angel of the Lord descended from heaven. His continence was like lightning and his clothing white as snow. The guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said; Do not be afraid, for I know you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here. He is RISEN!!!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Playing the game with Greatness and with Grace”, Prairie Bible Message, March 28th, 2021
Do you feel you sometimes live according to the world’s rules, and not according to God’s rules? Following God’s rules is what it means to play the game with Greatness and Grace.
Luke 19:38- “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Calling or Comfort”, Prairie Bible Message, March 21st, 2021
Have you listened to God’s calling to you? Is anything holding you back from that calling?
Mark 10:17-22: And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Resigning as Master of the Board”, Prairie Bible Service, March 14th, 2021
Have you turned your life over to the care of God? Remember that you must invite Jesus into your heart to be not just your Savior… but your Lord!
Deuteronomy 8:17 You will be tempted to believe that that it was your power
and might that has brought about this good fortune and wealth!”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Keeping Score Where It Really Counts”, Prairie Bible Message, March 7th, 2021
What are you taking with you into eternity?
1 Timothy: 6:10-11 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs, But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“When it all goes back in the Box”, Prairie Bible Message, February 28, 2021
Are you open to the relationship that God wants to have with you?
Luke 12:21 “He who lays up treasure for himself, is not rich towards God.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Being a simple and authentic representation of Jesus Love to the World”, Prairie Bible Message, February 21, 2021
The bible teaches us that to be a simple, authentic representation of Jesus' love to the world we must;
1) Worship God
2) Grow as disciples of Christ and call others to follow Jesus
3) Serve God by serving the world.
“God doesn’t “call” the “equipped” … He “equips” the “called”!, Prairie Bible Message, February 14, 2021
Acts 6:8- “God gave Stephen the power to work great miracles and wonders among the people.”
Notice… it was GOD who chose how Stephen would serve… NOT Stephen! What is God calling you to do? Remember, your responsibility is to simply LOVE Jesus, and be willing to serve when God calls!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Integrity!”,Prairie Bible Message, February 7, 2021
God offers you his grace, but he doesn’t make you take it. When you choose not to repent, you are basically saying you don’t need the grace of God. If you choose to live without integrity and do not accept Christ’s grace, you will live with the consequences.
Acts 5:1-3 (CEV)Ananias and his wife Sapphira also sold a piece of property. But they agreed to cheat and keep some of the money for themselves. So, when Ananias took the rest of the money to the apostles, Peter said, “Why has Satan made you keep back some of the money from the sale of the property? Why have you lied to the Holy Spirit?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Pray for Boldness!”,Prairie Bible Message, January 31, 2021
Do you have the boldness to be who and what the Holy Spirit is asking you to be? Pray for boldness, and then let God do the rest.
Acts 4:18-20 So, they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Nothing is “ordinary” anymore!”,Prairie Bible Message, January 24, 2021
Once you have accepted Jesus, nothing is every ordinary again! Expect God to do “extraordinary” things through you!
Acts 3:1 One day Peter and John went up to the Temple to pray. It was about 3:00pm in the afternoon. Acts 3:11-12 While the man stood holding Peter and John, the people were astonished and came running to the place called Solomon’s Colonnade. When Peter saw this he said to them; “Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power and godliness we made this man walk?!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The birth of God’s plan, The Church!”. Prairie Bible Message, January 17, 2021
Are you thriving, or only surviving? We are called to be the church to the world. Pray that the Holy Spirit works through you to bring hope and salvation to others.
Acts 2:1-4 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“It’s not that Complicated”. Prairie Bible Message, January 10, 2021
As human beings, we tend to make things more complicated than they actually are. God has chosen YOU to bring Jesus to the world! Don’t know where to begin? “Wait” upon the Lord, and HE will empower you! And don’t stop seeking Him till He does!
Acts 1: Verse 4- 5, 8 “Do not leave Jerusalem, but WAIT for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Verse 8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Prayer Service, January 3, 2021
Prayer Focus:
- Missions
- Prayer & Youth
- New Year & Church Visioning
- Prayers for Healing
- Revival
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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"Connect the Dots", Prairie Bible Message, 12/27/2020
John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Christmas curveballs: What else could go wrong – no room at the inn?”, Prairie Bible Message, December 20, 2020
How do you react to curveballs – Grumbling or Gratitude? Your response can depend on whether you choose to fix your eyes on Jesus rather than your circumstance, and to remember to believe that “God’s got this”
Luke 2:6-7 “While they were there in Bethlehem it came time for Mary’s baby to be born. She gave birth to her son. Wrapped him in cloth, and laid Him in a manger, for there was no room for them in the Inn.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Dealing with the Curveballs in Your Life”, Prairie Bible Message, December 13, 2020
If you’ve been struggling to deal with the curveballs in your life… the place to begin, if you haven’t already done so, is to give your life to Christ! Doing so does not mean that He’ll take away the hard times. But it does mean that they have a purpose and that He will walk through them with you!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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How Do YOU Respond to Curveballs That Are Thrown At You?, Prairie Bible Message, December 6, 2020
What can we learn from the Christmas story about finding Hope, when life throws us curveballs?
Luke 1:31 nd behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus.Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What does the Bible say about the Christmas Grinch?, Prairie Bible Message, November 29,2020
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Are you feeling soul sick?”, Prairie Bible Message, November 22, 2020
It is time to have hope for the future again. Escape the cultural toxins that are affecting you. Accept the invitation from Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 “but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Septic Thoughts”, Prairie Bible Message, November 15, 2020
Part 5 in our Soul Detox series about how our thoughts can impact our relationship with Christ, and what we need to do to win the battles against evil.
2 Corinthians 10:4-5: The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Radioactive Relationships”, Prairie Bible Message, November 8, 2020
Galatians 5: 14-15 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Power of Fear”, Prairie Bible Message, November 1, 2020
God doesn’t promise that we won’t go through storms. What he promises is purpose in the midst of storms. Remember that you have a choice about whether you will be afraid. Don’t you believe that God is in control?
Remember that you have a choice about whether you will be afraid.
Mathew 8: 23-27 Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“The Power of Words”, Prairie Bible Message, October 25, 2020
Proverbs 15:4 “A tongue that brings healing is like a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”
Words are powerful! They have the power to destroy and the power to heal. They have the power to express love, as well as spread evil. Yet we are not powerless against them!
We have the power to choose how we give and how we receive words.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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What did Jesus mean when he said “You are the salt of the Earth”? Prairie Bible Message, October 18, 2020
2020 has been filled with toxins that threaten to steal our hope and our testimony. Watch to learn how Christ teaches us to rid ourselves of the earth’s toxins and become the “salt of the earth”.
Matthew 5:13 “You are the salt of the earth. But do you not know that when salt loses its flavor, it is cast out and trampled under the feet of men?”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Three Biblical Mandates: “Worship God, Discipleship, Serve God by Serving Others“, Prairie Bible Service, October 11, 2020
Interview with Hope CDA https://hopecdacr.org/
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Patience, Grace and Unity”
Would you generally describe yourself as patient and gracious? If so, with all that we’ve been through during 2020, how’s that been working out for you?!
Ephesians 4:2-3: - “B completely humble, gentle, and patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep unity in the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Remember, it’s OK to disagree, but be gracious and patient with one another. And don’t let any of your disagreements tear at the bond you have in Jesus!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Behold, today WE stand at a cross-road! Which path will we choose?, Prairie Bible Message, 9/27/2020
Will we forget the path that led us to where we are today? A simple and authentic path that has always led us to Jesus?
- A path that has led us to pray first, and to always keep mission and ministry front and center?
- A path that leads people to believe the church is NOT a building, but the people?
- A path that leads us to honor God, rather than accommodate the world?
Jeremiah 6:16 “Behold, you stand at a cross-road. Choose the ancient path. Choose the way of righteousness. But you said; no. We will choose our own way.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Choosing to Live Without Fear”, Prairie Bible Message, 9/20/20
Remember that Perfect Love, which is Jesus, casts out all Fear.
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. For perfect love casts out all fear. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Choosing to Worship Through the Storm” Prairie Bible Message, 9/13/20
How will you choose to deal with the storms in your Life?
Revelation 15:3 “Sing the song of Moses, the song of the Lamb: Great and marvelous are Your ways, O God. Just and true are Your precepts, great God of the saints.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Finding Peace in the Storm” Prairie Bible Message, 9/5/20
Matthew 6:25 – 26 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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“Fix Your Mind on Jesus, and You Shall Have Perfect Peace” Prairie Bible Message, 8/30/2020.
Isaiah 26:3 You, O God, will keep those in perfect peace who fix their minds upon you. For in so doing, they prove that they trust in You
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Service, 8/23/2020. Message “Finding Peace in Turbulent Times”
John 16:33 “I’m telling you this so that you might find “peace”. For in the world you will find tribulation. But take heart, for I have over-come the world!”
People have been looking for “peace”, forever. But we’ve been seeking it in the wrong place, most of the time. Peace… lasting peace, will never been found our circumstances. It will only be found in Jesus!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, 8/23/2020. Message “Finding Peace in Turbulent Times”
John 16:33 “I’m telling you this so that you might find “peace”. For in the world you will find tribulation. But take heart, for I have over-come the world!”
People have been looking for “peace”, forever. But we’ve been seeking it in the wrong place, most of the time. Peace… lasting peace, will never been found our circumstances. It will only be found in Jesus!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Service, 8/2/2020. Message “Myth #4: Bad Things Don’t Happen to Good People”
Prairie Bible Message, 8/2/2020. Message “Myth #4: Bad Things Don’t Happen to Good People”
Why doesn’t God keep bad things from happening in the world? Listen to the message to hear what the Bible has to say on this difficult area.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, 7/26/2020. Message “Myth #3: Money will bring you happiness”
Hebrews 13:5 Stay free from the love of money, and be content with what you have. For God will never leave you, nor forsake you.
Money will not bring security or happiness. It is here one moment and gone the next. The only secure thing in the universe is Jesus!
Keep your priorities straight --- Love Jesus most of all, and you’ll be able to enjoy the other blessings of life a lot more!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, 7/19/2020. Message “Grow In Your Weakness”
Have you been making yourself miserable trying to be something that you’re not? God has created you the person that you are for a reason! So embrace it, and lets work together for Christ! Our various strengths and weaknesses were designed by God so they might work together to accomplish his goals.
1 Cor. 12:17- 18If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact, God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, 7/12/2020. Bible Myth #3 “God won’t give us more than we can handle”
It is very understandable that people would want to believe that God will not give us more than we can handle. But that’s NOT what God promises. What DOES God promise?
Philippians 4:13 - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” In other words, you must give your problems to Jesus and he has promised to walk with you through your problems.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Service, 7/5/2020. Bible Myth #2 “God helps those who help themselves”
So, if work’s righteousness is NOT what we as Christians are called to believe in, what should we believe? Well, the answer to that question can be found in today’s bible verse:
Philippians 4:13“I can do ALL things THROUGH Christ, who strengthens me!”Let God be in control… He’s NOT your helper. He’s your LORD!”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, June 28, 2020. ““Worship as a Lifestyle”
“Worship” is not something you do one hour a week. It should be a lifestyle! Religion is useless if you’re not “living” what you say you believe!
Micah 6:8“For the Lord has shown me what is good; To live justly. To love mercy. And to walk humbly before our God.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, June 21, 2020. ““Hope” draws us into Worship”
Psalm 121:1-2: I lift my eyes unto the hills. From where does my help come from? Our help comes from the Lord. Maker of heaven and earth!
We are NOT helpless with regards to the circumstances of today. For our help is in God! Maker of heaven and earth!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Message, June 14, 2020. “The How and Why of Worship”
God doesn’t care one little bit about the “style” of worship. Get the “how’s” and the “why’s” of worship right - and your relationship with God will be built on a firm and healthy foundation!
Psalm 100 Shout to the Lord, all the earth, and come into His presence with joyful singing. For the Lord, He is God. He is the one that created us. Not we ourselves. We are His people, the sheep of his pasture. Bless His holy name! Come into His gates with joyful singing, and into His courts with praise. For the Lord, He is good. His love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Drive-in Service, May 31st, 2020. Sermon series on End Times. “Obey the Government”?
Romans 13:1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Drive-in Message, May 31st, 2020. Sermon series on End Times. “Obey the Government”?
Romans 13:1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Service, May 24th, 2020. Study on End Times - “He Will Come Like a Thief in the Night”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Sermon, May 17th, 2020. The Second Coming of Christ - "Why He Tarries"
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Service, May 3, 2020. The second coming of Christ
We need to remember, that no matter how chaotic things get, God is in control.
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Prairie Bible Service, April 26, 2020. Study of "End Times"
Mark 13:32-33 But exactly when that day of hour is, nobody knows. Not the angels. Not even me, Jesus said. Only the Father knows. So be on your guard. Be prepared. For you do not know when that time will come.
How can we “prepare”:
Read your Bibles! What does God’s word say about the time and the season of Christ’s return?
Share your faith! Jesus said, He will not return until the gospel has been shared with all nations.
Remember… God’s in control, and the outcome has already been determined.
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Prairie Bible Church Message - Perspectives, April 19, 2020
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Prairie Bible Church - Midweek Update April 1, 2020
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Barbarian Way
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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The Fight of Your Life
Are you struggling? Are you afraid? Come to Jesus and truly live and be free. Don’t let Satan win the battle for your soul. Put on the armor of God.
Ephesians 6:10–17: Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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The Barbarian Invasion
Often, the needs of the “Institutional” Church, as legitimate as they are, can be detrimental to our relationship with Jesus. This can cause us to lose our “First Love”! The path to finding our way back… is “The Barbarian Way”!
2 Timothy 1:6-8:Stir up the gift that was given through the laying on of hands. For God has not given you a spirit of timidity, but one of strength, love and self-control. Therefore, do not be ashamed to stand up for the Lord or for me, but take on your share of suffering for the Gospel in the power of God!
Is God calling you to put all the “stuff” of the world behind you? To focus on your relationship with Jesus and share the good news with others? This is the true Barbarian Invasion.
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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What Is The Meaning of “Church”
A church can “do” all the right things… BUT… When they forget “why” they do them, they will soon forget their “first love”!
Revelations 2:4-5 “Never the less, I have this against you; that you have lost your “first love”. Remember then from where you have fallen. Repent, and again do those first works.”
What is our “first love”?
- To LOVE Jesus
- To help others LOVE Jesus
- And to LOVE others, as Jesus LOVES us!
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Jesus Can’t Be Your Savior Without Being Your Lord
Today’s Message: Lordship leads to renewed strength.
Isaiah 40:31 “Those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They will mount up on wings, like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”
What does it mean to “wait” upon the Lord? It means to “wait” for God to give us our marching orders… to do what God wants us to do!
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Does God Speak to You? Are You Listening?
Isaiah 30:21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right or you turn to the left.In other words, Isaiah was saying: God is not silent. He has been there all along speaking to you. The question is; Are you listening??
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Letting Go
As a Christian, what you have responsibility over is choosing to be a simple, authentic, reflection of Jesus in everything you do. Do that, and leave the rest up to God.
Zechariah 4:6 “For it is not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, sayeth the Lord.”
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Do I Really Want What God Wants?
The more time you spend in relationship with God, the more YOUR desires will become like God’s desires!
Psalm 37:4 “Delight in the Lord, and He shall give you the desire of your heart.”
Serving Jesus as Lord leads to “transformation”!
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Lordship Requires a Choice
We must choose what or whom we will serve every day. If we don’t choose, we will end up serving whatever is the loudest or most immediate in our lives. Choose wisely!
Joshua 24:15 “Decide this day whom you will serve. Whether it be the God of your fore-fathers, who lived beyond the river. Or the god of the Amorites, in whose land we live today. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!”
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Unpacking the Meaning of “Lord”
What’s the difference between Jesus as your Savior and Jesus as your Lord? Listen to today’s message to hear about how “Lordship” = “Obedience” and the rewards that come with that choice.
Joshua 14:9“Moses himself proclaimed, because of your obedience, wherever your feet have trod, this shall be an inheritance to you and your children, because you have whole-heartedly sought after the Lord.”
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Me and My Big Mouth
Choose to use your words for good. It will help not only you, but also those around you. Remember the 4 P’s to help control what you say; Pause, Plan, Positive, Praise.
James 3:2, 5-6 Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. Among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire.
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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The Second Coming of Christ
Knowing that indeed Christ will one day return, it is our responsibility to be about the business of the Gospel! We need to get out into the world and share Jesus!
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Bringing the Light of Christ into the World
Simple. Authentic. Jesus.
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Bringing the Light of Christ into the World
Simple, Authentic, Jesus
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Receive this Gift from God, the Gift of Hope
Jesus, the hope of the world
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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There is Hope, There is Love, and It’s for You
There is nothing you need to do to earn Jesus love, because He loves you already! Unconditionally!!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Dysfunctional Family?
Listen to how God used a dysfunctional family as part of the DNA to bring about the miracle of Christmas. The promise of Christmas is that no matter what our “dysfunction” … there is always hope that can be found in Christ!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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The DNA of Christmas
Most people are shocked to hear the stories of the people who God used to bring Christmas into existence. Listen to hear about a coward who God used as part of his plan. It is an amazing story of God’s unconditional love.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Who are the people in your life that you know need a relationship with Jesus?
Take action today! Write their names down and commit to praying for them every day. And be available if the Holy Spirit wants to use you.
Acts 1:8“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Matthew 28:18-20: Go out into all the world and make disciples. Baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Teaching them all that I have commanded. And lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Do You Sometimes Wonder Whether It Is Worth It?
Is it worth it to try to live a moral and ethical life when it seems that many of the people “getting ahead in life” aren’t living that way?
There will be times when it feels like you are the only one standing up for what is good and right. Don’t give up, because eventually you will be rewarded by God!
Galatians 6:9- “Do not weary in doing good. For in due season you shall receive your reward.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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The Power of Prayer in Healing
Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone happy? He should sing songs of thanks to God. Is anyone among you sick? He should send for the church leaders and they should pray for him. They should pour oil on him in the name of the Lord. The prayer given in faith will heal the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Tell your sins to each other. And pray for each other so you may be healed. The prayer from the heart of a man right with God has much power. James 5:13-16
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Lord, Use Me to Make A Difference
The last key to unlocking the power of prayer is to pray “Jesus I’m Available, I’m Listening, Use Me However You Wish”.
Pray – Listen - Act
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Is The Road You’re On Taking You Where You Are Called To Go?
It all starts by allowing things in your life to become more important than Jesus! Anything that you invest more interest and energy in than your relationship with Christ, has the potential to be an “idol”.
One of the keys to unlocking the power of prayer in your life, is identifying… and then tearing down, the idols in your life. Only then can we truly experience a life changing relationship with Christ, and the power of prayer!
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Pray for Boldness, Take a Risk, Give Yourself to God
Acts 4:29-31 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Pray for Boldness, Take a Risk, Give Yourself to God
Acts 4:29-31 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
What’s the Best Way to Establish a Relationship with Christ? Prayer!
God Values Our Prayers. Make sure the “Good” things in life don’t become a distraction from God’s “Best” things.
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Why Isn’t God Answering My Prayer?
Have you ever felt disillusioned because of the troubles of life, and wondered: Where is God?
“Trouble” can be a catalyst, the thing that prompts us to remember our privilege to call out to Jesus in prayer!
Psalm 50:15Cry out to God in times of trouble and THEN God will deliver you, and you shall glorify Him.
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Breaking Point
What does it mean to be “all in” for God? Ultimately, it simply means we must be “broken” of our selfishness, pride and arrogance... Only then can we truly seek Him with all our heart and soul.
Deuteronomy 4:29 “Seek the Lord and He will be found… IF… you seek Him with all your heart and soul!”
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Breaking Point
What does it mean to be “all in” for God? Ultimately, it simply means we must be “broken” of our selfishness, pride and arrogance... Only then can we truly seek Him with all our heart and soul.
Deuteronomy 4:29“Seek the Lord and He will be found… IF… you seek Him with all your heart and soul!”
www.prairiebible.org
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Survive or Thrive
The Power of Prayer can make the difference between surviving or thriving – what do you believe God’s plan is for you?
1 Chronicles 7:14 “ If my people, who call upon my name, would humble themselves, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear their prayers, heal their land, and forgive their sins.”
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
God Knows Exactly What We Need
Ephesians 3:20 And now unto to Him who is able to do far more than I can ask or imagine… according to His power at work within us…
The next time you find yourself in a situation where you can’t imagine things ever being “ok” ever again… Remember and believe that God can! You just have to trust Him!
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
The Gifts That Keep On Giving
Spiritual Gifts are given to each one of us. … they are gifts with a “purpose”!
In other words, these gifts are NOT for you! They were given to you to be used for the sake of the Gospel
It’s not JUST your spiritual gifts that God wants to use for the Gospel, however. God wants to use ALL that makes you, YOU!
- Your spiritual gifts
- Your skills
- Your passions/interests
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Is Believing Enough To Be A Christian?
Matthew 7:21-23 identifies not only the need for “Belief” and “Good Works”, as evidence of a Christian life, but also to have a Relationship with Jesus.
The good news is, Jesus has already determined that He wants to have a relationship with you!. All that’s left to decide, is whether you want one with Him!
Matthew 7:21-23 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and, in your name, perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Is Believing Enough To Be A Christian?
Matthew 7:21-23 identifies not only the need for “Belief” and “Good Works”, as evidence of a Christian life, but also to have a Relationship with Jesus.
The good news is, Jesus has already determined that He wants to have a relationship with you!. All that’s left to decide, is whether you want one with Him!
Matthew 7:21-23 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and, in your name, perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Christian Unity
What does Jesus teach about addressing conflict and differences of opinion? In John 17:23 Jesus prays “I in You, and they in Me. Bring them together with such complete unity that the world might know that you have sent Me. And that You love them, just as You have loved Me.”
The Christian response to conflict is to treat one another with love, always!
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Do You Believe God Has a Purpose For Your Life?
You have been created by God with your particular gifts, graces and calling for a purpose. How do we live into our purpose?
1 Timothy 1:6-7: “Take hold of the gift that is within you, that was given through the laying on of hands. For God has not given you a spirit of timidity (insecurity). But one of strength, power, and self-discipline.”
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Everyone Has Something to Offer - What Are You Doing With What God Has Given You?
Think of your resources and talents as given to you for GOD'S purposes, not your OWN.
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Why Did God Instruct Us To “Remember The Sabbath Day, To Keep It Holy”
Because Jesus loves us and he knows It is for our OWN good – it is a way for us to ensure we are taking time for the important things in life.
Mark 2:27- “The Sabbath was made for man… NOT… man for the Sabbath!”
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God Doesn’t Need Your Money, He Wants Your Heart
As soon as he has your heart, the rest falls into place.
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
Jesus Changed My Life
Remember, nothing is more important than LOVE, especially the love you have for Jesus!
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
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Simple. Authentic. Jesus
The “Why” Behind Righteousness, Peace, and Joy
How do you find Peace and Joy in the middle of Chaos?
Romans 14:17- For the Kingdom of God is not about what you eat or what you drink, but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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True Freedom: God’s Way
1. Become a slave of Christ
2. Use your freedom to serve others
3. Stay connected to Jesus in all things
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Galatians 5:13-14 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love be servants of one another. 14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Simple. Authentic. Jesus
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Two Things We Need To Know About “God” and “change”
First, remember you are not powerless in the face of change – you always have a choice. Second, there is one thing in life that NEVER changes… Jesus!
Romans 12:1-3 I beg you to give your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. Do not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. By this you will know the Will of God. The good, perfect and pleasing Will of God.
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What Should Your Life Look Like As A Christian?
Each of us has a choice. As Christians, it is our responsibility to reflect Jesus to the world.
Colossians 3:12-13 And now, as the very Saints of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience… bearing with one another in love.
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Know that God is always with you. Nothing can ever separate us from the love of God
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What Is The Church?
The Church isn’t a place or building, the Church is YOU! Those who have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior!
May we never forget that the Church is not a building….It’s US! Those that have been “called-out” to share the truth and love of Jesus with the world!
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Do You Need to be Baptized to be Saved?
The most important thing is this: That you accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior! Baptism then becomes a recognition and celebration of what God is doing in your life.
Join us at the barn for Celebration Sunday on June 9th. Special worship service, baptisms, potluck, kids games, great fellowship! Service starts at 10:00 at the barn, 6004 76th Ave, Fairfax
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Communion is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. It is an action that Christians can take to recognize and celebrate what God is doing in their lives.
Luke 22:19-20Jesus took bread, blessed it and broke it saying: “This is my body broken for you”. In the same way, after the meal He took the cup and said: “This is my blood poured out for you.”
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What Do You Believe About the Bible?
1 Timothy 3:16-17 For all scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for the teaching of doctrine, correction, reproof, and instruction in righteousness. That all godly people might be equipped to do good works.
We are called to study, understand, and apply the Bible to our lives.
It is by “faith” that we choose to believe that the entire Bible is God’s infallible Word. The question is, what do you choose to believe?!
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How Is The Holy Spirit Active In Your Life?
- The Holy Spirit brings “conviction” (John 16:7ff)
- The Holy Spirit helps us to “pray” (Romans 8:26)
- The Holy Spirit brings “enlightenment” (1 Corinthians 2:14)
- The Holy Spirit “gifts” us to serve. (1 Corinthians 12:1-11)
What Does the Bible Say About Jesus?
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
John 3:16-18 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save it. So, whoever believes in Him is not condemned. But whoever does not believe condemns themselves!
Join us for services on Sunday mornings at 9:30am at Prairie Hill Elementary School
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Understanding the Trinity and the relation between the “Creator” and the “creation”
Revelation 4:10-11- You are worthy O God, to receive glory, honor and power. For you created all things! By your will, all they were created.
Join us for services on Sunday mornings at 9:30am at Prairie Hill Elementary School
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Have you connected the “Dots” of the Easter story to Christ’s Great Commission? Doing this reveals the full picture of God’s story.
Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus said, “Go out into all the world and make disciples. Baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Teaching them all that I have commanded. And remember, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age”!
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Who are the people in your life that you can’t imagine spending eternity without?
Sometimes our “Calling” as Christians is more important than our “Comfort”. What is that “something” you can do that might cause them to consider Jesus, too?
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Jesus’ death on the cross created a bridge for anyone who would choose to “cross-over” from death to life. Have you chosen to cross-over?
John 5:24- “Whoever hears my words and believes in Him who sent me, has eternal life and will not be judged. But has “crossed over” from death to life.”
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Jesus says “I Love you just the way you are”.
All you have to do is accept the Love he is offering you.
When we share with people the story of the difference Jesus has made in our lives, it could be the greatest gift they will ever receive
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One of the most fundamental jobs a Christian has is to share the gospel of Jesus with others. Recognize that when God prompts you to “walk across the room” to reach out to others, He wants “YOU” to show up. Trust that he will give you the right words.
Acts 11:22-24 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
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It is the calling of every Christian to invite others into a relationship with Christ. But to truly be effective in that “call”, WE must first be willing to invest in a relationship with them as well!
Luke 5:4-6 “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
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Romans 5:8 “Christ died for us while we were yet sinners.”
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Choose to be Joyful. Choose to be Humble. Choose to Pray
Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I say rejoice! Live your life with humility, for the day of the Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but instead pray about everything. And when you do, you will experience a joy and peace beyond all human understanding.
Where is your Faith? Do you put it in Jesus in the middle of life’s storms?
Scripture: Luke 8:23-25 And as they sailed he fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water and were in danger. And they went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm. He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and they marveled, saying to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?”
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Have you thought how your actions may be influencing someone else? Would they be able to tell you are a Christian?
As Christians, our behavior should always be guided by one thing, helping bring people into relationship with Christ!
1 Corinthians 8:9“Be careful what you do with your freedom, lest you cause a weaker brother to stumble.”
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Galatians 5:22-23 “And the Fruits of the Spirit are: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
We invite you to join us @9:30 am on Sunday morning at Prairie Hill Elementary as we continue our series on learning to be a follower of Christ. Everyone is welcome!
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Because Jesus loves you,he will never give up on you! He’ll never stop knocking on your door, hoping that you invite Him in. He will do whatever is necessary to get your attention!
Revelation 3:20- “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. They that open the door to me, I will come in and sup with them, and they with me.”
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Do you sometimes feel that “spiritually” you aren't feeling quite right? Jesus, as the great physician, is here to help!
Revelation 3:15-16: “I know that you are neither hot nor cold. But I wish that you were one or the other. But, because you are neither hot nor cold but luke-warm, I will spit you out of my mouth.”
Matthew 22:37-39“Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, mind and spirit. This is the first and greatest commandment. But the second is like it; to love your neighbor as you love yourself. Upon these two commandments are built ALL the laws and the prophets!
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Are you burdened by things you have done? Do you believe you need to “clean up” for Jesus. Listen to learn what Jesus asks of us.
Psalm 51:10 - “Create in me a clean heart, O Lord. And renew a right spirit within me.”
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Discipleship = growing as “followers” of Christ. What are you doing to grow your faith as a follower of Christ?
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What is your New Year's resolution for 2019? What if your resolution was that everytime you were tempted to worry, you made the choice to pray instead?
Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything, but instead, pray about everything, and you shall experience a peace and joy beyond all human understanding.”
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Message from Prairie Bible Church on Christmas Eve.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Finding Peace during the holidays - Triumphing over troublesome relationships
1 Peter 3:9 - Do not repay evil with evil, but instead a blessing, which is our holy calling. Knowing that by doing so you shall be blessed, as well.
Remember that our happiness and peace does not come from what we have… but from whose we are… Jesus!
Hebrews 13:5: Do not be one who covets things, but be content with what you have. For God has said; never will I leave you and never will I forsake you.
Are you struggling this holiday season with unrealized expectations and disappointment? Try being a blessing to someone else and see what happens!
Matthew 28:19-20: And Jesus said; "Go out into all the world and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them all that I have commanded. And remember, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age!"
One of the things that often steals the “peace” of the holiday season is our crazy schedules. Be careful this holiday season, lest you find yourself so busy that you forget what the season is really all about!
Exodus 18:17-19: “The thing you are doing is not good. Both you and the people who are with you will surely wear yourselves out!” Listen to me and I will give you counsel and God will stand with you.”
We invite you to join us on Sunday mornings at 9:30 at Prairie Hill Elementary to hear how to "Find Peace during the Holidays
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Are you struggling to identify things for which you are thankful?
If so, it’s probably because you’re looking in the wrong place! Look to Jesus, for it is from Him that all blessings flow!
Colossians 2:7 “Be firmly rooted and grounded in the faith you have been taught, and you shall experience thanksgiving!”
We invite you to join our service on Sunday mornings at 9:30. We meet at Prairie Hill Elementary School in Cedar Rapids, IA
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Proverbs 4:23- Guard your heart for from it flows the issues of life.In other words, be careful of what and who you fill your life with and how you spend your time, because what you fill your life with has a powerful influence on your heart!
As Christians we should intentionally stand guard, or consider what we allow into our lives on a regular basis, knowing that the people and things we fill our lives with, impact our hearts!
We invite you to join our service on Sunday mornings at 9:30. We meet at Prairie Hill Elementary School in Cedar Rapids, IA
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Growing as a Disciple of Christ is not a “destination”, but a “journey”. The purpose of today’s message is not to condemn you for a lack of self-control, but to help you on your journey to become more like Jesus!
1st Corinthians 10:13a- “No temptation has taken you but that which is common to man”. “So take heart, for God is faithful. He will not allow you to be tempted beyond that which you can handle. For when you are tempted, He’ll give you the power to stand up against it.”
Series: Marks of DiscipleshipJoin us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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Are you sick and tired of all the political ads? Listen to today's message to hear about integrity and living your life with Grace & Truth.
Today's Bible verse: James 5:12- Do not swear by heaven or by earth, or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be “yes” and your “no” be “no”.
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA. www.Prairiebible.org
Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”o In other words, everyone needs someone in their life:
- Who is brave enough…
- Who knows them well enough…
- And who loves them enough…
· To speak the TRUTH into their lives!
Who is that person for YOU???Series: Discipleship Toolbox
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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Is it time for a paradigm shift in children's ministry?
It is the goal of Prairie Bible Church to help everyone, including our children to:
o Worship God
o Grow as Disciples
o Serve God by serving the world
Proverbs 22:6- Raise up a child in the way they should go, and when they get old they’ll not depart from it.Series: Discipleship Toolbox
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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Many of us have a misunderstanding of the Purpose of Prayer.
- The reason why we pray is NOT to inform God of our needs!
- The Purpose of Prayer is to build relationship with God!Matthew 18:19-20: If two or more agree on anything here on earth, it will be done for them by our Father in heaven. For whenever two or three are gathered in my name, I am in the midst of them
Series: Discipleship Toolbox
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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Discipleship Tool #1: “Share” the highs and the lows of your day with one another.o o Galatians 6:2- Bear one another’s burdens and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
Discipleship Tool #2: “Read” a verse or a passage from the Bible.o 2 Timothy 1:6-17- All scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for the teaching of doctrine, correction, reproof, and instruction in righteousness, that all godly people might be equipped to do good works.Discipleship tool #3: “Talk” with one another about how the scripture applies to your life.
o The accumulation of knowledge, without a plan to apply it to your life, is a colossal waste of time!
Series: Discipleship Toolbox
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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Proverbs 22:6- Raise up a child in the way they should go and when they get old they will not depart from it.
Two parts of this verse to learn from:
- “Raise up a child in the way they should go…”- Teach your children the essentials of life; morals, ethics, faith…
- “And when they get old they’ll not depart from it…”- We can’t make our kids do what we want… BUT… God promises that eventually they will come back to what they have been taught if they’ve been taught right!
Series: Discipleship Toolbox
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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The fact that Prairie Bible Church was born in a barn is an important part of our history. In fact, this part of our history was integral in shaping our church’s mission:Prairie Bible Church exists to help people grow in faith, by being a simple, authentic representation of Jesus’ love.
Prairie Bible Church exists for three simple purposes:
- To WORSHIP Jesus.
- To GROW as Disciples of Jesus.
- And to SERVE Jesus by serving the world.
Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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What we chose to do with what we have been given is up to us. We can resign ourselves to what we believe is inevitable… OR… we can embrace our God-given destiny!
Today's Bible Verses:
Romans 9:21Who are we to say to the potter, if he decides to make from the same lump of clay, one vessel for honor and the other for dishonor?
1 Corinthians 3:11-13No one can lay a foundation, other than the one that has already been laid, which is Christ. But upon that foundation we can build with things like gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay or straw. And one day that which we have built will be brought out into the light of day.Join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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