Fletcher Church: Recent Episodes
Chris Fowler
Christ-Centered Wisdom Warns and Instructs . . . I. Beware of Harming the Church: Remember God dwells in and among us! (16-17) II. Beware of Self-Deception: Follow the Path to True Wisdom! (18-20) III. Beware of False Boasting: Boast in Christ b/c all is Ours in Him! (21-23)
Practical Implications o What does it mean for us practically that we are the holy place? o How can you discern areas of self-deception in your life? o How can you apply the wisdom renewal process this week? [Recognize, Empty, Refill]
God-Centered Perspective Reframes our Thinking . . . I. How Should we think about Ourselves and Our Leaders? (5-9)
II. How should we think about Our Lives and What they are Building? (10-15)
Practical Implications o What are some ways self is too central in your life?
o What are you building with your life?
o What would it look like for Christ to be the foundation for all of life?
The Mature Embrace Christ-Centered Wisdom . . .
I. Comes from Revelation not Discovery! (2:9-13) II. Should be Progressive; beware of Stalling! (2:14-3:2) III. Can be Tested; Wisdom always Acts! (3:3-4)
Practical Implications o What are some of your areas of maturity? Immaturity? o What is your plan to progress or keep progressing? o Where is the flesh still dominant in your life? The Spirit?
The Mature Embrace Christ-Centered Wisdom . . . I. They Recognize the Difference Between Worldly Wisdom and God’s! (6-9) II. They Base their Wisdom on God’s Revelation not Human Understanding or Eloquence! (10-13)
Practical Implications o What lens/wisdom most informs your daily life? o How often are you spending meaningful time in the word? o Prepare for Supper: (Warning, Welcome, Worship)
Knowing the crucified Christ humbles the wise, transforming the soul . . . I. Creating Meek Messengers Who Deliver an Unassuming Message! (1-3) II. By Rejecting the Persuasion of Gimmicks in Favor of Spirit-Filled Power! (4) III. Whose Faith Rests in the Power of God Rather than the Wisdom of Man! (5)
Practical Implications o In what ways have you died to yourself lately? Do you need to? o What has happened recently that made you love Jesus more than things? o Is your faith resting in the power of God or restless in the wisdom of men?
Christ-Centered Boasting is the Key to Unity . . . I. Consider Yourself: It’s Humbling! (26) II. Consider God’s Work: It Exalts Him! (27-28) III. Consider God’s Purpose: to Save for His Glory! (29-31)
Practical Implications o What worldly boasts/values most tempt you? o What 5 things can you “brag” on Jesus about? Who can you voice that to? o How can you move one step closer in your relationships?
Be Confident in the Scandalous Message of the Cross . . . I. Am I ok being thought Foolish because of my Confidence in the Cross? (18-20) II. Do I want to make God more Palatable vs being Confident in His Self-Revelation? (21) III. Do I chase Experiences or Evidence instead of Simple Certainty in Christ? (22-25) Practical Implications o Where am I tempted to be embarrassed of the cross and its values? o Where am I tempted to downplay parts of God or demands of God? o What five things about the cross stir my affections? o Continue Your 30-Day Speaking Challenge:
An Appeal for Christ-Centered Unity and Community . . I. A Christ-Centered Appeal! (10) II. A Man-Shaped Reason! (11-12) III. A Cross-Shaped Way Forward! (13-17) Practical Implications o How can you practically foster a deeper unity with others? o Where are the tears in your relationships? o Continue your 30-Day Speaking Challenge: o Prepare for the Supper:
Lots to Be Thankful for, God is Faithful . . .
I. We have a New Identity in Christ! (1-3)
II. We have been Given Grace to Wait Faithfully Together for Christ! (4-6)
III. We are Secured to Stand Guiltless before Him in Christ! (7-9)
Practical Implications
o What Old Identity most often defines you?
o What can you give thanks for in someone daily?
o How faithful are you with your gifts, passion and commitment in/through the local church?
The Gospel Speaks to the Everyday Stuff of Life . . .
I. Jesus-Centered Unity to Mend Division! (Ch 1-4)
Key Verses: 1:18, 23-24
II. Jesus’ Faithfulness Speaks to Marriage, Intimacy, Singleness & Calling! (Ch 5-7)
Key Verses: 5:7, 6:11,20
III. Gospel Love Governs Gospel Freedoms! (Ch 8-10)
Key Verses: 8:1, 10:31-33
IV. Jesus’ Sacrifice Gives Purpose and Direction to our Gatherings! (Ch 11-14)
Key Verses: 11:23-26
V. Jesus’ Resurrection is Central to our Faith! (Ch 15)
Key Verses: 15:13-14, 17-19; 54-57
Practical Implications
o Define 2-3 Problems:
o Write 3-5 Gospel Realities:
o List 3-5 practical biblical truths to apply:
Pray for an Ever-Deepening Intimate Knowing of God . . .
I. Who do we Pray to? (15-17a)
II. What do we pray for? (17b-18a)
III. Why do we need that? (18b-23)
Practical Implications
o What 5 names or qualities of God are most precious to you?
o How can you prioritize and pursue knowing God deeply?
o If you 100% believe this- what is one thing you would do different this week?
Prayer is Foundational to the Transformed Life.Becoming like Jesus means loving others, as Jesus did.As we are transformed into the image of Christ, our prayers can move mountains.
Pray God will use prayer to transform us into the image of Jesus and use our prayers to work his will and transform the world.
Pray & Work for a Unity that Enhances Mission . . . Pray and Work . . . I. For a Unity with Content: The Gospel Word! (20) II. For a Unity that is Robust: Relational Richness of the Trinity! (21, 22) III. For the Purpose of Unity: Missions! (21, 23, 25) IV. With Heart of Missions: God’s Love (23,26) V. Looking to the Destination of Missions: Heaven (24)
Practical Implications o How much does the intimacy level of your marriage (or closest friendships) show reality of Jesus? Why? o What might the Spirit be pressing on you as next step in unity and community with others/church?
Jesus Guards Our Faith Through Prayer . . . I. Meditate on the Sacrificial Work of Christ Which Offers Eternal Life! (1-5) II. Rejoice That Jesus Keeps You by His Word & Power! (6-14) III. Give Your Life to Reflect His Glory & Share His Story! (15-19)
Practical Implications o Whose glory are you praying for? Living for? o How has the ministry of Christ produced joy in you lately? o Where is God calling you to reflect His glory? To share His story?
The Gospel Moves us from Shameful to Singing . . . I. See and Grieve our Sin as Sin! (1-5) A. Pitfalls: 1. Excuse, minimize, blame shift 2. Measure Manward vs. Godward 3. Law of God vs. Heart of God 4. Act of sin vs. Depths of Sinfulness II. Confess the Forgiving & Restoring Grace of God! (6-9) III. Seek Change by God’s Empowering Grace! (10-17)
Practical Implications o Where do you get hung up in the process of repentance? o What would concrete biblical change look like for you today? o Walk through the Put Off/Renew/Put on Process this week, and tell someone about it.
I. Recognize God’s Sovereignty! (1-6) II. Remember God’s Faithfulness! (7-11) III. Rest in God’s Provision! (12-17) IV. Rejoice in God’s Salvation! (18-30)
God is Pleased with Prayerful Dependence . . . I. Dependence Recalls God’s Past Faithfulness! (3-6) II. Dependence Humbly Acknowledges God’s Sovereignty and our Need! (7-8) III. Dependence Asks for God’s Wisdom! (9)
Practical Implications o Where have you seen God’s faithfulness to you in the past? o How are you identifying pride in your life? How are you actively cultivating humility?o What areas do you need the wisdom of God currently?
Prayer is an Invitation to an Intimate Relationship with God, So . . .
I. Ask God to Show You His Way, So That You Can Know Him Personally! (33:12-14)
II. Ask God to Remind You of His Presence, So That You Can Realize Your Identity! (33:15-17)
III. Ask God to Show You His Glory, So That You Can Respond Rightly! (33:18—34:9)
Practical Implications
o Examine your prayer life. What do you desire more, God or His blessings? What needs to change?
o In what ways do you need to be reminded of God’s presence with you today? How would that affect your perspective on life/circumstances?
o How can you gaze on the glory of God by beholding Christ today?
Pray with Intensity . . .
I. Intense Prayer focuses on Praise! (5-6a)
II. Intense Prayer pauses to Reflect & Confess! (6b-7)
III. Intense Prayer requests Based on the Word and Purposes of God! (8-10)
IV. Intense Prayer leads to Action! (11)
Practical Implications
o What is going on in your life now that could evoke intense praying?
o What elements of prayer should you add to prayer life? How?
o What truths most stir your affections for God?
The Gospel of the Kingdom will Accomplish God’s Purposes...
I. Be Warned: Exposure - Application = Dulled Heart! (23-27)
II. Be Encouraged: God will Continue to Save! (28-31)
III. Be Challenged: Will we Continue to Share? (Acts 29)
Practical Implications
o What are some ways you focus on kingdom of self? God?
o What around you needs restoring, flourishing?
o How are you enlivening your heart? Dulling it?
Weather the Storm by Trusting God’s Promises… I. Understand His Providence: God Accomplishes His Plans through Ordinary Means! II. Remember His Purpose: God’s Path Is Good Even When It Doesn’t Look Like It! III. Experience His Presence: Jesus Is with Us in the Storm!
Practical Implications o What storms are going on in your life right now? How do they tempt you to believe God is not in control? o How might God be working in your circumstances to make you godly & bring Him glory? o Are you positioning yourself to experience the presence of Christ?
Seeing the Risen Christ Compels Transformation … I. Something to Turn From! (Var) II. Someone to Turn To! (Var) III. Something to Do! (Var) Practical Implications o How can you cultivate a clearer seeing of Jesus? o What do you need to turn from, specifically? o What do you need to turn to, biblical and specific?
Christ Our Only Hope in Life and Death . . . I. How do we Stand Before Others? Free from Legitimate Accusations! (1-9) II. How will We Stand Before God? Gospel Hope! (10-21) III. How will we Speak with Others? Gospel Faith, Living and Future! (22-27)
Practical Implications
- How have you experienced and fought criticism and gossip?
- How has the gospel shown up in your faith, your living and your hope?
- Prepare for the Supper.
Gospel Courage leads us to Show up and Share a Jesus Centered Testimony . . . I. What was your life like before Christ? (1-5)II. How did you Encounter Jesus in a Saving Way? (6-11)III. How has Knowing Jesus Transformed you (lately)? (12-21)
Practical Implications o What is your story?
o What are 3 things would you do differently this week if …?
o What are some ways you have changed lately? Seen change in someone’s life lately
Jesus’ Tender Mercy Is on Display Even as His Sovereign Plan Unfolds . . .
I. Jesus’ Sovereign Power Demands Worship! (36-40)
II. Jesus’ Tender Mercy Compels Worship! (41-42)
III. Don’t Miss Your Opportunity to Make Peace with God! (43-44)
Practical Implications
o What areas of your life are not under the rule of the Sovereign God?
o In what ways does your heart not reflect the Tender Mercy of Jesus?
o In what ways are you quenching the Spirit’s work in your life?
Treasure Christ Supremely . . . I. Be Saved to See the Worth of Knowing Jesus! (7-9) II. Be Satisfied in Becoming Like Jesus! (10) III. Be Hopeful you will Rise to Jesus! (11-12) Practical Implications o What 5 things about Jesus are precious to you (not platitudes to you)? o What competes most with Christ for the central place in your life? o How does the thought of heaven increase your hope?
Better to Lose your Life than Waste it (Piper) . . . I. Live in a Way that Commends the Gospel! (17-19, 33ff) II. Rely on and Minister the Word to People! (20-21; 24b-25; 26-27; 31-32) III. Gladly be Mastered by God come what May! (22-24) IV. Love the Church! (28-32a)
Practical Implications o How do you interpret and apply “Better to Lose your life than to waste it” where you are? o Do an Unwasted Life Review o Prepare for Supper:
Better to Lose your Life than Waste it (Piper) . . . I. Live in a Way that Commends the Gospel! (17-19, 33ff)II. Rely on and Minister the Word to People! (20-21; 24b-25; 26-27; 31-32) III. Gladly be Mastered by God come what May! (22-24) IV. Love the Church! (28-32a) Practical Implications o How do you interpret and apply “Better to Lose your life than to waste it” where you are? o Do an Unwasted Life Review
God’s Word Has Prevailing Power… I. The Message of Jesus Requires Belief that Leads to Life Change. (1-10) II. Belief: Freeing People from the Power of Sin through Repentance & Worship. (11-20) III. Unbelief: Trusting Idols Causes Retreat from & Resistance to God. (21-41)
Practical Implications
- Where do I see unbelief producing the fruit of unrighteousness in my life?
- In what ways are you pretending to know Jesus? Are you relying on past experiences or present intimacy?
- What idols do you love, trust, hope in more than God?
God Sovereignly Placed you in your Circles for a Purpose . . . I. Spiritual Places: Engage Unsaved Christians! (1-15) II. Everyday Places: Care for Broken People! (16-22) III. Suffering Places: Display Hope for Everyday People! (23-40)
Practical Implications How can you cultivate gospel ears and gospel courage? How do you view broken people?
How do you handle suffering?
Fight to Preserve the Essence of the Gospel . . . I. Gospel Clarity: Non-Negotiables! (1-11) II. Gospel Liberty: No Other Burdens! (12-29) III. Gospel Unity: Love Governs Liberty! (23-35)Practical Implications o Some things are worth Fighting For, Make sure it’s the Right Things: o What are you tempted to add to Jesus (Law, Liberty) o How can you prepare for the Supper/reflect the Supper in all of Life?
Everyday Life on Mission . . .I. Understand the Anatomy of Engaging a People or Place! (11:19-30) II. Expect Suffering as Part of Life in this World, as a Christian, and on Mission! (Ch 12)
Practical Implicationso What are your next steps for Everyday Mission? o What keeps you from Praying w/ Boldness? Answers? o Review back of Sheet: What stands out? What would you add? Musings on SufferingGod Centered Perspective:
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Our Purpose in Life reframes the question: from why me to how do I show a superior satisfaction in Him! (2 Cor 5:9)
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Produces greater eternal glory in/for us (2 Cor 4:16-18)
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Life in Fallen world: Groaning and Redemption (Rom 8:22-25)
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God has a wisdom/power beyond our vantage point (Rom 11:33-36)
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Why is rarely answered but the Who is always answered (Job 40-42)
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God entered the world and suffered on the cross (Mt 27:46)
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God will do right and make all things right one day. (Rev 21:4) How do we Suffer Well:
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Learn to Lament/Grieve Well before God: (Psalms)
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Keep Praying: Don’t let God disappear from trial.
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Lean into God as He is; all that He is
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Root out our idols/disordered loves- Cling to/Move towards Christ
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Meditate on our eternal hope - Stay in Community- resist the urge to isolate.
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In Time- Find Someone to Love and Serve - Stay faithful to the means of grace/disciplines Why do we Suffer? (*No “Answer” but some ideas)
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*Beware of a Greater Good mentality.
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Weans us from Love Affair w/ this World/Life
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Tests the strength of our faith (goal of approving)
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Works humility and compassion in us
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Exposes our disordered loves/deepest treasures
-Deepens our heavenly hope
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Become more genuinely helpful to others
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Opportunity to glorify God w/ Tears: Display God is better than what we can/will lose in this life (Ps 63:3)
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Necessary in the Process of maturity and hope (Ja 1:2-4; Rom 5:1-5) What is helpful in this list to you? Why? What else would you add?
A Barrier Breaking Gospel that Keeps Moving Forward…
I. Devout but Still Dead: The Gospel is a Universal Need! (1-8)II. Still in Process: The Spirit Forces us Past Personal Bias and Comforts! (9-29)III. No Partiality with God: The Gospel is a Universal Offer! (34-48; 11:1-18)Practical Implicationso What are some areas of your life with image of fruit vs.fruitful?o Where is God stretching your lately?o What groups is your heart tempted to despise?
Conversion comes with a Commission . . .
I. Spiritual Blindness- We are Blind but think we See Clearly, until we Encounter Jesus! (1-9)
II. Spiritual Sight- God Restores our Sight by His Spirit and His People! (10-19a)
III. Spiritual Burden- We can See People the Way Jesus Does! (19b-31)
Practical Implications
o How can you identify some of your blind spots?
o Where/who are you holding back from Speaking?
o How are your participating in Every Member on Mission?
The Scattered Church Aims for Maturity in Christ through ...
I. Gospel Centered Teaching and Warning! (28)
II. Gospel Centered Effort and Serving! (29)
Practical Implications
o In what ways are you scattering well? Ways growth is needed?
o What ways are you resting well in gospel? What ways are you working from the gospel well? Poorly?
o Prepare for the Supper:
Process and Purpose
Gathering: God exalting gathering leads us to experience God in community in a way that leads to responsiveness.
Sunday School: Invited to community that share content that fosters the treasuring of Christ; gateway to connecting into relationships; invited to serve others w/ our gifts.
Micro Group: Increasingly known/know; encouraged to fight sin; be reminded of Jesus/gospel; and to prompted to pursue holiness/positive Christian life. Meeting Balances MAPS
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M- Mission: Where/Who/What next?
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A- Accountability: Fight sin, point to gospel, pursue holiness.
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P- Prayer: For live stuff, mission, growth.
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S- Scripture: Heart Targeting Content; Content taken deeper.
The Church Gathers . . .
I. God Centered- Encounter
II. Others Focused- Encourage
III. Personal Growth- Transform
Practical Implications
- How can you cultivate a more God-centered perspective on and while gathering?
- Our Role in Gathering: Show up … show up ready; Participate/Engage; Be Responsive/Sensitive:
- What 1-2 areas is God calling you to focused growth?
Essentials of a Church/Community that Glorifies God …
I. Love: the Posture! (8)
II. Hospitality: the Value! (9)
III. Giftedness: the Practice! (10-11)
Practical Implications
o What unloving traits do you see in yourself? What loving ones could you put on to replace them?
o How can you increase your hospitality?
o What would faithfulness to using your gifts look like right now?
The War Has Been Won, But a Battle Remains . . .
I. Mission Brief: ___________ Dealt a ______________ to the Dragon! (1-6)
II. Intel: The Dragon Schemes to ___________ and ___________! (7-10)
III. Counterattack: ___________ the Dragon with the ___________ of the Spirit! (11)
Practical Implications
o In what ways have you been lulled to sleep by the enemy?
o Are you speaking accusation or Gospel truth to self & others?
o What shots do you want to take for the Kingdom of God in 2025?
Christmas Brings Us Great Joy Because . . .
I. God Offers Great News to All People, Even the Lowly and Outcast! (8-10)
II. God Offers a Great Savior Who Extends Peace to His Enemies! (11-14)
III. God Offers a Great Opportunity to Experience His Nearness! (15-16)
IV. God Offers a Great Privilege to Joyfully Participate in the Mission of God! (17-20)
Application Questions
o Have you experienced the nearness of God by entering into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? If not, what is holding you back from believing?
o What about the birth of Christ produces joy in your heart? How can you ponder those truths this Christmas?
o Who in your circles needs to hear about the good news that Christ offers this Christmas season? How can you share with them what Christ has done for you?
At Christmas God Became Flesh . . .
I. To Reveal Salvation to the World! (9-13)
II. To Dwell with People so God could be Fully Known! (14-18)
Practical Implications
o How can you carve out some quiet this Christmas?
o What amazes you about Jesus (continued)?
Mission requires us to See Something Worth Sacrificing For ...
I. See an All-Consuming Vision of God’s Glory! (1-4)
II. See the Depths of our Sin and the Breadth of our Redemption! (5-7)
III. Hear the Call to Sacrificially Give, Go, and Send! (8-11)
Practical Implications
o How can you more intentionally seek the Lord?
o What are your barriers to being open to go across the street or across the world?
o How will you determine the Amount to Sacrificially Give?
Eat, Be Full, and Bless the Lord for the Good He Has Given You . . .
I. Remember the God Who Led You through the Wilderness! (1-10)
II. Don’t Forget the God Who Brought You into Prosperity! (11-20)
III. Certain Lessons Are Only Learned in the Wilderness & Must Be Remembered in Prosperity!
Practical Implications
o What are you thankful for?
o When have you been in the wilderness? What did you learn about God there?
o What do you need to remember about God’s character as a loving Father when He disciplines you?
Be Spiritually Alert to Divine Appointments with Others . . .
I. Divine Appointments take God’s Initiative, Our Discomfort and Obedience! (26-29)
II. Divine Appointments travel from a Connection Point to Bearing Witness to Jesus! (30-35)
III. Divine Appointments Invite a Response and Commitment to Jesus! (36-40)
Practical Implications
o How can you be more alert to others?
o What barriers need to be crucified in your life?
o What connections can you cultivate and follow?
God Sends us to Everyday Mission . . .
I. Embrace the Common Elements of Everyday Mission! (1-8)
II. Look out for the Promise and Pitfalls of Everyday Mission! (9-25)
Practical Implications
o What Every Member on Mission Step can you take this week?
o What 5 ways can you serve someone around you this week?
o What would change if we assumed people were lost vs. saved?
Biblical Problem Solving Leads to Health and Growth …
I. What’s the Problem? Identify the Problem Specifically! (1-2)
II. What’s the Solution? Handle the Problem God’s Way! (3-7)
Practical Implications
o What steps do you need to take to better identify problems in your relationships?
o What are some biblical solutions w/ verses for the problems inside you and your relationships?
o Prepare for the Supper:
Following Jesus Requires That You Cultivate Courage…
I. Take Small Steps Toward Deliberate Discomfort! (17-26)
II. Remember Who You Are and Whom You Serve! (27-32)
III. Joyfully Accept the Consequences & Stay Zeroed in on the Mission! (33-42)
Practical Implications
o What are a few baby steps you can take to stretch your courage?
o What causes you to shrink back from sharing what you have seen?
o How are you responding to suffering and persecution? What might joyful obedience look like for you?
Gospel Community takes Generosity and Purity Seriously . . .
I. Gospel Community is Enhanced by Shared Lives, Generosity and Genuineness! (4:32-37)
II. Gospel Community is Threatened by Impurity and Image without Substance! (1-11)
III. Gospel Generosity is both a Duty and a Delight! (2 Cor 8-9)
Practical Implications
o How are you presently fighting sin in your life? How are you helping others fight theirs?
o What is your current state of gospel generosity?
o Take the One Month Worshipful Giving Challenge:
The Spirit Birthed Church is a Vibrant community that Values:
I. Discipleship in Community: Jesus being Formed in us and Shown Through us! (41-42)
II. Shared Life in Community: Shared Meals, Open Homes and Generosity! (42b, 44-46)
III. Witness through Community: Offer a Taste of Belonging to those Far from God! (43, 46, 47)
Practical Implications
o Using “love Jesus, like Jesus, about others” framework: what areas encouraging in life now? Needing growth?
o What is your next step in shared life and hospitality?
o How can your relational community invite others in?
You Can Know for Certain that Jesus is both Lord &Christ.
I. Because He Sent the Holy Spirit Just Like He Promised! (14-21)
II. Because Jesus’ Resurrection Fulfilled Scripture and was Confirmed by Eyewitnesses! (22-36)
III. Requiring a Response to Humble Surrender to HisKingdom Rule! (37-41)
Practical Implications
o In what ways are you quenching the Spirit? Developing sensitivity to the Spirit?
o Do an inventory of your heart: Where is Jesus not Lord?
o How can you move toward one person to Listen, Engage, & Invite to follow Jesus?
The Coming of the Spirit Gives Birth to the Church . . .
I. Listen to the Message: Supernatural Sign Marks the New Age of Christ! (1-4, 10)
II. It’s For you and All Peoples: The Global Audience for the Gospel! (5-10)
III. A Response is Required: Some are Open and Some Reject! (6-7, 12-13)
Practical Implications
o How can you create opportunities for sharing with others?
o What “differences” may the Spirit be breaking down in your heart?
o How can you prepare for the Supper?
Bear Witness to Jesus . . .
I. Watch out for Distractions! (6-7)
II. We have Power for the Task Jesus left us! (8)
III. We have a Future Hope to Motivate us Today! (9-11)
Practical Implications
o Where are you tempted to get stuck in the here and now kingdom?
o How can we practically cultivate life in the Spirit that leads to witness?
o How does the return of Christ encourage you?
Acts of the Holy Spirit to Bring a Taste of God’s Expanding Kingdom to a Fallen World . . .
I. The King: Resurrected Christ
II. The Message of the Kingdom: Founding Documents
III. Kingdom Citizens: Believing Church
IV. The Kingdom’s Experience:
V. The Kingdom’s Opposition:
Practical Implications
o Have you Repented and Believed the Gospel?
o What is your next step as a citizen?
o How can you begin praying about a church plant?
Relationships are God’s Primary Context for Growth . . .
I. The Necessity of Relationships for Growth and Change! (24)
II. The Goal of Relationships of Growth and Change! (24)
III. Key Qualities of Relationships of Growth and Change! (25)
Practical Implications
o Embrace Relational-Discipleship Values (For the Glory of God:
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Openness- Know and be Known
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Prioritize Gathering and Time w/ Other Believers (not optional)
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Bring Good News not Good Advice that Comforts and Confronts
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Mutual and Accountable
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Humility and a Desire for Change
o Who are you considering, who’s considering you?
o What changes are needed in your relationships to get on God’s agenda?
God is Glorious (Great and Worthy) . . .
I. How should I Respond to God’s Greatness and Worth? (1-3)
II. Why is God Great and Worthy? (4, 6)
III. What Competes with God for Glory? (4c-5)
Practical Implications
o Embrace some God-Centered Values:
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He is Great, we are not = Good!
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Word Saturated Lives and Church!
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The Centrality of Jesus and the Gospel
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Salvation to the Praise of His Glory
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Content Rich Songs that build a vv. 1-4 life.
o What are your primary competitors?
o What amazes you about Jesus (sit down in a truth that sticks)?
Stare at Christ, He is sufficient to fulfill His promises & accomplish His purposes...
I. In the Face of Abandonment, Laborers are still Sent Out! (9-11)II. In the Face of Opposition, Some will Remain Faithful!(12-15)
III. In the Face of Loneliness, Christ’s Presence Sustainsthe Soul! (16-20)
Practical Application
o In what ways are you loving this present world? What would your calendar, bank account, anxieties say?
o What rhythms are you practicing to help you see life w/ an eternal perspective?
o What is one act of faithfulness to the mission of God that you can take this semester?
Embrace a Holistic Faithful Ministry of the Word!
I. This is a Sacred Trust from God! (1-2)
II. Drift is a Continual Threat and “Christians” will at Times Abandon the Truth! (3-5)
III. Christ is Coming and our Reward will be Eternal! (4-6)
Practical Implications
o How can you embrace a ministry of the word for yourself?
o How can you embrace a ministry of word to others?
o What’s your why?
I. Can We Choose What We Love? Yes!
a. We love what we pay attention to.
b. We love what we spend time with.
c. We love what we trade other things for.
d. We love what we invest in.
II. What Is the World?
a. Not referring to the Earth.
b. Not referring to the people in the world.
c. Referring to a system that is opposed to God.
III. What Are the Things in the World?
a. Desires of the Flesh—
b. Desires of the Eyes—
c. Pride of Life—
IV. Why Shouldn’t We Love the World or the Things in It?
a. Love for the world is incompatible with love for the Father.
b. The things of the world are inferior what the Father has for us.
c. The world and its things are temporary.
Continue Faithfully in the Gospel and Godliness . . .
I. By Integrating the Example of Others who Live w/ Christ-Centered Purpose! (10-13)
II. By Trusting the Bible is Sufficient for Everything you Will Face in this Life! (14-17)
Practical Implications
o What growth do you want to see in your core framework (Believe, Do, Living out purpose)?
o Where are you tempted to ignore, disconnect Sufficiency of Scripture from everyday area of life?
o What area of your life might God want to walk through the sufficiency process (reset view of God, restored way living, maturity, equipped to help others/engage significant relationships)?
God has given us a new identity through his grace and mercy that results in walking obedience to Jesus.
I. Dead in sin: Child of Wrath! (1-3)
II. Alive in Christ: Child of God! (4-9)
III. Live out your Identity! (10)
Practical Implications:
o Tell someone the story of when you came to know Jesus Christ. What were some things that changed? How has he been changing you?
o Do you struggle with believing your identity as a child of God? Why or why not?
o What are some ways your boasting has been in things other than the cross?
Beware of Twisting the Gospel to Accommodate Self . . .
I. Being Content with an External Image while Neglecting an Inner life in Decay! (1-5)
II. Pulling People Toward me vs. Pointing People towards Christ! (6-7)
III. Using Mental and Verbal Gymnastics to Justify Myself! (8-9)
Practical Implications
o Relentlessly Examine your Loves:
o Graciously Examine your Leaders:
o Critically Examine your Listens:
God Is Worthy of Praise Regardless of Circumstances Because . . .
I. Christ’s Salvation Produces an Unshakeable Joy! (17-18)
II. Christ’s Provision Promises an Unshakeable Future! (19)
Practical Applications
o Have you trusted in Jesus Christ alone for eternal salvation? If not, will you turn to Jesus to be saved today?
o How joyful are you currently? Is your joy contingent upon your circumstances or is it based in the character and work of Christ?
o Reflect on the goodness of God: What has He done, and what has He promised us in Christ? How is that better than what we can lose/have lost in this life? How do those truths offer us lasting hope?
Desire and Guard your Usefulness to the Lord . . .
I. There are some things to Run After and Run From! (20-22)
II. Discern what’s worth Engaging in and what’s just Distracting! (23)
III. Remember the Redemptive Power of Relationships! (Mal 4)
IV. Be Gentle, yet Committed to Correction (and Being Corrected)! (24-26)
Practical Implications
o What priorities of my life might God want to flip right side up?
o Do you tend to avoid or engage correcting? What might God want to grow in these areas?
o Do you engage people more with hope or reservation?
Keeping the Sabbath Feeds Your Soul . . .
I. Establish a Rhythm of Rest: God Is Our Provider!
II. Forsake Selfish, Distracting Desires; God Alone Gives True Satisfaction!
III. Value the Sabbath; God Defines Our Worth and Identity!
Practical Applications
o In what ways have you profaned the Sabbath? What might repentance look like?
o What is your Sabbath plan? What do you need to do to prepare for the Sabbath?
o What is taking your focus off delighting in Christ? How can you guard your Sabbath to refrain from these things?
Desire and Guard your Usefulness to the Lord . . .
I. There are some things to Run After and Run From! (20-22)
II. Discern what’s worth Engaging in and what’s just Distracting! (23)
III. Correct in Ways that Allow a Person to Grow and Change vs. Quarrel and Dig in! (24-26)
Practical Implications
o What hinders your maximum usefulness to the Lord?
o What would it look like for you to pursue righteousness, faith …?
o Where are you on the kindness and correction scale? What qualities or conversations do you need cultivate?
Keep the Gospel Central in All Things . . .
I. God Delights in Diligent Service and in Faithfulness to the Scriptures! (14-15)
II. What we Believe Always Shows up in How we Live! (16-19)
Practical Implications
o What stirs your soul about Jesus (Remember Jesus List)?
o What lesser things distract you from the most important things in life and relationships?
o What concrete things do you need to “put off”? “Put on”?
Keys to Endurance in Disciple making . . .
I. Remember the Gospel! (8)
II. Suffering Can be Framed by Purpose and Eternity! (9-10)
Implications
o Use healthy rhythms to actively remember Jesus!
o Identify your Obstacles.
o Test yourself for Present Growth:
Prioritize Making Disciples of Faithful People . . .
I. Disciple-making Requires God’s Strength and Work! (1)
II. Disciple-making Focuses on the Good News of Jesus and Identifying Faithful People! (2)
III. Disciple-making is Costly and Rewarding! (3-7)
Practical Implications
o Check your life for present grace and growth?
o Where has the Cost Caused Retreat?
o What’s the Obstacle?
Prioritize Making Disciples of Faithful People . . .
I. Disciple-making Requires God’s Strength and Work! (1)
II. Disciple-making Focuses on the Good News of Jesus and Identifying Faithful People! (2)
III. Disciple-making is Costly and Rewarding. (People work is painful work)! (3-7)
Practical Implications
o Check Yourself:
o Check Your Investments:
o Count the Cost:
Boldly Display and Declare the Glory of Jesus even when it’s Costly . . .
I. We have been Given Truth to Live, Share and Protect by the Power of God! (13-14)
II. People are Risky, but God Graciously Gives us Some Relationships to Refresh us! (15-18)
Practical Implications
o How would you describe your consistency and quality of time in the word/prayer?
o What are some tangible ways you could refresh/encourage another believer this week?
o Who are some of the people God uses/has used to encourage you?
Boldly Display and Declare the Glory of Jesus even when it’s Costly.
I. Be Courageous; God has Given you Gifts and a New Nature! (6-7)
II. Don’t Settle for Comfortable; the Gospel is too Glorious! (8-10)
III. Set an Example; we Know God and His Power! (11-12)
Practical Implications
o How do/can you stoke fire of your soul so it blazes for Jesus?
o Where are you tempted to be ashamed, silent or pulling back?
o Who and where are you on mission?
Encouragements to Cultivate the Fire of your Soul to Boldly Live out your Calling . . .
I. Form Deep Bonds of Spiritual Friendship/Family! (1-4)
II. Remember Your Spiritual Progress and Your Legacy of Faith! (5)
III. God Gifted You and Gave you a New Spirit! (6-7)
Practical Implications
o Pursue Spiritual Friendships that are mutually encouraging.
o Look for tangible evidences of God’s work in your life and others.
o Live God’s Purpose, Calling and Gifting w/ passion in everyday stuff of life.
As Christ's Body, we are purposefully joined together by the Holy Spirit according to God's good design.
I. The Holy Spirit Unites All Members into the Local Church from Diverse Backgrounds! (12-13)
II. God Has Designed a Specific Role for Each Member to Perform within the Local Church! (14-20)
III. God Has Ordained That Each Member's Role Is Indispensable for the Health of the Local Church! (21-26)
Practical Application Questions
- Have you trusted Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection for eternal salvation? If not, what is preventing you from the answering the call?
- Have you obeyed the call of God to be part of a local church? How faithful are you to that call?
- To which of the Seven Commitments are you most faithful? Which area requires the most improvement? What would be the first practical step to becoming more faithful in that area?
Jesus’ Resurrection makes us Dead to Sin and Alive to God...
I. So Practically, Make a New Calculation and Put yourself at the Disposal of God! (Rom 6:11-14)
II. So Honestly, Evaluate the Condition of your Soul and the Direction of your Eternity! (Matt 7:15-27)
Practical Implications
o What truths most stir your affections for Jesus?
o How healthy is your soul? Why?
o Where do you stand with Jesus?
Identify with the Rejected yet Honored Christ . . .
I. In Him, we are a Priesthood that Lives to Please Jesus! (4-8)
II. In Him, we are a New People Group that Exists to Proclaim Jesus’ Worth! (9-10)
III. In Him, we are Exiles who Desire God’s Glory even from our Enemies! (11-12)
Practical Implications
o What are some ways the world’s lens becomes yours? God’s?
o What are some ways you operate from worlds identity? God’s?
o Where are my fleshly desires sapping my soul’s life?
Jesus Secures us, So Faithfully Endure Hardships . . .(1:9-10; 4:5, 17-18)
I. Jesus Over All! (1:1, 9-10, 13; 2:8; 3:12, 15; 4:1, 8)
II. The Gospel Word is Central! (1:5, 8, 10, 12-13, 2:2, 8-10, 15, 25, 3:14-16; 4:2-3)
III. Suffering is Normal, God’s Resources are Sufficient for Perseverance! (1:6-8, 12, 15-16; 2:1, 3-5, 9-10; 3:1, 8-9, 10-13; 4:6-7, 10, 14-17, 18)
IV. Godliness and Godly Responses to Ungodliness! (1:13; 2:2, 14-19, 22-26; 3:1-9, 14-16; 4:2-5, 13)
Practical Implications
o How can you practically and consistently “Remember Jesus”?
o What are some good gospel reasons not to check out but endure?
o What are some problematic patterns of response you see in yourself?
God is God, So . . .
I. Guard the Precious Treasure of the Gospel and Your Influence on Others! (20a)
II. Avoid Irrelevant Distractions and Contrary Teachings! (20b)
III. Because Beliefs have Consequences in this Life and Eternity! (21)
Practical Implications
o What can you do to be faithful with the gospel that has been entrusted to you?
o How much does doctrine matter? Why?
o Do you tend to swerve more to conservative or liberal religious error?
We can be Faithful and Fruitful until the End By . . .
I. Committing to Personally Pursue Ongoing Progressive Sanctification! (11-12)
II. Being Held Accountable by People who Care and are Invested in you! (13-14a)
III. Treasuring Worship of God and Eagerly Awaiting the Return of Christ! (14b-16)
Practical Implications
o What desires and behaviors do you need to put off? Put on?
o Who in your circle encourages and challenges you spiritually?
o What truths lead your heart to worship?
What we Truly Believe Shows up in how we Live . . .
I. We live out Desires that are either Godly or Damaging to Us and Others! (3-5)
II. We live out Desires that Lead to Contentment or to Destructive Cravings for More! (6-10)
III. We live out Desires that Lead to Generosity of Life or Materialistic Orientation! (17-19)
Practical Implications
o How much does your faith shape your view of money?
o Where does money have an inordinate hold of your life?
o Describe a person with contentment and “generosity of life”.
What we Truly Believe Shows up in how we Live . . .
I. We live out Desires that are either Godly or Damaging to Us and Others! (3-5)
II. We live out Desires that Lead to Contentment or to Destructive Cravings for More! (14-15)
Practical Implications
o What areas of unbelief show up in life?
o What unhealthy desires pop up most in your life?
o What about your thoughts/words/actions show Jesus well? Show a different truth?
Multiply God’s Image in All of Life . . .
I. As a PREACHER: Speaking Truth to Bring Dead Things to Life!
II. As a FARMER: Cultivating Resources for Generational Flourishing!
III. As a FRIEND: Fully Knowing & Truly Loving God’s Good Creation!
IV. As an ARTIST: Enjoying the Work God Has Given Us to Accomplish!
Practical Application Questions
o Which part of reflecting God is the hardest for you (Preacher, Farmer, Friend, Artist)? Why?
o What kind of words are you speaking? How could you grow in speaking Good News rather than good advice?
o What kind of friend are you being? Do you have relationships where you are fully known?
o How can you step back & enjoy God’s work of progress in your life? Celebrate?
The Lord’s Supper is a Family Feast . . .
I. It is a Feast that is ALL About Jesus and His Gospel Work! (23-26)
II. It is a Feast for the Family of God to Unite in Love for Each Other and Christ! (17-22, 27-34)
Practical Implications
o In what ways do you struggle with the idea of being completely forgiven, purified?
o What 3 things most amaze you about the work of Jesus?
o What positive qualities would you use to describe relationships at church? Any broken or strained relationships?
Marriage Pictures a Relationship with Jesus . . .
I. Creation: Marriage Exists to Fill the Earth with Displays of God! (Gen 1:26-29)
II. Fall: Sin Mars the Image by Introducing Unfaithfulness! (Hosea 1-3 Selected)
III. Redemption: The Picture is Restored as Marriage shows off Christ and the Church! (Eph 5:22-33)
IV. New Creation: The Picture becomes Reality as we are Together with Jesus Forever! (Rev 19:6-9)
Practical Implications
o What areas of my relationships/marriage image God well? Poorly?
o What area of growth in your relationship/marriage does God want to focus on first?
o From Marriage Conference: Apply few of ways to love husband. Ask handful questions to wife.
We Pursue People in order to Proclaim Christ . . .
I. We Pursue People with God’s Power: The Holy Spirit! (6-8a)
II. We Pursue People with God’s Message in Word and Deed: Jesus! (8b)
III. We Pursue All People in All Places: Here to the Ends of the Earth! (8c)
Practical Implications
o How can you practically cultivate missional lens in everyday life?
o What are some common ways we dilute the message of Jesus? What is the gospel message?
o How have you applied 365/52/12 for 1-2?
The Gospel Gifts us Partners in Discipleship and Mission ...
I. We have Partners that Equip us for Ministry so we All Continue to Progress! (11-13)
II. We have Partners to Protect us and Speak the Gospel into every Corner of our Lives! (14-15)
III. We have Partners to Join our Gifts with in order to Expand and Mature our Family of Faith! (16)
Practical Implications
o What areas might God want to fill out in your life? Our church?
o What barriers do you have to partnering w/ others for growth, accountability and mission?
o 365, 52, 12, for 1: Who are you pursuing? How can groups partner with you?
Abiding in Jesus is the Key to Discipleship and Mission. . .
I. Intimacy and Dependence are Essential for Living out Everyday Mission! (1-5)
II. Engaging the Disciplines is Part of God Glorifying Impact on Ourselves and Others! (6-8)
III. Loving Obedience Maximizes Joy, it doesn’t Hinder it! (9-11)
Practical Implications
o What is the temperature of your relationship w/ the Lord right now?
o How are you engaging the spiritual disciplines?
o How can you and your groups cultivate a heart for God’s mission and the lost, practically?
Christmas is Good News . . .
I. That is About a Person! (1-12)
II. Which Evokes a Response! (13-20)
Practical Implications
o Practice meditating on 2:10-11- record what you find and talk it over with someone.
o Who can you share some of these truths with this Christmas?
o What would viewing life through the lens of worship change for you?
God’s Christmas Plan flows through/to Broken People . . .
I. The Era of Abraham: a saga of the Honorable, Scoundrels and Sinners. (1-6)
II. The Era of David: Hope fades as Kings fail, but pockets of Faithfulness remain. (7-11)
III. The Era after Exile: the Same Ole Same Ole until Jesus is Born. (12-17)
Practical Implications
o Where do you see cynicism, disillusionment creep into your heart?
o What are some of your biggest failures? How have you let them define you or God?
o How do worldly circumstances tempt you to fear or frustration? How does Christmas encourage you to hope?
Christmas Collides with our Experience of the Fall . . .
I. Darkness pervades the World, but Christmas brings Light! (1-2)
II. Life is Heavy, but Christmas brings Joyful Freedom! (3-5)
III. The World Entangles us in every way, but Christmas brings a New King and Kingdom! (6-7)
Practical Implications
o What are some ways you’ve experienced darkness of the fall?
o How does Christmas reorient you in face of sin/suffering?
o What about vv6-7 most encourage you? Why?
No Place Left from Romans 15:23 is the idea of seeing God’s glory spread to every people and place in a particular area, then moving on to another area where the gospel has not gone yet.
Honor Worthy Leaders . . .
I. Affirm Faithfulness in Leadership and an Ongoing Commitment to the Word! (17-18)
II. Be very Careful in Harming the Reputation or Making Accusations against Leaders. (19-21)
III. Be Slow and Deliberate in Raising Up New Leaders, we are Accountable for who we Commission! (22-25)
Practical Implications
o What qualities equal “leading well” to you? What about following well?
o What are some ways slander slips out in you conversations? How can you honor leaders?
o What are you cultivating in yourself and your service where you are?
Give Thanks for the Family Called the Church . . .
I. It is Proper to Give Joyful Thanks for the Work of God and the Relational Bonds in the Church! (3-7)
II. Growing Gratitude Motivates Growing Love and Sanctification to God’s Glory! (8-11)
Practical Implications:
o What is your thankful list of God’s work in past 5-10 years?
o Who are some of the special people God has put in your life and what makes them special?
o What areas of growth is God pushing on for you lately?
The Gospel Leads us to Tangibly Honor the Elderly . . .
I. Demonstrate your Faith by Honoring and Caring for your Aging Family Members! (3-8)
II. Delight to Repay the Kindness and Care of Godly Seniors! (9-10)
III. Help Each Other Walk through Loss and Heartbreak, so as to Avoid Pain’s Pitfalls! (11-16)
Practical Implications
o What area of deacon oversight could/should you try?
o How can you honor the seniors in your life/church? How can we as a church do this better?
o Where are you tempted to idleness and/or gossip? What boundaries might be helpful to fight this?
Follow God’s Path to Influence . . .
I. Cultivate Consistent Gospel Character and Trust God’s Word to do God’s Work! (11-13) (Oct. 29 Sermon)
II. Be Responsible to Use your Spiritual Gifts for the Good of God’s Family! (14-15)
III. Aim for Salvation, Restoration and Growth in you and those around you! (16)
IV. Honor the Age and Gender Relationships in your Engagement or Correction of Others! (5:1-2)
Practical Implications
o What are your spiritual gifts and what are you doing with them?
o How might thinking beyond yourself, to the people you influence, change some of the things you deem wise/unwise?
o What are some key principles you should use to interact w/ the different ages and genders?
The Gospel Transforms us to Pursue Godliness . . .
I. False Teaching has Evil Impact from an Evil Source and is delivered by Evil People! (1-5)
II. Sound Doctrine leads from Identity to the Hard Work of Progressive Sanctification! (6-10)
Practical Implications
o Should we take minor false teachings majorly serious? Why/Why not?
o How can we expose ourselves to gospel truth more? Place it in other believers lives more?
o Where can you see flesh efforts taking over grace efforts in growth process? How can we tell?
Leaders with Integrity are Essential for Church Health . . .
I. Deacons Oversee the Serving Ministries & Physical Needs of the Church! (Acts 6:1-7)
II. All Work Is Spiritual, Requiring Leaders to Walk with God in Integrity! (8-12)
III. Serve Well; Influence and Assurance Are the Reward ! (13)
Application Questions
o What Motivates Your Service? Recognition or Your Serving the Savior?
o What Areas of Character Do You Need to Cultivate? Next Step to Grow Here?
o What Areas of Serving Are You Gifted for/Passionate About? What Steps toward Service Can You Take?
Leaders with Integrity are Essential for Church Health . . .
I. Elders Oversee the Shepherding of People and the Purity of Doctrine! (1 Pet 5:1-4; Ac 28:17-31; Ti 1:5-9; Heb 13:7-9)
II. Desire to be Someone God can Elevate to Elder (or Deacon)! (1)
III. Value Character more than Competence in Qualifying for Leadership! (2-7)
Practical Implications
o How can/should you pray for and support leaders?
o What keeps you from faithfulness in serving the Lord somewhere?
o What qualities do you need to cultivate? Which ones first?
Let Your Way of Life in Community Display Christ Well . . .
I. Because we are God’s Family and the Guardians of Truth! (14-15)
II. Because we have Christ-Centered Good news of Grace-Based Godliness! (16)
Practical Implications
o How can your lifestyle affect the lost around you (+/-)?
o What difference should it make in your life that you are in God’s family? Others around us are part of same family?
o Why does it matter that we protect and proclaim the truth?
An Introduction to Biblical Manhood and Womanhood:
Male and Female He created them . . .
I. Men and Women are Equal Image Bearers! (Gen 1)
II. Men and Women are Given Distinct Roles in the Homeand Church! (Gen 2)
III. The Fall turns Partnership into a Power Struggle;but Redemption is Coming! (Gen 3)
IV. Women Cultivate a Love for your God Given Value and Role,not Cultural Expectations! (11-15)
Implications
A. What struggles or distortions do you see in yourself as it relates to biblical manhood/womanhood?
B. What are some consequences/effects of failed manhood/ womanhood in yourself, family, extended family? What redemptive effects could you see coming from a personal commitment to biblical manhood/womanhood?
Avoid Distractions to the Glory of Jesus and His Gospel . . .
I. Men Lead the Church to Praise/Prayer from a Heart of Holiness and a Desire for Peace! (8)
II. Women Prioritize Internal, not External Beauty! (9-10)
3 Principles:
1. Focus on the Glory of Christ, not Distract from it:
2. Prioritize Inner Beauty/Godliness more than Outer:
3. Express Love and Concern for Bro/Sis in Christ:
III. Women Cultivate a Love for your God Given Value and Role, not Cultural Expectations! (11-15)
Practical Implications
o Where do you see anger show up in your life/relationships?
o Which of the three principles are real temptations/struggles for you?
o What do you struggle to understand or believe about this passage?
Pray for and Pursue the Salvation of ALL People . . .
I. Ask for Circumstances and Lifestyles that Give the Gospel its Best Chance to be Heard! (1-2)
II. Because it Pleases the Lord and Aligns with His Will to Save People! (3-4)
III. Because God is Worthy and People have no other Hope! (5-7)
Practical Implications
o Who and where are you praying for regularly?
o What are some ideas on how you could serve, engage, eat with lost in your circles?
o How much do you care/think about salvation of all people?
Jesus Came to Save Sinners by Sheer Grace . . .
I. Jesus’ Grace leads to Praise b/c it Stretches all the Way to the Worst of Sinners! (12-17)
II. Jesus’ Grace Encourages and Warns us in our Fight of Faith! (18-20)
Practical Implications
o What is your honest heart view of “really” sinful people?
o When you think deeply about it, how does your salvation affect you?
o What are some reasons you would give for gospel truth being worth fighting for?
Fight for Gospel Truth . . .
I. We have an Authoritative Truth; there is no Need for Speculations! (3-4)
II. The Goal of Truth is Outward Love that Expresses an Inward Faith! (5-7)
III. The OT Law is Useful to Convict the Lost, but not as the Standard for Believers! (8-11)
Practical Implications
o Commit to believing this is God’s word, and it is right, true, and best!
o What evidence of growth in love for God and others do you see in your life?
o Where does a performance or legalism mentality show up in your life?
Guard the Purity of the Gospel Message Because . . . (1:3-5, 18-19; 3:9, 15; 6:20)
I. God Offers a Free Salvation to the World by the Sacrifice of His Son! (1:15-16; 2:4-6)
II. What we Truly Believe we will always Do! (1:8-11; 4:6-7, 16-17; 6:3)
III. False Teachings are an Ever-present Threat to the Church and Her Mission! (1:3, 6-7, 19-20; 4:1-2)
IV. It Limits Accusations against our Faith! (2:1-4; 3:7; 4:16; 5:7-8; 6:1, 14)
Practical Implications
o What parts of the Scripture are you tempted to doubt, minimize or ignore?
o What would growing faith look like in your life, relationships?
o What areas of your life have potential to negatively affect lost and immature?
Prioritize Everyday Disciple-making this Semester . . .
I. This Semester view your Life through Missionary Eyes! (18-19a)
II. This Semester Root your Identity in the Trinity and Invite Others to as Well! (19b)
III. This Semester Grow in not Just Knowledge, but also Obedience! (20)
Practical Implications
o Where would you say you are currently as a disciple of Jesus? Growth you’ve seen? Growth needed?
o What identity most tempts you from Christ to a different way of defining yourself? Specifically, How is Jesus’ identity better?
o How would you rate your application and obedience life? Why?
The Gospel Frees us to be Transparent with our Sin . . .
I. How can Sin be Dealt with? Confession that Cleanses not Denial! (5-10)
II. What is the Goal? Grace-Based Pursuit of Holiness not Performance-Based Relationship to God! (2:1-2)
III. So Come out of Hiding in your Relationships!
Practical Implications
o How do you deal w/ your own sin most often?
o How can cultivate a confession and repentance lifestyle?
o Complete handout on repentance.
The Gospel makes us free to grieve without despair because:
I. In Christ, we have a ____________ hope. (v. 3)
- Hope is not a___________.
- Hope is ________________.
- Hope comes from God and through the __________________.
II. In Christ, we have a sure _____________. (vv. 4-5)
- God ____________ your inheritance.
- God ____________ you.
III. In Christ, we have a ______________ in suffering. (vv. 6-7)
- Grief is _________________.
- Grief is _________________.
- Grief is _________________.
The Gospel Sets us Free from the Deadly Idols of The Heart…
I. Drifting to Our Idols leaves us Increasingly Empty, Dry and Fruitless! (5-6)
II. Actively Believing Jesus leads to Blessing, Stability and Fruitfulness even when Life is Hard! (7-8)
III. Trusting your Heart is Dangerous, but Trusting the Lord with your Heart is Freedom! (9-10)
Practical Implications
o What are the top few idols you identified? How do they show up in your life?
o What would a repentance plan look like for one idol you discover?
o Invite the Lord to search you, know you and reveal sin to you!
The Gospel Sets Us Free to Treasure Christ . . .
I. Jesus is a Treasure who gives us His Righteousness through a Living Union! (8c-9)
II. Jesus is a Treasure we get to Know and Experience in Relationship! (10-11)
Practical Implications
o What did you value most in your life prior to Jesus? What about now?
o What does it mean to you personally that you can rest in Jesus’ righteousness by faith vs. your own works?
o How much do you desire to experience more of Jesus? How are you pursuing that?
At this very moment, with all your baggage, talents, short-comings and promise, who are you in the eyes of the Lord?
The Father’s Heart Loves us as Sons . . .
I. The Father is For us not Against us! (Rom 8:31-33)
II. The Father Knows our Frailty, He doesn’t look for our Strength! (Ps 103:13-14)
III. The Father Gives what is Ultimately Good, not what we want to Live apart from Him! (Matt 7:9-11)
Practical Implications
o What is your view of the Father’s posture towards you?
o What are some ways strength and self-reliance show up in your life?
o Describe the Father’s true heart towards His people.
God's Fundamental Attribute Is Love . . .
I. Who Created to Multiply the Experience of His Love from Eternity Past!
II. Who Judges All Ungodliness out of a Love for Our Greatest Pleasure!
III. Who Redeems Sinners so We Can Experience the Fullness of His Love!
Practical Implications
o When was the last time you slowed down enough to enjoy the Creator b/c of His creation?
o In what ways are you treating God like a distant Grandfather? What in your heart is competing for your affections?
o In what ways are you treating God like a distracted Father? How are you trying to earn God’s love?
Grace Empowers our Transformation . . .
I. By Grace we were Saved ! (11, 14)
II. By Grace we Continually are Turning from Sin to God Pleasing Lives! (12)
III. By Grace we Await Jesus’ Return with Hope and Expectation ! (13, 15)
Practical Implications
o Identify what plays through your mind in failure, success, work? Speak gospel identity daily!
o What are the top few sin patterns that show up in your life? What would faithfulness and obedience look like where you are?
o What abiding, loving or serving is the gospel prompting you to today?
We have a Great Shepherd for Our Souls So, . . .
I. Reject Unworthy Leaders who Distort Scripture and Minimize Christ! (9-16, 18-19)
II. Pray that God may Equip us with all we Need to Do His Will and Live for His Glory! (20-25)
Practical Implications
o What are some of the default ways you are tempted to Minimize Christ in your life?
o What are some ways you want to please “self” most? What about ways seek to please God?
o What has God given you/done for you worthy of celebrating?
Be Careful about Who You Allow to Influence You . . .
I. Follow Worthy Leaders by Imitation and Submission! (7-8, 17)
II. Reject Unworthy Leaders who Distort Scripture and Minimize Christ! (9-16)
Practical Implications
o What evidence is in your life that money has an inordinate place in life/ thoughts?
o What are your strengths and challenges when it comes to following and submitting to leaders?
o How are you progressing along the growth, influence and leadership pathway?
Women who Fear the Lord are a Priceless Treasure . . .
I. Because they Display God’s Wisdom in Real Stuff of Life! (10-27)
II. Because they Invest their Lives in Blessing their Families and Communities! (28-31)
Practical Implications:
o How do you view work?
o What do you worry about? What can you do about your worry?
o What does faithfulness look where you are right now?
Endure by Staying Mindful of the Coming Kingdom . . .
I. It gives us a Warning about Rejecting God and His Word! (25-26)
II. It reminds us of Our Future Consolation and the World’s Future Condemnation! (27)
III. It challenges us to a Present Life of Gratitude and Worship! (28-29)
Practical Implications
o How have you responded to being confronted in past? How can honor God w/ response the next time?
o How have you responded to God/His word lately?
o What replaces a lifestyle of gratitude and worship for you?
Endure by Remembering we Enjoy a Better Covenant . . .
I. In the Old, God’s Holiness was Terrifying and Inaccessible to Sinful People! (18-21)
II. In the New, God’s Grace in Jesus Welcomes us to a Glorious Spiritual Reality! (22-24)
Practical Implications
o How do/can you represent God in the places of your life?
o What obstructs your sight of the spiritual reality?
o What can you list to invite a heart of worship/ celebration?
Community is Required for Endurance and Growth . . .
I. Straighten Up and Keep Running so Others can be Strengthened by your Faithfulness! (12-13)
II. Urgently Pursue Peace with Others and Holiness that Enhances your Fellowship with God! (14)
III. Watch Over others so they Live in Grace not Bitterness or Worldly Desires! (15-17)
Practical Implications
o What in your life is wearing you down?
o Where do you see something short of peace in your relationships?
o What signs do you see that worldly appetites are crowding out spiritual ones?
The Certainty of the Resurrection Requires us to Respond . . .
I. Truth 1: The Cross, Resurrection and Ascension were Necessary for our Forgiveness!
II. Truth 2: The Scriptures Illuminated by God are Necessary to Point us to Christ!
III. Responses: Faith, Missions, and Worship flow out of Genuine Saving Encounters w/ Jesus!
Practical Implications
o Have you repented and believed?
o What part can you play in God’s mission?
o How is your life in gathering and out affected by Jesus?
God’s Training Program Produces Endurance and Holiness . . .
I. Giving Ongoing Serious Thought to Jesus Keeps us from Wearing Out! (3-4)
II. Reframing our Perspective on Trials can Cement our Assurance of God’s Fatherly Love for us! (5-8)
III. Responding well to Trials Unlocks their Maximum Benefit in our Lives! (9-11)
Practical Implications
o What competes w/ Christ as the treasure of your life?
o What are some wrong views you have about God and yourself?
o How do you generally respond to challenges? How has that made it better? Worse?
Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God Is Worthy Because He Is the Only One Able . . .
I. To Reveal God’s Decrees as Reigning King! (1-5)
II. To Restore Humanity to God by His Redeeming Blood! (6-10)
III. To Receive the Praise of All Creation Reserved for God! (11-14)
Application Questions
o What is your view of Jesus?
o Has the blood of Jesus redeemed you? What has Jesus saved you FROM? What has He saved you FOR?
o What would your life’s goals, aims, and ambitions say about who or what you worship? Are they WORTHY of it?
o Who is getting your honor, glory, and praise that is rightfully due Jesus?
Run your God Given Race by Faith and with Endurance . . .
I. Don’t be Slowed Down by Dead Weight or Sin! (1)
II. Keep the Pace until the End by Fixing your Gaze on Jesus! (2)
Practical Implications
o What are some neutral things in your life that sidetrack your walk w/ Christ?
o What sin clusters might God want to work through with you now?
o How has shame affected your life, self, God?
o How can you more intentionally turn from other things and fix eyes and mind on Christ?
Faith Trusts that God can do the Unimaginable . . .
I. Like fight for us in the Face of Major Obstacles; so that we can Simply Walk Faithfully. (30)
II. Like Adopt as Children those who were Enemies; so we can now Put our Faith in Action! (31)
Practical Implications
o If you really believed this, how would you respond differently today?
o What are some things that take functional control of your heart?
o What are you letting define you that isn’t the Gospel?
Seeing Christ Uproots You from the Pull of the World . . .
I. Making You Defiant, So You Can Leave a Legacy of Faith! (23)
II. Reorienting Your Treasure, So You Choose God’s People over This World’s Comforts! (24-26)
III. Stirring Up Enduring Worship That Replaces Paralyzing Fear with Active Faith! (27)
Practical Implications
o Who has your allegiance?
o Who has your treasure?
o Who has your gaze?
Display your Faith by Continuing in the Face of Uncertainty …
I. Leaving the Comfortable and Known for the Unknown with God! (8-10)
II. Waiting with Persevering Fitful Faithfulness! (11-12)
III. Living as Strangers on Earth because we are Looking for a Better Home! (13-16)
Practical Implications
o How comfortable is your Christianity? Why?
o What would full faithfulness to Jesus look like right here/right now?
o What are some ways your life looks “at home” here? What about “foreign”?
By Faith we are Saved from the Coming Judgment . . .
I. We see the Extent of Depravity and the Beautiful Glory of God’s Grace! (4)
II. We see Widespread Warning but Precious Few Believe and Act! (5-6)
III. We see Universal Condemnation but God’s Security for those He Declares Righteous! (35-39)
IV. We see the Need for Ongoing Grace in our Worship and Weakness! (Gen 8:20ff; 9:18ff)
Practical Implications
o What evidence of grace do you see in the world around you? In your own life?
o What are some ways God warns us of spiritual dangers ahead? How do you generally respond?
o What are some ways you are putting your faith into action?
A Few Things to Devote Yourself to This Year...
I. Devote Yourself to Meaningful Time in the Word Daily!
- Four Keys
- Read
- Meditate
- Memorize
- Apply
II. Devote Yourself to Genuine Community!
III. Devote Yourself to Hospitality and Shared Meals!
IV. Devote Yourself to Meaningful Prayer Times in Private and in Groups!
Practical Implications
- What is your plan for more consistent time in Word/prayer?
- What are the next steps you need to take in community?
- How will you include hospitality/shared meals in 2023?
God’s Glory is Seen in Christ’s Birth as . . .
I. He Moves an Empire to Fulfill Thousands of Years of Prophecy! (1-7)
II. He Displays Himself most Clearly in Grace by Sending His Only Son! (8-14)
III. He Evokes a Response of Worship, Meditation and Mission! (15-20)
Practical Implications
o What are some ways/reasons you struggle to believe God’s power?
o How can you cultivate the practice of meditating on Jesus/the Word?
o Who are you going to intentionally pursue w/ the gospel this year? If no one, why not?
In All the Details of Christmas, Don’t Miss Who Jesus Is…
I. Jesus Is the Forever King from the Tribe of Judah Who Will Rule on the Throne of David!
II. Jesus Is the Promised Seed of Abraham, Whose Kindly Rule Will Bless All the Nations!
III. Jesus Is Emmanuel, the Virgin Born Son of God, Uniquely Qualified to Rescue the Nations!
Application Questions for the Christmas Season . . .
o What is the ultimate deliverance I am looking for in life? What would my life’s pursuits say that it is?
o What is my identity in Christ? How should that influence how I view my past, live my present, and aim for in the future?
o Who in my circle of influence needs to hear about the Hope of Christmas found in Jesus?
Praise God for Jesus’ Birth Because . . .
I. Jesus brings Salvation from our Truest Enemy and Ultimately All Enemies! (67-71)
II. Jesus Restores Our Original Purpose of Holiness, Intimacy and Service! (72-75)
III. Jesus Lights the Path to Living at Peace w/ God! (76-79)
Practical Implications, For the Christmas season . . .
o How can you cultivate more abiding in Christ and holiness in life?
o How can you tangibly serve people around you?
o How can you intentionally serve and share w/ people?
God’s heart for the nations is primarily bent toward grace…
I. Who would be perfectly just to judge our sins! (Joshua 6:15-17a)
II. Who delights to extend grace to the least deserving! (Joshua 6:17b)
III. Who uses the weak to write His story of redemption! (Joshua 6:24-25; Matt. 1)
Practical Implications
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Do the priorities of your life prove that you love your neighbors & the nations?
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How can you live a radically ordinary life to reach the nations?
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Is your life your best answer to the Great Commission?
Give Thanks for God’s Covenant Love . . .
I. Which Floods our Souls w/ Mercy! (1-5)
II. That leads Him to Work to Make things Right and Make Himself Known! (6-10)
III. Which Fills Him w/ Immeasurable Fatherly Compassion on our Frailty! (11-14)
IV. That Gives Eternal Promises to People w/ Brief Passing Lives. (15-22)
Practical Implications:
o What should a Christian response to unrighteousness and injustice be?
o How can you take the book past the head into the heart?
o What about your view of God is confronted by vs. 8?
Give Thanks for God’s Covenant Love . . .
I. Because He gives your Soul a Feast of Abundance! (1-5)
II. Because He is Merciful in Revealing Himself to us! (6-9)
Practical Implications
o Where are you searching for satisfaction?
o How can you develop a personalized bank for truth to speak to your soul?
o How can you foster consistent intentional conversations w/ your soul?
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1O55jBDFRklUcJ1sFffyRmCPsrN3hmkF5JpbBXGas5_c/edit?usp=sharing
Faith is Essential to a Life that Pleases God . . .
I. By it, We see the Sacrifice that Makes us Righteous! (4)
II. By it, We Walk in Relationship to God, while Knowing He is Working Ultimate Good! (5-6)
Questions to Consider
o What areas are your most prone to drift into self-centeredness?
o Looking at your actions, words and emotions; what do they point to as some of ruling desires of your heart?
o What internal and external changes would need to happen for you to walk more deeply with Christ?
You Can Have a Faith that Perseveres . . .
I. Faith’s Working Definition Inspires Courage and Hope! (1-2)
II. Faith’s Tangible Example Reveals God as Sovereign and Good! (3)
Practical Implications
o What are some ways you could expand you view beyond self and circumstances?
o What things most easily hijack your hope?
o How can you gain more silent exposure to creation?
Healthy Leaders are Essential for Healthy Disciple-Making Churches . . .
I. Elders Oversee the Spiritual Work of Serving the Word to God’s People! (1-7)
II. Deacons Lead the Spiritual Work of Serving the Tangible Needs of God’s People! (1-7)
Practical Implications
o What are some ways you are gifted? How are you stewarding your gifts for the church (formal & informal)?
o What tangible ways could you help your SS class or D-group become healthier?
o How can you help foster unity and purity in those around you?
God satisfies your soul . . .
I. When you’re in the desert and are thinking of returning to the slavery of sin! (Desert-Where)
II. By providing Spiritual water that tastes better and lasts longer than the pleasures of the world! (Rock-What)
III. By giving you access to His presence through the sacrifice of Jesus! (Staff-How)
Application Questions
o Are you satisfied in your soul? Why/Why not?
o What are some things you have looked for in this world that have not satisfied you? Why haven't they?
o What is preventing you from receiving the joy that God offers through Jesus?
The Lord’s Supper is a Celebratory Feast of Grace . . .
I. As Self-Centered People in a Sea of Self-Seeking we waste our Lives on Slop! (11-16)
II. The Generous Father welcomes Sons who will See and Celebrate His Grace! (17-32)
Practical Implications
o How do you view the Father?
o What has your journey to the far country then to Christ been like?
o What is stopping you from a posture of feasting on grace?
Lesson Doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BQjAscK0JSZpwAl7GPNeFJAPEsTkkgPfNMA6dlUl4p4/edit?usp=sharing
Gospel Warnings and Promises Spur us to Hold Fast . . .
I. Because Sin is Serious and its Consequences Painful! (26-31)
II. By Remembering God’s Glorious Promises that Sustained you in Past Hardships! (32-34)
III. So you can Endure with Present Faith and Future Hope vs. Go into Hiding! (35-39)
Practical Implications
o What has been your view of sin (in general and your own sin) as a Christian?
o What are some hard things God has brought you through in the past? How did you endure these?
o What would honoring the Lord look like in your life right now?
Jesus’ Sacrifice Opens Confident Access to God, So . . .
I. Draw near to God as One who Knows their Gospel Status! (19-22)
II. Don’t Check Out, but Hold Fast because God is Faithful to His Promises! (23)
III. Obsess over how to Provoke each other to Love and Service! (24-25)
Questions to Consider
o What heart and/or habit barriers are there to you consistently pursuing God?
o What spiritual disciplines do you want to see grow in your life? How will you adjust to facilitate this?
o What could you, your family or group do to provoke growth in others?
o Evaluate your life for faithful meeting w/ church/others; and faithful speaking words of encouragement and exhortation.
▪ What encourages you? What growth is God prodding you towards?
Session Notes:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1neyWrwkFVzhNr_rLurkBQeNKlCoDBNQXBiU2EgxaNos/edit?usp=sharing
Heat: Challenges of life
Dew: Blessings of life
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We tend to respond sinfully to both blessings and challenges.
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What fruit is my life growing? (Thoughts, words, actions, emotions)
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What does that fruit show is my functional identity? (In control, Alone, Sovereign, Lawmaker ...)
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What does that fruit/identity say I beleive God has done/not done? (Abandoned me, cast me off, distant, rejected, not ruled world, not done right)
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What does this say I believe about who God is in this circumstance? (Judge, Impotent, Unconcerned, Absentee Father, Not Good)
Root to Fruit:
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What is true about who God is relative to my false view? (Redeemer, Sovereign, Love, Present, Good, Involved)
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What is true about what God has done, especially in the Person of Christ? (Forgiven, Active FOR me, Adopted, Working out good, ...)
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Who am I in light of God's truth? (Loved Child, Accepted, Justified, Heir, ...)
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What should I do in light of who God is and who I am? (Fruit of Spirit, Love/Care for Others, Participate in life of body, Forgive as forgiven, Bear with as I am borne with by Jesus, be compassionate, speak words that build up...)
Treasure Christ for being our Sacrificial Mediator . . .
I. Jesus’ Sacrifice was Required because Sin Separated us from God! (15-22)
II. Jesus came first to Deal with our Sins; but He will Return to Render Judgment and Salvation! (23-28)
Practical Implications
o What would forgiveness and reconciliation look like in various relationships of your life?
o What areas do you struggle to receive forgiveness or areas need to ask forgiveness of God? Others?
o What change or encouragement does Jesus’ return press on you?
Session Notes in the Link Below:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1n9xOhi2d2zQJHGG9mFBZyu2w72riucTunFgKK5Hholw/edit?usp=sharing
Treasure Christ for His Sacrificial Atonement . . .
I. Without the Atonement our Conscience was Plagued and our Access Denied! (1-10)
II. The Atonement Cleansed our Conscience while Empowering God-Glorifying Service! (11-14)
Questions to Consider
o What are some ways you struggle with grace alone apart from your works?
o What are some ways your conscience still plagues you?
o How does Jesus’ work encourage fresh obedience and service?
Soul Talk Lesson 3: Listen Well to Others
I. Table Time- Introduction a. Share a BRIEF High and/or low from the week (Don’t have to have one to share). b. What gets in the way of you listening well to other people? What are some ways to adjust? c. What are some good questions you use to get to know/check on other people? Why do you think they are so helpful?
II. Teaching Time: (Gen 3:8-13; 1 Ki 19:9-18; Pr 18:13, 20:5; Gal 6:2; Rom 12:15; Lk 6:45; Ja 1:19) a. Some Major Problematic Thought Categories: i. 1. Fear/Worry; 2. Guilt/Shame; 3. Anger/ Irritation/Frustration; 4. Lust
b. God Often Draws out our Hearts by Questions (Adam, Elijah, Job, Jonah)! i. Questions Cause Reflection “What are you doing here?” ii. Questions that Reorient our Perspective “Where were you…?”
c. Love People Enough to Be Curious i. Look and Listen for Cues Something is Up: 1. Body Language, Facial Expressions (Don’t Overread) 2. Repeated Words or Themes: a. I was/am Guilty … Worried … Scared … Irritated: b. Jokes, Sarcastic Comments, Frequent Subjects: 3. Interactions w/ Those Close to Them 4. Words reveal the heart: Listen Long Enough and Ppl will Tell You 5. Not everything people carry is obvious: Love and Pursue Ppl 6. How they say it and what don’t say (avoid)
ii. Asking Good Questions . . . Then Asking More Good Questions 1. Posture of Love, Humility and Concern 2. Open Ended Questions: 3. General Questions that Allow them to Share what they think is Going on: 4. Specific Questions to Drill Down into Pressing Hurts or Sins: 5. Remember you are a Friend not an Interrogator
d. Barriers to Us Drawing Out the Deep Waters of Others Hearts: i. Stopping Long Enough to Sense Something is Up w/ Others! 1. Love and Relationship
ii. Hurting and Sinful People Can be Prickly and Self-Protective! 1. Certain Boldness Required to Pry into Layers 2. Talk without Saying Anything: Arms Length 3. Am I Humble and Receptive; Are my Friendships Inviting This?
iii. Be Quiet Long Enough to Listen to Others! 1. Two Ears and One Mouth Principle (Ja 1:19) 2. Listen, Don’t Wait to Speak (Pr 18:13) 3. Listen to What is Said … Not Said: 4. If we are honest we don’t listen to others very well.
iv. Accepting 1st Answer or Stopping with an Incomplete Answer
e. Three way conversations: God, You and Them- Stay Prayerful
f. A note of Caution: Sinner or Sufferer i. Am I dealing w/ a Sinner who is Suffering: Truth-> Grace ii. Am I dealing w/ a Sufferer who is Sinning: Grace-> Truth
g. Some Examples: i. You hear a friend make sarcastic joke about spouse, remember that’s the third one in as many hours; as you sit down for lunch you ask? ii. Sitting over coffee your friend talks about being worried about relationship (kids, spouse, roommate, friend); remember worry seems to come up each time you meet and about a variety of subjects, so you ask? iii. Having a fun night catching up w/ friends, your friend casually mentions feeling guilty about not doing more ministry. Later guilty comes up again not accepting new role invited to at church. Then for 3rd and 4th time guilty comes up w/ yet other areas. So you ask? [Pretend not legit guilt] iv. You hear about and see some instances where a friend or spouse gets sinfully angry (low level but hot). Ask to grab breakfast and you ask?
III. Table Time- Application a. Review the Examples above and discuss 3-5 questions/follow ups to understand more about what is going on with your friends?
b. What is your most common barrier to drawing out friend’s heart? How does that play out? (Maybe on list or maybe different one all together)
c. How could you see yourself practically and intentionally listening better to others?
i. What changes or practices would you implement?
d. APPLY: 1. Create 2 mor
Treasure Christ for His Better New Covenant of Grace ...
I. The Old Remained External and Lacked the Ability to Deal with our Sin Debt! (1-9 [6-9])
II. The New Empowers Heart-Level Obedience based on Relationship and Forgiveness! (10-13)
Questions to Consider
o What are the ways you generally try to outrun guilt?
o What keeps you from genuinely acknowledging or sharing your sin?
o What about full gracious forgiveness blesses you today?
Soul Talk
Session 2: Listening Well to My Soul & God
Table Time- Introduction
- Share your name and best part of your week.
- How does a persons thought life affect their actions, behaviors, feelings, etc.? Why?
- How aware do you think people are of their thought life? Why do you think that is?
Teaching Time: (Prov. 20:5, 2 Cor. 10:5, Lk. 6:45, Ps. 131)
- What is the goal of listening to my soul? (Prov. 20:5)
The Roots of your Worship determine the Fruits of your Behavior
- How do we listen to the heart?
Listen to your Thoughts (2 Cor. 10:5)
What are you constantly day-dreaming about?
Where does your mind go when it’s disengaged?
What reactive thoughts about people and circumstances do you have?
- Listen to your Words (Luke 6:45)
What are you repeatedly talking about?
What comes out of your mouth in a moment of frustration?
What slips out of your mouth that you regret?
- Our Thoughts & Words Expose our Wants & Worship
Security
Fulfillment
When should you listen to your thoughts & words?
- In the moment
- After the Moment
- The Lost Art of Contemplation & Journaling
- “Thoughts untangle themselves over lips and through pencil tips” - Dr. Howard Hendricks
- Barriers to Listening to the Heart
- Why should you listen to your heart?
- An unexamined heart eventually wreaks havoc on your life
- It leads to the real problem (worship) which leads to the real solution (a better worship)
- So you can love God with all your heart, mind, and strength (Matt. 22:37)
- Table Time- Application
- What are some frequent/recurring problematic thoughts that people have?
- What are some of the effects of these problematic thoughts in their life & relationships?
- What are some things that might really be going on in the heart that cause these problematic thoughts? What might these thoughts show what a person worships & wants (Purpose, Security, Fulfillment)?
- APPLY: At least one time this week stop and record any problematic recurring thoughts or feelings that you observe. Write some specifics. (Anger, insecurity, anxiety, fear, frustration, stress)
- How much was the same from last week?
- How much was different from last week?
- What themes/ patterns do you see? (Times, places, people, etc.)
Treasure Christ for His Better Priestly Ministry of Grace ...
I. The Old Priesthood & Law couldn’t Save us, so God Promised a Better One! (All)
II. Jesus the King-Priest offers a Better Hope than the Law by Granting Access to God! (11-19)
III. Jesus the Holy & Exalted Christ Completely Saves us and Continually Intercedes for us! (20-28)
Practical Implications
o What are some of your barriers to consistently approaching God?
o What are some recurring accusing thoughts that you have?
o How does complete access to God encourage you?
Soul Talk
Session 1: Introduction/The Heart of the Matter
I. Table Time- Introduction
a. Share your name and something you are looking forward to in the Fall/Study.
b. If you were to poll people in downtown S-boro, “Why do people do what they do?” What are some things you think they would say?
c. What are some internal recurring thoughts people may tend to have? (Think in realms of insecurity, anxious, angry, fearful, etc.)
II. Teaching Time:(Prov 20:5, Prov 4:23, Eph 4:17-20, James 1:26, Heb 4:12-16)
a. Why do we do what we do?
i. The World’s Attempts to Diagnose
ii. The Bible’s Clear Answer (Want and Worship)
- Principle of Inescapable Influence:
b. What is the heart? [James 4:1, Matt 15:18-20] TWO DIAGRAMS
iii. Observations:
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The heat of Trials/Pressure facilitate a response in us (just as the sun facilitates growth)
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Many times the experience of distress, anxiety, conflict, despair … is the fruit of responses (thoughts, behaviors, actions, etc.)
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The Worship and Wants of the heart are the core issues that shape our responses.
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If we want to change and help others change the heart must be the target.
c. We are Fallen so our Worship and Wants Go Real Bad Real Fast
i. Sinful Desires:
ii. Good Desires Gone Bad: Replace God as Treasure/Ruler of Hearts
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What am I willing to sin to get?
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What am I willing to respond sinfully over if I don’t get it?
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Generally only exposed by trials unless we are intentional!
d. There’s Good News for That kind of Problem
i. God who Deciphers my Heart (Jer 17:10)
ii. Word that Operates on my Heart (Heb 4:12)
iii. Redeemer that Forgives, Cleanses, Restores . . .
iv. Spirit that Empowers Us and Points to Better Glory of Christ (Jn 16:12-14)
e. Goal of the Study
i. Listen to Our Souls and Hear our Hearts
ii. Listen to What Others Say and Mean, to Draw Out their Heart
iii. Speak a Better Word of Gospel Worship and Wants
III. Table Time- Application
a. What are some of the ways you can tell something deeper is going on inside someone you care about? What are some ways to draw that out?
b. What are some obstacles we face in drawing out our own hearts and the hearts of others? Some of the advice have for surface level things we hear?
c. How might discerning and dealing w/ the heart level (vs. surface) change/impact your own life, life of friends around you? What excites and scares you about this?
d. APPLY: At least three times this week stop and record any problematic recurring thoughts or feelings that you observe. Write some specifics. (Anger, insecurity, anxiety, fear, frustration, stress)
Hold Tight to the Gospel When things are Hard...
I. Remembering Others who Waited and Endured before Ultimately Receiving the Promise! (13-15)
II. Remembering the Character of the God who Made the Promise! (16-18a)
III. Remembering we Have an Anchored Hope in Jesus that Offers Direct Access to God! (18-20)
Practical Implications
o What are a few examples of people in the Bible or your life who kept going when it was hard? How do they encourage you today?
o What are some misplaced hopes in your life?
o What about God and Jesus encourage you to greater hope?
Jesus Alone can Truly Satisfy the Human Heart . . .
I. True Satisfaction comes from Pursuing Spiritual Life Not Physical Desires! (25-34)
II. True Satisfaction is Offered to all who Come to Jesus in Faith! (35-41)
III. True Satisfaction is Found in Feasting on a Living Union with Jesus! (48-59, 66-69)
Practical Implications
o What are some misplaced things you are living for?
o What are some barriers to you repenting and coming to/coming back to Jesus?
o What specific qualities of Jesus can you feast on this week?
Grow in Faithfulness this Fall by . . .
I. Being Watchful while Surrounded by Subtle Dangers! (13a)
II. Holding Fast to God’s Word and a Life Pleasing to Him! (13b)
III. Being Strong and Courageous in an Emboldened Evil Age! (13c)
IV. Being Loving in all of our Interactions! (14)
Practical Implications
o What are a few dangerous influences and temptations you presently face?
o How can you cultivate a strong set of convictions to live by?
o What habits of grace do you need to grow in? How will you do it?
You are Loved so Walk in Love . . .
I. Reject the Symptoms of a Loveless Heart and Culture! (1-20)
II. Embrace the Habits of Living a Life of Love for God and Others! (1-20)
Practical Implications
o What loveless habits show up in your life and relationships most consistently?
o What loving demand could your relationships most use right now? Why?
o What changes in speech habits could most benefit your relationships?
I. Christians Will Experience Adversity and Abundance!
II. The Key to Facing Adversity and Abundance Is Being Content!
III. The Secret to Being Content Is Finding Strength in Christ!
IV. Strength in Christ Is Expressed by Giving:
a. Giving Thanks
b. Giving Sacrificially
c. Giving Glory to God
Practical Applications
o What specific circumstance of adversity or abundance is most affecting your emotions or decisions right now? Surrender it to Christ.
o Identify blessing in your life for which you need to be more thankful.
o How is God leading you to give sacrificially for His kingdom?
o Commit to making God’s glory the aim of your life rather than an aid to your life.
Make Much of Christ by Treasuring Him as . . .
I. The Creator and Sustainer of the World that All things Exist for! (15-17)
II. The Resurrected One who is Head of the Church and Reconciles us by His Blood! (18-20)
Practical Implications
o What are a few things in creation that amaze you?
o How do you view and treat the church?
o How can you practically see your sin and your forgiveness?
Biblical Preaching Leads to Conviction but Ends with Great Rejoicing. . .
I. Gather Together to Listen Attentively, Expecting to Hear the Word of the Lord! (1-3)
II. Humbly Position Yourselves under the Authority of the Word as It Is Explained by the Family of Faith! (4-8)
III. Mourn over Your Sin through Heartfelt Repentance, Then Rejoice Greatly at the Declaration of Good News! (9-12)
Practical Implications
o Have you become dull of hearing? What is one thing you can do this week to help the Word of God come alive again?
o In what ways does your commitment to and view of Sunday worship reveal that the Word of God is not the ultimate authority in your life?
o Are you tired of feeling guilty for your sin? What is holding you back from receiving the joy of the Lord?
A Pastor’s Prayer, That we Treasure Christ . . .
I. May the Holy Spirit Instill a New Value System for our Lives! (7-9)
II. May the Holy Spirit Birth in us a Desire to Know Christ Deeply by Experience! (10-11)
III. May the Holy Spirit Give us Resolve to Press on till our Final Reward! (12-16)
Practical Implications
o What are some earthly “gains” that still pull at you?
o What changes might help you better see/treasure Christ?
o What keeps you from pressing on?
Life in Christ Is Marked by Fellowship and Confession…
I. Foundational Truth: God Is Light Not Darkness! (5)
II. Implication 1: God’s Children Walk in Fellowship with Him and Each Other! (6-7)
III. Implication 2: God’s Children Are Honest about Their Sin and Need of Forgiveness! (8-10)
IV. Reconciling Truth: Christ Qualifies Us to Walk in the Light through His Advocacy and Atoning Sacrifice! (2:1-2)
Practical Applications
o Repent and Believe the Gospel for Salvation.
o How closely am I walking in fellowship with God & others? What’s holding me back from a deeper walk?
o How willing am I to confess my sins? What do I need to believe about the Gospel to help me be more transparent?
o Who can I partner with to help in the fight against sin and to point to love Jesus more?
Make Faithfulness to the Local Church a Priority . . .
I. The Church is a Bride, Body and Building who Loves Jesus and Unites to Each Other!
II. Prioritize a Church that Encourages you to Love and Serve!
III. Prioritize a Church that Equips you to Mature in your Faith!
Practical Implications
o Where on the priority scale of your life would you rank consistent faithfulness to your local church? Why?
o What hinders your consistent faithfulness to church?
o How invested are you in relationships, service, and maturity?
Cultivate Eyes for the Harvest by Modeling Jesus…
I. Look at the Lost: Get Close Enough to See Their Story! (35)
II. Look at Their Hope: Have Compassion When You See the Distressed & Disillusioned! (36)
III. Look at the Task: Pray & Go Because You See Jesus as Lord of the Harvest! (37-38)
Practical Implications
o Serve & Share with 2
o Do you have compassion or pity for lost people? Why?
o Who is God consistently putting in your path that may not be a genuine believer?
o How will you approach Evangelism Training: Avoid it? Study Academically? Apply it?
Partner with God to Continue Towards Maturity . . .
I. Continually Build on the Foundational Truths of the Gospel! (1-3)
II. Beware of the Cost of Perpetual Immaturity! (4-6)
III. Seek to Apply the Graces given to you so that you are Useful to the Lord and Others! (7-8)
IV. Serve others Diligently out of Love for God, while Imitating the Lives of Faithful Believers! (9-12)
Pillars of Assurance
o Internal Witness of the Spirit (Rom 8:15-17)
o Growing Light (Righteousness) and Love (1 John)
o Continual Fight Against Sin and Ongoing Repentance (Gal 5:16-17; 1 Jn 1:9)
Practical Implications
o What motivates your service?
o What interferes with your diligent following of Jesus?
o What qualities would need to grow for people to be able to imitate you?
Partner with God to Continue Towards Maturity . . .
I. Continually Build on the Foundational Truths of the Gospel! (1-3)
II. Beware of the Cost of Perpetual Immaturity! (4-6)
III. Seek to Apply the Graces given to you so that you are Useful to the Lord and Others! (7-8)
Practical Implications
o How has your spiritual life grown lately?
o How are you intentionally pursuing maturity?
o What are some ways your life has helped others grow? Others have helped you grow?
Mom’s Ministry is to Make Disciples . . .
I. Your Character is Always Essential to your Impact! (1, 3a)
II. Your Ministry Helps others Apply the Gospel to the Everyday Stuff of Life! (3b 5a)
III. Your Impact Helps Protect the Gospel from Slander! (5b)
Practical Implications
o What you do matters; keep it up!
o What specific areas is God calling you to cultivate in your life?
o What and who is God calling you to invest in the next generation?
Jesus is Qualified to be Our High Priest . . .
I. He was Appointed by God to be both King and Priest! (1-6)
II. He Made Acceptable Offerings to God as a Godly One! (7)
III. He Suffered to Open up the Fountain of Salvation for His People! (8-10)
Practical Implications
▪ How have you experienced Jesus as Savior? As Lord?
▪ In what ways do you struggle w/ acceptance? Lack of effort?
▪ What does the Supper help you remember about Jesus/salvation?
If the Resurrection Never Happened, Then . . .
I. We Proclaim an Empty and Deceptive Message; But the Message of the Cross is True & Powerful! (12-15)
II. Our Faith is Empty and Useless; But it is Full and Rooted in the True and Living Christ! (14-17a)
III. We are Still Dead in our Sins; But we are Alive and Forgiven! (17b)
IV. We have No Eternal Hope, only this Life; But Christ has been Raised as the First of Many! (19-20)
Practical Implications
o Believe in the Risen Christ!
o What tempts you to forget or to doubt?
o How do these truths increase your hope or perseverance?
You can Hold Fast in Hard Times . . .
I. God’s Word Pierces and Exposes us to the Gaze of God! (12-13)
II. Jesus Identified with Us to Open up God’s Gracious and Helpful Presence! (14-16)
Practical Implications
o How can you open yourself and respond to the Word more?
o How do you usually respond to conviction? Why?
o How can you more consistently and confidently approach God in prayer?
Our Eternal Gospel Rest Motivates Present Perseverance ...
I. Let us Fear for Each Other that Unbelief Might Keep us from God’s Rest! (1-5)
II. Let us Zealously Strive to Enter God’s Rest that is Still Available to us! (6-11)
III. Let us Carefully Engage the Word of God which Exposes the Recesses of our Hearts! (12-13)
Practical Implications
o What areas of your life or circumstances tempt you to unbelief?
o How can you more diligently turn salvation to application in your life?
o Who are you initiating with and investing in?
Past Examples Warn us to Watch Over Ourselves & Others…
I. It’s too easy for our Hearts to Harden by Sin’s Subtle Deceptions! (5-14)
II. Unbelief is always the Root of Disobedience and it Comes with Consequences! (15-19)
Practical Implications
o What areas of your life and relationships do you see callouses?
o How can you more carefully tend your heart?
o How can you encourage others to purity and faithfulness?
Jesus Gathers, Equips, and Sends Faithful Followers to Engage in His Kingdom’s Mission…
I. Pray Earnestly for God to Send Gospel Partners with You to Places He’s about to Show up! (1-2)
II. Go to the Harvest Urgently, Trusting God’s Provision over Self-Protection! (3-4)
III. Proclaim the Kingdom to People of Peace in Word, Deed, and Genuine Biblical Friendship! (5-12)
Practical Implications
o What is keeping you from praying earnestly that God would raise up laborers? (Heart)
o What is distracting you from getting to the mission? (Head)
o What is one practical step you need to take to be equipped to live missionally? (Hands)
Jesus Empowers us to Focus on & Hold Fast to Him . . .
I. As the Sent One, He Faithfully Speaks for God and Intercedes for Us! (1-2)
II. He is Worthy of Much More Glory as God’s Son than the Greatest of God’s Servants! (3-6a)
III. We are His, so Live w/ Hope-Filled Courage and Boasting in Jesus! (6b)
Practical Implications
o How can you focus your thoughts on Jesus?
o What is currently sapping your courage and strength?
o What 3 truths about Jesus encourage you most?
Jesus became Man to Identify w/ Us . . .
I. Humiliated and Exalted: He Died our Death so we Could Have His Life! (2:5-9)
II. The Only Way: It was Necessary for Him to Suffer to Adopt us into God’s Family! (10-13)
III. The Result: He became our High Priest who Defeated Satan and Helps us! (14-18)
Practical Implications
o How can you embrace suffering w/ hope?
o What can you add to your Jesus is Better list?
o Who can you invite into God’s Family?
Christ Calls Us to Persevere by Faith-filled Prayer…
I. Christ Desires His People to Persistently Pray and Not Lose Heart! (1-5)
II. Christ Promises His People Righteous Answers to Their Prayers! (6-7)
III. As Christ’s People, We Must Live by Faith, Confident of His Soon Return! (8)
Practical Applications
o Repent and Believe the Gospel for Salvation.
o Allow God’s Word to Remind You of His Goodness.
o Pray with Persistence and Confidence that God will Act.
o Remain Faithful and Witness to those who do not Believe.
Hold Fast to the Better Word found in Jesus . . .
I. The Better Word comes from God the Son and the Promised Messiah King! (1:4-14)
II. The Better Word Demands a Higher Devotion! (2:1-4)
Practical Implications
o How can you pay closer attention to the gospel word?
o How can you tangibly help others know and remember the gospel word?
o Who can you serve and share the gospel word with?
God Spoke and Revealed Himself . . .
I. In the Past, Over Hundreds of Years in Many Ways
by Many Prophets! (1)
II. In the Final Age through His Unique Son Who is
God, Savior and Sovereign! (2-4)
Practical Implications
o Where do you turn for forgiveness and restoration?
o How can you posture yourself for meaningful time in
the word daily?
o What can you add to your Jesus is Better list from this
past week?
o Prepare for the Supper!
Jesus is Better . . .
I. Jesus is Better than Anything we can Gain or Lose in this World! (1:4, 3:3, 4:8-9, 15-16, 7:15-16, 19, 22, 8:6-7, 9:11-14, 9:26b-28, 10:11-14)
II. So Don’t Turn Back or Drift from Him! (2:1-3a, 3:12-14, 10:19-25, 32-36, Ch 11)
III. Do Hold Fast and Press on to Maturity! (3:14, 4:11, 14, 5:12-14, 6:1, 10:19-25, 12:1-4)
Practical Implications
o What good, neutral or bad things in this world do you tend to hold tightly?
o What are 10 specific glorious things about Jesus you can list?
o What can you do to practically continue your growth toward maturity?
Press into the Ministry of Active Restoration of Others . . .
I. We are all Prone to Wander , so Let’s Continuously Look to Bring Each Other Back ! (19)
II. We all Hate Conflict, but the Messy Process of Restoration is Worth it! (20)
Practical Implications
o What areas of your life do you see a tendency to stray?
o How can you establish relationships that include pursuit?
o What keeps you from speaking or hearing?
Prayer is a Powerful Tool as We Face the Stuff of Life . . .
I. Process Life’s Struggles and Joys before the Lord! (13)
II. Meet Sickness and Sin with Faith-Filled Prayer in Community! (14-16a)
III. Remember Prayer is an Effective and Powerful Weapon given to All Believers! (16b-18)
Practical Implications
o How can you cultivate a consistent balanced prayer life?
o What hinders you from expectant, faith-filled prayers?
o How can you build the practice of confession into your community life?
Endure Faithfully by Remembering the Return of Christ . . .
I. Actively and Patiently Wait Because Deliverance and Reward are Near! (7-8)
II. Watch out for a Grumbling Spirit that Afflictions Tempt us Towards! (9-11)
III. Be So Consistently Honest that Your Word is Your Signature Bond! (12)
Practical Implications
o How can you abide in Jesus during Hardships?
o What tangible good or faithfulness can you do next?
o How can you give compassion, mercy or encouragement to someone?
Be Careful in your Views and Use of Wealth . . .
I. Danger 1: Selfish Hoarding! (1-3)
II. Danger 2: Defrauding and Cheating Others! (4)
III. Danger 3: Living in Self-Indulgence! (5-6)
IV. Principles on $:
-
Generous vs. Greedy
-
Save vs. Hoard
-
Enjoy vs. Indulge
-
Content vs. Consume
-
There is Dignity in Work/Earning
-
Many things Matter more than $
Practical Implications
o What dangers do you see for yourself in area of money?
o Discuss and develop money goals and a mutual budget.
Christmas Brought Long awaited Saving Hope . . .
I. God Ordains People and Circumstances to Increase our Saving Hope! (22-28)
II. Christmas Unveiled God’s Plan of a Global Saving Hope! (29-33)
III. Christmas Lies in the Shadow of the Cross that will Reveal the Hearts of All Mankind! (34-38)
Practical Implications
o Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ!
o What would increased faithfulness (devoutness) look like in your life?
o What part should you play in Jesus’ mission?
o How do you need to prepare for the Supper?
Jesus’ Birth Displays God’s Glory & Secures our Good . . .
I. It Fulfills Thousands of Years of Prophecy , but there was No Room for Him ! 1-7
II. It Brings Joy Filled Good News , which first came to Outcasts ! 8-14
III. It Compels Worship and Mission ! 15-20
Practical Implications
o Have you come to Jesus?
o How can you cultivate wonder in and increase meditation on the Incarnation?
o Who can your go and tell?
The Messiah’s Coming will Bring a Kingdom of Peace . . .
I. His Coming will Change our Darkness in to Light! (1-2)
II. His Coming will replace Oppression with Liberty and Joy! (3-5)
III. His Rule will be Marked by Unending Justice, Righteousness, and Peace! (6-7)
Practical Implications
o Have you believed in Jesus the Messiah?
o What are some reasons to rejoice in God?
o How can you extend the Kingdom here and now?
Why should we Sacrifice for God’s Mission . . .
I. We have a Gospel that Centerson Jesus Christ, the Crucified and Risen One! (1-4)
II. We have a Gospel that Invites Global Faithand Obedience! (5)
III. We have a Gospel that Forms us into a Worldwide FamilyLoved by God! (16-17)
Practical Implications
o Have you believed to point of obeying?
o To Whom should you Go?
o What should you give?
Pursue God’s Will in Your Future Plans...
I. Avoid Self Reliance as you Plan your FutureFuture! (13)
II. Recognize your Dependance on the Lord because Life is Short and Uncertain! (14-15)
III. Confess the Pride of Self-Determination while Actively Doing what you Know is Good! (16-17)
Practical Implications
o Have you considered eternity?
o How can you be more intentionally present?
o How can you more intentionally seek the Lord will?
Give Thanks Enthusiastically . . .
I. Do your Works and Worship with Gladness in the Lord of all the Earth! (1-2)
II. Acknowledge God and the Special Relationship you have to Him! (3-4)
III. Trust the Goodness and Eternal Faithfulness of God! (5)
Practical Implications
o Have you Acknowledged Jesus’ Salvation?
o What might worship through words and works look like for you?
o What do you have to be thankful for?
Grace Invites us to Walk the Path of Humble Repentance . . .
I. Humility accesses Grace Sufficient for our Disloyalty and Failure! (4-7)
II. Humility leads us Away from Sin and Towards Growing Connection to the Lord! (8-10)
III. Humility keeps us from the Sins of Slander and Gossip! (11-12)
Practical Implications
o In what ways are you embracing grace? Legalism?
o What sins and distractions do you need to turn from?
o How can you more intentionally seek God’s face and abide in Him?
Conflict Comes from Competing Desires . . .
I. Let your Desires drive You to Humble Faith not Selfish Fights! (1-3)
II. Realign your Desires to Express Absolute Loyaltyto God not Flirtation with the World! (4-5)
Practical Implications
o Identify Your Conflicts and Trace them to Your Desires:
o Identify and Repent of your Functional Idols:
o Identify and Repent of Worldliness that has Crept into Your Life:
Godly Wisdom is Shown by Righteous Results . . .
I. Wisdom is Tested by our Conduct and our Humility! (13)
II. Earthly Wisdom is Fueled by Selfishness and Results in All Types of Sin! (14-16)
III. Heavenly Wisdom is Pure and Results in Righteousnessand Peace! (17-18)
Practical Implications
o What does Consistent Faithfulness look like for you?
o What is the current fruit of your life saying?
o What do you want to see change in your relational and spiritual life?
Sunday Sermon, October 17, 2021, preached by Josiah McDaniel from Ephesians 2:1-10.
“From Death to New Life!”
Ephesians 2:1 10
God Graciously Saves Us from Death to New Life & New Works through Jesus Christ.
I. Apart from Christ, We Are Spiritually Dead under the Power of Satan and Our Sinful Desires! (vs.1-3)
II. But God Lovingly Raises Us to New Life through the Gracious Work of Jesus Christ! (vs. 4-9)
III. United in Christ, We Are Designed to Live in Good Works That Glorify God! (vs. 10)
Practical Implications
o Repent and Receive God’s Gracious Gift of Salvation
o Live in Your New Identity in Christ
o Display God’s Grace by Your New Life of Good Works
Only the Gospel can Tame the Power of the Tongue . . .
I. Growing Mastery of our Tongues shows Growing Maturityin our Lives! (1-2)
II. Our Tongues have Disproportionate Impact to their Size, and Usually it is Destructive! (3-8)
III. Integrity in our Tongues Blesses both God and Others! (9-12)
Practical Implications
o Take an Inventory of your Words:
o Evaluate your Words:
o Repent and Reform your Words:
Sunday Sermon, October 3, 2021 from James 2:14-26.
True Saving Faith Is Always a Working Faith...
- Make sure your Profession of Faith is Matched by a Life of Faithful Obedience! (14-17)
- Aim for a Faith that can be Seen and Proven by the Works it Produces! (18-19)
- Look at Biblical Examples of Working Faith, but not Works Based Righteousness! (20-26)
Practical Implications
- Have you placed Treasuring Faith in Jesus?
- How is your Faith Growing?
- How is your Faith Working?
Sunday Sermon, September 23, 2021 from James 2:8-13.
Partiality Violates the Law of Love . . .
I. Desire to Truly Live out the Commands of Jesus instead of Sinning through Partiality! (8-9)
II. Cling to the Gospel there is no Other Way to Escapeour Guilt as Lawbreakers! (10-11)
III. Live in a Way that You can Face the Coming Judgement Confident of Mercy! (12-13)
Practical Implications
o Believe in Jesus and Return to Jesus Continually:
o How are you doing at loving your neighbors?
o What changes are needed in your Speech and Life?
Saving Faith Is Incompatible with Partiality...
I. Partiality is Evaluating People Positively and Negatively based on External Factors! (1)
II. Partiality takes God’s Place as Judge then replaces it with Evil Motives! (2-4)
III. Partiality Contradicts God’s Attitude and Charactertowards People! (5-7)
Practical Implications
o What External are you prone to honor/dishonor people over?
o What steps are you taking to identify and fight partiality?
o How can you be part of the solution?
The Gospel leads us to Internalize and Obey God’s Word . . .
I. Remove the Obstacles to Receptivity of God’s Truth! (19-21)
II. Continue Past Learning to Action so You can be Blessed! (22-25)
III. Test the Genuineness of your Faith by what it Produces! (26-27)
Practical Implications
o What is your Spiritual Intake vs. Output?
o How controlled or uncontrolled are your words?
o Where is the world influencing or staining your soul?
Among competing options, where does good come from . . .
I. Is it from Circumstances or God’s Favor and Promises? (12)
II. Is it from Sin’s Deceitful Offer of Pleasure and Comfort? (13-15)
III. Is it from God’s all Generous and SavingHand? (16-18)
Practical Implications
o Where are you specifically prone to look for life outside of God?
o What areas of temptation most tempt you?
o What praiseworthy things can you list about God, Jesus and the Gospel?
The Gospel Compels us to not just Hear but Do the Word . . . (1:21; 2:1; 1:5, 17, 22-25; 2:8, 14-26; 3:13-18; 4:11)
I. Empowers us to Faithfully Endure Trials and Temptations! (1:2-18; 2:6-7; 5:7-20)
II. Empowers us to Reject all Forms of Partiality! (1:9-11; 2:1-13; 5:1-5; 5:1-6)
III. Empowers us to Tame the Untamable Destructive force of our Tongues! (3:1-12; 4:11-12, 13; 5:12, 19)
IV. Empowers us to Run After God and Away from the World! (1:22; 3:13-18; 4:1-12; 5:13-20)
Practical Implications
o Have you embraced the gospel?
o How well are you doing at doing?
o Where can you see the world’s grip in heart and life?
If you Don’t want to Waste your Semester (or Life), then Invest in Christ Centered Disciple Making . . .
Doctrine done Right Leads to Transformation . . .
I. Continually Hearing the Gospel Leads us to be Devotedto Good Works! (8)
II. Flee Irrelevant Controversies that are Unprofitable and Divisive! (9-15)
Practical Implications
o Have you Repented and Believed?
o What is the Message to Yourself & Your Community?
o What is worth your focused time and discussions?
Live w/ Dignifying Empathy for the Lost . . .
I. Remember Honor and Gentleness even when it is Not Deserved! (1-2)
II. Remember Past Blindness and be Humbled by it! (3)
III. Remember Pure Mercy from Jesus when we Didn’t Deserveit! (4-7)
Practical Implications
o How’s your empathy to others? Those different from you?
o How can you intentionally cultivate humility and compassion?
o How can you deepen your appreciation of the gospel?
Grasping Grace makes us Zealous for Godliness . . .
I. By Grace we Have Been Saved, and the World is Offered Salvation! (11)
II. By Grace we Hate Sin and Pursue Righteousnessas we Actively Wait for the Return of Jesus! (12-13)
III. By Grace we are Redeemed and Purified to be the People Treasured by Jesus! (14-15)
Practical Implications
o Have you Received the Gospel Invitation?
o Do you hate and fight your sin? How?
o Do you pursue positive godliness? How?
The Gospel is Adorned when Applied to Every Context . . .
I. Older People, live in Maturing Godliness and Investin the Next Generation! (1-3)
II. Younger People, learn to Live out the Gospel in EverydayStuff of Life! (4-8)
III. Workers, pursue Faithfulness in Attitude and Action to your Boss and Company! (9-10)
Practical Implications
o The Gospel Alone Saves/Changes:
o Where do you see Measurable Maturity and Investment?
o What does Ordinary Faithfulness look like where you Live?
Beware of False Teaching and False Living . . .
I. We Silence False and Empty Teaching to Protectthe People around Us! (10-11)
II. We Rebuke False Teaching and Living so that Restorationcan Happen! (12-14)
III. We Display the Genuineness of our Faith by our Gospel Good Works! (15-16)
Practical Implications
o Believe and Evidence the Gospel:
o Commit to Speaking Up:
o Pursue Growth in Gospel Living:
Follow Blameless Leaders towards Blamelessness . . .
I. Do they Love and Lead their Families in a way that Helps you Love and Lead yours? (5-6)
II. Do they have Personal Character that Encourages Growthin your own Character? (7-8)
III. Does their Devotion to the Word Challenge you to Conviction& Devotion to the Word? (9)
Practical Implications
o Charges to Micah/Anna
o Pursue a Deeper Intimacy w/ your Spouse/Family:
o Pursue a Growing Character from a Gospel Heart:
o Pursue a Conviction and Devotion to God’s Word:
Genuine Faith must Lead to Growing Godliness …
I. Check for the 3 Essentials: Saving Faith, Growing Knowledge, & Applied Godliness! (1)
II. Build on the Hope of Eternal Life Promised by God and Proclaimed by Faithful Teachers! (2-3)
III. Model Multiplying Discipleship based on the Parent/Child Relationship! (4)
Practical Implications
o Check for the 3 Essentials:
o Be Faithful as a Son, Peer or Parent:
Conflict until the Coming Age . . .
I. A Historical King as a Prototype for Coming Anti-Christ & His Abominations! (11:21-45)
II. Ongoing Tribulations as a Prototype for Coming Great Tribulation and Final Judgment!
III. A View and Framework for End Times Events!
o The Rapture of the Church (?; 1 Thess 4:16-17)
o Great Tribulation (Rev 6-18)
o The Return of Christ (Rev 19:9-18)
o The Millennial Kingdom (Rev 20:1-10)
o The Great White Throne (Rev 20:11-15)
o The Eternal State (Rev 21)
Practical Implications
o Be Ready:
o Be Faithful:
o Be Comforted:
o Be Bold:
Angelic Conflict Influences Human Events . . .
I. Encounters w/ God should Undo us!
II. There is Demonic Resistance to God’s Work in the Lives of His People!
III. The Conflict in the Spiritual and Earthly Realms will Continueuntil the End!
Practical Implications
o How do you need to expand or adjust your understanding of the Spiritual Realm?
o How can you incorporate fasting into your Spiritual habits?
o How can you remind yourself of your God defined Identity?
Pray that God will Restore the Ruins around You . . .
I. Meditation and Adoration Create a Heart Posturefor Genuine Prayer! (1-4)
II. All Encompassing Heartfelt Repentance opens us to God’s Lavish Mercy! (5-15)
III. Prepared Hearts pour out Requests for Redemption’s Full Effect! (16-19)
Practical Implications
o Survey Your Life:
o Open the Book and Gaze at God:
o Set Aside some Time to Confess:
(Dan 11:36-37, 12:1-3;Rev 13/17/19/20; Mrk 14:61-64; Ps 2:6-9)
God will Gloriously Triumph at the End of the Age . . .
I. The Anti-Christ will be Worshipped by All People, except God’s People who he will Oppress!
II. God will Judge Anti-Christ and His Followers before Instituting His Eternal Kingdom at the Return of Christ!
Practical Implications
o How is your worship focused and flourishing?
o What can you do to Increase your Endurance?
o Are you Abounding in the Work of Jesus?
o Is your name in Jesus’ Book; Are you Inviting Others to Come?
(Dan 11:36-37, 12:1-3; 2 Thess 3:3-12; Rev 13:1-14, 19:20, 20:11-15)
God will Gloriously Triumph at the End of the Age . . .
I. History is the Context for the End of History!
II. The Anti-Christ will Boast and Blaspheme!
III. God, unphased, will Judge the Anti-Christ and all his Followers, while the Saints enter Eternal Life!
Practical Implications
o Is your Name in Jesus’s Book?
o How does God’s Good Ending help your Hard Times?
o How Shall we Then Live?
Finish Faithfully for the Glory of God . . .
I. Intimacy w/ God should Lead to Integrity and Impact at Work!
II. Godliness and Excellence may well put a Target on your Back!
III. Strong Private Faith is Required to stand in the Face of Public Pressure and Temptation!
IV. Long Term Faithfulness will be Noticed and Make a God Glorifying Difference!
Practical Implications
o Apply your faith by Working w/ Excellence and Integrity:
o Cultivate a Private Life that can Stand up in Public:
o Aim for Impact till the End:
Our Idols are Most Powerless when we Need them Most . . .
I. Misplaced Worship Leads to Foolish and Destructive Choices!
II. Idols Can’t Answer when Answers are Most Needed!
III. God’s Spirit and Our Faithfulness can Distinguish us in our Work!
IV. Pride and Idolatry Destroy; While Faith and Humility Lift Up!
V. Every Life will be Judged . . . But by What Measure?
Practical Implications
o What hijacks your heart most often?
o How might God show Himself through your work?
o What keeps you from seeking and following wise counsel?
o Where do you see pride show up in your heart, life or relationships?
God is Sovereign Over All, All we Have is Given By Him . . .
I. A Praise Testimony is the Proper Response to God’s Work in Our Lives!
II. Neutral is a Dangerous Place to be Spiritually!
III. God uses Pagan Regiemes to give Stability, Security and Provision to the World!
IV. God’s People must Faithfully Serve w/ Distinction in Pagan Places!
V. God Humbles the Proud!
VI. Our Greatness for who’s Glory?
Practical Implications
o What signs point to neutral in your Spiritual Life?
o What has God done you Need to Acknowledge and Celebrate?
o Where do you see the pursuit of your glory? Of God’s?
Our Lives are Determined by the Direction of Our Worship …
I. The World is Constantly Inviting us to Idolatrous Worship!
II. What Makes us Distinct Often Makes us Hated!
III. God Can, Does but Doesn’t Always Deliver from Anything we Face (Faith & Humble Acceptance)!
IV. God’s Glory Often can be Vindicated and Seen through our Trials!
Practical Implications
o What hijacks your worship most often?
o Where must we be Winsomely Distinct?
o Why is Jesus Worth It?
God's Forever Kingdom IS Coming...
I. The Kingdoms of this World are All Temporal!
II. God Gives Rulers their Scope, Glory and Authority!
III. God’s Kingdom will Triumph and Last Forever!
IV. God’s Active Involvement in our Lives can Lead to Increased Influence for His Glory!
Practical Implications
o Have you met this Saving King?
o What makes you long for the Kingdom to come?
o What kingdom has your heart and striving?
What Difference Does it Make if God is Real . . .
I. Hopeless: Our Abilities and Resources have Major Limitations! (1-11)
II. Confidence: God Hears and Acts! (12-23)
III. Hope: God is Involved Now and Holds the Future! (24-30)
Practical Implications
o Develop Your Abilities but Depend on God:
o Pray About Real Stuff of Life w/ Faith:
o Know God is with you and for you:
God Can be Trusted so Commit to Distinctiveness . . .
I. Draw the Right Lines at the Right Times! (8)
II. Be Willing to Stand in Places where Only God can UpholdYou! (9-16)
III. Do Your Best while Fully Relying on God’s Favor! (17-21)
Practical Implications
o Make your Commitments Now:
o Watch Your Lines:
o Believe and Act:
How to De-Christianize People, and What to Do about It …
I. Remove the Cultural Symbols that Attach to Christianity; But we Cling to a Better Hope! (1-2)
II. Immerse Us in a Secular Culture & Worldview; But we Saturate in the Word! (3-5)
III. Strip Out Our Basic Identity; But we Root Our Identityin Christ! (6-7)
Practical Implications
o Be Defined by Jesus:
o Watch Your Intake & Take a Break:
o Invest Jesus into Someone:
***NOTE: Silent from 13:40-31:40 mark.
Be Hopeful, God is Sovereign and Working out His eternal plans despite appearances and opposition . . .
I. God is Good and is Sovereign over Individuals, Empires and History! (1:2; 2:19-21; 4:24-25; 5:18)
II. God is Able to Care for, Protect and Sustain His Own! (1:9, 17-21; 2:12-16; 3:16-18, 26-28; 6:19-28)
III. We are Empowered to Be Faithful no Matter the Circumstances or Opposition we Face! (1:8; 3:8-12; 4:27; 5:22-23; 6:5, 10)
IV. God’s Forever Kingdom is Coming and will be Triumphant! (2:44-45; 4:1-3, 34-35; 7:9-14; 12:1-4)
Practical Implications - 3 Questions
o Do we embrace and submit to God’s good Sovereignty?
o Have I purposed in my heart to be Faithful and Pure?
o Am I committed to raising disciples and kids who can stand?
Walk the Entire Path of Genuine Repentance . . .
I. Acknowledge the Depths of Sin; and Plead for Mercy & Cleansing! (1-5)
II. Seek a Renewal of Gospel Joy and a Changed/ Committed Heart! (6-12)
III. Pursue Restoration of Relationships, Ministry to Others and Worship of God! (13-17)
Practical Implications
o Mourn over Sin (Yours and Others):
o Fight Against Sin and For Holiness:
o Pursue Reconciliation w/ Others:
Jesus Appears to His Disciples and Commissions Them to Go into the World Carrying His Message...
A Saving Encounter with Jesus Produces Transformation Evidenced by Genuine Repentance and Faith…
Christ is the Supreme & Worthy Treasure even if it means Accusation and Affliction . . .