LifePointe Kansas City: Recent Episodes
Patrick Norris
LifePointe Church is an exciting, culturally relevant, Biblically thriving church in Olathe, Kansas (Suburb of Kansas City). Our content focuses on lifestyle theology, psychology and neurobiology as it relates to everyday roles, relationships and compulsive behaviors. We introduce people to the real Jesus and the power of Redemption.
Jesus and the first century leaders spoke often of the transformational power of ACTIVATION.
What does that mean?
When a person simply takes wholistic action upon God’s Word and promises with trust, emotion, and expectancy, a supernatural reaction takes place that leaves the person changed. For many Christians there is a wait and see relationship with God’s promises. But when we choose, rearrange our lives, surrender our hearts and souls, and act upon God’s Word, it will take us from a dead, theoretic religion into a vibrant, energized relationship.
Join us for the ACTIVATION series that will help you grasp the vast differences between just reading the Bible as an academic book versus implementing the nuances as a world-changing child of God.
Jesus and the first century leaders spoke often of the transformational power of ACTIVATION.
What does that mean?
When a person simply takes wholistic action upon God’s Word and promises with trust, emotion, and expectancy, a supernatural reaction takes place that leaves the person changed. For many Christians there is a wait and see relationship with God’s promises. But when we choose, rearrange our lives, surrender our hearts and souls, and act upon God’s Word, it will take us from a dead, theoretic religion into a vibrant, energized relationship.
Join us for the ACTIVATION series that will help you grasp the vast differences between just reading the Bible as an academic book versus implementing the nuances as a world-changing child of God.
Jesus and the first century leaders spoke often of the transformational power of ACTIVATION.
What does that mean?
When a person simply takes wholistic action upon God’s Word and promises with trust, emotion, and expectancy, a supernatural reaction takes place that leaves the person changed. For many Christians there is a wait and see relationship with God’s promises. But when we choose, rearrange our lives, surrender our hearts and souls, and act upon God’s Word, it will take us from a dead, theoretic religion into a vibrant, energized relationship.
Join us for the ACTIVATION series that will help you grasp the vast differences between just reading the Bible as an academic book versus implementing the nuances as a world-changing child of God.
Jesus and the first century leaders spoke often of the transformational power of ACTIVATION.
What does that mean?
When a person simply takes wholistic action upon God’s Word and promises with trust, emotion, and expectancy, a supernatural reaction takes place that leaves the person changed. For many Christians there is a wait and see relationship with God’s promises. But when we choose, rearrange our lives, surrender our hearts and souls, and act upon God’s Word, it will take us from a dead, theoretic religion into a vibrant, energized relationship.
Join us for the ACTIVATION series that will help you grasp the vast differences between just reading the Bible as an academic book versus implementing the nuances as a world-changing child of God.
Jesus and the first century leaders spoke often of the transformational power of ACTIVATION.
What does that mean?
When a person simply takes wholistic action upon God’s Word and promises with trust, emotion, and expectancy, a supernatural reaction takes place that leaves the person changed. For many Christians there is a wait and see relationship with God’s promises. But when we choose, rearrange our lives, surrender our hearts and souls, and act upon God’s Word, it will take us from a dead, theoretic religion into a vibrant, energized relationship.
Join us for the ACTIVATION series that will help you grasp the vast differences between just reading the Bible as an academic book versus implementing the nuances as a world-changing child of God.
Jesus and the first century leaders spoke often of the transformational power of ACTIVATION.
What does that mean?
When a person simply takes wholistic action upon God’s Word and promises with trust, emotion, and expectancy, a supernatural reaction takes place that leaves the person changed. For many Christians there is a wait and see relationship with God’s promises. But when we choose, rearrange our lives, surrender our hearts and souls, and act upon God’s Word, it will take us from a dead, theoretic religion into a vibrant, energized relationship.
Join us for the ACTIVATION series that will help you grasp the vast differences between just reading the Bible as an academic book versus implementing the nuances as a world-changing child of God.
Join us this Sunday as we celebrate FATHER'S DAY at LifePointe with a coffee chugging contest, BBQ grill-off, gator wrestling...Oops! That's the county fair info.
Dads, do you sometimes feel overwhelmed juggling work, marriage, and parenting, any of which could be a full-time activity? Do you have trouble finding the balance between love & discipline, gentleness & strength, kindness & firmness? Are you intimidated with the thought that you're called to be the spiritual leader of your family?
Join us for FATHER'S DAY as we celebrate all you do for your family, as we encourage you as you lead and train your children, and as we provide tools and resources to help you become the father you've always dreamed of being. You don't want to miss it!
Be sure to invite all the fathers you know to either join you in person or to watch online.
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E."
But is that still true for you today?
As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice?
In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life.
This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E."
But is that still true for you today?
As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice?
In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life.
This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E."
But is that still true for you today?
As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice?
In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life.
This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E."
But is that still true for you today?
As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice?
In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life.
This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E." But is that still true for you today? As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice? In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life. This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”. Join us in-person or online.
Moms, have you felt you're not doing enough, or you didn't do enough? Do you feel like a loser compared to other mom's social media highlights? Do you believe you've made huge mistakes that will forever damage your kids, or that you're continually doing multiple small things that will cause the same damage? If so, you may have Mom Guilt. For Mother's Day, LifePointe will be hosting a recorded interview with New York Times Best Selling author, child development expert, and parenting psychologist Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. Our topic will be overcoming Mom Guilt, focusing on the fears and regrets that moms have about "messing up" their kid’s lives. Join us as we all learn and receive free counsel from a leading expert in the field of parenting, guilt, anxiety, attachment, and neuroscience. We are looking forward to seeing you on Mother's Day where we encourage and celebrate the amazing gift of Mothers!
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E." But is that still true for you today? As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice? In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life. This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”. Join us in-person or online.
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E." But is that still true for you today? As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice? In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life. This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”
If you grew up in church you probably remember singing, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, The B•I•B•L•E." But is that still true for you today? As you grew up and went to college or entered the workplace, did you begin to feel tension between the culture and the Bible? Has doubt crept in due to supposed "discrepancies” and “errors”? Do you wonder how all those animals could fit on the Ark? Do you have questions regarding interpretations around issues like patriarchy, slavery, LGBTQ+, and social justice? In our culture, the Bible has been deconstructed as merely a book written by men describing their own experiences with the divine. In this new series, we reconstruct our reasoning for holding this sacred text as inspired by God, inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient as God’s power to live everyday life. This series will address any doubts you have regarding the relationship you should hold with the Bible, so that you can again say with confidence, "The B•I•B•L•E, yeah that's the book for me!”
Whether you love it or you simply endure the discomfort of it, Valentine’s Day is upon us. Maybe you are a romantic with high expectations for feelings of love, big moments, expensive restaurants, unique gifts, and a special connection. Maybe you have a history of disillusionment as the holiday never rises to your hopes and dreams. Or maybe you are unattached, and the day reminds you of enchantment you don't have. For many people Valentine’s Day is filled with pressure to BE, to PERFORM, or to ACCOMPLISH. So this year at LifePointe Church, Pastor Patrick will explore possibilities to make the day special without all the pressure. How to Have a Great Valentines Date! [Or Hang Time with Friends] is about connection, community, and heart-to-heart lean-ins, without all the commercialized trappings. We will talk through shared expectations and we will give tools for seeing and being seen, knowing and being known, and celebrating and being celebrated. Whether you are married or unmarried, attached or unattached, the principles we will share will land right where you live.
We are designed to live as champions, kings, and bearers of God’s own image. God designed us for specific standards of thinking, believing, and acting. How we think will determine where we go in our lives and our callings. Jesus strongly condemned some thoughts as demonically inspired. We are admonished throughout scripture to take every thought captive, to cast down imaginations, and to contrast our spiritual mind and our carnal mind, lest we pursue empty desires of the flesh and mind and ultimately be given to a spirit of fear rather than a sound mind. To experience the abundant life that Jesus has given us—in our marriages, parenting, emotions, finances, vocations, and relationships—we have to think right, believe right, and live right. In this series we will explore the power of God’s Word, the help of the Holy Spirit, commitment to change, and how to close the gap between God’s standards for our thinking and our actual thinking. You don’t want to miss an episode. “For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he!”
Are you facing post-election panic? Maybe your candidate won or is winning. Maybe your candidate lost or is losing. Maybe you wonder if justice is real, or if you are in danger of looming threats. Today’s political warring with the backdrop of a global pandemic, intensified racial tensions, international conflicts with China and Russia, and the uncertainty of tomorrow can generate high levels of stress, and ultimately panic. In this message Patrick walks through the science behind fear, anxiety, and panic. He shares his own brutal struggles with panic attacks. The knowledge, biblical understanding, and tools he shares in this message have helped him live in freedom for many years, and it will be a huge support to anyone who struggles today. Join us this Sunday as we talk through “POLITICS: FACING POST-ELECTION PANIC.”
Politics. Church. State. Social issues. Hot topics. How do you as a Christian give love, respect, and honor to those in a diverse community of faith who see the world differently? How do you deal with theologians that use Scriptures to “prove” opposing positions? What does the "separation of church and state" even mean? This series will not tell you how to vote; it will give Scriptural emphasis, encourage all decisions to be made from a Biblical literacy foundation, and help you know why you vote the way you vote. Topic covered may include nationalism, immigration, socialism, capitalism, critical theory, healthcare, abortion, environmentalism, Israel, government, laws, police, the questionable character of national leaders, and a whole lot more. Be prepared to find insights that galvanize your previous position on some topics, while being challenged to see other topics in a new way. In the end, we will love and celebrate God’s grace over us all!
Politics. Church. State. Social issues. Hot topics. How do you as a Christian give love, respect, and honor to those in a diverse community of faith who see the world differently? How do you deal with theologians that use Scriptures to “prove” opposing positions? What does the "separation of church and state" even mean? This series will not tell you how to vote; it will give Scriptural emphasis, encourage all decisions to be made from a Biblical literacy foundation, and help you know why you vote the way you vote. Topic covered may include nationalism, immigration, socialism, capitalism, critical theory, healthcare, abortion, environmentalism, Israel, government, laws, police, the questionable character of national leaders, and a whole lot more. Be prepared to find insights that galvanize your previous position on some topics, while being challenged to see other topics in a new way. In the end, we will love and celebrate God’s grace over us all!
Politics. Church. State. Social issues. Hot topics. How do you as a Christian give love, respect, and honor to those in a diverse community of faith who see the world differently? How do you deal with theologians that use Scriptures to “prove” opposing positions? What does the "separation of church and state" even mean? This series will not tell you how to vote; it will give Scriptural emphasis, encourage all decisions to be made from a Biblical literacy foundation, and help you know why you vote the way you vote. Topic covered may include nationalism, immigration, socialism, capitalism, critical theory, healthcare, abortion, environmentalism, Israel, government, laws, police, the questionable character of national leaders, and a whole lot more. Be prepared to find insights that galvanize your previous position on some topics, while being challenged to see other topics in a new way. In the end, we will love and celebrate God’s grace over us all!
Politics. Church. State. Social issues. Hot topics. How do you as a Christian give love, respect, and honor to those in a diverse community of faith who see the world differently? How do you deal with theologians that use Scriptures to “prove” opposing positions? What does the "separation of church and state" even mean? This series will not tell you how to vote; it will give Scriptural emphasis, encourage all decisions to be made from a Biblical literacy foundation, and help you know why you vote the way you vote. Topic covered may include nationalism, immigration, socialism, capitalism, critical theory, healthcare, abortion, environmentalism, Israel, government, laws, police, the questionable character of national leaders, and a whole lot more. Be prepared to find insights that galvanize your previous position on some topics, while being challenged to see other topics in a new way. In the end, we will love and celebrate God’s grace over us all!
Politics. Church. State. Social issues. Hot topics. How do you as a Christian give love, respect, and honor to those in a diverse community of faith who see the world differently? How do you deal with theologians that use Scriptures to “prove” opposing positions? What does the "separation of church and state" even mean? This series will not tell you how to vote; it will give Scriptural emphasis, encourage all decisions to be made from a Biblical literacy foundation, and help you know why you vote the way you vote. Topic covered may include nationalism, immigration, socialism, capitalism, critical theory, healthcare, abortion, environmentalism, Israel, government, laws, police, the questionable character of national leaders, and a whole lot more. Be prepared to find insights that galvanize your previous position on some topics, while being challenged to see other topics in a new way. In the end, we will love and celebrate God’s grace over us all!
POLITICS A SERIES ON LOVE, RESPECT AND THOUGHTFULNESS
Politics. Church. State. Social issues. Hot topics. How do you as a Christian give love, respect, and honor to those in a diverse community of faith who see the world differently? How do you deal with theologians that use Scriptures to “prove” opposing positions? What does the "separation of church and state" even mean? This series will not tell you how to vote; it will give Scriptural emphasis, encourage all decisions to be made from a Biblical literacy foundation, and help you know why you vote the way you vote. Topic covered may include nationalism, immigration, socialism, capitalism, critical theory, healthcare, abortion, environmentalism, Israel, government, laws, police, the questionable character of national leaders, and a whole lot more. Be prepared to find insights that galvanize your previous position on some topics, while being challenged to see other topics in a new way. In the end, we will love and celebrate God’s grace over us all!
THE DATING GAME A SERIES ON FINDING LOVE Are you a young adult, or living in the mature stage of life, desiring a romantic partner? Do you one-day dream of possible marriage? Do you find entering the dating game to be intimidating, exhausting and in line with pulling out wisdom teeth? You are not alone. Many singles desire a significant other but feel stuck. Does God have wisdom for this challenge? What are some great principles and strategies to navigate these waters? In THE DATING GAME, we will walk through issues of personal growth, creating vetting filters of potential suitors and intentional strategies for finding love. All of this is to help you, or a person you know, to move forward without losing yourself. You won’t want to miss an episode!
THE DATING GAME A SERIES ON FINDING LOVE Are you a young adult, or living in the mature stage of life, desiring a romantic partner? Do you one-day dream of possible marriage? Do you find entering the dating game to be intimidating, exhausting and in line with pulling out wisdom teeth? You are not alone. Many singles desire a significant other but feel stuck. Does God have wisdom for this challenge? What are some great principles and strategies to navigate these waters? In THE DATING GAME, we will walk through issues of personal growth, creating vetting filters of potential suitors and intentional strategies for finding love. All of this is to help you, or a person you know, to move forward without losing yourself. You won’t want to miss an episode!
THE DATING GAME A SERIES ON FINDING LOVE Are you a young adult, or living in the mature stage of life, desiring a romantic partner? Do you one-day dream of possible marriage? Do you find entering the dating game to be intimidating, exhausting and in line with pulling out wisdom teeth? You are not alone. Many singles desire a significant other but feel stuck. Does God have wisdom for this challenge? What are some great principles and strategies to navigate these waters? In THE DATING GAME, we will walk through issues of personal growth, creating vetting filters of potential suitors and intentional strategies for finding love. All of this is to help you, or a person you know, to move forward without losing yourself. You won’t want to miss an episode!
THE DATING GAME A SERIES ON FINDING LOVE Are you a young adult, or living in the mature stage of life, desiring a romantic partner? Do you one-day dream of possible marriage? Do you find entering the dating game to be intimidating, exhausting and in line with pulling out wisdom teeth? You are not alone. Many singles desire a significant other but feel stuck. Does God have wisdom for this challenge? What are some great principles and strategies to navigate these waters? In THE DATING GAME, we will walk through issues of personal growth, creating vetting filters of potential suitors and intentional strategies for finding love. All of this is to help you, or a person you know, to move forward without losing yourself. You won’t want to miss an episode!
THE DATING GAME A SERIES ON FINDING LOVE Are you a young adult, or living in the mature stage of life, desiring a romantic partner? Do you one-day dream of possible marriage? Do you find entering the dating game to be intimidating, exhausting and in line with pulling out wisdom teeth? You are not alone. Many singles desire a significant other but feel stuck. Does God have wisdom for this challenge? What are some great principles and strategies to navigate these waters? In THE DATING GAME, we will walk through issues of personal growth, creating vetting filters of potential suitors and intentional strategies for finding love. All of this is to help you, or a person you know, to move forward without losing yourself. You won’t want to miss an episode!
THE DATING GAME A SERIES ON FINDING LOVE Are you a young adult, or living in the mature stage of life, desiring a romantic partner? Do you one-day dream of possible marriage? Do you find entering the dating game to be intimidating, exhausting and in line with pulling out wisdom teeth? You are not alone. Many singles desire a significant other but feel stuck. Does God have wisdom for this challenge? What are some great principles and strategies to navigate these waters? In THE DATING GAME, we will walk through issues of personal growth, creating vetting filters of potential suitors and intentional strategies for finding love. All of this is to help you, or a person you know, to move forward without losing yourself. You won’t want to miss an episode!
CONVERSATIONS ABOUT RACISM WITH LAUREN WHATLEY AND BISHOP TONY DUNN Conversations About Racism is a series of separate talks with Lauren Whatley (first two conversations) and Bishop Tony Dunn (last two conversations) to explore how racism has affected each of us personally, as well as our world. We will be leveraging Lauren’s and the Bishop’s expertise and background in race, gender and systems of oppression.
Lauren holds a Master’s in Gender and Race Studies, a Bachelor’s in Human Development with a concentration in Oppression. She teaches Women’s Studies at the University of Alabama.
Bishop Tony Dunn holds degrees in Business, Practical Theology and Leadership. He pastors and oversees 19 churches in North America, South America, Asia and Africa.
We will share in personal stories of racism, as well as many of the headline topics necessary for our own personal growth. This week, Bishop Tony Dunn and I talk about capitalism versus socialism as it is tied up in the discussions on racism.
As you can imagine this will be an amazing multiple-week conversation.
CONVERSATIONS ABOUT RACISM WITH LAUREN WHATLEY AND BISHOP TONY DUNN Conversations About Racism is a series of separate talks with Lauren Whatley (first two conversations) and Bishop Tony Dunn (last two conversations) to explore how racism has affected each of us personally, as well as our world. We will be leveraging Lauren’s and the Bishop’s expertise and background in race, gender and systems of oppression.
Lauren holds a Master’s in Gender and Race Studies, a Bachelor’s in Human Development with a concentration in Oppression. She teaches Women’s Studies at the University of Alabama.
Bishop Tony Dunn holds degrees in Business, Practical Theology and Leadership. He pastors and oversees 19 churches in North America, South America, Asia and Africa.
We will share in personal stories of racism, as well as many of the headline topics necessary for our own personal growth. We will talk about:
- Generational trauma from slavery and racism
- Racism’s beginnings and definitions
- Explore feelings towards the Constitution
- How to feel about slave owner’s pictures on money
- What is white privilege? Should white people feel bad about it?
- Racial gaslighting
- Black Lives Matter as a phrase and questions about the formal movement
- Perspectives on protests, riots and looting
- Police brutality and black crime statistics
- Affirmative Action and reverse racism
- Kneeling during the National Anthem
- Capitalism versus socialism as an answer
As you can imagine this will be an amazing multiple-week conversation.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!!! Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads in our church. We have a special worship experience planned for this Sunday. Our creative team has created a funny tribute and Pastor Patrickwill be bringing a special Father's Day word(we postponed the continuation of Conversations about Racism to next week). If you have ever been to one of LifePointe's Father's Day messages you know it is all in celebration of Dads. Dads will feel honored and appreciated!
CONVERSATIONS ABOUT RACISM With Lauren Whatley Conversations About Racism is a series of talks with Lauren Whatley to explore how racism has affected us personally, as well as our world. We will be leveraging Lauren’s expertise and background in race, gender and systems of oppression. Lauren holds a Master’s in Gender and Race Studies, a Bachelor’s in Human Development with a concentration in Oppression. She teaches Women’s Studies at the University of Alabama. We will share in Lauren’s personal stories of racism, as well as many of the headline topics necessary for our own personal growth. We will talk about:
- Generational trauma from slavery and racism
- Racism’s beginnings and definitions
- Explore feelings towards the Constitution
- How to feel about slave owner’s pictures on money
- What is white privilege? Should white people feel bad about it?
- Racial gaslighting
- Black Lives Matter as a phrase and questions about the formal movement
- Perspectives on protests, riots and looting
- Police brutality and black crime statistics
- Affirmative Action and reverse racism
- Kneeling during the National Anthem
As you can imagine this will be an amazing multiple-week conversation.
CONVERSATIONS ABOUT RACISM With Lauren Whatley Conversations About Racism is a series of talks with Lauren Whatley to explore how racism has affected us personally, as well as our world. We will be leveraging Lauren’s expertise and background in race, gender and systems of oppression. Lauren holds a Master’s in Gender and Race Studies, a Bachelor’s in Human Development with a concentration in Oppression. She teaches Women’s Studies at the University of Alabama. We will share in Lauren’s personal stories of racism, as well as many of the headline topics necessary for our own personal growth. We will talk about:
- Generational trauma from slavery and racism
- Racism’s beginnings and definitions
- Explore feelings towards the Constitution
- How to feel about slave owner’s pictures on money
- What is white privilege? Should white people feel bad about it?
- Racial gaslighting
- Black Lives Matter as a phrase and questions about the formal movement
- Perspectives on protests, riots and looting
- Police brutality and black crime statistics
- Affirmative Action and reverse racism
- Kneeling during the National Anthem
As you can imagine this will be an amazing multiple-week conversation.
WHEN YOUR BACK’S AGAINST THE WALL What do you do when you have run all options, but your back is against the wall? Is the answer just trying harder, working smarter, or being resilient… or does God have a better way? When your world is shaking, your mind is freaking, and your stress is peaking, what are you going to do? In this series of teachings, we will look at God’s instructions for a breakthrough. The Bible is full of God mentoring people who had no margin, no hope and nowhere else to turn. The end of their story became the best of their story. Join us as we help you see the end of your story will be the best of your story.
DECLARATIONS FACING PRESSURE I am of God and have overcome him (satan). For greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4)
FACING PRESSURE I am far from oppression and fear does not come near me. (Isaiah 54:14)
FACING PRESSURE No weapon formed against me will prosper, for my righteousness is of the Lord. But whatever I do will prosper for I’m like a tree that’s planted by the rivers of water (Isaiah 54;17; Psalm 1:3)
PEACE The peace of God which passes all understanding keeps my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. And things which are good, and pure, and perfect, and lovely, and of good report, I think on these things. (Philippians 4:7-8)
REACH POTENTIAL The Lord will perfect that which concerns me. (Psalm 138:8)
GAINING WISDOM I am a new creation in Christ, I am His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Therefore I have the mind of Christ and the wisdom of God is formed within me. (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; I Corinthians 2:16)
FREEDOM/GUILT And I, having received the gift of righteousness do reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)
FREEDOM DARK I am delivered from the power of darkness and I am translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. (Colossians 1:13)
REDEEMED KIDS Great is the peace of my children for they are taught of the Lord. (Isaiah 54:13)
PROTECTION No evil will befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over me and they keep me in all my ways, and in my pathway is life and there is no death. (Psalm 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28)
SECURE DECISIONS I do follow the good shepherd and I know His voice and the voice of a stranger I will not follow. (John 10:4-5)
SECURE DECISIONS The Lord enlarges my steps and establishes my thoughts. Therefore I will make healthy Holy Spirit-led decisions. (Psalm 18:36; Proverbs 16:3)
RESTORATION The Lord redeems my life from destruction and crowns me with tender mercies. The Lord satisfies my mouth with good things. My steps are ordered by the Lord. Even if I were to fall down, He upholds me with his hand. (Ps 103:4; Ps 37:23-24)
SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY The Lord makes my way prosperous and gives me good success. Jesus has redeemed me from the curse of sin and given me the grace (power in human weakness) to have unlimited available resources. (Joshua 1:8; Gal 3:13; 2 Cor 8:7)
GOD’S FAVOR The Lord has given me favor with God and man. I execute authority over my calling and future. The free favors of God are profusely abounding in my life. I am at the right place at the right time with the right people. People of power are stirred and predisposed to give me special advantages and preferential treatment. I reek with, and am crowned with, the abundance of God’s free favors over my life. Incredible things happen to me every day that other people don’t have happen in a lifetime. (Pr 3:4; Luke 4:19; Pr 8:5)
DECLARATIONS DOWNLOAD Copy this url and paste in your favorite browser to download https://app.box.com/v/declare
IF YOUR MONEY COULD TALK… JESUS, THE HEART, THE BRAIN & FINANCES Today, we are honored to have Dr. Todd Bowman as our special interview guest. Dr. Bowman and Pastor Patrick will be having a conversation about financial drivers. During times of economic crisis many people are experiencing emotional intensity, and even panic, around issues of money. What drives our money panic? Why do we have such deep impulses to hoard, spend, feel prosperity guilt, escape to grandiose financial fantasies, or give in erratic ways?
For some of us, these inordinate financial energy pockets were inked into our hearts from specific financial experiences:
- Childhood poverty or unfulfilled wants
- Parental messages based in their own fears
- Witnessing a parent’s career layoff and ensuing struggles
- Lost nest eggs to economic downturns
- Experiencing the exploitation of a person of power and feelings of powerlessness
Join us for this fun, informative and spiritual conversation around money, economics and Jesus!
MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION Mother’s Day is a special celebration of all mothers. LifePointe Church takes this Sunday to slow down and acknowledge how amazing mothers are. She was your first best friend and the person to turn to for advice. To the man whose lady is the mother of his children, this is a day to pull out the stops. This day also is a great day to celebrate all the women in our lives: grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and friends. We want to show them how special we think they are. Join us this Sunday as we celebrate Mother’s Day.
JESUS, THE HEART, THE BRAIN & FINANCES Today, we are honored to have Dr. Todd Bowman as our special interview guest. Dr. Bowman and Pastor Patrick will be having a conversation about financial drivers. During times of economic crisis many people are experiencing emotional intensity, and even panic, around issues of money. What drives our money panic? Why do we have such deep impulses to hoard, spend, feel prosperity guilt, escape to grandiose financial fantasies, or give in erratic ways?
For some of us, these inordinate financial energy pockets were inked into our hearts from specific financial experiences:
- Childhood poverty or unfulfilled wants
- Parental messages based in their own fears
- Witnessing a parent’s career layoff and ensuing struggles
- Lost nest eggs to economic downturns
- Experiencing the exploitation of a person of power and feelings of powerlessness
Join us for this fun, informative and spiritual conversation around money, economics and Jesus!
WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC DOES GOD CONSPIRE WITH EVIL? What about God’s wrath, judgment, angels of death, etc.? During times of crisis ALL of humanity is faced with “God” questions.
- Where is God in this pandemic?
- Did God cause the novel coronavirus?
- Is God being passive-aggressive to allow it to happen?
- If God is loving WHY doesn’t He intervene?
- Is the pandemic an act of God’s judgment?
- Is there anything humans/believers can do?
- Can we expect special protection during these times?
- Will prayer motivate God?
- What does God feel towards human suffering?
All of these questions often hang with no more resolution, stopping at the question marks. During this amazing series we will look at philosophical and theological ideas that help us make sense of God, returning us to wholehearted intimacy with God, ourselves and those around us. Join us as we explore the peace of God in times of crisis.
____________________
ARE GOD’S PROMISES RELIABLE? 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20 KJV For all the PROMISES of God in CHRIST [are] YEA, and in him AMEN, unto the glory of God by us.
PSALM 33:18-20 KJV Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them… that hope in his MERCY; 19 … to keep them alive in FAMINE. 20 …he [is] our HELP and our SHIELD.
EXODUS 23:25 NKJV And I will take SICKNESS AWAY from the MIDST of you.
PSALM 91:10-11, 14-16 NKJV NO EVIL shall befall you, nor shall any PLAGUE come NEAR YOUR DWELLING; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. ... 15 I [will be] with him in TROUBLE; I will DELIVER HIM and honor him. 16 With LONG LIFE I will satisfy him, and show him My SALVATION."
____________________
WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC BUT WHAT ABOUT… ?????????? ____________________
FAITH ALWAYS STOPS AT THE ??????? ____________________
INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS: DEUTERONOMY 29:20 NKJV THE LORD would not spare the idolater; for then the ANGER of the LORD and His JEALOUSY would BURN against that man, and EVERY CURSE that is written in this book would settle on him, and THE LORD would BLOT OUT HIS NAME from under heaven.
PSALM 78:49 NKJV [God said about the Exodus] He cast on them the FIERCENESS of His ANGER, WRATH, INDIGNATION…
ROMANS 9:22-23 NKJV [What] if God, wanting to show [His] WRATH and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of WRATH PREPARED FOR DESTRUCTION, 23 and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the VESSELS of MERCY, which He had prepared beforehand for glory…
REVELATION 16:1 NKJV Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, "Go and POUR OUT the BOWLS OF THE WRATH OF GOD on the earth.”
PSALM 5:5-6 NLT Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence, for you HATE ALL WHO DO EVIL. 6 … THE LORD DETESTS murderers and deceivers.
MATTHEW 10:14-15 NKJV [Jesus said] 14 "And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. 15 "Assuredly, I say to you, it will be MORE TOLERABLE for the land of SODOM AND GOMORRAH in the day of JUDGMENT than for that city!
____________________
INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS: * God’s Anger, Wrath and Indignation * Jealousy * Hate * Judgment of God
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INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS: * Noah’s Flood * Sodom and Gomorrah * Ananias and Sapphira * Paul Cursing a Sorcerer with Blindness * Angels of Destruction * Annihilation by Conquest * Final Judgments and Wrath of Revelation * Hell
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MISTAKES WE MAKE WITH BIBLE DIFFICULTIES 1. Assuming that the unexplained is not explainable 2. Presuming the Bible guilty until proven innocent 3. Confusing our fallible interpretations with God’s infallible revelation 4. Failing to understand the context of the passage 5. Basing doctrine/teaching on an obscure passage 6. Forgetting the Bible is a human book with human characteristics 7. Neglecting that the Bible uses different literary devices (figures of speech)
____________________
DOES GOD… RAGE HATE JEALOUSY LIKE HUMANS ?????????? ____________________
DOES GOD… CREATE DO CONSPIRE WITH EVIL ?????????? ____________________
WHAT DOES EVIL LOOK LIKE? ANYTHING THAT LACKS PURE GOODNESS! * Plagues (Viruses) * Physical Weakness * Infertility * Accidents * Death * Financial Need * Famines * Oppressive Labor * Hating Work/Labor * Sexual Assault * Harassment * No Justice * Fear For Safety * Hard Heartedness * Seared Conscience * Mental Disorders * Anxiety Disorders * Depression * Fear & Confusion * Faulty Cognition * Addictions * Divorce * Broken Families * Child Abductions * Kidnappings * Perpetration * Shame & Guilt * Embarrassment * Humiliation * Regrets * Hiding & Inferiority * Isolation * Rejection * Victimization * Exploitation * Oppression * Cynicism * “Life Is Hard” * Etc.
____________________
GOD IS ALL GOOD 1 JOHN 4:8 NKJV He who does not love does not know God, for GOD IS LOVE.
GOD IS ALL PURE PSALM 99:9 NKJV Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His holy hill; For the LORD our GOD [IS] HOLY.
____________________
WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT GOD WILL DEFINE EVERYTHING ELSE ABOUT YOU! ____________________
INTERPRETING GOD – HOW? BEGIN WITH WHAT “IT” IS NOT!
BECOME CURIOUS IN EXPLORATION!
____________________
HOW TO INTERPRET GOD – WEEK 1 1. COMPARE WITH JESUS 2. OVERLAY REDEMPTION AGAINST EVIL 3. REMEMBER PERMISSIVE VERBS 4. INTEGRATE CREATION’S PROCESS LAWS 5. ACTIVATE AUTHORITY THROUGH REDEMPTION
____________________
JUSTICE DOES NOT CONSPIRE WITH EVIL God’s justice is not a spin for God to conspire with evil.
THE ISSUE IS HOW JUSTICE OR EVIL ACTUALLY HAPPENS! ____________________ - GOD’S EMOTIONS - DOES GOD… RAGE HATE JEALOUSY LIKE HUMANS ?????????? ____________________
INTERPRETING GOD – BELIEVERS ROMANS 5:8-9 NKJV But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be SAVED FROM WRATH through Him.
1 THESSALONIANS 1:10; 5:9 NKJV … [even] Jesus who DELIVERS US FROM THE WRATH to come…. 5:9 For GOD DID NOT APPOINT US TO WRATH, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ…
EPHESIANS 2:2-5 NKJV … the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of WRATH, just as the others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
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- GOD’S EMOTIONS - GOD’S RAGE HATE JEALUOSY IS ALWAYS ABOUT JUSTICE, NOT RETALIATION! ____________________
INTERPRETING GOD – GOD’S JUSTICE * PASSIVE JUDGMENT * ACTIVE JUDGMENT * LEGAL SEPARATION (A MULTIDIMENSIONAL UNIVERSE) * COMMISSIONED ENFORCEMENT
____________________
INTERPRETING GOD – GOD’S PATTERN 1. GOD WARNS IN ADVANCE (MERCY) 2. GOD GIVES GRACE TO AVOID IMPENDING SUFFERING 3. ALL WHO REPENT/CHANGE GIVEN A WAY TO ESCAPE 4. SOMEONE IS ALMOST ALWAYS “SAVED” OUT OF SUFFERING 5. JUDGMENTS MAKE PUBLIC AWARENESS
____________________
MATTHEW 16:19 NCV[Jesus said] I will give you the KEYS of the kingdom of heaven; the things YOU DON’T ALLOW on earth will be the things that God does not allow, and the things YOU ALLOW on earth will be the things that God allows.
____________________
GOD’S PROMISES PSALM 33:18-20 KJV Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them… that hope in his MERCY; 19 … to keep them alive in FAMINE. 20 …he [is] our HELP and our SHIELD.
EXODUS 23:25 NKJV And I will take SICKNESS AWAY from the MIDST of you.
PSALM 91:10-11, 14-16 NKJV NO EVIL shall befall you, nor shall any PLAGUE come NEAR YOUR DWELLING; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. ... 15 I [will be] with him in TROUBLE; I will DELIVER HIM and honor him. 16 With LONG LIFE I will satisfy him, and show him My SALVATION."
____________________
ACTIVATE GOD’S PROMISES 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13 NKJV And since we have the same SPIRIT OF FAITH, according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," WE ALSO BELIEVE AND THEREFORE SPEAK…
JAMES 2:18, 26 NKJV … show me your faith without your works (activations), and I will show you my FAITH by MY WORKS (ACTIVATIONS)… 26 …FAITH without WORKS (ACTIVATIONS) is DEAD also.
_________________________________________________________________
DECLARATIONS FACING PRESSURE I am of God and have overcome him (satan). For greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4)
FACING PRESSURE I am far from oppression and fear does not come near me. (Isaiah 54:14)
FACING PRESSURE No weapon formed against me will prosper, for my righteousness is of the Lord. But whatever I do will prosper for I’m like a tree that’s planted by the rivers of water (Isaiah 54;17; Psalm 1:3)
PEACE The peace of God which passes all understanding keeps my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. And things which are good, and pure, and perfect, and lovely, and of good report, I think on these things. (Philippians 4:7-8)
REACH POTENTIAL The Lord will perfect that which concerns me. (Psalm 138:8)
GAINING WISDOM I am a new creation in Christ, I am His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Therefore I have the mind of Christ and the wisdom of God is formed within me. (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; I Corinthians 2:16)
FREEDOM/GUILT And I, having received the gift of righteousness do reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)
FREEDOM DARK I am delivered from the power of darkness and I am translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. (Colossians 1:13)
REDEEMED KIDS Great is the peace of my children for they are taught of the Lord. (Isaiah 54:13)
PROTECTION No evil will befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over me and they keep me in all my ways, and in my pathway is life and there is no death. (Psalm 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28)
SECURE DECISIONS I do follow the good shepherd and I know His voice and the voice of a stranger I will not follow. (John 10:4-5)
SECURE DECISIONS The Lord enlarges my steps and establishes my thoughts. Therefore I will make healthy Holy Spirit-led decisions. (Psalm 18:36; Proverbs 16:3)
RESTORATION The Lord redeems my life from destruction and crowns me with tender mercies. The Lord satisfies my mouth with good things. My steps are ordered by the Lord. Even if I were to fall down, He upholds me with his hand. (Ps 103:4; Ps 37:23-24)
SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY The Lord makes my way prosperous and gives me good success. Jesus has redeemed me from the curse of sin and given me the grace (power in human weakness) to have unlimited available resources. (Joshua 1:8; Gal 3:13; 2 Cor 8:7)
GOD’S FAVOR The Lord has given me favor with God and man. I execute authority over my calling and future. The free favors of God are profusely abounding in my life. I am at the right place at the right time with the right people. People of power are stirred and predisposed to give me special advantages and preferential treatment. I reek with, and am crowned with, the abundance of God’s free favors over my life. Incredible things happen to me every day that other people don’t have happen in a lifetime. (Pr 3:4; Luke 4:19; Pr 8:5)
DECLARATIONS DOWNLOAD Copy this url and paste in your favorite browser to download https://app.box.com/v/declare
WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC During times of crisis ALL of humanity is faced with “God” questions.
- Where is God in this pandemic?
- Did God cause the novel coronavirus?
- Is God being passive-aggressive to allow it to happen?
- If God is loving WHY doesn’t He intervene?
- Is the pandemic an act of God’s judgment?
- Is there anything humans/believers can do?
- Can we expect special protection during these times?
- Will prayer motivate God?
- What does God feel towards human suffering?
All of these questions often hang with no more resolution, stopping at the question marks. During this amazing series we will look at philosophical and theological ideas that help us make sense of God, returning us to wholehearted intimacy with God, ourselves and those around us. Join us as we explore the peace of God in times of crisis.
____________________
ARE GOD’S PROMISES RELIABLE? 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20 KJV For all the PROMISES of God in CHRIST [are] YEA, and in him AMEN, unto the glory of God by us.
PSALM 33:18-20 KJV Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them… that hope in his MERCY; 19 … to keep them alive in FAMINE. 20 …he [is] our HELP and our SHIELD.
EXODUS 23:25 NKJV And I will take SICKNESS AWAY from the MIDST of you.
PSALM 91:10-11, 14-16 NKJV NO EVIL shall befall you, nor shall any PLAGUE come NEAR YOUR DWELLING; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. ... 15 I [will be] with him in TROUBLE; I will DELIVER HIM and honor him. 16 With LONG LIFE I will satisfy him, and show him My SALVATION."
____________________
WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC BUT WHAT ABOUT… ?????????? ____________________
FAITH ALWAYS STOPS AT THE ??????? ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS ISAIAH 45:7 KJV I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and CREATE EVIL: I the LORD do all these [things].
AMOS 3:6 KJV Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there be EVIL in a city, and the LORD hath not DONE [IT]?
1 SAMUEL 16:14 KJV But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an EVIL SPIRIT FROM THE LORD troubled him.
____________________
DOES GOD… CREATE DO SEND EVIL ?????????? ____________________
WHAT DOES EVIL LOOK LIKE? * Plagues (Viruses) * Physical Weakness * Infertility * Accidents * Death * Financial Need * Famines * Oppressive Labor * Hating Work/Labor * Sexual Assault * Harassment * No Justice * Fear For Safety * Hard Heartedness * Seared Conscience * Mental Disorders * Anxiety Disorders * Depression * Fear & Confusion * Faulty Cognition * Addictions * Divorce * Broken Families * Child Abductions * Kidnappings * Perpetration * Shame & Guilt * Embarrassment * Humiliation * Regrets * Hiding & Inferiority * Isolation * Rejection * Victimization * Exploitation * Oppression * Cynicism * “Life Is Hard” * Etc.
ANYTHING THAT LACKS PURE GOODNESS! ____________________
GOD IS ALL GOOD 1 JOHN 4:8 NKJV He who does not love does not know God, for GOD IS LOVE.
GOD IS ALL PURE PSALM 99:9 NKJV Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His holy hill; For the LORD our GOD [IS] HOLY.
____________________
EVIL IS ANYTHING THAT LACKS GOODNESS 1. ONLY ONE GOD 2. ALL EXISTENCE COMES FROM GOD 3. GOD IS LOVE/GOOD 4. EVIL IS THE OPPOSITE OF GOOD 5. ANYTHING NOT GOOD IS EVIL 6. EVIL IS THE ABSENCE OF GOOD
____________________
DOES GOD… CREATE, DO, OR SEND EVIL ?????????? ____________________
HOW TO INTERPRET GOD – WEEK 1 1. COMPARE WITH JESUS 2. OVERLAY REDEMPTION AGAINST EVIL 3. REMEMBER PERMISSIVE VERBS 4. INTEGRATE CREATION’S PROCESS LAWS 5. ACTIVATE AUTHORITY THROUGH REDEMPTION
____________________
INTERPRETING GOD – DEEPER DIVE ISAIAH 45:7 KJV I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and CREATE EVIL: I the LORD do all these [things].
AMOS 3:6 KJV Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there be EVIL in a city, and the LORD hath not DONE [IT]?
1 SAMUEL 16:14 KJV But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an EVIL SPIRIT FROM THE LORD troubled him.
____________________
DOES GOD CREATE, DO OR SEND EVIL? JAMES 1:13-14 KJV Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with EVIL, neither does He tempt any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own...
1 CORINTHIANS 14:33 NKJV For God is not [THE AUTHOR] OF CONFUSION…
ROMANS 5:12 NKJV Therefore, just as THROUGH ONE MAN SIN ENTERED the world, and DEATH THROUGH SIN, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned.
____________________
DEEP DIVE IN DIFFICULT TEXTS – CREATE EVIL ISAIAH 45:7 KJV I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and CREATE EVIL: I the LORD do all these [things].
1 JOHN 1:5 NKJV This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that GOD IS LIGHT and IN HIM IS NO DARKNESS AT ALL.
____________________
DEEP DIVE IN DIFFICULT TEXTS – LORD DONE IT AMOS 3:6 KJV Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there be EVIL in a city, and the LORD hath not DONE [IT]?
HEBREW FIGURES OF SPEECH
PERMISSIVE HEBREW VERBS
DECLARATION CONCERNING IT - FORETELLING AS TO BE DONE
MATTHEW 16:19 NCV[Jesus said] I will give you the KEYS of the kingdom of heaven; the things YOU DON’T ALLOW on earth will be the things that God does not allow, and the things YOU ALLOW on earth will be the things that God allows.
____________________
DEEP DIVE IN DIFFICULT TEXTS – EVIL SPIRIT 1 SAMUEL 16:14 KJV But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an EVIL SPIRIT FROM THE LORD troubled him.
HEBREW FIGURES OF SPEECH
PERMISSIVE HEBREW VERBS
DECLARATION CONCERNING IT - FORETELLING AS TO BE DONE
____________________
ACTIVATE GOD’S PROMISES PSALM 33:18-20 KJV Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them… that hope in his MERCY; 19 … to keep them alive in FAMINE. 20 …he [is] our HELP and our SHIELD.
EXODUS 23:25 NKJV And I will take SICKNESS AWAY from the MIDST of you.
PSALM 91:10-11, 14-16 NKJV NO EVIL shall befall you, nor shall any PLAGUE come NEAR YOUR DWELLING; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. ... 15 I [will be] with him in TROUBLE; I will DELIVER HIM and honor him. 16 With LONG LIFE I will satisfy him, and show him My SALVATION."
____________________
HOW TO ACTIVATE GOD’S PROMISES 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13 NKJV And since we have the same SPIRIT OF FAITH, according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," WE ALSO BELIEVE AND THEREFORE SPEAK…
JAMES 2:18, 26 NKJV … show me your faith without your works (activations), and I will show you my FAITH by MY WORKS (ACTIVATIONS)… 26 …FAITH without WORKS (ACTIVATIONS) is DEAD also.
_________________________________________________________________
DECLARATIONS FACING PRESSURE I am of God and have overcome him (satan). For greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4)
FACING PRESSURE I am far from oppression and fear does not come near me. (Isaiah 54:14)
FACING PRESSURE No weapon formed against me will prosper, for my righteousness is of the Lord. But whatever I do will prosper for I’m like a tree that’s planted by the rivers of water (Isaiah 54;17; Psalm 1:3)
PEACE The peace of God which passes all understanding keeps my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. And things which are good, and pure, and perfect, and lovely, and of good report, I think on these things. (Philippians 4:7-8)
REACH POTENTIAL The Lord will perfect that which concerns me. (Psalm 138:8)
GAINING WISDOM I am a new creation in Christ, I am His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Therefore I have the mind of Christ and the wisdom of God is formed within me. (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; I Corinthians 2:16)
FREEDOM/GUILT And I, having received the gift of righteousness do reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)
FREEDOM DARK I am delivered from the power of darkness and I am translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. (Colossians 1:13)
REDEEMED KIDS Great is the peace of my children for they are taught of the Lord. (Isaiah 54:13)
PROTECTION No evil will befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over me and they keep me in all my ways, and in my pathway is life and there is no death. (Psalm 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28)
SECURE DECISIONS I do follow the good shepherd and I know His voice and the voice of a stranger I will not follow. (John 10:4-5)
SECURE DECISIONS The Lord enlarges my steps and establishes my thoughts. Therefore I will make healthy Holy Spirit-led decisions. (Psalm 18:36; Proverbs 16:3)
RESTORATION The Lord redeems my life from destruction and crowns me with tender mercies. The Lord satisfies my mouth with good things. My steps are ordered by the Lord. Even if I were to fall down, He upholds me with his hand. (Ps 103:4; Ps 37:23-24)
SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY The Lord makes my way prosperous and gives me good success. Jesus has redeemed me from the curse of sin and given me the grace (power in human weakness) to have unlimited available resources. (Joshua 1:8; Gal 3:13; 2 Cor 8:7)
GOD’S FAVOR The Lord has given me favor with God and man. I execute authority over my calling and future. The free favors of God are profusely abounding in my life. I am at the right place at the right time with the right people. People of power are stirred and predisposed to give me special advantages and preferential treatment. I reek with, and am crowned with, the abundance of God’s free favors over my life. Incredible things happen to me every day that other people don’t have happen in a lifetime. (Pr 3:4; Luke 4:19; Pr 8:5)
WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC [EASTER - HOW CHRIST’S REDEMPTION CLARIFIES GOD’S HEART OF PROTECTION]
During times of crisis all of humanity is faced with “God” questions.
- Where is God in this pandemic?
- Did God cause the novel coronavirus?
- Is God being passive-aggressive to allow it to happen?
- If God is loving why doesn’t He intervene?
- Is the pandemic an act of God’s judgment?
- Is there anything humans/believers can do?
- Can we expect special protection during these times?
- Will prayer motivate God?
- What does God feel towards human suffering?
All of these questions often hang with no more resolution, stopping at the question marks. During this amazing series we will look at philosophical and theological ideas that help us make sense of God, returning us to wholehearted intimacy with God, ourselves and those around us. Join us as we explore the peace of God in times of crisis.
WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC During times of crisis all of humanity is faced with “God” questions.
- Where is God in this pandemic?
- Did God cause the novel coronavirus?
- Is God being passive-aggressive to allow it to happen?
- If God is loving why doesn’t He intervene?
- Is the pandemic an act of God’s judgment?
- Is there anything humans/believers can do?
- Can we expect special protection during these times?
- Will prayer motivate God?
- What does God feel towards human suffering?
All of these questions often hang with no more resolution, stopping at the question marks. During this amazing series we will look at philosophical and theological ideas that help us make sense of God, returning us to wholehearted intimacy with God, ourselves and those around us. Join us as we explore the peace of God in times of crisis.
Join us the next 2 weeks of April 5 (Palm Sunday) and April 12 (Easter) for an online gathering and teaching. We can be physically distant while not forsaking the relational connections that have brought us together. Invite your unchurched friends and family to experience a functional and healthy way to live life together.
BRAVE HEARTS IN A SCARED WORLD! Have you ever felt more a part of a global community and at the same time more repelled into isolation? We are learning all kinds of new vocabulary like “social distancing,” “flattening the curve,” “epidemiologists,” “virologists” and so much more. Our favorite entertainments of sporting events, concerts, going out to restaurants and even worshipping at church have been greatly disrupted. People are dying around the world, with the threat of over a million fatalities. Yet we are also told we could have the disease and present no symptoms at all. People are shopping for weeks of food at a time, and some have stocked for years on toilet paper (still a mystery to all). Accusations that some people are being “too hyper-anxious” and others “minimizing.” Social distancing is already impacting working parents with kids at home, while others aren’t fortunate to have a secure paycheck anymore. We are told this could go on through July or August, and most people live from paycheck to paycheck. So! What is the Jesus response to such times? If we are the light of the world, what should that actually look like right now? How will we have authentically brave hearts in a scared world?
BRAVE HEARTS IN A SCARED WORLD! Have you ever felt more a part of a global community and at the same time more repelled into isolation? We are learning all kinds of new vocabulary like “social distancing,” “flattening the curve,” “epidemiologists,” “virologists” and so much more. Our favorite entertainments of sporting events, concerts, going out to restaurants and even worshipping at church have been greatly disrupted. People are dying around the world, with the threat of over a million fatalities. Yet we are also told we could have the disease and present no symptoms at all. People are shopping for weeks of food at a time, and some have stocked for years on toilet paper (still a mystery to all). Accusations that some people are being “too hyper-anxious” and others “minimizing.” Social distancing is already impacting working parents with kids at home, while others aren’t fortunate to have a secure paycheck anymore. We are told this could go on through July or August, and most people live from paycheck to paycheck. So! What is the Jesus response to such times? If we are the light of the world, what should that actually look like right now? How will we have authentically brave hearts in a scared world?
RHYTHMS OF GRACE FIXED MINDSET “Believing that your qualities are carved in stone—the fixed mindset creates an urgency to prove yourself over and over.”
“I’ve seen so many people with this one consuming goal of proving themselves—in the classroom, in their careers, and in their relationships. Every situation calls for a confirmation of their intelligence, personality, or character. Every situation is evaluated: Will I succeed or fail? Will I look smart or dumb? Will I be accepted or rejected? Will I feel like a winner or a loser?”
MATTHEW 11:28-30 MSG “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? COME TO ME. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. LEARN THE UNFORCED RHYTHMS OF GRACE. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
INVITATION OF JESUS Come close to feel SAFE, be LOVED, and LEARN!
OUR BRAINS ARE ASKING 3 QUESTIONS: [In this order] 1. Am I SAFE? Brain Stem 2. Am I LOVED? Limbic System 3. What can I LEARN? Prefrontal Cortex
GROWTH MINDSET “This growth mindset is based on the belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts, your strategies, and help from others…everyone can change and grow through application, effort, and experience.”
OUR RESPONSE 1. Rhythms of Life 2. Effort Toward Learning
Dallas Willard: "The path of spiritual growth in the riches of Christ is not a passive one. Grace is not opposed to effort. It is opposed to earning. Effort is action. Earning is attitude. You have never seen people more active than those who have been set on fire by the grace of God. Paul, who perhaps understood grace better than any other mere human being, looked back at what had happened to him and said: "By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me did not prove vain; but I labored even more than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God with me." (I Cor. 15:10)”
FOR THE LOVE OF MONEY How would you like to know what your driven-money is driven by? The two most anxiety stimulating topics we have is about money or sex. Both reach into the most personal spaces of our identity. For someone to talk about that space touches us in our biological nervous system. To become vulnerable and transparent about these topics reveals our emotional fragility. Why? Our primal brains are asking, “Am I safe?”, then “Do I belong?”, and finally “What can I learn?”, in that exact sequence. Money and sex makes us feel vulnerable, exposed and threatened. Because of our griefs, losses and traumas - that have been sustained over a lifetime - we are embedded with coding in our subconscious processing. Have you ever wondered why you feel such shame around your imperfections with money? What if we could help you separate from the shame-voice by safely exploring the neuroscience behind why you spend the way you spend, or save the way you save, or give the way you give? Every Jesus-follower I have ever met wants to be great managers of money, but feel they are flawed and disappointing to God. It’s time to open our hearts to Jesus’ teachings about our challenges with money and let His healing graces restore our souls!
If you can't make it next week or in person, tune in by live stream at mylifepointe.com/sermons .
BEGINS: March 1, 2020
WHERE: LifePointe Church | 2080 E 151st Street | Olathe (Kansas City)
TIME: 10am
TODAY’S MESSAGE FINANCIAL HABITS, PATTERNS AND FANTASIES ARE NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF; THEY ARE SOME OF OUR GREATEST TEACHERS! __________________
THE HEART IS WHERE EVERYTHING STARTS! PROVERBS 4:23 NIV Above all else, GUARD YOUR HEART, for EVERYTHING YOU DO flows from it.
__________________
THE ABUNDANCE OF GOOD AND THE ABUNDANCE OF PAIN COME FROM THE ABUNDANCE OF THE HEART. LUKE 6:45 NKJV (Jesus said) A good man out of the good treasure of his HEART brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his HEART brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the HEART his mouth speaks.
__________________
THE HEART HAS DRIVERS THAT WILL DEFILE OR RECONCILE. MATTHEW 15:19-20 NKJV (Jesus said) For out of the HEART proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. 20 These are [the things] which DEFILE a man…
__________________
HEART Soft / Hardened
Good / Evil
Strong / Weak
Understanding / Deceived
Whole / Broken
Desires / Lusts
Cheerful / Heavy
Wise / Foolish
Upright / Unyielding
__________________
IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT IS DRIVING YOUR HEART FOLLOW THE TRAIL OF “BREADCRUMBS” LEFT BY YOUR MONEY PATTERNS. MATTHEW 6:21 NKJV (Jesus said) For where your TREASURE [RICHES; MONEY] is, there your HEART will be also.
__________________
OUR HEART PATTERNS CAN BE FOUND IN OUR MONEY PATTERNS. 1 TIMOTHY 6:9-10 NKJV (Paul said) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the LOVE OF MONEY is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their GREEDINESS, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
__________________
FINANCIAL DISORDERS & MORALITY Chronic self-defeating and self-destructive financial behaviors are not driven
by our rational, thinking minds; they stem from psychological forces
that are outside our conscious awareness and their roots run deep into our past.
__________________
5 KEY CHILDHOOD DRIVERS 1. RIGID AND/OR DISENGAGED FAMILY SYSTEMS
2. ABANDONMENT
3. PARENTS WHO WERE EMOTIONALLY ENMESHED WITH CHILDREN
4. A HISTORY OF TRAUMA (INCLUDING FINANCIAL)
5. ABUSE (PHYSICAL, VERBAL, SEXUAL - OVERT AND COVERT)
__________________
THE CHOICE TO GROW & BE FREE It isn’t a moral issue to have a behavior disorder;
however, it is a moral issue to continue the disorder
without addressing and reprocessing the root causes.
__________________
ACTIVATION Out of everything we talked about today,
what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
- ASSESS THE “ROOTS” OF YOUR PRESENT CHOICES
- RE-SURRENDER TO GOD’S FINANCIAL PLAN
- PURSUE EMOTIONAL HEATLH TOWARDS MONEY
2020 LIFE & CHURCH REIMAGINED 2020 will bring vision and clarity! Decades ago, futurists predicted what the world would look like in this milestone-year in human history. They said we would have self-driving cars, vote electronically from home, depression would be a primary disease, people would live on mars, and that we would work 26 hours a week. Some predictions were spot-on, while others have alluded us. Some of us dreamed of “Jetson’s” lifestyles with robot-maids and travel by spaceships. What will be your 2020 predictions for marriage, parenting, business, and church? Will you be happy this year? Where will you be by the end of this decade? Will the derailing compulsions, addictions and unhealthy patterns still haunt you? As a church, what will be the future? Will we reimagine God’s kingdom in church community? Will we find peace, joy and fulfillment? Will we see ourselves with a futuristic clarity? This year will be the beginning of something special!
TODAY’S MESSAGE WHAT DO YOU THINK OF
WHEN YOU THINK OF
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH?
__________________
WHAT you think about
WHEN you think about
GOD, LIFE and CHURCH
will DEFINE EVERYTHING else
ABOUT YOU!
__________________
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH?
__________________
ASKED IN A DIFFERENT WAY
WHAT PURPOSE DOES
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH SERVE?
__________________
GOD SERVES A PURPOSE MATTHEW 6:10 TPT [Jesus taught prayer to God the Father] Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause YOUR every PURPOSE to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is fulfilled in heaven.
JESUS SERVES A PURPOSE JOHN 6:27 TPT Why would you strive for food that is perishable and not be passionate to SEEK THE FOOD OF ETERNAL LIFE, which never spoils? I, the Son of Man, am ready to give you WHAT MATTERS MOST, for God the Father has destined me for this PURPOSE.”
THE APOSTLE PAUL SERVED A PURPOSE PHILIPPIANS 3:12 TPT [Paul said] I admit that I haven’t yet acquired the absolute fullness that I’m pursuing, but I RUN WITH PASSION into his abundance so that I may REACH the PURPOSE that Jesus Christ has CALLED ME TO FULFILL and WANTS ME TO DISCOVER.
YOU HAVE AND SERVE A PURPOSE EPHESIANS 5:15-16 TPT [Paul said] So BE VERY CAREFUL HOW YOU LIVE, not being like those with no understanding, but live honorably with true wisdom, for we are living in evil times. TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF EVERY DAY as you SPEND YOUR LIFE for HIS PURPOSES.
__________________
PURPOSE IS BEYOND SURVIVAL Everybody’s got to EAT and live INDOORS. - Charlie Renfroe
__________________
3 QUESTIONS WE ASK BEFORE PURPOSE 1. AM I SAFE? 2. DO I BELONG? 3. WHAT CAN I LEARN AND DO?
__________________
WHAT IS PURPOSE? THE REASON FOR
WHICH SOMETHING EXISTS
OR IS ACCOMPLISHED.
__________________
THE MYTH OF PURPOSE PURPOSE
IS SOMETHING
I ACCOMPLISH.
__________________
THE TRUTH OF PURPOSE PURPOSE
IS A MEANS TO AN END;
IT IS NOT THE END.
__________________
QUESTIONS WE ASK WHAT IS MY PURPOSE?
WHY AM I HERE?
WHAT IS MY CALLING?
__________________
THE STARTING POINT OF PURPOSE IS NOT… WHAT AM I HERE FOR?
WHAT IS MY CALLING?
__________________
THE STARTING POINT OF PURPOSE IS … WHO AM I HERE FOR?
WHO ARE WE HERE FOR?
__________________
FINDING PURPOSE PURPOSE
IS ALWAYS FOUND
JUST ACROSS THE BORDER FROM
“WHAT IS IN IT FOR ME?”
__________________
POWERED BY PURPOSE PURPOSE IS A MEANS TO AN END.
PURPOSE HAS A PRICE.
PURPOSE IS THE PATH TO MEANING.
__________________
WHAT YOU DEVOTE YOURSELF TO… THOSE WHO DEVOTE
THEMSELVES TO THEMSELVES
WILL ULTIMATELY HAVE NOTHING BUT
THEMSELVES TO SHOW FOR THEMSELVES.
__________________
LIFEPOINTE CHURCH PURPOSE IF WE ONLY DEVOTE
OURSELVES TO OURSELVES
WE WILL ULTIMATELY HAVE NOTHING BUT
OURSELVES TO SHOW FOR OURSELVES.
__________________
THE REWARD OF PURPOSE IF YOU DEVOTE
YOURSELF TO MORE THAN YOURSELF
YOU WILL ULTIMATLEY HAVE MORE THAN
YOURSELF TO SHOW FOR YOURSELF.
__________________
CHURCH PURPOSE QUESTION HOW WOULD GOD
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
THE CHURCH’S PURPOSE?
__________________
CHURCH WOULD HAVE TO HAVE… • BONDING WORSHIP – LOVE GOD
• PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS – LOVE PEOPLE
• HEALING SKILLS – GROWING IN LOVE
• VOLUNTEER STAFFING – LOVE WITH GIFTS & TALENTS
• INVITING OUTSIDERS – NEW EXPERIENCES IN LOVE
__________________
GREAT COMMANDMENT / COMMISSION… MATTHEW 28:19-20 NKJV [Jesus said] “‘You shall LOVE the LORD your GOD with all your heart, …soul, and …mind.’ … “And [the second greatest command is] like it:” 'You shall LOVE your NEIGHBOR as YOURSELF.' 40 "On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
MATTHEW 22:37-40 NKJV "Go …MAKE DISCIPLES of all the nations, BAPTIZING THEM in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE all things that I have commanded you;…
-
“…teaching them to observe…” – HEALING SKILLS
-
“…Love your neighbor as yourself…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
-
“…Love the LORD your God…” – BONDING WORSHIP
-
“…baptizing them…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
-
“…go and make disciples…” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
__________________
HOW THE EARLY CHURCH SAW PURPOSE… ACTS 2:42-47 NIV They DEVOTED THEMSELVES to the APOSTLES' TEACHING and to FELLOWSHIP, to the BREAKING OF BREAD and to PRAYER. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed …. 45 They sold property and possessions TO GIVE TO ANYONE who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ATE TOGETHER with glad and sincere hearts, 47 PRAISING GOD and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord ADDED TO THEIR NUMBER daily those who were BEING SAVED.
-
“…devoted to apostle’s teachings…” – HEALING SKILLS
-
“…devoted to fellowship…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
-
“…devoted to prayers… praising God” – BONDING WORSHIP
-
“…gave to anyone who had need…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
-
“…added to their number daily… saved” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
__________________
HOW THE APOSTLE PAUL SAW PURPOSE… COLOSSIANS 1:28-29 [Paul said] We PROCLAIM Jesus, ADMONISHING and TEACHING everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone PERFECT in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with ALL ENERGY, which so powerfully works in me.
-
“We proclaim Jesus…” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
-
“…admonishing…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
-
“…teaching everyone…” – HEALING SKILLS
-
“…present everyone perfect in Christ…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
-
“…labor…with all energy” – BONDING WORSHIP
__________________
LIFEPOINTE’S PURPOSE EXPRESSION…
• BONDING WORSHIP – SUNDAY WORSHIP / FIREPITS
• PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS – GROUPS / RETREATS
• HEALING SKILLS – WORKSHOPS / RETREATS
• VOLUNTEER STAFFING – SERVE TEAMS / TITHING
• INVITING OUTSIDERS – SUNDAY EXPERIENCES / INVITES
__________________
IT IS UP TO YOU! GOD CAN
ONLY PROMOTE
WHERE WE ALL ARE
WILLING TO DEVOTE!
__________________
WHAT IF WE ALL… WHAT IF WE ALL
DEVOTED OUR LOVE WITH TIME, TALENT, TREASURE AND TUNING FOR
SUNDAYS
GROUPS
WORKSHOPS / RETREATS
TEAMS
__________________
QUOTE – POPEYES The point of PURPOSE
is to determine how you will SERVE others.
If you don’t plan to SERVE,
you don’t need a PURPOSE.
Cheryl Bachelder – Dare to Serve – CEO of Popeyes
__________________
QUOTE – TOM RHODES It’s DIFFICULT just to go back
to a NORMAL EVERYDAY SUNDAY
once you’ve tasted PURPOSE.
- Tom Rhodes
__________________
BABY STEPS TO PURPOSE 1. LOOK AT EVERYTHING THRU THE LENS OF MEANS.
-
FIND A KINGDOM NEED AND SERVE THERE.
-
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PURPOSE-PEOPLE.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF
WHEN YOU THINK OF
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH?
_____________________
WHAT you think about
WHEN you think about
GOD, LIFE and CHURCH
will DEFINE EVERYTHING else
ABOUT YOU!
_____________________
WHAT SHOULD WE THINK OF
WHEN YOU THINK OF
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH?
LOOK FIRST AT JESUS!
_____________________
LUKE 4:16–21 TPT JESUS read where it is written (in Isaiah), “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, and he has ANOINTED me to be… FREEDOM for the BROKENHEARTED, and NEW EYES for …Then he added, “These Scriptures CAME TRUE TODAY in front of you.”
EPHESIANS 5:25, 27, 29-30, 32 NKJV – [The Apostle Paul said] …CHRIST also LOVED the CHURCH and gave Himself for her, ... 27 that He might present her to Himself a GLORIOUS [endoxon] CHURCH, NOT having SPOT or WRINKLE or any such thing, but that she should be HOLY and WITHOUT BLEMISH. ... 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but NOURISHES and CHERISHES it, just as the LORD [DOES] THE CHURCH. 30 For WE ARE MEMBERS of His BODY, of HIS FLESH and of HIS BONES. ... 32 This is a GREAT MYSTERY, but I speak concerning CHRIST and the CHURCH.
_____________________
HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN? LOVE HAS THE UNIQUE ABILITY
TO HEAL OUR BROKEN HEARTS!
_____________________
YOU CAN KNOW
THE CONCEPT OF LOVE
AND NEVER EXPERIENCE
LOVE’S TRANSFORMATIONAL HEALING!
_____________________
QUESTION: IS IT POSSIBLE TO ORGANIZE FOR LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
CHURCH - (The Ekklesia ) CHURCH IS AN“ASSEMBLY”
A MOVEMENT OF PEOPLE IN DYNAMIC, INTERDEPENDENT, AND TRANSPARENT RELATIONSHIPS,
FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING TRANSFORMATIONAL LOVE EXPERIENCES!
OR
CHURCH IS A BUNCH OF LOVING FRIENDS
WHERE WE GIVE EACH OTHER MIRACLE-HEALING EXPERIENCES!
_____________________
QUESTION: HOW WOULD GOD
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
CHURCH FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL
LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
QUESTION: HOW WOULD YOU
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
CHURCH FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL
LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
IT WOULD HAVE TO HAVE… * BONDING WORSHIP – LOVE GOD * PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS – LOVE PEOPLE * HEALING SKILLS – GROWING IN LOVE * VOLUNTEER STAFFING – LOVE WITH GIFTS & TALENTS * INVITING OUTSIDERS – NEW EXPERIENCES IN LOVE
_____________________
HOW THE EARLY CHURCH SAW IT… ACTS 2:42-47 NIV They DEVOTED THEMSELVES to the APOSTLES' TEACHING and to FELLOWSHIP, to the BREAKING OF BREAD and to PRAYER. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed …. 45 They sold property and possessions TO GIVE TO ANYONE who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ATE TOGETHER with glad and sincere hearts, 47 PRAISING GOD and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord ADDED TO THEIR NUMBER daily those who were BEING SAVED.
- “…devoted to apostle’s teachings…” – HEALING SKILLS
- “…devoted to fellowship…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
- “…devoted to prayers… praising God” – BONDING WORSHIP
- “…gave to anyone who had need…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
- “…added to their number daily… saved” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
_____________________
HOW THE APOSTLE PAUL SAW IT… [Paul said] We PROCLAIM Jesus, ADMONISHING and TEACHING everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone PERFECT in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with ALL ENERGY, which so powerfully works in me.
- “We proclaim Jesus…” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
- “…admonishing…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
- “…teaching everyone…” – HEALING SKILLS
- “…present everyone perfect in Christ…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
- “…labor…with all energy” – BONDING WORSHIP
_____________________
QUESTION: HOW WOULD YOU
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
CHURCH FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL
LOVE EXPERIENCES?
IT WOULD HAVE TO HAVE…
- BONDING WORSHIP – SUNDAY WORSHIP / FIREPITS
- PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS – GROUPS / RETREATS
- HEALING SKILLS – WORKSHOPS / RETREATS
- VOLUNTEER STAFFING – SERVE TEAMS / TITHING
- INVITING OUTSIDERS – SUNDAY EXPERIENCES / INVITES
_____________________
IT IS UP TO YOU! GOD CAN
ONLY PROMOTE
WHERE WE ALL ARE
WILLING TO DEVOTE!
_____________________
WHAT IF WE ALL DEVOTED OUR LOVE WITH TIME, TALENT, TREASURE AND TUNING FOR… SUNDAYS
GROUPS
WORKSHOPS / RETREATS
TEAMS
2020 LIFE & CHURCH REIMAGINED 2020 will bring vision and clarity! Decades ago, futurists predicted what the world would look like in this milestone-year in human history. They said we would have self-driving cars, vote electronically from home, depression would be a primary disease, people would live on mars, and that we would work 26 hours a week. Some predictions were spot-on, while others have alluded us. Some of us dreamed of “Jetson’s” lifestyles with robot-maids and travel by spaceships. What will be your 2020 predictions for marriage, parenting, business, and church? Will you be happy this year? Where will you be by the end of this decade? Will the derailing compulsions, addictions and unhealthy patterns still haunt you? As a church, what will be the future? Will we reimagine God’s kingdom in church community? Will we find peace, joy and fulfillment? Will we see ourselves with a futuristic clarity? This year will be the beginning of something special!
TODAY’S MESSAGE WHAT DO YOU THINK OF
WHEN YOU THINK OF
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH?
_____________________
WHAT you think about
WHEN you think about
GOD, LIFE and CHURCH
will DEFINE EVERYTHING else
ABOUT YOU!
_____________________
WHAT SHOULD WE THINK OF
WHEN YOU THINK OF
GOD, LIFE AND CHURCH?
LOOK FIRST AT JESUS!
_____________________
LUKE 4:16–21 TPT JESUS read where it is written (in Isaiah), “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, and he has ANOINTED me to be… FREEDOM for the BROKENHEARTED, and NEW EYES for …Then he added, “These Scriptures CAME TRUE TODAY in front of you.”
ISAIAH 61:3, 7 TPT 3 …to STRENGTHEN those CRUSHED BY DESPAIR who MOURN … to give them a BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET in the place of ASHES, the OIL OF BLISS instead of TEARS, and the mantle of JOYOUS PRAISE instead of the spirit of HEAVINESS. …7 Because you received a DOUBLE DOSE OF SHAME AND DISHONOR, you will inherit a DOUBLE PORTION OF ENDLESS JOY AND EVERLASTING BLISS!
_____________________
HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN? 1 JOHN 4:17-19 NKJV LOVE has been perfected among us in this: that we may have BOLDNESS (parresias) in the day of JUDGMENT (krisis); because as He is, so are we in this world. 18 There is NO FEAR in LOVE; but PERFECT (teleios - integrity or integrated – wanting nothing to feel enough) LOVE casts out FEAR, because FEAR INVOLVES TORMENT. But he who FEARS has NOT been made PERFECT IN LOVE. 19 We LOVE Him because He first LOVED us.
- BOLDNESS – Parresias – To speak openly and confidently without fear of embarrassment, retaliation or exploitation – to be fully seen in one’s beliefs.
- JUDGEMENT - KRISIS - a condition of instability or danger, as in social, economic, political, or international affairs, leading to a decisive change.
- FEAR – PHOBOS – Plato used as “one concerned with future events” or “concerns with one’s reputation”
_____________________
LOVE HAS THE UNIQUE ABILITY
TO HEAL OUR BROKEN HEARTS!
_____________________
YOU CAN KNOW
THE CONCEPT OF LOVE
AND NEVER EXPERIENCE
LOVE’S TRANSFORMATIONAL HEALING!
_____________________
JOHN 3:16-17 NKJV [Jesus said] For God so LOVED the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that WHOEVER BELIEVES in Him should NOT PERISH but have EVERLASTING LIFE.
JOHN 17:20-23 NKJV [Jesus said] I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; 21 that they all may be ONE, as You, Father, [are] in Me, and I in You; that they also may be ONE in Us, THAT THE WORLD MAY BELIEVE that You sent Me. 22 And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be ONE just as We are ONE: 23 I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made PERFECT in ONE, and THAT THE WORLD MAY KNOW that You have sent Me, and have LOVED them as You have LOVED Me.
_____________________
QUESTION: IS IT POSSIBLE TO INSTITUTIONALIZE LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
INSTITUTIONALIZE A group of people established and devoted to the promotion of a particular cause!
_____________________
MATTHEW 16:18-19 NLT (Jesus said) Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means 'rock'), and upon this rock I WILL BUILD my CHURCH, and all the POWERS OF HELL WILL NOT CONQUER IT.
_____________________
CHURCH - (The Ekklesia ) CHURCH IS AN“ASSEMBLY”
A MOVEMENT OF PEOPLE IN DYNAMIC, INTERDEPENDENT, AND TRANSPARENT RELATIONSHIPS,
FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING TRANSFORMATIONAL LOVE EXPERIENCES!
_____________________
QUESTION: HOW WOULD GOD
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
CHURCH FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL
LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
QUESTION: HOW WOULD YOU
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
CHURCH FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL
LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
IT WOULD HAVE TO HAVE… * BONDING WORSHIP – LOVE GOD * PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS – LOVE PEOPLE * HEALING SKILLS – GROWING IN LOVE * VOLUNTEER STAFFING – LOVE WITH GIFTS & TALENTS * INVITING OUTSIDERS – NEW EXPERIENCES IN LOVE
_____________________
HOW THE EARLY CHURCH SAW IT… ACTS 2:42-47 NIV They DEVOTED THEMSELVES to the APOSTLES' TEACHING and to FELLOWSHIP, to the BREAKING OF BREAD and to PRAYER. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed …. 45 They sold property and possessions TO GIVE TO ANYONE who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ATE TOGETHER with glad and sincere hearts, 47 PRAISING GOD and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord ADDED TO THEIR NUMBER daily those who were BEING SAVED.
- “…added to their number daily… saved” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
- “…devoted to fellowship…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
- “…devoted to apostle’s teachings…” – EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
- “…gave to anyone who had need…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
- “…devoted to prayers… praising God” – BONDING WORSHIP
_____________________
HOW THE APOSTLE PAUL SAW IT… [Paul said] We PROCLAIM Jesus, ADMONISHING and TEACHING everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone PERFECT in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with ALL ENERGY, which so powerfully works in me.
- “We proclaim Jesus…” – INVITING OUTSIDERS
- “…admonishing…” – PROCESS RELATIONSHIPS
- “…teaching everyone…” – HEALING SKILLS
- “…present everyone perfect in Christ…” – VOLUNTEER STAFFING
- “…labor…with all energy” – BONDING WORSHIP
_____________________
QUESTION: HOW WOULD YOU
ORGANIZE AND/OR PROGRAM
CHURCH FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL
LOVE EXPERIENCES?
_____________________
IT IS UP TO YOU! GOD CAN
ONLY PROMOTE
WHERE WE ALL ARE
WILLING TO DEVOTE!
_____________________
WHAT IF WE ALL DEVOTED OUR LOVE WITH TIME, TALENT, TREASURE AND TUNING FOR… SUNDAYS
GROUPS
WORKSHOPS / RETREATS
TEAMS
2020 LIFE & CHURCH REIMAGINED 2020 will bring vision and clarity! Decades ago, futurists predicted what the world would look like in this milestone-year in human history. They said we would have self-driving cars, vote electronically from home, depression would be a primary disease, people would live on mars, and that we would work 26 hours a week. Some predictions were spot-on, while others have alluded us. Some of us dreamed of “Jetson’s” lifestyles with robot-maids and travel by spaceships. What will be your 2020 predictions for marriage, parenting, business, and church? Will you be happy this year? Where will you be by the end of this decade? Will the derailing compulsions, addictions and unhealthy patterns still haunt you? As a church, what will be the future? Will we reimagine God’s kingdom in church community? Will we find peace, joy and fulfillment? Will we see ourselves with a futuristic clarity? This year will be the beginning of something special!
2020 LIFE & CHURCH REIMAGINED 2020 will bring vision and clarity! Decades ago, futurists predicted what the world would look like in this milestone-year in human history. They said we would have self-driving cars, vote electronically from home, depression would be a primary disease, people would live on mars, and that we would work 26 hours a week. Some predictions were spot-on, while others have alluded us. Some of us dreamed of “Jetson’s” lifestyles with robot-maids and travel by spaceships. What will be your 2020 predictions for marriage, parenting, business, and church? Will you be happy this year? Where will you be by the end of this decade? Will the derailing compulsions, addictions and unhealthy patterns still haunt you? As a church, what will be the future? Will we reimagine God’s kingdom in church community? Will we find peace, joy and fulfillment? Will we see ourselves with a futuristic clarity? This year will be the beginning of something special!
2020 LIFE & CHURCH REIMAGINED 2020 will bring vision and clarity! Decades ago, futurists predicted what the world would look like in this milestone-year in human history. They said we would have self-driving cars, vote electronically from home, depression would be a primary disease, people would live on mars, and that we would work 26 hours a week. Some predictions were spot-on, while others have alluded us. Some of us dreamed of “Jetson’s” lifestyles with robot-maids and travel by spaceships. What will be your 2020 predictions for marriage, parenting, business, and church? Will you be happy this year? Where will you be by the end of this decade? Will the derailing compulsions, addictions and unhealthy patterns still haunt you? As a church, what will be the future? Will we reimagine God’s kingdom in church community? Will we find peace, joy and fulfillment? Will we see ourselves with a futuristic clarity? This year will be the beginning of something special!
A CHRISTMAS STORY Christmas is finally here! Christ followers everywhere will gather to remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus. So what is up with the Christmas story. Everybody has seen the Nativity scene. There is a donkey, a shepherd, a few sheep, 3 kings, a treasure chest, Daddy Joseph, Mama Mary, and baby Jesus in a cradle-nest made of tree branches. Oh, and don’t forget the barn that looks like a thatch bus stop. What does it mean? Are the stories behind the story interesting? Does any of it matter?
The Biblical Christmas story is like watching a mystery theater; every scene has a twist. As this puzzling drama unfolds, the characters emerge with fascinating pasts. They are players injected into God’s plan to solve the suffering of the ages. This suspenseful piecing together of the Nativity’s characters and circumstances makes the birth of Jesus a thriller, leaving each of us a newfound purpose and power to make a difference. In A Christmas Story, we shift our eyes from surface ideas of the manger to reveal God’s ultimate masterpiece of Redemption.
LUKE 2:1-20 NKJV And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in SWADDLING cloths, and laid Him in a MANGER, because there was no room for them in the INN (guest chamber). 8 Now there were in the same country SHEPHERDS living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an ANGEL of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the SIGN TO YOU: You will find a Babe wrapped in SWADDLING CLOTHS, 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, goodwill toward men!” 15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
PROPHECIES * 40 AUTHORS * 1,500 YEARS * 66 BOOKS * 1,000+ PROPHECIES * 300+ MESSIANIC PROPHECIES
PROPHECIES – THE ODDS * KILLED BY LIGHTNING STRIKE (2x107) * BECOMING PRESIDENT (1x107) * METEORITE LAND ON HOUSE (1x1014) * 8 MESSIANIC PROPHECIES FULFILLED (1x1028)
OUTLINE NOTES * PROPHICIES * JOSEPH * MARY * MARY AND JOSEPH * BETHLEHEM * SHEPHERDS * JERUSALEM – TEMPLE BABY DEDICATION * MAGI * KING HEROD * MAGI * JESUS * YOU
1 JOHN 4:17 NKJV Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because AS JESUS CHRIST IS, SO ARE WE in this world.
CALL TO ACTION What is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
SHARE THE CHRISTMAS STORY!
TODAY’S MESSAGE 1 JOHN 2:20, 27 NKJV But you have an ANOINTING from the Holy One, and you know all things. ... 27 But the ANOINTING which you have received from Him ABIDES IN YOU … and you will ABIDE IN HIM.
Anointing = “rub on or pour over,” or SOAKED!!
ANOINTED WITH WHAT? LUKE 4:18 NKJV (Jesus said) The SPIRIT OF THE LORD [is] upon Me, because He has ANOINTED Me…
ACTS 10:38 NKJV (Peter said) … how God ANOINTED Jesus of Nazareth WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT and WITH POWER, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
The presence of God – His Spirit –
is rubbed on, poured over and abides in the believer!
JOHN 16:7; 14:16-20 NKJV [Jesus said] …It is to YOUR ADVANTAGE that I go away; for if I do not go away, THE HELPER will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.14:16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another HELPER (Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby) , that He may ABIDE WITH YOU FOREVER-- 17 the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees HIM nor knows HIM; but you know HIM, for HE dwells WITH YOU and will be IN YOU.
ACTS 1:8 NKJV [Jesus said] But YOU shall RECEIVE POWER when the HOLY SPIRIT has COME UPON YOU; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
ANOINTED WITH WHAT AND FOR WHAT? * POWER TO SAY THINGS * POWER TO KNOW THINGS * POWER TO DO THINGS
1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11 NKJV But the MANIFESTATION OF THE [HOLY] SPIRIT is given to each one for the PROFIT OF ALL.
- MANIFESTATION – to cause something to be fully known; exhibition; expression.
- PROFIT OF ALL – to bring together so as to make beautiful; symphony; harmony.
PROFIT * Husband / Wife * Parent * Christian Witness * Negotiator * Employee * Supervisor * Friend * Teacher * Student * Church Leader * Church Volunteer * Evangelist
1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11 NKJV 8 for to one is given the WORD of WISDOM through the Spirit, to another the WORD of KNOWLEDGE through the same Spirit, 9 to another (SPECIAL) FAITH by the same Spirit, to another GIFTS of HEALINGS by the same Spirit, 10 to another the working of MIRACLES, to another PROPHECY, to another DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, to another different kinds of TONGUES, to another the INTERPRETATION of tongues.
HOW DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT MANIFEST? POWER TO SAY THINGS
- Prophecy
- Different Kinds (Unknown) Tongues (Languages)
- Interpretation of Tongues (Languages)
POWER TO KNOW THINGS
- Word of Wisdom
- Word of Knowledge
- Discerning of Spirits
POWER TO DO THINGS
- Special Faith
- Gifts of Healings
- Working of Miracles
POWER TO KNOW THINGS * Word of Wisdom - The supernatural ability to gain INSIGHT, PERCEPTION, or INWARD KNOWING - of certain facts in the mind of God, pertaining to issues that are PAST or PRESENT, and that you would not have any other way of knowing. * Word of Knowledge - The supernatural ability to receive a revelation of God’s WISDOM, PURPOSE and DIRECTION in a situation and relates to FUTURE issues. and that you would not have any other way of knowing. * Discerning of Spirits – The supernatural ability to SEE INTO THE SPIRIT REALM, enabling you to RECOGNIZE if something is DIVINE, HUMAN or SATANIC.
+ *This is not “discernment” of people’s thoughts, motives, attitudes or condition.*
POWER TO DO THINGS * Special Faith - The supernatural ability to BELIEVE God’s promises in an EXTRAORDINARY WAY, never doubting but remaining confident of God’s provision and protection regardless of insurmountable obstacles, and BEYOND HUMAN EFFORT.
+ *This is beyond “normal Christian faith” that we demonstrate in our everyday life of faith.*
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Gifts of Healings - The supernatural ability to be God’s supernatural and miraculous intermediary for CURING people WITHOUT the use of NATURAL MEANS.
- This is not to be confused with natural medical sciences, procedures or discoveries.
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Working of Miracles - The supernatural ability to PERFORM INTERVENTIONS, which are perceived by observers to have NO BASIS IN THE ORDINARY COURSE OF NATURE, so as to glorify God and prove that He is real.
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This is not to be confused with idly standing by as we watch a miracle; it is the “working” of miracles
1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11 NKJV 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually AS HE WILLS (as he determines – NIV).
HOW DO I INCREASE THESE MANIFESTATIONS? * DESIRE earnestly spiritual gifts * ACTIVATIONS OF FAITH is required * Energized by LOVE
1 CORINTHIANS 12:31; 1 Corinthians 14:1 NKJV [Paul said] EARNESTLY DESIRE the BEST GIFTS… 14:1 Pursue love, and DESIRE SPIRITUAL [GIFTS], but ESPECIALLY that you may PROPHESY.
ROMANS 12:6 NKJV Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, [let us use them]: if PROPHECY, [let us PROPHESY] in proportion to our FAITH.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:31; 1 Corinthians 14:1 NKJV [Paul said] earnestly desire the best gifts… 14:1 Pursue LOVE, and desire SPIRITUAL [GIFTS], but ESPECIALLY that you may PROPHESY.
WHAT IF … NEXT 21 DAYS? HOLY SPIRIT WORKSHOP
Pointe.info/workshops
TODAY’S MESSAGE 1 JOHN 2:20, 27 NKJV But you have an ANOINTING from the Holy One, and you know all things. ... 27 But the ANOINTING which you have received from Him ABIDES IN YOU … and you will ABIDE IN HIM.
Anointing = “rub on or pour over,” or SOAKED!!
ANOINTED WITH WHAT? LUKE 4:18 NKJV (Jesus said) The SPIRIT OF THE LORD [is] upon Me, because He has ANOINTED Me…
ACTS 10:38 NKJV (Peter said) … how God ANOINTED Jesus of Nazareth WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT and WITH POWER, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
The presence of God – His Spirit –
is rubbed on, poured over and abides in the believer!
JOHN 16:7; 14:16-20 NKJV [Jesus said] …It is to YOUR ADVANTAGE that I go away; for if I do not go away, THE HELPER will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.14:16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another HELPER (Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby) , that He may ABIDE WITH YOU FOREVER-- 17 the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees HIM nor knows HIM; but you know HIM, for HE dwells WITH YOU and will be IN YOU.
ACTS 1:8 NKJV [Jesus said] But YOU shall RECEIVE POWER when the HOLY SPIRIT has COME UPON YOU; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
ANOINTED WITH WHAT AND FOR WHAT? * POWER TO SAY THINGS * POWER TO KNOW THINGS * POWER TO DO THINGS
1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11 NKJV But the MANIFESTATION OF THE [HOLY] SPIRIT is given to each one for the PROFIT OF ALL.
- MANIFESTATION – to cause something to be fully known; exhibition; expression.
- PROFIT OF ALL – to bring together so as to make beautiful; symphony; harmony.
PROFIT * Husband / Wife * Parent * Christian Witness * Negotiator * Employee * Supervisor * Friend * Teacher * Student * Church Leader * Church Volunteer * Evangelist
1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11 NKJV 8 for to one is given the WORD of WISDOM through the Spirit, to another the WORD of KNOWLEDGE through the same Spirit, 9 to another (SPECIAL) FAITH by the same Spirit, to another GIFTS of HEALINGS by the same Spirit, 10 to another the working of MIRACLES, to another PROPHECY, to another DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, to another different kinds of TONGUES, to another the INTERPRETATION of tongues.
HOW DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT MANIFEST? POWER TO SAY THINGS
- Prophecy
- Different kinds (unknown) tongues (languages)
- Interpretation of tongues (languages)
POWER TO KNOW THINGS
- Word of wisdom
- Word of knowledge
- Discerning of spirits
POWER TO DO THinGS
- Special faith
- Gifts of healings
- Working of miracles
1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11 NKJV 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually AS HE WILLS (as he determines – NIV).
PROPHECY 1 CORINTHIANS 14:3 NKJV But he who PROPHESIES speaks EDIFICATION and EXHORTATION and COMFORT to men.
- PROPHECY — the ability to communicate truth through inspired speech (in a timely and relevant manner for strengthening, encouragement and comfort)
TONGUES & INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES 1 CORINTHIANS 12:10 NKJV …to another PROPHECY, …to another different kinds of TONGUES, to another the INTERPRETATION of tongues.
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TONGUES — the ability to speak a spontaneous message from God, in a language you do not know, to a person or group of people
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INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES — the ability to interpret a message of one who is speaking in miracle tongues into the language of the listeners as a message from God.
NUANCES OF TONGUES AND INTERPRETATION * The GIFT OF TONGUES is for outward ministry, not private devotions. * The GIFT OF INTERPRETATION is not a translation.
HOW DO I INCREASE THESE MANIFESTATIONS? * DESIRE earnestly spiritual gifts * ACTIVATIONS OF FAITH is required * Energized by LOVE
1 CORINTHIANS 12:31; 1 Corinthians 14:1 NKJV [Paul said] EARNESTLY DESIRE the BEST GIFTS… 14:1 Pursue love, and DESIRE SPIRITUAL [GIFTS], but ESPECIALLY that you may PROPHESY.
ROMANS 12:6 NKJV Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, [let us use them]: if PROPHECY, [let us PROPHESY] in proportion to our FAITH.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:31; 1 Corinthians 14:1 NKJV [Paul said] earnestly desire the best gifts… 14:1 Pursue LOVE, and desire SPIRITUAL [GIFTS], but ESPECIALLY that you may PROPHESY.
WHAT IF … NEXT 21 DAYS? HOLY SPIRIT WORKSHOP
Pointe.info/workshops
DEVOTIONAL TONGUES? BEGIN HERE
Pointe.info/Tongues
SPECIAL GUEST ERRON MERCER Erron Mercer was born in 1974 with Cerebral Palsy a debilitating disease that effects the brain, nervous system, and muscles. In fighting his handicap Erron has been though many surgeries, procedures, rehab centers, and hospitals, but that is not the end of the story…
Erron has spent his life bringing inspiration and hope to anyone who would listen. Taking his can’t be stopped attitude to Churches, Hospitals, Schools, Nursing Homes, Civic Organizations (Such as The United Way, Special Olympics, and The MDA) Middle Schools, Retirement Communities, Political Rallies, High Schools, and College Campuses.
His approach in ministry can be summed up in one word--creativity. If you are looking for a bland, ordinary, run-of-the-mill speaker, you're looking in the wrong place! Erron's creative style of ministry connects with people and ignites them in their walk with God. Erron believes "Thou Shall Not Be Boring" should be the 11th commandment. This motivates him to continually seek the Lord for new and creative ideas to reach people with the good news.
He has been married to his wife, Sonia, since 1998 and they have two boys, Blaze and Creed.
Erron loves Dutch Chocolate Bluebell Ice Cream and spending time with his family.
**ERRON MERCER SCRIPTURES:** **JOHN 11:1-3 MSG** *A man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. This was the same Mary who massaged the Lord’s feet with aromatic oils and then wiped them with her hair. It was her brother Lazarus who was sick. So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Master, the one you love so very much is sick.”*
JOHN 11:17-20 MSG When Jesus finally got there, he found Lazarus already four days dead. Bethany was near Jerusalem, only a couple of miles away, and many of the Jews were visiting Martha and Mary, sympathizing with them over their brother. Martha heard Jesus was coming and went out to meet him. Mary remained in the house.
JOHN 11:25-26 MSG (Jesus said) “You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all. Do you believe this?”
JOHN 11:29-32 MSG The moment she heard that, she jumped up and ran out to him. Jesus had not yet entered the town but was still at the place where Martha had met him. When her sympathizing Jewish friends saw Mary run off, they followed her, thinking she was on her way to the tomb to weep there. Mary came to where Jesus was waiting and fell at his feet, saying, “Master, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
LUKE 10:40-42 TPT But Martha became exasperated by finishing the numerous household chores in preparation for her guests, so she interrupted Jesus and said, “Lord, don’t you think it’s unfair that my sister left me to do all the work by myself? You should tell her to get up and help me.” The Lord answered her, “Martha, my beloved Martha. Why are you upset and troubled, pulled away by all these many distractions? Are they really that important? Mary has discovered the one thing most important by choosing to sit at my feet. She is undistracted, and I won’t take this privilege from her.”
SOAKED Jesus has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us. However, Christians talk about feeling the presence of God versus not feeling the presence of God. What does this mean? To further extend the idea, Jesus talks about a concept called “the anointing.” The word “anointing” refers to God’s Spirit and means He will “rub on or pour over” us with powerful presence. In this new series SOAKED we will discover practical applications of God’s present anointing, what it is and how to activate it at home, in relationships, for breakthrough and so much more. We will see how there are nine different expressions, or manifestations, that God desires to express in our daily lives. Yet, God wants us to be sober, in knowing we have responsibility to activate; and activation is not about moral or hyper-spiritual standards. Anybody and everybody can access this amazing place with God. You aren’t going to want to miss a Sunday. Invite a friend and come see us!
A relationship that is not experienced is really not a relationship at all! Let's take a dive in the deep end and get soaked.
TODAY’S MESSAGE 1 JOHN 2:20, 27 NKJV But you have an ANOINTING from the Holy One, and you know all things. ... 27 But the ANOINTING which you have received from Him ABIDES IN YOU … and you will ABIDE IN HIM.
Anointing = “rub on or pour over”
ANOINTED WITH WHAT? LUKE 4:18 NKJV (Jesus said) The SPIRIT OF THE LORD [is] upon Me, because He has ANOINTED Me…
ACTS 10:38 NKJV (Peter said) … how God ANOINTED Jesus of Nazareth WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT and WITH POWER, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
The presence of God – His Spirit –
is rubbed on, poured over and abides in the believer!
- The Supreme Ruler Over All (Sovereign)
- Present Everywhere (Omnipresent)
- All-Knowing (Omniscient)
- All-Powerful (Omnipotent)
- Unchanging (Immutable)
- Unlimited (Infinite)
- The Source of All FUTURE Things (Providential)
- The Source of ALL CREATED Things (Creator)
- Indestructible Life (Incorruptible)
- Unique In Every Way (Incomparable)
- Capable of Being Known (Knowable)
- Gracious (Empowering)
- Passionate/Affectionate In Attachment (Love/Mercy)
- Extensive In Pleasure and Delight (Joy)
- Contented Wholeness and Prosperity (Peace)
- Unrelenting In Lavish Care (Patience)
- Generous Hearted (Kind)
- Good (Benevolent)
- Tender Hearted (Meek)
- Invested in Relationships (Interpersonal)
- Overwhelmingly Rich in Character (Glorious)
THE INCREDIBLE VALUE OF GOD WITH US! HEBREWS 13:5-6 NKJV …for God Himself has said, "I will NEVER LEAVE YOU nor FORSAKE YOU." 6 So we may BOLDLY say: "The LORD [is] my helper; I WILL NOT FEAR. What can man do to me?"
JOHN 16:6-7 NKJV [Jesus said] But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to YOUR ADVANTAGE that I go away; for if I do not go away, THE HELPER will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.
JOHN 14:16-20 NKJV [Jesus said] And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another HELPER (Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby) , that He may ABIDE WITH YOU FOREVER-- 17 the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees HIM nor knows HIM; but you know HIM, for HE dwells WITH YOU and will be IN YOU.
1 JOHN 4:4 NKJV You are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because GREATER IS HE THAT IS IN YOU, than he that is in the world.
2 CORINTHIANS 6:16 NKJV And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will DWELL IN them and WALK AMONG [them] (KJV “IN THEM”). I will be their God, And they shall be My people."
OLD TESTAMENT VERSUS NEW TESTAMENT ANOINTING MATTHEW 27:51 NKJV Then, behold, the VEIL OF THE TEMPLE was TORN IN TWO from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split…
1 CORINTHIANS 6:19 NKJV [Paul said] Or do you not know that YOUR BODY is the TEMPLE of the HOLY SPIRIT [who is] IN YOU, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
1 CORINTHIANS 6:19 AMP Do you not know that your body is the TEMPLE (THE VERY SANCTUARY) of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God? You are not your own,
FILLED WITH ALL THE FULNESS OF GOD! EPHESIANS 3:19 AMP [That you may really come] to know [practically, THROUGH EXPERIENCE for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [WITHOUT EXPERIENCE]; that you may be FILLED [through all your being] unto ALL THE FULLNESS OF GOD [may have the RICHEST MEASURE OF THE DIVINE PRESENCE, and become A BODY WHOLLY FILLED AND FLOODED WITH GOD HIMSELF]!
IF WE ARE ANOINTED, THEN WHY? * Why do we pray for God to be “with us?” * Why do we pray for God to “visit us?” * Why do we pray for God to “come by here, Lord, come by here?” * Why do we pray for power? * Why do we pray for God to “touch us?” * Why do we pray God would “revive us?”
IF THIS IS TRUE – WHY DO I FEEL LIKE I’M DISTANT (WILDERNESS)? 1. We must BELIEVE FIRST, not experience first 2. We ACTIVATE the brain’s “experience” CIRCUITS
- Imagine and arouse feelings of His acceptance
- Imagine and arouse feelings of His delights
- Imagine and arouse feelings of shamelessness
- Imagine and arouse feelings of wisdom
- Imagine and arouse feelings of power
WHAT IF … NEXT 21 DAYS
HOLY SPIRIT WORKSHOP
Pointe.info/workshops
KINGS AND KINGDOMS Why do bad things happen to good people? If God is loving, why is human suffering possible? Does the weight of a great life fall on God’s sovereign control, or are there human factors involved too? In this preaching series, KINGS AND KINGDOMS, we will explore how God has delegated to individual believers a kingship, with responsibility to understand the principles that make the kingdom thrive. We will learn how to engage spiritual authority, how to defuse the emotional shame that drives a king to live like an indigent, and ultimately how to live like God’s royal people. If you have ever had questions of why “God let this happen,” you will find nurture, freedom and a deep sense of security from this series.
ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
CONSIDER THE QUESTION: If God delegated His rule on earth to His people,
and His people are delinquent to those responsibilities,
how much pain and sorrow have we unduly endured?
How much of our understanding of God has been skewed?
WHAT IS SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY? The responsibility to rightfully govern and enforce justice.
WHAT DO WE HAVE AUTHORITY OVER? 1. DEMONS
2. SICKNESS & DISEASE
3. NATURAL RESOURCES (BREAD, FISH, WINE, FINANCES)
4. INANIMATE OJBECTS (FIG TREE)
5. PHYSICAL THREATS (TERROR, NATURAL DISASTERS)
6. ANYTHING WE ARE REDEEMED FROM (DUET 28)
PREVIOUS WEEKS: 1. God’s Practical Sovereignty (Sept 8)
2. The Origins of Evil (Sept 15)
3. The Nature of Process Laws (Sept 22)
4. Activating Spiritual Authority (Sept 29)
5. The Authority in Declarations and Decrees (Oct 6)
6. The Authority in the Name of Jesus (Oct 20)
pointe.info/sermons-archives
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES AUTHORITY BY THE HOLY SPIRIT’S ANOINTING! DOES EVERY CHRISTIAN POSSESS
THE RIGHT AND PRIVILEGE
OF SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY?
ACTS 1:8 NKJV (Jesus said) But you shall receive POWER when the HOLY SPIRIT has come UPON YOU; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
THERE IS A DEFINITE RELATIONSHIP
BETWEEN AUTHORITY AND POWER.
_______________________________
POWER WITHOUT AUTHORITY PRODUCES CHAOS.
AUTHORITY WITHOUT POWER IS USELESS.
JESUS AND THE HOLY SPIRIT POWER LUKE 4:16-21 NKJV And when Jesus had opened the book [of Isaiah], He found the place where it was written: 18 "The SPIRIT OF THE LORD [is] UPON ME, Because He has ANOINTED ME To PREACH the gospel to [the] poor; He has sent Me to HEAL the brokenhearted, To PROCLAIM LIBERTY to [the] captives And RECOVERY of sight to [the] blind, To SET AT LIBERTY those who are oppressed; 19 To PROCLAIM THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD." 20 Then He closed the book, and gave [it] back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing."
ACTS 10:38 NKJV (Peter preached) …how God ANOINTED Jesus of Nazareth with the HOLY SPIRIT and with POWER, who went about DOING GOOD and HEALING all who were OPPRESSED by the devil, for GOD WAS WITH HIM.
JOHN 14:9-18 AMP Jesus replied, …10 What I am telling you I do not say on MY OWN AUTHORITY and of My own accord; but the Father Who lives continually in Me does the (His) WORKS (His own MIRACLES, DEEDS OF POWER). 11… [If you cannot trust Me, at least let THESE WORKS THAT I DO IN MY FATHER’S NAME convince you.] 12 I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself BE ABLE TO DO THE THINGS THAT I DO; and he will do EVEN GREATER THINGS than these, because I go to the Father. 13 And I will do [I Myself will grant] whatever you ASK IN MY NAME [as presenting all that I Am], so that the Father may be glorified and extolled in (through) the Son. 14 [Yes] I will grant [I Myself will do for you] WHATEVER YOU SHALL ASK IN MY NAME [as presenting all that I Am]. … 16 And I will ask the FATHER, and He will give you another COMFORTER (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, and Standby), that He may remain with you forever— 17 THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, Whom the world cannot receive (welcome, take to its heart), because it does not see Him or know and recognize Him. But you know and recognize Him, for HE LIVES WITH YOU [constantly] and WILL BE IN YOU. 18 I will not leave you as orphans [comfortless, desolate, bereaved, forlorn, helpless]; I will come [back] to you.
ACTS 1:8; ACTS 2:1-4 NKJV (Jesus said) But you shall receive POWER when the HOLY SPIRIT has come UPON YOU; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. 2:1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and [one] sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
WE ARE ANOINTED 2 CORINTHIANS 1:21 NKJV Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has ANOINTED US [is] God…
1 JOHN 2:20 NKJV But YOU have an ANOINTING from the Holy One, and you know all things.
WHEN TO ACTIVATE THE ANOINTING ALL PRAYER
(FOR ANYTHING – FOOD TO INTERCESSIONS)
DECLARING/DECREEING AUTHORITY OVER ANYTHING
(THE DEVIL)
(CIRCUMSTANCES)
(RESOURCES)
(MIRACLES)
CHRISTIANS, THE LEAST TO THE GREATEST,
HAVE THE RIGHT AND THE PRIVILEGES
TO ACTIVATE THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT?
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
CONSIDER THE QUESTION: If God delegated His rule on earth to His people,
and His people are delinquent to those responsibilities,
how much pain and sorrow have we unduly endured?
How much of our understanding of God has been skewed?
WHAT IS SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY? The responsibility to rightfully govern and enforce justice.
WHAT DO WE HAVE AUTHORITY OVER? 1. DEMONS
2. SICKNESS & DISEASE
3. NATURAL RESOURCES (BREAD, FISH, WINE, FINANCES)
4. INANIMATE OJBECTS (FIG TREE)
5. PHYSICAL THREATS (TERROR, NATURAL DISASTERS)
6. ANYTHING WE ARE REDEEMED FROM (DUET 28)
PREVIOUS WEEKS: 1. God’s Practical Sovereignty (Sept 8)
2. The Origins of Evil (Sept 15)
3. The Nature of Process Laws (Sept 22)
4. Activating Spiritual Authority (Sept 29)
5. The Authority in Declarations and Decrees (Oct 6)
pointe.info/sermons-archives
TODAY: THE POWER OF THE NAME OF JESUS! COLOSSIANS 3:17 NKJV And WHATEVER YOU DO in word or deed, [DO] ALL IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN,
“TO DO ALL IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS?”
__________
TO DO ALL UNDER AND WITH THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS!
DOES EVERY CHRISTIAN POSSESS
THE RIGHT AND PRIVILEGE
OF SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY?
ACTS 2:16, 21 NKJV (Peter said) But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: ... 21 And it shall come to pass [That] WHOEVER calls on the NAME OF THE LORD Shall be SAVED.'
JOHN 14:9-18 AMP Jesus replied, …10 What I am telling you I do not say on MY OWN AUTHORITY and of My own accord; but the Father Who lives continually in Me does the (His) WORKS (His own MIRACLES, DEEDS OF POWER). 11… [If you cannot trust Me, at least let THESE WORKS THAT I DO IN MY FATHER’S NAME convince you.] 12 I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself BE ABLE TO DO THE THINGS THAT I DO; and he will do EVEN GREATER THINGS than these, because I go to the Father. 13 And I will do [I Myself will grant] whatever you ASK IN MY NAME [as presenting all that I Am], so that the Father may be glorified and extolled in (through) the Son. 14 [Yes] I will grant [I Myself will do for you] WHATEVER YOU SHALL ASK IN MY NAME [as presenting all that I Am].
MARK 16:15-20 NKJV And He (Jesus) said to them, "GO into all the world and preach the gospel … 17 "And THESE SIGNS will follow those who believe: In MY NAME they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 "they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."
ACTS 3:2, 6-8, 11-12, 16 NKJV And a certain MAN LAME from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; ... 6 Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the NAME OF JESUS CHRIST of Nazareth, RISE UP AND WALK." 7 And he took him by the right hand and lifted [him] up, and immediately his FEET AND ANKLE BONES RECEIVED STRENGTH. 8 So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them--walking, leaping, and praising God. ... 11 Now as the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch which is called Solomon's, greatly amazed. 12 So when Peter saw [it], he responded to the people: "Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently AT US, as though by OUR OWN POWER or GODLINESS we had made this man walk? ... 16 "And HIS NAME, through FAITH IN HIS NAME, has MADE THIS MAN STRONG, whom you see and know.
- They preached in the name of Jesus. (Acts 5:40; 9:27)
- They led people to Christ’s salvation through the name of Jesus (Acts 4:12)
- They were baptized in the name of Jesus (Acts2:38; 8:16; 19:5)
- They were filled with the Spirit in the name of Jesus (Mark 16:17, 18)
- They healed the sick in the name of Jesus (Acts 3:6)
- They had signs and wonders in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:30)
- They cast out devils in the name of Jesus (Acts 16:18)
- They risked their lives for the name of Jesus (Acts 15:26; 21:13 )
- They made the name of Jesus famous (Acts 19:17)
WHEN TO USE THE JESUS NAME! ALL PRAYER
(FOR ANYTHING – FOOD TO INTERCESSIONS)
______________
DECLARING/DECREEING AUTHORITY OVER ANYTHING
(THE DEVIL)
(CIRCUMSTANCES)
(RESOURCES)
(MIRACLES)
CHRISTIANS, THE LEAST TO THE GREATEST,
HAVE THE RIGHTS AND THE PRIVILEGES
TO USE THE NAME OF JESUS!
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
CONSIDER THE QUESTION: If God delegated His rule on earth to His people,
and His people are delinquent to those responsibilities,
how much pain and sorrow have we unduly endured?
How much of our understanding of God has been skewed?
WHAT IS SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY? The responsibility to rightfully govern and enforce justice.
WHAT DO WE HAVE AUTHORITY OVER? Ask the question, “What did Jesus demonstrate authority over?”
- DEMONS
- SICKNESS & DISEASE
- NATURAL RESOURCES (BREAD, FISH, WINE, FINANCES)
- INANIMATE OJBECTS (FIG TREE)
- PHYSICAL THREATS (TERROR, NATURAL DISASTERS)
- ANYTHING WE ARE REDEEMED FROM (DUET 28)
PREVIOUS WEEKS: 1. God’s Practical Sovereignty (Sept 8) 2. The Origins of Evil (Sept 15) 3. The Nature of Process Laws (Sept 22) 4. Activating Spiritual Authority (Sept 29)
pointe.info/sermons-archives
TODAY: WHY AFFIRMATIONS, DECLARATIONS AND DECREES MATTER
QUESTION: ARE WE JUST SAYING POSITIVE THINGS, OR IS THERE MORE TO IT?
WHEN GOD AFFIRMS – DECLARES – DECREES PSALM 148:1-6 NKJV Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; Praise Him in the heights! 2 Praise Him, all His angels; Praise Him, all His hosts! 3 Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all you stars of light! 4 Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, and you waters above the heavens! 5 Let them praise the name of the Lord, for He COMMANDED and they were CREATED. 6 He also ESTABLISHED them forever and ever; He made a DECREE which shall not pass away.
GOD’S DECLARATIONS ARE ACTIVATORS HEBREWS 11:3 NKJV By FAITH we understand that the WORLDS WERE FRAMED by the WORD OF GOD, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
- Gen 1:3 AND GOD SAID, Let there be light: (KJV)
- Gen 1:6 AND GOD SAID, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters (KJV)
- Gen 1:9 AND GOD SAID, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together (KJV)
- Gen 1:11 AND GOD SAID, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed (KJV)
- Gen 1:14 AND GOD SAID, Let there be lights in the firmament of the (KJV)
- Gen 1:20 AND GOD SAID, Let the waters bring forth…the moving creature (KJV)
- Gen 1:24 AND GOD SAID, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind (KJV)
- Gen 1:26 AND GOD SAID, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness (KJV)
- Gen 1:28 AND GOD SAID unto them, Be fruitful, multiply, and replenish the earth (KJV)
- Gen 1:29 AND GOD SAID, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed (KJV)
JOHN 1:1, 14 NKJV In the beginning was THE WORD, and THE WORD was with God, and THE WORD WAS GOD. ... 14 And THE WORD BECAME FLESH and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
GOD’S THRONE – GOD’S WORD PSALM 103:19-22 NKJV The Lord has ESTABLISHED HIS THRONE in heaven, and HIS KINGDOM RULES over ALL. 20 Bless the Lord, you His ANGELS, Who excel in strength, WHO DO HIS WORD, heeding the VOICE OF HIS WORD. 21 Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, you [angel] ministers of His, who do His pleasure. 22 Bless the Lord, all His works, in all PLACES OF HIS DOMINION.
GOD’S WORD IN HUMAN MOUTHS JEREMIAH 1:4-12 NKJV Then the WORD OF THE LORD came to me, saying: 5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” 6 Then said I: “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.” 7 But the Lord said to me: “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and WHATEVER I COMMAND YOU, YOU SHALL SPEAK. 8 Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to DELIVER YOU,” says the Lord.9 Then the Lord put forth His hand and TOUCHED MY MOUTH, and the Lord said to me: “Behold, I have put MY WORDS IN YOUR MOUTH. 10 See, I have this day set you OVER THE NATIONS and OVER THE KINGDOMS, to ROOT OUT and to PULL DOWN, to DESTROY and to THROW DOWN, to BUILD and to PLANT.” …12 Then the Lord said to me, “You have seen well, for I am ready to PERFORM MY WORD.”
- AMPLIFIED VERSION - Then said the Lord to me, You have seen well, for I AM ALERT AND ACTIVE, WATCHING OVER MY WORD TO PERFORM IT.
OTHER EXAMPLES: * MOSES – “I will be with your mouth…” (Ex 4:10-17) * EZEKIEL – “Eat this scroll… speak with my words…” (Ez 3:1-27) * ISAIAH – “I have put my words in your mouth…” (Is 51:15-16) * JESUS – “I will put my words in his mouth…” (Deut 18:18-19) * PROPHETS – “God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets…” (Acts 3:18-21)
RESISTING GOD’S SPIRIT ACTS 7:51 NKJV [Stephen said] (You) STIFF-NECKED and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always RESIST THE HOLY SPIRIT; as your fathers [did], so [do] you.
ACTIVATING SALVATION ROMANS 10:8-17 NKJV But what does it say? "THE WORD is near you, in YOUR MOUTH and in your heart" (that is, THE WORD of faith which we preach): 9 that if you CONFESS with YOUR MOUTH the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be SAVED.
CONFIRMING THE WORD MARK 16:15-20 NKJV And He (Jesus) said to them, "GO into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature… 17 "And THESE SIGNS will follow those who believe… 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, the LORD WORKING WITH [THEM] and CONFIRMING THE WORD through the accompanying SIGNS.
WHAT IF… THE NEXT 21 DAYS… DECLARATIONS PDF DOWNLOAD https://app.box.com/v/declare
SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY WORKSHOP Pointe.info/authority-full-workshop
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES HOW TO ACTIVATE SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
IF GOD IS
ALL-GOOD & ALL-POWERFUL,
AND WE ARE KINGS,
WHY _____________?
LAST WEEK:
WHY DOESN’T
GOD INTERVENE???
THE ANSWER COMES BY UNDERSTANDING
- God’s Practical Sovereignty
- The Origins of Evil
- God’s Process Laws
WHAT ARE PROCESS LAWS?
A series of events that takes place in any
given circumstance with unvarying uniformity.
PROCESS LAWS
- Gravity
- Lift
- Electromagnetism
- Thermodynamics
- Biogenesis
- Chemistry
- Planetary Motion
- Mathematics
- Logic
- Uniformity of Nature
INTELLIGENT DESIGN & PROCESS LAWS
- Organized
- Structured
- Systematic
- Ordered
- Harmonized
- Standardized
- Precise
- Interpretive
- Methodic
- Predictable
- Accurate
- Definite
- Concrete
- Observable
- Analytical
- Scientific
BUT… WHY DOESN’T GOD INTERVENE???
- God designed the universe so that even DIVINE MIRACLES WOULD BE EXPERIENCED through the predictable and organized execution, or management, of SPIRITUAL PROCESS LAWS
- FREE CREATURES are FREE to be IGNORANT, DISREGARD or FAIL TO ACCURATELY EXECUTE spiritual process laws, removing the probability of miracle-intervention
- Miracle interventions are therefore CATEGORICALLY IMPERSONAL and INDEPENDENT of any INTERPRETATION OF GOD’S ACTUAL WILL and LOVE for His free creatures, removing the possibility of God’s negligence
- The GODHEAD is CATEGORICALLY PERSONAL, providing HELP, GUIDANCE & SUPPORT for human execution of miracle interventions
SPIRITUAL PROCESS LAWS
- Unresolved Sin
- Low Word Feeding
- Pride
- Unforgiveness
- Bitterness
- Wrong Motives
- Bad Attitudes
- Rage / Criticism
- Lack of Honor (Spouses)
- Sowing / Reaping (Sparing)
- Disobedience to Generosity (Tithe – 10%)
- Inattention to God's Spirit
- Lack of Serving God's Kingdom
- Lack Seeking God's Kingdom
- 5-Sense Domination
- Unbelieving Talk
HOW TO ACTIVATE SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY 1. HEART
-
BELIEVE
-
DECLARE
MATTERS OF THE HEART PROVERBS 4:23 AMP KEEP and GUARD your HEART with all vigilance and above all that you guard, FOR OUT OF IT FLOW THE SPRINGS OF LIFE.
FAITH IS A RECEIVER MARK 11:22-24 NKJV So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have FAITH in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not DOUBT in his HEART, but BELIEVES that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, BELIEVE that you RECEIVE [them], and you will have [them].’”
JAMES 1:5-7 NKJV If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally … and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in FAITH, with no doubting, ... 7 For let not that man suppose that he will RECEIVE anything from the Lord;
- “[Blood flow] Daughter, your FAITH has made you well.” (MARK 5:34)
- “[Lepers], your FAITH has made you well.” (LUKE 17:19)
- “[Bartemeaus], your FAITH has made you well.” (MARK 10:52)
- “[Blind] According to your FAITH let it be to you.” (MATTHEW 9:29)
- “[Paralyzed] When Jesus saw their FAITH…” (LUKE 5:20)
- “[Epilepsy] If you can BELIEVE, all things are possible...” (MARK 9:23)
- “[Paralyzed] As you have BELIEVED, so be it done to you.” (MATTHEW 8:13)
-
“[Son Died] The man BELIEVED the word that Jesus spoke...” (MARK 5:34)
-
“[Sick] The prayer of FAITH will save the sick, and … will raise him up.” (JAMES 5:14)
- “[Failed Deliverance] Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, ‘WHY COULD WE NOT CAST IT OUT?’ 20 So Jesus said to them, ‘BECAUSE OF YOUR UNBELIEF.’”
- “[Fear of Storm] But Jesus said to them, "WHERE IS YOUR FAITH?" And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, "Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!” (LUKE 8:25 NKJV)
- “Now JESUS COULD DO NO MIGHTY (MIRACLE) WORK THERE, except that He laid His hands on A FEW SICK people and HEALED [THEM]. 6 And He marveled because of their UNBELIEF.” [“Jesus did not many might (miracle) works there BECAUSE of their UNBELIEF”] (MARK 6:5-6 NKJV; MATTHEW 13:58)
DECLARATIONS ARE ACTIVATORS MARK 11:22-24 NKJV So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have FAITH in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever SAYS to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not DOUBT in his HEART, but BELIEVES that those things he SAYS will be done, he will have whatever he SAYS. 24 THEREFORE I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, BELIEVE that you RECEIVE [them], and you will have [them].’”
2 CORINTHIANS 4:13 NKJV And since we have the same SPIRIT OF FAITH, according to what is written, "I BELIEVED and therefore I SPOKE," we also BELIEVE and therefore SPEAK…
HEBREWS 11:3 NKJV By FAITH we understand that the WORLDS WERE FRAMED by the WORD OF GOD, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
DECLARATIONS ARE ACTIVATORS * Gen 1:3 AND GOD SAID, Let there be light: (KJV) * Gen 1:6 AND GOD SAID, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters (KJV) * Gen 1:9 AND GOD SAID, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together (KJV) * Gen 1:11 AND GOD SAID, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed (KJV) * Gen 1:14 AND GOD SAID, Let there be lights in the firmament of the (KJV) * Gen 1:20 AND GOD SAID, Let the waters bring forth…the moving creature (KJV) * Gen 1:24 AND GOD SAID, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind (KJV) * Gen 1:26 AND GOD SAID, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness (KJV) * Gen 1:28 AND GOD SAID unto them, Be fruitful, multiply, and replenish the earth (KJV) * Gen 1:29 AND GOD SAID, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed (KJV)
RYAN NUZZO STORY John Nuzzo Story - Ryan Nuzzo Confessions
Pointe.info/ryan-nuzzo
WHAT IF… THE NEXT 21 DAYS… DECLARATIONS PDF - download
https://app.box.com/v/declare
ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
IF GOD IS SOVEREIGN, AND WE ARE KINGS, WHY…? THE ANSWER COMES UNDERSTANDING TWO THINGS 1. God’s Sovereignty (Last Week) 2. The Origins of Evil (Today)
BUT… WHY DOESN’T GOD INTERVENE??? PROBLEM TO OVERCOME 1. God CAN intervene (All-Powerful) 2. God SHOULD intervene (Redemption) 3. YET, miracle prayer is many times WITHOUT A MIRACLE
CREATION & PROCESS LAWS GENESIS 1:1 NKJV In the beginning God created the HEAVENS and the EARTH.
ROMANS 1:20 NLT For ever since the world was created, people have seen the EARTH and SKY. Through everything God made, they can CLEARLY SEE his invisible QUALITIES--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have NO EXCUSE for NOT KNOWING GOD.
NATURAL (GENERAL) REVELATION
Knowledge about God and spiritual matters, discovered through natural means, such as observation of nature (the physical universe), philosophy and reasoning.
SPECIFIC REVELATION
Knowledge of God discovered through the highest authority and inerrancy of divine scriptures.
ALL TRUTH IS GOD’S TRUTH
“I hold to the classical Christian view of the relationship between GENERAL revelation and SPECIAL revelation, and the thesis that no truth of any kind can be discovered apart from God’s revelation. With Augustine, Aquinas, and all of orthodox Christianity, I believe that all truth is God’s truth.”
Dr. R.C. Sproul, Reformed Theologian and Philosopher
WHAT IS A PROCESS LAW?
A series of events that takes place
in any given circumstance with unvarying uniformity.
- Gravity
- Lift
- Electromagnetism
- Thermodynamics
- Biogenesis
- Chemistry
- Planetary Motion
- Mathematics
- Logic
- Uniformity of Nature
INTELLIGENT DESIGN & PROCESS LAWS
- Organized
- Structured
- Systematic
- Ordered
- Harmonized
- Standardized
- Precise
- Interpretive
- Methodic
- Predictable
- Accurate
- Definite
- Concrete
- Observable
- Analytical
- Scientific
"The greatest scientists have been struck by how strange this is. There is no logical necessity for a universe that obeys rules, let alone one that abides by the rules of mathematics. This astonishment springs from the recognition that the universe doesn't have to behave this way. It is easy to imagine a universe in which conditions change unpredictably from instant to instant, or even a universe in which things pop in and out of existence.”
Dinesh D'Souza, What's So Great about Christianity
”A law of physics is a pattern that nature obeys without exception."
Sean Carroll, Cosmologist at California Institute of Technology, quoted by the New York Times, nytimes.com; 2007
"Why nature is mathematical is a mystery...The fact that there are rules at all is a kind of miracle."
Richard Feynman, The Meaning of It All: Thoughts of a Citizen-Scientist, Nobel Prize winner for quantum electrodynamics
"...to be a scientist, you had to have faith that the universe is governed by dependable, immutable, absolute, universal, mathematical laws of an unspecified origin. You've got to believe that these laws won't fail, that we won't wake up tomorrow to find heat flowing from cold to hot, or the speed of light changing by the hour. Over the years I have often asked my physicist colleagues why the laws of physics are what they are? ...The favorite reply is, 'There is no reason they are what they are--they just are.'"
Paul C. Davies, Physicist, Cosmologist, & astrobiologist at Arizona State University, quoted in edge.org/3rd_culture/davies07/davies07_index.html
THE EARTH & PROCESS LAWS
- Sized Smaller – Atmosphere Impossible
- Sized Larger – Atmosphere contain free hydrogen
- Fractionally Further from Sun – We would freeze
- Fractionally Closer to Sun – We would burn up
- Moon’s Perfect Distance – Gravitational pull
- Earth Rotations – Predictably every 24 hours
"One of the most important numbers in physics, the proton-electron mass ratio, is the same in a galaxy six billion light years away as it is here on Earth, according to new research, laying to rest debate about whether the laws of nature vary in different places in the Universe."
Dr. Emily Baldwin, Earth's Laws Still Apply in Distant Universe
HUMAN EYE - The eye distinguishes over 7 million colors. It automatically focuses on over 1.5 million messages.
DNA - DNA is made up of four chemicals that scientists abbreviate as A, T, G, and C. They are arranged in the human cell like this: CGTGTGACTCGCTCCTGAT and so on. There are three billion of these letters in every human cell. DNA is a three-billion-lettered program telling the cell to act in a certain way. It is a full instruction manual.
BUT… WHY DOESN’T GOD INTERVENE??? 1. God designed the the universe so that even DIVINE MIRACLES WOULD BE EXPERIENCED through the predictable and organized execution, or management, of SPIRITUAL PROCESS LAWS 2. FREE CREATURES are FREE to be IGNORANT, DISREGARD or FAIL TO ACCURATELY EXECUTE spiritual process laws, removing the probability of miracle-intervention 3. Miracle interventions are therefore CATEGORICALLY IMPERSONAL and INDEPENDENT of any INTERPRETATION OF GOD’S ACTUAL WILL and LOVE for His free creatures, removing the possibility of God’s negligence 4. The GODHEAD is CATEGORICALLY PERSONAL, providing HELP, GUIDANCE & SUPPORT for human execution of miracle interventions
TRUTH & PROCESS LAWS
JOHN 8:32 NKJV And you shall KNOW the TRUTH, and the TRUTH shall MAKE you FREE.
SPIRITUAL PROCESS LAWS
- Unresolved Sin
- Low Word Feeding
- Pride
- Unforgiveness
- Bitterness
- Wrong Motives
- Bad Attitudes
- Rage / Criticism
- Lack of Honor (Spouses)
- Sowing / Reaping (Sparing)
- Disobedience to Generosity (Tithe – 10%)
- Inattention to God's Spirit
- Lack of Serving God's Kingdom
- Lack Seeking God's Kingdom
- 5-Sense Domination
- Unbelieving Talk
- Etc.
WHAT ARE SOME
SCRIPTURE EXAMPLES OF
SPIRITUAL PROCESS LAWS?
CHURCH TITHING – 10% GIVING
MALACHI 3:9-12 NIV You are under a curse-the whole nation of you-because YOU ARE ROBBING ME. 10 Bring the whole TITHE into the storehouse…Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that YOU WILL NOT HAVE ROOM ENOUGH FOR IT. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty.
CHURCH MATERIAL GENEROSITY
2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-8 NIV [Remember] this: he who SOWS SPARINGLY and grudgingly will also REAP SPARINGLY and grudgingly, and he who SOWS GENEROUSLY that blessings may come to someone] will also REAP GENEROUSLY and with blessings. …8 And God is able to make ALL GRACE (EVERY FAVOR and EARTHLY BLESSING) come to you in ABUNDANCE, so that you may ALWAYS and under ALL circumstances and WHATEVER the need be SELF-SUFFICIENT…
IGNORANCE OF GOD’S WORD
HOSEA 4:6 NKJV MY people are DESTROYED for LACK OF KNOWLEDGE. Because you have REJECTED KNOWLEDGE…
BINGEING IN GOD’S WORD
JOHN 8:31-32 NKJV Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you ABIDE in MY WORD, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall KNOW THE TRUTH, and the TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE."
DISHONORING SPOUSES
1 PETER 3:7 AMP In the same way you MARRIED MEN should live CONSIDERATELY WITH [YOUR WIVES], with an intelligent recognition [of the marriage relation], HONORING THE WOMAN as [physically] the weaker, but [realizing that you] are joint heirs of the grace (God's unmerited favor) of life, IN ORDER THAT YOUR PRAYERS MAY NOT BE HINDERED AND CUT OFF. [Otherwise you cannot pray effectively.]
IT’S NOT ABOUT PERFORMANCE,
OR MERITS, BEFORE GOD;
IT IS ABOUT PROCESS LAWS!
WHAT WILL YOU ALLOW? MATTHEW 18:18 CEV [Jesus said] I promise you that GOD in heaven WILL ALLOW WHATEVER YOU ALLOW on earth, but HE WILL NOT ALLOW anything YOU DON'T ALLOW.
WHAT ABOUT THE SCRIPTURES WHERE GOD IS CURSING PEOPLE WITH SUFFERING? PERMISSIVE VERBS
DEUTERONOMY 28:15, 20, 22 KJV But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God …that all these CURSES shall come upon thee, and overtake thee: ... 20 The LORD SHALL SEND upon thee CURSING, VEXATION, and REBUKE, in all that thou settest thine hand unto for to do, UNTIL THOU BE DESTROYED…; because of the wickedness of thy doings, whereby thou hast forsaken me. ... 22 The LORD shall SMITE thee with a CONSUMPTION, and with a FEVER, … they shall pursue thee UNTIL THOU PERISH.
WHAT NOW??? 1. EVALUATE your trust in God 2. ACKNOWLEDGE your relationship to spiritual process laws 3. ACTIVATE to God’s process laws
KINGS AND KINGDOMS Why do bad things happen to good people? If God is loving, why is human suffering possible? Does the weight of a great life fall on God’s sovereign control, or are there human factors involved too? In this preaching series, KINGS AND KINGDOMS, we will explore how God has delegated to individual believers a kingship, with responsibility to understand the principles that make the kingdom thrive. We will learn how to engage spiritual authority, how to defuse the emotional shame that drives a king to live like an indigent, and ultimately how to live like God’s royal people. If you have ever had questions of why “God let this happen,” you will find nurture, freedom and a deep sense of security from this series.
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
IF GOD IS SOVEREIGN,
AND WE ARE KINGS,
WHY…?
THE ANSWER COMES UNDERSTANDING TWO THINGS 1. God’s Sovereignty (Last Week) 2. The Origins of Evil (Today)
CHARLES TEMPLETON After reading an issue of LIFE magazine and seeing a photo of an anguished mother clutching her dead infant in drought-ravaged Africa.
“I thought, ‘Is it possible to believe that there is a loving or caring Creator when all this woman needed was rain?’ How could a loving God do this to that woman? Who runs the rain? I don’t; you don’t. HE does – or that’s what I thought. But when I saw that photograph, I immediately knew it is not possible for this to happen and for there to be a loving God. There was no way. Who else but a fiend could destroy a baby and virtually kill its’ mother with agony – when all that was needed was rain?...and I began…considering the plagues that sweep across parts of the planet and indiscriminately kill…and it just became crystal clear to me that it is not possible for an intelligent person to believe that there is a deity who loves.” (Page 42, Case for Faith – Lee Strobel)
WHEN WE BELIEVE GOD IS CULPABLE * Erodes EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENT & personal closeness to God * Wires you with REACTIVE ANGER towards God, causing you to FIGHT God, AVOID God or simply SHUT DOWN in your relationship with God * Position you as an EMOTIONAL VICTIM in life, DISEMPOWERING your ability to move forward. [If God is against you, or allowing the enemy to thrive, what hope do you have?] * Compel you to DECONSTRUCT your belief in God altogether
WHY WOULD WE PROFILE GOD AS PUNITIVE? 1. We are emotional beings with survival instincts 2. Our brains try to make sense of suffering 3. Placing blame gives an illusion of power to protect 4. God is the most convenient target of blame, others are second 5. We hope discovering the purposed-meaning will make us whole again 6. We have been taught bad theology, so it is what it is 7. We don’t know how to deal with problem Scripture texts
THE ORIGIN OF EVIL – PROBLEM TO OVERCOME 1. God CAN destroy evil (All-Powerful) 2. God SHOULD destroy evil (Loving & Good) 3. YET, evil IS in this world
THE ORIGIN OF EVIL – HOW IT HAPPENED 1. God is absolutely perfect! (Matt 5:48) 2. God created only perfect creatures! (Gen 1:26-31) 3. One of the perfections God gave some of His creatures was the power of free choice! (Gen 2:15-17) 4. Some of these creatures freely chose to do evil! (Gen 3) 5. Therefore, a perfect creature caused evil! (Rom 5:12)
HOW FREE WILL CAUSES EVIL * Some of our suffering is brought on DIRECTLY by our own free choice. The choice to abuse my body can result in sickness. * Some of our suffering is brought on INDIRECTLY by our own free choice. The choice to be lazy can result in poverty. * Some physical EVIL TO OTHERS can result DIRECTLY from our free choice, as in the case of spouse or child abuse. * Others suffer INDIRECTLY because of our free choice. Alcoholism can lead to poverty of one’s children. * Some NATURAL-PHYSICAL evil may be a NECESSARY BY-PRODUCT of a good process. Rain, hot air, & cool air are all necessary for food and life, but a by-product of these forces is a tornado. (Also consider, the earth fell under a curse at Adam and Eve’s disobedient “free choice” which gave rise to natural disasters)
WHY DOESN’T GOD DESTROY EVIL? 1. God cannot do what is actually self-contradictory (Round squares, colorless color, rock too big to move, cease to self-exist, make good into evil, cannot lie, cannot change, cannot make mistakes or do something stupid… like make a round square) 2. It is contradictory to destroy evil without destroying free choice 3. But free choice is necessary to a moral universe 4. God cannot destroy evil without destroying this good moral universe
IF GOD KNEW, THEN WHY… 1. God wanted a personal relationship with His created beings 2. A free world where no one sins may be conceivable but may not be achievable 3. Yet, at the end of all things God will have a free moral world where beings have chosen to surrender to Jesus and God’s Kingdom
MATTHEW 18:18 CEV [Jesus said] I promise you that GOD in heaven WILL ALLOW WHATEVER YOU ALLOW on earth, but HE WILL NOT ALLOW anything YOU DON'T ALLOW.
WHAT NOW??? 1. EVALUATE your trust in God 2. ACKNOWLEDGE your emotional resistance 3. SURRENDER to the REAL JESUS and GOD’S GOODNESS
NEXT SUNDAY MORNING! WHY DOESN’T GOD MIRACULOUSLY INTERVENE IN HUMAN SUFFERING?
Seek to know God’s organization, systems and process laws!
KINGS AND KINGDOMS Why do bad things happen to good people? If God is loving, why is human suffering possible? Does the weight of a great life fall on God’s sovereign control, or are there human factors involved too? In this preaching series, KINGS AND KINGDOMS, we will explore how God has delegated to individual believers a kingship, with responsibility to understand the principles that make the kingdom thrive. We will learn how to engage spiritual authority, how to defuse the emotional shame that drives a king to live like an indigent, and ultimately how to live like God’s royal people. If you have ever had questions of why “God let this happen,” you will find nurture, freedom and a deep sense of security from this series.
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
IF GOD IS SOVEREIGN,
AND WE ARE KINGS,
WHY…?
THE ANSWER COMES UNDERSTANDING TWO THINGS 1. God’s Sovereignty
2. The Nature of Evil
1 TIMOTHY 6:14-15 AMP [Timothy said] Keep all His precepts unsullied and flawless, irreproachable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Anointed One), Which [appearing] will be shown forth in His own proper time by the blessed, only SOVEREIGN (Ruler), the KING OF KINGS and the LORD OF LORDS…”
JOHN 8:32 NKJV [Jesus said] And you shall KNOW THE TRUTH, and the TRUTH shall MAKE YOU FREE.
THE POWER OF AN UNTRUTH 1. The truth you believe will make you free!
2. Partial truth is an untruth!
3. The untruths you believe will keep you bound!
STERILIZE THESE PARTIAL TRUTHS 1. God’s Sovereignty 2. The Nature of Evil
WHAT IS SOVEREIGNTY? Above or superior to all others;
independent of all others;
under no rule or law outside Himself.
GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY IS FIXED
WITH FINALITY IN REDEMPTION!
GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY IS EXPRESSED
WITH FINALITY IN GOD’S WORD!
PSALM 89:34 NKJV [God said] My COVENANT I will NOT BREAK, NOR ALTER the WORD that has gone out of My lips.
MALACHI 3:6 NKJV [God said] For I [am] the LORD, I DO NOT CHANGE.
ERRATIC SOVEREIGNTY
VERSUS
PREDICTABLE SOVEREIGNTY
GOD IS ONLY IN CONTROL
OF THE PART OF YOUR LIFE
YOU GIVE HIM CONTROL OF!!!!
DEUTERONOMY 30:19 NKJV [God said] I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, [that] I have SET BEFORE YOU life and death, BLESSING and CURSING; therefore CHOOSE LIFE, that both you and your descendants may live;
DEUTERONOMY 28:1-2 NKJV [God said] IF YOU diligently OBEY the voice of the LORD your God, to OBSERVE CAREFULLY all His COMMANDMENTS which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. 2 and all these BLESSINGS shall come upon you and overtake you, BECAUSE YOU OBEY the voice of the LORD your God:
DEUTERONOMY 28:15 NKJV BUT it shall come to pass, if you DO NOT OBEY the voice of the LORD your God, to OBSERVE CAREFULLY all His COMMANDMENTS and His statutes which I command you today, that all these CURSES will come upon you and overtake you:
HOW MARGINAL AND LOOSE
CAN WE GET
BEFORE WE GO TOO FAR?
MATTHEW 18:18 CEV [Jesus said] I promise you that God in heaven will ALLOW WHATEVER YOU ALLOW on earth, but HE WILL NOT ALLOW anything YOU DON'T ALLOW.
- JOSHUA 24:15 CHOOSE YOU this day who you are going to serve…
- ISAIAH 66:3 THEY HAVE CHOSEN their own ways…
- MATTHEW 16:24, 25 If any man WILL come after me…
- 2 PETER 3:5 They deliberately [WILLFULLY] FORGET [what God said]…
- JOHN 5:40 And you WILL NOT come to me, that you might have life.
IT’S NOT PERSONAL
AND GOD IS NOT TARGETING YOU.
IT’S SPIRITUAL LAW!
NEXT WEEK HOW EVIL HAPPENS!
SUNDAY JUNE 30 - FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like…
- “Is it wrong to go dancing?”
- “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”
- “Will we be married in heaven?”
- “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”
- “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?”
- “Is it OK to spank your kids?”
- “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?”
- “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?”
You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.
Q&A RULES: * The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH * Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit * Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY * If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION * Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!”
1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS 1. God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity 2. Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science 3. Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers 4. Moral Behavior & Sexuality
TODAYS MESSAGE - MORAL BEHAVIOR 1 - MORALITY & ETHICS - What is morality? DEFINITION
Principles concerning the distinction
between right and wrong or good and bad behavior.
TWO CATEGORIC VIEWS OF MORALITY
1. MORAL RELATIVISM
2. MORAL ABSOLUTISM
MORAL RELATIVISM:
The view that moral standards and judgments
are only relative to the subject opinion of the individual
and that no standpoint is privileged over all others.
MORAL ABSOLUTISM:
The view that there are
absolute standards and judgments that
universally apply to all people and cultures.
BOOK – CHRISTIAN ETHICS – NORMAN GEISLER
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2 - MORALITY & ETHICS - Can I participate in things that AREN’T EXPLICITLY “CHRISTIAN?” JAMES 4:4 NLT … Don't you realize that FRIENDSHIP with the WORLD makes you an enemy of God?
JAMES 4:17 ESV So whoever KNOWS THE RIGHT THING to do and FAILS TO DO IT, for him it is SIN.
8 FILTER QUESTIONS
- Does God clearly say you should or should not participate?
- Is it congruent with your values and life vision?
- Does it emotionally dysregulate you or diminish your love for Jesus?
- Does it infringe upon your conscience?
- Does it diminish your own story in Jesus?
- Does it compel “secrets” with those you trust?
- Does it open you to moral vulnerabilities?
- Would you like to see your Pastor/Pastor’s wife doing it?
_______________
3 - SANTA CLAUS – What should I tell my kids about Santa? _______________
4 - CURSING – What determines whether something is a curse word, since nowhere in the bible is there a list found of inappropriate words? MATTHEW 15:18-20 NKJV [Jesus said] But those things which proceed out of the MOUTH COME FROM the HEART, and they DEFILE a man. 19 For OUT OF THE HEART proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.
EPHESIANS 5:4 NIV [Paul said] Nor should there be OBSCENITY, FOOLISH TALK or COARSE JOKING, which are out of place, BUT RATHER THANKSGIVING.
EPHESIANS 4:29 NKJV [Paul said] Let NO CORRUPT WORD proceed out of your mouth, but what is GOOD for necessary EDIFICATION, that it may impart GRACE TO THE HEARERS.
_______________
5 - DEMON MOVIES - Is watching a show or movie with demons in it a sin. PROVERBS 4:23 NIV Above all else, GUARD your HEART, for everything you do flows from it.
2 PETER 2:7-8 NKJV [God] delivered righteous Lot, [who was] oppressed [VEXED] BY THE FILTHY CONDUCT of the wicked 8 (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, TORMENTED [HIS] RIGHTEOUS SOUL from day to day by seeing and hearing [their] lawless deeds)--
EPHESIANS 5:8-12 NIV For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have NOTHING TO DO with the fruitless deeds of DARKNESS, but rather expose them. 12 It is SHAMEFUL EVEN TO MENTION what the DISOBEDIENT DO IN SECRET.
_______________
6 - NATIONAL LAWS - Is it a sin to break NATIONAL LAWS LIKE SPEEDING? ROMANS 13:1-5 NKJV Let every soul be subject to the GOVERNING AUTHORITIES. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever RESISTS THE AUTHORITY resists the ORDINANCE OF GOD, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be UNAFRAID OF THE AUTHORITY? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to [execute] wrath on him who practices evil. 5 Therefore [you] must be subject, not only because of wrath but also FOR CONSCIENCE' SAKE.
QUESTIONS
- Does God care if I drive 56 MPH in a 55 SPEED ZONE?
- Does God care if I park for 1 MINUTE over my paid PARKING METER TIME?
- Does God care if eat 3 SAMPLE GRAPES at the grocery store, or are the 2 EXTRA “THEFT”?
FILTER QUESTIONS
- Is my heart in an ATTITUDE OF SUBMISSION?
- Am I predisposed to PAY THE PENALTY?
- Does it violate OTHER PEOPLE’S RIGHTS?
- Does it put OTHER PEOPLE IN DANGER?
- Does it VIOLATE “LOVE” with anyone, including police officers?
_______________
7 - DEPRESSION & MEDICATION - Is it wrong to take medication for depression/anxiety as a Christian? PROVERBS 17:22 NKJV A merry heart does good, [like] medicine…
Science of Freedom Workshop
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8 – YOGA & KARATE - Is it wrong to for a Christian to participate in yoga or martial arts? ROMANS 14:14 NIV As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that NO FOOD is UNCLEAN IN ITSELF. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then FOR HIM it is UNCLEAN.
_______________
9 - HOROSCOPES – Is it wrong for a Christian to read their HOROSCOPES or to go to PSYCHICS? ISAIAH 47:13-15 NIV…Let your ASTROLOGERS come forward, those STARGAZERS who make predictions MONTH BY MONTH…Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up…Each of them goes on in his ERROR…
DEUTERONOMY 18:10-12 NIV Let no one be found among who… who practices DIVINATION or SORCERY, interprets OMENS, engages in WITCHCRAFT, or CASTS SPELLS, or who is a MEDIUM or SPIRITIST or who CONSULTS THE DEAD. Anyone who does these things is DETESTABLE TO THE LORD…
ISAIAH 8:19 NIV When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists…SHOULD NOT A PEOPLE INQUIRE OF THEIR GOD?
SUNDAY JUNE 23 - FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like…
- “Is it wrong to go dancing?”
- “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”
- “Will we be married in heaven?”
- “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”
- “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?”
- “Is it OK to spank your kids?”
- “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?”
- “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?”
You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.
Q&A RULES: * The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH * Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit * Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY * If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION * Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!”
1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS 1. God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity 2. Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science 3. Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers 4. Moral Behavior & Sexuality
TODAYS MESSAGE - BIBLE INTERPRETATION, CHURCH COMMUNITY & RELATIONSHIPS WITH UNBELIEVERS QUESTIONS ABOUT WOMEN & LEADERSHIP 1. Can WOMEN LEAD in church (over men)? 2. Can WOMEN TEACH in church (to men)? 3. Can WOMEN be PASTORS?
1 CORINTHIANS 14:34-35 NKJV Let your WOMEN keep SILENT in the churches, for they are NOT PERMITTED TO SPEAK; but [they are] to be SUBMISSIVE, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is SHAMEFUL FOR WOMEN TO SPEAK in church.
1 TIMOTHY 2:11 NKJV Let a WOMAN LEARN IN SILENCE with all SUBMISSION. 12 And I DO NOT PERMIT a WOMAN to TEACH or to HAVE AUTHORITY OVER a man, but to BE IN SILENCE.
RELIGIOUS ASSUMPTIONS * WOMEN must SUBMIT to ALL men! * WOMEN can’t LEAD in CHURCH over men! * WOMEN can’t TEACH in CHURCH to men! * WOMEN must keep SILENT in the CHURCH!
-
WOMEN must SUBMIT to ALL men!
- Only CHRISTIAN men?
- What if the man VIOLATES BOUNDARIES?
- What if TWO men want CONFLICTING THINGS?
-
WOMEN can’t LEAD in CHURCH over men!
- Can they INFLUENCE?
- Can they LEAD SONS at HOME or even CHURCH?
- Is sharing CREATIVITY or ADMINISTRATION LEADING?
-
WOMEN can’t TEACH in CHURCH to men!
- Can they TEACH NON-RELIGIOUS things?
- Can they outside the CHURCH PROPERTY LINES?
- Can they teach KIDS CHURCH… to BOYS… and what if MEN are serving on the KIDS TEAM too?
- Can they be MISSIONARIES?
-
WOMEN must keep SILENT in the CHURCH!
- Can they GREET, PARK CARS, or KIDS CHURCH?
- Can they say “HI” to friends… even in the LOBBY?
- Can they SING during WORSHIP, or on STAGE, or PRAY?
- Can they LAUGH at the PASTOR’S JOKES?
__________
VIOLATED THE PRINCIPLE - WHAT ABOUT…. * DEBORAH (OT Prophet, Judge & Military Leader) * MIRIAM (OT Prophet to lead Israel out of Egypt) * HULDAH (OT Prophet & authorized Scripture) * PHEOBE (NT Deacon) * PRISCILLA (NT Teacher) * JUNIA (NT Apostle) * JEZEBEL (NT called herself a “Prophet” to seduce…) * NOADIAH, ANNA, RUTH, ESHTER, RIZPAH, FOUR DAUGHTERS OF PHILIP, RACHEL, HANNAH, ABIGAIL, ELISABETH, and MARY
__________
THE MAKING OF MISOGYNY * INTERNATIONAL HISTORY OF OPPRESSION * DIFFICULT SCRIPTURE TEXTS (PATRIARCHAL) * JEWISH TALMUD – BABYLON CAPTIVITY * JEWISH RABBINIC CULTURE (QUOTES) * CHURCH LEADER & JUDIAZER CULTURE (QUOTES)
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JESUS LEADS THE CHANGE * MARY & MARTHA * “BLESSED RATHER ARE THEY THAT HEAR THE WORD” * WOMAN AT THE WELL * WOMEN SUPPORTERS OF JESUS * JESUS REVEALED HIMSELF TO WOMEN FIRST (REZ) * NEW COVENANT EQUALITY * BEGINNING OF THE CHURCH AGE * LAUNCH OF WOMEN LEADERS & TEACHERS
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UNRAVELING THE DIFFICULT TEXTS 1 CORINTHIANS 14:34-35 NKJV Let your WOMEN keep SILENT in the churches, for they are NOT PERMITTED TO SPEAK; but [they are] to be SUBMISSIVE, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is SHAMEFUL FOR WOMEN TO SPEAK in church.
“NOW CONCERNING…” 1 CORINTHIANS
- 7:1 NKJV NOW CONCERNING THE THINGS OF WHICH YOU WROTE TO ME: [It is] good for a man not to touch a woman.
- 7:25 NKJV NOW CONCERNING virgins…
- 8:1 NKJV NOW CONCERNING things offered to idols…
- 12:1 NKJV NOW CONCERNING spiritual [gifts]…
- 16:1 NKJV NOW CONCERNING the collection for the saints…
__________
1 TIMOTHY 2:9-12 NKJV I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; 9 in like manner also, that the WOMEN adorn themselves in MODEST APPAREL, with PROPRIETY and MODERATION, not with BRAIDED HAIR or GOLD or PEARLS or COSTLY CLOTHING, 10 but, which is proper for WOMEN PROFESSING GODLINESS, with GOOD WORKS. 11 Let a WOMAN LEARN IN SILENCE with all SUBMISSION. 12 And I DO NOT PERMIT a WOMAN to TEACH or to HAVE AUTHORITY OVER a man, but to BE IN SILENCE.
1 TIMOTHY INTERPRETATION
- JUDIAZERS (Law and Jewish tradition first)
- GNOSTICS (Claimed secret knowledge)
- APHRODITE (CORINTH) & DIANA (EPHESUS)
- UNLEARNED & UNSKILLED IN THE WORD (1:1 & 2:11)
- SOME WERE NOT BELIEVERS (2:15 & 6:21)
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WOMEN PASTORS??? 1 TIMOTHY 3:2 NKJV A bishop then must be blameless, the HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach;
TITUS 1:5-7 NKJV …you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city … THE HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE…
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BOOK RECOMMENDATION WHO SAID WOMEN CAN’T TEACH – CHARLES TROMBLEY
FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like…
- “Is it wrong to go dancing?”
- “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”
- “Will we be married in heaven?”
- “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”
- “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?”
- “Is it OK to spank your kids?”
- “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?”
- “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?”
You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.
Q&A RULES: * The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH * Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit * Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY * If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION * Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!”
1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS 1. God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity 2. Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science 3. Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers 4. Moral Behavior & Sexuality
TODAYS MESSAGE - BIBLE INTERPRETATION, CHURCH COMMUNITY & RELATIONSHIPS WITH UNBELIEVERS 1. HEARING FROM GOD How do you know if something is really GOD’S LEADING or just YOUR OWN THOUGHTS?
FLUX CAPACITER FOR GUIDANCE
- Scriptural Authority
- “Seeking” Attitude
- Shepherd’s Counsel
- Stages: Ways, Paths & Steps
- Screen Promptings
CHECK IT OUT!
- mylifepointe.com/LISTEN
2. PENTECOSTAL LifePointe says it's a "non-denominational Christian Church," and yet it is PENTECOSTAL. What does this mean, and why does it play an important role at our church?
ACTS 2:1-4 KJV And when the DAY OF PENTECOST was fully come… 4 And they were all FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, and began to SPEAK WITH OTHER TONGUES, as the SPIRIT GAVE THEM UTTERANCE.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:1, 31 NKJV Now concerning SPIRITUAL [gifts] (things pertaining to and of the Holy Spirit), brethren, I do not want you to be IGNORANT: ... 31 But EARNESTLY DESIRE the best gifts…
1 CORINTHIANS 14:39-40 NKJV Therefore, brethren, DESIRE EARNESTLY to PROPHESY, and DO NOT FORBID to SPEAK WITH TONGUES. 40 Let all things be done DECENTLY and in ORDER.
CONSIDERATIONS
- We are commanded to DESIRE HOLY SPIRIT GIFTS
- Not one SCRIPTURE implies ANY MIRACLE GIFTS passed away, including DEVOTIONAL “TONGUES”
- Church history is FILLED with the CONTINUATION of “TONGUES”
- The HOLY SPIRIT and HIS GIFTS have radically impacted my EXPERIENCE with Christ
CHECK IT OUT
- pointe.info/TONGUES
- HOLY SPIRIT WORKSHOP - pointe.info/WORKSHOPS
- mylifepointe.com/REPRESSED
3. MIRACLES Why don’t we see more Bible-type spectacular MIRACLES today?
JOHN 14:12 NKJV [Jesus said] Most assuredly, I say to you, he who BELIEVES in Me, the WORKS THAT I DO HE WILL DO ALSO; and GREATER [WORKS] than these he will do, because I go to My Father.
MARK 16:17-18, 20 NKJV [Jesus said] And these SIGNS will follow those who believe: IN MY NAME they will CAST OUT DEMONS; they will speak with NEW TONGUES; 18 they will TAKE UP SERPENTS; and if they DRINK ANYTHING DEADLY, it will by no means hurt them; they will LAY HANDS ON THE SICK, and they will recover. ... 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, the LORD WORKING WITH [THEM] and CONFIRMING THE WORD through the accompanying SIGNS. Amen.
CONSIDERATIONS
- UNBELIEF (Ignorance & Rebellious Attitudes)
- This generation is LESS INTENTIONAL
- We are MEDICINE DEPENDENT
- There is great CHRISTIAN SKEPTICISM/OPPOSITION
- EMOTIONAL DYSFUNCTION/STRESS = 90% of disease
4. HEALING Is it appropriate to refer to a person’s DEATH as their ULTIMATE HEALING?
CONSIDERATIONS
- EVERY “HEALING” PROMISE in both the Old and New Testaments clearly refer to physical recovery
- JESUS performed and spoke of “HEALING” MIRACLES, yet NEVER is DEATH referred to as “HEALING”
- APOSTLES performed and spoke of “HEALING” MIRACLES, yet NEVER is DEATH referred to as “HEALING”
UPCOMING WEEKS IN FAQ * JUNE 23
- WOMEN PREACHERS AND FEMINISM
- PEOPLE LEAVING CHURCHES
- INTOLERANCE, YET EMBRACING A BELIEF
- SOUL TIES
-
DATING AND HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
-
JUNE 30 / JULY 7 & 14
-
END TIMES
- CHRISTIAN / PUBLIC SCHOOLS
- DEMON MOVIES
- BREAKING CIVIL LAWS
- HOROSCOPES
- ALCOHOL
- DE-SENSITIZED BY CULTURE
- MARIJUANA & CBD
- DEPRESSION MEDICATION
- PREMARITAL SEX
- DIVORCE
- DEATH PENALTY
- ABORTION (WILL NOT BE LIVE-STREAMED OR RECORDED FOR PUBLIC VIEWING)
- LGBTQ (WILL NOT BE LIVE-STREAMED OR RECORDED FOR PUBLIC VIEWING)
FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like…
- “Is it wrong to go dancing?”
- “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”
- “Will we be married in heaven?”
- “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”
- “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?”
- “Is it OK to spank your kids?”
- “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?”
- “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?”
You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.
Q&A RULES: * The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH * Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit * Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY * If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION * Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!”
1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS 1. God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity 2. Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science 3. Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers 4. Moral Behavior & Sexuality
TODAYS MESSAGE - BIBLE INTERPRETATION, FAITH AND SCIENCE 1. CREATION & EVOLUTION
- How OLD is the EARTH?
- How LONG were the 6 days of CREATION?
- Is there any validity to EVOLUTION?
- Where did DINOSAURS come from?
5 VIEWS OF CREATION
- Biblical-Poetic Symbolism
- Young-Earth Biblical Literalists
- Old-Earth Biblical Literalists
- Naturalistic & Mythological
- Old-Earth Gap Theorists
GENESIS 1:1-2 NIV “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was (became) FORMLESS and EMPTY (Tohu), DARKNESS was over the surface of the deep…”
ISAIAH 45:18 NIV “…God Himself that formed the earth and made it; He…created it NOT IN VAIN (Tohu)…”
ISAIAH 14:12-16 KJV How art thou FALLEN FROM HEAVEN, O Lucifer, … which didst weaken the NATIONS!
EZEKIEL 28:11-19 KJV Thou [art] the ANOINTED CHERUB that COVERETH; … 16 By the multitude of thy MERCHANDISE they have filled the midst of thee with violence, …therefore I will CAST THEE AS PROFANE OUT OF THE MOUNTAIN OF GOD:
GENESIS 1:28 KJV And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and REPLENISH the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
MICRO VERSUS MACRO
- MICRO – Variations WITHIN the Biblical KIND
- MACRO – Changing FROM one KIND to ANOTHER (All organisms descend from common ancestral form)
2. ALIENS - Are ALIENS real?
UFO POLLS
- 50% of all adult Americans believe
- 6-12% claim to have seen one
- 90-95% are natural phenomena, hoaxes or man-made crafts
- 5-10% defy such explanations
RESPONSE
- IRRELEVANT to Christian truth
- IMPROBABLE for unqualified intelligent life to exist
- THEY ARE PROBABLY angels and demons
3. TITHING – Are we supposed to TITHE (10% Giving) from our GROSS income or our NET income?
4. MORE MIRACLES – Why don’t we see more Bible-type spectacular MIRACLES today?
CONSIDERATIONS
- UNBELIEF (Ignorance & Rebellious Attitudes)
- This generation is LESS INTENTIONAL
- We are MEDICINE DEPENDENT
- There is great CHRISTIAN SKEPTICISM/OPPOSITION
- EMOTIONAL DYSFUNCTION/STRESS = 90% of disease
5. HEALING – Is it appropriate to refer to a person’s DEATH as their ULTIMATE HEALING?
6. HEARING GOD’S VOICE – How do you know if something is really GOD’S LEADING or just YOUR OWN THOUGHTS?
- SCRIPTURES (Authority, Revelation, Faith)
Is my heart calibrated to Scripture? 2. SEEKING (Attitudes to Kingdom, Church, Caring about what God Cares About)
How will my decision impact my Church? 3. SHEPHERDS (Pastors, Spiritual Leaders, Etc)
What would my Pastor say about this? (the aggregate voice) 4. STAGES (Ways, Paths, Steps / Seasons, Streets and Steps)
Am I deciding things incongruent with my stage: season, street or step? 5. SCREENINGS (Gauges and Metrics to Follow)
Are my “knowings” becoming galvanized?
7. BLESS YOU – Is it okay to say, “BLESS YOU” when someone SNEEZES?
LUKE 6:28 NKJV [Jesus said] BLESS those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.
8. WHAT IS SUCCESS – What does SUCCESS look like for a CHRISTIAN versus the SECULAR definition?
MATTHEW 25:21 NKJV [Jesus said] "His lord said to him, 'Well [done], good and FAITHFUL servant; you were FAITHFUL over a few things, I will make you RULER over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
FAITHFUL isn’t PERFORMANCE;
it is PARTNERSHIP-DEPENDENCE
to do everything in life with God.
FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like…
- “Is it wrong to go dancing?”
- “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”
- “Will we be married in heaven?”
- “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”
- “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?”
- “Is it OK to spank your kids?”
- “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?”
- “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?”
You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.
Q&A RULES: * The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH * Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit * Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY * If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION * Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!”
1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS 1. God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity 2. Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science 3. Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers 4. Moral Behavior & Sexuality
TODAYS MESSAGE - BIBLE INTERPRETATION, FAITH AND SCIENCE 1. BIBLE – Why do Christians believe the BIBLE is INSPIRED, INERRANT or INFALLIBLE? Should the BIBLE be taken LITERALLY?
-
DEFINITIONS
- INSPIRED – “God divinely influenced writers”
- INERRANT – “Without error”
- INFALLIBLE – “Incapable of teaching any error”
-
WHAT INERRANCY DOESN’T MEAN
- Everything in the Bible is TRUE
- There are no PERCEIVED contradictions
- That all extra copies and all translations ARE
2 TIMOTHY 3:16 NKJV All Scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…
-
REASONS I BELIEVE
- JESUS believed the Bible as authoritative
- PROPHESIES of OT & NT Fulfillment
- Jesus DISCIPLES treated Bible as authoritative
- It has CHANGED MY LIFE
2. BIBLE INTERPRETATION – Is there a good system to INTERPRET the BIBLE?
While the BIBLE is inspired and authoritative,
a person’s INTERPRETATION is NOT!
-
METHODS OF GOOD INTERPRETATION
- Jesus & Redemption is our greatest revelation of God
- History (culture & background)
- Grammar (nuances of Hebrew & Greek)
- Context (person speaking, speaking to, before & after)
- Scripture to Interpret Scripture
3. JOB – Does God still TEST OUR FAITH as He did JOB, where He STEPS BACK and ALLOWS THE ENEMY a free hand to TORMENT us?
JOB 1:8-12 NKJV Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered My servant Job, that [there is] none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil?" 9 So Satan answered the LORD and said, "Does Job fear God for nothing? 10 "Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 "But now, stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face!" 12 And the LORD said to Satan, "Behold, all that he has [is] in your power; only do not lay a hand on his [person]." So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD.
4. CREATION & EVOLUTION
- How OLD is the EARTH?
- How LONG were the 6 days of CREATION?
- Is there any validity to EVOLUTION?
- Where did DINOSAURS come from?
GENESIS 1:1-2 NIV “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was (became) FORMLESS and EMPTY (Tohu), DARKNESS was over the surface of the deep…”
ISAIAH 45:18 NIV “…God Himself that formed the earth and made it; He…created it NOT IN VAIN (Tohu)…”
5. END TIMES – What are the END TIMES EVENTS and TIMELINES?
6. ALIENS - Are ALIENS real?
7. TITHING – Are we supposed to TITHE (10% Giving) from our GROSS income or our NET income?
8. MORE MIRACLES – Why don’t we see more Bible-type spectacular MIRACLES today?
9. HEALING – Is it appropriate to refer to a person’s DEATH as their ULTIMATE HEALING?
10. HEARING GOD’S VOICE – How do you know if something is really GOD’S LEADING or just YOUR OWN THOUGHTS?
- SCRIPTURES (Authority, Revelation, Faith)
Is my heart calibrated to Scripture? 2. SEEKING (Attitudes to Kingdom, Church, Caring about what God Cares About)
How will my decision impact my Church? 3. SHEPHERDS (Pastors, Spiritual Leaders, Etc)
What would my Pastor say about this? (the aggregate voice) 4. STAGES (Ways, Paths, Steps / Seasons, Streets and Steps)
Am I deciding things incongruent with my stage: season, street or step? 5. SCREENINGS (Gauges and Metrics to Follow)
Are my “knowings” becoming galvanized?
11. BLESS YOU – Is it okay to say, “BLESS YOU” when someone SNEEZES?
12. WHAT IS SUCCESS – What does SUCCESS look like for a CHRISTIAN versus the SECULAR definition?
MATTHEW 25:21 NKJV [Jesus said] "His lord said to him, 'Well [done], good and FAITHFUL servant; you were FAITHFUL over a few things, I will make you RULER over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
FAITHFUL isn’t PERFORMANCE;
it is PARTNERSHIP-DEPENDENCE
to do everything in life with God.
FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like…
- “Is it wrong to go dancing?”
- “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”
- “Will we be married in heaven?”
- “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”
- “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?”
- “Is it OK to spank your kids?”
- “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?”
- “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?”
You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.
Q&A RULES: * The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH * Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit * Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY * If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION * Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!”
1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS 1. God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity 2. Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science 3. Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers 4. Moral Behavior & Sexuality
TODAYS MESSAGE - GOD’S LOVE, SALVATION & ETERNITY 1. When a Christian COMMITS SUICIDE do they still go to heaven?
ROMANS 5:1-2 NIV Therefore, since we have been JUSTIFIED THROUGH FAITH, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom WE HAVE GAINED ACCESS BY FAITH INTO THIS GRACE in which we now stand. 2. Will our PETS be in HEAVEN with us?
ISAIAH 11:6-8 NIV The WOLF will live with the LAMB, the LEOPARD will lie down with the GOAT, the CALF and the LION and the YEARLING together; and a little child will lead them. 7 The COW will feed with the BEAR, their young will lie down together, and the LION will eat straw like the OX. 8 The infant will play near the hole of the COBRA, and the young child put his hand into the VIPER'S nest. 3. Do our Christian FAMILY MEMBERS who have PASSED WATCH what we are doing?
HEBREWS 12:1 NIV Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great CLOUD OF WITNESSES, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us… 4. Will we be able to RECOGNIZE PEOPLE, FRIENDS and FAMILY in heaven?
LUKE 16:23 NIV In hades, where (the rich man) was in torment, he looked up and saw ABRAHAM far away, with LAZARUS by his side. 5. What AGE will we be in HEAVEN?
1 JOHN 3:2 NIV Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that WHEN HE (JESUS) APPEARS, WE SHALL BE LIKE HIM, for we shall see him as he is. 6. Will we be MARRIED in HEAVEN?
MATTHEW 22:30 NIV At the resurrection people will NEITHER MARRY NOR BE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE… 7. Will we have “RELATIONS” in HEAVEN? 8. Do we become ANGELS in heaven?
HEBREWS 12:22-23 NIV But you have come to Mount Zion, to the HEAVENLY JERUSALEM, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of ANGELS in joyful assembly, 23 to the CHURCH of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to THE SPIRITS OF RIGHTEOUS MEN MADE PERFECT… 9. Can we PRAY to our LOVED ONES who have ALREADY PASSED?
LEVITICUS 20:6 NLT I will also turn against those who commit SPIRITUAL PROSTITUTION by putting their trust in MEDIUMS or in those who consult the SPIRITS OF THE DEAD. I will cut them off from the community. 10. When do people become GHOSTS? 11. Is it permitted to be CREMATED when we die?
GENESIS 3:19 NIV …for dust you are and to DUST you will RETURN. 12. Is belief in JESUS as SAVIOR the ONLY WAY to get to HEAVEN?
JOHN 14:6 NIV Jesus answered, "I am THE WAY and THE TRUTH and THE LIFE. NO ONE comes to the Father EXCEPT THROUGH ME.”
1 JOHN 4:9 NLT God showed how much he loved us by sending HIS ONE AND ONLY SON into the world SO THAT WE MIGHT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE through HIM.
4 WAYS GOD COMMUNICATES
- Creation
- Conscience
- Holy Spirit
- Human Conversations
TODAY’S EPISODE BIG QUESTION What are the BLANKS
You REQUIRE
BEFORE you BELIEVE?
BIG IDEA Whatever you REQUIRE FIRST
– the BLANK –
reveals where your REAL DEVOTION LIES!
WHAT/WHO IS ON THE THRONE? The REAL AUTHORITY over your life
is whatever lies in your BLANK!
FIRST? YOU DO NOT HAVE TO…
SEE FIRST
UNDERSTAND FIRST
VERIFY SCIENCE FIRST
HAVE THE AFFIRMATION OF YOUR GROUP FIRST
YOU CAN SIMPLY CHOOSE GOD FIRST! A BIG BLANK “I DON’T HAVE ENOUGH FAITH,
THEREFORE I CAN’T BELIEVE
GOD’S PROMISE!”
ROMANS 12:3 NKJV [Paul said] For I say… to everyone who is among you… GOD HAS DEALT to EACH ONE a MEASURE OF FAITH.
ACTS 10:34 KJV [Peter said] Of a truth I perceive that GOD IS NO RESPECTER OF PERSONS.
THE FAITH ADVANTAGE – IF HE RESPECTS PEOPLE 1. WISDOM: JAMES 1:5-8 NKJV If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. 2. VICTORY: 1 JOHN 5:4 NKJV For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. 3. MOVE MOUNTAINS: MARK 11:22-23 NKJV So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 4. ANSWERED PRAYER: MARK 11:22-24 NKJV So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. … 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive [them], and you will have [them]. 5. PEACE: ISAIAH 26:3 NKJV You will keep [him] in perfect peace, [Whose] mind [is] stayed [on You], Because he trusts in You. 6. PHYSICAL HEALING: Mark 5:25-34 NKJV 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in Himself that power had gone out of Him, turned around in the crowd and said, "Who touched My clothes?" … 34 And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction." 7. SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY: 1 PETER 5:8-9 NKJV Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, … 8. WORD OF GOD - POWER: Hebrews 4:2 NKJV For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard [it]. 9. DEEP REST: HEBREWS 4:3 NKJV For we who have believed do enter that rest… 10. HAPPINESS: PROVERBS 16:20 NKJV He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy [is] he. 11. RICH PRESENCE OF GOD: JOHN 11:40 NKJV Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?" 12. PLEASE GOD: HEBREWS 11:6 NKJV But without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
MARK 9:21-27 NLT "How long has this been happening?" Jesus asked the boy's father. He replied, "Since he was a little boy. 22 The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, IF YOU CAN." 23 "WHAT DO YOU MEAN, 'IF I CAN'?" Jesus asked. "Anything is possible if a person believes." 24 The father instantly cried out, "I do believe, but help me overcome my UNBELIEF!” 25 When Jesus saw that the crowd of onlookers was growing, he rebuked the evil spirit.
HEBREWS 4:1-2, 6 NKJV - 1 Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed the GOSPEL WAS PREACHED to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, NOT BEING MIXED WITH FAITH in those who heard [it]. ... 6 Since therefore it remains that some [must] enter it, and those to whom it was first preached did not enter because of DISOBEDIENCE (UNBELIEF – KJV)…
2 KINDS OF UNBELIEF 1. BASED ON IGNORANCE 2. A REBELLIOUS ATTITUDE
ROMANS 10:17 NKJV So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
If you have God’s Word for something…you have faith for it! SIMPLE CHOICE Faith is activated by a choice,
and everyone has the ability to freely choose!
CALL TO ACTION Out of everything we talked about today,
what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
ASSESS WHAT ARE YOUR BLANKS
CHOOSE TO RE-SURRENDER TO GOD FIRST
PUT GOD’S WORD AS YOUR FIRST AND FINAL
EASTER | MY CHAMPION Do you ever need someone to be your champion? Maybe you need someone greater than you to have your back. Somehow it is hard to stretch your mind to believe that someone would choose to champion you. Shame screams. Injustice steams. Fear reams. Who will carry your victory? Who will raise you to glory? Who will conquer for you? This Easter we will find out the greatest truth ever made known: Jesus defeated his own death so He could be present in your life. He has become the energy behind your ability to “faith”. He has become your hope in days of darkness. Striving can cease. He is about to crown you with holy confidence. The Resurrection proves it all!
You are MY CHAMPION,
Giants fall when you stand undefeated
Every battle you’ve won
I am who you say i am
You crown me with confidence
I am seated - in the heavenly place
Undefeated - with the one who has conquered it all
----------
ACTS 5:29-32 TPT [Peter said] …You had Jesus arrested and killed by CRUCIFIXION, but the God of our forefathers has RAISED HIM UP. He’s the one God has exalted and SEATED AT HIS RIGHT HAND as our SAVIOR and CHAMPION.
----------
WHERE ARE YOU? Believe and HOPE
Believe but WISH
GIVEN UP on believing
----------
MARY MAGDALENE & THE OTHER WOMEN The RESURRECTION means that even
greater things are in your future!
----------
PETER The RESURRECTION means that even
after you have believed, then failed,
that God has a purpose for your life!
----------
TWO DISCIPLES & THE ELEVEN APOSTLES The RESURRECTION means that even
when you are disillusioned
and try to walk away,
that God will pursue you!
----------
Believe and HOPE
Believe but WISH
GIVEN UP on believing
----------
ACTS 5:29-32 TPT [Peter said] …You had Jesus arrested and killed by CRUCIFIXION, but the God of our forefathers has RAISED HIM UP. He’s the one God has exalted and SEATED AT HIS RIGHT HAND as our SAVIOR and CHAMPION. He is the provider of GRACE as the REDEEMER of Israel. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the HOLY SPIRIT, whom GOD FREELY GIVES to all WHO BELIEVE IN HIM.
----------
ACTIVATION Out of everything we talked about today,
what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
ACCEPT GOD’S GRACE GIFT
BE EMPOWERED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT
TAKE YOUR SEAT AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND
TODAY’S EPISODE BIG QUESTION What are the BLANKS
You REQUIRE
BEFORE you BELIEVE?
BIG IDEA Whatever you REQUIRE FIRST
– the BLANK –
Reveals where your REAL DEVOTION LIES!
WHAT/WHO IS ON THE THRONE? The REAL AUTHORITY over your life
is whatever lies in your BLANK!
JOHN 20:24-29 NKJV The other disciples therefore said to Thomas, "We have seen the Lord." So he [Thomas] said to them, "UNLESS I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I WILL NOT BELIEVE." …27 Then Jesus said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand [here], and put [it] into My side. DO NOT BE UNBELIEVING, BUT BELIEVING."
FIRST? YOU DO NOT HAVE TO… SEE FIRST
UNDERSTAND FIRST
VERIFY SCIENCE FIRST
HAVE THE AFFIRMATION OF YOUR GROUP FIRST
CHOOSE GOD FIRST!
2 CORINTHIANS 12:1-2, 4, 7 NKJV [Paul said] … I will come to VISIONS and REVELATIONS of the Lord: 2 I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago--whether IN THE BODY I do not know, or whether OUT OF THE BODY I do not know, God knows--such a one was caught up TO THE THIRD HEAVEN. ... 4 how he was caught up into Paradise and heard INEXPRESSIBLE WORDS, which it is NOT LAWFUL FOR A MAN TO UTTER. ... 7 And lest I should be EXALTED ABOVE MEASURE by the ABUNDANCE OF THE REVELATIONS, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be EXALTED ABOVE MEASURE.
EPHESIANS 3:17-19 AMP [Paul prayed] … that Christ may dwell in your hearts THROUGH your FAITH. And may you, having been [deeply] rooted and [securely] grounded in love, 18 be fully capable of comprehending with all the saints (God’s people) the width and length and height and depth of His love [fully EXPERIENCING that amazing, endless love]; 19 and [that you may come] to know [practically, through personal EXPERIENCE] the LOVE OF CHRIST which far surpasses [mere] knowledge [without EXPERIENCE]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the FULLNESS OF GOD [may have the RICHEST MEASURE of the DIVINE PRESENCE, and become A BODY WHOLLY filled and flooded with GOD HIMSELF]!
EXPERIENCE IS * The INVOLVEMENT IN what is happening, rather than abstract reflection on an event. * The CONSCIOUS AWARENESS of time, space, thought, imagination, emotion, sensation, environment, relationships, memories and purpose.
1 CORINTHIANS 2:7, 9-10, 13-14 NKJV [Paul said] But we speak the WISDOM OF GOD in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our glory, ... 9 But as it is written: "EYE has not seen, nor EAR heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 10 But GOD HAS REVEALED [them] to us through His SPIRIT. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. ... 13 These things we also speak, not in words which MAN'S WISDOM teaches but which the HOLY SPIRIT TEACHES, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the NATURAL MAN does not RECEIVE the things of the Spirit of God, for they are FOOLISHNESS to him; NOR CAN HE KNOW [THEM], because they are SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED.
KNOWLEDGE??? Apologetics, Christian philosophy
and the sciences give comfort,
BUT CANNOT GIVE FAITH!
ROMANS 10:17 NKJV So then FAITH [comes] by HEARING, and HEARING by the WORD OF GOD.
SIMPLE CHOICE FAITH is activated by a CHOICE,
and EVERYONE has the ABILITY
to FREELY CHOOSE!
HEBREWS 4:1-2, 6 NKJV Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed the GOSPEL WAS PREACHED to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, NOT BEING MIXED WITH FAITH in those who heard [it]. ... 6 Since therefore it remains that some [must] enter it, and those to whom it was first preached did not enter because of DISOBEDIENCE (UNBELIEF – KJV)…
CALL TO ACTION Out of everything we talked about today,
what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
Pull out your phone and email it to yourself right now. NAME THEM!
ASSESS WHAT ARE YOUR PRESENT BLANKS
CHOOSE TO RE-SURRENDER TO GOD FIRST
PUT GOD’S WORD AS YOUR FIRST AND FINAL
BLANKS Do you have self-imposed contingencies to really believe God? Do you first require a scientific understanding, a profound experience, an undeniable miracle, to feel a certain way, to enjoy a series of unobstructed successes, or _______ ? Whatever you require to be put in the BLANK as the precursor to your faith elevates the BLANK as a supreme idol. These stipulated BLANKS will disrupt the depths of your heart, torment the narratives of your mind and create chaos in your closeness to God. Because trust is never about the BLANK first; it’s about the choice to believe first. God cares about BLANKS, but only after He sits alone on the throne of your heart. History is filled with the stories of people who were stuck as slaves to BLANKS; that is until they broke allegiance to the BLANK to trust God completely. Then real encounters with God, and even miracles happened! If you are stuck, or know someone who is, join us for a powerful, insightful and encouraging series called BLANKS.
TODAY’S EPISODE BIG QUESTION What are the BLANKS
You REQUIRE
BEFORE you BELIEVE?
BIG IDEA Whatever you REQUIRE FIRST
– the BLANK –
Reveals where your REAL DEVOTION LIES!
JOHN 20:24-29 NKJV Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said to him, "We have seen the Lord." So he [Thomas] said to them, "UNLESS I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I WILL NOT BELIEVE." 26 And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, "Peace to you!" 27 Then He said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand [here], and put [it] into My side. DO NOT BE UNBELIEVING, BUT BELIEVING." 28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. BLESSED [are] those who have not seen and [yet] have believed."
FIRST? YOU DO NOT HAVE TO…
SEE FIRST
UNDERSTAND FIRST
VERIFY SCIENCE FIRST
HAVE THE AFFIRMATION OF YOUR GROUP FIRST
SIMPLY CHOOSE GOD FIRST!
PROVERBS 3:5 NKJV [Solomon said] TRUST in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING.
HEBREWS 11:1 AMPC Now FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, [a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the PROOF OF THINGS [WE] DO NOT SEE and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is NOT REVEALED TO THE SENSES]. … 3 By FAITH we UNDERSTAND…
FAITH is the
ACCESS POINT
to greater
UNDERSTANDING and WISDOM!
NATURAL UNDERSTANDING
and NATURAL WISDOM
IS NOT
the ACCESS POINT
to GREATER FAITH!
PSALM 111:10 NKJV [The Psalmist said] The FEAR of the LORD [is] the BEGINNING OF WISDOM; a GOOD UNDERSTANDING have all those who DO [His commandments].
PROVERBS 9:10 NKJV [Solomon said] The FEAR of the LORD [is] the BEGINNING OF WISDOM, and the KNOWLEDGE of the Holy One [is] UNDERSTANDING.
PSALM 119:104-105 NKJV [The Psalmist said] THROUGH YOUR PRECEPTS I get UNDERSTANDING; … 105 Your word [is] a LAMP to my feet and a LIGHT to my path.
PSALM 119:130 NKJV [The Psalmist said] The entrance of YOUR WORDS gives LIGHT; It gives UNDERSTANDING to the SIMPLE.
JAMES 3:15 AMP [James said] This [superficial] WISDOM is NOT that which comes down FROM ABOVE, but is EARTHLY (secular), natural (SENSUAL) (unspiritual), even DEMONIC.
1 CORINTHIANS 2:7, 9-10, 13-14 NKJV [Paul said] But we speak the WISDOM OF GOD in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our glory, ... 9 But as it is written: "EYE has not seen, nor EAR heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 10 But GOD HAS REVEALED [them] to us through His SPIRIT. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. ... 13 These things we also speak, not in words which MAN'S WISDOM teaches but which the HOLY SPIRIT TEACHES, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the NATURAL MAN does not RECEIVE the things of the Spirit of God, for they are FOOLISHNESS to him; NOR CAN HE KNOW [THEM], because they are SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED.
CALL TO ACTION Out of everything we talked about today,
what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
Pull out your phone and email it to yourself right now. NAME THEM!
ASSESS WHAT IS REQUIRED FIRST
RE-SURRENDER TO GOD’S TRUTH
PUT GOD ON THE THRONE OF YOUR HEART
TODAY’S EPISODE CURT THOMPSON ON SHAME "Shame is the emotional weapon that evil uses to..."
- "Corrupt our relationship with God and each other (includes our kids)"
- "Disintegrate (separate, decay, destroy) any and all gifts of vocational vision and creativity"
THE STORY SHAME IS TRYING TO TELL… SOME VERSION OF…
- "I am not enough"
- "I am powerless to change my circumstances"
- "I’m a prisoner to this story"
- "I don’t have what it takes to tolerate this moment or circumstance"
- "There is something wrong with me"
STORY OF REDEMPTION HEBREWS 12:1-3 AMP Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us, 2 [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, DISREGARDING THE SHAME, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work]. 3 Just consider and meditate on Him…
PASSION TRANSLATION 2 …Because his heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be his, he endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God!
LETTING GO OF THE OLD STORY
EMBRACING THE NEW STORY
DISREGARDING THE SHAME
RIPPLE What if you held the power to change the world? What if you had the resources to simply make a choice that could impact destinies, prevent suffering and guide the generations of tomorrow? Would you use your power? While many people are waiting for the spectacular fantasies of some far away power, Jesus talked about something as small as everyday choices. Through right choices humans possess the power to drop a pebble, to start a wave, and to make an eternal ripple. Doing good, serving well, giving generously and inviting radically are all within our atomic choices; and when combined with other’s atomic choices we create a massive tidal wave of change. Come learn with us Jesus’ vision for a quantum ripple!
RIPPLE What if you held the power to change the world? What if you had the resources to simply make a choice that could impact destinies, prevent suffering and guide the generations of tomorrow? Would you use your power? While many people are waiting for the spectacular fantasies of some far away power, Jesus talked about something as small as everyday choices. Through right choices humans possess the power to drop a pebble, to start a wave, and to make an eternal ripple. Doing good, serving well, giving generously and inviting radically are all within our atomic choices; and when combined with other’s atomic choices we create a massive tidal wave of change. Come learn with us Jesus’ vision for a quantum ripple!
TODAY’S EPISODE BIG IDEA LIFE IS MADE UP OF
THOUSANDS OF INDIVIDUAL CHOICES
WITH EACH CHOICE
CREATING A CERTAIN RIPPLE.
MATTHEW 16:24-27 NKJV Then Jesus said to His disciples,… 26 "For what profit is it to a man if he GAINS THE WHOLE WORLD, and LOSES HIS OWN SOUL? Or what will a man GIVE IN EXCHANGE for his soul?
GAINS & LOSSES GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD,
BUT LOSES _________ !
LUKE 4:43 NKJV [Jesus said] I MUST preach the KINGDOM of God to the other cities also, because FOR THIS PURPOSE I have been sent.
CONTEMPLATE WHAT IS YOUR
“I MUST _________ !”
MALACHI 3:6-16 NIV "I the LORD do not change… 7 Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. RETURN TO ME, and I will return to you," says the LORD Almighty. "But you ask, 'How are we to return?' 8 "Will a mere mortal ROB GOD? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'HOW are we robbing you?’” IN TITHES AND OFFERINGS. 9 You are UNDER A CURSE - your whole nation--because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the WHOLE TITHE into the STOREHOUSE, that there may be FOOD IN MY HOUSE. TEST ME in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the FLOODGATES OF HEAVEN and POUR OUT SO MUCH BLESSING that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I WILL PREVENT pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe," says the LORD Almighty. 12 "Then ALL THE NATIONS WILL CALL YOU BLESSED, for yours will be a delightful land," says the LORD Almighty. 13 "You have SPOKEN ARROGANTLY AGAINST ME," says the LORD. "Yet you ask, 'WHAT have we said against you?' 14 "You have said, 'It is FUTILE TO SERVE GOD. WHAT DO WE GAIN by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the LORD Almighty? 15 But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly EVILDOERS PROSPER, and even when they put God to the test, THEY GET AWAY WITH IT.' " 16 Then THOSE WHO FEARED THE LORD talked with each other, and the LORD LISTENED and HEARD. A SCROLL OF REMEMBRANCE was written in his presence concerning those who FEARED the LORD and HONORED his name.
TITHE TRIPPLE RIPPLE RIPPLE INWARD
RIPPLE OUTWARD
RIPPLE UPWARD
TITHE FACTS 1. Tithe MEANS “10%” [“tithes AND offerings”] 2. There are 3 TITHES in the Old Testament (10-23%) 3. TITHE was NEVER a form of government TAXATION 4. The TITHE was to be brought to God’s HOUSE (the PRIESTS or the TEMPLE), which is parallel to the local church in the New Testament 5. The TITHE was never to APPEASE God’s anger, or buy Him off 6. The TITHE is still a spiritual law ENACTED TODAY, designed to resource TRANSFORMATION, KINGDOM MISSION and WORSHIP DEVOTION 7. The TITHE was an Old Testament form of SPIRITUAL EXERCISE for the heart, by putting GOD’S KINGDOM FIRST 8. The WHOLE TITHE is ALREADY God’s; when we don’t return it we are “robbing God” 9. The TITHE is from our FIRST and BEST portions 10. Even the PRIESTS/TEMPLE were to TITHE
DEUTERONOMY 8:18 NKJV And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you POWER TO GET WEALTH, that HE MAY ESTABLISH HIS COVENANT which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.
LEVITICUS 27:30, 32 NIV A TITHE of EVERYTHING from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, BELONGS to the LORD; it is HOLY to the LORD. ... 32 Every TITHE of the herd and flock--every TENTH animal that passes under the shepherd's rod--will be HOLY to the LORD.
WHY WE DON’T TITHE * We didn’t know TITHING was a such a powerful deal * We had misinformed doctrinal conflict around TITHING * We had thought giving elsewhere is TITHING * We had thought that giving incrementally was TITHING * We considered TITHING a luxury, rather than a priority * We don’t have enough money at my house to TITHE * We don’t know why
MAMMON IS DECIETFUL WHICH OF THESE STATEMENTS
CREATES MORE ANXIETY IN YOU?
- “You have no access to God for a year”
- “You have no access to money for a year”
WHY?
WHAT IF WE DON’T TITHE? * We become completely disempowered Christians * Our hearts become increasingly hardened * The mission of God is unrealized, the gospel is under resourced * What we take for granted today, will be gone tomorrow * Our legacy is stolen
ACTIVATION OUT OF EVERYTHING WE TALKED ABOUT TODAY,
WHAT IS YOUR ONE NEXT STEP THAT YOU NEED TO TAKE?
- ASSESS THE “PURPOSE” OF YOUR PRESENT CHOICES
- RE-SURRENDER TO GOD’S PURPOSE
- TAKE A COURAGEOUS STEP TO TITHE
RIPPLE What if you held the power to change the world? What if you had the resources to simply make a choice that could impact destinies, prevent suffering and guide the generations of tomorrow? Would you use your power? While many people are waiting for the spectacular fantasies of some far away power, Jesus talked about something as small as everyday choices. Through right choices humans possess the power to drop a pebble, to start a wave, and to make an eternal ripple. Doing good, serving well, giving generously and inviting radically are all within our atomic choices; and when combined with other’s atomic choices we create a massive tidal wave of change. Come learn with us Jesus’ vision for a quantum ripple!
TODAY’S EPISODE BIG IDEA LIFE IS MADE UP OF
THOUSANDS OF INDIVIDUAL CHOICES
WITH EACH CHOICE
CREATING A CERTAIN RIPPLE.
MATTHEW 16:24-27 NKJV Then Jesus said to His disciples,… 26 "For what profit is it to a man if he GAINS THE WHOLE WORLD, and LOSES HIS OWN SOUL? Or what will a man GIVE IN EXCHANGE for his soul?
GAINS & LOSSES GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD,
BUT LOSES _________ !
LUKE 4:43 NKJV [Jesus said] I MUST preach the KINGDOM of God to the other cities also, because FOR THIS PURPOSE I have been sent.
CONTEMPLATE WHAT IS YOUR
“I MUST _________ !”
EPHESIANS 1:22-23 MSG [Paul said] GOD is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. 23 The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
JOHN 15:14-17 NIV [Jesus said] You are MY FRIENDS if you do what I COMMAND. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his MASTER'S BUSINESS. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and APPOINTED YOU so that you might go and bear fruit--FRUIT THAT WILL LAST--and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. 17 This is my command: Love each other.
1 CORINTHIANS 16:15 KJV I beseech you, brethren, (YE KNOW the HOUSE OF STEPHANAS, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and [that] they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints…)
WHY A RIPPLE ADDICTION 1. Lose your life you will find it (MARK 8:34-37) 2. Increased boldness in your faith (1TIMOTHY 3:13) 3. Increased spiritual sharpness (HEBREWS 6:9-12) 4. Living a blessed life (PSALM 92:13, PSALM 35:27) 5. Receiving honor from God (JOHN 12:26) 6. Multiplying our life’s fruitfulness (JOHN 15:1-8) 7. Receive heavenly rewards (1 CORINTHIANS 3:8-9) 8. Experience promotion from God (LUKE 16:12-13) 9. Access greatness (MATTHEW 23:11) 10. Rest in a state of supernatural satisfaction (PSALM 36:8) 11. Live in 100 times multiplication (MARK 10:28-31) 12. Leave an eternal legacy (JOHN 15:14-17)
WHY WE DON’T CHOOSE GAINS * Schedule “too busy”
+ **Fear of missing out**
-
Don’t want to screw things up
- Fear of disappointing others
-
Don’t want to be close enough to see leader’s flaws
-
Fear of being disappointed
-
I’m not needed – everything is under control
-
Fear of added responsibility
-
Don’t have emotional bandwidth to serve
-
Fear of being further depleted
ACTIVATION OUT OF EVERYTHING WE TALKED ABOUT TODAY,
WHAT IS YOUR ONE NEXT STEP THAT YOU NEED TO TAKE?
- ASSESS THE “PURPOSE” OF YOUR PRESENT CHOICES
- RE-SURRENDER TO GOD’S PURPOSE
- JOIN A CHURCH TEAM
**MOVING FORWARD THIS WEEK** * WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THIS?
- HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO HELP/SERVE OTHERS?
TANGO Great relationships are like a dance; they move with passion in an interwoven heartbeat. This series of movements provide a lifetime of shared experiences, growth, beauty and style. Great dances require practice, learning the instinctive flow of your partner, encountering conflicting steps and learning recovery. When a couples life is out of sync, breakdowns begin to happen. The repeated impact causes callouses to grow on the heart. To be great at the dance, how do couple’s repair the soul well? In this short 3-week preaching series, the messages are made to inspire, challenge, and encourage you in your relationships whether you are single, dating, or married.
BIG IDEA A GREAT RELATIONSHIP IS NOT ABOUT THE ABSENCE OF CONFLICT;
IT’S ABOUT THE EMOTIONAL REPAIR AFTER A CONFLICT!
JAMES 4:1 NIV [James said] What causes FIGHTS and QUARRELS among you? Don't they come from your DESIRES (GREEK – Hedone) that battle WITHIN YOU?
CONTEMPTUOUS FIGHTING
COMES FROM THE PURSUIT OF PERSONAL PLEASURE,
RATHER THAN CONTENDING FOR RELATIONSHIP CONNECTION.
HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW
WITH A 94% CERTAINTY
THAT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS WILL SUCCEED?
4 HORSEMEN OF APOCALYPSE (JOHN GOTTMAN) CONTEMPT
CRITICISM
DEFENSIVENESS
STONEWALLING
80% of DIVORCED men and women said their marriage broke up because they GRADUALLY GREW APART and lost a sense of CLOSENESS, or because they did not FEEL LOVED and APPRECIATED.
- Lynn Gigy & Joan Kelly (Divorce Mediation Project)
Only 27% of couples said an EXTRAMARITAL AFFAIR was even PARTIALLY TO BLAME.
- Lynn Gigy & Joan Kelly (Divorce Mediation Project)
Only 40% of the time do couples DIVORCE because they are having FREQUENT, DEVASTATING FIGHTS.
- Lynn Gigy & Joan Kelly (Divorce Mediation Project)
More often marriages end because, to avoid constant skirmishes, husband and wife distance themselves so much that their friendship and sense of connection are lost.
- Lynn Gigy & Joan Kelly (Divorce Mediation Project)
MISUNDERSTANDING 90% of the time couples misunderstand one another. … Many see conflict in a relationship as a sign of incompatibility; however, it should be seen as a sign that relationship needs growth to occur.
- John Gottman
WHY FIGHT? COUPLES FIGHT ABOUT NOTHING. Surprising as this may sound, after studying couples in the Love Lab for over 40 years, this is our conclusion.
- John Gottman
CONFLICT TYPES RESOLVABLE (31%) & PERPETUAL (69%)
- Meg wants a baby – Donald doesn’t
- Joe is lax about house-chores – Susan nags
- Tony wants kids to be Catholics – Jane wants Baptist
- Angie thinks Ron is too critical of kids
- Lacey is shy and struggles with Andy, who is loud
Despite their differences these couples remain very satisfied with their marriages because they have hit upon a way to deal with their unbudgeable problem so it doesn't overwhelm them. They've learned to keep it in its place and to have a sense of humor about it.
- John Gottman
REPAIR WELL 1. Fighting itself is not “bad” 2. Don’t apologize too soon 3. Soften your startup 4. Begin with how you felt 5. Explain your perceptions 6. Turn towards with empathy 7. Take responsibility 8. Apologize 9. Grow for future similar incidents 10. Put the relationship in an ecosystem
ACTIVATION OUT OF EVERYTHING WE TALKED ABOUT TODAY,
WHAT IS YOUR ONE NEXT STEP THAT YOU NEED TO TAKE?
- TEST OUT A GROUP
- PRACTICE LOVE MAPS - CLICK HERE
- EXERCISE THANKFULNESS
TANGO Great relationships are like a dance; they move with passion in an interwoven heartbeat. This series of movements provide a lifetime of shared experiences, growth, beauty and style. Great dances require practice, learning the instinctive flow of your partner, encountering conflicting steps and learning recovery. When a couples life is out of sync, breakdowns begin to happen. The repeated impact causes callouses to grow on the heart. To be great at the dance, how do couple’s repair the soul well? In this short 3-week preaching series, the messages are made to inspire, challenge, and encourage you in your relationships whether you are single, dating, or married.
EPHESIANS 5:33 NKJV Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so LOVE his own wife as himself, and let the wife [see] that she RESPECTS [her] husband.
1 PETER 3:1-2 ESV Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be WON without a word by the conduct of their wives, 2 when they see your RESPECTFUL and pure conduct.
“A woman will talk to a husband in the home in the way that a man would never talk to him. He can’t believe she can be so belligerent, so disrespectful. … So he withdraws. To him, that is the honorable thing to do.”
– JOHN GOTTMAN
According to John Gottman’s extensive research, 85% of husbands eventually stonewall their wives during conflict.
“Men hear CRITICISM as contempt;
women feel SILENCE as hostility.”
-JOHN GOTTMAN
THE BAROMETER FOR
DIS-RESPECT IS ANGER
THE BAROMETER FOR
LOVELESSNESS IS UNATTUNEMENT
ACTIVATION OUT OF EVERYTHING WE TALKED ABOUT TODAY,
WHAT IS YOUR ONE NEXT STEP THAT YOU NEED TO TAKE?
- TEST OUT A GROUP
- PRACTICE LOVE MAPS - CLICK HERE
- EXERCISE THANKFULNESS
TANGO Great relationships are like a dance; they move with passion in an interwoven heartbeat. This series of movements provide a lifetime of shared experiences, growth, beauty and style. Great dances require practice, learning the instinctive flow of your partner, encountering conflicting steps and learning recovery. When a couples life is out of sync, breakdowns begin to happen. The repeated impact causes callouses to grow on the heart. To be great at the dance, how do couple’s repair the soul well? In this short 3-week preaching series, the messages are made to inspire, challenge, and encourage you in your relationships whether you are single, dating, or married.
MYTHS OF GREAT RELATIONSHIPS 1. Less disagreement equals greater closeness. 2. We must resolve ALL our problems to have a GR. 3. Our greatest threat is our personality flaws. 4. We must have an equal 50/50 load. 5. We must meet a sexual relation quota. 6. Having babies will solve the closeness problems. 7. If it is GREAT, it will require minimal work.
HOW WOULD YOU
LIKE TO KNOW WITH CERTAINTY
THAT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS
WILL GROW TO GREATNESS?
MATTHEW 19:7-8 AMP They said to Jesus, “WHY then did Moses command [us] to give a certificate of DIVORCE and thus to dismiss and repudiate a wife?” 8 He said to them, “BECAUSE OF THE HARDNESS (stubbornness and perversity) of your HEARTS Moses permitted you to dismiss and repudiate and divorce your wives; but from the beginning it has not been so [ordained].”
4 HORSEMEN OF APOCALYPSE CONTEMPT
CRITICISM
DEFENSIVENESS
STONEWALLING
THE POWER OF BIDS * Couples who had DIVORCED had “TURN-TOWARD BIDS” 33 PERCENT of the time (3 / 10). * The couples who were STILL TOGETHER had “TURN-TOWARD BIDS” 87 PERCENT of the time (9 / 10).
#1 FACTOR - CONTEMPT Couples who are focused on
criticizing their partners
MISS A WHOPPING 50 PERCENT
of positive things their partners are doing,
and they see negativity when it’s not there.
KINDNESS ILLUSTRATED DISASTERS
“You’re late. What’s wrong with you? You’re just like your mom.”
MASTERS
“I feel bad for picking on you about your lateness, and I know it’s not your fault,
but it’s really annoying that you’re late again.”
PRACTICING KINDNESS 1. See love as an energy, not a formality! 2. See kindness as a muscle, not a fixed trait. 3. Nurture tenderness with a love map. (Click Here) 4. Be generous about your partner’s intentions. 5. Be generous celebrating your partners good news. 6. Prioritize church ecosystems (Groups)
ACTIVATION OUT OF EVERYTHING WE TALKED ABOUT TODAY,
WHAT IS YOUR ONE NEXT STEP THAT YOU NEED TO TAKE?
- TEST OUT A GROUP
- PRACTICE LOVE MAPS - CLICK HERE
- EXERCISE THANKFULNESS
MODEL OF BEHAVIOR 1. HEART 2. CORE BELIEFS (EMOTIONAL BELIEFS) 3. CONSUMING THOUGHTS 4. COMPULSIVE BEHAVIOR (HEALTHY OR UNHEALTHY)
THE ENERGY
THAT POWERS OUR ENTIRE BEING
IS EITHER FEAR OR LOVE!
THE BIBLE - HEART
IDENTITY is generally synonymous
with the Bible’s use of the word “HEART.”
NEUROSCIENCE - THE BRAIN’S LIMBIC SYSTEM
IDENTITY is generally synonymous
with neuroscience’s use of the
LIMBIC SYSTEM of the brain
(fight, flight and freeze).
SYNONYMS OF IDENTITY
NEUROSCIENCE – LIMBIC SYSTEM
THEOLOGY – HEART
PSYCHOLOGY – IDENTITY
The healing balm for our wounds is only found in:
INTIMACY
with GOD,
OURSELVES
and OTHERS.
ONLY INTIMACY RESTORES IDENTITY!
RADIOACTIVE COMES FROM TWO WORDS: * “Radio,” which means access or transmission of radiant energy, or in a radius * “Active” which means “compelled movement.” * EXPRESSING RADIANT ENERGY THROUGH ACTIVATIONS!
- I’m waking up
- Feeling it in my bones
- Enough to make my systems blow
- Welcome to the revolution, the new age
- I’m RADIOACTIVE!
LOVE
IS AN
ENERGY!
JOHN 15:9-12 TPT (Jesus said) I LOVE each of you with the same LOVE that the Father LOVES me. You must continually let my LOVE NOURISH YOUR HEARTS. 10 …for I continually live NOURISHED and EMPOWERED by his (the Father’s) LOVE. 11 My purpose for telling you these things is so that the JOY that I EXPERIENCE will FILL YOUR HEARTS with OVERFLOWING GLADNESS! 12 So this is my command: LOVE each other DEEPLY, as much as I have LOVED you.
GOD LOVES YOU
WITH ENERGY,
NOT JUST FORMALITY!
A RENEWED MIND
AND A RESTORED SOUL
ARE POWERED BY
ACTIVATIONS OF LOVE!
1 JOHN 4:16 NKJV …GOD IS LOVE, and he who ABIDES IN LOVE abides in God, and God in him.
LOVE IS THE
ENERGY FORCE
WITHIN
GOD’S NATURE!
MATTHEW 22:37-39 TPT Jesus answered him, “LOVE the Lord your God with every PASSION of your heart, with all the ENERGY of your being, and with EVERY THOUGHT that is within you.” … “LOVE your FRIEND (NEIGHBOR) in the same way you LOVE YOURSELF.”
GALATIANS 5:6 NKJV (Paul said) … but FAITH Working (GR – energeo = energy) through LOVE.
WE ARE NEVER HEALTHIER,
OR MORE LIKE GOD,
OR IN TOUCH WITH HIS NATURE,
THAN WHEN WE ACTIVATE LOVE
TOWARDS OTHERS, AND EVEN SELF!
MY VALUE AND IDENTITY
IS IN THE CAPACITY TO LOVE!
LOVE IS THE PUREST ESSENCE OF SELF,
AND IS THE FOUNDATION FOR ALL
PERSONALITY, GIFTINGS AND TALENTS!
OUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS,
TALENTS AND ABILITIES
BECOME RADIANT WHEN
ENERGIZED BY LOVE!
1 CORINTHIANS 13:3 NKJV And though I BESTOW ALL MY GOODS to feed the poor, and though I GIVE MY BODY TO BE BURNED, but HAVE NOT LOVE, it PROFITS me nothing.
LOVE IS AN
ENERGY FORCE,
NOT
A BEHAVIOR!
LOVE IS RADIANT ENERGY
TO GOD, TO YOURSELF AND TO OTHERS
… EVEN YOUR ENEMIES!
1 CORINTHIANS 8:1 NKJV Knowledge puffs up, but LOVE EDIFIES (GR - builds).
LOVE WAS NEVER INTENDED
TO BE A FORM OR PRETENSE!
LOVE REALLY,
WITH REALISM, WITH ABANDON,
STEPPING THROUGH FEAR AND
TREPIDATION, BREAKING THROUGH
FORM AND PRESENTATION!
DON’T ESCAPE THE MOMENT,
WHATEVER IT IS,
TO BE FULLY PRESENT!
1 PETER 1:22 NKJV (Peter said) …obeying the truth through the Spirit in SINCERE LOVE of the brethren, LOVE ONE ANOTHER FERVENTLY with a PURE HEART…
1 PETER 1:22 NKJV (Peter said) …obeying the truth through the Spirit in SINCERE (GR = anupokritos – without hypocrisy – not pretending – not being an actor) LOVE (GR = philadelphia – emotional love) of the brethren, LOVE ONE ANOTHER (GR = allelon – mutual – reciprocal) FERVENTLY (GR = ektenos – ardent – deep – intense – not formal) with a PURE (GR = katharos – without protective or prejudiced walls/barriers) HEART…
LOVE RADIATES PAST
THE TRAUMA WOUND,
AND BEAMS HEALING
FROM THE HEART!
INTIMACY
(in to me I see)
INTIMACY IS…
SHARED EXPIENCE
MOMENTS OF MUTUAL CONNECTION
SPARKLING PRESENCE
IF YOU WANT A FUN LIFE,
HAVE A FERVENT LOVE LIFE!
WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY?
JOHN 15:9-12 TPT (Jesus said) I LOVE each of you with the same LOVE that the Father LOVES me. You must continually let my LOVE NOURISH YOUR HEARTS. 10 …for I continually live NOURISHED and EMPOWERED by his (the Father’s) LOVE. 11 My purpose for telling you these things is so that the JOY that I EXPERIENCE will FILL YOUR HEARTS with OVERFLOWING GLADNESS! 12 So this is my command: LOVE each other DEEPLY, as much as I have LOVED you.
Happiness is not
a final destination,
but a barometer
of how
functionally aligned
we are to
God, ourselves and others.
CALL TO ACTION Out of everything we talked about today, what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take? (Pull out your phone and email it to yourself right now. NAME THEM!)
PRACTICE BEING RADIOACTIVE THIS WEEK TO Hostile
Dismissive
Rejecting
Disinterested
Hurtful
PEOPLE!
RADIOACTIVE * Are you happy? * Is life fun? * Do you breathe in the moments of life, or are you discontented by the present as you pursue the future?
Every January the gyms fill up, the diet programs kick in and people focus on annual plans. Goals of becoming healthier, fulfilling dreams, fixing broken relationships, and going for “the gold medal” are front and center. What if God could take us on a journey of discovery, showing us the power that is deep inside? What if we knew we were created RADIOACTIVE? What if we lived in every moment, compelled to action by an energy previously unknown?
Jesus shared an idea that often is overlooked, or even overcomplicated; he shared the power of love. He made love to be the greatest and most important of all human pursuits. He showed love as something beyond a discipline, or a behavior. He showed love as an energy, a force of God’s nature within every human heart. In RADIOACTIVE we will see the emphasis Jesus placed on this idea of love, it’s power and the profound impact it has on extensive happiness, living in every moment being fully alive.
TODAY’S EPISODE: WHERE WE HURT, WE HARDEN! WHERE WE HARDEN, WE BECOME UN-HAPPY!! RESPONSES TO REJECTION 1. I MUST BE THE PROBLEM. 2. I’LL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO BE ACCEPTED. (ANXIOUS) 3. I’LL NEVER TAKE A RISK AGAIN. (SHUT DOWN) 4. I’LL NEVER LET PEOPLE HURT ME AGAIN. (AVOIDANT) 5. I RAGE!
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN A FIRECRACKER-DUD TO OTHERS? RADIOACTIVE COMES FROM TWO WORDS: * RADIO: Access or transmission of radiant energy, or in a radius * ACTIVE: Compelled movement.
EXPRESSING RADIANT ENERGY
THROUGH ACTIVATIONS!
EPHESIANS 3:14-20 AMP [Paul prayed] I bow my knees [in reverence] before the Father [of our Lord Jesus Christ]... 16 May He grant you out of the riches of His glory, to be STRENGTHENED and SPIRITUALLY ENERGIZED with POWER through His Spirit IN YOUR INNER SELF, [indwelling your INNERMOST BEING and personality],17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through your faith. And may you, having been [DEEPLY] ROOTED and [SECURELY] GROUNDED in LOVE, 18 be fully capable of comprehending with all the saints (God’s people) the WIDTH and LENGTH and HEIGHT and DEPTH of His LOVE [FULLY EXPERIENCING that AMAZING, ENDLESS LOVE]; 19 and [that you may come] to know [practically, through PERSONAL EXPERIENCE] the LOVE OF CHRIST which far surpasses [mere] knowledge [without EXPERIENCE], 20 Now to Him who is ABLE TO [carry out His purpose and] DO SUPERABUNDANTLY MORE than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], ACCORDING TO HIS POWER that is AT WORK (GR – energeo = energy) WITHIN US…
ROMANS 5:5 NKJV Now hope does not disappoint, because the LOVE of God has been POURED OUT IN OUR HEARTS by the HOLY SPIRIT who was given to us.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:3 NKJV And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but HAVE NOT LOVE, it PROFITS me nothing.
1 JOHN 4:16 NKJV And we have known and believed the LOVE that God has for us. GOD IS LOVE, and he who ABIDES IN LOVE abides in God, and God in him.
EPHESIANS 3:20 AMP Now to Him who is ABLE TO [carry out His purpose and] DO SUPERABUNDANTLY MORE than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely BEYOND our greatest PRAYERS, HOPES, or DREAMS], ACCORDING TO HIS POWER that is AT WORK (GR – energeo = energy) WITHIN US…
I PETER 3:8-11 NLT 8 Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. LOVE each other as brothers and sisters. Be TENDERHEARTED, and keep A HUMBLE ATTITUDE. 9 Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it (NKJV – “you will INHERIT a BLESSING” // GR – “to PARTAKE of HAPPINESS”). 10 For the Scriptures say, “If you want to ENJOY LIFEand SEE MANY HAPPY DAYS, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. 11 Turn away from evil and DO GOOD (GR – FEELING AWAKENED by what is JOYFUL and HAPPY). Search for peace, and work to maintain it.
WHERE WE HURT, WE HARDEN! WHERE WE HARDEN, WE BECOME UN-HAPPY!! HAPPINESS IS NOT WHO OR WHAT WE CONTROL; IT IS ACTIVATING DIVINE ENERGY IN EVERY MOMENT! CALL TO ACTION Out of everything we talked about today, what is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take? (Pull out your phone and email it to yourself right now. NAME THEM!)
PRACTICE BEING RADIOACTIVE THIS WEEK TO Hostile
Dismissive
Rejecting
Disinterested
Hurtful
PEOPLE!
BLAINE BARTEL THIS SUNDAY For the past several years, Blaine Bartel, with the support of his wife Lori, has been actively coaching men who are struggling with porn and sexual brokenness. He has discovered a gift of grace to help these friends do the work of resurrection and reinvent a life previously unimagined.
You may be aware of some of Blaine’s accomplishments.
- He was considered the “Youth Pastor of America.”
- He hosted a national television show for more than a decade.
- He became a best selling author.
- He led the largest weekly student gathering in America.
This is what the public knew about Blaine.
What they didn’t know is that Blaine hated who he had become. Behind the curtains of his success was a man who was overcome by an unbreakable sexual addiction, severe clinical depression and marital brokenness. Eight years ago, he walked away from everything he had built and accomplished in an attempt to try to discover a life that was worth living.
After a desperate attempt to end his life, he was placed in an addiction recovery center in Phoenix, Arizona for 30 days. After hearing Blaine’s story, Dr. Ralph Earle, one of the nations leading sexual addiction specialists, told Blaine, “You are the poster child for sexual addiction. I honestly don’t know if you will ever get free.”
This was the beginning of a radical life transformation that would demand all Blaine had to give in order to fully encounter the resurrected life. Today, if you ask Blaine what his greatest achievement is, he will share this extraordinary seven year drama of the dusty, winding road up the mountain of recovery.
Blaine and Lori reside in Tulsa, Oklahoma, love hanging out with family and friends and have a weakness for reality shows. Along with his speaking and coaching, Blaine is a writer and has recently released a brand new book entitled, “Death by a Thousand Lies.”
A CHRISTMAS STORY Christmas is finally here! Christ followers everywhere will gather to remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus. So what is up with the Christmas story. Everybody has seen the Nativity scene. There is a donkey, a shepherd, a few sheep, 3 kings, a treasure chest, Daddy Joseph, Mama Mary, and baby Jesus in a cradle-nest made of tree branches. Oh, and don’t forget the barn that looks like a thatch bus stop. What does it mean? Are the stories behind the story interesting? Does any of it matter?
The Biblical Christmas story is like watching a mystery theater; every scene has a twist. As this puzzling drama unfolds, the characters emerge with fascinating pasts. They are players injected into God’s plan to solve the suffering of the ages. This suspenseful piecing together of the Nativity’s characters and circumstances makes the birth of Jesus a thriller, leaving each of us a newfound purpose and power to make a difference. In A Christmas Story, we shift our eyes from surface ideas of the manger to reveal God’s ultimate masterpiece of Redemption.
TODAY’S MESSAGE LUKE 2:1-20 NKJV And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in SWADDLING cloths, and laid Him in a MANGER, because there was no room for them in the INN (guest chamber). 8 Now there were in the same country SHEPHERDS living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an ANGEL of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the SIGN TO YOU: You will find a Babe wrapped in SWADDLING CLOTHS, 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, goodwill toward men!” 15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
PROPHECIES * 40 AUTHORS * 1,500 YEARS * 66 BOOKS * 1,000+ PROPHECIES * 300+ MESSIANIC PROPHECIES
PROPHECIES – THE ODDS * KILLED BY LIGHTNING STRIKE (2x107) * BECOMING PRESIDENT (1x107) * METEORITE LAND ON HOUSE (1x1014) * 8 MESSIANIC PROPHECIES FULFILLED (1x1028)
OUTLINE NOTES * PROPHICIES * JOSEPH * MARY * MARY AND JOSEPH * BETHLEHEM * SHEPHERDS * JERUSALEM – TEMPLE BABY DEDICATION * MAGI * KING HEROD * MAGI * JESUS * YOU
1 JOHN 4:17 NKJV Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because AS JESUS CHRIST IS, SO ARE WE in this world.
CALL TO ACTION What is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
SHARE THE CHRISTMAS STORY!
TODAY’S MESSAGE PSALM 37:4-6 TPT Make God the utmost delight and pleasure of your life, and HE WILL PROVIDE FOR YOU WHAT YOU DESIRE THE MOST. 5 Give God the right to direct your life, and as you trust him along the way YOU’LL FIND HE PULLED IT OFF PERFECTLY! 6… He will manifest AS YOUR JUSTICE, as sure and strong as the noonday sun.
QUESTION At the end of the holidays,
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO HAVE EXPERIENCED,
or how do you want to have benefited?
PRINCIPLE Expenditures/gifts should
HONOR the joy in relationships,
not BE the joy in relationships.
Gifts CELEBRATE relationships,
not FIX relationships!
FACT WHERE DOES STRESS COME FROM?
Stress is rooted in our
desire to control
something or someone!
_______________ PATH TO BEING STRESS FREE 1. SELF AWARENESS – ATTUNEMENT PSALM 77:6 KJV [Asaph said in a time of deep distress] … COMMUNE with MINE OWN HEART: and my SPIRIT made DILIGENT SEARCH.
PRINCIPLE You cannot CHANGE,
or FEEL DIFFERENTLY about,
what you DO NOT ACKNOWLEDGE.
You have to NAME IT to TAME IT!
PRINCIPLE Often we AREN’T BATTLING
the OTHER PERSON,
but our own WOUND-BASED NARRATIVE.
- SELF-QUESTION #1 - “What does this person, group, event or environment DO TO ME?”
- SELF-QUESTION #2 - “How long does it take me TO GET BACK TO ZERO after I have been with this person, group, event or environment?”
- SELF-QUESTION #3 - “What JUSTIFICATIONS do I wrestle with?”
- SELF-QUESTION #4 - “Why do I KEEP THINKING about this? Why do I get DYSREGULATED EMOTIONALLY with this?”
- SELF-QUESTION #5 - “Is this GOOD STEWARDSHIP of my energies?”
_______________ 2. DIFFERENTIATION – BOUNDARIES DEFINITION BOUNDARIES, in a broad sense, are the lines or things that mark a LIMIT, BOUND, or BORDER. Boundaries are the realization of our own person apart from others. This sense of separateness forms the basis of personal identity.
PRINCIPLE GROWTH in BOUNDARIES means growth in…
EMOTIONAL Intelligence
SOCIAL Intelligence
_______________ 3. LOVE – GENEROSITY OF HEART COLOSSIANS 3:12-14 TPT … Be MERCIFUL as you endeavor to UNDERSTAND OTHERS, and be compassionate, showing kindness toward all. Be gentle and humble, unoffendable in your patience with others. 13 TOLERATE THE WEAKNESSES of those in the family of faith, FORGIVING one another in the same way you have been graciously forgiven by Jesus Christ. … 14 For LOVE IS SUPREME and MUST FLOW THROUGH each of these VIRTUES. Love becomes the mark of TRUE MATURITY.
HOW TO STAY HAPPY! REMEMBER WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ALL ABOUT:
LOVE is the answer to HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
_______________ CALL TO ACTION What is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
- Begin soothing/spiritual/self-care exercises
- Invite safe family/friends into your stress
- Decide in advance what you want each event experience to be
- Prepare to limit exposure to dysregulating experiences
- Take the Science of Freedom Workshop to understand yourself
- Trigger the energy of love generously flowing from the heart
TODAY’S MESSAGE QUESTION #1 At the end of the holidays, WHAT DO YOU WANT TO HAVE EXPERIENCED, or how do you want to have benefited? FACT During the holidays
Americans are notorious
TO SPEND INORDINATE AMOUNTS OF MONEY
on things that later
INDUCE INORDINATE AMOUNTS OF STRESS!
_______________ QUESTION #2 What is a HEALTHY PERSPECTIVE for relating with money that will support long-term emotional peace? PRINCIPLE Money will either be YOUR servant,
or YOU will become money’s slave!
PRINCIPLE Money will either be YOUR servant,
or YOU will become money’s slave!
---------
YOU get to decide!
Matthew 6:21, 24 KJV(Jesus said) For where your TREASURE is, there your HEART will be also … 24 No one can SERVE TWO MASTERS; for either he will HATE the one and LOVE the other, or else he will be LOYAL (DEVOTED) to the one and DESPISE the other. You cannot serve GOD and MAMMON.
SYNONYMS SERVE God, LOVE God, DEVOTE to God
OR
SERVE money, HATE (not love) God, DESPISE God
REFLECTION Which of these statements
create more anxiety in you?
---------
“There is no God?”
“There is no money?”
PRINCIPLE MONEY decisions
are
SPIRITUAL decisions!
PRINCIPLE Expenditures should
HONOR the joy in relationships,
not BE the joy in relationships.
_______________ QUESTION #3 To stay healthy do I have to commit to a SPENDING PLAN? WHAT IS A BUDGET? A budget is a SPENDING PLAN,
rather than a SPENDING REACTION.
A budget is FORWARD THINKING,
NOT paying off PAST STUFF.
WHAT A BUDGET IS NOT… * Having money left over at the end of the month. * Having the ability to pay my bills on time. * Having the ability to pay my credit card off every month. * Using the money I have today to spend on discretionary things when I know other large essential expenditures are coming due in the months ahead.
_______________ QUESTION #4 To be healthy emotionally HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND for the holidays? AVERAGE CHRISTMAS SPENDING 1.6% OF HOUSEHOLD INCOME
(REASONABLE – DÉCOR, MEALS, GIFTS, ETC.)
$25,000 = $400
$50,000 = $800
$100,000 = $1,600
_______________ QUESTION #5 How do I manage the financial stress I FEEL RIGHT NOW? PRINCIPLES * Emotional self-care * Differentiation * Relational connections * Love/serve the less fortunate
_______________ CALL TO ACTION What is your ONE NEXT STEP that you need to take?
- Aggressively begin soothing/self-care exercises
- Invite family/friends into your stress
- Serve the less fortunate
- Create a budget (before 2019)
- Go to a Financial Peace Seminar
- Begin tithing (10%), or start percentage giving towards 10%
- Reduce debt by selling something
- Get a second job (income stream)
MERRY STRESSMAS * What stresses you out during the Christmas season? * What turns the celebration of Christ into an emotional meltdown? * Maybe it is schedules, budgets and/or toxic interpersonal situations?
The good news is that there tools, principles and wisdom to rise above these situations. When we approach stress with a “victim’s mentality” we are vulnerable to biological, mental and relational viruses. However, when we approach stress as a challenge to overcome, we enter with the health of a Jesus-disciple.
Join us for our annual holiday preaching series at LifePointe called, MERRY STRESSMAS, DON’T LET THE GRINCH STEAL CHRISTMAS. Discover with us how to reach the other side of the holidays being healthy, happy and holy!
TODAY’S MESSAGE STRESSORS * WEATHER * EVENT PLANNING * FOODS * FAMILY * TRAUMA MEMORIES * MONEY * COMPARISONS
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS * OUTDOOR DÉCOR * INDOOR DÉCOR * ELF ON SHELF * SANTA * GIFTS * COMMUNITY SVC * CHARITIES * PARTIES * MEMORIES * LIGHTS TOURS * FAMILY PHOTOS * CHRISTMAS EVE * CHRISTMAS DAY
EPHESIANS 5:15-17 NKJV See then that you walk CIRCUMSPECTLY (GR – exactly, accurately and diligently), not as fools but as WISE, 16 redeeming the TIME, because the days are EVIL (GR – full of labors, annoyances and hardships; pressed and harassed). 17 Therefore do not be UNWISE (GR – without reflection; acting rashly), but understand what the WILL (GR – commands, precepts and pleasures of) of the Lord [is].
Manage your TIME and you will manage your LIFE; abdicate to CHAOS and chaos will manage YOU! WHAT TO DO? 1 - DECIDE what YOU WANT at the end of the HOLIDAYS
- IDENTIFY what is MOST IMPORTANT
- DEFINE desired SHARED EXPERIENCES
- SEEK first things FIRST
- DECIDE for DISTRACTION FREE
- BE in the MOMENT
2 - COMMIT to HEALTHY PRINCIPLES of TIME MANAGEMENT
- Make a PLAN - Own the CALENDAR
- ROCKS, Pebbles and Sand
- Manage ENERGY
- Recognize the TRADE-OFFS
- Say “NO” – Be EXACT
IMPORTANT/URGENT MATRIX CALL TO ACTION Write at least one sentence this week that answers these questions:
What SHARED EXPERIENCES do I want to have had by the end of the holiday season? What do I desire to FEEL and KNOW when it is all over?
TODAY’S PREACHING PROMISES, PROMISES? GUARANTEES? GOOD INTENTIONS? _______________ BIBLICAL PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS (Not future GOOD INTENTIONS or MYTHICAL FANTASIES)
_______________ 31,173 Scriptures / 30,000+ Promises? / 8810 Promises _______________ HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a BETTER COVENANT, which was established on BETTER PROMISES.
1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-25 NKJV …the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took BREAD; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is MY BODY which is BROKEN FOR YOU; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the CUP (OF WINE) after supper, saying, "This cup is the NEW COVENANT in MY BLOOD. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me."
HEBREWS 9:22 NKJV And according to the law almost all things are PURIFIED WITH BLOOD, and without SHEDDING OF BLOOD there is NO REMISSION (OF SIN).
_______________ ADAM GENESIS 2:7 NKJV And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the BREATH OF LIFE; and man became a LIVING BEING.
LEVITICUS 17:11, 14 NKJV For the LIFE OF THE FLESH [IS] IN THE BLOOD, … for it [is] the BLOOD [that] makes ATONEMENT for the soul. ... 14 for [it is] the LIFE of all flesh. Its BLOOD sustains its LIFE.
_______________ EVE GENESIS 2:18, 21-23 NKJV And the LORD God said, "[It is] not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him." ... 21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his RIBS, and closed up the flesh in its place. 22 Then the RIB which the LORD God had taken from man HE MADE INTO A WOMAN, and He brought her to the man. 23 And Adam said: "This [is] now BONE OF MY BONES And FLESH OF MY FLESH; She shall be called Woman, Because she was taken out of Man."
_______________ ADAM AND EVE SINNED GENESIS 2:16-17 NKJV And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, … 17 "but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely DIE."
- ROMANS 6:23 NKJV For the wages of sin [is] DEATH…
GENESIS 3:21 NKJV Also for Adam and his wife the LORD God made tunics of SKIN, and clothed them.
LEVITICUS 17:11, 14 NKJV For the LIFE OF THE FLESH [IS] IN THE BLOOD, … for it [is] the BLOOD [that] makes ATONEMENT for the soul. ... 14 for [it is] the LIFE of all flesh. Its BLOOD sustains its LIFE.
_______________ CAIN AND ABEL GENESIS 4:2-5 NKJV …Now ABEL was a keeper of SHEEP, but CAIN was a tiller of the GROUND. 3 And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an OFFERING OF THE FRUIT of the ground to the LORD. 4 Abel also brought of the FIRSTBORN OF HIS FLOCK and of their fat. And the LORD RESPECTED ABEL and his offering, 5 but He DID NOT RESPECT CAIN and his offering.
HEBREWS 11:4 NKJV BY FAITH ABEL offered to God a MORE EXCELLENT SACRIFICE than CAIN…
_______________ ABRAHAM - ISAAC HEBREWS 11:17-19 NKJV By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son], 18 of whom it was said, "In Isaac your seed shall be called," 19 concluding that GOD [WAS] ABLE TO RAISE [HIM] UP, EVEN FROM THE DEAD, from which he also received him in a figurative sense.
_______________ MOSES EXODUS 12:5, 7-8, 11-14 NKJV 'Your LAMB SHALL BE WITHOUT BLEMISH, a male of the first year. You may take [it] from the sheep or from the goats. ... 7 'And they shall take [some] of the BLOOD and put [it] on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat it. 8 'Then they shall EAT THE FLESH on that night; roasted in fire, with UNLEAVENED BREAD [and] with bitter [herbs] they shall eat it. ... 11 'And thus you shall eat it: [with] a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It [is] the LORD'S PASSOVER. 12 'For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I [am] the LORD. 13 'Now the BLOOD SHALL BE A SIGN for you on the houses where you [are]. And when I see the BLOOD, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy [you] when I strike the land of Egypt. 14 'So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall KEEP IT AS A FEAST to the LORD throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance.’
PSALM 105:37 NKJV He also brought them out with silver and gold, And [there was] NONE FEEBLE among His tribes.
_______________ JESUS GENESIS 3:15 NKJV (God said to the serpent, Satan) And I will put enmity Between you and the WOMAN, And between your seed and HER SEED; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel."
1 PETER 2:22, 24 NKJV (Jesus Christ) Who committed NO SIN, Nor was deceit found in His mouth; ... 24 who Himself BORE OUR SINS in His own body on the TREE, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness--by WHOSE STRIPES YOU WERE HEALED.
JOHN 19:30 NKJV …(Jesus said) "IT IS FINISHED!" And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
REVELATION 13:8 NKJV - 8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of THE LAMB SLAIN from the foundation of the world.
COLOSSIANS 1:14, 20 NKJV … in whom (Jesus Christ) we have REDEMPTION through His BLOOD, the forgiveness of sins. ... 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made PEACE through the BLOOD OF HIS CROSS.
1 PETER 1:18-19 NKJV …knowing that you were not REDEEMED with corruptible things, [like] silver or gold, from your aimless conduct [received] by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST, as of a LAMB WITHOUT BLEMISH and WITHOUT SPOT (Exodus 12:5).
_______________ BLOOD COVENANT = PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS _______________ TIME TO ACTIVATE Read/Pray/Live the PROMISES as COVENANT FACTS with God!
_______________ COMMUNION TABLE 1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-25 NKJV …the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took BREAD; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is MY BODY which is BROKEN FOR YOU; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the CUP (OF WINE) after supper, saying, "This cup is the NEW COVENANT in MY BLOOD. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me." 26 For as often as you eat this BREAD and drink this CUP, you PROCLAIM THE LORD'S DEATH till He comes. 27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks [this] cup of the Lord in an UNWORTHY MANNER will be guilty of the BODY and BLOOD of the Lord. 28 But let a man EXAMINE HIMSELF, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an UNWORTHY MANNER eats and drinks JUDGMENT to himself, NOT DISCERNING THE LORD'S BODY. 30 FOR THIS REASON many [are] WEAK and SICK among you, and many SLEEP (HAVE DIED).
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TODAY’S PREACHING PROMISES, PROMISES? GUARANTEES? GOOD INTENTIONS? _______________ HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a BETTER COVENANT, which was established on BETTER PROMISES.
_______________ BIBLICAL PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS (Not future GOOD INTENTIONS or MYTHICAL FANTASIES)
_______________ 31,173 Scriptures / 30,000+ Promises? / 8810 Promises _______________ WHAT IS A COVENANT A covenant is a binding agreement between two parties, based in both intimacy and law, promising blessing and cursing; and even death to the one who breaks it.
_______________ A COVENANT IS MORE THAN A CONTRACT 1. Agree to terms 2. Select representatives 3. Cut Blood 4. Exchange Clothes (Robes - Identity) 5. Exchange Belts and Weapons (Strength) 6. Walk unto Death (Sacrificial Animals) 7. Pronounce Blessings / Cursings (Oaths/Vows) 8. Seal of Covenant (Most Prized Possessions) 9. Exchange Names 10. Commemorate by a Memorial Sign (Piling stones, Planting Trees, Rainbows) 11. Have a Covenant Meal Together (Ingest Food = Ingest Me) 12. Exchange of Oldest Male Child
_______________ OLD COVENANT – NEW COVENANT HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a BETTER COVENANT, which was established on BETTER PROMISES.
_______________ OLD COVENANT * Protection * Reward * Great Name * Financially Prosperous * Legacy * Health
_______________ HEBREWS 8:9-10 NLT This COVENANT will not be like the ONE I MADE WITH THEIR ANCESTORS when I took them by the hand and led them out of the land of EGYPT. …10 But this is the NEW COVENANT I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS in their MINDS, and I will write them on their HEARTS. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
_______________ NEW COVENANT (BETTER) 1. Forgiveness 2. Born again 3. Complete righteousness 4. Eternal life 5. God inside us 6. God’s laws inside 7. Mind of Christ 8. Sons & daughters of God 9. Joint heirs with Christ 10. Jesus’ spiritual authority 11. Baptism/filled with Spirit 12. Do the works of Jesus (greater) 13. No more animal sacrifices 14. No more circumcision 15. One law of love 16. Saved by grace/faith 17. Protection 18. Reward 19. Great Name 20. Financially Prosperous 21. Legacy 22. Health
_______________ PSALM 89:34 NKJV My COVENANT I will NOT BREAK, nor alter the WORD (PROMISE) that has gone out of My lips.
HEBREWS 6:12-20 NKJV … imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the PROMISES. 13 For when God made a PROMISE to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, HE SWORE BY HIMSELF, 14 saying, "Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you." …17 Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of PROMISE the immutability of His counsel, confirmed [it] by an OATH, 18 that by TWO IMMUTABLE THINGS, in which it [is] IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD TO LIE, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the HOPE set before [us]. 19 This [HOPE] we have as an ANCHOR OF THE SOUL, both sure and steadfast…
_______________ TIME TO ACTIVATE Read/Pray/Live the PROMISES as COVENANT FACTS with God!
TODAY’S PREACHING PROMISES, PROMISES? GUARANTEES? GOOD INTENTIONS? _______________ BIBLICAL PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS (Not future GOOD INTENTIONS or MYTHICAL FANTASIES)
_______________ 31,173 Scriptures / 30,000+ Promises? / 8810 Promises _______________ HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a better COVENANT, which was established on better PROMISES.
_______________ WHAT IS A COVENANT A covenant is a binding agreement between two parties, based in both intimacy and law, promising blessing and cursing; and even death to the one who breaks it.
_______________ A COVENANT IS MORE THAN A CONTRACT 1. Agree to terms 2. Select representatives 3. Cut Blood 4. Exchange Clothes (Robes - Identity) 5. Exchange Belts and Weapons (Strength) 6. Walk unto Death (Sacrificial Animals) 7. Pronounce Blessings / Cursings (Oaths/Vows) 8. Seal of Covenant (Most Prized Possessions) 9. Exchange Names 10. Commemorate by a Memorial Sign (Piling stones, Planting Trees, Rainbows) 11. Have a Covenant Meal Together (Ingest Food = Ingest Me) 12. Exchange of Oldest Male Child
_______________ OLD COVENANT – NEW COVENANT HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a better COVENANT, which was established on better PROMISES.
HEBREWS 8:9-10 NLT This COVENANT will not be like the ONE I MADE WITH THEIR ANCESTORS when I took them by the hand and led them out of the land of Egypt. …10 But this is the NEW COVENANT I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the LORD: I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
_______________ WHAT IS THE OLD COVENANT? * Abraham’s Covenant * Moses’ Covenant
_______________ ABRAHAM’S COVENANT (GEN 12-17) * Protection * Reward * Great Name * Financially Prosperous * Legacy * Health
_______________ MOSES’ COVENANT (EX 19-34) * Protection * Reward * Great Name * Financially Prosperous * Legacy * Health
_______________ DEUTERONOMY 28:1-2, 15, 20-22, 25 NKJV (God said) If you FULLY OBEY the LORD your God and carefully follow all his COMMANDS I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. 2 All these BLESSINGS will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God:
4 Have a fertile womb; crops and livestock will be blessed
5 Your business will be blessed
7 The Lord will protect you from your enemies
8 You will be blessed in bank accounts and other storage houses of blessing; the circumstances of economies won’t matter to you
9 The LORD will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways.
13 The LORD will make you the head, not the tail.
_______________ DEUTERONOMY 28:15 NKJV However, if you DO NOT OBEY the LORD your God and do not carefully follow all his COMMANDS and decrees I am giving you today, all these CURSES will come upon you and overtake you:
- The Hebrew language, the original text here, does not have a “causative” verb but only a “permissive”. It should say, “God will allow…”
- Since the directive is clear, YOU hold the power to initiate blessings and YOU have the power to initiate the cursing. God ONLY allows what you and I initiate.
17 You won’t enjoy your work/labor
18 You won’t be able to get pregnant, and you will struggle in both finances and vocational successes
20 You will lack of peace, wisdom and clear decision-making and have no safety or protection or security of future
21 You will have sickness, disease and physical weakness
23 Nothing will be easy, no favor, no momentum
24 Opportunities will be hard, impossible, and hopeless
25 Shame, regret, oppression will be the norm along with fear, faithlessness, question, skepticism
26 You will experience isolation, aloneness, separation
28 You will have darkness, confusion, mental and psychological breakdowns
29 You will have complete failure and be victimized with nor oversight or justice
30 Your spouse will be given to sexual rape.
31 Your dreams will be taken from you
32 You will experience literal and spiritual child abductions
34 You will find yourself meditating on your regrets and intense emotions of injustice
36 Your religion will not make sense but be forced upon you
37 You will have embarrassment, shame, rejection, humiliation
38 Everything will be against you and nothing will work out for you
39 Unforeseen, pest-like things will spring up. When you do everything right, something will happen to undermine it.
40 You hopes will begin to get up. But in the last minute you will have them crushed.
41 You will be captivity to drugs, alcohol, to people/spouses who don’t like you, literal child abductions, kidnappings, etc.
42 New and multiplied problems will arise from places you will be surprised by
43 Everyone else gets promoted and are favored over you, while you continue to stagnate and find no favor
44 Others will be in control over you and have tentacles that harass your life
46 Your failure will not be merely natural, you will have miracle level and supernatural failure.
48 Your work and vocation will be intense with oppression
50 Life will have no compassion or empathy from anyone who has the human power to change it)
61 Any disaster that can be conceived will happen to you
_______________ GALATIANS 3:13-14, 29 NKJV CHRIST has REDEEMED us from the CURSE OF THE LAW, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the BLESSING OF ABRAHAM might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the PROMISE of the Spirit through faith. ... 29 And if you [are] CHRIST'S, then you are ABRAHAM'S SEED, and HEIRS according to the PROMISE.
_______________ TIME TO ACTIVATE Read/Pray/Live the PROMISES as COVENANT FACTS with God!
UNBREAKABLE PROMISE - NEW PREACHING SERIES * What is your promise for life and eternity? * What does God think about you? * Does God change in moods and seasons?
In UNBREAKABLE PROMISE we discover the power of a COVENANT. While contemporary ideas of a “promise” express future intentions, God has taken us back to the Cross of Christ where He swore by Himself. What that means is God isn’t bolstering hope around what He intends to do; He has committed His entire being and existence in what He has already done. For God to change His mind about you - about your future, or your daily nurture, or your freedom – He would have to self-destruct.
The power of this COVENANT, that Jesus has invited us into, is that we never have to question God’s will for our protection, health, strength, prosperity and contentment. The CALL on our lives will lead us to uncomfortable and inconvenient places, often surrounded with sufferings in obedience to God. However, the COVENANT has forever established our welfare as we fulfill the CALL. This series will change the way you think of God, yourself and the provisions He has generously provided!
TODAY’S PREACHING PROMISES, PROMISES? GUARANTEES? GOOD INTENTIONS? ___________
MODERN USE OF PROMISE = FOCUS ON THE FUTURE ___________
GOD’S PROMISES 31,173 SCRIPTURES 30,000+ PROMISES ??? 8810 PROMISES ___________
EXAMPLE PROMISES FROM GOD * FORGIVENESS - 1 JOHN 1:9 NKJV If we confess our SINS, He is faithful and just to FORGIVE us [our] sins and to CLEANSE US from all unrighteousness. * WISDOM - JAMES 1:5 NKJV If any of you lacks WISDOM, let him ask of God, who GIVES TO ALL LIBERALLY and without reproach, and it will be given to him. * PROVISION - PHILIPPIANS 4:19 NKJV And my God shall supply ALL YOUR NEED according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
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WHERE ARE PROMISES ROOTED? PSALM 89:34 NKJV My COVENANT I will NOT BREAK, nor alter the WORD (PROMISE) that has gone out of My lips.
HEBREWS 6:12-20 NKJV … imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the PROMISES. 13 For when God made a PROMISE to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, HE SWORE BY HIMSELF, 14 saying, "Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you." …17 Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of PROMISE the immutability of His counsel, confirmed [it] by an OATH, 18 that by TWO IMMUTABLE THINGS, in which it [is] IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD TO LIE, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the HOPE set before [us]. 19 This [HOPE] we have as an ANCHOR OF THE SOUL, both sure and steadfast…
2 THINGS: The PROMISE and the OATH (COVENANT)
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WHAT IS A COVENANT? A covenant is a binding agreement between two parties, based in both intimacy and law, promising blessing and cursing; and even death to the one who breaks it.
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3 KINDS OF COVENANTS 1. Business Contract 2. Power-Downward Agreement 3. Unconditional One-sided Oath
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REASONS TO COVENANT * Protection for Weaker Tribe * Business Partnership * Devoted Affection/Friendship
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COVENANT PROMISES – UNBREAKABLE PROMISES PSALM 89:34 NKJV My COVENANT I will NOT BREAK, nor alter the WORD (PROMISE) that has gone out of My lips.
HEBREWS 6:12-20 NKJV … imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the PROMISES. 13 For when God made a PROMISE to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, HE SWORE BY HIMSELF, 14 saying, "Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you." …17 Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of PROMISE the immutability of His counsel, confirmed [it] by an OATH, 18 that by TWO IMMUTABLE THINGS, in which it [is] IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD TO LIE, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the HOPE set before [us]. 19 This [HOPE] we have as an ANCHOR OF THE SOUL, both sure and steadfast…
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WHAT A PROMISE REALLY IS! PROMISES ESTABLISHED BY OATH IMPOSSIBLE TO LIE VOW OF DEATH ___________
COVENANT USE OF PROMISE = FOCUS ON THE PAST ___________ 1 JOHN 1:9 NKJV If we confess our SINS, He is faithful and just to FORGIVE us [our] sins and to CLEANSE US from all unrighteousness.
JAMES 1:5 NKJV If any of you lacks WISDOM, let him ask of God, who GIVES TO ALL LIBERALLY and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
PHILIPPIANS 4:19 NKJV And my God shall supply ALL YOUR NEED according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
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TIME TO ACTIVATE Read/Pray/Live the Promises as a Covenant Partner!
TODAY’S PREACHING 1 THESSALONIANS 5:19-21 KJV QUENCH (extinguish) NOT the (HOLY) SPIRIT. 20 DESPISE (displace or set aside, regard lightly, or not esteem) NOT prophesyings. 21 PROVE ALL THINGS; hold fast that which is good.
JOHN 16:7 NKJV [Jesus said] Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to YOUR ADVANTAGE that I go away; for if I do not go away, the HELPER (Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby) will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.
2 CORINTHIANS 13:14 MSG The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the INTIMATE FRIENDSHIP of the HOLY SPIRIT, be with all of you.
DESIRE FOR HIM 1 CORINTHIANS 12:1, 31 NKJV Now concerning SPIRITUAL [gifts] (things pertaining to and of the Holy Spirit), brethren, I do not want you to be IGNORANT: ... 31 But EARNESTLY DESIRE the best gifts…
1 CORINTHIANS 14:39-40 NKJV Therefore, brethren, DESIRE EARNESTLY to prophesy, and DO NOT FORBID to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
EARNESTLY DESIRE (covet) comes from the Greek word root ZELOS which means to be ZEALOUS or have warmth of feeling towards. It is an intense desire! Here it refers to a positive energy pocket.
CATEGORIES OF GIFTS 23 SPIRITUAL GIFTS
- 5 MINISTRY – OFFICES (FUNCTIONAL)
- 9 MOTIVATIONAL – GRACE TALENTS (FUNCTIONAL)
- 9 MIRACLE EMPOWERMENTS – CHARISMA – GRACE GIFTS (OPERATIONAL)
FUNCTIONAL GIFTS God designed you to fulfill a specific “function” in the church and gifted you accordingly. The MOTIVATIONAL and MINISTRY GIFTS that you POSSESS. These are gifts that are YOURS. They ARE PART OF WHO YOU ARE, a part of your personality. You operate in them all the time, intentionally or unintentionally.
14 FUNCTIONAL GIFTS
- 5 MINISTRY OFFICES (FUNCTIONAL) - Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor & Teacher
- 9 MOTIVATIONAL GRACE TALENTS (FUNCTIONAL) - Administration, Encouragement, Giving, Helps, Hospitality, Intercession, Leadership, Mercy, Service
OPERATIONAL GRACE GIFTS The operational gifts are available to all believers as opportunities arise. If God determines there is a need, and you are available, then God will partner with you in one of these gifts. YOU DO NOT “OWN” OPERATIONAL GIFTS. THEY ARE NOT PART OF YOUR MAKE-UP. THEY ONLY HAPPEN AS GOD SOVEREIGNLY WILLS (positive sovereignty).
3 REVELATION GIFTS
- Word of Knowledge
- Word of Wisdom
- Discerning of Spirits
3 POWER GIFTS
- Special Faith
- Gifts of Healings
- Working of Miracles
3 COMMUNICATION GIFTS
- Prophecy
- Tongues
- Interpretation of Tongues
1 CORINTHIANS 12:1-11 NKJV Now concerning SPIRITUAL GIFTS (operations of the Spirit), brethren, I do not want you to be IGNORANT… 4 There are DIVERSITIES OF GIFTS, but the same SPIRIT... 7 But the MANIFESTATION of the SPIRIT is given to EACH ONE for the profit of all: 8 for to one is given the WORD OF WISDOM through the Spirit, to another the WORD OF KNOWLEDGE through the same Spirit, 9 to another (SPECIAL) FAITH by the same Spirit, to another GIFTS OF HEALINGS by the same Spirit, 10 to another the WORKING OF MIRACLES, to another PROPHECY, to another DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, to another different kinds of TONGUES, to another the INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES. 11 But one and the same SPIRIT WORKS all these things, distributing to EACH ONE individually AS HE WILLS (as he determines – NIV).
COVET THESE GIFTS 1 CORINTHIANS 12:1, 31 NKJV Now concerning SPIRITUAL [gifts] (things pertaining to and of the Holy Spirit), brethren, I do not want you to be IGNORANT: ... 31 But EARNESTLY DESIRE the best gifts…
1 CORINTHIANS 14:39-40 NKJV Therefore, brethren, DESIRE EARNESTLY to prophesy, and DO NOT FORBID to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
TIME TO ACTIVATE 1. GENUINELY DESIRE all that the Holy Spirit is (no prejudice) 2. LEARN about the Holy Spirit & His Gifts (LifePointe Workshops) 3. TAKE STEPS of faith to encounter Him (LifePointe Revivals)
TODAY’S PREACHING 1 THESSALONIANS 5:19-21 KJV QUENCH (extinguish) NOT the (HOLY) SPIRIT. 20 DESPISE (displace or set aside, regard lightly, or not esteem) NOT prophesyings. 21 PROVE ALL THINGS; hold fast that which is good.
JOHN 16:7 NKJV [Jesus said] Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to YOUR ADVANTAGE that I go away; for if I do not go away, the HELPER (Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby) will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.
2 CORINTHIANS 13:14 MSG The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the INTIMATE FRIENDSHIP of the HOLY SPIRIT, be with all of you.
DESIRE FOR HIM 1 CORINTHIANS 12:1, 31 NKJV Now concerning SPIRITUAL [gifts] (things pertaining to and of the Holy Spirit), brethren, I do not want you to be IGNORANT: ... 31 But EARNESTLY DESIRE the best gifts…
1 CORINTHIANS 14:39-40 NKJV Therefore, brethren, DESIRE EARNESTLY to prophesy, and DO NOT FORBID to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
EARNESTLY DESIRE (covet) comes from the Greek word root ZELOS which means to be ZEALOUS or have warmth of feeling towards. It is an intense desire! Here it refers to a positive energy pocket.
THE HOLY SPIRIT WITHIN The primary work of the Holy Spirit WITHIN YOU is to SUPPORT you in your own personal life; guidance, joys, peace, refreshment, help, counsel, comfort, etc.
JOHN 14:16-17 KJV [Jesus said] And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 … for he dwelleth with you, and SHALL BE IN YOU.
2 CORINTHIANS 6:16 KJV [Paul said] …as God hath said, I WILL DWELL IN THEM, and WALK IN THEM; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
1 JOHN 4:4 KJV [John said] … greater is HE that is IN YOU, than he that is in the world.
THE HOLY SPIRIT UPON The primary work of the Holy Spirit UPON YOU is to EMPOWER you in WITNESSING Christ to your network of relationships. One of the most provocative, profound and heart-hitting statements used in Scripture about the Holy Spirit is “baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
ACTS 1:4-5 NKJV And being assembled together with them, (Jesus) He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the PROMISE of the Father, "which," He said, "you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly BAPTIZED with water, but you shall be BAPTIZED with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
MATTHEW 3:11-12 NIV (John the Baptist said) I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will BAPTIZE you with the HOLY SPIRIT and with FIRE.
ACTS 2:1-4 KJV And when the DAY OF PENTECOST was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it SAT UPON each of them. 4 And they were all FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, and began to speak with other tongues, as the SPIRIT GAVE THEM UTTERANCE.
Here we have another expression, “FILLED with the Holy Spirit,” used synonymously with “BAPTIZED with the Holy Spirit.”
ACTS 10:44-46 NKJV While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit FELL upon all those who heard the word. 45 And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been POURED OUT on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.
Peter himself describing this experience in Jerusalem, told the story in this way…
ACTS 11:15-17 NKJV And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit FELL UPON them, AS UPON US at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, 'John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be BAPTIZED with the Holy Spirit.' 17 If therefore God gave them the SAME GIFT as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?"
Here Peter distinctly called the experience which came to Cornelius and his household, being “BAPTIZED with the Holy Spirit.” Thus we see that these expressions are all synonymous.
- “…FILLED with the Holy Spirit…” (ACTS 2:4)
- “…the Holy Spirit FELL…” (ACTS 10:44)
- “…BAPTISM with the Holy Spirit…” (ACTS 11:16)
- “ …God gave them the SAME GIFT…” (ACTS 11:17)
Other expressions are also used to describe this blessing, such as …
- “…RECEIVE the Holy Spirit…” (ACTS 2:38; 19:2-3),
- “…the Holy Spirit CAME UPON them…” (ACTS 19:2-6)
- “…the GIFT of the Holy Spirit…” (HEB 2:4; 1 COR 12:4, 11, 13)
- “I send THE PROMISE of my Father upon you…” (LUKE 24:49; ACTS 1:4)
- And “CLOTHED WITH POWER from on high…” (LUKE 24:49)
BENEFITS OF “TONGUES” 1. It is a distinct communication with God 2. Insightful praying about God’s plan for life 3. Builds up, sharpens and edifies the inner life 4. Expands worship to God 5. Stimulates faith
Along with several more spiritual benefits.
HOW TO ACTIVATE 1. Genuinely desire all that the Holy Spirit is (no prejudice). 2. Ask God for the baptism in the Holy Spirit and all His gifts. 3. Take steps of faith to encounter Him (like you see in Scripture).
TODAY’S EPISODE NOTES: PRINCIPLE: As we grow in increased EXPECTATION FROM the relationship,
we are pressed for increased DEFINITION WITHIN the relationship.
PRINCIPLE: We aren’t prepared to COMMIT to a relationship
if we aren’t prepared to CLARIFY the DTR question.
REAL REASONS WE DON’T DEFINE THE RELATIONSHIP (DTR) 1. Unsure of what we really want 2. Fear of commitment 3. Unacknowledged desire for secular things 4. Fear of failure 5. Fear of other’s opinions 6. Fear it isn’t really real 7. Emotional connections are too difficult 8. Fear of weirdness
2 CORINTHIANS 13:14 NKJV The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the COMMUNION of the HOLY SPIRIT [be] with you all. Amen.
2 CORINTHIANS 13:14 MSG The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the INTIMATE FRIENDSHIP of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.
WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT? * HE’S A PERSON
JOHN 14:16-20 NKJV [Jesus said] And I will pray the Father, and He will give you ANOTHER HELPER (Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby) , that HE may ABIDE WITH YOU FOREVER-- 17 the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees HIM nor knows HIM; but you know HIM, for HE dwells WITH you and will be IN you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. 19 A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. 20 At that day you will know that I [am] in My Father, and YOU IN ME, and I IN YOU.
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HE HAS A PERSONALITY
- KNOWLEDGE
1 CORINTHIANS 2:11 For what man KNOWETH the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the SPIRIT OF GOD. + FEELING – EMOTION
ISAIAH 63:10 But they rebelled, and VEXED his HOLY SPIRIT
EPHESIANS 4:30 And GRIEVE not the HOLY SPIRIT of God
ROMANS 15:30 and for the LOVE of the SPIRIT,
1 THESSALONIANS 1:6 having received the word in much affliction, with JOY of the HOLY GHOST: + WILL
1 CORINTHIANS 12:11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame SPIRIT, dividing to every man severally as HE WILL. * HE HAS ACTIONS THAT ARE DESCRIPTIVE OF A PERSON
Here the Holy Spirit is set before us, not as an impersonal enlightenment that comes to our mind, but as a person who searches and whispers out of the depths of His own wisdom.
- KNOW THE HOLY SPIRIT AS A PERSON
2 CORINTHIANS 13:14 NKJV The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the COMMUNION of the HOLY SPIRIT [be] with you all. Amen.
2 CORINTHIANS 13:14 MSG The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the INTIMATE FRIENDSHIP of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.
HUNGER FOR HIM 1 THESSALONIANS 5:19-21 KJV QUENCH (extinguish) NOT the SPIRIT. 20 DESPISE (displace or set aside, regard lightly, or not esteem) NOT prophesyings. 21 PROVE ALL THINGS; hold fast that which is good.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:1, 31 NKJV Now concerning SPIRITUAL [gifts] (things pertaining to and of the Holy Spirit), brethren, I do not want you to be IGNORANT: ... 31 But EARNESTLY DESIRE the best gifts…
1 CORINTHIANS 14:39-40 NKJV Therefore, brethren, DESIRE EARNESTLY to prophesy, and DO NOT FORBID to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
EARNESTLY DESIRE (covet) comes from the Greek word root ZELOS which means to be ZEALOUS or have warmth of feeling towards. It is an intense desire! Here it refers to a positive energy pocket.
BE ATTUNED TO HIM - HAVE EARS TO HEAR REVELATION 2:7 NKJV (Jesus said) He who has an ear, let him hear WHAT THE (HOLY) SPIRIT SAYS to the churches…
MATTHEW 13:14-16 NKJV (Jesus said) And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: “HEARING you will hear and shall not understand, And SEEING you will see and not perceive; 15 For the HEARTS of this people have grown DULL. [Their] ears are HARD OF HEARING, And their EYES THEY HAVE CLOSED, Lest they should SEE with [their] eyes and HEAR with [their] ears, Lest they should UNDERSTAND WITH [THEIR] HEARTS and turn, So that I should heal them.” 16 But blessed [are] your eyes for they SEE, and your ears for they HEAR;
REAL REASONS WE DON’T DEFINE THE RELATIONSHIP (DTR) - HOLY SPIRIT 1. Unsure of what we really want 2. Fear of commitment 3. Unacknowledged desire for secular things 4. Fear of failure 5. Fear of other’s opinions 6. Fear it isn’t really real 7. Emotional connections are too difficult 8. Fear of weirdness
TIME TO ACTIVATE - DEFINE THE RELATIONSHIP TODAY 1. Unknown God 2. Distant Acquaintance 3. Close Acquaintance 4. General Friend 5. Close Friend 6. Covenant God
TODAY’S SERMON NOTES JOSHUA 1:8 NKJV (God said to Joshua) This BOOK OF THE LAW (Word of God) shall not depart from your MOUTH, but you shall MEDITATE in it day and night, that you may OBSERVE TO DO according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way PROSPEROUS, and then you will have GOOD SUCCESS.
HOW TO INTEGRATE, REGULATE AND ACTIVATE THINK IT HEAR IT
IMAGINE IT
DECLARE IT
[TILL I FEEL IT]
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To be BUILT means I must… INTEGRATE God’s Word into my THINKING
REGULATE God’s Word into my EMOTIONS
ACTIVATE God’s Word into my DOING
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TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… THINK it till I FEEL it,
FEEL it till I DO it,
and DO it till I LIVE it!
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DECLARATIONS – DECLARE IT! * FACING PRESSURE - I am of God and have overcome him (satan). For greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4) * FACING PRESSURE - I am far from oppression and fear does not come near me. (Isaiah 54:14) * FACING PRESSURE - No weapon formed against me will prosper, for my righteousness is of the Lord. But whatever I do will prosper for I’m like a tree that’s planted by the rivers of water (Isaiah 54;17; Psalm 1:3) * PEACE - The peace of God which passes all understanding keeps my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. And things which are good, and pure, and perfect, and lovely, and of good report, I think on these things. (Philippians 4:7-8) * REACH POTENTIAL - The Lord will perfect that which concerns me. (Psalm 138:8) * GAINING WISDOM - I am a new creation in Christ, I am His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Therefore I have the mind of Christ and the wisdom of God is formed within me. (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; I Corinthians 2:16) * FREEDOM/GUILT - And I, having received the gift of righteousness do reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17) * FREEDOM DARK - I am delivered from the power of darkness and I am translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. (Colossians 1:13) * REDEEMED KIDS - Great is the peace of my children for they are taught of the Lord. (Isaiah 54:13) * PROTECTION - No evil will befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over me and they keep me in all my ways, and in my pathway is life and there is no death. (Psalm 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28) * SECURE DECISIONS - I do follow the good shepherd and I know His voice and the voice of a stranger I will not follow. (John 10:4-5) * SECURE DECISIONS - The Lord enlarges my steps and establishes my thoughts. Therefore I will make healthy Holy Spirit-led decisions. (Psalm 18:36; Proverbs 16:3) * REDEEMED DECISIONS - The Lord redeems my life from destruction and crowns me with tender mercies. The Lord satisfies my mouth with good things. My steps are ordered by the Lord. Even if I were to fall down, He upholds me with his hand. (Ps 103:4; Ps 37:23-24) * SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY - The Lord makes my way prosperous and gives me good success. Jesus has redeemed me from the curse of sin and given me the grace (power in human weakness) to have unlimited available resources. (Joshua 1:8; Gal 3:13; 2 Cor 8:7)
TO DOWNLOAD A FULL DECLARATION TOOL CLICK HERE
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HOW WILL I…
BUILT
THINK IT?
FEEL IT?
DO IT?
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OTHER SCRIPTURES: PROVERBS 4:20-23 NKJV My son, give ATTENTION to my WORDS; Incline your EAR to my SAYINGS. 21 Do NOT let them DEPART from your EYES; KEEP them in the midst of your HEART; 22 For they [are] LIFE to those who find them, And HEALTH to all their flesh. 23 KEEP your HEART with all DILIGENCE, For out of it [spring] the issues of life.
PROVERBS 23:7 NKJV For as he THINKS IN HIS HEART, so [is] he…
JAMES 1:2-8 NKJV My brethren, count it all joy when you FALL INTO VARIOUS TRIALS, 3 knowing that the TESTING OF YOUR FAITH produces PATIENCE. 4 But let PATIENCE have [its] PERFECT WORK, that you may be PERFECT AND COMPLETE, LACKING NOTHING. 5 If ANY OF YOU LACKS wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ASK IN FAITH, with NO DOUBTING, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For LET NOT THAT MAN suppose that he will RECEIVE ANYTHING from the Lord; 8 [he is] a DOUBLE-MINDED MAN, UNSTABLE in ALL his ways.
JAMES 1:22-25 NKJV But be DOERS OF THE WORD, and NOT HEARERS ONLY, DECEIVING YOURSELVES. 23 For if anyone is a HEARER OF THE WORD and NOT A DOER, he is like a man OBSERVING his natural face in a MIRROR; 24 for he OBSERVES himself, goes away, and IMMEDIATELY FORGETS what kind of man he was. 25 But he who LOOKS INTO the perfect law of liberty and CONTINUES [IN IT], and is NOT A FORGETFUL HEARER but a DOER OF THE WORK, this one will be BLESSED in WHAT HE DOES.
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HOW WILL I…
BUILT THINK IT?
FEEL IT?
DO IT?
TODAY'S EPISODE NOTES TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… THINK it till I FEEL it, FEEL it till I DO it, and DO it till I LIVE it! ____________________ MANY PEOPLE … * SING the Word * TALK the Word * QUOTE the Word * ANALYZE the Word * Put the Word on magnets and BUMPER stickers * TATTOO the Word to their arms * STUDY the Word (Greek/Hebrew) * WRITE PAPERS on the Word * Set Word promises on SMALL CARDS around their house * Listen to the Word on Cd and MP3 * Go to CONFERENCES for the Word * YET still refuse TO DO THE WORD!
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BUILT THINK IT
FEEL IT
DO IT
[LIVE IT]
____________________
MARK 11:22-24 TPT Jesus replied, “Let the FAITH of God be in you! 23 Listen to the truth I speak to you: If someone says to this mountain with great FAITH and having no doubt, ‘Mountain, be lifted up and thrown into the midst of the sea,’ and BELIEVES that what he says will happen, it will be done. 24 This is the reason I urge you to BOLDLY BELIEVE for whatever you ask for in prayer—BELIEVE that you have received it and it will be yours.
Real Faith in the Word says, “If God says it is true, it is.” If God says He is the strength of my life, He is. So I go about doing my work because He is what He says He is, and I am what He says I am.”
- If He says I am STRONG, I am.
- If He says I have JOY, then I do.
- If He says SERVING OTHERS gives meaning to my life, then that is what I do.
- If He says that GIVING FINANCIAL to His Kingdom is what multiplies my own resources, then I give.
- If He says that MY FORGIVENESS OF OTHERS is a choice of obedience that frees up my life, then I forgive.
- If He says that I HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN and guilt has been removed, then I am forgiven and act as though no more guilt exist.
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HEBREWS 4:1-3 TPT Now God has offered to us the same promise of entering into his realm of resting in CONFIDENT FAITH. So we must be extremely careful to ensure that we all EMBRACE THE FULLNESS of that PROMISE and NOT FAIL TO EXPERIENCE IT. 2 For we have heard the good news of deliverance just as they did, yet THEY DIDN’T JOIN THEIR FAITH WITH THE WORD. Instead, what they heard didn’t affect them deeply, for they doubted. 3 For those of us who believe, FAITH ACTIVATES THE PROMISE and we EXPERIENCE the realm of confident rest!
2 KINDS OF UNBELIEF 1. Based on IGNORANCE God’s Word 2. Based on DISOBEDIENCE to integrate, regulate and activate God’s Word
- Choose not to THINK it
- Choose not to FEEL it
- Choose not to DO it
- Choose not to LIVE it
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JAMES 2:17-19 TPT So then FAITH that doesn’t involve ACTION is PHONY. 18 … I will show you FAITH by my WORKS (actions/activations) as proof that I BELIEVE. 19 You can BELIEVE all you want that there is one true God, that’s wonderful! But even the demons know (BELIEVE) this and tremble with fear before him, yet they’re unchanged—they remain demons.
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FAITH: CAN I DO THIS? ROMANS 12:3 NKJV For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to EACH ONE a MEASURE OF FAITH.
ROMANS 10:17 NKJV So then FAITH [COMES] BY HEARING, and hearing by the WORD OF GOD.
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TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… INTEGRATE God’s Word into my THINKING
REGULATE God’s Word into my EMOTIONS
ACTIVATE God’s Word into my DOING
TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… THINK it till I FEEL it,
FEEL it till I DO it,
and DO it till I LIVE it!
____________________
HOW WILL I…
BUILT THINK IT?
FEEL IT?
DO IT?
TODAY'S EPISODE NOTES IS GOD MAD AT YOU? Unimaginably?
Slightly?
Mildly?
Moderately?
Fervently?
____________________
TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… INTEGRATE God’s Word into my THINKING
REGULATE God’s Word into my EMOTIONS
ACTIVATE God’s Word into my DOING
____________________
BUILT THINK IT
FEEL IT
DO IT
____________________
MATTHEW 7:24-27 NKJV (Jesus said) Therefore WHOEVER hears these SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT his HOUSE ON THE ROCK: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who BUILT his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.
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RIGHTEOUSNESS MEANS… * I measure up * I meet the standard * I qualify * I’m enough * I’m worthy * I belong
____________________
EMOTIONAL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS the intensely painful thinking and feeling
- or the experience of believing -
that we are flawed and therefore unworthy
of God’s love and belonging;
it is fearing that God is mad at you!
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ROMANS 5:17 NKJV For if by (Adam’s original sin) death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.)
2 CORINTHIANS 5:21 NKJV For God made Jesus, who knew no sin, [to be] sin for us, that WE MIGHT BECOME (MADE) the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN HIM.
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EMOTIONAL RIGHTEOUSNESS is the ability to stand in God’s presence
without the sense of inferiority or sin consciousness.
____________________
RIGHTEOUSNESS is the ability to
think, feel and act
WITHOUT the sense of
guilt, shame, or condemnation.
____________________
RIGHTEOUSNESS is the ability to
think, feel and act
WITH the deep sense of
a clear conscience,
self-compassion
& confident boldness.
____________________
RIGHTEOUSNESS is our gift FROM GOD.
EMOTIONAL RIGHTEOUSNESS is our gift TO GOD.
____________________
TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… INTEGRATE God’s Word into my THINKING
REGULATE God’s Word into my EMOTIONS
ACTIVATE God’s Word into my DOING
____________________
HOW WILL I…
BUILT THINK IT?
FEEL IT?
DO IT?
BUILT - NEW PREACHING SERIES When the storms of life come, are you BUILT?
When the rains descend, floods rise and winds blow, are you unshakeable and unmovable; are you unstoppable?
Is the storm:
- A relationship
- A disappointment
- A fear
- A compulsive and destructive behavior
- An under resourced vision
- A biological weakness
TODAY'S EPISODE NOTES PSALM 127:1-5 NKJV (Solomon said) Unless the LORD BUILDS the house, They labor in vain who BUILD it;
- HOUSE – represents any and every sphere of your life:
- Spiritually/Walk with God/Prayer Life/Faith Life
- Physically/Health/Strength
- Mentally/Emotionally
- Socially/Relationally/Family/Single-ly
- Financially/Vocationally
- Ministerially
-
LABOR IN VAIN (Emptiness) - Putting confidence in things like:
- Working harder
- Talents
- Education
- Finances
- Politics
- Governments
- Who you know
-
QUESTION: HOW DOES THE LORD BUILD THE HOUSE?
_________________
MATTHEW 7:24-27 NKJV (Jesus said) Therefore WHOEVER hears these SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT his HOUSE ON THE ROCK: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who BUILT his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.
_________________
To be BUILT means I must integrate, regulate and activate GOD’S WORD into my thinking, feeling and doing! _________________
BUILT THINK IT
FEEL IT
DO IT
_________________
HEBREWS 11:3 NKJV By faith we understand that THE WORLDS WERE FRAMED by the WORD OF GOD, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
JOHN 1:1 NKJV In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with God, and the WORD WAS GOD.
2 PETER 1:4 NKJV (Peter said) … (we) have been given… exceedingly great and precious PROMISES, that through these you may be PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE, having escaped the corruption [that is] in the world through lust.
HEBREWS 4:12 NKJV For the WORD OF GOD [is] LIVING and POWERFUL…
_________________
GOD’S WORD IS A … * Piercing Sword * Revealing Mirror * Producing Seed * Shining Light * Consuming Fire * Shattering Hammer
_________________
ISAIAH 55:11 NKJV So shall MY WORD be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall NOT RETURN TO ME VOID, But IT SHALL ACCOMPLISH what I please, and IT SHALL PROSPER [in the thing] for which I sent it.
JEREMIAH 17:5-10 NKJV Thus says the LORD: "Cursed [is] the man who TRUSTS IN MAN and MAKES FLESH HIS STRENGTH, whose HEART DEPARTS FROM THE LORD… 9 "The HEART [IS] DECEITFUL above all [things], and desperately wicked; who can know it? 10 I, the LORD, SEARCH THE HEART, [I] test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the FRUIT OF HIS DOINGS.
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DIVINE GUIDANCE: CAN I BE CONFIDENT? JOHN 10:4-5, 27 NKJV (Jesus said) "And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for THEY KNOW HIS VOICE. 5 Yet they will by NO MEANS FOLLOW A STRANGER, but will FLEE FROM HIM, for they do not know the voice of strangers. … 27 My sheep HEAR MY VOICE, and I know them, and THEY FOLLOW ME.”
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FAVORED: WILL THINGS WORK OUT? 1 CORINTHIANS 15:10 NKJV But by the GRACE OF GOD I am what I am, and His GRACE toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but THE GRACE OF GOD [which was] with me.
_________________
FAITH: CAN I DO THIS? ROMANS 12:3 NKJV For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to EACH ONE a MEASURE OF FAITH.**
ROMANS 10:17 NKJV So then FAITH [COMES] BY HEARING, and hearing by the WORD OF GOD.**
_________________
HOW WILL I…
BUILT THINK IT?
FEEL IT?
DO IT?
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES: 1 Timothy 3:15 NIV (Paul said) If I am delayed, YOU WILL KNOW HOW people OUGHT TO CONDUCT themselves in GOD’S HOUSEHOLD, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and FOUNDATION of the TRUTH.
There is an APPROPRIATE WAY to engage and experience Church life, and there is an INAPPROPRIATE WAY. IT ALSO IMPLIES it MIGHT FEEL CHALLENGING to rise to the Biblical conduct being asked of you.
1 CORINTHIANS 14:33, 40 NKJV For God is not [the author] of CONFUSION but of PEACE, as IN all the CHURCHESof the saints. … 40 Let all things be done DECENTLY and in ORDER.
SUNDAYS – ARROW HEAD – 4 STAGES – COLOR HOW DO WE WANT PEOPLE TO EXPERIENCE LIFEPOINTE SUNDAYS? CONNECT
- KNOW – Guests matter
- FEEL – Anticipation
- DO - Trust
INVOVLE
- KNOW – Part of an adventure
- FEEL – Attached
- DO - Activate
CHALLENGE
- KNOW – Truth
- FEEL – Inspired
- DO – Change mind
SUNDAYS – OVERALL WINS * How many VISITORS came? How many VISITORS invited FRIENDS the following week? * How many attender STORIES of LIFE CHANGE are there?
1 CORINTHIANS 1:10 NLT (Paul said) I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to LIVE IN HARMONY with each other. Let there be NO DIVISIONS in the CHURCH. Rather, be of ONE MIND, UNITED in THOUGHT and PURPOSE.
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES: CHURCH MACRO PURPOSES * EVANGELISM * RELATIONSHIPS * SPIRITUAL TRAINING * MINISTRY * WORSHIP
SPIRITUAL PROGRESS BULLSEYE * What is the BULLSEYE? * What is our SYSTEM? * Who are we TARGETING?
MARK 16:15 AMP (Jesus said) GO into all the world and PREACH and PUBLISH openly the GOOD NEWS (the GOSPEL) to every creature [of the WHOLE HUMAN RACE].
- PREACH – kēryssō - To share with gravity and authority!
- GOSPEL – euaggelion – evangelism/evangelist – enthusiastic advocate (Websters)
1 CORINTHIANS 14:1, 23-25 NKJV (Paul said) PURSUE LOVE, and desire spiritual [gifts], but especially that you may prophesy. ... 23 Therefore if the WHOLE CHURCH comes together in one place, and all SPEAK WITH TONGUES, and there come in [those who are] UNINFORMED or UNBELIEVERS, will they not say that YOU ARE OUT OF YOUR MIND? SLIDE 15 24 But if all PROPHESY, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is CONVINCED BY ALL, he is CONVICTED BY ALL. 25 And thus the SECRETS OF HIS HEART ARE REVEALED; and so, falling down on [his] face, HE WILL WORSHIP GOD and report that GOD IS TRULY AMONG YOU.
1 CORINTHIANS 9:19-23 NKJV (Paul said) For though I am free from all [men], I have made myself a SERVANT to all, that I MIGHT WIN THE MORE; 20 and to the JEWS I became as a Jew, that I might WIN JEWS; …21 to those [who are] WITHOUT LAW (GREEKS/GENTILES), …that I might WIN THOSE [WHO ARE] WITHOUT LAW; 22 … I have become ALL THINGS TO ALL [MEN], THAT I MIGHT BY ALL MEANS SAVE SOME. 23 Now this I do for the GOSPEL'S sake, that I may be partaker of it WITH [YOU].
1 CORINTHIANS 1:22 NKJV (Paul said) For JEWS request a SIGN, and GREEKS seek after WISDOM;
SUNDAYS EVANGELISM - SUNDAY ARROW TEMPLATE GRAPHIC
QUESTIONS Do we have a TARGET audience and WHY? * Non-believers * Untaught believers * 25-35 year-olds * Educated * Higher Income * Skeptical * Social Media Matters * Wants it REAL
What is the BEST WAY to REACH THEM? * 47.06% - Friend/Family Invited Me * 21.57% - Web Search * 13.73% - TV Commercial * 13.73% - Other (Web Partner Referral) * 01.96% - Postcard * 01.96% - Street Banner/Drive By Campus
- Relational Investments
- Personal Invite
- Shared Social Media
- LifePointe Global Media Platform (Website, Podcast, Etc.)
- Bridge Events
- Conferences (Marriage, Parenting, etc.)
- Family Fun (Trunk/Treat)
- Community Service Projects
What if my friends come when I am SERVING? * Remember that fruitfulness is our mission * Let them see your enthusiasm for the role * Ask them to meet you after your “shift” for lunch * Have them text you when they arrive so you can hop over to say hello
What can I do NOW to help LP REACH OUT? * Love your church (live in harmony!) * Be an enthusiastic advocate (it’s all about attitude!) * Share relentlessly on social media * Surrender judgmentalism and political opinions * Utilize invite cards - invite weekly
How do we measure a WIN? * How many SOCIAL MEDIA posts and shares? * How many INVITE CARDS am I/are we giving? * How many VISITORS came?
1 CORINTHIANS 1:10 NLT (Paul said) I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to LIVE IN HARMONY with each other. Let there be NO DIVISIONS in the CHURCH. Rather, be of ONE MIND, UNITED in THOUGHT and PURPOSE.
**MOVING FORWARD THIS WEEK** * WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THIS?
- HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO HELP/SERVE OTHERS?
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES: 1 TIMOTHY 3:15 NIV (Paul said) If I am delayed, YOU WILL KNOW HOW people OUGHT TO CONDUCT themselves in GOD’S HOUSEHOLD, which is THE CHURCH of the living God, the pillar and FOUNDATION of the TRUTH.
CHURCH GOVERNMENT: CHURCH GOVERNMENT is THE SYSTEM
by which DECISIONS ARE MADE in a church;
a description of WHERE AUTHORITY RESIDES.
PURPOSE OF GOVERNMENT: The PURPOSE of GOVERNMENT is to LOVE
and SERVE the PEOPLE WELL.
UNDERSTANDING AUTHORITY: 1. AUTHORITY requires a SINGULAR HEAD 2. The AUTHORITY that is given is ANSWERABLE to the one WHO PLACES him/her in that position of AUTHORITY
LIFEPOINTE GOVERNANCE: * LED/RULED by a PASTOR, DIRECTOR & CAPTAIN system * PROTECTED by a BOARD of ELDER-MINISTERS (civil authority) * REVIEWED by ACCOUNTANTS
CIVIL AUTHORITY STRUCTURE: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Pastor
Bishops (Directors)
Deacons (Captains)
Saints/Disciples (Members)
QUESTIONS WE WILL ANSWER: 1. What does the Board of Directors do? Who serves on our Board of Directors? 2. What is the governing-authority structure for the finances of the church? Do we operate with a church budget? How are budgets decided? 3. Who sets the pastor’s salary? Who sets the staff salaries? Do we have a methodology for setting salaries? 4. Does LifePointe prepare for economic downturns with adequate reserves? 5. What is the status of our capital campaign funds, as well as our plans for acquiring a new campus? 6. Why do we not have full disclosure of church finances, including all spending decisions, to the church membership? 7. What happens if the pastor gets into error? 8. What are the succession plans if something happens to Pastor Patrick?
HOW TO APPLY:
- PRAY for your church leaders
- PRACTICE trust in God’s ultimate authority
- PROTECT the culture of the church
1 CORINTHIANS 1:10 NLT (Paul said) I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to LIVE IN HARMONY with each other. Let there be NO DIVISIONS in the CHURCH. Rather, be of ONE MIND, UNITED in THOUGHT and PURPOSE.
**MOVING FORWARD THIS WEEK** * WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THIS?
- HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO HELP/SERVE OTHERS?
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES MATTHEW 16:18-19 NLT (Jesus said) Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means 'rock'), and upon this rock I WILL BUILD my CHURCH, and all the POWERS OF HELL WILL NOT CONQUER IT. 19 And I will give you the KEYS OF THE KINGDOM of Heaven. Whatever you FORBID on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you PERMITon earth will be permitted in heaven."
CHURCH = EKKLESIA = ASSEMBLY = YOU! Church was never to be a merely…
- A building to GO TO,
- Or corporation to be CONTROLLED BY,
- Or the spiritual finish line to MARK OFF.
The church was to be the central powerhouse for a movement. Church is about leading people through the systems, relationships and tools that transform them at the deepest levels, and thereby transforming marriages, recovering addictions, healing relationships, empowering vocational aspirations, and breathing life into inspired-dreams; giving us a purpose to live… and die for.
When church attenders UNDERSTAND, INTEGRATE and APPLY THE FUNCTIONS of this movement, it changes their lives, then they too become the embodiment of the movement to outsiders. This is how we arrive at our commission, to go into all the world and preach the gospel.
HOW DOES THE CHURCH CHANGE LIVES? If our HEALTH, HAPPINESS and HOLISTIC FULFILLMENT hinges on our integration and ownership of CHURCH, shouldn’t we KNOW what a CHURCH should be about:
- Why does our CHURCH EXIST?
- What is its purpose? (My purpose?)
- How it is organized?
- How it is supposed to be LED?
- Who has the POWER TO CHOOSE what the identity, personality, style and genre a church is? (Who picks the carpet, music, what strategies will be implemented, etc.?)
- Who gets to decide what programs, ministries and activities a church has?
- Who decides the spiritual diet, core doctrines/statement of faith, and processes?
- How BUDGETS are determined? WHO decides it?
- Who determines the PASTOR’S AND STAFF SALARIES?
- Where is the ACCOUNTABILITY of its leaders?
- HOW IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE GOVERNED?
WHAT EXACTLY IS CHURCH GOVERNMENT? CHURCH GOVERNMENT is THE SYSTEM
by which DECISIONS ARE MADE in a church;
a description of WHERE AUTHORITY RESIDES.
TO WHOM DOES OUR CHURCH BELONG? MATTHEW 16:18-19 NLT (Jesus said) I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH…
1 CORINTHIANS 3:11 NLT (Paul said about the church) For no one can lay any FOUNDATION other than the one we already have--JESUS CHRIST.**
FORMS OF CHURCH RULE / GOVERNANCE * Episcopal (Denomination Ruled) * Presbyterian (Lay-Leader Ruled) * Congregational (Congregation-Democracy Ruled) * Pastoral (Pastor Ruled)
But which form PROMOTES THE BEST HEALTH and FRUITFULNESS???
THE FIRST THING – UNDERSTAND AUTHORITY QUESTION: HOW has the Lord ESTABLISHED
the CONCEPT and UNDERSTANDING
of AUTHORITY among HIS PEOPLE?
CHURCH GOVERNMENT is THE SYSTEM
by which DECISIONS ARE MADE in a church;
a description of WHERE AUTHORITY RESIDES.
In Jewish and Christian HISTORY, has GOD led His people by…
COMMITTEE (BY MULTIPLICITY of HEADSHIP)
OR SINGULAR AUTHORITY HEAD
ONE AUTHORITY – NOT PLURALITY OF EQUAL AUTHORITY * God (Does God lead as singular authority, or in plurality?)
ROMANS 13:1-2 NKJV … For there is NO AUTHORITY EXCEPT FROM GOD…
1 CORINTHIANS 11:3 NKJV …and the HEAD of CHRIST [is] GOD.
EPHESIANS 1:22 NKJV And HE (THE FATHER)… gave Him (JESUS) [to be] HEAD over ALL [THINGS] to the CHURCH…
- Abraham
- Moses
- Joshua
- Jesus
- Peter
- Paul
- James
METAPHORS OF THE CHURCH & HEADSHIP AUTHORITY MODELS * Body of Christ (One HEAD – CHIEF SHEPHERD) * Human Body (One HEAD – Two Heads is FREAK) * Marriage (One HEAD – “husband is HEAD of the wife…”) * Army (RANK and file – every soldier knows who they are accountable to) * Shepherd (One HEAD – Sheep don’t vote) * Family (One HEAD – kids don’t vote)
QUESTION: * Doesn’t the Bible show a plurality of leadership? (Elders, Bishops, Deacons, Etc.)
UNDERSTANDING PRINCIPLES OF AUTHORITY 1. Authority requires a SINGULAR HEAD 2. The AUTHORITY that is given is ANSWERABLE to the one WHO PLACES him/her in that position of AUTHORITY
CHURCH GOVERNANCE LINES OF AUTHORITY * The Father * Jesus * Pastor * Leading-Elders * Bishops * Deacons * Saints
ROMANS 13:1-2 NKJV … For there is NO AUTHORITY EXCEPT FROM GOD…
1 CORINTHIANS 11:3 NKJV …and the HEAD of CHRIST [is] GOD.
EPHESIANS 1:22 NKJV And HE (THE FATHER)… gave Him (JESUS) [to be] HEAD over ALL [THINGS] to the CHURCH…
1 PETER 5:2-4 NKJV (Peter wrote to multiple churches) SHEPHERD* the FLOCK of God which is among you, serving as OVERSEERS, NOT by compulsion but willingly, NOT for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 NOR as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 4 and when the CHIEF SHEPHERD* appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
QUESTIONS: * Is a Pastor-Ruled church the same as a dictatorship? * Does a Pastor-Ruled church mean there is no accountability? * Is a Pastor-Ruled church led by pride, arrogance and self-interests of the pastor?
LIFEPOINTE GOVERNANCE: * LED/RULED by a PASTOR, DIRECTOR & CAPTAIN system * PROTECTED by a BOARD of ELDER-MINISTERS (civil authority) * REVIEWED by ACCOUNTANTS
WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH THIS TODAY??? * PRAY for your Leaders * PRACTICE trust in God’s ultimate Authority * PROTECT the Culture of the Church
**MOVING FORWARD THIS WEEK** * WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THIS?
- HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO HELP/SERVE OTHERS?
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES MATTHEW 16:18-19 NLT (Jesus said) Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means 'rock'), and upon this rock I WILL BUILD my CHURCH, and all the POWERS OF HELL WILL NOT CONQUER IT. 19 And I will give you the KEYS OF THE KINGDOM of Heaven. Whatever you FORBID on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you PERMITon earth will be permitted in heaven."
CHURCH = EKKLESIA = ASSEMBLY = YOU! Church was never to be a merely…
- A building to GO TO,
- Or corporation to be CONTROLLED BY,
- Or the spiritual finish line to MARK OFF.
The church was to be the central powerhouse for a movement. Church is about leading people through the systems, relationships and tools that transform them at the deepest levels, and thereby transforming marriages, recovering addictions, healing relationships, empowering vocational aspirations, and breathing life into inspired-dreams; giving us a purpose to live… and die for.
When church attenders UNDERSTAND, INTEGRATE and APPLY THE FUNCTIONS of this movement, it changes their lives, then they too become the embodiment of the movement to outsiders. This is how we arrive at our commission, to go into all the world and preach the gospel.
MATTHEW 16:18-19 NLT (Jesus said) I WILL BUILD MY* CHURCH***…
CHURCH MACRO PURPOSES & SYSTEMS * EVANGELISM * RELATIONSHIPS * SPIRITUAL TRAINING * MINISTRY * WORSHIP
THE GREAT COMMISSION MATTHEW 28:18-20 NKJV And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 "GO therefore and make DISCIPLES of all the nations, BAPTIZING them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 "TEACHING them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
- “Go and make disciples…” - EVANGELISM
- “…baptizing them…” - RELATIONSHIPS
- “…teaching them to obey…” - SPIRITUAL TRAINING
THE GREAT COMMANDMENT MATTHEW 22:37-40 NKJV Jesus said to him, "'You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 "This is the first and great commandment. 39 "And the second is like it: 'You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' 40 "On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."
- “Love the Lord your God…” - WORSHIP
- “Love your neighbor as yourself…” - MINISTRY
5 MACRO PURPOSES OF THE CHURCH GREAT COMMISSION & COMMANDMENT - IN SEQUENCE
- “Go and make disciples…” - EVANGELISM
- “…baptizing them…” - RELATIONSHIPS
- “…teaching them to obey…” - SPIRITUAL TRAINING
- “Love your neighbor as yourself…” – MINISTRY
- “Love the Lord your God…” - WORSHIP
PAUL AND THE 5 MACRO PURPOSES COLOSSIANS 1:28-29 We PROCLAIM Jesus, ADMONISHING and TEACHING everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone PERFECT in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with ALL ENERGY, which so powerfully works in me.
- “We proclaim Jesus…” - EVANGELISM
- “…admonishing…” - RELATIONSHIPS
- “…teaching everyone…”- SPIRITUAL TRAINING
- “…present everyone perfect in Christ…” - MINISTRY
- “…labor…with all energy” - WORSHIP
OUR WORSHIP IS BUILT ON 5 PURPOSES SPIRITUAL PROGRESS BULLSEYE STATEMENTS BUILT ON PURPOSES MISSION:
We empower people to fulfill the GREAT COMMISSION!
VISION:
We introduce people to
the REAL JESUS and the POWER OF REDEMPTION!
LIVE IN HARMONY 1 CORINTHIANS 1:10 NLT (Paul said) I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to LIVE IN HARMONY with each other. Let there be NO DIVISIONS in the CHURCH. Rather, be of ONE MIND, UNITED in THOUGHT and PURPOSE.
HARMONY = WORDS, SAYINGS, TEACHINGS
HOW WILL YOU APPLY THIS MESSAGE TO YOUR LIFE? The greatest gift you can give yourself, your marriage, singleness, parenting, relationships, vocational dreams, spiritual life, and legacy is to engage in a movement of assembled believers, consistently participating in all 5 purposes (systems).
- Do you need to re-commit your fervor for SUNDAYS to invite and reach your friends? If so, who? If who, when?
- Do you need to re-commit to GROUP life, preparing today for the trusted relationships you will need tomorrow? If so, when?
- Do you need to re-commit to spiritual training, learning to think right, believe right and live the overcoming life? Is so, how will you be trained? WORKSHOPS!
- Do you need to re-commit to serving on a TEAM, doing the things that makes a difference in the commission of Christ? If so, what Team? If so, when?
All of these will help your daily devotions. They are the fundamental expressions of heart WORSHIP. They are intended to become your keystone habits!
**MOVING FORWARD THIS WEEK** * WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THIS?
- HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO HELP/SERVE OTHERS?
PREACHING NOTES JAMES 1:2-4 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
EVERY STRUGGLE IS SIGNIFICANT! 1 PETER 1:6-7 At present you maybe temporarily harassed by all kinds of trials. This is no accident. It happens to prove your faith.
JAMES 1:2 Be very happy when you are tested in different ways.
HOW DO YOU GET THROUGH THE TRIAL? LIVE by the PROMISES + FULFILL the COMMANDS. 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20a For no matter how many promises God has made, they are all “Yes” in Christ!
START TO SEE GOD’S DELAYS AS DEVELOPMENT. GALATIANS 6:7 …you are going to harvest what you sow.
COLOSSIANS 1:27 Christ in you the hope of glory…
2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 …anyone in Christ is a new creation, the old life is gone and a new life has begun.
MARK 4:26-27 Jesus said, “The kingdom of God is like someone who plants seed in the ground. Night and day, whether the person is asleep or awake, the seed still grows, but the person does not know how it grows.”
GALATIANS 6:9 Let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we WILL reap a harvest of blessing IF we don’t get discouraged and give up.
LIVING BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE SERIES BIO: The Biblical narrative implies that a normal relationship with God includes miracle interventions. This is promised through Jesus' teachings, creating a vision that "all things are possible" to those who walk with God. If the miraculous, rising above even impossible situations, is the normative for the Christian, then how are we to activate such realities? How are we to encounter God, live in greater freedom and see Bible-level miracles happen for us? This Sunday we begin a several week series of teachings that will inspire, impact and infuse God's great heart of hope.
MATTHEW 17:20 NKJV [Jesus said] …for assuredly, I say to you, if you have FAITH AS A MUSTARD SEED, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.
MARK 9:23 NKJV Jesus said to him, "If you can BELIEVE, ALL THINGS [ARE] POSSIBLE to him who BELIEVES."
TODAY HEBREWS 4:1-3 TPT Now God has offered to us the same promise of entering into his realm of resting in CONFIDENT FAITH. So we must be extremely careful to ensure that we all EMBRACE THE FULLNESS of that PROMISE and NOT FAIL TO EXPERIENCE IT. 2 For we have heard the good news of deliverance just as they did, yet THEY DIDN’T JOIN THEIR FAITH WITH THE WORD. Instead, what they heard didn’t affect them deeply, for they doubted. 3 For those of us who believe, FAITH ACTIVATES THE PROMISE and we EXPERIENCE the realm of confident rest!
NUMBERS 13:17-33 NIV 30 Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and TAKE POSSESSION of the land, for we can certainly do it.” 31 But the men who had gone up with him SAID, “WE CAN'T attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” 32 And they spread among the Israelites a BAD REPORT (KJV – “EVIL REPORT”) about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored DEVOURS those living in it. All the PEOPLE WE SAWthere are of GREAT SIZE.33 … We seemed like GRASSHOPPERS in our own eyes, and WE LOOKED THE SAME TO THEM.”
- VERSE 30 - KJV – “Let us go up at once, and POSSESS IT; for WE ARE WELL ABLE to overcome it.”
NUMBERS 14:1 NIV That night ALL THE PEOPLE of the community raised their VOICES AND WEPT ALOUD. 2 ALL THE ISRAELITES GRUMBLED against Moses and Aaron… 10 But the WHOLE ASSEMBLY TALKED ABOUT STONING THEM. Then the glory of the Lord appeared at the Tent of Meeting to all the Israelites. 11 The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people TREAT ME WITH CONTEMPT? How long will they REFUSE TO BELIEVE IN ME (KJV – “DESPISE ME”)…? …24 But because MY SERVANT CALEB has a DIFFERENT SPIRIT and FOLLOWS ME WHOLEHEARTEDLY, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it…
7 LESSONS LEARNED: 1. The PROMISED LAND is a symbol of God’s greatest blessings. 2. There will be OPPOSITION to receiving God’s promises. 3. Don’t follow POPULAR OPINION when it opposes God’s Word. 4. Cut the “DRAMA” and ask, “What did God say?” 5. A DIFFERENT SPIRIT will create a different outcome. 6. The FAITH PROCESS PROMOTES you to better opportunities. 7. YOU can limit God, or YOU can turn God’s power loose.
Psalm 78:41 KJV Yea, they TURNED BACK and TEMPTED GOD, and LIMITED the Holy One of Israel.
TAKE ACTION / ACTIVATE: STEP 1: What IMPOSSIBLE things
would you like
to EXPERIENCE with God?
STEP 2: How will you ACTIVATE
GOD’S WORD so you can
EXPERIENCE God’s Promise?
LIVING BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE SERIES BIO: The Biblical narrative implies that a normal relationship with God includes miracle interventions. This is promised through Jesus' teachings, creating a vision that "all things are possible" to those who walk with God. If the miraculous, rising above even impossible situations, is the normative for the Christian, then how are we to activate such realities? How are we to encounter God, live in greater freedom and see Bible-level miracles happen for us? This Sunday we begin a several week series of teachings that will inspire, impact and infuse God's great heart of hope.
MATTHEW 17:20 NKJV [Jesus said] …for assuredly, I say to you, if you have FAITH AS A MUSTARD SEED, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.
MARK 9:23 NKJV Jesus said to him, "If you can BELIEVE, ALL THINGS [ARE] POSSIBLE to him who BELIEVES."
TODAY 1 JOHN 5:14-15 NKJV Now this is the CONFIDENCE (FAITH) that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His WILL, He hears us. 15 And if WE KNOWthat He hears us, WHATEVER WE ASK, WE KNOW that WE HAVE the petitions that we have asked of Him.
THE FAITH PROCESS 1. We Know His Will 2. We Know He Hears Us 3. We Know We Have It
BIG IDEA FAITH begins
where the WILL of God
is already KNOWN!
The GREATEST BARRIER
to OUR FAITH is
UNCERTAINTY about GOD’S WILL!
JOHN 1:1-2 NKJV In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and THE WORD WAS GOD**.
Our UNBELIEF about GOD’S PROMISES
is a DIRECT RESULT of
the WORD OF GOD having
LOST ITS AUTHORITATIVE-REALITY to us!
ROMANS 10:17 NKJV So then FAITH [comes] by HEARING, and HEARING by the WORD OF GOD.
ACTION: STEP 1:
What IMPOSSIBLE things
would you like
to EXPERIENCE with God?
STEP 2:
What do you KNOW to be
GOD’S WILL concerning your
AREA OF IMPOSSIBILITY?
- GROUPS – pointe.info/groups
- WORKSHOPS – pointe.info/workshops
MARK AND KIMBERLEY SPELLMAN We are excited to welcome Mark and Kimberley Spellman as our guest speakers next week. They are “revivalist missionaries” with a passion for the nations. The Spellman family is a part of the LifePointe family, having attended LifePointe prior to launching their missionary vision. They are sure to light your fire for France, all of Europe and the world, …and ultimately apply it to your own corner of the world.
THE MISSION OF LOVE Genesis 1:26-28 NKJV Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." 27 So God created man in His [own] image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."
1 Corinthians 15:48-49 NKJV As [was] the [man] of dust, so also [are] those [who are made] of dust; and as [is] the heavenly [Man], so also [are] those [who are] heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the [man] of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly [Man].
John 15:13 NKJV Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.
1 Timothy 1:5 NIV The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
Philemon 6 Laubach I pray that everyone who meets you may catch your faith and learn how wonderful it is to live in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:38-39 NLT And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow--not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below--indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Colossians 1:19-23 NKJV For it pleased [the Father that] in Him all the fullness should dwell, 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled 22 in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight-- 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.
1 Peter 3:15 NKJV But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always [be] ready to [give] a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear...
Today is a celebration of Father’s. It all begins when you arrive. We will have Carmen’s Mexican Food Truck ready to serve you free breakfast burritos. Come early to make sure you get one. Then our friend, and owner of Carmen’s, Luis Araujo, will be our guest interview. His story of coming to faith in Christ, some years in prison and a fascinating story of Redemption will stir your heart. When the service dismisses we will have tacos for the whole family. Dads, if you have ever felt your past decisions put you in an impossible hole, Luis will charge your hopes with fresh vision. You don't want to miss this!
SERMON NOTES: LIVING BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE SERIES BIO: The Biblical narrative implies that a normal relationship with God includes miracle interventions. This is promised through Jesus' teachings, creating a vision that "all things are possible" to those who walk with God. If the miraculous, rising above even impossible situations, is the normative for the Christian, then how are we to activate such realities? How are we to encounter God, live in greater freedom and see Bible-level miracles happen for us? This Sunday we begin a several week series of teachings that will inspire, impact and infuse God's great heart of hope.
SCRIPTURE TEXT: MATTHEW 17:20 NKJV [Jesus said] …for assuredly, I say to you, if you have FAITH AS A MUSTARD SEED, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.
MARK 9:23 NKJV Jesus said to him, "If you can BELIEVE, ALL THINGS [ARE] POSSIBLE to him who BELIEVES."
WHAT IS BIBLE FAITH? (PICK ONE) 1. A coping mechanism (a passive virtue)?
- A catalytic receptor (causal force)?
FAITH IS A RECEPTOR MARK 11:22-24 NKJV So Jesus answered and said to them, "HAVE FAITH IN GOD. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but BELIEVES that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, BELIEVE that you RECEIVE[them], and you will have [them].
JAMES 1:5-8 NKJV If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ASK IN FAITH, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will RECEIVE anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
LIVING BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE SERIES BIO: The Biblical narrative implies that a normal relationship with God includes miracle interventions. This is promised through Jesus' teachings, creating a vision that "all things are possible" to those who walk with God. If the miraculous, rising above even impossible situations, is the normative for the Christian, then how are we to activate such realities? How are we to encounter God, live in greater freedom and see Bible-level miracles happen for us? This Sunday we begin a several week series of teachings that will inspire, impact and infuse God's great heart of hope.
MATTHEW 17:20 NKJV [Jesus said] …for assuredly, I say to you, if you have FAITH AS A MUSTARD SEED, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.
MARK 9:23 NKJV Jesus said to him, "If you can BELIEVE, ALL THINGS [ARE] POSSIBLE to him who BELIEVES."
QUESTION: Do you have
any IMPOSSIBILITIES in your life,
that if became POSSIBLE,
would ALLEVIATE SUFFERING?
IMPOSSIBILITIES: * Absolute statistical truth * Confirmed as incapable of occurring * Mathematically beyond improbability * Transcends laws of physics * Without physical explanation * Requires divine intervention
HOW MIRACLES HAPPEN: * I don’t believe that miracles are LIMITED to RANDOM ACTS of GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY. * I believe miracles are PRE-EXISTING POTENTIALS, accomplished in CHRIST’S REDEMPTION, ACTIVATED by our engagement of SPIRITUAL LAW. * When miracles DON’T HAPPEN, it ISN’T because of LIMITATIONS in GOD’S SOVEREIGN-DESIRE, NOR our lack of SPIRITUAL BRAWN; BUT a lack of understanding of EXISTING SPIRITUAL LAW.
THE LAW OF FAITH GALATIANS 3:5 NKJV Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works MIRACLES among you, [does He do it] by the WORKS OF THE LAW, or by the HEARING OF FAITH?
ROMANS 3:27 NKJV Where [is] boasting then? It is excluded. BY WHAT LAW? Of WORKS? No, but by the LAW OF FAITH.
SHAMING STATEMENTS: * “If your faith was real you would not be experiencing challenges!” * “You must have sin in your life!” * “You didn’t pray hard enough!” * “You had doubt in your mind!” * “God is judging you!”
WHAT IS BIBLE FAITH? 1. A coping mechanism (a passive virtue)? 2. A catalytic receptor (causal force)?
WHAT IS BIBLE FAITH? (PASSIVE OR CAUSAL?) WOMAN WITH THE ISSUE OF BLOOD - MARK 5:25-34 NKJV And Jesus said to her, "Daughter, YOUR FAITH HAS MADE YOU WELL. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction."
ONE OF THE TEN LEPERS - LUKE 17:19 NKJV And Jesus said to him, "Arise, go your way. YOUR FAITH HAS MADE YOU WELL.”
BLIND BARTEMEAUS – MARK 10:52 NKJV Then Jesus said to him, "Go your way; YOUR FAITH HAS MADE YOU WELL." And immediately he received his sight…
JAMES 5:14-15 NKJV Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And THE PRAYER OF FAITH WILL SAVE THE SICK, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
FAITH IS A CATALYST RECEPTOR MARK 11:22-24 NKJV So Jesus answered and said to them, "HAVE FAITH IN GOD. 23 "For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but BELIEVES that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, BELIEVE that you RECEIVE[them], and you will have [them].
JAMES 1:5-8 NKJV If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ASK IN FAITH, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will RECEIVE anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
QUESTION: What IMPOSSIBLE things
would you like
to EXPERIENCE with God?
QUESTION: What if over the next several weeks
we could look at the principles that govern
MIRACLE-FAITH as CATALYTIC RECEPTOR?
LIVING BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE SERIES BIO: The Biblical narrative implies that a normal relationship with God includes miracle interventions. This is promised through Jesus' teachings, creating a vision that "all things are possible" to those who walk with God. If the miraculous, rising above even impossible situations, is the normative for the Christian, then how are we to activate such realities? How are we to encounter God, live in greater freedom and see Bible-level miracles happen for us? This Sunday we begin a several week series of teachings that will inspire, impact and infuse God's great heart of hope.
MATTHEW 17:20 NKJV [Jesus said] …for assuredly, I say to you, if you have FAITH AS A MUSTARD SEED, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.
MARK 9:23 NKJV Jesus said to him, "If you can BELIEVE, ALL THINGS [ARE] POSSIBLE to him who BELIEVES."
QUESTION: Do you have
any IMPOSSIBILITIES in your life,
that if became POSSIBLE,
would ALLEVIATE SUFFERING?
IMPOSSIBILITIES: * Absolute statistical truth * Confirmed as incapable of occurring * Mathematically beyond improbability * Transcends laws of physics * Without physical explanation * Requires divine intervention
HOW MIRACLES HAPPEN: * I don’t believe that miracles are LIMITED to RANDOM ACTS of GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY. * I believe miracles are PRE-EXISTING POTENTIALS, accomplished in CHRIST’S REDEMPTION, ACTIVATED by our engagement of SPIRITUAL LAW. * When miracles DON’T HAPPEN, it ISN’T because of LIMITATIONS in GOD’S SOVEREIGN-DESIRE, NOR our lack of SPIRITUAL BRAWN; BUT a lack of understanding of EXISTING SPIRITUAL LAW.
SHAMING STATEMENTS: * “If your faith was real you would not be experiencing challenges!” * “You must have sin in your life!” * “You didn’t pray hard enough!” * “You had doubt in your mind!” * “God is judging you!”
WHAT IS BIBLE FAITH? 1. A coping mechanism (a passive virtue)? 2. A catalytic receptor (causal force)?
QUESTION: What IMPOSSIBLE things
would you like
to EXPERIENCE with God?
QUESTION: What if over the next several weeks
we could look at the principles that govern
MIRACLE-FAITH as CATALYTIC RECEPTOR?
MOVING FORWARD THIS WEEK * WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THIS? * HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO HELP/SERVE OTHERS?
LIVING BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE SERIES BIO: The Biblical narrative implies that a normal relationship with God includes miracle interventions. This is promised through Jesus' teachings, creating a vision that "all things are possible" to those who walk with God. If the miraculous, rising above even impossible situations, is the normative for the Christian, then how are we to activate such realities? How are we to encounter God, live in greater freedom and see Bible-level miracles happen for us? This Sunday we begin a several week series of teachings that will inspire, impact and infuse God's great heart of hope.
QUESTION: Do you have
any IMPOSSIBILITIES in your life,
that if became POSSIBLE,
would ALLEVIATE SUFFERING?
MATTHEW 17:20 NKJV [Jesus said] …for assuredly, I say to you, if you have FAITH AS A MUSTARD SEED, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.
MARK 9:23 NKJV Jesus said to him, "If you can BELIEVE, ALL THINGS [ARE] POSSIBLE to him who BELIEVES."
HOW DO MIRACLES HAPPEN? * I don’t believe that miracles are LIMITED to RANDOM ACTS of GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY. * I believe miracles are PRE-EXISTING POTENTIALS, accomplished in CHRIST’S REDEMPTION, ACTIVATED by our engagement of SPIRITUAL LAW. * When miracles DON’T HAPPEN, it ISN’T because of LIMITATIONS in GOD’S SOVEREIGN-DESIRE, NOR our lack of SPIRITUAL BRAWN; BUT a lack of understanding of EXISTING SPIRITUAL LAW.
“A miracle is an event brought about by the power of God that is a temporary exception to the ordinary course of nature for the purpose of showing that God has acted in history.”
– Dr. Richard L. Purtill, professor of philosophy, Western Washington University
TRUST FALL Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
God in this verse calls us to do something none of us have been trained to do - to LEAN NOT...But to LEAN ON Him.
But how do we actually do this? Let’s take a look at a guy named Abraham.
Abraham Life Background
- Gen 12...LEAVE LAND - God appears to Abram while he is living in Haran with his family. God speaks life over Abram and gives him a purpose and call. He tells him to leave his native country to a “land that I will show you.”
- Gen 15...COVENANT - God promises to make Abraham the “Father of many nations.” He declares that through Abraham's seed a nation would come. Cue: Father Abraham.
- Gen 21...ISAAC’S BIRTH - Years later (while Abraham was 100 years old) God fulfills his promise and gives him a son named Isaac. God says this is THE SEED that the nation would come.
3 Decisions Of Trust…
1 - Set Out
Genesis 22:3 (NLT)
3 The next morning Abraham got up early. He saddled his donkey and took two of his servants with him, along with his son, Isaac. Then he chopped wood for a fire for a burnt offering and set out for the place God had told him about.
This is the first decision Abraham had to make. He had heard God’s voice. He knew what God wanted him to do. Now, he had a decision to make.
Abraham had to decide if he was going to obey or not.
James 2:21-22 (NLT)
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete
Trusting is NOT sitting on the couch waiting for something to happen! Trusting is a step of action!
James 2:26 (NKJV)
“...faith without works is dead...”
What is something in your life that God has asked you to trust him with that today you need to choose to “SET OUT” and actually do?...
2 - Walk On
Genesis 22:8 (NLT)
7 Isaac turned to Abraham and said, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “We have the fire and the wood,” the boy said, “but where is the sheep for the burnt offering?” 8 “God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son,” Abraham answered. And they both walked on together.
It is one thing for Abraham to “set out”...but it is an entirely different thing for him to stick with it for the long haul and finish.
This walking on is what I call the “In Between”
It’s in the inbetween that we are most tempted to quit, let our dreams die, second-guess our decisions, get distracted, get bitter, get offended - let worry sink in.
Psalm 37:3-5 (NLT)
3 Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. 5 Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.
We get to decide - will worry distract us or will we walk on in trust?
Genesis 22:5 (NLT)
5 “Stay here with the donkey,” Abraham told the servants. “The boy and I will travel a little farther. We will worship there, and then we will come right back.”
Genesis 22:8 (NLT)
8 “God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son...
While Abraham “walked on” he knew WHAT he was “WALKING ON.”
Abraham was not just blindly walking in trust but he was consciously walking on God’s covenant to Him and to Isaac. He was reminding Himself of God’s promise.
We can do the same! We have the strength to walk on through any circumstance because we can WALK ON GOD’S PROMISES (HIS WORD)!
You will have the grace to walk on when you WALK ON GOD’S WORD!
1 John 4:16 (NLT)
16 We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.
3 - Look Up
Genesis 22:13 (NLT)
13 Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket. So he took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering in place of his son. 14 Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means “the Lord will provide”). To this day, people still use that name as a proverb: “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.”
While Abraham was walking, God was working!
Unlike Abraham we do KNOW about the RAM!
Philippians 4:19 (NLT)
19 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
While you set out and walk on be prepared to look up because God is on the move working in your favor more than you even see.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG)
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!
Final Challenge - Locate one are in your life that God is asking for you to trust him...where are you at in trusting God with that? Do you need to set out, walk on or look up? Whatever it is can I encourage you today that life is best lived when we are trusting in Jesus!!
HOW WE WILL TOUCH A GENERATION: FROM PREPARATION TO PLATFORM On May 1, 2015 we launched the Generations Capital Stewardship Campaign. Our LifePointe members were inspired for a 3-year vision to prepare for the building of a powerful platform that would touch a generation. We have been faithful to take what was in our hand and surrender it to God. Today, 3 years later, we are standing at our next step. This Sunday we will celebrate all that God has done and look into our future.
https://app.box.com/s/rdr3ah2pfpvl7d4mhwm902z122kimvxs
ENCOUNTERS: HOW TO KNOW WHAT GOD IS LIKE Have you ever wondered what God is like? Maybe you desired a real encounter with God, but didn’t know what to expect, or how to activate such an experience. This series is for you. How do you move through the mystery to the subjective and finally to the objective? God wants you to encounter Him more than you want too. Jesus came to give us experiences with Him. You will not only love the teachings, but we desire you to have new encounters that will capture your heart!
2 CORINTHIANS 12:1-2, 4, 7 NKJV [Paul said] … I will come to VISIONS and REVELATIONS of the Lord: 2 I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago--whether IN THE BODY I do not know, or whether OUT OF THE BODY I do not know, God knows--such a one was caught up TO THE THIRD HEAVEN. ... 4 how he was caught up into Paradise and heard INEXPRESSIBLE WORDS, which it is NOT LAWFUL FOR A MAN TO UTTER. ... 7 And lest I should be EXALTED ABOVE MEASURE by the ABUNDANCE OF THE REVELATIONS, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be EXALTED ABOVE MEASURE.
EXPERIENCE IS * EXPERIENCE is the INVOLVEMENT IN what is happening rather than abstract reflection on an event. * EXPERIENCE is the CONSCIOUS AWARENESS of time, space, thought, imagination, emotion, sensation, environment, relationships, memories and purpose.
STAGES TO AN ENCOUNTER Unaware > Aware > Learning > Enlightenment > Encounter
EPHESIANS 3:17-19 AMP …19 and [that you may come] to know [practically, through personal EXPERIENCE] the LOVE OF CHRIST which far surpasses [mere] knowledge [without EXPERIENCE]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the FULLNESS OF GOD [may have the RICHEST MEASURE of the DIVINE PRESENCE, and become A BODY WHOLLY filled and flooded with GOD HIMSELF]!
CALL TO ACTION: 1. Genuinely desire encounters 2. Let God’s Word inspire your vision 3. Engage intense rituals 4. Completely immerse and surrender
ENCOUNTERS: HOW TO KNOW WHAT GOD IS LIKE Have you ever wondered what God is like? Maybe you desired a real encounter with God, but didn’t know what to expect, or how to activate such an experience. This series is for you. How do you move through the mystery to the subjective and finally to the objective? God wants you to encounter Him more than you want too. Jesus came to give us experiences with Him. You will not only love the teachings, but we desire you to have new encounters that will capture your heart!
EPHESIANS 3:17-19 AMP [Paul prayed] … that Christ may dwell in your hearts THROUGH your FAITH. And may you, having been [deeply] rooted and [securely] grounded in love, 18 be fully capable of comprehending with all the saints (God’s people) the width and length and height and depth of His love [fully EXPERIENCING that amazing, endless love]; 19 and [that you may come] to know [practically, through personal EXPERIENCE] the LOVE OF CHRIST which far surpasses [mere] knowledge [without EXPERIENCE]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the FULLNESS OF GOD [may have the RICHEST MEASURE of the DIVINE PRESENCE, and become A BODY WHOLLY filled and flooded with GOD HIMSELF]!
EXPERIENCE IS * EXPERIENCE is the INVOLVEMENT IN what is happening rather than abstract reflection on an event. * EXPERIENCE is the CONSCIOUS AWARENESS of time, space, thought, imagination, emotion, sensation, environment, relationships, memories and purpose.
STAGES TO AN ENCOUNTER Unaware – Aware – Learning – Enlightenment – Encounter
JOHN 1:1 NKJV In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD.
ISAIAH 55:8-9, 11 NKJV “For MY THOUGHTS [are] not your thoughts, Nor [are] your ways MY WAYS," says the LORD. 9 "For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, So are MY WAYS higher than your ways, And MY THOUGHTS than your thoughts. ... 11 SO SHALL MY WORD BE that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper [in the thing] for which I sent it.
ZEPHANIAH 3:17 NIV The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take GREAT DELIGHT IN YOU; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will REJOICE OVER YOU with SINGING."
CALL TO ACTION: 1. Genuinely desire encounters 2. Let God’s Word inspire your vision 3. Engage intense rituals 4. Completely immerse and surrender
THE POWER OF REDEMPTION * FREEDOM: Brokenness is no longer the author of my story. * HOPE: The past is not dictating my future. * TRUTH: It was finished on the cross. * RESTORATION: My heart can be restored from the depths of my pain.
THIS IS RESURRECTION
1 - TWO GUYS ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS LUKE 24:13-35 NIV Now that same day TWO OF THEM were going to a village called Emmaus, about SEVEN MILES from Jerusalem. 14 They were TALKING WITH EACH OTHER ABOUT EVERYTHING that had happened (the crucifixion). 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, JESUS HIMSELF (after He was resurrected) came up and WALKED ALONG WITH THEM; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him.
LUKE 24:13-35 NIV 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, "Were not OUR HEARTS BURNING WITHIN US while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?" 33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together.
2 - DUSTIN KUECHLER – STORY 3 - PETER 1 Peter 1:3 NIV Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his GREAT MERCY he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead…
JOHN 21:14-17 NIV This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead. 15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, DO YOU LOVE ME more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "FEED MY LAMBS." 16 Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, DO YOU LOVE ME?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "TAKE CARE OF MY SHEEP." 17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, DO YOU LOVE ME?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "FEED MY SHEEP”.**
LUKE 24:33-34, 36, 45-47 NIV 33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, "It is true! The LORD HAS RISEN and has APPEARED TO SIMON." ... 36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." ...
4 – BRUCE CUMMINS - STORY 5 - ??? Romans 10:9-11, 13 NKJV … that if you CONFESS WITH YOUR MOUTH THE LORD JESUS and BELIEVE IN YOUR HEART that God has RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, you will be SAVED.
Money is not just about the money …but the emotions and beliefs tied to our money. 1 TIMOTHY 6:6-10 NKJV - 6 Now godliness with CONTENTMENT is great gain. … 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the LOVE OF MONEY [philargiyria] is a root of all kinds of EVIL, for which some have STRAYED from the FAITH in their GREEDINESS, and PIERCED themselves through with MANY SORROWS.
1 JOHN 4:17-18, 20 NKJV LOVE* has been PERFECTED among us in this: that we may have BOLDNESS in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. 18 There is NO FEAR in LOVE; but PERFECT LOVE casts out FEAR, because FEAR INVOLVES TORMENT. But HE WHO FEARS has NOT BEEN MADE PERFECT IN LOVE. ... 20 If SOMEONE SAYS, "I love God," and hates his brother, HE IS A LIAR; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, HOW CAN HE LOVE GOD* whom he has not seen?
JAMES 2:18 NKJV But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your FAITH WITHOUT your works, and I will show you MY FAITH BY MY WORKS.
JAMES 1:17 NIV EVERY GOOD AND PERFECT GIFT is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
LUKE 9:12-17 NIV Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.” 13 He replied, “You give them something to eat.” They answered, “We have only five loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.” 14 (About five thousand men were there.) But he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.”15 The disciples did so, and everyone sat down. 16 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, HE GAVE THANKS AND BROKE THEM. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people. 17 They ALL ATE AND WERE SATISFIED, and the disciples picked up TWELVE BASKETFULS of broken pieces that were left over.
MALACHI 3:10 Bring all the TITHES into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the WINDOWS OF HEAVEN for you. I will POUR OUT A BLESSING so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! PUT ME TO THE TEST!
2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-11 TPT Here’s my point. A stingy sower will reap a meager harvest, but the one who sows from a generous spirit will reap an abundant harvest. 7 Let giving flow from your heart, not from a sense of religious duty. Let it spring up freely from the joy of giving—ALL BECAUSE GOD LOVES HILARIOUS GENEROSITY!* 8 Yes, God is more than ready to overwhelm you with every form of grace, so that you will have more than enough of everything —every moment and in every way. He will make you overflow with abundance in every good thing you do. 9 Just as the Scriptures say about the one who trusts in him: Because he has sown extravagantly and given to the poor, his kindness and generous deeds will never be forgotten. 10 This generous God who supplies abundant seed for the farmer, which becomes bread for our meals, is even MORE EXTRAVAGANT TOWARD YOU. First he supplies every need, PLUS MORE. Then he MULTIPLIESthe SEED AS YOU SOW IT, so that THE HARVEST of your generosity WILL*GROW. 11 You will be abundantly enriched in every way as you give generously on every occasion, for when we take your gifts to those in need, it causes many to give thanks to God.
TWO EMOTIONAL FEARS * Will there be enough? * What will people think?
PROVERBS 29:25 MSG The fear of human opinion disables; trusting in God protects you from that.
PHILIPPIANS 4:19 NKJV And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
TRUTH: “The Kingdom of God is more than enough. It is an act of faith to live with the narrative of abundance instead of the fear of scarcity” -Sarah Bessey
PHILIPPIANS 4:20 TPT And God our Father will receive all the glory and the honor throughout the eternity of eternities! Amen!
CHALLENGE: Become a hilarious giver!
2 CORINTHIANS 9: 6-9 TPT Here’s my point. A stingy sower will reap a meager harvest, but the one who sows from a generous spirit will reap an abundant harvest. 7 Let giving flow from your heart, not from a sense of religious duty. Let it spring up freely from the joy of giving—all because God loves hilarious (cheerful, joyous, prompt to do anything) generosity! 8 Yes, God is more than ready to overwhelm you with every form of grace, so that you will have more than enough of everything—every moment and in every way. He will make you overflow with abundance in every good thing you do. 9 Just as the Scriptures say about the one who trusts in him:
JESUS TELLS THE STORY OF THE WAYWARD SON LUKE 15:11-32 NKJV Then He said: "A certain man had two sons. 12 "And the younger of them said to [his] father, 'Father, give me the portion of goods that falls [to me].' So he divided to them [his] livelihood.
SON SQUANDERS INHERITANCE
13 "And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. 14 "But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. 15 "Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 "And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him [anything].
SON COMES TO HIMSELF
17 "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 'I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, 19 "and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants."
FATHER ANTICIPATES AND PREPARES FOR RETURN - HE RUNS
20 "And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, HIS FATHER SAW HIM and HAD COMPASSION, and RAN and FELL ON HIS NECK and KISSED HIM. 21 "And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.'
FATHER THROWS A MEMORABLE PARTY
22 "BUT the father said to his servants, 'Bring out the BEST ROBE and put [it] on him, and put a RING on his hand and SANDALS on [his] feet. 23 'And bring the FATTED CALF here and kill [it], and let us EAT AND BE MERRY; 24 'for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' And they began to be merry.
OLDER SON FEELS NEGLECTED
25 "Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard MUSIC AND DANCING. 26 "So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 "And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.'
OLDER SON REFUSES TO PARTICIPATE – FATHER REQUESTS
28 "But HE WAS ANGRY and WOULD NOT GO IN. Therefore his father came out and PLEADED with him. 29 "So he answered and said to [his] father, 'Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave ME a young goat, that I might make merry with MY friends.
30 'But as soon as this SON OF YOURS came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.' 31 "And he said to him, 'Son, YOU ARE ALWAYS WITH ME, and ALL THAT I HAVE IS YOURS. 32 'It was right that WE SHOULD MAKE MERRY and BE GLAD, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.' "
HOLY SERVICE to the Lord is about Gods EXTRAVAGANT OBSESSION for people! We show our GUESTS that God is FOR THEM by how well we SERVE THEM! QUESTIONS: 1. What do we want GUESTS to EXPERIENCE?
2. What EMOTION do we want them to FEEL?
4 THINGS: * PREPARATION + EMOTION: Obsessively Anticipated * WOW + EMOTION: Surprisingly Personal * FUN + EMOTION: Unexpectedly Exciting * LASTING + EMOTION: Adhesively Empowered
CALL TO ACTION 1. Grab INVITE CARDS on the way out. 2. TREASURE ONE PERSON this week with an INVITE. 3. CELEBRATE with your GROUP the experience.
LUKE 15:1-10 NKJV Then all the TAX COLLECTORS and the (notorious and wicked) SINNERS drew near to Him to hear Jesus. 2 And the (religious leaders) Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, "This Man receives SINNERS and eats with them." 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 "What man of you, having a HUNDRED SHEEP, if HE LOSES ONE of them, does not LEAVE THE NINETY-NINE in the wilderness, and GO AFTER THE ONE which is lost UNTIL HE FINDS IT?
5 "And when he has found [it], he lays [it] on his shoulders, REJOICING. 6 "And when he comes home, he calls together [his] friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'REJOICE with me, for I HAVE FOUND MY SHEEP WHICH WAS LOST!' 7 "I say to you that likewise there will be MORE JOY IN HEAVEN over one (notorious and wicked) SINNER WHO REPENTS than OVER NINETY-NINE JUST PERSONSwho need no repentance.
8 "Or what woman, having TEN SILVER COINS, if SHE LOSES ONE COIN, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully UNTIL SHE FINDS [IT]? 9 "And when she has found [it], she calls [her] friends and neighbors together, saying, 'REJOICE with me, for I HAVE FOUND THE PIECE WHICH I LOST!' 10 "Likewise, I say to you, there is JOY in the presence of the ANGELS OF GOD over ONE (notorious and wicked) SINNER who REPENTS."
RECKLESS LOVE LYRICS Before I spoke a word, You were singing over me
You have been so, so good to me
Before I took a breath, You breathed Your life in me
You have been so, so kind to me
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the ninety-nine
I couldn't earn it, and I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God, yeah
When I was Your foe, still Your love fought for me
You have been so, so good to me
When I felt no worth, You paid it all for me
You have been so, so kind to me
There's no shadow You won't light up
Mountain You won't climb up
Coming after me
There's no wall You won't kick down
Lie You won't tear down
Coming after me
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the ninety-nine
And I couldn't earn it, I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God, yeah
HEBREWS 12:2 NKJV …looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of [our] faith, who FOR THE JOY THAT WAS SET BEFORE HIM endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
WHEN YOU FEEL GOD’S TREASURE OF OTHERS, IT MAKES YOU FEEL HIS TREASURE OF YOU! MARK 16:15-17, 20 NKJV And Jesus said to them, "GO into all the world and preach the gospel (good news) to every creature. 16 "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; … 17 "And these SIGNS WILL FOLLOW those who believe: ... 20 And the disciples went out and preached everywhere, THE LORD WORKING WITH [THEM] and confirming the word through the ACCOMPANYING SIGNS. Amen.
COLOSSIANS 4:5 NKJV Walk in WISDOM (supreme intelligence) toward those [who are] OUTSIDE, redeeming the time.
QUESTIONS: 1. What are the BENEFITS of God’s EXTRAVAGANT OBSESSION? (2-3 Areas) 2. Do you PARTICIPATE with the “MIND OF CHRIST” in your day to day life?
CALL TO ACTION: THIS EASTER 1. Grab INVITE CARDS on the way out. 2. TREASURE ONE PERSON this week with an INVITE. 3. CELEBRATE with your GROUP the experience.
WHAT IF WE … 200 – Adults/Teens 5 – Invitations Each 1000 INVITATIONS 10% Come = 100 10% Respond to Christ = 10 PEOPLE COME TO CHRIST
HOW TO DEAL WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE – SERIES BIO Have you ever had someone in your life that seemed to diminish you, or that caused you to operate as half of yourself, or that squashed a piece of your heart and soul, or who made you unsettled just by the way they projected themselves?
Maybe it is an over-the-top narcissistic, or the distrusting feelings while being with a gossiper, or the anxious feelings of being a future topic of your critical “friend,” or the subservient feelings while standing down to a bully, or the insecure feelings as you hope things are still good with a passive-aggressive, or maybe the emotional drain of an ever-complaining negative person.
How do you deal with such people? How do you stay healthy and retain energy for life? How do you regulate and live as your whole Self, rather than a diminished version of you?
We are excited to learn the systems and tools for our own growth. This new series probably has YOUR name on it too.
REVIEW WEEK ONE “It’s not about the DIFFICULT PEOPLE; It’s about nurturing a HEALTHY ME-OPLE!” WEEK TWO “Emotional health requires I put a COMMA in the DRAMA!” TODAY The greatest gift God has given each of us is the power of choice. We always have a choice. This ability to choose, even in the most difficult of situations, empowers us to set perimeters for ourselves and others, for what we want and don’t want. From verbal perimeters, to psychological and emotional markers, to physical bounds, we have a choice to allow or disallow others in.
- What is a boundary?
- How do our boundaries galvanize our sense of identity?
- How do we know if someone crossed a boundary?
- How do we set boundaries without controlling people?
- How do boundaries make me more generous, rather than selfish?
PHYSICAL VIOLATIONS * Moving into your personal space * Touching you without permission * Being inappropriate or too familiar * Touching or handling things that belong to you * Violating privacy (cell phones, computers, social media contacts, personal records) * Damaging or destroying personal property * Threatening you with personal harm
VERBAL VIOLATIONS * Not allowing you to speak or be heard * Raising their voice / Screaming at you * Saying derogatory or inflammatory things about your integrity * Gossiping about you
PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL VIOLATIONS * Preying on your sense of Self and Self-esteem * Using what you told in confidence as a weapon against you * Lying to you * Criticizing, demeaning, judging and manipulating you * Making fun of you, your thoughts, feelings and beliefs * Trying to make you feel guilty or responsible for a situation * Making demands of your time and energy * Shaming or embarrassing you * Bullying you * Assuring you their thoughts are superior to yours
JAMES 5:12 NKJV But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your "YES" BE "YES," and [your] "NO," "NO," lest you fall into JUDGMENT (hypókrisis – hypocrisy – the acting of a stage player).**
- God is the Author of boundaries
- Jesus preached and modeled boundaries
WHY BOUNDARIES? * To guard the image of God in you * To guard the health of your heart * To be more generous
HOW TO SET BOUNDARIES 1. How am I DOING? 2. Why am I UNCOMFORTABLE? 3. What do I WANT? 4. How will I COMMUNICATE what I want? 5. How will I ENFORCE consequences to the relationship?
CALL TO ACTION 1. What is ONE RELATIONSHIP or SCENARIO for which you will immediately work through these FIVE BOUNDARY STEPS? 2. What HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS will you have for SUPPORT on your BOUNDARY TEAM?
QUESTIONS? * Have you ever had someone in your life that… * That seemed to DIMINISH YOU * That caused you to OPERATE AS HALF OF YOURSELF * That squashed a PIECE OF YOUR HEART AND SOUL * MADE YOU UNSETTLED just by the way they projected themselves?
- Maybe it is someone who is an over-the-top NARCISSISTIC
- Or the distrust feelings while being with a GOSSIPER
- Or the anxious feelings of being a future the topic of your CRITICAL “friend”
- Or the subservience feelings while standing down to a BULLY
- Or the insecure feelings as you hope things are still good with a PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE
-
Or maybe even the emotional drain of an ever-complaining NEGATIVE person.
-
How do you DEAL WITH such people?
- How do you STAY HEALTHY and RETAIN ENERGY for life?
- How do you REGULATE and live as your WHOLE SELF, rather than a DIMINISHED VERSION of you?
LAST WEEK: It’s NOT about dealing with DIFFICULT PEOPLE; it’s about dealing with DIFFICULT ME-OPLE. EMOTIONAL HEALTH: Do You Find Yourself Trending Towards…
- Seriousness
- Irritability
- Impatience
- “Not caring”
- Being stuck
- Absence of hopeful Imaginations
- Unfeeling
TODAY: Emotional health requires I put a COMMA in the DRAMA! WHY WE ALLOW DRAMA: * We are unaware of drama’s impact on our brain * We are fatigued emotionally * We think drama increases our connection with others
HOW DO WE STOP THE DRAMA? * Remember, I’m NOT a DRAMA STORY * Refuse the DELUSION of perfection * Remember, I can’t CONTROL people or things * Ask, “WHAT CHOICES do I have?”
DRAINS * News/Media * Social Media Posts * Reading Product Reviews * Critical Reviews * Sports Losses * Authority Relationships * Subordinate Relationships * Peer Relationships * Stresses (Economic, Health) * Grievous Memories
CHARGES (SATURATION) * Worship * Thankfulness * The Word * Prayer * Declarations * Church “Experience” Environments * Healthy Relationships * Rest * Unhurried Life-Focus * Hopeful Imaginations
EPHESIANS 4:17, 19, 23, 27, 29, 31-32 NKJV [Paul said] This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer WALK as the rest of the Gentiles [outsiders] walk, in the FUTILITY (frailty) OF THEIR MIND, ... 19 who, being PAST FEELING (cease to feel pain or grief – callous and apathetic), have given themselves over to LEWDNESS (lack of restraint), to work all uncleanness with greediness. ... 23 and be RENEWED in the SPIRIT OF YOUR MIND… 27 nor give PLACE to the DEVIL. ... 29 Let NO CORRUPT WORD (putrefied, poor or unfit, worthless) proceed out of your mouth, but what is GOOD (joyful, excellent, honorable) for necessary EDIFICATION (builds up, stirs heart in holiness), that it may IMPART GRACE to the hearers. ... 31 Let all BITTERNESS, WRATH, ANGER, CLAMOR (outcry, grievous sharing), and EVIL SPEAKING be put away from you, with all MALICE (desire to injure or cause trouble). 32 And be KIND to one another, TENDERHEARTED, FORGIVING one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
ACTION STEPS 1. How will you overhaul at least ONE SYSTEM to STOP the DRAINS?
2. How will you overhaul at least ONE SYSTEM to BOOST your CHARGE?
Write it down now. Tell somebody you trust. Come to the rest of the series!
QUESTIONS? * Have you ever had someone in your life that… * That seemed to DIMINISH YOU * That caused you to OPERATE AS HALF OF YOURSELF * That squashed a PIECE OF YOUR HEART AND SOUL * MADE YOU UNSETTLED just by the way they projected themselves?
- Maybe it is someone who is an over-the-top NARCISSISTIC
- Or the distrust feelings while being with a GOSSIPER
- Or the anxious feelings of being a future the topic of your CRITICAL “friend”
- Or the subservience feelings while standing down to a BULLY
- Or the insecure feelings as you hope things are still good with a PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE
-
Or maybe even the emotional drain of an ever-complaining NEGATIVE person.
-
How do you DEAL WITH such people?
- How do you STAY HEALTHY and RETAIN ENERGY for life?
- How do you REGULATE and live as your WHOLE SELF, rather than a DIMINISHED VERSION of you?
PSALM 23:1-6 NKJV [David said] The LORD [is] my shepherd; I SHALL NOT WANT. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 HE RESTORES MY SOUL; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. SLIDE 05 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I WILL FEAR NO EVIL; For YOU [ARE] WITH ME; Your rod and Your staff, they COMFORT ME. 5 You prepare a table before me in the PRESENCE OF MY ENEMIES; You ANOINT MY HEAD with oil; MY CUP RUNS OVER. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I WILL DWELL IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD FOREVER.
TRUTH: It’s NOT about dealing with DIFFICULT PEOPLE;
it’s about dealing with DIFFICULT ME-OPLE.
TRUTH: We must FIRST shift our focus from DIFFICULT PEOPLE;
to nurturing a HEALTHY ME-OPLE.
1 SAMUEL 16:11 NIV So he asked Jesse, "Are these all the sons you have?" "There is still the YOUNGEST," Jesse answered. "He is tending the sheep." Samuel said, "Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives."
1 SAMUEL 17:28 NLT But when David's oldest brother, Eliab, heard David talking to the men, he was angry. "What are you doing around here anyway?" he demanded. "What about those few sheep you're supposed to be taking care of? I know about your pride and deceit. You just want to see the battle!"
PSALM 69:4 NLT[David said] Those who HATE ME without cause OUTNUMBER THE HAIRS on my head. Many ENEMIES TRY TO DESTROY ME with lies…
PSALM 143:1, 3-11 NKJV[David said] Hear my prayer, O LORD, Give ear to my supplications! In Your faithfulness answer me, [And] in Your righteousness. ... 3 For THE ENEMY has PERSECUTED (HARASS) MY SOUL; He has CRUSHED MY LIFE to the ground; He has made me DWELL IN DARKNESS, like those who have long been dead. 4 Therefore MY SPIRIT IS OVERWHELMED within me; MY HEART within me is DISTRESSED. 5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands. 6 I spread out my hands to You; My soul [longs] for You like a thirsty land. Selah 7 Answer me speedily, O LORD; MY SPIRIT FAILS! Do not hide Your face from me, lest I be like those who GO DOWN INTO THE PIT. 8 Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I LIFT UP MY SOUL TO YOU. 9 Deliver me, O LORD, from my enemies; In You I take shelter. 10 Teach me to do Your will, For You [are] my God; Your Spirit [is] good. Lead me in the land of uprightness. 11 REVIVE ME, O LORD, for Your name's sake! For Your righteousness' sake BRING MY SOUL OUT OF TROUBLE.
SELF INTERVIEW QUESTIONS * SELF-QUESTION #1 – “When I’m alone – and the recording loops are playing in my head – am I grieved, anxious or depressed?” * SELF-QUESTION #2 – “Am I easily triggered, even when I least expect it?” * SELF-QUESTION #3 – “Do I have energy to care, activate and execute on the things I theoretically know I should?” * SELF-QUESTION #4 – “Do I ‘hate’ a lot of things – life events, people, my job, my marriage, my life, or myself?” * SELF-QUESTION #5 – “When I’m with people - both those whom I am closest to and those that I simply encounter – do I FEEL affection, joy, and wonder towards them?” * SELF-QUESTION #6 – “Do I FEEL affection, joy, and wonder towards God, His promises and hopes for my future?”
DRAINS * News/Media * Social Media Posts * Reading Product Reviews * Critical Reviews * Sports Losses * Authority Relationships * Subordinate Relationships * Peer Relationships * Stresses (Economic, Health) * Grievous Memories
MATTHEW 11:29 NKJV [Jesus said] Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find REST for your SOULS.
PSALM 119:28 NKJV [David said] My SOUL melts from heaviness; STRENGTHEN me according to Your word.
PSALM 25:13, 17, 20 KJV [David said] (My) SOUL shall dwell at EASE; ... 17 The TROUBLES of my HEART are ENLARGED: [O] bring thou me out of my DISTRESSES. ... 20 O KEEP my SOUL, and deliver me: let me NOT BE ASHAMED; for I put MY TRUST IN THEE.
CHARGES (SATURATION) * Worship * Thankfulness * The Word * Prayer * Declarations * Church “Experience” Environments * Healthy Relationships * Rest * Unhurried Life-Focus * Hopeful Imaginations
JOHN 4:34 NKJVJesus said to them, "My FOOD is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.”
ACTION STEPS 1. How will you overhaul at least ONE SYSTEM to STOP the DRAINS?
2. How will you overhaul at least ONE SYSTEM to BOOST your CHARGE?
Write it down now. Tell somebody you trust. Come to the rest of the series!
VISION AND LIFEPOINTE 2018 GOALS Jesus has called all of us to a MISSION, a SUPER BOWL. Our mission is to partner with Jesus to establish his Kingdom on this earth.
We describe that VISION as…
“We introduce people to the REAL JESUS
and the POWER OF REDEMPTION!”
God won’t do this FOR us, OR INSTEAD of us. God partners WITH us.
1 CORINTHIANS 9:24-27 NSBT - NORRIS SUPER BOWL TRANSLATION (NLT)Don't you realize that in a FOOTBALL GAME (race) everyone EXECUTES GAME PLANS (runs), but only one TEAM (person) WINS THE SUPER BOWL (gets the prize)? So EXECUTE (run) to win! 25 All ATHLETES are disciplined in their TRAINING. They do it to win THE SUPER BOWL (a prize) that will fade away, but we do it for an ETERNAL PRIZE. 26 So I run with PURPOSE (intensity) in EVERY STEP. I am not just PLAYING RECREATIONAL GAMES (shadowboxing). 27 I DISCIPLINE my body like an ATHLETE, TRAINING it to do what it should…
4 CHURCH ENVIRONMENTS / 4 FOOTBALL ENVIRONMENTS 1. Sundays / Sunday Game Day or Football Sundays 2. Groups / Locker Rooms 3. Workshops / Classroom or Playbook Teaching 4. Teams or Feedback / Practice Fields or Coaching
GOALS NOMENCLATURE * EACH PERSON picks up a yard * ANY ONE TEAM/GROUP moving us to a goal makes a first down. * EVERY TEAM/GROUP moving us to a goal makes a touchdown. * IF WE SUCCEED IN ALL 4 AREAS OF THE GAME PLAN, we will win the game. * IF WE DO IT WEEK AFTER WEEK we will make it to our Super Bowl and win
1 - SUNDAYS (GAME DAY - SURRENDER) 1 CORINTHIANS 14:24-25 AMP But if all …speak a new message from God to the people, and an UNBELIEVER or OUTSIDER comes in, he is convicted [of his sins] by all, and he is called to account by all [because he can understand what is being said]; 25 the SECRETS OF HIS HEART ARE LAID BARE. And so, falling on his face, HE WILL WORSHIP GOD, declaring that God is really among you.
SUNDAY GOALS * INVITES FROM LIFEPOINTERS – Each 1 Reach 1 Each Month * NEW VISITORS PER WEEK – 10 Adults & Children * SALVATIONS PER WEEK – 2 Per Week / 104 Per Year * CHURCH GROWTH – 150 New Weekly / 300 Total * START TRACK – 7 From Visitors Per Week / 100 Existing LifePointers
2 - GROUPS (LOCKER ROOM - COMMUNITY) GROUPS GOALS * NEW GROUP ATTENDERS – 27 New Adult Attenders * NEW GROUP HOSTS (LEADERS) – 7 New Group Hosts & New Groups
3 - TRAINING (FILM ROOM - SEEKING) TRAINING GOALS * WORKSHOPS SATURATION – 75 Adults/Students 1 Hour Per Week * PRAYER FIREPIT/COLLECTIVES – 10 New Prayers * RECOVERY GROUPS – 25 Conquer / 20 General / 15 Grief
4 - TEAM (PRACTICE FIELD & COACHING – SERVE) TEAM GOALS * INTENSITY & FEEDBACK – Each 1 Learn and Practice * NEW TEAM VOLUNTEERS – 7 New Each Month * NEW KIDS COACHES – 4 Female / 4 Male * TEAM NIGHT ATTENDANCE – 50 New * DISCIPLESHIP – Development/Feedback Meetings 1-2x Per Month
HEART 4 THE HOUSE GOALS * GROWTH GIVERS – 50 New Increased Percentage Givers * TITHE GIVERS (10%) – 20 New Tithe Givers * SERVANT GIVERS (Beyond 10%) – 10 New Servant Givers * ONLINE RECURRING GIVERS – 20 New Online Recurring
GLOBAL DREAMS GOALS * NEW CAMPUS – $10,000,000 Property & Campus Buildings * ONLINE SUNDAY LIVE STREAM – 100 New Weekly * GLOBAL MEDIA PLATFORM + TV Show, Podcast, E-Masterclasses, E-Workshops, Online Recovery Groups (Pastors too), Network to Professionals, etc. * LP MISSIONS GIVING – 10+% + Church plants, Other Church Campaigns, Ministries, Global Missions, Outreaches, Marketing Evangelism, etc.
THE BUCKET LIST A Bucket List is a list of all the…
- Goals you want to achieve,
- Dreams you want to fulfill
- Life experiences you desire to experience
…before you die.
How will 2018 be remembered? Will it be just another year, or will it be a year to be remembered? I believe God is setting you up for EXPONENTIAL growth and fruitfulness. EXPONENTIAL growth is exhibited by your rate of change for increase. For years you may have felt like you were only seeing INCREMENTAL changes. 2018 is a year that God is gracing us for EXPONENTIAL changes in every area of life.
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES QUESTION: When you win the dream,
who will be holding
the trophy with you
on the Victory Platform?
QUESTION: When you get to
the summit of the mountain,
who will you take your selfie with?
EPHESIANS 3:17-21 NIV [The Apostle Paul said] … I pray that you, being rooted and established in LOVE, 18 may have POWER, TOGETHER with all the Lord's holy people, to GRASP how wide and long and high and deep is the LOVE OF CHRIST, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of ALL THE FULLNESS OF GOD. 20 Now to Him who is able to do IMMEASURABLY MORE than ALL WE ASK or IMAGINE, according to his POWER that is at work WITHIN US, 21 to him be glory in the CHURCH and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
TRUTH: God’s power BEGINS
with shared experiences,
then CONVERTS
our dreams to extravagances.
TRUTH: When people are ALREADY there,
they are ALREADY there for us!
REASONS FOR “NO”:
- “We are too busy.”
- “My wife and I schedules don’t match up.”
- “I don’t like people!”
- “There is nobody like me!”
WHO, OR WHAT GROUP, IS A …
- HEALING place for your WOUNDS?
- SAFE place to TRANSFORM?
- SPIRITUAL place to EXPERIENCE GOD?
- TRUTHFUL place to PREVENT YOU?
- WISE place to impact your “IMMEASURABLY MORE?”
THE BUCKET LIST A Bucket List is a list of all the…
- Goals you want to achieve,
- Dreams you want to fulfill
- Life experiences you desire to experience
…before you die.
How will 2018 be remembered? Will it be just another year, or will it be a year to be remembered? I believe God is setting you up for EXPONENTIAL growth and fruitfulness. EXPONENTIAL growth is exhibited by your rate of change for increase. For years you may have felt like you were only seeing INCREMENTAL changes. 2018 is a year that God is gracing us for EXPONENTIAL changes in every area of life.
TODAY'S SERMON NOTES If I’m going to EXPERIENCE my Bucket List items,
I’m going to have to be DEVELOPED!
Our UNDEVELOPED GIFTS are often perceived
as having NO GIFTS at all.
If you want to make a difference
you must have a MENTOR
who gives you FEEDBACK and INTENTIONAL TRAINING.
LUKE 2:40, 46-47, 52 NIV And the child [Jesus] GREW and BECAME STRONG; he was FILLED WITH WISDOM, and the grace of God was on him. ... 46 …they found him in the temple courts, SITTING AMONG THE TEACHERS, LISTENING to them (intentional training) and ASKING them questions (feedback). 47 Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. ... 52 And Jesus GREW in WISDOM and STATURE, and in FAVOR WITH GOD and MAN.
LIES WE BELIEVE * ABOUT ME + “I can’t figure me out.” + “I sabotage everything.” + “I’m worth nothing.” + “OR I don’t need any feedback, because I’m smarter, faster, and better gifted.”
-
ABOUT GOD
- “God is disappointed in me.”
- “God hates me.”
- “God is passive in my life.”
- “If God wanted something to happen it would have.”
-
ABOUT POWERLESSNESS
- “I am powerless.”
- “If I take responsibility nothing changes.”
- “Being a Christian requires I passively wait on God to move.”
- “I am the victim of my life.”
-
ABOUT LIMITATIONS
- “I am limited by my natural giftings, talents and thinking.”
- “God sends me off to make a difference and return with the bounty.”
- “I do things for God, rather than with God.”
WHAT IS FEEDBACK? The communication from an outside perspective about a personal performance area. Feedback isn’t a rebuke or correction. It is simply perspective and wisdomfrom another person. Good feedback makes us better. Good feedback is about what “we do,” rather than attacking “who we are.” It’s about performance and actions, NOT identity.
PROVERBS 11:14 AMP Where no WISE GUIDANCE is, the people fall, but in the multitude of COUNSELORS there is safety.
PERSONAL QUESTIONS 1. On a scale of 1-10 (ten being the highest), how strong are you at receiving feedback? 2. What could you do specifically to improve your feedback for development? 3. In what area of your life could you use helpful feedback?
ACTION ITEMS * START TRACK * GROUPS * WORKSHOPS * TEAMS
THE BUCKET LIST A Bucket List is a list of all the…
- Goals you want to achieve,
- Dreams you want to fulfill
- Life experiences you desire to experience
…before you die.
How will 2018 be remembered? Will it be just another year, or will it be a year to be remembered? I believe God is setting you up for EXPONENTIAL growth and fruitfulness. EXPONENTIAL growth is exhibited by your rate of change for increase. For years you may have felt like you were only seeing INCREMENTAL changes. 2018 is a year that God is gracing us for EXPONENTIAL changes in every area of life.
TEXT ACTS 2:16-17 NKJV But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 'And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall PROPHESY, Your young men shall see VISIONS, Your old men shall DREAM dreams.
PROVERBS 29:18 MSG If people CAN’T SEE what God is doing, they STUMBLEall over themselves; But when they attend to what he REVEALS, they are most BLESSED.
CONSIDERATIONS OF DREAMS 1. God's dreams happen in God's presence 2. God's dream just go from inspiration to participation 3. God's dreams continue regardless of what you see
5 KINDS OF PEOPLE TUNING IN: 1. NO Dream 2. WRONG Dream 3. STALE Dream 4. VAGUE Dream 5. GOD HONORING, CULTURE DEFYING, HEAVEN IMPACTING, SEEMINGLY IMPOSSIBLE Dream
A PICTURE OF YOUR FUNERAL * If you had a funeral today, who would come? * What would they say about you? * Will it have mattered that you lived? * Finally, what would God say about you?
DIMENSIONS OF IMPACT * Friends/Relationships * Marriage * Parenting * Mentees * Career choice * Church Teams * Church Groups * Church Missions * Legacy
What will you have to say “NO” to, so you can say “YES” to greater things?
THE BUCKET LIST A Bucket List is a list of all the…
- Goals you want to achieve,
- Dreams you want to fulfill
- Life experiences you desire to experience
…before you die.
How will 2018 be remembered? Will it be just another year, or will it be a year to be remembered? I believe God is setting you up for EXPONENTIAL growth and fruitfulness. EXPONENTIAL growth is exhibited by your rate of change for increase. For years you may have felt like you were only seeing INCREMENTAL changes. 2018 is a year that God is gracing us for EXPONENTIAL changes in every area of life.
TEXT ACTS 2:16-17 NKJV But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 'And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall PROPHESY, Your young men shall see VISIONS, Your old men shall DREAM dreams.
PROVERBS 29:18 MSG If people CAN’T SEE what God is doing, they STUMBLE all over themselves; But when they attend to what he REVEALS, they are most BLESSED.
CONSIDERATIONS OF DREAMS 1. God's dreams happen in God's presence 2. God's dream just go from inspiration to participation 3. God's dreams continue regardless of what you see
5 KINDS OF PEOPLE TUNING IN: 1. NO Dream 2. WRONG Dream 3. STALE Dream 4. VAGUE Dream 5. GOD HONORING, CULTURE DEFYING, HEAVEN IMPACTING, SEEMINGLY IMPOSSIBLE Dream
DREAM EXPERIENCES WITH GOD * What would it look like to live a life without any hindrances or limitations with God? * What would be your greatest ambition to experience with God? * Would you dream of experiencing a bon-a-fide MIRACLE with God? * How would He converse with you? * What kinds of things would you experience? * How would you define a Bucket List intimacy with God? * How would you converse with God? * What can you conceive in 2018?
What will you have to say “NO” to, so you can say “YES” to greater things?