Awaken Messages: Recent Episodes
Awaken NM Church
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We must believe that Jesus says He is who He says He is and believe that He's going to do what He says He's going to do. The Bible is filled with his promises. One of His promises is that He is going to return to take us home. Are you ready for that day? Have you lived your life preparing others for that day too? Where can you make room for Jesus in your life to restore your faith?
Many people put Jesus into a "box" according to what they perceive from their life experiences. When it comes to Jesus being loving, some think Jesus is only loving. When it comes to Jesus being forgiving, some think Jesus is only forgiving. It may be hard to think of Jesus as a God who judges, but that's one of His many attributes. He judges boldly and righteously. If Jesus were to look at your life and the fruit you should be producing, what will He see?
We are to be stewards or managers of the gospel. What do you prioritize when it comes to your faith? Do you exist for the praise of man or to be a good and faithful steward of what God has entrusted you with?
We as believers are permitted to boast, but for the right reasons. Boast for the sake of Christ and all He has done in your life. Boast about your testimony (the story of all Christ has done in your life) and give God the glory. In the end, the cross is what truly sets us free. We can run to people, relationships, items, feelings, drugs, alcohol, and many other things. God sent his son Jesus to free us from our foolishness and gave us a way to live with Him for all of eternity! Find a place of surrender so you can be set free.
1 Corinthians helps us understand that we as a church should not be divided. It's important to be in agreement in what we say, understand, and feel convicted about. What are we making about us instead of about Him? Are we truly following Him? What does that look like in your life and community?
Becoming a Christian never guaranties an easier life. It brings new difficulties. The only difference is we are walking with Jesus Christ who conquered death and overcame the world. He can help us overcome everything we face. Does your life honor God and what the Word of God says? The road is wide, but the gate is narrow. In other words, living righteous requires full dependency on Jesus over what the world tells us. Let Jesus guide your life in this crazy world because he cares for you!
We are called to love others. What does this look like though? Jesus shows us that we are to put ourselves aside and put others first. People come and go, but while they're in our lives how do we treat them? Do we show them Christ's love in how we treat them and speak to them? Jesus equips us with all we need to love others. He also helps us work up the courage to let others love us back after experiencing pain from another. Let the love of Jesus transform you today.
Whatever we're struggling with, God's grace covers all! First, we must surrender to Jesus Christ. His grace abounds not because of our own deeds, accomplishments, or works. His grace abounds because of who He is and how much He loves us. So stand on the foundational truth that Jesus came to give you a second chance. What does the gospel truly mean to you? Is it just a story or is it the foundation on which you stand?
Jesus is the hope and joy of the world. Have you accepted the Savior into your heart? What is stopping you today? Let Jesus help clear out those distractions that are keeping you from living a life full of purpose.
The population of New Mexico is primarily Catholic. We take a look at the history of the Catholic church, its beliefs, and where it is today. Still, it's important to take a good look at our own lives and see what we are putting ahead of Jesus. What are we making our salvation?
Melissa Dougherty joins us this week to share her testimony about her experience with New Age & Progressive Christianity.
Our enemy seeks to discourage us. His goal is to leave us paralyzed. What are you discouraged over? Come and see how discouragement is an effective weapon the enemy uses against us. See how you can overcome the strong emotion of discouragement with God's word.
Today we will look at Gods plan and purpose for marriage and some of the most common problems we face in the most important relationship we have apart from our relationship with Christ.
Well, the women are up now...and it's not a moment to let our hair down, but rather to put it up and get to work in digging into what biblical womanhood is, how it functions, and how God lined it all up!
God designed men with a very important purpose. These are no small tasks, but they are completely possible. Jesus shows us what this looks like in his words and actions. He is the ultimate example. We cannot be Jesus, but when we submit to Jesus we grow and humble ourselves before Him. He transforms us to be more like Him.
Everyone wants to be invited to weddings...they're fun, you get to see people you have not seen in a while, and you get to eat, party and dance. But remember, the whole point of the wedding is watching 2 become 1 - to watch God's beautiful design happen right before your eyes. In this sermon, Matt examines how being invited to this wedding has nothing to do with us, and everything to do with God's grace, truth, and design for our lives
Does shame rule your life or does the Savior. He has much more to say than what the Accuser does. Who will you listen to and then who will you tell about God's divine grace and truth in your life?
We will face many trials, persecution, and pain. The good news is that Jesus is with us through those trials and tribulations. The treasures that we inherit are not on this earth, but are in heaven. Our struggles are not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world. Our struggle is against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Jesus prays for us as we navigate life. He lifts us up to God the Father for protection because He knows what trials we will face in life when we surrender our lives to Him. Take heart in knowing that Jesus intercedes on our behalf through prayer! Jesus Christ who died for us commits us who believe to the Father for safekeeping! Let your security rest upon the Father's faithfulness to His Son, Jesus. You are loved.
True freedom is not absolute do whatever you want, that's chaos, but following Christ brings a freedom that the world cant compare with. A true relationship is marked by characteristics. What Christ offers is a new way of life, and SAYING you're a believer is definitely not the same as BEING a believer.
The purpose of Jeremiah was to declare God's judgement upon His people and call them to repentance and spiritual restoration through the Gospel. This passage shows us how we have a part in our relationship with God. Does your heart belong to God or something in the world? We must not be afraid to follow Jesus for He never has and never will go back on His promises.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Contentment happens in community. Do you find yourself surrounded by others who push and encourage you to be content? Paul writes a letter to the church while he is in prison and encourages them to be content. Don't be afraid or discouraged when someone in your godly community comes to you and corrects you in a godly manner. It is meant to build us up, push us toward growth, and thrive in the life that God has given us.
Are you allowing discontentment to keep you from growing? Reflect on what your community is pushing you towards. Are they pushing you to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable? If so, think about such things and allow God to change the direction of your heart so you may be content in life in all circumstances.
Every single Christian is called to live on mission - that mission is simply put - Love God, Love People and Make Disciples. This is a daunting task by ourselves, but the beauty is that God has seen the future, holds us close, and has promised to walk with us no matter what.
Psalm 139 is the ultimate love letter to us as God's children. He knows our inmost being. He created us for a purpose. Every day His thoughts of us outnumber the grains of sand. He knows us intimately and wants us to know Him! Jesus came to the earth so we may be with God for all eternity!
"You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it." Psalm 139: 5-6
How many times do we get caught up in what other people are doing, receiving, or accomplishing in their lives, and wonder when and if we are ever going to catch a break? Christianity is about the long game, and not the short game.
"God certainly is good to Israel, To those who are pure in heart! But as for me, my feet came close to stumbling, my steps had almost slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant as I saw the prosperity of the wicked." Psalm 73: 1-3
God's creation reflects his handiwork and knowledge. It's reflected in the world around us from the fields of flowers to the rolling thunder. God's law reminds us how we are to live. It's perfect in every way. We have tendency to "water down" and "dilute" God's word so that it fits our agenda. However, God's law revives us when we study it and live it out in our every day lives. God's love is gifted to us through His law so that we can live a life full of freedom in his Spirit!
"The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb." Psalm 19:7-11
Psalm 91 is a great chapter in the Bible for every stage in life. Re-focus on the Lord, his law, and be centered in His word. When we are in the law of the Lord, we have freedom. When we walk in our own ways we only hurt ourselves. The Psalmists knew what it was like to live in the world and experience the peace of God when their hearts were directed toward the Lord. Jesus gave us such an amazing peace and confidence when he died on the cross for us. He took our place and gave us hope for all eternity!
"But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night." Psalm 91:2
To be devoted to one another is to give all or a large part of one's time or resources while being loving or loyal. Choose to devote daily time with the Lord, pursue others relationally in brotherly love, council biblically, live authentically, admonish faithfully, and engage with a mission. Jesus shows us how to be devoted to God and then to one another. He gives us the perfect example!
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality." Romans 12:9-13
Put simply, we cannot live a prosperous life if we hold our sins and transgressions inside. We need Jesus to show us where we've done wrong and trust that he is above the fear, embarrassment, and shame. We must acknowledge the hurt that took place to the person we harmed, and then communicate an action plan as to how you will rebuild the trust so that reconciliation can take place. Like Jesus, do you have a community that you do life with? Do you have others you can confess to so you can receive help while remembering that Jesus is the only one who can forgive your sins? Confession is bringing sin to light so it can no longer have a hold over you and others. It brings freedom and joy so we can live our best life for Christ who lived His best, and suffered the worst for us!
"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." Proverbs 28:13
Like love, forgiveness is not a feeling. We must make the choice every day to forgive. Perhaps you've heard the phrase "forgive and forget." It's hard to forget when something reminds us of an injustice, and we feel anger all over again after we thought we've forgiven. Some injustices go deeper than others. This is why forgiveness isn't always a one and done event. Even though we feel like we can't forgive or don't want to forgive- we must surrender it to the Lord despite what we're feeling in those moments. He is faithful and will help us through the process of forgiveness when we choose it. It's for our freedom. It releases us from the bondage of anger, frustration, and resentment. Jesus gave us His example of forgiveness on the cross. It was the ultimate sacrifice so we might forgive others too.
"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Just because we might be recognized as a leader, it doesn't mean we're in charge. When we hear the word "leader" we might think of someone who gives orders or instructions, but leading is so much more! Leading is all about serving others and showing up. It's leading by example. It's doing the dirty work you're asking others to do as well. It's counterintuitive and costly. Jesus came to the earth not to rule over others, but to serve others and teach them with patience. Are we allowing Jesus to mold us into an honorable leader?
"But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." Mark 10: 43-45
If love is not feeling based then what does love actually look like? Jesus gave us the example of what love is when He came to earth and laid His life down for us. What does this mean for us though? Love is sacrificial. It's from God because God is love. Have we allowed God to fill us so we can fill others? Jesus taught us how to treat one another when he set his own desires and selfish actions aside to put others ahead of Him. What attitudes and behaviors do we need to ask God to help us overcome so we can love like Jesus?
"This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." 1 John 4: 10-11
What does it look like to take up our crosses and follow Jesus? In the story of the rich, young, man we see that he's looking for ways he can earn eternal life. On top of that, he held tighter to his possessions than he did to Jesus. How many times do we do the same thing? Jesus took away the punishment that we deserved. He was the ultimate sacrifice when he was crucified on the cross and then rose again! Our possessions, status, position, or good works cannot give us eternal life. Jesus is the only way, the truth, and the life. This is something the rich, young, man learned through the conversation he had with Jesus himself. We have the same opportunity to live with Christ eternally because of what happened on the cross!
"Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could not be freed through the Law of Moses Acts." Acts 13:38-39
This church has been deemed as highly "dangerous." It has been found that members and participants of this congregation live out the teachings of the Bible, make no apologies for it, and have pledged themselves to follow the leader- Jesus Christ.
Awaken held a "secret service" to try and give people an example of what it's like to have to meet quietly as a persecuted church. Many Christians face persecution all around the world because of their faith. They face being arrested, punishment for sharing the gospel, gathering together, being in possession of a Bible or simply proclaiming their faith in Christ. No matter what the circumstances, we are to be the light! Our home is eternal. Who are we taking with us?
Elijah sees God's power in the face of persecution. In 1 Kings, we learn about King Ahab and how he ruled with more wickedness and evil than any Israelite King before him. Elijah boldly steps out and speaks in faith. This results in God's power being displayed in Mighty ways! Elijah's response to persecution varied greatly. Yet, God still displayed His power and might giving the Israelites another chance to see that He was the God who loves them. You see, God fights for us. He takes the time to prove His Might not because He wants attention and fame. He is a jealous, loving, God who wants relationship with us. He fights for us and shows us His great love so that we may decide to be in relationship with Him. He will never force us. In Elijah's situation, He constantly shows up to prove to His people that He is God. He does the same for us! He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow! It doesn't matter what we face in life, He will provide everything we need in any situation if we let Him.
"Thus says the LORD who made the earth, the LORD is His name, 'Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.'" Jeremiah 33:2-3
Do we have to be perfect for God to use us in order to advance his kingdom? Absolutely not! Throughout the Bible we see how many people struggled with their sin, shortcomings, and upbringings. Saul persecuted Jesus prior to his conversion. He was focused on his mission to imprison Christians. He had a drive to accomplish his mission, even if at the time it was the wrong one! However, God used his abilities to accomplish more than Paul could have ever imagined! Saul went by his Roman name, Paul, after his intense encounter with God. He was changed and lived out God's will for his life. He made a huge impact in the world we see today. Paul ended up writing much of the New Testament which applies to how we can live our own lives!
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17
This week we take a look at the 2 different responses to truth. John the Baptist was here on a divine mission. His mission was to prepare the way for the Savior of the world, Jesus! He proclaimed the truth of the gospel and instructed many to repent of their sins. We have a choice to make in response to God's truth in our own lives as well. Will we allow it to harden our hearts or will we allow it to lead us on the path to repentance? John was direct in the message of truth which led to his persecution. Anyone who desires to live a godly life will be persecuted. Though repentance is a process, does it show in your life? We must know what the Word of God says and stand for the truth within it. Are you allowing the Word of God to transform you?
"In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:12-17
The early church found themselves scattered throughout Samaria and Judea because of the persecution that broke out after the killing of Stephen. Persecution is the infliction of suffering, injury, or death on another especially because of race, political, or religious beliefs. These believers took the Gospel into the world wherever they went regardless of what was happening around them. Here, we also get an introduction to Saul (who would later become Paul). He took charge to accomplish the imprisonment of many believers at this time and had a fiery passion. He was focused and ran toward his mission. Through all of this suffering, we see that God can take something absolutely heart breaking and make it into something amazing for the saving of many lives eternally! The news continued to spread about Jesus throughout the land! These believers persisted even in the midst of scattering for fear of their lives. How are we preparing for events like this? Are we training for times of persecution or are we allowing ourselves to be comfortable? Wisdom and knowledge come from God. Let's ask Jesus today to help us understand this wisdom and knowledge before we get into scriptures so we may stand strong and keep our eyes upon the Lord when the day of persecution comes! May we be filled, focused, and forced to keep going in our faith.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
Stephen who was full of God's grace and power finds himself before the high council. He's prepared to give a full account of God's works over each generation. He boldly calls these priests out who also know scripture, but missed Jesus. They were too distracted with their power, status, and what people would think of them. Who do you identify with in this scenario? Are you more concerned with the approval of men or Jesus? Do you read scripture to look good or do you read it to know who Jesus is?
"This is what the Lord says: 'Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool for My feet. Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest? For My hand made all these things, So all these things came into being,' declares the Lord. 'But I will look to this one, At one who is humble and contrite in spirit, and who trembles at my word.'" Isaiah 66:1-2
In Acts 6 we see the first complaint recorded in the church. The Hellenistic Jews complained that their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. The twelve gathered the congregation of disciples and put a plan in place to select some men of good reputation to take charge of this task. These men were to have the Spirit and wisdom within them. They were to uphold this task utilizing knowledge, experience, common sense, and insight. Every position in the church is important for the overall function and effectiveness to expand the Kingdom of God. Are we as the church fulfilling needs when we see them or are we relying on others to take up the opportunity? Are we also allowing God to make us into people with a good reputation in the process? Jesus gave us the perfect example of what it looks like to be a servant to others. These tasks can feel difficult, but they're more than attainable because Jesus has overcome all obstacles that come our way when we're obedient to accomplishing his will. We are never alone.
"Now at this time, as the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint developed on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, 'It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. Instead, brothers and sisters, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.' The announcement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch. And they brought these men before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them." Acts 6:1-6
Here we see the first conflict within the church in the book of Acts. Ananias and Sapphira half-heartedly served the Lord with their possessions. Their hearts focused on what the church could give them instead of what they could offer to advance the Kingdom of God. They held tighter to their material possessions than to what God could do through them. When you serve, are you doing it for selfish reasons? Do you serve so you can call attention to yourself or do you serve knowing that all your gifts, talents, and abilities are gifts from God? The church is like the body. Each part of the body has a special role in the full function of the whole unit. Don't let fear stop you from finding the greatest joy you could ever experience by serving the Lord with your whole heart. He promises to never leave us or forsake us. His plans are to prosper us and not to harm us. His plans are to give us hope and a future! Will you trust him today?
And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all. For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales and lay them at the apostles' feet, and they would be distributed to each to the extent that any had need. Acts 4:32-35
The gospel of Jesus Christ is the most powerful truth we can ever speak as followers. In Acts, we see how The Holy Spirit gives Jesus' disciples the power to preach in different languages. Thousands are saved because of their obedience. It also gave them the power to heal in Jesus' name. At this point, the same group of influential people who thought they killed Jesus find themselves to be angry and unsettled. Jesus was dead in their eyes, yet many were proclaiming that he rose again and is alive. Despite what the world tells us how we should be as Christians, we MUST be bold and keep proclaiming the truth. We have this example in Acts of how the church should be. It starts in our hearts. Are we willing to know what the word says? Are we spending enough time hiding God's word in our heart so the Holy Spirit can use us? Are we in prayer, spending one-on-one time with Jesus Christ? Let's be ready to go out into the world so that we can be bold and persistent! Talking about religion is important because it's the only way to salvation. Are you allowing God to mold your heart for this task?
"Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead- by him this man is standing before you as well. This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4: 8-12
At their first meeting, Jesus gazed intently at Simon. He immediately tells him he's giving him a new name- Peter, which means "a rock." Jesus saw all that Simon would become. He would constantly stumble and mess up, but he would become "a rock" for the church. We see in Acts how Peter is transformed and speaks boldly in the name of Jesus Christ. He goes out and performs miracles in Jesus' name and not his own. This is the same man who denied Jesus three times at the rooster's crow. How is your walk with Jesus? It's a rocky journey, it takes time, but Jesus sees who we are going to become. Even though we stumble and mess up just like Peter, are we allowing Jesus to transform our hearts?
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. "
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
The Holy Spirit is a gift from God the Father. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit we learn what to do, how to act, and what to say. Just as Jesus was obedient, we must also be obedient- it's the path to life! Jesus shows us how to do this very thing. Despite the many struggles, trials, and temptations he faced, he still chose to obey God. Not only that, but we can experience the Holy Spirit too! It's His gift to us until he returns. Will you accept the gift of the Holy Spirit into your heart, and allow the peace of God to flow through you? What is Jesus calling you to surrender (through obedience) so you can grow in your faith and experience a life of purpose? How can you reach others with the help of the Holy Spirit?
"And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with different tongues, as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out. Now there were Jews residing in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the crowd came together and they were bewildered, because each one of them was hearing them speak in his own language. They were amazed and astonished, saying, 'Why, are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we each hear them in our own language to which we were born?'." Acts 2:4- 8
The church is a called-out, assembly of God's people. The church exists to expand the Kingdom of God through trust and obedience. It's not just a physical building where people gather to hear a weekly sermon. It's a way to be connected with Christ, to be near to Him. As God's people, we are to go out into the world- this could even be to a friend, family member, co-worker, neighbor, or even stranger. We should never become too comfortable with where we are in our faith. When was the last time you were challenged to share your faith with others? How has Jesus Christ made a difference in your life? When was the last time your soul sat with the Savior? When we are in line with God's teaching, it's a starting point to go out and be the church. Jesus gives us the perfect example in the New Testament of what it looks like to be the church. He knows exactly what we need to do the same, and we are fully equipped because of His great love for us!
"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth. And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were watching, and a cloud took him up, out of their sight. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, then behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them, and they said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven." Acts 1: 8-11
Moses died and Joshua was told to go immediately and continue to accomplish the tasks that God intended for His people. God promised to be with Joshua just as he had been with Moses. God promises to be with us just like he promised to be with Joshua. Have you ever had an opportunity for something new, and didn't know how to do it? That's how Joshua felt. It's how we often feel too. Are you ready to go where you've never been before? Are you bringing people with you? Are you making the first move so others will come with you in living out God's plan? God will never leave you or forsake you in the tasks that He has put ahead of you. In fact, God loves us so much he gave us Jesus' example of how to accomplish the things we're called to do individually.
"No one will be able to oppose you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not desert you nor abandon you. Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the Law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may achieve success wherever you go." Joshua 1: 5-6
Jesus is and forever will be the most transformative gift that has ever been given to humanity. Through Christ, God has made a way for us to be reconciled to Him. He gave his one and only son for each and every one of us while we were still sinners. He did this so we may be with Him for all eternity because He loves us. We must be careful not to worship the things that God creates. Rather, we must worship God for who He was, is, and always will be. He never changes. He loves us and meets us exactly where we are today regardless of what we might be going through. Will you choose the gift of life that has been freely given to you? Will you ignore the things of God or will you go inspect and investigate them like the Shepherds did the night Jesus was born into this sinful world?
"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly hosts appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." Luke 2:8-14
Humanity may think they have a firm understanding of God’s love. However, just when we think we have a grasp, it blows our mind again and again! Love is the cornerstone for a relationship with God, and it makes us do crazy things. This love is unconditional love. We are commanded to love each other as God has loved us. When we know God’s love, we are convicted to love others with the same love. God’s love has no conditions. He doesn’t only love us when we’re at our best. He meets us where we are and through whatever we may be going through. When we know He loves us through our own struggles- we can love others through theirs as well. Are we living His example? Do we take pleasure in Him? Do we prize Him? Do we pursue Him?
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” John 15:12-14
Joy is the positive, human, condition that can be either a feeling or an action. It's a feeling called forth by well-being, success, or good fortune. It's something we can apply regardless of how we feel. Joy in adverse circumstances is possible only as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, who is present in every Christian. Who in your life reminds you of the promises of God? Who encourages you to have more faith in Him? Joy is a choice we make. It involves surrender. Joy gives us freedom.
"To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy- to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power, and authority through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen." Jude 24-25
Hope is not hard work and isn't human-based. It is time under tension with trust. Hope is the anticipation that something will be better or happen down the road. K.P. Donfried says that in the Bible, hope is not normally expressed as desire (something good that one would like to have happen), but as expectation (something good that one knows is going to happen and, so, anticipates). In a religious sense, hope is the expectation of a favorable future under God's direction. Does the way we "hope" point others to look confidently at Christ? If not, what or who is our hope in?
"We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, grown inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Romans 8:22-25
Advent is the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. The coming into view or place or the arrival of something. Jesus Christ alone is our peace. God loves us so much that he didn't leave us in utter darkness. He sent Jesus Christ to be a light in the world. Peace is just one of the free gifts that he left when he paid the ultimate sacrifice on the cross. It's ours to accept- a choice that we have to make on our own. The peace of God surpasses all of our understanding. It will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Romans 12:18).
"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." Isaiah 9:2
Soli Deo Gloria means to the glory of God alone. Glory is defined by wonder and worth. It's something so priceless that it leaves someone speechless. When God shows up, He transforms! God doesn't need our permission to exist. All of creation knows its purpose. Everything from stars, trees, and animals know, but do we know ours?
"The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him."
Colossians 1:15
If we don't have Christ, we have nothing at all. When our faith is based on what church we went to, what religious history our families have, if we've been baptized, and many other things- we're relying on ourselves. Ultimately, Jesus plus nothing equals everything. It is the answer to solving our sin problems, eternal death, and the wrath of God. God is a very loving God, but He is also a God of justice. He sent Jesus Christ to save us from the wrath that we deserve. What are you running to when you face struggles in your life? Are you relying on yourself, others, controlling behavior, alcohol, drugs, porn, or something else? We need to run straight to Jesus, and Jesus alone. He is the only one who can save, and He is more than willing because He loves you so much!
"He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." Titus 3:5
Sola Fide means faith alone. Faith is the knowledge, belief, and trust that what God says will be accomplished. Simply having knowledge of the Bible is not faith. We must also believe that what the Bible says is true. The third piece to faith is making the word of God personal. We must live it out and put it into practice. When we step out in faith, God takes over the rest.
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed- a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith'." Romans 1: 16-17
The Bible teaches the totality of our salvation. Salvation is the gift of grace from God, and not that of ourselves. Grace is favor, credit, a gift, benefit, goodwill, privilege, charm, free benevolence, and ultimately in the sense of goodwill that is freely given by God especially to the benefit of the recipient. This is regardless of the benefit accrued by God. Everyone is out to look for hope. The hope we have is that Jesus Christ was crucified according to scriptures. In that, he was buried and raised to life on the third day so we can have hope for all of eternity!
"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions- it is by grace you have been saved." Ephesians 2:4-5
The Bible didn't originate with man. Rather, it originated with God and the Holy Spirit. It was God giving us his grand, redemptive, plan of humanity! God is a loving God who wants us to know him. When was the last time you let God's word read you? When we spend time in the word, it reveals our intentions, our wrongs, and the things we're doing right. Scripture cuts to the heart, reveals our need for righteousness, and points us to the righteous one. We must devote ourselves to the teachings of God's word. The Bible alone is the sole authority on how we should live our lives.
"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." 2 Timothy 3:16
The centrality of the Gospel community applies not only on our doorstep but to the ends of the Earth. God summons us both to proclaim His excellencies and to be a people for His own possession. It is our responsibility and privilege as Christians to go and be engaged in missions - locally, domestically and internationally. God has commissioned, called, and commanded us, just go!
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Nothing significant or lasting can happen apart from God. Intimate prayer is how we align ourselves with God and His ways. Prayer is often only done when one needs something, but that’s not all prayer is intended to be….that’s missing the forest for the tree. Pray like everything depends on God. Pray often, pray together, pray alone, and pray without ceasing.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18
Nothing significant or lasting can happen apart from God. Intimate prayer is how we align ourselves with God and His ways. Prayer is often only done when one needs something, but that’s not all prayer is intended to be….that’s missing the forest for the tree. Pray like everything depends on God. Pray often, pray together, pray alone, and pray without ceasing.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18
Spoiler alert: It’s not just about music and singing. It’s every feeling, thought, word and deed that can and should be heartfelt and humble worship! To worship Jesus is to hand over everything of ourselves to Him because Jesus handed Himself over to God. Out of reverence and awe for Jesus, we worship.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2
CCLI License - 20761186
Faithful investors get a return and in God’s kingdom it’s a wild investment with an eternal return. We believe that every person has something to give. In measuring our investment alongside the grace that has been given to us, our investment seems quite insignificant. But together in God’s hand’s...our insignificant investments change the world. Little is much in the hands of our great God.
Enjoy this sermon all about our fifth core value "Enthusiastic Storytellers."
Check out our website at www.awakennm.church.
This sermon was recorded on August 30, 2020.
Join Justin Chaplin as he talks about our fourth core value "Devoted Lovers."
Please check out our website at: www.awakennm.church
Also check out our other podcast "Jolt Podcast from Awaken Church NM."
Thank you for listening, have a wonderful week of worship.
This sermon was recorded on August 23, 2020.
Please join us as Matt Flores talks through our third Awaken Core Value of "Committed Discipleship."
Visit our website at: www.awakennm.church for more information.
This sermon was recorded on August 16, 2020.
Please join us as Matt Flores talks through our second Awaken Core Value of "Biblical Transformation."
Visit our website at: www.awakennm.church for more information.
This sermon was recorded on August 09, 2020.
Please join us as Matt Flores talks through our first Awaken Core Value of "Authentic Community."
Visit our website at: www.awakennm.church for more information.
This sermon was recorded on August 02, 2020.
Please join us as Matt Flores outlines what Awaken Church is, and where we are going. This is our first sermon message as Awaken Church.
Visit our website at: www.awakennm.church for more information.
Join us, and listen to our second service in the park, on the monumental day that Awaken Church was announced publicly. Please enjoy this service with Matt Flores as he talks about the serving gifts outline in the Bible.
Please check out our website at: www.awakennm.church
Have a wonderful week of worship.
Join us for our first week in the park. This service is part of a two part series that we did prior to the announcement of Awaken Church. Enjoy as Christ Franklin outlines the speaking gifts from the Bible.
Check out our website at: www.awakennm.church.
Have a wonderful week of worship.