Main - all mp3's: Recent Episodes
Marilyn Tepora
s relationship with the God of his Fathers and explore what lessons we can learn about having a more dynamic faith with this same Living God.
s relationship with the God of his Fathers and explore what lessons we can learn about having a more dynamic faith with this same Living God.
s grief not just over the outcome, but over the offense against a holy and loving God. It moves from guilt to godly sorrow, from regret to real change."
s grief not just over the outcome, but over the offense against a holy and loving God. It moves from guilt to godly sorrow, from regret to real change."
declaring that God is still good, still present, and still worthy.Baptism, message, and mission commissioning
declaring that God is still good, still present, and still worthy.Baptism, message, and mission commissioning
becomes the anchor of his soul. The comparison that once fueled envy is replaced with communion that produces contentment"
becomes the anchor of his soul. The comparison that once fueled envy is replaced with communion that produces contentment"
a table prepared, a cup overflowing, and the promise of dwelling with Him always. This is the steady, lifelong faithfulness of our Shepherd. These attributes of the Good Shepherd are worthy of fathers -if not all parents- to emulate in shepherding their children. Raising children is no joke; God reassures parents He has their backs. "All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace." (Isaiah 54:13)
a table prepared, a cup overflowing, and the promise of dwelling with Him always. This is the steady, lifelong faithfulness of our Shepherd. These attributes of the Good Shepherd are worthy of fathers -if not all parents- to emulate in shepherding their children. Raising children is no joke; God reassures parents He has their backs. "All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace." (Isaiah 54:13)
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:1-3
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:1-3
JesusDanielEstherHere is a short challenge for us all 2.0:TRUST IN GODBe a reconciler, not a dividerPrioritize influence (or inspiration) over powerHold leaders accountable (including those on your own side)Serve the vulnerableACT BOLDLY
JesusDanielEstherHere is a short challenge for us all 2.0:TRUST IN GODBe a reconciler, not a dividerPrioritize influence (or inspiration) over powerHold leaders accountable (including those on your own side)Serve the vulnerableACT BOLDLY
s ask a better question:How do we live faithfully as Christians in public life so that Jesus is honored and His kingdom grows?
s ask a better question:How do we live faithfully as Christians in public life so that Jesus is honored and His kingdom grows?
Has Easter lost its true meaning, even for many followers of Jesus? When you hear "Easter" what images come to mind? Colorful dyed eggs, marshmallow peeps, cute bunny rabbits, Spring Break? This Sunday we will rediscover the awe and wonder of the resurrection through 5 images found in the Easter story:folded cloth, wood/tree, lamb's blood, honey, and gold. Let us celebrate the risen Lord. He is risen indeed!
Has Easter lost its true meaning, even for many followers of Jesus? When you hear "Easter" what images come to mind? Colorful dyed eggs, marshmallow peeps, cute bunny rabbits, Spring Break? This Sunday we will rediscover the awe and wonder of the resurrection through 5 images found in the Easter story:folded cloth, wood/tree, lamb's blood, honey, and gold. Let us celebrate the risen Lord. He is risen indeed!
Matt 6:12 version differencesForgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.Points:1. Forgiveness is a conscious decision to release feelings of resentment and vengeance towards someone who has harmed you.2. Practicing forgiveness promotes emotional healing and enhances psychological well-being by reducing stress and negative emotions.3. Forgiveness is a process that may require time and reflection, and it does not mean forgetting or condoning the offense. It is also not reconciliation, though forgiveness is required for reconciliation.
Matt 6:12 version differencesForgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.Points:1. Forgiveness is a conscious decision to release feelings of resentment and vengeance towards someone who has harmed you.2. Practicing forgiveness promotes emotional healing and enhances psychological well-being by reducing stress and negative emotions.3. Forgiveness is a process that may require time and reflection, and it does not mean forgetting or condoning the offense. It is also not reconciliation, though forgiveness is required for reconciliation.
CLC's folks are generous with time, talent and money and recognize God's generosity to them. Early Church was astounding in its diversity-3000 added in a day, men, women and people of all ethnicities. All equally valued and included on basis of being a Jesus follower; "had everything in common" = what does this practically mean? Common possessions, common place/time (or proximity), common purpose-common dream and direction by power of God's Spirit. What makes us one is not our sameness but rather our commitment to following Jesus- What does that unity amidst diversity mean? Truthtelling, acceptance/belonging based only on Jesus, practical covenant relationship with CLC family.
CLC's folks are generous with time, talent and money and recognize God's generosity to them. Early Church was astounding in its diversity-3000 added in a day, men, women and people of all ethnicities. All equally valued and included on basis of being a Jesus follower; "had everything in common" = what does this practically mean? Common possessions, common place/time (or proximity), common purpose-common dream and direction by power of God's Spirit. What makes us one is not our sameness but rather our commitment to following Jesus- What does that unity amidst diversity mean? Truthtelling, acceptance/belonging based only on Jesus, practical covenant relationship with CLC family.
Human nature often is attracted to big, flashy objects. As a child did you ignore the obvious socks/underwear gift boxes, but instead grabbed first the big wrapped present that resembled the latest gaming console? Sadly many Christians similarly ignore the Holy Spirit, even worse resist his influence for other worldly things. To be God's witnesses in the world requires the Holy Spirit to be active in believers; otherwise efforts are futile. In Acts 2, the retelling of Pentecost reminds us of the precious gift of the Holy Spirit, often neglected, but always present. "Resistance is futile!"
Human nature often is attracted to big, flashy objects. As a child did you ignore the obvious socks/underwear gift boxes, but instead grabbed first the big wrapped present that resembled the latest gaming console? Sadly many Christians similarly ignore the Holy Spirit, even worse resist his influence for other worldly things. To be God's witnesses in the world requires the Holy Spirit to be active in believers; otherwise efforts are futile. In Acts 2, the retelling of Pentecost reminds us of the precious gift of the Holy Spirit, often neglected, but always present. "Resistance is futile!"
If God told you to do something so unbelievably difficult, how would you respond? In the case of Mary, a mere teenager, when an angel told her God was going to change her life forever, she answered, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." On top of that Mary sang a song of praise and gratitude. God chose Mary because she could handle the assignment. We will learn how to be more like her so God can use us for His purposes.
If God told you to do something so unbelievably difficult, how would you respond? In the case of Mary, a mere teenager, when an angel told her God was going to change her life forever, she answered, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." On top of that Mary sang a song of praise and gratitude. God chose Mary because she could handle the assignment. We will learn how to be more like her so God can use us for His purposes.
If God told you to do something so unbelievably difficult, how would you respond? In the case of Mary, a mere teenager, when an angel told her God was going to change her life forever, she answered, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." On top of that Mary sang a song of praise and gratitude. God chose Mary because she could handle the assignment. We will learn how to be more like her so God can use us for His purposes.
If God told you to do something so unbelievably difficult, how would you respond? In the case of Mary, a mere teenager, when an angel told her God was going to change her life forever, she answered, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." On top of that Mary sang a song of praise and gratitude. God chose Mary because she could handle the assignment. We will learn how to be more like her so God can use us for His purposes.
How fitting that Luke finishes his book on the note of death and the resurrection of Christ. Two disciples are walking to Emmaus, talking about what just happened. And Jesus, the risen Lord, joins them, but they don't recognize Him. Why? Not because He was hiding - but because they weren't expecting HIs resurrection. Could it be that we don't experience New Hope and New Joy in our daily lives because we stopped expecting God to move in our ordinary lives. In today's message, we are going to learn that "resurrection" is not just something we believe in; it is something we live in!
How fitting that Luke finishes his book on the note of death and the resurrection of Christ. Two disciples are walking to Emmaus, talking about what just happened. And Jesus, the risen Lord, joins them, but they don't recognize Him. Why? Not because He was hiding - but because they weren't expecting HIs resurrection. Could it be that we don't experience New Hope and New Joy in our daily lives because we stopped expecting God to move in our ordinary lives. In today's message, we are going to learn that "resurrection" is not just something we believe in; it is something we live in!
How fitting that Luke finishes his book on the note of death and the resurrection of Christ. Two disciples are walking to Emmaus, talking about what just happened. And Jesus, the risen Lord, joins them, but they don't recognize Him. Why? Not because He was hiding - but because they weren't expecting HIs resurrection. Could it be that we don't experience New Hope and New Joy in our daily lives because we stopped expecting God to move in our ordinary lives. In today's message, we are going to learn that "resurrection" is not just something we believe in; it is something we live in!
How fitting that Luke finishes his book on the note of death and the resurrection of Christ. Two disciples are walking to Emmaus, talking about what just happened. And Jesus, the risen Lord, joins them, but they don't recognize Him. Why? Not because He was hiding - but because they weren't expecting HIs resurrection. Could it be that we don't experience New Hope and New Joy in our daily lives because we stopped expecting God to move in our ordinary lives. In today's message, we are going to learn that "resurrection" is not just something we believe in; it is something we live in!
"""History is written by the victors!"" This saying implies that historical records often reflect the perspective of the powerful and can be incomplete or biased, ignoring the stories of the powerless.Unfortunately this can apply to Bible teaching like for this weekend on the Widow's Offering found in Luke 21. In our current series New Hope New Joy, we are seeing with new eyes Jesus' teachings in the Book of Luke that is consistent with his message of good news to the poor, the imprisoned, the sick and the oppressed. Come and see we have a God of Justice.
"""History is written by the victors!"" This saying implies that historical records often reflect the perspective of the powerful and can be incomplete or biased, ignoring the stories of the powerless.Unfortunately this can apply to Bible teaching like for this weekend on the Widow's Offering found in Luke 21. In our current series New Hope New Joy, we are seeing with new eyes Jesus' teachings in the Book of Luke that is consistent with his message of good news to the poor, the imprisoned, the sick and the oppressed. Come and see we have a God of Justice.
Have you ever dropped something small but valuable, like a diamond earring, on the floor? You search everywhere, on your hands and knees, even using a flashlight, desperately combing through the carpet with your fingers. It's trying to "find the needle in the haystack." Suddenly when you do find the lost earring, your heart leaps for joy. What was lost is now found. That's how God feels when someone turns back and returns to Him. Because we all matter to God. Come and see in the story of the Lost Son in Luke 15 God's amazing unconditional, even Reckless Love for His children. That's New Hope, New Joy!
Have you ever dropped something small but valuable, like a diamond earring, on the floor? You search everywhere, on your hands and knees, even using a flashlight, desperately combing through the carpet with your fingers. It's trying to "find the needle in the haystack." Suddenly when you do find the lost earring, your heart leaps for joy. What was lost is now found. That's how God feels when someone turns back and returns to Him. Because we all matter to God. Come and see in the story of the Lost Son in Luke 15 God's amazing unconditional, even Reckless Love for His children. That's New Hope, New Joy!
When it came to John the Baptist, Jesus Christ said "he was of a great man!" His core message in conjuction with the symbolic baptism is one of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. In today's message we want to find out how we find "New Hope" and "New Joy" with a heart of repentance.
When it came to John the Baptist, Jesus Christ said "he was of a great man!" His core message in conjuction with the symbolic baptism is one of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. In today's message we want to find out how we find "New Hope" and "New Joy" with a heart of repentance.
At the heart of Jesus' message is the truth that God SEEs us as deeply valuable, created in His image, and worth redeeming no matter our failures and brokenness. In this message, Jesus sees and welcomes a Levi the tax collector who was an outcast but give him "New Hope and New Joy" by renaming him as 'a gift!'
At the heart of Jesus' message is the truth that God SEEs us as deeply valuable, created in His image, and worth redeeming no matter our failures and brokenness. In this message, Jesus sees and welcomes a Levi the tax collector who was an outcast but give him "New Hope and New Joy" by renaming him as 'a gift!'
Jesus' message both confounds and delights. This was true for his original audience and it is true today. Jesus proclaims that he brings good news to the poor, sets the oppressed free and proclaims the Lord's favor (Luke 4:18-19). Jesus' original hearers were most surprised at the breadth and depth of God's inclusive invitation. God's good news invites us to see ourselves and others as deeply treasured and fully loved. Luke urges us to ""put ourselves in the story" asking when do I embrace this good news? Where do I resist it? How do I experience new joy and hope in Jesus and who in my life might receive this good news as well. We invite you to join us to see in Jesus, God's compassionate rescue and powerful grace. This is New Hope, New Joy.
Jesus' message both confounds and delights. This was true for his original audience and it is true today. Jesus proclaims that he brings good news to the poor, sets the oppressed free and proclaims the Lord's favor (Luke 4:18-19). Jesus' original hearers were most surprised at the breadth and depth of God's inclusive invitation. God's good news invites us to see ourselves and others as deeply treasured and fully loved. Luke urges us to ""put ourselves in the story" asking when do I embrace this good news? Where do I resist it? How do I experience new joy and hope in Jesus and who in my life might receive this good news as well. We invite you to join us to see in Jesus, God's compassionate rescue and powerful grace. This is New Hope, New Joy.
Studying through God's Word requires not just information but formation. It will require us to rewire our brains so that we can deeply attune to God's speaking voice as we "Read", "Memorize", "Meditate", and "Study" His words. And when we do, we receive the power to grow spiritually and live tranformally!
Studying through God's Word requires not just information but formation. It will require us to rewire our brains so that we can deeply attune to God's speaking voice as we "Read", "Memorize", "Meditate", and "Study" His words. And when we do, we receive the power to grow spiritually and live tranformally!
You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave
You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave
If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. " Matt 16:24
If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. " Matt 16:24
As we live, we will always need HELP! People need help in learning how to drive, to swim, or need help with schoolwork. Spiritually it's the same as many believers are unware that there is a helper, the Holy Spirit. And the good news is that a Help has arrived as Jesus ascended after His resurrection. So, if last week, we learnd what the "Gift of Easter" was, then this Sunday we are looking at how to operate the "Gift," the gift of the Holy Spirit!
As we live, we will always need HELP! People need help in learning how to drive, to swim, or need help with schoolwork. Spiritually it's the same as many believers are unware that there is a helper, the Holy Spirit. And the good news is that a Help has arrived as Jesus ascended after His resurrection. So, if last week, we learnd what the "Gift of Easter" was, then this Sunday we are looking at how to operate the "Gift," the gift of the Holy Spirit!
As we live, we will always need HELP! People need help in learning how to drive, to swim, or need help with schoolwork. Spiritually it's the same as many believers are unware that there is a helper, the Holy Spirit. And the good news is that a Help has arrived as Jesus ascended after His resurrection. So, if last week, we learnd what the "Gift of Easter" was, then this Sunday we are looking at how to operate the "Gift," the gift of the Holy Spirit!
As we live, we will always need HELP! People need help in learning how to drive, to swim, or need help with schoolwork. Spiritually it's the same as many believers are unware that there is a helper, the Holy Spirit. And the good news is that a Help has arrived as Jesus ascended after His resurrection. So, if last week, we learnd what the "Gift of Easter" was, then this Sunday we are looking at how to operate the "Gift," the gift of the Holy Spirit!
records and recounts moments of wonder at God's creation, His works, and His love. Wonder is an essential part of the Christian life.Wonder:Draws us to GodFacilitates sacramental worldview and praxisSustains us in suffering
records and recounts moments of wonder at God's creation, His works, and His love. Wonder is an essential part of the Christian life.Wonder:Draws us to GodFacilitates sacramental worldview and praxisSustains us in suffering
Who doesn't like to eat? Food for sure is necessary for physical nourishment, but also brings enjoyment and pleasure. The opposite is fasting, a common practice in ancient times for followers of Jesus, but not so much today. Yet Jesus said, "Love the Lord with all of your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all of your strength." (Mark 12:30 NIV)A relationship with Jesus is wholistic, requiring both our minds AND our bodies. And fasting is "one of the best disciplines we have to reintegrate our mind to our body, and offer our whole selves to God in surrender." (Comer) Fasting can help us to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and to live as he did. This week is part one in the Practice of Fasting: to Offer Ourselves to Jesus. "Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship." (Romans 12:1 NIV)
Who doesn't like to eat? Food for sure is necessary for physical nourishment, but also brings enjoyment and pleasure. The opposite is fasting, a common practice in ancient times for followers of Jesus, but not so much today. Yet Jesus said, "Love the Lord with all of your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all of your strength." (Mark 12:30 NIV)A relationship with Jesus is wholistic, requiring both our minds AND our bodies. And fasting is "one of the best disciplines we have to reintegrate our mind to our body, and offer our whole selves to God in surrender." (Comer) Fasting can help us to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and to live as he did. This week is part one in the Practice of Fasting: to Offer Ourselves to Jesus. "Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship." (Romans 12:1 NIV)
how committing Scripture to memory can transform our hearts and minds. The things we remember shape us, sustain us, and give us hope.
how committing Scripture to memory can transform our hearts and minds. The things we remember shape us, sustain us, and give us hope.
There comes a point in our relationship with God where we desire not just to speak to him, but also to listen - "to hear His voice." As Jesus said in John 10:27, "My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow me." But how do we hear the voice of God? Today, we will learn how to sift through all the "voices" in our head as well as those coming from the outside to discern how God is speaking to us.
There comes a point in our relationship with God where we desire not just to speak to him, but also to listen - "to hear His voice." As Jesus said in John 10:27, "My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow me." But how do we hear the voice of God? Today, we will learn how to sift through all the "voices" in our head as well as those coming from the outside to discern how God is speaking to us.
One of the most iconic songs we sing during Advent is "Silent Night, Holy Night." Yet, the events surrounding the birth of Jesus were far from silent or serene. The Star of David first appeared to the Magi, the shepherds, and to the world, but for many, its significance went unnoticed. Thousands of people saw the star but remained unaware of the greatest event in history unfolding before them, continuing to live as they always had.As we conclude our final message of 2024, we invite you to "Come and Adore," for our Savior is born!
One of the most iconic songs we sing during Advent is "Silent Night, Holy Night." Yet, the events surrounding the birth of Jesus were far from silent or serene. The Star of David first appeared to the Magi, the shepherds, and to the world, but for many, its significance went unnoticed. Thousands of people saw the star but remained unaware of the greatest event in history unfolding before them, continuing to live as they always had.As we conclude our final message of 2024, we invite you to "Come and Adore," for our Savior is born!
Have you ever found yourself on the outside looking in?It’s a lonely feeling—being left out or not invited. Many people assume faith works the same way: that it’s only for a select few, the chosen, or those who take it seriously enough. In fact, some religions emphasize and even celebrate this kind of exclusivity.But the story of Christmas changes everything. The way God entered the world through Jesus completely disrupts the idea of a closed circle—an exclusive club for the privileged few. Christ’s humble birth shows us that everyone is welcome, everyone is invited. There’s no secret handshake, no special membership, no insiders-only group.This week, we’ll explore how the birth of Jesus the Messiah, removes all barriers that might keep people from approaching God. Through Him, everyone is free to draw close.
Have you ever found yourself on the outside looking in?It’s a lonely feeling—being left out or not invited. Many people assume faith works the same way: that it’s only for a select few, the chosen, or those who take it seriously enough. In fact, some religions emphasize and even celebrate this kind of exclusivity.But the story of Christmas changes everything. The way God entered the world through Jesus completely disrupts the idea of a closed circle—an exclusive club for the privileged few. Christ’s humble birth shows us that everyone is welcome, everyone is invited. There’s no secret handshake, no special membership, no insiders-only group.This week, we’ll explore how the birth of Jesus the Messiah, removes all barriers that might keep people from approaching God. Through Him, everyone is free to draw close.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Christmas story is the immediate response of those who encountered the newborn Messiah. The news of Jesus’s arrival made John the Baptist leap in his mother’s womb, inspired Mary to sing, and moved an elderly man in the temple to tears of gratitude. God invited everyone—from humble shepherds to royal Magi, from close family to passing strangers—to witness the miracle of the manger. Their responses reflected a heavenly scene of wonder, worship, and adoration. This Christmas season, the invitation remains open to “come adore” the Savior given to us.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Christmas story is the immediate response of those who encountered the newborn Messiah. The news of Jesus’s arrival made John the Baptist leap in his mother’s womb, inspired Mary to sing, and moved an elderly man in the temple to tears of gratitude. God invited everyone—from humble shepherds to royal Magi, from close family to passing strangers—to witness the miracle of the manger. Their responses reflected a heavenly scene of wonder, worship, and adoration. This Christmas season, the invitation remains open to “come adore” the Savior given to us.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Christmas story is the immediate response of those who encountered the newborn Messiah. The news of Jesus’s arrival made John the Baptist leap in his mother’s womb, inspired Mary to sing, and moved an elderly man in the temple to tears of gratitude. God invited everyone—from humble shepherds to royal Magi, from close family to passing strangers—to witness the miracle of the manger. Their responses reflected a heavenly scene of wonder, worship, and adoration. This Christmas season, the invitation remains open to “come adore” the Savior given to us.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Christmas story is the immediate response of those who encountered the newborn Messiah. The news of Jesus’s arrival made John the Baptist leap in his mother’s womb, inspired Mary to sing, and moved an elderly man in the temple to tears of gratitude. God invited everyone—from humble shepherds to royal Magi, from close family to passing strangers—to witness the miracle of the manger. Their responses reflected a heavenly scene of wonder, worship, and adoration. This Christmas season, the invitation remains open to “come adore” the Savior given to us.
Gratitude is the key that opens the church doors to the outside world. True thankfulness is a wellspring of joy that overflows from within our hearts that leads us to worship the One who sent His very own Son. When we experience deep gratitude for what God has given us, it inspires an outward servitude and brings the eternal blessings that only the Church can provide.In today's sermon message, we will explore the story of a woman who gave up her most prized possessions to become a blessing to others.
Gratitude is the key that opens the church doors to the outside world. True thankfulness is a wellspring of joy that overflows from within our hearts that leads us to worship the One who sent His very own Son. When we experience deep gratitude for what God has given us, it inspires an outward servitude and brings the eternal blessings that only the Church can provide.In today's sermon message, we will explore the story of a woman who gave up her most prized possessions to become a blessing to others.
Sermon on Zoom In Yellowstone National Park the most famous attraction is "Old Faithful!" It's not the biggest nor the most powerful geyser in the park, but it's the most popular tourist attraction because of its regularity and consistency. Of all the attributes that people may possess, be it genius or competence, faithfulness always tops the list. In Sunday's message God demonstrates His goodness and faithfulness to Hosea."The greatest ability is Dependability!" - Dr. Bob Jones Sr.
Sermon on Zoom In Yellowstone National Park the most famous attraction is "Old Faithful!" It's not the biggest nor the most powerful geyser in the park, but it's the most popular tourist attraction because of its regularity and consistency. Of all the attributes that people may possess, be it genius or competence, faithfulness always tops the list. In Sunday's message God demonstrates His goodness and faithfulness to Hosea."The greatest ability is Dependability!" - Dr. Bob Jones Sr.
What is interesting about the book of Esther is that the name of God is never mentioned. And sometimes in the midst of the storm, we wonder, "Where is God?" And too often in our faith journey, we become anxious about Him not showing up but in this very book God does show up! And we see providence and we witness His sovereignty. And maybe God's name is withheld on purpose because God wants us to have a breakthrough in our faith - moving from the common to UNcommon. In part 2 of Esther's story, we see God silently moving behind the scenes as Esther begins to pray and fast.
What is interesting about the book of Esther is that the name of God is never mentioned. And sometimes in the midst of the storm, we wonder, "Where is God?" And too often in our faith journey, we become anxious about Him not showing up but in this very book God does show up! And we see providence and we witness His sovereignty. And maybe God's name is withheld on purpose because God wants us to have a breakthrough in our faith - moving from the common to UNcommon. In part 2 of Esther's story, we see God silently moving behind the scenes as Esther begins to pray and fast.
In our overpopulated world, it is easy to underestimate the significance of ONE. It is easy to underestimate the value of ONE's faith. Today, we will see how ONE person's "UNcommon" faith, her prayers and fasting, saved the whole entire Jewish nation!
In our overpopulated world, it is easy to underestimate the significance of ONE. It is easy to underestimate the value of ONE's faith. Today, we will see how ONE person's "UNcommon" faith, her prayers and fasting, saved the whole entire Jewish nation!
Barnabas is a name far less well known than his companion Paul, yet scripture shows us that Barnabas was "a good man whom the Holy Spirit...endowed with exceptional faith" Acts 11:24. Join us Sunday to hearthe Spirit-led adventures of the early church and the humble leadership of a man called Barnabas. Barnabas' faithful obedience was used by God to spread the good news of Jesus. Few know his name, but most of us can trace our own faith back to the faithfulness of this humble follower of Jesus.
Barnabas is a name far less well known than his companion Paul, yet scripture shows us that Barnabas was "a good man whom the Holy Spirit...endowed with exceptional faith" Acts 11:24. Join us Sunday to hearthe Spirit-led adventures of the early church and the humble leadership of a man called Barnabas. Barnabas' faithful obedience was used by God to spread the good news of Jesus. Few know his name, but most of us can trace our own faith back to the faithfulness of this humble follower of Jesus.
Have you ever been through a tough season in your life and wondered where God was? Have you ever struggled to have faith in the midst of hardship and trials? The story of Hannah helps to answer some of these difficult questions by modeling to us an uncommon faith grounded in prayer! Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series and learn how to have faith like Hannah!
Have you ever been through a tough season in your life and wondered where God was? Have you ever struggled to have faith in the midst of hardship and trials? The story of Hannah helps to answer some of these difficult questions by modeling to us an uncommon faith grounded in prayer! Join us this Sunday as we continue in our series and learn how to have faith like Hannah!
Noah had uncommon faith not because of the large risky project of building and ark. Noah walked with God faithfully in the worse time in human history. Noah was found righteous. He then faithfully did everything God ask of him. He did the small thing right and was trusted with then with the lager things that saved humankind.
Noah had uncommon faith not because of the large risky project of building and ark. Noah walked with God faithfully in the worse time in human history. Noah was found righteous. He then faithfully did everything God ask of him. He did the small thing right and was trusted with then with the lager things that saved humankind.
- Paul demonstrates “show don’t tell”“I can do all this through him who gives me strength” Philippians 4:132. The Philippians have grown to “show don’t tell” “Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles” Philippians 4:143. God will continue in “show don’t tell” “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19You can be content in Christ I can do all things… You can be vulnerable in Christ Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles… You can trust Christ to meet all your needs…
- Paul demonstrates “show don’t tell”“I can do all this through him who gives me strength” Philippians 4:132. The Philippians have grown to “show don’t tell” “Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles” Philippians 4:143. God will continue in “show don’t tell” “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19You can be content in Christ I can do all things… You can be vulnerable in Christ Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles… You can trust Christ to meet all your needs…
Solomon, the writer of Proverbs 23:7 says: "You are the sum of your thoughts." As transformed people of God, Paul commands us to be changed not only in our attitudes and actions but also in our thinking!
Solomon, the writer of Proverbs 23:7 says: "You are the sum of your thoughts." As transformed people of God, Paul commands us to be changed not only in our attitudes and actions but also in our thinking!
Our world, our culture, our families of origin often think striving for success is good: in our education, in our careers, in sports, even dare to say "doing church". Yet this sincere thinking can be sincerely wrong. For Christians what is true success for us? In Philippians 3 Paul redefines success and shows us how to find true joy. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Phil 3:14) Stop striving and start thriving!
Our world, our culture, our families of origin often think striving for success is good: in our education, in our careers, in sports, even dare to say "doing church". Yet this sincere thinking can be sincerely wrong. For Christians what is true success for us? In Philippians 3 Paul redefines success and shows us how to find true joy. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Phil 3:14) Stop striving and start thriving!
We examine the very heart of the book of Philippians, Jesus' example of humility. The entire book of Philippians rotates around this key message. Where would unity come from? Where would relationships be mended? Where would there be light to share with others? Jesus' example of humility set the perfect example to follow, and in it we discover something much deeper: a unique understanding of who Jesus actually is.
"Jesus told his disciples,“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” (John 15:11NLT)As Christians we are apparently to be joy-filled people. However do followers of Jesus Christ really know what true joy is; even to overflow in difficult times? The Apostle Paul shared with the early Philippian church how this could be: for Christ’s sake, joy lived out. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”(Philippians 1:21NIV)"
"Jesus told his disciples,“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” (John 15:11NLT)As Christians we are apparently to be joy-filled people. However do followers of Jesus Christ really know what true joy is; even to overflow in difficult times? The Apostle Paul shared with the early Philippian church how this could be: for Christ’s sake, joy lived out. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”(Philippians 1:21NIV)"
In this most transparent prayer, Jesus shares his heart with the Father and then willingly submits to the hard road of the cross. Jesus' obedience demonstrates his trust in the father and validates His earthly words and ministry.1. We see Jesus' Pattern in Prayer2. We see Jesus' Heart in Prayer3. We see Jesus' Will in Prayer
In this most transparent prayer, Jesus shares his heart with the Father and then willingly submits to the hard road of the cross. Jesus' obedience demonstrates his trust in the father and validates His earthly words and ministry.1. We see Jesus' Pattern in Prayer2. We see Jesus' Heart in Prayer3. We see Jesus' Will in Prayer
What better way to pray than to model the prayers of Jesus. The classic Lord's Prayer found in Matthew 6 sits in the middle of what many consider Jesus' greatest message, "The Sermon on the Mount".Two movements, give and take, can be found in this prayer. In particular come and see how forgiveness is tantamount to a vital prayer life."Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."The Lord’s Prayer has 2 Movements: Give (vv.9-10) a. His Sovereignty b. Our SubmissionAre you ready to give God his Sovereignty and our Submission?Prayer of Submission:Heavenly Father,We bow before you in worship. We want to submit and surrender ourselves completely and unreservedly in every area of our lives to you. Your perfect will for us is always our best.Prayer of Submission:Lord Jesus, We worship you and we want to love and cherish you and treasure you above all else. We recognize that you alone are worthy to receive all glory, honor, and praise. We are thankful for your sacrifice on the cross that has atoned for our sins and to receive eternal life in your Name.Holy Spirit, Come fill us with joy, peace and comfort. We welcome your guidance, counsel, and help each and every day. We humbly pray this in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. Take (vv.11-13)
What better way to pray than to model the prayers of Jesus. The classic Lord's Prayer found in Matthew 6 sits in the middle of what many consider Jesus' greatest message, "The Sermon on the Mount".Two movements, give and take, can be found in this prayer. In particular come and see how forgiveness is tantamount to a vital prayer life."Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."The Lord’s Prayer has 2 Movements: Give (vv.9-10) a. His Sovereignty b. Our SubmissionAre you ready to give God his Sovereignty and our Submission?Prayer of Submission:Heavenly Father,We bow before you in worship. We want to submit and surrender ourselves completely and unreservedly in every area of our lives to you. Your perfect will for us is always our best.Prayer of Submission:Lord Jesus, We worship you and we want to love and cherish you and treasure you above all else. We recognize that you alone are worthy to receive all glory, honor, and praise. We are thankful for your sacrifice on the cross that has atoned for our sins and to receive eternal life in your Name.Holy Spirit, Come fill us with joy, peace and comfort. We welcome your guidance, counsel, and help each and every day. We humbly pray this in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. Take (vv.11-13)
Jesus' disciples were eyewitnesses to Christ's life and ministry (i.e. healing the blind, lame and the sick). But we don't hear them asking Jesus, "teach us how to heal" but rather, "Teach US to PRAY." Why? What was so special about the way Jesus prayed? Today, through examining the prayer life of Jesus in the Garden, we gain invaluable insight into having a deeper relationship with God as we follow His prayer examples!
Jesus' disciples were eyewitnesses to Christ's life and ministry (i.e. healing the blind, lame and the sick). But we don't hear them asking Jesus, "teach us how to heal" but rather, "Teach US to PRAY." Why? What was so special about the way Jesus prayed? Today, through examining the prayer life of Jesus in the Garden, we gain invaluable insight into having a deeper relationship with God as we follow His prayer examples!
Perfectionism. Who doesn't want perfection? The perfect steak, perfect health, perfect spouse, perfect church. Perfectionism can be regarded as a noble pursuit, but when taken to an extreme become toxic and harmful to oneself and to others. Honestly no one is perfect, except Jesus. Paul tells us in Romans 15:1-7 ways we can overcome the dangers of perfectionism. "Accept one another...as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." (Romans 15:7)Spiritual blind spots:- Self-reliance- Avoiding conflict resolution- Inward focus- Busyness- Material affluence- Perfectionism
Perfectionism. Who doesn't want perfection? The perfect steak, perfect health, perfect spouse, perfect church. Perfectionism can be regarded as a noble pursuit, but when taken to an extreme become toxic and harmful to oneself and to others. Honestly no one is perfect, except Jesus. Paul tells us in Romans 15:1-7 ways we can overcome the dangers of perfectionism. "Accept one another...as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." (Romans 15:7)Spiritual blind spots:- Self-reliance- Avoiding conflict resolution- Inward focus- Busyness- Material affluence- Perfectionism
Everyone is naturally inclined to be proud, but humility and mutual submission should be evident in the lives of all believers. With certain "Blind Spot" indicators to alert our surroundings for church unity, there is one Blind Spot that is readily unrecognized - Pride. In today's message, we will follow the Apostle Peter to learn about this silent and deadly "Blind Spot" - Pride.Pride must die in you, or nothing of heaven can live in you….. Andrew MurryThe chief cause of misery for every nation and every family since the beginning of time…. C. S. LewisWhile you are praying, how often do you pray for others?
Everyone is naturally inclined to be proud, but humility and mutual submission should be evident in the lives of all believers. With certain "Blind Spot" indicators to alert our surroundings for church unity, there is one Blind Spot that is readily unrecognized - Pride. In today's message, we will follow the Apostle Peter to learn about this silent and deadly "Blind Spot" - Pride.Pride must die in you, or nothing of heaven can live in you….. Andrew MurryThe chief cause of misery for every nation and every family since the beginning of time…. C. S. LewisWhile you are praying, how often do you pray for others?
Blind spots can kill the Unity of the Church: Self-reliance Inward focus Conflict resolution Busyness Material affluence PerfectionismBlind Spot Indicator: 1. A Big Heart… Do you think you have a Big heart? 2, Firm Stance. . . What would it take for you to stop following, Jesus? 3, Warm embrace...Conclusion:If you don’t build up a habit of putting Jesus first, you won’t be able to be in the Lord when conflicts arise!
Blind spots can kill the Unity of the Church: Self-reliance Inward focus Conflict resolution Busyness Material affluence PerfectionismBlind Spot Indicator: 1. A Big Heart… Do you think you have a Big heart? 2, Firm Stance. . . What would it take for you to stop following, Jesus? 3, Warm embrace...Conclusion:If you don’t build up a habit of putting Jesus first, you won’t be able to be in the Lord when conflicts arise!
“Blind spots” are areas that you cannot see but should. And they’re not just physical but also spiritual. We all have them, both individually and corporately as a church. The effects of not dealing with our blind spots can be devastating. But God has a plan to deal with them. For 6 weeks we will look at CLC’s blind spots (self-reliance, inward focus, conflict resolution, busyness, material affluence, and perfectionism) and learn what the Bible teaches to correct them.
“Blind spots” are areas that you cannot see but should. And they’re not just physical but also spiritual. We all have them, both individually and corporately as a church. The effects of not dealing with our blind spots can be devastating. But God has a plan to deal with them. For 6 weeks we will look at CLC’s blind spots (self-reliance, inward focus, conflict resolution, busyness, material affluence, and perfectionism) and learn what the Bible teaches to correct them.
Gift giving does not end after Christmas. We have a God who is loving and generous year round. Our Heavenly Father who gave the world His Son Jesus offers the Gift of New Beginnings to anyone interested, anytime, anywhere. That is the great hope we have in Jesus Christ. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Cor 5:17)
Gift giving does not end after Christmas. We have a God who is loving and generous year round. Our Heavenly Father who gave the world His Son Jesus offers the Gift of New Beginnings to anyone interested, anytime, anywhere. That is the great hope we have in Jesus Christ. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Cor 5:17)
Royal VisitRoyal GiftRoyal AnnouncementWhat gift do you bring?MEDITATE: Carefully read through the scripture, taking special note of words or phrases that are particularly meaningful to you.PRAY: Ask God what gift you can give Jesus this season that would bring Him honor and glory. Take note of what comes to mind as you pray.RESPOND: Write on a piece of paper what gift to Jesus comes to mind. Place your piece of paper in one of the gold gift boxes provided. Take your gift box home as a reminder of your gift in response to God’s ultimate gift of love to you in Christ Jesus.
Royal VisitRoyal GiftRoyal AnnouncementWhat gift do you bring?MEDITATE: Carefully read through the scripture, taking special note of words or phrases that are particularly meaningful to you.PRAY: Ask God what gift you can give Jesus this season that would bring Him honor and glory. Take note of what comes to mind as you pray.RESPOND: Write on a piece of paper what gift to Jesus comes to mind. Place your piece of paper in one of the gold gift boxes provided. Take your gift box home as a reminder of your gift in response to God’s ultimate gift of love to you in Christ Jesus.
Community LifeVideo of "Every Piece Matters" CampaignSharing - Barbara McKeeStaff Appreciation
Community LifeVideo of "Every Piece Matters" CampaignSharing - Barbara McKeeStaff Appreciation
Discipleship to Jesus includes both a clarification of your calling AND a formation of your character. V-I-M(vision, intention, means)V - VisionDo you have a vision for Jesus and His Kingdom? Are you bought in?Do you believe who Jesus says he is?Do you believe that He is worthy to be followed?Do you believe that he is worth being ALL IN for?I - IntentionHave you intentionally made the decision to follow Jesus?If not, what is holding you back? (Procrastination, busyness, fear?)M - MeansHow do we actually follow Jesus and learn to be like him? What steps can I take?Spiritual Disciplines (non-exhaustive)- Reading/Studying the Bible- Prayer- Fasting- Worship- Silence and Solitude- Serving and Generosity- SimplicitySo will you accept His invitation? Will you say yes to whole-life, all-in discipleship to Jesus today?
Discipleship to Jesus includes both a clarification of your calling AND a formation of your character. V-I-M(vision, intention, means)V - VisionDo you have a vision for Jesus and His Kingdom? Are you bought in?Do you believe who Jesus says he is?Do you believe that He is worthy to be followed?Do you believe that he is worth being ALL IN for?I - IntentionHave you intentionally made the decision to follow Jesus?If not, what is holding you back? (Procrastination, busyness, fear?)M - MeansHow do we actually follow Jesus and learn to be like him? What steps can I take?Spiritual Disciplines (non-exhaustive)- Reading/Studying the Bible- Prayer- Fasting- Worship- Silence and Solitude- Serving and Generosity- SimplicitySo will you accept His invitation? Will you say yes to whole-life, all-in discipleship to Jesus today?
Repent = To turn around
Do you believe that Heaven is better than this world?
Kingdom of God: Where God is present and His people are doing His will.
Who is Jesus to you? Do you truly believe that He is good news?
NBA Player Zaza Pachulia: "Nothing easy! Nothing easy!"
Repent = To turn around
Do you believe that Heaven is better than this world?
Kingdom of God: Where God is present and His people are doing His will.
Who is Jesus to you? Do you truly believe that He is good news?
NBA Player Zaza Pachulia: "Nothing easy! Nothing easy!"
To faithfully minister the gospel we must develop a culture of care in our churches by equipping our members to offers sinners a better Savior, and sufferers a better story.
To faithfully minister the gospel we must develop a culture of care in our churches by equipping our members to offers sinners a better Savior, and sufferers a better story.
When the days are long and the work is hard- how do we persevere, how do we survive? During our first two years in Taiwan, when we met challenge after challenge, and difficulty after difficulty, Paul was my role model. I learned so many precious lessons from Paul about how to keep on keeping on.
Ministry Survival Lessons Remember that ministry is done by faith The joy of the Lord is your strength Measure all things with an eternal perspective Preach the gospel often especially ___ _______
In and Around VS Up and Out
Continuing in our mission series this week, we’re asking the big question of “how do we prepare or help others prepare for the field?” There are many good answers and important skills to learn to help us in the path to glorifying the Lord. But there is only one thing that is truly paramount. Come! Let us learn more of the call that the Lord has for each of us, whether we go or we send, so that we may faithfully offer our lives to Him.
In and Around VS Up and Out
Continuing in our mission series this week, we’re asking the big question of “how do we prepare or help others prepare for the field?” There are many good answers and important skills to learn to help us in the path to glorifying the Lord. But there is only one thing that is truly paramount. Come! Let us learn more of the call that the Lord has for each of us, whether we go or we send, so that we may faithfully offer our lives to Him.
Paul, on that road to Damascus, asked Jesus two questions, "Who are you?" and "What do you want me to do?" And Jesus answered, "I am the Lord your God.” Jesus is calling Paul into a life of world mission to the gentiles. Being a transformed man, this one man with a renewed mind wants to glorify God above everthing else by becoming a blessing to the nations. In Sunday's message, we want to understand a CALL that God has uniquely placed in our lives - To be a blessing to the Nations!
Paul, on that road to Damascus, asked Jesus two questions, "Who are you?" and "What do you want me to do?" And Jesus answered, "I am the Lord your God.” Jesus is calling Paul into a life of world mission to the gentiles. Being a transformed man, this one man with a renewed mind wants to glorify God above everthing else by becoming a blessing to the nations. In Sunday's message, we want to understand a CALL that God has uniquely placed in our lives - To be a blessing to the Nations!
“Do you know the way?” Most of us some time in our lives have asked or been asked that exact question. Whether traveling or at a shopping mall we have approached or been approached by a random person for directions. This question applies not just for navigating streets but also in life. Like “Do you know the way to get into a top 10 college?” “Do you know the way to parent better?” And even in the Bible, people asked, “Do you know the way to eternal life?” Jesus said, “I am the Way.” Join us this Sunday as we conclude our series “This is the Way!” based on 1 John. Come and see the freeing truth that Jesus is Life.
“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” (1 John 5:11)
The assurance of eternal life in Jesus frees us to live with a mindset that death is “not that bad.”
“Christians who do the most for this present world are those who think most of the next. Aim at heaven and you’ll get earth ‘thrown in’; aim at earth and you’ll get neither.” (C.S. Lewis)
“Do you know the way?” Most of us some time in our lives have asked or been asked that exact question. Whether traveling or at a shopping mall we have approached or been approached by a random person for directions. This question applies not just for navigating streets but also in life. Like “Do you know the way to get into a top 10 college?” “Do you know the way to parent better?” And even in the Bible, people asked, “Do you know the way to eternal life?” Jesus said, “I am the Way.” Join us this Sunday as we conclude our series “This is the Way!” based on 1 John. Come and see the freeing truth that Jesus is Life.
“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” (1 John 5:11)
The assurance of eternal life in Jesus frees us to live with a mindset that death is “not that bad.”
“Christians who do the most for this present world are those who think most of the next. Aim at heaven and you’ll get earth ‘thrown in’; aim at earth and you’ll get neither.” (C.S. Lewis)
Did you know that the word "suffering" is mentioned mret in 1 Peter than any other books in the Bible? Peter also says to hold on to our heavenly hopes and repeatedly check the condition of our hearts, and a way of life, that only makes sense if we are absolutely sure that we will have a great reward in heaven. So in today's message, he admonishes us to finish well during tough times.
Did you know that the word "suffering" is mentioned mret in 1 Peter than any other books in the Bible? Peter also says to hold on to our heavenly hopes and repeatedly check the condition of our hearts, and a way of life, that only makes sense if we are absolutely sure that we will have a great reward in heaven. So in today's message, he admonishes us to finish well during tough times.
Context of 1 Peter:What did this mean to the original hearers of this?What was their background?Who wrote it? When? Why?Themes of 1 Peter:Tough times - persecution and sufferingLooking back - connects to the history of Israel.Look forward - reminding them of the big picture of God certain futureLook through 1 Peter1:3-9:Start (vs 3-5) Look forward to a great inheritance & salvationMain point (vs 6) Tough Times are a reality “grief for a little while “Ends (vs 7-9) Tough faith = genuine faith refined like gold & ultimate joy1. We need a bigger storyLooking forward and looking back at what God has done and will do salvation2. We need hard times?Because everything gets stripped away and it’s just you and God?We have to contend for our faithHe moves us our relationship out of being transactional = one dimensional3. We need deep resilient tough faithPeter “your faith is proven genuine” & “you will receive honor“What are the top two things in your life that concern you the most?
Context of 1 Peter:What did this mean to the original hearers of this?What was their background?Who wrote it? When? Why?Themes of 1 Peter:Tough times - persecution and sufferingLooking back - connects to the history of Israel.Look forward - reminding them of the big picture of God certain futureLook through 1 Peter1:3-9:Start (vs 3-5) Look forward to a great inheritance & salvationMain point (vs 6) Tough Times are a reality “grief for a little while “Ends (vs 7-9) Tough faith = genuine faith refined like gold & ultimate joy1. We need a bigger storyLooking forward and looking back at what God has done and will do salvation2. We need hard times?Because everything gets stripped away and it’s just you and God?We have to contend for our faithHe moves us our relationship out of being transactional = one dimensional3. We need deep resilient tough faithPeter “your faith is proven genuine” & “you will receive honor“What are the top two things in your life that concern you the most?
Due to technical difficulties, the entirety of the message is not available.Who is God making His people to be? For the Israelites in the book of Exodus, we see God forming a people for Himself - one that rests securely in the presence of the Father, and is set apart for the purpose of reflecting his goodness and generosity to the nations. But how does God seek to accomplish this? Join us this Sunday as Caitlyn finishes our series “God’s Blueprint for Transformation” and teaches us how through the importance of sabbath rest as necessary fuel for living a generous life.
Due to technical difficulties, the entirety of the message is not available.Who is God making His people to be? For the Israelites in the book of Exodus, we see God forming a people for Himself - one that rests securely in the presence of the Father, and is set apart for the purpose of reflecting his goodness and generosity to the nations. But how does God seek to accomplish this? Join us this Sunday as Caitlyn finishes our series “God’s Blueprint for Transformation” and teaches us how through the importance of sabbath rest as necessary fuel for living a generous life.
One of the most important aspects in a relationship is to understand each other's intentions. God's reasoning to build the Tabernacle was to dwell among His people. And the only place that God will meet with His people was in the person of Jesus Christ at the "Mercy Seat" - God's Blueprint for 'Salvation!' God carfully drew up the design to commune with mankind becasue the blood of the sacrifices were sprinkled upon (Hilasterion) symbolizing Jesus is the only way, the truth and the life. In today's message by becoming a transformed people of God, we are to not only remember and but to respond to the deeper meaning of the "Mercy Seat" God's intention for salvation to the World!
One of the most important aspects in a relationship is to understand each other's intentions. God's reasoning to build the Tabernacle was to dwell among His people. And the only place that God will meet with His people was in the person of Jesus Christ at the "Mercy Seat" - God's Blueprint for 'Salvation!' God carfully drew up the design to commune with mankind becasue the blood of the sacrifices were sprinkled upon (Hilasterion) symbolizing Jesus is the only way, the truth and the life. In today's message by becoming a transformed people of God, we are to not only remember and but to respond to the deeper meaning of the "Mercy Seat" God's intention for salvation to the World!
In 1968, Frank Sinatra recorded one of the most iconic songs in America, "I Did It My Way" demonstrating he wanted to do life his way! The children of Israel after only a few weeks of the Exodus were struggling with the idea of an "Invisible God." They experienced the 10 plagues, saw the miracles as they crossed the Red Sea, experienced the pillar of cloud and pillar of fire, but when God seemed silent, just like Sinatra's song, they wanted religion their way. They built the golden calf. God hurries Moses down from Mt. Sinai to tell the Israelites that they were a bunch of "stiff-necked people!"
In 1968, Frank Sinatra recorded one of the most iconic songs in America, "I Did It My Way" demonstrating he wanted to do life his way! The children of Israel after only a few weeks of the Exodus were struggling with the idea of an "Invisible God." They experienced the 10 plagues, saw the miracles as they crossed the Red Sea, experienced the pillar of cloud and pillar of fire, but when God seemed silent, just like Sinatra's song, they wanted religion their way. They built the golden calf. God hurries Moses down from Mt. Sinai to tell the Israelites that they were a bunch of "stiff-necked people!"
Many of us have a “love-hate” relationship with rules. Try to imagine the world without them. Life would be so crazy and chaotic. But honestly speaking, sometimes we feel rules restrict our freedom and fun. Who hasn’t thought this at one time or another? “Rules are made to be broken.” This week we will explore Exodus 20 and see the Ten Commandments that God gave the Israelites. The Ten Commandments are more than a list of do’s and don’ts, but about a loving God giving His people an identity. God’s Blueprint for Transformation is to honor Him and the dignity of humans who are made “in our image”.“I, the Lord your God…..showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.” (Exodus 20:5-6)
Many of us have a “love-hate” relationship with rules. Try to imagine the world without them. Life would be so crazy and chaotic. But honestly speaking, sometimes we feel rules restrict our freedom and fun. Who hasn’t thought this at one time or another? “Rules are made to be broken.” This week we will explore Exodus 20 and see the Ten Commandments that God gave the Israelites. The Ten Commandments are more than a list of do’s and don’ts, but about a loving God giving His people an identity. God’s Blueprint for Transformation is to honor Him and the dignity of humans who are made “in our image”.“I, the Lord your God…..showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.” (Exodus 20:5-6)
Believe it or not, God has a purpose for us. When a couple fall in love and decide to get married, they often pledge to be together “till death do we part.” After the ceremony the married couple begins a lifelong sharing of a common purpose. Likewise God loves us dearly and wants to share His purpose with us. This week in our sermon series God’s Blueprint for Transformation, God told Moses what He wanted for the Israelites in Exodus 19. This Sunday come and hear what God wants for us to be Histransformed people. Like the Israelites, like a wedding couple, will you be able to say, “I do”? “Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.” (Exodus 19:5)
Believe it or not, God has a purpose for us. When a couple fall in love and decide to get married, they often pledge to be together “till death do we part.” After the ceremony the married couple begins a lifelong sharing of a common purpose. Likewise God loves us dearly and wants to share His purpose with us. This week in our sermon series God’s Blueprint for Transformation, God told Moses what He wanted for the Israelites in Exodus 19. This Sunday come and hear what God wants for us to be Histransformed people. Like the Israelites, like a wedding couple, will you be able to say, “I do”? “Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.” (Exodus 19:5)
2022 God sightingsFinancesNew way to give - QR codeProperty Updates and ImprovementsMission Givings
2022 God sightingsFinancesNew way to give - QR codeProperty Updates and ImprovementsMission Givings
Main Idea:God’s Blueprint for Transformation is to be still to know that God is in control.Extra Credit:1. Reflection Question: Can you give up control to God? To let go and allow God be God?2. Take time this week to examine your life to identify what you are worried about, anxious over or even afraid of. And in prayer tell God that you will be still specifically over this matter and let him be God. See what happens, and share with someone later your story of giving up control to God.
Main Idea:God’s Blueprint for Transformation is to be still to know that God is in control.Extra Credit:1. Reflection Question: Can you give up control to God? To let go and allow God be God?2. Take time this week to examine your life to identify what you are worried about, anxious over or even afraid of. And in prayer tell God that you will be still specifically over this matter and let him be God. See what happens, and share with someone later your story of giving up control to God.
Loving God with all your heart. Is it possible for God to come near to you? Daily? Weekly? What would you do if you could hear from God clearly? Would you rearrange your day to spend time with HIM?We will be looking at practices this week that allow us to develop a vibrant and affectionate relationship with the God of creation.
Loving God with all your heart. Is it possible for God to come near to you? Daily? Weekly? What would you do if you could hear from God clearly? Would you rearrange your day to spend time with HIM?We will be looking at practices this week that allow us to develop a vibrant and affectionate relationship with the God of creation.
- Spiritually “minded” is our high calling2. Spiritually “minded” is a transformative processSpiritual DisciplinesFastingPrayerSilence SolitudeGivingWorship CelebrationSabbath (rest)StudyServiceSubmissionSimplicitySpiritual Practices Meditation Physical Reminders Study Intentional Relationship
- Spiritually “minded” is our high calling2. Spiritually “minded” is a transformative processSpiritual DisciplinesFastingPrayerSilence SolitudeGivingWorship CelebrationSabbath (rest)StudyServiceSubmissionSimplicitySpiritual Practices Meditation Physical Reminders Study Intentional Relationship
Our lastest edition of #weareCLC is a pause in time to appreciate Frank Chow. Frank has been our primary sound engineer since the Pandemic started and he designed our internet infrasture at our new place. Listen as Laura Ho teases out some of the details of his service and why he does it.
Our lastest edition of #weareCLC is a pause in time to appreciate Frank Chow. Frank has been our primary sound engineer since the Pandemic started and he designed our internet infrasture at our new place. Listen as Laura Ho teases out some of the details of his service and why he does it.
Zacchaeus. We all want to belong, because we have been created for community. But unfortunately people are more likely to be exclusive rather than inclusive.
Zacchaeus the tax collector was one who wanted to belong, but he was instead excluded by his own people.
- As an outcast, Zacchaeus desperately wanted to see Jesus. (v.2-4)
- Jesus sees the marginalized and his presense brings great joy. (v.5-6)
- Jesus came to "seek and save the lost" like Zacchaeus. (v.9-10)
Who in your midst do you need to see? Maybe it is even you. Come to Jesus, and if you are desperate, he will see you. Being seen brings joy to the unseen.
Are you desperately seeking Jesus? What does a life desperate for Jesus even look like? Join us this Sunday as Caitlyn Shelnutt continues our sermon series by looking at the story of the forgiven woman in Luke 7, and reminds us of God’s boundless grace and unconditional love!
The woman with the jar of perfume. Last week we heard the story of a man who was desperately seeking life, but could not let go of the idols of his heart in order to make room for Jesus. We learned that we can’t desperately seek after Jesus if we’re desperately seeking after other things. This week we continue the series with the story of the sinful woman who poured a jar of expensive perfume and wiped Jesus’ feet with her tears. Through her actions, we see a person who has experienced the overwhelming gift of forgiveness and is now overflowing with love and worship for Jesus… for whoever has been forgiven much, loves much. It’s not about how much we do or do not sin. It’s about how much we recognize our sin. And the more we recognize our own sin and need for a Savior, the more we are stirred to great love and gratitude for Him and what He has done! "
The rich young ruler. I’ll be tackling why it’s often hard for us to desperately seek after Jesus. We know it’s right or good in our heads, but for some reason there’s a disconnect when we go to live our lives. We find ourselves not desperately seeking Jesus but seeking other things, often desperately. In the case of the rich young ruler, Jesus hit the nail on the head and identified the idol of his heart - his possessions, or rather the security and self-sufficiency that his possessions provided him. This was the thing that was keeping him from following Jesus wholeheartedly and being saved (entering into the kingdom). Now the message here is not a works-based ticket to heaven. Of course, salvation and more specifically justification is a free gift of God that we could not earn. But it does require a repentance and turning from our ways and the idols of our hearts in order to allow Jesus to be Lord over all aspects of our lives.
The bleeding woman deonstrated a faith that:
-
Takes risks.
-
Gets Jesus' complete attention.
-
Is not perfect.
-
Brings a full healing
Are you desperately seeking healing? Do you want to be like this woman? Desperate faith receives scandalous grace.
Intro series: Are you Desparate? for Jesus? In this new chapter for our church, we will continue to focus on growing our faith, and pursuing our mission; we must see our church as:
-
An Emergency Room. We all come "sick." We must have a sense of urgency to get well, even desperation to pursue God. What are you desperate for?
-
Lights. We are on the move seeking the desperate among us. What are you seeking?
3 A Treasure Chest, where Jesus is the treasure. What is your treasure? Jesus came to dwell among us, and invites us to be Christ-like.
As this is our last worship service at SDA in Oakland, it is a very special service.
Please enjoy the musical worship, slideshow, personal stories, and communion of this last SDA service. AND don't forget to join us next week as we start a new chapter in our church's life.
As this is our last worship service at SDA in Oakland, it is a very special service.
Please enjoy the musical worship, slideshow, personal stories, and communion of this last SDA service. AND don't forget to join us next week as we start a new chapter in our church's life.
Throughout the Bible, God often uses strange and unlikely means to achieve His goals. Turning water into wine, using his own saliva to open the eyes of a blind person, and marching around the walls of Jericho? As we continue our sermon series - "Moving Forward" we want to REMEMBER that things might be hard for us, but nothing is ever too hard for God. In OBDIENCE we fight our battles with prayers and faith. Lastly, when in doubt or fear we should WORSHIP the God who created the heaven and the earth!
Throughout the Bible, God often uses strange and unlikely means to achieve His goals. Turning water into wine, using his own saliva to open the eyes of a blind person, and marching around the walls of Jericho? As we continue our sermon series - "Moving Forward" we want to REMEMBER that things might be hard for us, but nothing is ever too hard for God. In OBDIENCE we fight our battles with prayers and faith. Lastly, when in doubt or fear we should WORSHIP the God who created the heaven and the earth!
We belong to the greatest company called the CHURCH and it has offices worldwide. Our products are universal and compare to other companies, we get great benefit packages and have excellent retirement plan. We are in a sermon series called, "Better Together - Is Church a Hobby?" And it's a recurring question that is still asked today? Why do we need the Church? Today we are going to navigate through the 'Kitchen' as God reveals why church community and breaking bread together is one of the benefits to this company. So, bring your utensils and a hungry appetite as God reveals his truth through Acts 2.
We belong to the greatest company called the CHURCH and it has offices worldwide. Our products are universal and compare to other companies, we get great benefit packages and have excellent retirement plan. We are in a sermon series called, "Better Together - Is Church a Hobby?" And it's a recurring question that is still asked today? Why do we need the Church? Today we are going to navigate through the 'Kitchen' as God reveals why church community and breaking bread together is one of the benefits to this company. So, bring your utensils and a hungry appetite as God reveals his truth through Acts 2.
The church in Crete was operating under the rules of corrupt culture rather than the Kingdom of God
What cultural values keep you from experiencing Jesus?
The church in Crete was operating under the rules of corrupt culture rather than the Kingdom of God
What cultural values keep you from experiencing Jesus?
We often have heard "do as I say, not as I do." But really both are important; both taught and caught. Paul emphasizes this in Titus 2. Teach a godly way to live: 1. It really matters. (v.1-10), 2. Just say "no"! (v.12), 3. Only by the Grace of Jesus. (v.14). Take home idea: The Christian life takes a village.
We often have heard "do as I say, not as I do." But really both are important; both taught and caught. Paul emphasizes this in Titus 2. Teach a godly way to live: 1. It really matters. (v.1-10), 2. Just say "no"! (v.12), 3. Only by the Grace of Jesus. (v.14). Take home idea: The Christian life takes a village.
How can we discern between a true and a false leader? How should we respond when corrupt teachers infiltrate the church? Come join us this Sunday as Caitlyn Shelnutt continues our Titus Series and teaches us the importance of being discerners and doers of God’s Word in a world where false teachers persist.
How can we discern between a true and a false leader? How should we respond when corrupt teachers infiltrate the church? Come join us this Sunday as Caitlyn Shelnutt continues our Titus Series and teaches us the importance of being discerners and doers of God’s Word in a world where false teachers persist.
"To handle yourself use your head, but to handle others, use your heart." Eleanor Roosevelt
Vs. 7 As stewards, we must be blameless a) Not quick-willed b) Not quick-tempered c) Not given to wine d) not given to violence e) Not greedy for money.
"To handle yourself use your head, but to handle others, use your heart." Eleanor Roosevelt
Vs. 7 As stewards, we must be blameless a) Not quick-willed b) Not quick-tempered c) Not given to wine d) not given to violence e) Not greedy for money.
Titus is a "Godly Playbook" for living in a corrupt culture
1) What did that mean to the original audience? 2) What was Crete like? 3) what was the church like?
What's Paul's Godly "Playbook"?
Titus is a "Godly Playbook" for living in a corrupt culture
1) What did that mean to the original audience? 2) What was Crete like? 3) what was the church like?
What's Paul's Godly "Playbook"?
Hurry sickness: A continuous struggle to accomplish or achieve more and more things or participate in more and more events in less time.
Hurry sickness diagnostic: Which of the following apply to you?
Irritability. Restlessness. Emotional numbness.
Out-of-order priorities. Lack of care for your body.
Escapist behaviors. Isolation.
Adapted from "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry"
What to know about Sabbath? - Time is holy - Rest is connected to God’s presence. - Sabbath restores you - Sabbath re-forms you
Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. (Exodus 20:8-10a)
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)
The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. (Mark 2:27)
God is present and seated on the throne.
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” 4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. (Isaiah 6:1-4)
God may give you a difficult calling.
He said, “Go and tell this people: “‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ 10 Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.” (Isaiah 6:9-10)
God is present in the stump.
But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land. (Isaiah 6: 13b)
A stump can be a means of God’s grace.
How do you feel when your expectations are not met?
How do you respond when your expectations are not met?
Jesus doesn't always come in the way we expect, but he always comes in the way that we need
How do you feel when your expectations are not met?
How do you respond when your expectations are not met?
Jesus doesn't always come in the way we expect, but he always comes in the way that we need
Worship - Caitlyn Lim Shelnutt Community Life - Denny Lai Message Speaker - Pastor Calvin Yim Communion - Pastor Eric Venable
"The Great Physician" Luke 4:14-30 and others If we are honest about it, none of us are perfect. Matter of fact, we're all broken in some way. Because of that God sent his son Jesus to be our doctor, to mend us back to wholeness. But how we want to be healed may not line up with God's plan causing us to be disappointed or even give up on God.
For that reason, it helps to understand: 1. Jesus is always compassionate in our suffering. (Matthew 9:35-36) 2. Jesus is purposeful in his healing. (Luke 4:14-30) 3. Where we are short-sighted, Jesus has the endgame in mind. (Luke 17:11-19)
"Jesus the Healer is the key that opens the gates of Heaven."
If we are honest about it, none of us are perfect. Matter of fact, we're all broken in some way. Because of that God sent his son Jesus to be our doctor, to mend us back to wholeness. But how we want to be healed may not line up with God's plan causing us to be disappointed or even give up on God. For that reason it helps to understand:
- Jesus is always compassionate in our suffering.(Matthew 9:35-36)
- Jesus is purposeful in his healing. (Luke 4:14-30)
- Where we are short-sighted, Jesus has the endgame in mind. (Luke 17:11-19)
"Jesus the Healer is the key that opens the gates of Heaven."
If we are honest about it, none of us are perfect. Matter of fact, we're all broken in some way. Because of that God sent his son Jesus to be our doctor, to mend us back to wholeness. But how we want to be healed may not line up with God's plan causing us to be disappointed or even give up on God. For that reason it helps to understand:
- Jesus is always compassionate in our suffering.(Matthew 9:35-36)
- Jesus is purposeful in his healing. (Luke 4:14-30)
- Where we are short-sighted, Jesus has the endgame in mind. (Luke 17:11-19)
"Jesus the Healer is the key that opens the gates of Heaven."
Worship - Caitlyn Lim Shelnutt Community Life - Denny Lai Message Speaker - Pastor Calvin Yim Communion - Pastor Eric Venable
"The Great Physician" Luke 4:14-30 and others If we are honest about it, none of us are perfect. Matter of fact, we're all broken in some way. Because of that God sent his son Jesus to be our doctor, to mend us back to wholeness. But how we want to be healed may not line up with God's plan causing us to be disappointed or even give up on God.
For that reason, it helps to understand: 1. Jesus is always compassionate in our suffering. (Matthew 9:35-36) 2. Jesus is purposeful in his healing. (Luke 4:14-30) 3. Where we are short-sighted, Jesus has the endgame in mind. (Luke 17:11-19)
"Jesus the Healer is the key that opens the gates of Heaven."
The book of Hebrews repeatedly refers to Jesus as our Great High Priest, but what does this even mean and why is it relevant for us today?
Through Jesus, we now have full access to unbroken, intimate communion with God.
We all need a great High Priest. Will you let Jesus be yours today?
The book of Hebrews repeatedly refers to Jesus as our Great High Priest, but what does this even mean and why is it relevant for us today?
Through Jesus, we now have full access to unbroken, intimate communion with God.
We all need a great High Priest. Will you let Jesus be yours today?
How we perceive someone often determines our attitude and treatment towards that person. Many of us see Jesus as God, but is he more than just someone we ask stuff from, give thanks to before we eat, or celebrate only when Christmas comes around? Jesus is not one dimensional. Not just print on a Bible page, but much more. John 10:11 Jesus declared, "I am the good shepherd." Does this mean anything to you?
Applying CLC's mission statement to Psalm 23 , using the characteristics of a good shepherd: 1. Loving God is a daily, everyday relationship (v.1-4) 2. Loving People includes necessary hospitality (v.5) 3. Serving the World must lead to inviting others to come live in the Lord's house forever (v.6).
Jesus cannot be an afterthought, but a vital part of our lives. Jesus the Good Shepherd is a daily, necessary, "cleanser".
How we perceive someone often determines our attitude and treatment towards that person. Many of us see Jesus as God, but is he more than just someone we ask stuff from, give thanks to before we eat, or celebrate only when Christmas comes around? Jesus is not one dimensional. Not just print on a Bible page, but much more. John 10:11 Jesus declared, "I am the good shepherd." Does this mean anything to you?
Applying CLC's mission statement to Psalm 23 , using the characteristics of a good shepherd: 1. Loving God is a daily, everyday relationship (v.1-4) 2. Loving People includes necessary hospitality (v.5) 3. Serving the World must lead to inviting others to come live in the Lord's house forever (v.6).
Jesus cannot be an afterthought, but a vital part of our lives. Jesus the Good Shepherd is a daily, necessary, "cleanser".
Board of Directors, Jared Lucas along with two other members of the Board, David Lew and Collin Tomikawa, walk us through highlights of last year and some of the things to come this year. The Chin family also introduces a video about CLC's 100th anniversary in July.
How we perceive someone often determines our attitude and treatment towards that person. Many of us see Jesus as God, but is he more than just someone we ask stuff from, give thanks to before we eat, or celebrate only when Christmas comes around? Jesus is not one dimensional. Not just print on a Bible page, but much more. John 10:11 Jesus declared, "I am the good shepherd." Does this mean anything to you?
Applying CLC's mission statement to Psalm 23 , using the characteristics of a good shepherd: 1. Loving God is a daily, everyday relationship (v.1-4) 2. Loving People includes necessary hospitality (v.5) 3. Serving the World must lead to inviting others to come live in the Lord's house forever (v.6).
Jesus cannot be an afterthought, but a vital part of our lives. Jesus the Good Shepherd is a daily, necessary, "cleanser".
How we perceive someone often determines our attitude and treatment towards that person. Many of us see Jesus as God, but is he more than just someone we ask stuff from, give thanks to before we eat, or celebrate only when Christmas comes around? Jesus is not one dimensional. Not just print on a Bible page, but much more. John 10:11 Jesus declared, "I am the good shepherd." Does this mean anything to you?
Applying CLC's mission statement to Psalm 23 , using the characteristics of a good shepherd: 1. Loving God is a daily, everyday relationship (v.1-4) 2. Loving People includes necessary hospitality (v.5) 3. Serving the World must lead to inviting others to come live in the Lord's house forever (v.6).
Jesus cannot be an afterthought, but a vital part of our lives. Jesus the Good Shepherd is a daily, necessary, "cleanser".
"A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety" Aesop...Nevertheless, we worry and fret and agonize. In fact, human beings are the only one of God's creation that are anxious and become overly concerned. As we conclude in our sermon series, "Upside Down" living. .Jesus illustrates why worrying is Unreasonable, Unnatural, Unhealthy, and Unnecessary. And teaches us to, 'Never worry about anything by seeking the Kingdom of God" One way to conquer a passion is by focusing on a greater passion. Focusing on earthly matters like riches and basic needs will always breed worry and anxiety but focusing on eternal matters delivers us from those worries and bring God's peace. So, would you join me this morning as Jesus command us, "Do not worry about anything!"
Praying & Fasting (spiritual disciplines / investing in your time with God)
A Life and character in the kingdom of God
In the sermon on the mount, Jesus correlates our treasure and hearts. He says straightforward “You can’t serve both God and money". Money is a terrible master that will deaden our relationship with God. God’s plan is always been for His people to be hold money in a generous way. This is the path to a close walk with the our heavenly father and a much better life story.
In the sermon on the mount, Jesus correlates our treasure and hearts. He says straightforward “You can’t serve both God and money". Money is a terrible master that will deaden our relationship with God. God’s plan is always been for His people to be hold money in a generous way. This is the path to a close walk with the our heavenly father and a much better life story.
In the sermon on the mount, Jesus correlates our treasure and hearts. He says straightforward “You can’t serve both God and money". Money is a terrible master that will deaden our relationship with God. God’s plan is always been for His people to be hold money in a generous way. This is the path to a close walk with the our heavenly father and a much better life story.
A harsh perspective about life goes like this: "Life is hard, then you die." In our lifetime there's enough ordinary challenges that keep us struggling. You would think not doing unusual and extraordinary things would be justified and okay. But in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us exactly that, to go beyond the norm.
In Matthew 5:38-48 Jesus gives us 3 unthinkables: 1. Service, not vengeance (v.39-42) 2. Love your enemy as your neighbor (v.44-47) 3. Be perfect in love (v.48)
Challenge: In love Jesus did the unthinkable for us, so can we do unthinkables for him?
A harsh perspective about life goes like this: "Life is hard, then you die." In our lifetime there's enough ordinary challenges that keep us struggling. You would think not doing unusual and extraordinary things would be justified and okay. But in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us exactly that, to go beyond the norm.
In Matthew 5:38-48 Jesus gives us 3 unthinkables: 1. Service, not vengeance (v.39-42) 2. Love your enemy as your neighbor (v.44-47) 3. Be perfect in love (v.48)
Challenge: In love Jesus did the unthinkable for us, so can we do unthinkables for him?
A harsh perspective about life goes like this: "Life is hard, then you die." In our lifetime there's enough ordinary challenges that keep us struggling. You would think not doing unusual and extraordinary things would be justified and okay. But in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us exactly that, to go beyond the norm.
In Matthew 5:38-48 Jesus gives us 3 unthinkables: 1. Service, not vengeance (v.39-42) 2. Love your enemy as your neighbor (v.44-47) 3. Be perfect in love (v.48)
Challenge: In love Jesus did the unthinkable for us, so can we do unthinkables for him?
A harsh perspective about life goes like this: "Life is hard, then you die." In our lifetime there's enough ordinary challenges that keep us struggling. You would think not doing unusual and extraordinary things would be justified and okay. But in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us exactly that, to go beyond the norm.
In Matthew 5:38-48 Jesus gives us 3 unthinkables: 1. Service, not vengeance (v.39-42) 2. Love your enemy as your neighbor (v.44-47) 3. Be perfect in love (v.48)
Challenge: In love Jesus did the unthinkable for us, so can we do unthinkables for him?
A harsh perspective about life goes like this: "Life is hard, then you die." In our lifetime there's enough ordinary challenges that keep us struggling. You would think not doing unusual and extraordinary things would be justified and okay. But in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us exactly that, to go beyond the norm.
In Matthew 5:38-48 Jesus gives us 3 unthinkables: 1. Service, not vengeance (v.39-42) 2. Love your enemy as your neighbor (v.44-47) 3. Be perfect in love (v.48)
Challenge: In love Jesus did the unthinkable for us, so can we do unthinkables for him?
Oaths (words, meaning what we say, integrity)
Our trustworthiness paves the way for the people to trust God and the Gospel
Don't Murder! Realistically not many of us will ever disobey this command, but Jesus takes this to another level, telling us to be mindful of the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law. To be self-aware of how we handle our anger specifically. That to think evil thoughts about someone, we have in some degree committed a crime against the other person. Instead Jesus calls us to be peacemakers in our relationships, be a uniter and not a divider. From our passage Jesus tells us: 1. Anger is the same as murder, and subject to judgment. 2. Have self-awareness in our relationships. Do we unite or do we divide? 3. Pursue Shalom (peace) in our community and world by serving others. Challenge: Being a peacemaker will be distinctive for the world to see, and for you to experience a more full and joyful well-being.
Worship =- Caitlyn Shelnutt Community Life - Denny Lai
weareclc - Gordon Wang
Speaker - Pastor Calvin Yim
"Thunk It, Done It!"
Don't Murder! Realistically not many of us will ever disobey this command, but Jesus takes this to another level, telling us to be mindful of the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law. To be self-aware of how we handle our anger specifically. That to think evil thoughts about someone, we have in some degree committed a crime against the other person. Instead Jesus calls us to be peacemakers in our relationships, be a uniter and not a divider. From our passage Jesus tells us: 1. Anger is the same as murder, and subject to judgment. 2. Have self-awareness in our relationships. Do we unite or do we divide? 3. Pursue Shalom (peace) in our community and world by serving others. Challenge: Being a peacemaker will be distinctive for the world to see, and for you to experience a more full and joyful well-being.
Worship =- Caitlyn Shelnutt Community Life - Denny Lai
weareclc - Gordon Wang
Speaker - Pastor Calvin Yim
"Thunk It, Done It!"
Don't Murder! Realistically not many of us will ever disobey this command, but Jesus takes this to another level, telling us to be mindful of the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law. To be self-aware of how we handle our anger specifically. That to think evil thoughts about someone, we have in some degree committed a crime against the other person. Instead Jesus calls us to be peacemakers in our relationships, be a uniter and not a divider. From our passage Jesus tells us: 1. Anger is the same as murder, and subject to judgment. 2. Have self-awareness in our relationships. Do we unite or do we divide? 3. Pursue Shalom (peace) in our community and world by serving others. Challenge: Being a peacemaker will be distinctive for the world to see, and for you to experience a more full and joyful well-being.
Don't Murder! Realistically not many of us will ever disobey this command, but Jesus takes this to another level, telling us to be mindful of the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law. To be self-aware of how we handle our anger specifically. That to think evil thoughts about someone, we have in some degree committed a crime against the other person. Instead Jesus calls us to be peacemakers in our relationships, be a uniter and not a divider. From our passage Jesus tells us: 1. Anger is the same as murder, and subject to judgment. 2. Have self-awareness in our relationships. Do we unite or do we divide? 3. Pursue Shalom (peace) in our community and world by serving others. Challenge: Being a peacemaker will be distinctive for the world to see, and for you to experience a more full and joyful well-being.
Imagine becoming a father for the first time. All the nervousness, worries and insecurities. Well Joseph was probably like that, and on top of that, throw in the stigma of having a child out of wedlock. Plus being poor, Joseph could not even have his wife Mary give birth in a decent place other than a dirty manger meant for feeding animals. No one in this world welcomed Joseph and his pregnant wife who was about to give birth. Yet into this simple beginning, God chose to send his son to earth. Jesus indeed was born in Bethlehem in a manger because there was no room at the inn. Will people now welcome him into their homes? More importantly will you invite Jesus into your life?
Imagine becoming a father for the first time. All the nervousness, worries and insecurities. Well Joseph was probably like that, and on top of that, throw in the stigma of having a child out of wedlock. Plus being poor, Joseph could not even have his wife Mary give birth in a decent place other than a dirty manger meant for feeding animals. No one in this world welcomed Joseph and his pregnant wife who was about to give birth. Yet into this simple beginning, God chose to send his son to earth. Jesus indeed was born in Bethlehem in a manger because there was no room at the inn. Will people now welcome him into their homes? More importantly will you invite Jesus into your life?
Imagine becoming a father for the first time. All the nervousness, worries and insecurities. Well Joseph was probably like that, and on top of that, throw in the stigma of having a child out of wedlock. Plus being poor, Joseph could not even have his wife Mary give birth in a decent place other than a dirty manger meant for feeding animals. No one in this world welcomed Joseph and his pregnant wife who was about to give birth. Yet into this simple beginning, God chose to send his son to earth. Jesus indeed was born in Bethlehem in a manger because there was no room at the inn. Will people now welcome him into their homes? More importantly will you invite Jesus into your life?
- The Announcement:
- Son of God
- King of kings
-
Kingdom that will never end!
-
The Question
- Mary is honest with God "how can this be?"
-
Mary understood immediately the ramifications
-
The Response The Angel's Response
- God's plan
- God's confirmation
- God's character
Mary's Response - I belong to the Lord - I will follow - I will go in your direction
- The Announcement:
- Son of God
- King of kings
-
Kingdom that will never end!
-
The Question
- Mary is honest with God "how can this be?"
-
Mary understood immediately the ramifications
-
The Response The Angel's Response
- God's plan
- God's confirmation
- God's character
Mary's Response - I belong to the Lord - I will follow - I will go in your direction
- The Announcement:
- Son of God
- King of kings
-
Kingdom that will never end!
-
The Question
- Mary is honest with God "how can this be?"
-
Mary understood immediately the ramifications
-
The Response The Angel's Response
- God's plan
- God's confirmation
- God's character
Mary's Response - I belong to the Lord - I will follow - I will go in your direction
This is the time of the years where we might be thinking, gifts, "Oh, it's a pain!" I have to give a gift to somebody. The Wise Men came bearing three gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were monetary and physical gifts. Their value is only good on this earth. But the gift, "A very special gift" given through Jesus Christ is monumental, revolutionary. A spiritual gift that is valuable in the court of heaven in time as well as in eternity. The wise men gifts were costly, expensive but it didn't cost them everything. Ahh. but this gift. A very special gift cost God everything. You see God left heaven and came to this earth and he humbled himself to be born in a manger and He poured himself out so that we could have eternal life. And in today's message we are going to unbox a gift that God gave. A reflection of His love and generosity. "For God so loved.....that He gave....."
This is the time of the years where we might be thinking, gifts, "Oh, it's a pain!" I have to give a gift to somebody. The Wise Men came bearing three gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were monetary and physical gifts. Their value is only good on this earth. But the gift, "A very special gift" given through Jesus Christ is monumental, revolutionary. A spiritual gift that is valuable in the court of heaven in time as well as in eternity. The wise men gifts were costly, expensive but it didn't cost them everything. Ahh. but this gift. A very special gift cost God everything. You see God left heaven and came to this earth and he humbled himself to be born in a manger and He poured himself out so that we could have eternal life. And in today's message we are going to unbox a gift that God gave. A reflection of His love and generosity. "For God so loved.....that He gave....."
This is the time of the years where we might be thinking, gifts, "Oh, it's a pain!" I have to give a gift to somebody. The Wise Men came bearing three gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were monetary and physical gifts. Their value is only good on this earth. But the gift, "A very special gift" given through Jesus Christ is monumental, revolutionary. A spiritual gift that is valuable in the court of heaven in time as well as in eternity. The wise men gifts were costly, expensive but it didn't cost them everything. Ahh. but this gift. A very special gift cost God everything. You see God left heaven and came to this earth and he humbled himself to be born in a manger and He poured himself out so that we could have eternal life. And in today's message we are going to unbox a gift that God gave. A reflection of His love and generosity. "For God so loved.....that He gave....."
This is the time of the years where we might be thinking, gifts, "Oh, it's a pain!" I have to give a gift to somebody. The Wise Men came bearing three gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were monetary and physical gifts. Their value is only good on this earth. But the gift, "A very special gift" given through Jesus Christ is monumental, revolutionary. A spiritual gift that is valuable in the court of heaven in time as well as in eternity. The wise men gifts were costly, expensive but it didn't cost them everything. Ahh. but this gift. A very special gift cost God everything. You see God left heaven and came to this earth and he humbled himself to be born in a manger and He poured himself out so that we could have eternal life. And in today's message we are going to unbox a gift that God gave. A reflection of His love and generosity. "For God so loved.....that He gave....."
This is the time of the years where we might be thinking, gifts, "Oh, it's a pain!" I have to give a gift to somebody. The Wise Men came bearing three gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were monetary and physical gifts. Their value is only good on this earth. But the gift, "A very special gift" given through Jesus Christ is monumental, revolutionary. A spiritual gift that is valuable in the court of heaven in time as well as in eternity. The wise men gifts were costly, expensive but it didn't cost them everything. Ahh. but this gift. A very special gift cost God everything. You see God left heaven and came to this earth and he humbled himself to be born in a manger and He poured himself out so that we could have eternal life. And in today's message we are going to unbox a gift that God gave. A reflection of His love and generosity. "For God so loved.....that He gave....."
There's something special about being simple. God seems to favor those who are. Like the shepherds. How may we see the shepherds as simple? The shepherds were: 1. Humble in occupation and lifestyle, 2. Spiritually Hungry to see Truth told to them without hesitation or doubt, and when they saw their Savior, 3. Honored God with their praise in response. Conclusion: Because Jesus came, the ending to our life stories (like the shepherds in Luke 2) is changed forever. That is hope that we all need.
In a picture perfect world, there are no let downs or discouragements. But we know this doesn't happen in real life. And that's why the Psalmist shouts out the secret of contentment in Ps.16:11 -" You have made known to me the path of life; and it was you that filled me with JOY when I was in your presence; with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Now, could it be that spiritual maturity is measured by what it takes to steal our JOY? I mean spiritual maturity is measured by what it takes to rob us of our joy. So then ask yourself, “How easily is my JOY taken away..and by what?” You see JOY and Happiness are different. Happiness depends on certain happenings while JOY is pervasive, it's deeper and constant. And in today's message, we are going to see how Apostle Paul was so joyous even though his circumstance wasn't so picturesque. The ART of JOY, one of the attitude that we express so little!
As followers of Jesus, we are invited to live the way Jesus lived, following in his steps, bringing a taste of the kingdom of heaven to earth in the places we live and work. Jesus was often moved with compassion when he encountered people in need. His compassion always moved him to action, and he stepped into the stories of hurting people and offered them healing, hope, and love. You are invited to be like him in this. Join us as Christine Ingebretson of Foster the City shares an inspiring message inviting you to consider how you might get engaged in loving and welcoming some of the most vulnerable neighbors in our community, precious kids and teens who find themselves in foster care.
If racism is a response to the ethnic difference that we see-then what we see really matters. And today we are going to see what matters to God so we can see what matters to us.
The Forever Foreigner stereotype has been a racist/xenophobic label that has been placed on many minority groups in this country by the majority for centuries, even if minority families have lived in this country for generations. Unfortunately Christians are not excused from having this bias against those they perceive as foreigners. That’s why the church has come to be known as the most segregated place on Sundays for a variety of reasons, some good and some bad.
Contrary to the world’s way, if you are a foreigner or know foreigners, be encouraged that God has a special place in his heart for you. Because 1. God cares for the foreigner. (Lev 19:33-34) 2. God defends the foreigner. (Deut 27:19) 3. God wants us to be foreigners. (John 15:19).
Take home idea: As followers of Jesus Christ, we are forever foreigners. Embrace that identity as good news. Interview with Russell Jeung: co-founder of #StopAAPIHate, author, professor of Asian American Ethnic Studies at CSUSF, and was recently voted one of the 100 most influential people of 2021 by Time Magazine
Kingdom Justice
-is led by Generosity -is founded in the image of God -is differentiated by Sacrifice -Trusts that Jesus brings Complete Justice
King David showed tremendous kindness and hospitality to Saul's grandson Mephibosheth, who was crippled in both legs. Mephibosheth was also his best friend Jonathan's son.
David demonstrated God's love in 3 ways: 1. Love that extends to even a friend of a friend (Jonathan), for the sake of that friend (v.1) 2. Kindness that brings extravagant generosity (v.7) 3.Restores and Gives a new identity, in the King's family = Eat at the table like a son (v. 11).
How do you respond to God's invitation to come to his table? Are you grateful for God's love that he considers you his son or daughter? Who can you show kindness to as a friend of a friend, for the sake of Jesus?
When we invite people to “come and see” Jesus, we also invite them to “come and see” our lives and how Jesus changes the way we live, act, and serve. Join us as Caitlyn teaches on John 13 and encourages us to love others just like Jesus did when he washed the disciples’ feet!
"Go and See" Come and See Series, pt. 5 Luke 10:1-10
Jesus sends them before him. The harvest is big. The "Person of Peace" is key 1. They open up the community 2. They are notorious 3. 60% of the time a miraculous event brings them to the surface
Come and See is our invitation Go and See is our motivation
What do I learn about how God loves people? How can I share this love with the people around me?
Q: How does God love people? He crosses barriers He sees people with compassion He offers us Living Water
Food is a tangible way to love people. Even Jesus, early in his ministry, fed the 5000. In this John 21 passage, Jesus showed his love for his disciples, providing a fire, food, and fellowship (like here at the church picnic). Even though Peter had denied him 3 times when Jesus was arrested, Jesus still loved Peter, serving him breakfast (hospitality). Jesus reminded Peter of his first calling to be a fisher of men, and restored him. Our challenge: Do you love Jesus? Then do as Jesus did, and ask others, "Have you eaten yet?" 1 John 4:19: "We love because He loved us first ."
Someone once said, "Gases and Love" can't be contained. You gotta let it out!. One of the most picturesque moment where God's Love is shown is when the Prodigal Father runs to his son cuz Mercy flows from compassion. When our heart is full of compassion we are moved to help the needy, to love the unlovely, to be gracious to the unworthy. Compassion gives us feet. And today, Jesus paints us a picture of God, being so full of compassion for His erring children, that He runs toward us when we make any movement toward Him.
In our new sermon series, "Come and See!" we want to navigate through the Scripture as Jesus himself invites his people to know who He is by giving them HOPE! He offers the most personal invitation to humanity – which is Himself. And Jesus did not turn crowds and individuals away. Far from being the life and soul of the party, Jesus was interested in those He came into contact with by meeting our deepest longings of the human heart and the darkest struggles that we confront. So, as Jesus invited....we are inviting all of you to Come and See what He continues to do, today!
Teacher Auntie Lynn tells a bit about missions and blends that with the current sermon series.
Missions of the past was about "going". Now it includes "coming".
How will the church adjust to these new realities?
Someone once said, 'Fill the fields, not just the pews.' What they were referring to was the age-old imperative for the church to win souls, train them up, only to send them out to win more people for Christ. The common term for this in the church today is "Mobilization." Today we will discuss how to ensure your church has a culture of mobilization that will fulfill it's calling to impact this world for Christ.
"Christians are called to "go and make disciples of all nations." What does it take to be a goer? How do I know where I am supposed to go? What can I do here and now? What can we learn from Abraham?"
Jonah 4:1-11 with focus on versus 10-11.
Jonah's journey is learning about what God cares about. God cares that we have compassion for the things HE has compassion for, i.e. people. He also cares that we are obedient to finish well.
Tired? Feeling overwhelmed and burnt out? Coming out of the pandemic and feeling disconnected from your faith, or from God? That’s ok. This Sunday we’ll be visiting Matthew 11:28-30 as we enter into the heart of Jesus that is “gentle and lowly” and discover the true rest that he freely gives us.
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30).
The Book of Ephesians was preparing the early church for the work of creating a whole new world that represented the Kingdom of God. As we leave our self-imposed hibernation due to the pandemic and returning to in-person gatherings as a church community, we need to refamiliarize ourselves with our God-given purpose that is greater than our own individual salvation.
Our mission at CLC is to make disciples who Love God, Love People, and Serve the World. Sounds good but how do we know we are doing it right?
Here are 3 ways to help us measure success, with help from insights in Ephesians: 1. We love God for God to be seen (Ephesians 3:14-19), application Spiritual Disciplines, 2. We love people for people to feel loved (Ephesians 5:21), application emotionally healthy relationships, and lastly 3. We serve the world for lives to be changed into the likeness of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:11-16), application Spiritual Gifts.
Big Idea: Let us together love God for God to be seen, love people for people to feel loved, and serve the world for lives to be changed.
The most important strength is the strength you need in the Lord or measure our Strength by how often we are on our knees!
Job 2:7, Zechariah 3:1, 2 Corinthians 11:3, John 10:10, 2 Corinthians 4:4, 1 Peter 5:9, 1 John 2:13, Revelations 12:11, Acts 4:23-31
Work and workers; employees and bosses; squirrels and chipmunks (well maybe not that last one) - what does Ephesians 6 say about how to work and how to relate to supervisors and employees at work? Join us as Scott Lynn and Yan Chin try help us all crack that nut.
God's umbrella of provision for children:
Some of us have been deeply hurt by our parents.
We honor our parents by following God and showing them the better way.
God's umbrella of provision for parents:
"Fathers,, do not frustrate your children with no-win scenarios. Take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master." Eph 6:4 The Message
Marriage and the gospel, what do they have to do with each other? Tune in for the answer, as Jared and Tiffany Lucas continue our sermon series in Ephesians with chapter 5.
Put away lying and put on truth
Put off aggravation and put on patience
Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger...
Guest Speaker, Janna Louie, from IV continues our Ephesians study with "Radical Belonging".
Join us for a special joint worship service with Church Without Walls to celebrate Pentecost Sunday and the partnership of our churches! Pastor Gary VanderPol and Caitlyn Lim will be co-teaching a message on the power of the Holy Spirit to grasp God’s love within the Church in order to overflow from the Church. Get ready to worship, fellowship, and take communion together in breakout rooms at the conclusion of service! See you there!
The gospel of Christ, working in tandem with the Holy Spirit, changes everything about our lives and how we see others. There's a saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover," meaning you cannot have an opinion of someone merely by just looking at them.
The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians telling of a whole new world, where differences, including race, should not separate people anymore, especially in the church. God's grace through Jesus Christ reconciled the racial divide between Jews and Gentiles. From Ephesians 2:11-15,
- Jesus is by his blood the circumcision for the uncircumcised (v.11-13),
- Jesus abolishes the law that excluded the "unclean" (v.15),
- Jesus is our peace (eirene, shalom) that brings wholeness to the world (v.14,15).
Main idea: God's grace through Jesus brings wholeness once again to God's creation broken apart by sin, including racial division reconciled by the blood of Jesus.
Application: start with proximity and learn through relationships with diverse people from yourself.
"Main Idea: God’s grace and love is an incomparable gift
What do you need to do to have a good relationship with God? Much less than you might think. God’s gift is salvation and there’s nothing you can or must do to earn it. That’s good news but... it goes against almost every instinct we have as humans and how most of life everyday. What if God’s incomparable gift of grace provided not only salvation but also freed you to experience God in every area of your life? "
What God has done for us, and now Paul begins to pray that we would have spiritual wisdom to know God's person. Prays for spiritual enlightenment to know God's plan. Prays for spiritual insight to know God's pleasure. (What God enjoys and what our value is to God.) and lastly, he prays for spiritual understanding to know God's power.
Bruce Kaneshiro, the chairman of the board, will announce the latest update in regards to the pastor search.
From scarcity and anxiety towards abundance and peace
You always have a reason for joy.
Reason for joy: God chose you
Reason for joy: You are a son or daughter of God
Reason for joy: We have been forgiven
Reason for joy: One day all things will be united in Christ Jesus
Scripture - John 20:19-23; Isaiah 58:8
When have you been traumatized?
God has a purpose on the other side of the trauma.
2021 Easter Service
Happy Easter, Christian Layman Church family, and friends.
The story of Jesus is the greatest story, it is the ultimate story. Christ’s big story gives life and hope to our smaller ones. We will walk you through the death and the resurrection of Christ using our own words. There will be four different presenters and each person will tell you one part of the story of Jesus and then reflect on what that means to them. Four different presenters, one unified story.
Worship Team - Caitlyn Lim, Josh Ko, Janet Song, Lauren Jiang, Matt Sitt, Gordon Yagisawa, Rachel Lee Community Life - Denny Lai Dramatized Readings and Sharing - Pastor Calvin Yim, Pastor Andrew Huang, Will Cheung, Deanna Wong
When Jesus said "Follow Me" to the disciples, they didn't envision following Jesus to the ends of the earth. Thomas to the West Indies, Mark to Alexandria, and Barnabas to Cyprus. But why...well Apostle Paul shared with the Galatians that as I'm in Christ I must preach to the gentiles. Well then, all those who are in Christ (believers) do we preach the gospel let alone willing to go the ends of the earth. In our last sermon of the "Follow Me" series, I want to share with you all that one key ingredient that made Paul and others set apart. The willingness to share with the gentiles and with the rest of the unreached world. That one key ingredient is "Compassion of Jesus Christ!"
"Anyone who claims to be a Christian yet is not an active member of a church may not actually be a follower of Christ at all." David Platt
Radical Christian community is good news, so share it with others.
Knowing and enjoying God in intimate communion. Before God calls us o a mission, He first calls us to communion
You care about making disciples of the entire world.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..."
You seek to witness to those around us about Jesus.
You help other believers in their faith
Prayer takes us on a journey of honest petition to peaceful surrender.
Prayer can't take us any where if we can't give up control.
Story: American Express had a commercial that had the slogan "Don't leave home without it." Intimating that the benefits of that card would come in handy wherever you went. When we look at prayer, do we have that same attitude and appreciation? Why or why not? Like credit cards, prayer has its rewards or perks. So don't leave home without it.
What prayer gives: God's perspective (see the world through His eyes), God's power (strength when we are weak), His presence (spiritual reality while here on earth)
Takeaway idea: Prayer has its perks, so don't live life without it.
What prayer requires: grace, fear, helplessness.
When we come to God we do not come as pagans of performance but as children of grace.
A genuine prayer requires that we fully understand that God is "Our Father."
"I dream of a church that makes disciples and then sends them into the world to shine the light of Jesus in the darkest of places."
A sending church begins and ends with the God who sends
God sends us to be witnesses to the reconciling power of the gospel.
As witnesses, we are sent out like Jesus was sent out
Emotional Health. Story: When we often greet one another, you get the perfunctory “I’m doing okay.” But are you really being honest?
CLC Dream Series; Dream of a church that strives for emotionally healthy spirituality, where "safe space" creates “brave space.”
Staff values: Healthy communication and reconciliation, transparent.
Story: At a church retreat, our speaker Pastor Les Yee opened his message with this quote. Rocked my world. “You can’t be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature.” (Peter Scazzero)
-
ESV Luke 2:52, “And Jesus advanced in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” a. Wisdom (transformation of the mind, mental growth) b. Stature (physical growth, reputation/character) c. Favor with God and men (relationally whole, vertically and horizontally, emotional growth)
-
ESV Matthew 10:16, “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”
wise = shrewd =cautious Harmless = gentle = innocent = pure
MLK sermon “Tough-minded, Tender-hearted”, prophetic for our times Tough-minded = wise = test everything
Tender-hearted = grow in compassion
Both are necessary but are in tension. Important for safe space to lead to brave space (dialog and hard conversations can be had)
Join us in acknowledging and accepting Stephen Shelnutt and Jeff & Laura Ho into CLC membership.
Four "rules of thumb" to high definition time with God: Scripture - The primary way God speaks to us Vulnerable Prayer - Unfiltered conversation Active Listening - What do you what to tell me Surrender... "Your will be done"
Why Obedience is the "good Stuff"
Obedience is faith coming to life Obedience places God in his rightful place Obedience takes "us" out of the equation Obedience restores us
Most Important... God is glorified through obedience "To obey is better than sacrifice" 1 Samuel 15
This is the first message of 2021 and the message series, "Dreams for CLC." Pastors Andrew and Ben provide the answers to some secrets. Don't miss out.
We have a special Christmas worship service. Scripture reading, two audio dramas, and the message loving at the first Christmas from King Herod's and Mother Mary's views.
Waiting with great expectation for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, hope for the world. Waiting is so very hard to do. Regardless of the circumstances for the waiting, we are not wired to be comfortable with it, especially in a modern world of microwaves and instant gratification. But waiting is what God asks us to do, because we become still, attentive, and focused. Anna was waiting at the temple expectantly for the Savior. And there appeared baby Jesus with Mary and Joseph. From the example of Anna, the Prophetess: 1. Waiting to worship (v.36-37) 2. Waiting means giving up things (v.37) 3. Waiting with anticipation (v.38) Main Takeaway: Jesus is the gift worth the wait. Action: This Advent, what will you give up, or better yet offer, to God as you wait?
Repentance, hope, transformation, covenantal God - who God is in the end., we break the covenant and he renews it. Our one hope moving forward is not how good we are at transformation, but how good God is at bringing us back.
It’s not up to us. By the way, the Israelites kept breaking the covenant. Base our hope and transformation on his goodness, not our discipline.
God who keeps his covenants, and Jesus who came to renew the covenant between us and God. Hope is not in the commitment itself, Israel breaks it. Hope is in Christ.
Pastor David Huynh
What is spiritual Stockholm syndrome? How Does spiritual Stockholm syndrome happen? How to break free from spiritual Stockholm Syndrome?
When the enemy fails in his attacks from the outside, he then begins to attack from within; and one of his favorite weapons is selfishness. If he can get us thinking only about ourselves and what we want, then he will win the victory before we realize that he is even at work. Selfishness means putting myself at the center of everything and insisting on getting what I want when I want it. It means exploiting others so I can be happy and taking advantage of them just so I can have my own way. Today, Nehemiah challenges us to "Stop and Look around for others." So let's begin this morning by trying to get a better handle on exactly what the problem was, shall we?
With the physical eyes, our oppositions seem to be against flesh and blood or with the people who get in our way like Sanballat or Tobiah. But the ultimate reality is that we are in a spiritual battle that can only be fought with spiritual weapons. Under and behind all physical manifestations of struggle is a spiritual reality. And that's why Eph. 6:12 warns us "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." What seems to be a jealous opposition from the two outsiders really reveals the "secret of the Fox." Behind God's calling for Israel's restoration, lies the spiritual battle before Nehemiah.
As a home-grown Oakland/San Leandroite, Yvonne Gee Bang, shares what it was like to grow up Chinese-American.
David Lew is affirmed as a new Board member and Deanna Wong is reaffirmed for an additional year on the Board.
Note: There is a video towards the end of the recording. Audio doesn't do it justice, please go to
Teacher Lynn and Mantou talk about the last part of the Lord's prayer - your will be done.
They did all this AND even without full knowledge of Christ! We however have Christ! How much more should we be able to risk out and step out in faith!!
A few questions are posed to Dr. David Lew by Pastor Calvin in his message entitled "Eternal Faith." Dr. David Lew is asked to compare and contrast some of the hardships faced during this COVID-19 pandemic with Sarah and Abraham.
Abraham, part 2. Faith that is willing to sacrifice one's life for God, e.g. Healthcare workers especially during this pandemic risking their lives by faith...
Abraham did not directly sacrifice his own life, but was ready to obediently sacrifice his only son Isaac, who was his bloodline, and as such indirectly like his own life. Abraham's faith allowed him to trust God's promise, and risk everything he hoped for. How was he able to do this? Abraham's faith is based more on the character of God the Promisekeeper than the promise itself.
- Abraham believed in God's character. Abraham received God's promises (v.17) in his life, so had evidence of God's trustworthiness in the past.
- Abraham believed in God's plan for the world, a plan bigger than himself. Totally believed the promise that through Isaac, Abraham would become a nation (v.18), and a blessing to the world.
- Abraham believed that God had resurrection power, to raise Isaac from the dead (v.19), (eternal perspective). Main idea: Eternal faith frees one to sacrifice everything and anything, because of an eternal perspective that sees abundance in God.
Abraham and Sarah, part 1: Abraham stepped out in faith, not knowing where he was going. e.g. Stephen Shellnut is going to Radius... he is stepping out in faith. Because of the promise of eternity, stepping out in faith and leaving everything behind is the only option that makes sense. Sarah is a great partner to Abraham in their faith venture. e.g. Rana has been a great partner to me in our own missions venture.
Enoch. Genesis says twice that "Enoch walked with God" Whoa! In our American culture where productivity and accomplishment is seen as valuable, why is time with God so precious and worthy? and how is this a faith issue?
Part of equality includes knowing ones self. William Cheung tells about his upbringing as a 2nd generation Cantonese speaking Chinese American.
Big picture, walking us through what faith is (assurance of things hoped for and conviction of things unseen) / what is it, why is it important? What do all these heroes of faith have in common? They all believed to the point of RISK.
Who is my neighbor? How should I think of my neighbor? What does it mean to love my neighbor?
Go and do as a lifestyle
Many are asking, "How do we have those difficult talks about racial justice and racism with, say, my parents?" Well, like with a lot of things, it starts with relationship. Jesus modeled for us how to do it with the Samaritan woman in John 4. From his example, we should proximate, change the narrative, keep the hope, do uncomfortable things (from Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy).
- Proximate: get near to the issue, make it personal, engage in conversation, vv.4,7.
- Change the narrative: speak truth to counter the lies and deflection, vv.16-17, 20, 26.
- Keep the hope: living water (v.10), eternal life (v.14), , Messiah (v.26), opposing racism is hard, so keep on hoping, or easy to give up.
- Do uncomfortable things: Jesus went into Samaria (v.4), speaks to a Samaritan woman (v.9), received dismay of disciples (v.27); opposing racism will get you out of your comfort zone Main point: Difficult conversations are hard, so leverage relationship. Isaiah 1:17.
Pastor Andrew will share with us what CLC hopes to do as our governments make changes to COVID-19 restrictions and best practices.
- God created men and women in His image, and on the 6th day he said it was very good. We are ALL human and should see each other as such and as equals (Gen 1:27).
God is also a creative God, so he made us diverse. Heaven will be a place filled from every nation, tribe, people and language (Rev 7:9).
- But sin entered the world, and mankind developed pride, "I am better than you."
Men and women looked at certain people groups and said, "You are not equal to us." Discrimination can be based on skin color, language, race, ethnicity, gender, faith, etc. (Biblical example of man's discrimination and systemic racism, Acts 10:9-16, Acts 15:1-19, God's warning not to call certain people unclean when God has made them clean, which helped Peter to later speak against the Judaizers requiring Gentiles to be circumcised like Jewish Christians, to be qualified into faith)
Historical and current example: US Declaration of Independence says "All men are created equal." But depends on how you define/translate "men". Racism: Black slaves were viewed as less of a man (3/5), in the US Constitution, Plus women and children were not included in Declaration of Independence.
Personal Story: Systemic racism exists today still, like for example in the form of redlining.
- Breaking down the wedge of Model Minority Myth, 4 Ways used by dominant culture to maintain power and privilege: exploitation, extermination, demonization, and assimilation.
Assimilation is Cultural and Ethnic erasure. Adapting to dominant culture has benefits, but there's a dark side, like "self-hatred." The moment we try to be someone we are not, we are telling God and our ancestors, "You made a mistake." But God tells us we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Big Idea: God is anti-racist, so we should be too, by loving our "neighbors", no matter what their color, because ALL are created in his image, fearfully and wonderfully made.
Applications for racial justice (from Bryan Stevenson, "Just Mercy"): proximate, change the narrative, keep the hope, do things that will be uncomfortable.
The big idea for this message is to walk through what the Bible teaches about God as a Father. Most Christians are familiar with this concept but perhaps they have forgotten how radical it is. For me, I constantly forget about my new standing before God (won for me by Jesus) as son-to-Father. And when I remember it, it always gives me a jolt of grace.
The three points for this message move to unpack what it means to relate to God as Father. 1. We do not relate to him as a servant does his master (utilitarian) but as a child does her father (intimacy, favor, access). 2. He disciplines us. This is a principle for the rest of the sermon series... The implication here is that God loves us enough not just to tell us the things we long to hear but also the things we don't! 3. God the Father desires all of his children (of all races) to be at peace with one another. This is something that most people want, but ultimately this is what God the Father desires for all his children.
Who is our neighbor? Well, who do you see? It's whoever you meet today and our neighbor is anyone that we can help esp. those who are "Broken." In light of what's happening in our country, God sees our hurt and our brokenness and He is guiding us to see other's hurt and needs!
Our guest speaker, Pastor Gary Vanderpol, tells us about our opportunity regarding the environment.
Word of grace to moms - some moms are feeling a little guilty... "I feel like I haven't been the mom I should be"; remind people that the gospel is about grace.
Have you ever felt like you were "stuck in the mud"?
You are spinning your wheels and going nowhere? Worries are strangling your life? You can’t sleep at night? Everything in your world turned upside down?
Pandemics can do that. On top of that, shelter-in-place can increase feelings of isolation, anxiety, hopelessness and depression. Loneliness was a big problem before the pandemic, and now made worse.
Are you having negative thoughts? Feeling non-essential? Your misery can’t end fast enough?
In Psalm 40, David can identify with you. He is in the "mud" and is sinking fast. David calls out to God and in the clutch "delivers” him. Do you want that for yourself now and forever more?
From David's experience, 1. Recognize you are in the mud and Realize God can help you out. (v.1-2) Denial or ignoring your dire straits is dangerous. 2. Reflect to Reset our lives. (v.6-8) God wants our obedience. Being stuck can get our attention fast to change. 3. Reveal hope you have to Relate to others. (v.9-10) Tell your own story of deliverance to others; share the “medicine”. 4. Rejoice that God is our Deliverer. (v.16-17) Be grateful, which helps among other things to counter hopelessness and depression.
We all need God the Deliverer. No matter what our circumstances, good, bad, or in between, we are honestly all "stuck in the mud."
When we are hurting, hopeless, desperate, we just realize it faster. God is patiently waiting for us to notice he is there for us. And that is Good News. God delivers.
Hi church family!
How are you all doing?
Well, it’s week #5 of being sheltered in place
In week #5 you start to see really bad haircuts, am I right? In week #5 you actually watched that show on Netflix called Tiger King… Right about week #5 you start to feel bad about the nonstop eating, am I right? Have you guys heard of freshman 15, well how about the COVID 19?
At week #5 it’s like - umm we might be here for a while…
And I think right about now is about the time we start to reflect on the deeper matters.
It reminds me of people who have had a loved one pass away. And immediately there is all this event planning for the funeral all this busyness And then after the funeral when things finally slow down That’s when the true grieving begins
I wonder if its the same way COVID 19 hit and we were in GO GO mode grocery shopping care for elders home schooling set up the home office busy busy
Maybe right about now is the time when things finally slow down a new normal has been established and the deeper questions set in
Why is all this happening? Why is God allowing COVID 19 to happen? What is the purpose?
In other words, What is COVID 19 revealing? About God? About us? About the world we live in?
And that is where we are going with this next series.
And so in this series we plan to talk about: depression daily dependency on God dysfunctional family relationships social inequality and even environmental justice.
But for today we want to talk about control
One of the biggest things that COVID 19 is revealing is how little we are in control.
We have no control over how long this will last Some of us are losing control over our job situation Some of us who are now homeschooling parents realize - I have no control over our kids So we get angry, lose patience and realize - I have no control over myself
and health wise… we sanitize we sanitize wash your hands and never touch your face but you still don’t have complete control you still could get it we could still pass it on
COVID 19 is revealed how little control we really have And as Americans, we are people who love to be in control
And that leads us to Revelation 5 Revelation is the last book of the Bible Its about the future of the world
It is written to people who were in danger of false teaching persecution and compromise Some of them were thrown into prison One of them Antipas was killed for being a Christian So imagine how everyone was feeling They were scared They were feeling out of control… “At any moment they could take us to jail…” “We could be killed, just like Antipas!”
For Week #5 in COVID 19 turning to this book to comfort and to challenge just seems very relevant…
Revelation is highly symbolic apocalyptic literature. It deals with big big themes, but the idea is that if you understand the big big story of human history, then you know how your personal story fits in.
In Revelation 5 John along with all of humanity is on the edge of history leaning in… and wanting to know…
Is history going somewhere?
Where is this all going?
and Who is in control?
Different religions have a different take on the unfolding of history. For example in Buddhism history is seen as an endless cycle of life and death and reincarnation. You born, you die, you are reincarnated, you die again…
The atheist has a different perspective. Shakespeare said it like this, “life is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.”
In other words, history is not going anywhere in particular. People are born, people suffer, people die, and that’s it. I’m sorry, there is no rhyme there is no reason everyone is a bunch of accidental molecules. I’m sorry.
Is that true? Is life a story told by an idiot? Or is it or the replay cycle of reincarnation?
Or is history a story with a beginning middle and end that is all going somewhere?
And the first verse in chapter five is basically saying Yes, absolutely; history is a story. It has a purpose, it has meaning, it is going somewhere…
God is pictured on his throne and in his right hand is a scroll written front and back and sealed with seven seals. And on this scroll is written down everything that is going to happen in the history of the world. In other words every day has carefully and intentionally been planned out. Now this is what it means for us… it means COVID-19 and everything else that happens in God’s world has already written down on God’s scroll.
But now the drama in heaven takes a decisive turn.
The defining issue in this drama is not what’s in the scroll. The defining issue in this chapter is this: who is worthy to open it?
Who is worthy to bring history to its final consummation? Like God the father through this Angel is saying- there needs to be a director! The script is all written down but there needs to be a director. Who is worthy of bringing the script to life. Steven Spielberg? JJ Abrams? And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it. And John begins to weep.
All right I want you to feel the drama of this. This resonates with our stories of legend. This is like the sword in the stone Excalibur, right? and who is a worthy enough to pull it out and then king Arthur pulls it out.
This is like the search for the holy grail right and only one pure of heart could be worthy enough to find it…
But this theme of Who is worthy is also a personal one too. Or let’s let’s bring it down to an example that you can relate to. A lot of dads have a little girl. And that little girl has you wrapped around her little finger. She is the light of your life. And then one day when she’s all grown up, one day she brings home something called a man. And then the cry goes out-who is worthy to open the scroll and to date my daughter? Now This is how one father put it to me, he said - I was walking my daughter down the aisle and when it came time to hand her over something inside me couldn’t do it and I got angry and I looked at that man and I thought who is this donkey and why would I hand over my beautiful daughter to him? I was like, wow I can’t believe you said that!
And so I said, Dad I don’t like that story. Please don’t share that with other people.
OK but this is not the future destiny of a beautiful woman. This is the future destiny of the entire world. And so the call goes out to all of heaven and all of earth: who is worthy? Who is worthy to be the director of this? Who is worthy to bring history to it final consummation?
And so the call goes out before the entire universe…
Verse three: and no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll
No one in heaven or on earth or under the earth
Just to be clear – John means no one in the entire universe is worthy
And so you read into this a very dramatic pause
All of humankind is waiting with bated breath
You can hear a pin drop
And in this dramatic pause John falls down weeping because no one is found worthy enough to take on this task
That is, except one…
You imagine John bent over and he is loudly weeping and an elder walks up to John and puts a hand on his shoulder says don’t cry don’t cry there is someone - there is someone who can open the scrolls…behold the lion of the tribe of Judah-
Notice the first Image used to describe this person who is worthy to bring about the future…
Don’t worry the lion of Judah is here
Now think about this for a second…
How approachable is a lion?
How would you feel if I told you that in a few moments a lion would appear in your room. Would you go? Oh good, I would love to pet it! No! You would be terrified!
A lion is admirable for its ferocious strength, a lion to the ancient person is not an animal at the zoo in a cage, it is a ruthless, almost unstoppable killer, it would take from your flock at will. It frequently worked from ambush, and when it roars it can be heard from miles away, and people would hear the roar and tremble in fear. A lion is ferocious, with awesome power…
So the elder said, Weep no more, behold the lion of the tribe of Judah…he can open the scroll.
So you are expecting a ferocious unstoppable invincible LION
and so the camera pans to the throne and the four bizarre living creatures and then among the elders emerges the ferocious unstoppable invincible figure you are expecting a lion he is not a lion He is a lamb a lamb that is standing looking as if it had been slaughtered
This is not the unstoppable killer we were expecting!
Now if a lion is known for being ferocious A lamb is know for being the opposite A lamb is a baby sheep gentle innocent dependent it provides wool
we go, wait a minute, so he’s not a lion, he’s a lamb
and then John goes right back to the other image
And says this lamb has seven horns
Seven is the number of completion A horn is a symbol of power.
He is a lamb of seven horns, He is a lamb of absolute power.
OK What does this mean?
One thing it means is that Jesus has incredible range.
Jesus has incredible range.
Or someone put it 250 years ago - he is a conjunction of diverse excellencies He is the rare combination of diverse excellencies you think could never go together in the same person
Let me tell you what this means.
It means to the tired, to the hurting, those who feel like they don’t belong, to the stressed out and anxious, He is a slaughtered lamb who can relate to you in every way.
He is acquainted with grief He understand weakness He wept with those who wept He was weary He was forsaken betrayed whipped mocked and crucified.
I have a friend who wrote a group email to his boss and his boss insulted him in front of everyone! And my friend was so angry. And the only thing that calmed him down is he would think of Jesus being insulted on the cross. And the more he reflected on that the more it gave him calm and poise.
A LION TOO! But you know something Jesus Christ has infinite range, he is also a ferocious lion.
And for those who are like spiritual marines You want a champion an invincible leader one you can respect in strength! Someone who says- all authority in heaven and earth have been given to me Go and make disciples of all nations
…and Jesus is that too! He is a conjunction of diverse excellencies If there is one person worthy of bringing history to its final consummation
…it’s Him!
And so the Lion Lamb with seven horns and seven eyes walks up to God the Father who is seated on the throne and takes the scroll and the moment he does we see one of the greatest scenes of worship ever recorded in the Bible. It starts with the four living creatures and then the 24 elders and then many angels and then myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands hundreds of millions and then every creature in heaven and on earth and under the sea and in the sea, and all that is in them in other words the entire universe is worshipping the one man the God man the lion lamb who alone is worthy of bringing history to its final completion…
Alright, what does this all mean?
During COVID 19 all of us to some degree are feeling the same thing we are feeling out of control
I can’t plan my summer, I can’t plan my vacation, Rana and I had plans to travel to Taiwan - that got canceled We had plans to support raise in May - that got canceled We have no control over our schedule
We all feel the same way
We can’t control my kids, we can’t control my own patience…
Some of us have lost our jobs Some of us have coworkers who have lost their jobs and we are wondering about our job security
We are taking every precaution Even sanitizing our groceries But we still lack complete control…
one of the things COVID 19 is revealing is that you and I are not in control.
And for people who realize how little control we really have
The message of Revelation is very encouraging.
It says - we don’t know what the future holds, but we know the One who holds the future.
It says - we may have no control over the future, but the One who is worthy is in full control.
The One who loves us is in full control.
If there is one person you can trust to make everything including COVID 19 work for good- it is Him.
You can trust Him You can’t control Him But you can trust Him
He is a lion lamb
who conquered like a lion by sacrificing himself on the cross like a lamb!
He conquered by sacrificing himself out of love…
And so what does this mean?
It means this:
History is not an endless cycle that repeats over and over again. History is not a tale told by an idiot
History according to the Bible is the story with the beginning, middle, and an end. History according to the Bible has a purpose. It is all going somewhere. Everything is moving to a final chapter… It is moving the Bible says to a great and glorious ending. Where the evil is vanquished, and poverty will be no more, and loneliness will be no more, and racism will be no more, where the guy get the girl, and the girl gets the guy, and the greatest enemy which is death itself is defeated.
At the very last two chapters in the book of Revelation we read about the very end. The final destination of history And this is how it ends…
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place[a] of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people,[b] and God himself will be with them as their God.[c] 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” 5 And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.”
Now if you know the big picture of where all of history is going Then during a time like COVID 19 when you realize how little control you really have… you can have peace…
because no matter how bad the battle gets you KNOW you are going to win the war!
He will wipe away every tear and death shall be no more. Behold I am making all things new…
You can say, I don’t know what the future holds But I know the One who hold the future And He is worthy, worthy, worthy! You can lift up both hands in sweet surrender
You can surrender control over your life to him…
Teach Auntie Lynn talks about the third portion of our mission statement, "serve the world." Pastor Dave and Ms. Afro from Living Hope Neighborhood Church in Richmond helps her give real time examples.
Christ has risen! This is the day that we celebrate Christ's rising from the grave over 2000 years ago.
This service includes musical worship, community building announcements, a Children's moment, testimonies, communion and the message. All are in honor of our great and gracious God.
3 needs - for sustenance, for security, for significance → COVID-19 is revealing these false hopes that we have inside for sustenance, security, and significance
Closing - Jesus is my protector here on earth, Jesus is my ticket to entering into the gates of heaven (eternal question that we should all wrestle with, COVID-19 is temporary)
This season is many things for many people. Crazy busy for some. Confusing and scary for others. Given our new schedules and new priorities-how do we make the most of our time? Pastors Andrew and Ben will be co-preaching together. In this recording, we have the worship songs and #weareCLC segments included. Enjoy!
Dr. Tiffany Lin Lucas will talk to us about why the coronavirus has gotten so much attention and much more.
What are they?
The spiritual disciplines are those practices in Scripture that promote spiritual growth among believers in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
-
Which ones are most important?
-
Why do them? For the sake of ___ make it the aim of your quiet time
To be more like Jesus (1 Tim 4:6-8) Training vs. Trying
The Sailboat vs. the Motorboat
- What if I don’t feel like doing it?
“We were made to worship together. Among the multitudes. With the great horde. Swallowed up in the magnificent mass of the redeemed.
God didn’t fashion us to enjoy him finally as solitary individuals, but as happy members of a countlessly large family.” (Habits of Grace, David Mathis)
Benefits of Corporate Worship:
-
Focus (Psalm 73:16-17) Tune out the fog of our circumstances to tune in on God.
-
Community (Rev7:9) Not alone, but part of a community.
-
Growth (Acts 2:42, 1 Cor 14:3) Corporate worship grows us spiritually.
-
Submission (Ephesian 5:18-21) Learning to let go and submitting to others.
-
Magnified Joy (Psalm 100:1-4) A big party to share joy together.
“The need for God’s people to be so collectively full of God’s presence that their worship is transformed, their relationships are transformed, and their lives as a totality are transformed.” (Practicing the Power, Sam Storm)
“Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:18-20)
Spiritual Gifts Test - Code 858756 https://tinyurl.com/CLC-SpiritGifts
Common Warfare Tactic = divide and conquer Jesus warned us, “No city or house divided against itself will stand.” (Matthew 12:25)
To counter, Jesus commanded us to have “love for one another.” (John 13:35)
Yet we keep on hurting each other, even in our usage of spiritual gifts as we try to love.
The Apostle Paul addressed this problem: 1 Cor 13:1-3, “but have not love, I gain nothing.”
1 Cor 12:14-27, Diversity is not division. Unity is not conformity. God designed us to be interdependent.
Dangers to be aware of: Gift envy Gift projection Gift pridefulness
Conclusion: There are no right or wrong spiritual gifts. One gift is not better than another. All spiritual gifts have strengths and cautions.
“Through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)
Spiritual Gifts Test - Code 858756 https://tinyurl.com/CLC-SpiritGifts
Quess Liu and Linda Lu tell about a needed venue happening March 1, 2020, involving hearing and listening.
Why serve? a. Glorify God (1 Peter 4:11) Serving brings glory to God b. Edify Others (Eph 4:11-12) Serving builds up the body of the church.
How are we to serve? a. Passion indicates where you are best suited to serve. b. Spiritual Gifts indicate what you will do when you serve. c. Personal Style indicates how you will serve.
Spiritual Gifts Basics (1 Cor 12) Definition What it is and is not. Who gives them? Who gets them? Can you have more than one gift? When are they given? Why are they given? How many gifts? Have some ceased? Why discover your gifts? What steps to take? Gift Inventory Test online (www.spiritualgiftstest.com, use access code 858756 when you register)
Our Annual Meeting was open to everyone. It was a two part meeting, with the first part being within the worship service and the second part after service.
Also, the last part of this recording includes the words Pastor Andrew spoke on the following Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020.
Spiritual Gifts: Divinely enabled abilities given by the Holy Spirit for the common good of the church and her mission
The Lists: Romans 12 1 Corinthians 12 Ephesians 4
The Corinthian List
Why should we desire these gifts, including the ones on the Corinthian list? Because Paul thought they were ______________ for ____________ and the common good. Because they are the way we express ________ for one another.
What does it look like to earnestly desire spiritual gifts? Wanting them Begin with the Bible __________ Take a test: https://spiritualgiftstest.com, access # 858756 Consume sound teaching and testimonies Meet a need
Context: Jesus is having one last meal with his closest friends. Knowing that his life is coming to an end, He gives them one last teaching.
(v.15) Why do you think it’s necessary for Jesus to say - if you love me you will obey my commands? Is it possible to love and not obey? Is it possible to obey and not love?
(v.16) How do you respond to Jesus when he says (on your behalf): I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper. Do you feel the need for a helper?
How does the giving of the Holy Spirit relate to loving and obeying Jesus?
Based on this passage what does the Holy Spirit do? How does he help?
(v.22-24) Lastly, how does Jesus answer Judas‘ (not Iscariot) question about engaging the rest of the world?
How does this teaching personally apply to you? How does it apply to us as a community?
When someone comes to you and says, “I have Good News, Bad News,” which do you prefer to hear first?
When Jesus was having supper with his disciples in the upper room, he had “Good News, Bad News” for them. The “Bad News” was Jesus was leaving them soon. Upon hearing this, the disciples became troubled.
To comfort the disciples, Jesus had 3 astounding statements of Good News for them (and for us today):
- Location, Location, Location.
“I go to prepare a place for you.” (v.2)
An eternal room in Heaven with God.
- Jesus the Standard.
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (v.6)
Jesus is the way to follow, the truth to believe, the life to hope for.
- Supernatural Power.
“If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (v.14)
Promise for answered prayer to accomplish greater works than Jesus’.
What would you do if you knew you only had one more day to live?
Why is it important for us to know for this narrative that Jesus was aware of his power and true identity (v.3)?
How did Peter respond to Jesus washing his feet? How would you have responded?
When Jesus says “you also ought to wash one another's feet” (v.14) what does he mean practically by this?
How is verse 34, the commandment to love one another, a new command?
Application: Who’s feet are God calling you to wash?
Today hypocrisy is accepted to be a simple reality of modern life. Sadly Christians are not exempt from being viewed as hypocritical.
Hypocrisy, if not dealt with honestly, can become a serious problem.
From story of woman accused of adultery in John 8:1-11, 1.Hypocrisy breaks our relationship with God. (v.6) 2. Hypocrisy hurts people. (v.3-5) 3. Hypocrisy undermines our witness and outreach. (v.2)
Overcoming hypocrisy, to love others like Jesus: 1. Starts with self-reflection. (v.7)
- Means having no condemnation for others like Jesus. (v.11)
Three speakers - one scripture: Matthew 1:18-25 Hear questions and thoughts that Jordan Kong, Cindy Yip and Pastor Gary VanderPol have on this familiar passage. Do they come up with the same things you thought of?
Today is the start of a new series, and we are calling it the awesome wonder of Christmas.
Really it’s about worship.
And the big idea is that we are looking at the Christmas story but we’re not focusing on the Nativity characters, except one. What does the Christmas story reveals to us about God, about who he is and what he’s like?
And I am convinced that if we take a really good look at the Christmas story, like a really good look, it will cause us to do something maybe we haven’t done for a long time- be filled with awe and wonder, it will make us just go – wow!
Now let me start here: How important would you say it is for us to be in awe and wonder of God?
Like how important would you say that is?
If I’m honest, there is a part inside me and maybe inside you that’s kind of like- Who’s got time for that?
Like last week, as I’m preparing for this message, I was feeling like, I’m too busy to be in awesome wonder of God. I have a turkey to make, actually Rana made the turkey, but I had to support her. Who’s got time to awe and wonder? Because we value activity, and busyness, and performance, and something tangible...
So how important is it to be in awe and wonder of God?
In the book of Acts, chapter 2, is very famous passage about the early church, and normally we remember that passage based on all the cool things they did: they were devoted to the apostles teaching, they were breaking bread, they were selling everything they had and sharing it all. You know that passage right? But one thing that gets overlooked is not just what they did, but how they did it.
The passage says that awe came upon every soul.
In other word, everything they did they did from a heart that was in awe and wonder of God.
Now how important was that?
I believe all and wonder what is the secret sauce that brought all the things they did together.
I mean imagine them just doing stuff for the sake of doing stuff. Imagine one of them going OK now we got to go to Bible study, and then I have to sell my house and give it to the church… No no no, all these things they did because they were inspired because they were lost in wonder of their amazing God, and the most natural thing to do was all the things they did…
How important is it for us to be in awe and wonder of God?
It’s like if you get one thing, get this, you get this and all else will follow. You miss this and it all become drudgery and busy work.
Maybe that is why theologians say that worship of God is the highest form of human activity. To be lost in wonder of God is a human being at their very best!
So when you wake up in the morning and you are tempted to skip devotions and just get busy. Maybe you can preach to yourself. You are not a human doing you are a human being. And our first and primary role is just to BE sons and daughters of the living God, who stand in awe and wonder of Him!
Same thing during this Christmas season. Let’s make time to experience God!
Can I get an amen?
OK so what is in the Christmas story full of awe and wonder?
And you don’t have to go too far before you start to see it.
Share J I Packer’s thoughts… JI Packer in his book Knowing God shares about all the Christian doctrine that is hard to believe. He’s like some people find certain doctrine hard to understand: the atonement, the resurrection, the virgin birth, all the miracles that Jesus did in the gospels. Then he writes this- “but in fact the real difficulty… does not lie here at all. It lies, not in the Good Friday message of atonement, nor in the Easter message of resurrection, but in the Christmas message of incarnation. The really staggering Christian claim is that Jesus of Nazareth was God made man…”
Packer is like of all the doctrines in the Bible the most staggering one is the Christmas story the Incarnation of Christ, the story of God becoming a human being!
To be clear, it wasn’t Jesus becoming 50% human 50% God. It was Jesus fully God also becoming fully human. Someone put it like this: Remaining what he was, he became what he was not. Remaining God, he became a human being.
All right that is a very big idea. Now if we’re going to unpack this in the right way we have to start at the right starting point which is…
The greatness of God and then from there we’ll talk about the Incarnation. But let’s start at the Greatness of God.
Have you guys ever been to Yosemite? Amazing, Amazing, once you go to Yosemite than you start to compare everything with Yosemite.
Across from Curry Village is this meadow and in the middle of this meadow is a wooden dock that cuts right through it. And the first time I went to Yosemite as an adult was like 15 years ago, and the youth were like, Andrew when it gets dark we have to go to this meadow. So we waited until it was dark and then we went for a night hike. Got to the meadow and walked all the way down to the middle of this wooden dock and we all laid down. And we turned off all the flashlight so it was pitch dark, and we all looked up and it was like…Whoa. Not a cloud in the sky. All the stars came out in this beautiful brilliant dazzling display.
And I remember thinking who has the creative energy to create all this?
How powerful does a person have to be to create all these heavenly globes in their spare time?
Isaiah 40:26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name; by the greatness of his might and because he is strong in power, not one is missing.
Now before we unpack the Incarnation of God we first need to go to the God who created the galaxies who bring out each and calls them by name…
This is how the first chapter of Matthew opens OK?
The first chapter of the book of Matthew tells us that Joseph who was betrothed to Mary was thinking of quietly divorcing her. Because she was pregnant. Because he wasn’t the father.
Verse 20 But as he considered these things, behold an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
So the angel tells Joseph that the human life growing inside Mary has come not from any human being but from God. Mary is pregnant by the Holy Spirit – what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit, so the real father is God.
Verse 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord has spoken by the prophet:
“behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).
OK boom. The identity of Jesus is even more clear and direct here. Matthew quotes from Isaiah Who says that a virgin will give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel, which means God with us.
You know, for centuries, Jewish leaders and scholars knew this prophecy but they never took it literally. They thought it was predicting the coming of a great leader and through their work and through their speaking, God would figuratively be with them. But they never took it literally, I mean like in human form, who would take that literally?
But Matthew is saying this promise is greater than anyone imagined. That this son who is called “God with us“ is actually literally God coming down from Heaven as a human being TO BE WITH US!
You guys Today the crazy awesome idea of Christmas is that this God
Who created the stars and the galaxies. That the God who is bigger than the universe put himself inside a human body!
That the Uncreated One who all things created depends on to exist…became…a created thing!
What? Whoa!
Now I know you guys know that, but can we just step back and look at this with fresh eyes?
Like, Really? Are you kidding me?
Like maybe you’ve been a Christian for a long time can you just imagine explaining this to someone who didn’t grow up in the church? Oh yeah God who created everything the earth the stars the galaxy yeah he became a human being. Really?
BUT there is every more!
Not only does he became a human being.
But…but…he is born in a barn.
And so they put him in an animal feeding trough.
Really?
Are you kidding me?
God made Himself into a baby and that baby was lying in a feeding trough.
Imagine being there.
Right in the middle of the barn in a feeding trough…
is God
Now I didn’t have a feeding trough
But I did have a box
Imagine God putting himself in a box.
Imagine if you were there knowing what you know, you could walk up to God and look at him in the Face.
I mean in the Old Testament, often when people would have an encounter with God they would be really scared afterwards because they thought they were going to die.
And here you could walk up and look at God right in the eye.
You could pick God up in your arms.
You could touch God.
Like the person who was actively involved in creating all the stars and the galaxies is here and you are able to hold Him in your arms!!
He’s a baby and he would need to be fed and he would need to be changed and that is like so weird.
All right all of this is just shocking and staggering. If you really think about it.
Why did God become a baby?
Why in the world would God become a human being?
I have heard that the equivalent of God becoming a man is like one of us becoming a piece of lint.
Now I don’t know about you but when I was small my parents wanted me to grow up and become a lawyer, they wanted me to make a name for myself. No one wants to grow up and become a piece of lint.
Why would God do this?
Why? The book of Hebrews says that Jesus was made like us, “fully human in every way“ (Hebrews 2:17.) That means “because he himself suffered when he was tried and tested, he is able to help those who are being tried and tested“ (Hebrews 2:18).
Because Jesus became a human being and suffered the way he suffered, it means that he is the one person in all the universe who can look at us and say,
I know what it’s like.
He is the one person in all the universe who can say
I’ve been there before. I know what you’re going through.
God became a human being, and if that wasn’t enough, He suffered the worst kind of suffering on the cross. He was torn apart in every way emotional spiritual physical. And because the infinite God suffered Jesus has an infinite power to comfort.
OK let me put it like this. When you are hurting really bad, how would you like a really good friend to care for you?
Or put it another way- when a really good friend is hurting how many of you struggle with knowing what to say? You’re doing a hospital visit, loved one is going through a lot of pain, and you don’t know what to say?
Now if you’re like me you natural impulse is to to give advice.
And some people have to learn the hard way.
I had a friend Mitch who was going through a really hard time so I took him out for dinner and gave him what I thought was really good sound advice. Well done Andrew! and at the end of our time Mitch says to me- Andrew I really learned something today. I’m like, Glad I could help you! He goes I learned that when someone is hurting really bad you should just be quiet and really listen and really try to empathize. That’s what I learned today. I’m like Glad you learned...wait a second, I didn’t do any of that. Oh you’re trying to tell me, OK…
That is not how we all feel. Like when you’re hurt and you want someone not to just spit out answers to be Bible answer Man you want someone who gets it. Who understands and feels your pain. Doesn’t just feel sorry for you but understands your experience…
They know cancer. Or they know the loss of a loved one. Or they know how hard a certain career is. Or what it’s like to have cantankerous in-laws. Or have a best friends stab you in the back.
They know what it is like. You you know what that feeling is like to have someone totally understand your mess and to just get you in that place.
Why did God become a human being? Because by becoming a human being and by suffering the worst kind of suffering, Jesus can say to you and me I get it. I’ve been there before. I know the kind of stuff you’re going through!
He can say, I am here with you!
The Incarnation is God’s way of giving Infinite Comfort to all of us who are suffering.
But, I would say, it’s even more than that.
Why would the 2nd Person of the Trinity become a human being?
Why would He leave the comfort and the glory of Heaven and become a human baby?
To provide Infinite Comfort to all those who suffer, but I would say there are still more reasons, and I would like to close on one more.
The Christmas Story reveals another thing about the very nature of God.
Why would the Galaxy Maker become a baby?
Why would cosmic power confine himself to an itty bitty living space?
I think it has to do something with this.
The very nature of God is self-giving love.
The willingness of Jesus to give up His life on the cross is the same willingness He showed to come down from Heaven and become a human being.
Jesus loved us so much that He gave us His very self.
It wasn’t enough to send a prophet.
It wasn’t enough just to give us a book.
Jesus loved us so much that He gave us His very self.
John chapter 1 verse 14: 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory
The Greek word for dwelt literally means to pitch one’s tent. So imagine us in Yosemite looking up at the stars and the Person who made those stars literally comes down to pitch his tent among us.
He pitched his tent to be with us
What does that tell you about the self-giving nature of God?
He loves us so much that is gave us His very best, He gave us Himself!
My brother was dating Rana’s best friend Michelle for about two years. And he loved her so much and he knew that she was the one for Him. And so for a couple of months he was planning the whole proposal. And Rana and I were living downstairs from Michelle. It was a duplex. And he was like, Can you guys help me set it up? And so the big day comes, and Michelle drives across the Bay Bridge to drop David off at his apartment in San Francisco. And they say goodnight. And David runs to his car and he wants to speed past Michelle on the Bay Bridge to get to her apartment before she does. And He’s thinking, Oh, I hope she doesn’t see me! Meanwhile Rana and I break into Michelle’s apartment to set things up. Lighting candles and putting in place this big huge refrigerator box, OK? And then we hurry back home. David gives us a call. “I don’t think I’m going to make it in time. She is beating me to her apartment. You guys need to distract her.” We’re like, OK, OK. So when Michelle comes back home, we’re like, Hey Michelle, Why don’t you come over for a little visit? She’s like, Uh, OK. So she comes in and we’re talking. And I’m not kidding you, all the sudden my brother comes in upstairs. and it sounds like a herd of elephants. Michael is freaked out like what is going on upstairs in my apartment! We’re like, It’s not David, OK? Oh that’s John the landlord who is fixing something up there. Yeah. We saw him. You should go up there.
Michelle goes to her apartment. Opens the door. There are candles everywhere. And right in the middle of her kitchen is a big refrigerator box with a big bow on top of it. And she opens up the box, and there is my brother and later that night her proposes. In effect he says, I want to be with you for the rest of my life.
Because when you really love someone You will give to them your very self. You want to be WITH THEM.
Who is this God who made the galaxies and then is willing to come down and put himself in an animal feeding box?
He is Immanuel which means, God with us!
Because when you really love someone You will give them your very self You want to be WITH THEM.
This is your God!
He is a manual, which means God with us
Do you wonder about Heaven? Or are you more often preoccupied with worldly things?
When Jesus invites you to come to him, will you be like the rich young man in Mark 10?
1) Big Ask:
“What must I do to inherit eternal life?” (v.17)
2) Bigger Tell:
“You lack one thing.” (v.21)
3) Biggest Challenge:
How?
“Can you go through the eye of the needle?”(v.21, 25)
My Answer:
“For Heaven’s sake, let go and grab onto Jesus.”
Scene 1 (9:14-19): The Frustrating Crowd and the Disciples’ Failure
What were the disciples doing wrong?
Scene 2 (vv. 20-24): The Desperate Father and his Moving Confession
What does Jesus teach about the importance of faith? What does this man demonstrate that the disciples did not?
Scene 3 (vv. 25-27): Jesus Saves the Boy
Scene 4 (vv. 28-29): A Lesson from Failure
How would you articulate the invaluable lesson for the disciples?
God's work done God's way will never lack God's provision
God's Work Meet the spiritual and physical needs of people
God's Way Fully ________________ on His power
God's Provision You will end up with ___________than what you started with.
Have you ever wished that God would hurry?
God’s sense of timing confuses us; His grace rarely operates according to our schedule.
Jairus did not know something that Jesus did. What did Jairus not know?
Notice that Jesus does not explain to Jairus why the delay, but simply says, Do not fear, only believe…
Jesus says that the girl is sleeping when it is obvious that she is dead. Why?
Jesus invited people to come to him, asking them, “Are you with me or not? Are you in or out?”
More importantly, Jesus looked for those who were “All In!”
What does it mean to be “All In”? In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus tells us the answer, plus examples of what it is not:
-
Hard-hearted (v.15) In a spiritual battle; put on the armor of God. (Ephesians 6:12-13)
-
Superficial (v.16-17) Abide in Jesus; practice spiritual disciplines. (John 15:5)
-
Divided (v.18-19) Let go of other “masters.” (Matthew 6:24)
-
“All In” (v.20) Good trees produce lots of good fruit; be a “good tree.” (Genesis 1:28, Matthew 7:17-20)
What do 4th soil people look like? Know any?
Reflection: Are you “All In: 4th Soil People”?
Intro: Following Jesus is like...
Mark 3: 13-19 The key difference between Western v. Eastern learning
Luke 14:26 Not actively but comparatively
The picture of Jesus in the Gospel (Matt 13:44): He is Someone worth more than everything else.
Two disciples of Jesus to emulate...
A principle to remember: It takes ___ to love ___.
A prayer to offer: “Father, grant me power from the Holy Spirit to love the Son of God like you love him.” - John 17: 26
The Big Idea: Jesus is not only the Lord of work, but also the Lord of rest. If there is anyone who knows how to rest, it is Jesus. (Ask Him to help you rest!)
THE STORY behind the Pharisees
The corrective that Jesus gave: The Sabbath is a gift. “It is an island of get-to in a sea of have-to.”
One day out of seven is for your good! 1. to provide opportunity for _______ and rest from _____.
OUR STORY (in a land of high stress and low-margin) 1.What would Jesus say to us in our context? 2. Why is corporate worship a priority? 3. What if worship doesn’t feel restful? 4. What are different ways to “rest from labor”?
Rest in His work on the Cross
Why?
-
We all suffer some sort of “paralysis” that we can’t always cure by ourselves. (v.3)
-
Friends go the extra mile if they really care. (v.4-5a)
-
a. Although impossible by others to do, Jesus can free us from our paralysis. (v.5b-11)
b. And that’s worth shouting to the whole wide world: “This is Jesus Territory!” (v.12)
Challenge:
We Christ-followers have freedom in Christ. So go and bring a friend to Jesus who can help them too.
Your Mission, Should You Choose To Accept It“
The strategy of Jesus: care for the masses by investing in the ___.
The Great Commission: 1. Go Means: walk across the room, build relationship, get connected
-
Baptize There’s a lot of space between Go and Baptize…
-
Teach “But I don’t have the gift of teaching.” The dirty little secret about teaching a word to parents
Ever feel like there is this gap between who you should be and who you actually are?
What God says to Moses, he also says to us: _ ____ __ _____ ___.
God revealed to Moses, “I am who I am” What does this mean?
How would your life be different if you really truly believed that God will meet you “In the gap”?
“ I would take more risks“ “I wouldn’t worry as much” “I would have more faith and confidence” “I would be more bold” “I would say yes to whatever He calls me too“
I. The Results of Listening to God (Psalm 1:1-3) Real truth prevents sin (1:1-2) Real truth keeps us rooted in God (1:3)
II. The Results of not Listening to God (Psalm 1:4-6) False truth results in being lost (1:4) False truth results in God's judgement (1:5-6)
Key Biblical Principle A complete prayer life is speaking to God and Listening to God.
Life Application What Biblical Truth(s) does God want you to live by today?
Life Application Example Acts 4:12 (ESV)
The more you have, the _____ you’re satisfied. (v. 10)
The more you have, the more you have to take care of. (v.11)
The more you have, the more you ________. (v. 12)
The more you have, the more you can ______ yourself by holding onto it. (v.13)
The more you have, the more you have to lose. (v. 14)
The more you have, the more you will leave behind (v. 15-16)
Justice
turn to your neighbor and tell them what comes to mind when you hear "justice".
Justice is: Judged
Justice is: Dead
Justice is: Alive
Take one step to justice.
The Poem (v. 1-8)
What does the poem mean? It’s Bad! (v. 9) It’s Good! (v.11a)
Here’s the problem (v.11b):
How’s this for a resolution? (v. 12-13)
Outline: For many of us, work will make up a majority of our lifetime. Ideally we should enjoy our work, but often many do not. Matter of fact, some even hate their jobs. So how can we change this?
From Ecclesiastes 2:18-26, 4 Stop and Think Moments:
- No matter how hard you work for earthly rewards, you can’t take it with you when you die! (v.18, 21)
Jesus warns us in Parable of Rich Fool. (Luke 12:15-21) Jesus gives us new way of thinking. (Matthew 6:19-21)
- Stressing about work does no good. (v.23)
Don’t worry! Be happy, because God has you covered. (Matthew 6:31-34) 3. Can’t truly enjoy life unless you enjoy God. (v.24-25)
Joy comes from God! (John 15:11, Romans 14:17)
- Conclusion: Pleasing yourself is a dead end! Pleasing God has eternal reward! (v.26)
How to be good in the eyes of God? Only through Jesus!
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Cor. 5:21)
Reflection on your work: Is God seen? People feel loved? Lives changed?
Who wrote the book of Ecclesiastes? Who are the two voices within the book? Why did we choose this book to go through during Summer? How is a Bay Area person similar to “The Teacher” in thought and perspective on life?
The Teacher’s Final Analysis: The Thesis: All is vanity (everything is meaningless) (v.2) The Problem: What do people gain from all their toil in this fallen world? (v.3)
Busywork (looks like change…but nothing really has) (v.4-7) You are never satisfied (v.8) History keeps repeating itself (v.9) No one will remember you (v.11)
So now what?
Today we are going through a passage written to the church in Corinth that was going through some problems.
First I will Read the passage and then you tell me if you have a sense of what the problem or problems might be, okay?.
4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;[b] 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Ok, did you catch the problem that the church was having? Let me put it like this. From verses 4 to 7 you have a poem about love. The romantic people call it a poem. The geeky people call in a definition. If you look at the outline you know which one we are. Just kidding. 15 definitions of love. Notice the first two are positive. Notice the last four are positive. And right in the middle, right in between are 9 definitions of love that are negative. Which leads me to wonder out loud whether Paul might have been a little Asian-American? Why so negative, why so much negativity?
The list describes his readers! Because this was everything the church was.
They were envious of each other. (They had factions. They were jealous of the abilities of one another) They would boast. They were arrogant. They were rude. (They got drunk at the Lord’s Table!) Each insisted on their own way. They were irritable They held grudges against each other. (They even took each other to court) They rejoiced at wrongdoing (one guy step with his stepmother and some people in the church applauded this and were proud of the person who did that!)
For more, open the pdf.
There are 2 video. The second one is in a language other than English, so you may want to watch that one.
Today we are going through a passage written to the church in Corinth that was going through some problems.
First I will Read the passage and then you tell me if you have a sense of what the problem or problems might be, okay?.
4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;[b] 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Ok, did you catch the problem that the church was having? Let me put it like this. From verses 4 to 7 you have a poem about love. The romantic people call it a poem. The geeky people call in a definition. If you look at the outline you know which one we are. Just kidding. 15 definitions of love. Notice the first two are positive. Notice the last four are positive. And right in the middle, right in between are 9 definitions of love that are negative. Which leads me to wonder out loud whether Paul might have been a little Asian-American? Why so negative, why so much negativity?
The list describes his readers! Because this was everything the church was.
They were envious of each other. (They had factions. They were jealous of the abilities of one another) They would boast. They were arrogant. They were rude. (They got drunk at the Lord’s Table!) Each insisted on their own way. They were irritable They held grudges against each other. (They even took each other to court) They rejoiced at wrongdoing (one guy step with his stepmother and some people in the church applauded this and were proud of the person who did that!)
For more, open the pdf.
There are 2 video. The second one is in a language other than English, so you may want to watch that one.
Rachel Lee shares shares some of her experiences as a young CLCer.
Tiffany and Jared Lucas become members of CLC.
Model for Community of Believers:
“All who believed were together...Attending temple together and breaking bread in their homes.” (Acts 2:44, 46)
The Solution:
“Life change happens best in small groups.”
Change =>growth = good
No growth = stagnation => death
The Problem:
“I don’t need another thing to do in my busy life.”
“Even if I had time, the groups are just too far.”
“Plus I’m not comfortable with other people (introverted).”
Myths:
More time = more belonging
More proximity = more belonging
More personality = more belonging
Essentials (From John 21:1-14):
- Living life together. (v.2-3)
“[The disciples] were together.”
- Growing in Jesus Christ together. (v.12-13)
“Iron sharpens iron.” (Proverbs 27:17)
“I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35)
- Serving Jesus together. (v.6, 10-11)
“I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)
Problem:
Answer:
The Six Steps to Rebuilding Hurt to Healing in the Church Community 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
The problem with not bringing things up.
What often winds up happening…
Practical Application:
“Strike while the iron is cold”
Seek to understand as much a you seek to be understood.
When Church Feels More Like a Social Club… May 5 message
Today I have an important update to give you, and I’d like to clothe it in this message, so here goes:
Jogging I would like to share with you one of my newfound hobbies. For the past year I have really enjoyed something that as a younger man I hated, and never could understand other people enjoying. Crazy thing is that now I get it, and I love it. I’m talking about jogging. Any runners in the room?
I can’t explain the love of jogging, I can’t explain it better than just to say that joggers are strange people who love pain.
I started off running 1 mile. And today 10 months later after steady incremental growth I am now jogging (pause) 1.2 miles. (I’m kidding) Just a little more, 3.6. Definitely nothing to brag about.
But it goes like this the 1st mile, I have my headphones on, My head is up, nice steady pace, I am listening to a podcast and It’s funny so I am laughing periodically.
2nd mile, my headphones are still on, but my head is down because I am staring at the dashboard and I’m listening to the funny podcast but I’m not laughing anymore.
The last .63 miles, I have thrown my headphones off my head, I am now a praying man, I am now a man of the cloth, and I am calling down the power of Heaven for strength.
3.6 miles later. It is the most thrilling moment of all, I’ve been waiting for this I hit the red stop button; I’m gasping for breath and as I leave the gym I am thinking, this was so great, let’s do it again next year. No honestly, I can’t wait to do this again.
The Apostle Paul near the end of his life in 2 Timothy said these famous words: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I’ve kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness… Today I want to make the point that our life together as a church should be like this: its like fighting a good fight…
Notice Paul used a sports illustration. Finishing the race.
You’re sweating, you’re fighting, you’re heart is pounding, you feel like you’re not going to make it, you are doing everything you can, crying out for strength because you know you have one race and you want to make it count so you are crying out to God to give you strength to finish, you are single-focused. You are giving it everything you’ve got. Leaving it all on the field. Cross the finish line…
And then you get to rest and you get to fall in his arms and drink the heavenly ice cold Gatorade.
The Problem Every Sunday we are addressing a problem that we have in community. And maybe it wouldn’t be right for me just to come right out and talk about a problem because the issue I’m addressing is the shadow side of a strength.
Let me give you an example. Recently I had a new family checking out our church ask me Pastor Andrew, what do you think the strength of our church is?
And I think I said without hesitation, that the strength of our church is community, and that if you come here you are going to find a rich church family, where people have known each other for decades, and people introduce you as uncle or as auntie to their kids. So it’s not just a program but it’s a church family.
And then they asked me like well, what do you think the weakness is? And I think I said without hesitation, that the weakness is also community, or at least the shadow side of having a rich church family community, and part of that shadow side is that we can very easily become NOT God‘s army, NOT these athletes who are running this race together, but we can very easily become a social club.
Have you ever been part of a church community that felt more like a social club? I mean, don’t get me wrong, we are in a way a “social club”, much deeper than that, we’re a family. But we’re not JUST a social club? We’re an army! We have this mission together! Ironically the way to a richer community is through mission!
Turn with me in your Bibles to Matthew chapter 5.
This is a passage from the sermon on the Mount. It’s about how Christians are called to be different from other people in society. Christian are called to be different. They are called to be holy. And it is through that quality of being different that you see your purpose and your mission in the world.
Verse 13: “”You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. Matthew 5:13-16 ESV https://www.bible.com/59/mat.5.13-16.esv
First observation: salt is different from meat. If God is inside you and working in your life then you’re different. People in the Bay Area may think and do one thing, about sex or ambition or comfort or what they want out of life, but you are qualitatively different. First observation from the text is that salt is different and so you are different.
Lemme go through the text and then talk about what this means for us.
Jesus says if salt has lost its taste… Saying something like unsalty salt is a contradiction. Salt cannot lose its taste, OK? Just like water cannot lose its wetness. If salt loses its salty taste, it is no longer salt. Interestingly, in the ancient world, it did happen. Historically around the Dead Sea you can collect salt with other minerals that looks like salt butis not really salt. Keep in mind Jesus is not giving a science lesson! The point is don’t lose your distinctiveness. Don’t you lose your holiness!
So you go, well, Why Not? Like why is it important to be different?
And here in this passage the answer to that question is all leveraged on mission. Do you see that?
OK now I want to ask three questions from this text. Please stay with me these are important questions.
WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF OUR MISSION? WHAT IS THE URGENCY OF IT? WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?
Earth/World First, the scope: Now, I want you to look at two words: earth verse 13, you are the salt of the earth and world verse 14 you are the light of the world let me hear you guys say, Earth. Let me hear you guys say, World. Notice the scope of the mission.
Jesus could have said you are the salt of Israel. You are the light of Jerusalem. No, not just Jerusalem nit just Israel, Jesus say the entire planet.
Now this is not one isolated passage where Jesus gives A global perspective. I would make the case that it has always been God‘s intention from the creation of the world that His glory extend to the the entire world.
This goes all the way back to Genesis when God says multiply and fill the earth, in other words bring my glory to every place on Earth.
Abraham was chosen to be a blessing to all nations. I mean I could make the case and just go through the entire Bible and show you book after book, it has been God‘s intention from the beginning and throughout history that his glory extend to the entire world!
Urgency So that’s the scope of the mission, but look in this passage for the urgency of this mission. What is salt good for? Thomas Keller would say it’s really good for enhancing flavor. He would say pepper is a “flavor-changer” but salt is a “flavor-enhancer”. It doesn’t change what it comes into contact with, it enhances, makes the flavor more intense, it brings out the true flavor. So if you add salt to pizza, doesn’t change the pizza it makes the pizza more pizza, makes the pizza better pizza. If you add salt to cucumber, what do you get? I more terrible cucumber. You are the flavor-enhancer of the world. You bring out the true favor of the world. Show the world the true flavor of self-giving love in all your relationships.
Salt in the ancient world also had another purpose. Irene can you play the video while I’m talking. This is a video of a whole chicken and what happens to it without salt, and without a preserving agent. I think it’s worth a few minutes of our time just to consider this. A person in the ancient world would salt their meat and dry it and the meat would be preserved and saved to be eaten at a later time. This is a video of meat that is not salted and not dried...
This is the urgency of our mission.
When Jesus says You are the salt of the earth He was saying…
The Christian by their message and way of life is preserving a world that would otherwise go putrid.
Do you believe that?
Today, 1.5 billion people have never heard the name of Christ and as far as we know when they perish without putting their faith in Jesus they will perish eternally. Right now, over a billion people live and die in desperate poverty. Thousands die of hunger-related and preventable conditions. While others, like myself, live in comfort everyday. Right now, pornography is destroying the lives of millions, especially young men, shaping how they see women, shaping how they relate to women.
I can keep on going, you know…
OK what is the scope of the mission? The entire world. What is the urgency of the mission? We and the world are going this way; Putrid rot. We need the gospel. We need the gospel. We need the gospel.
Last point who is responsible?
I think a lot of us feel like don’t look at us; just look at Jesus. Don’t put too much on the church, you have Jesus in heaven. And I do agree with that theologically. People, Christians, the church, keep failing us. Don’t put your trust in them! Right!
But, it’s just... in this passage Jesus did not say I am the salt of the earth. In this passage the focus of Jesus seems to be YOU; you are the salt of the earth, people. IN other words you are my ambassadors. You are my witnesses. You are the agents of change. If people are going to be looking at the reality of my existence, in other words, they will be looking first at you. Ultimately at Jesus, but the first glimpse will be You!
OK, quick review, what is the scope of our mission? The entire world. What is the urgency of our mission? the world like a piece of meat is heading towards putrid rot and it needs the preservation of the gospel of Christ. And who is responsible to bring that to the world? You the church you and I are responsible for that.
You guys, we are so much more than a social club! We have a mission. Lives are at stake! Eternity for many people are at stake. We have a mission!
The dream Several years ago I was on an airplane to Taiwan, and I had a dream. I don’t dream that often, I don’t remember my dreams, and I never have dreams where I’m feeling like God is speaking to me. But I woke up from the stream and I was like 99% sure God just spoke to me. I saw this beautiful mountain range and valley it was lush and green and I heard God say I’ve called you to be the lead pastor at CLC for 11 years. And then God gave a blessing to the church.
In 2021 I will have been lead pastor at Christian Layman for 11 years. And so in 2021 Summer my time as lead pastor will be coming to a close. From now until then I still have two more years to run my race here and to continue in my role as lead pastor.
I know there’s more to say about this logistically, and so after church today there will be a Q&A where we will try our very best to answer all your questions, OK?
But after this dream I started to ask God, like so what’s next? Lord, am I going to die? My my father passed away at 45, so that was a legitimate question.
During this time our church was going through the book radical by David Platt. So I am preparing to give a message and I’m reading chapter 7. And I’m telling you, chapter 7 just… Crushed me. In chapter 7 David Platt goes, there are 1.5 billion people who have never heard the name of Christ. There is probably not a more important question for the church to be asking then what happens to those 1.5 billion people after they die? And Platt with his three advanced degrees, applies all his hermeneutical skill towards interpreting the book of Romans to the best of his ability and the conclusion that he arrives at is that, OK to our best read a scripture it seems like the 1.5 without Jesus without ever hearing about Jesus are going to hell. And that is why God sends his missionaries. And that crushed me.
During that time my prayer changed. It always used to be, God if you make it undeniably clear to me, OK… Ok I’ll go. And my prayers changed to here I am, send me.
Life is short Eternity is really really long. 1.5 billion and your strategy is to send people…
Here I am, send me.
My Journey I really care about this. It’s weird, though. Its funny because when I first came to Layman 20 years ago, it was a missions Sunday Sunday. And when I heard that it was a mission Sunday… I let out an inward groan, like, Man, I should have come on a different Sunday. Like missions was something I know I should care about, but secretly don’t. So what happened?
It’s hard to explain. I guess it was a process. First for me it was just like I was blown away by the gospel. Like God would give up his Son…for me? Are you kidding me? I was blown away by grace. It started with grace. Knowing the unmerited favor of God!
And so I started to fall in love with Jesus. To the point, like I’ll do whatever you want me to do.
And the more you care about someone the more you care about the things they care about. I realized that God cares about extending His glory around the world. And God cares about all forms of human suffering, but especially eternal!
And that the 1.5 billion have never had a chance to hear. That’s not right! God cares about them. And God’s method is to send people.
So what about me? How about my family?
During this time God started to speak to Rana, and after service we’ll have time to hear Rana’s story.
APPLICATION So here is my application to all of you, I’m not saying that all of you should go overseas. I know that David Platt in Radical seems to be leaning that way, but I am not as radical in that interpretation as Platt is. There are incredible needs here in the bay area.
There are loved ones, Mom And Dad, family members, coworkers, classmates who do not know Christ. And if they parish without Christ they parish eternally.
There is urgency here in the bay area.
America knows of loneliness and disconnectedness that is so great and so painful that is not experienced in other parts of the world. The world may have poverty of economy but we have poverty of community.
in this world that is rotting, in this world that doesn’t know the hope of Christ, I think the appropriate prayer is: here I am, Lord, send me.
We have a social justice team that’s about to start. What if we started to say Lord here I am send me to join this team?
We’re going to do an eye screening in the inner city and we could use some help... first we could use people to volunteer at least one day to serve… It would be cool if people in our church who have administrative gifts, Here I am, send me. We could use volunteers to serve on the planning team as well.
We have about three people in our church that are preparing for the mission field, what if we as a church said hey let’s be great senders, Lord here we are use us.
I will share one last story.
I was in Tijuana with my middle child Christopher. And if you guys have never been to the Tijuana missions trip, you totally need to go. Anyway all weekend I was just kind of weepy I just felt like this amazing presence of God. It was an incredible weekend and we’re all heading back home. But because of a domestic terrorist attack the border crossing lines going back into San Diego we’re just crazy long and so crazy long that it seem like we’re not gonna make it. Then a line opened up and Gordon Who is very humble and personable very aggressive on the road, swerved and made it first in line. We get to the San Diego airport my passport goes right through but even people in my van their passports were not checking through. Gordon turned to me and said just go. I’m running I get there they let families with young kids in first and so I’m one of the first people on the plane. I sit down on the plane, i’m like, oh thank God, we’re going to make it. People on the team weren’t even going to make it, but I was going to make it, back in my home warm bath home cooked Trader Joe’s meal. and I was so suddenly overcome by an emotion that I was not expecting. I was feeling shame. And I thought come up man you call yourself a pastor? First on the plane, and half of your team isn’t going to make it. Gordon and Ami were on the curbside helping people get in and you’re on the plane? And right there and then I could swear to you I heard a voice and it was the voice of God and the voice said this this will not be your fate. You will not be one of these guys sitting on the plane just happy that you are saved but you were going to be like Gordon and Amy on the front lines helping people get in. And I just started to weep I just started to weep. And I look back now and I’m even more sure that it was from the Lord because the voice of shame and condemnation was from Satan or myself but it is the voice of the Lord that is encouraging that won’t be your fate you’re going to be like them.
Church I charge you to fight the good fight.
We are not just a social club, we are in an army of Christ with a very urgent mission.
We are in a race!
Life is short, and the mission is great.
don’t say like Gideon, I’ll do it God, if you make it really really clear to me. But say like Isaiah here I am send me.
Don’t be like the pastor who just sat on the plane happy that you are saved, be like Gordon and Amy who are helping people on the front lines helping people get through.
Run your race like the jogger on the treadmill is going strong for the Lord looking at the dashboard saying, I can’t wait I can’t wait for the red button to fall and to splash into that heavenly Gatorade.
Church let’s fight the good fight together!
I’d like to invite the worship team to come forward…
I’d like to pray for you, and then I’d like to give you a few moments to pray as well. Could I have you all pray for our church? After I pray for you, I will guide you in a time of prayer for our church, I will share a few needs and invite you to pray. So church I am going to invite you to pray for our church. Pray in your own voice and pray in a volume that is natural and comfortable for you.
First, please pray that God will give us a new lead pastor of His choosing, and I’ll give you a minute to do that.
Second, please pray that God will give our board of directors wisdom and guidance during this next season.
“Whatever you ask in my name, my Father will give you.”
Some scholars attempt to explain it (away)...
But James offers balance: two dangers in prayer Not Asking Asking Selfishly
Back to Jesus’ promise - “Ask whatever you wish” (Why didn’t Jesus bring balance to this statement?)
Praying in Jesus’ Name
We have heard God wants us to ask Him freely in prayer. And ask away we do. But what if we feel God is not answering us, or answering in a way we don’t like. We get frustrated, discouraged, and even angry with God. So what’s up with unanswered prayer? Sure feels like we are alone, like being in the desert.
Helpful to know that:
- More important than asking is to listen.
John 13:21-25 (ESV), v. 25 “Lying on Jesus’ breast.” (KJV)
- Unanswered prayer is a myth. Often we just don’t recognize God’s voice. (“Yes, No, Not Yet”)
John 10:27-28 (ESV) The sheep know their shepherd’s voice.
- Unanswered prayer often makes us feel like we are in the “desert”, but it is in the desert (desolate places, wilderness) we will meet God. (Paradox of suffering.)
Matthew 4:1-2 (ESV) Spent time in the wilderness. 3 translations of Luke 5:16, (ESV) “But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.” (NIV) “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (NLT) “But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.”
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor 12:9)
This Milestone, Preparing for Adolescence, prepares your children to walk through the remaining milestones of the teenage years. How you guide your child through this stage will determine the depth of challenge through this season.
Your children are about to enter the journey to adulthood. It may or may not have been smooth up to now but it’s going to get exceedingly more difficult, for you and them. Your child is about to begin climbing the mountain of adolescence. Guiding him/her through this process becomes essential to avoid pitfalls. The decisions you and your child will make through this time period can be life altering, positively or negatively.
The Problem: All Christians know that prayer is important and something they are supposed to do. Yet many feel praying is hard, boring, or worse, a waste of time? Sadly they see prayer more as a spiritual discipline rather than a relationship with their Heavenly Father.
Are you like that? Do you want to revive your prayer life?
The Solution: Turn back the clock, and pray like a child.
Why be like a child?
-
Because Jesus says so. (Matthew 18:1-5) a. Key to entering the kingdom of heaven (v.3) b. Humble like a child makes you the greatest (v.4)
-
Have unhindered access to Jesus. (Matthew 19:13-15) a. Jesus makes sure nothing blocks you from meeting him. (v.14) b. Jesus loves to bless you in prayer. (v.15)
How to pray like a child? (A Praying Life, Paul E. Miller)
- Ask like a child.
- Believe like a child.
- Play like a child (Babble).
“For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26)
The Problem: we only ask when we are in desperate need
In contrast, Jesus teaches that we children of a Great Father and the basic natural relationship that we have with God as Father is one of ASKING.
Luke 11:1-11 Review from last week (Luke 11:1-8)
v. 9 Why not just say “ask” why does Jesus use the threefold progression of: ask, seek, and knock?
v. 10-11 What is the nature of “sonship” that is being revealed in these few verses? And what is the nature of the Father that is also being revealed?
So why are we not asking?? Either your vision of God and his mission is too small, or your confidence in yourself and your ability is too big.
What A Praying Life Looks Like
Start with 5 minutes a day… Start with simple prayer
Prayer simply dies from efforts to pray about “good things” that honestly do not matter to us. The way to get to meaningful prayer for those good things is to start by praying for what we are truly interested in. The circles of our interest will inevitably grow in the largeness of God’s love… (Dallas Willard)
Turn a car ride (or a walk to class) into intercessory prayer Reflect with thanksgiving and praise near the end of the day
How would you rate the quality of your prayer life? From 1—10
Is this something you would like to change? Why or why not?
Why do you think up until this moment Jesus hadn’t prayed together with his disciples?
The first teaching Jesus gave was to address God directly as Father. What did that mean?
“Hallowed be your name” - Is it a praise or petition?
Lead us not into temptation—what does that mean?
How does the illustration in v. 5-8 connect with the “Lords Prayer” in v. 2-4?
What is your main take-away from this passage on prayer?
Spiritual Gifts defined: supernatural power given to individuals, at the sole discretion of the Holy Spirit, for the purpose of fulfilling the mission of the Church and for the good of others.
- Discover Your Gift, because that is part of your identity in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor 12:1-3)
3 Categories: a. Motivational Gifts (1 Cor 12:4) (Romans 12:3-8) b. Ministry Gifts ((1 Cor 12:5) (Eph 4:11-13, 1 Cor 27-31) c. Manifestation Gifts (1 Cor 12:6) (1 Cor 12:7-11) Example: Discernment of Spirits (1 Cor 12:10)
-
Desire Your Gift, to love like Jesus. (1 Cor 14:1)
-
Develop Your Gift, to fulfill God’s mission. (1 Cor 12:7)
Next steps: Study the Scriptures. Take spiritual gifts surveys. Read books on topic. Ask trusted friends for affirmation of gift(s). “Practice, practice, practice!”
Imagine what the church can be and do if we all tapped into the power that God has given to us all through the Holy Spirit.
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” (John
Prophecy Defined: “Speaking what God spontaneously brings to mind.” - Wayne Grudem, The Gift of Prophecy “The human report of a divine revelation.” - Sam Storms, Practicing the Power
What is the threefold purpose of prophecy according to 1 Cor. 14:3?
Why do you think many evangelical churches do not follow Paul’s instructions to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy? (1 Cor. 14:1)
Why is it important for you to receive a personal revelation of God’s love and to confirm your identity as a son or daughter? What will happen without this?
According to the Scriptures cited, how does God the love of God become real to people?
Paul’s prayer for people to grasp the fullness of God’s love in Eph 3: 14-19 is for Christians! What does this mean for you and me?
Is there anything you can do to know on a deeper level the love of God and your true identity as a son or daughter?
Ten men from CityTeam Ministries, Oakland, shared their testimony of faith through baptism this day.
CLC is so grateful to be honored to host them and have this wonderful event as part of our worship service.
Pastor Jonathan Zingkhai, staff on CityTeam Oakland Ministries, talks about homelessness, drugs and alcohol and what City Team does to help fight it.
Sharing given by Jason, a client of CityTeam Oakland.
CLC has supported CityTeam Oakland for more than 10 years.
Outline:
Is there a “roadblock” that keeps you from living more in the fullness of the Spirit?
What do you think would happen if we gathered together regularly to pray and wait on the Spirit?
What do you think it means to “wait on the Spirit”?
Perhaps personally you can start with an area of weakness or need…
CREATION (the Spirit was there) Genesis 1:1-2
OLD TESTAMENT In the OT, the Holy Spirit is active in an age of visitation
PROPHECIES (of an age of habitation) Ezekiel 36:26-27 Joel 2:28-29
CHRIST Luke 1:34-35 (the Spirit was there) Luke 3:16 ESV (He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit)
WHAT JESUS TAUGHT ABOUT THE SPIRIT John 7:37-39 (Rivers of Living Water)
REPLACEMENT JESUS John 16:7 (It’s to your advantage)
PENTECOST Acts 2 (The first day of the new age)
TODAY The Age of the Spirit continues today... What steps can you take to live by the Spirit?
The Nature of God (Deu 6:4; 1 Cor 8:4,6; Phil 2:6; Heb 1:3; Matt 26:64; John 8:58; Acts 5:3-4; Matt 28:19) God is not more one than three God is not more three than one
The Roles (Gen 1:1; Ps 139:13; Eph 1:7; Rev 5:9; John 14:16-17, 7; 1 Cor 11:3; John 5:19; John 16:13-14) God is Creator Jesus is Redeemer Holy Spirit is Sustainer
Ultimate Reality (Mark 1:9-11) God is love
What is the difference between new year goal-setting and keeping in step with the Spirit (Gal 5)?
Virtues grow not from behavior modification but from…
What the Apostle Paul assumes we know about the Holy Spirit. This is His age________________
-
He now lives ______________ you
-
He creates new ____________ and gives new __________
What we must take away from Gal 5 Know what (who) you have Keep in step with the Spirit
Why isn't this working for some? "I have a hard time identifying the Holy Spirit inside me." Our Hope for this Series
Look back to look forward, 3 things to remember:
- Faith (v.1-8) Jesus is Lord, so abide in him to be fruitful.
Family (v.5, 7) Jesus calls us his children, so love one another like family.
Food (v.9-14) Jesus offers us fellowship, so do likewise and be hospitable to others.
Application:
Whenever you gather for a meal, thank Jesus for his love and provision.
both lead pastors from CLC & CWOW as well as their wives give bit size messages encompassing the birth of Christ
God chooses Mary to give birth to Christ, the Son of God.
Mary fits the description of ”little people” in almost every way.
Why does God choose Mary?
What does that say about God?
Matthew 18:1-4; Luke 18:9-14
God give grace to the __________________
- What does this say about Mary? Little People Have child-like ___________________ Make themselves __________________
Jesus came into a racially divided world, much like our own.
The invitation of the magi is good news for all people.
The Magi Foreigners Astrologers God “moves” the heavens for them
Jesus and Foreigners Matt 8 John 4:4 Luke 10:33/John 8:48 John 12:23-24
What this all means (for all people…)
All of us have dreams. Some come true, some never do. Some dreams are easier to let go of than others.
And when dreams don’t come true, we can lose heart, lose hope.
No hope, no joy. So what to do?
From the life of Zechariah,
Keep hope alive:
-
Don’t stop praying, because God’s timing is not your timing. (v.7-13)
-
Don’t stop believing God, because God has not stopped believing in you. (v.18-20)
-
Don’t stop wondering, because we have a God of wonders. (v.59-64)
Everlasting faith produces everlasting hope.
“Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.” (Hebrews 11:1)
Two Examples
The Israelites by the Red Sea (Ex 14:10-12, Ps 106:7)
Entering the Promised Land (Num 13:30-33, Neh 9: 15-17)
One Lesson
Looking back in gratitude empowers you to look _________________ in ____________________.
Application
What if you did this the next time you felt uncertain about the future?
The Ultimate Event to Remember (Rom 8:32)
Various Scriptures: Rom 1:16, Acts 1:4,8; 4:31, 8:29,39
The gospel of Christ is both ultimately true and morally beautiful!
Our highest value in evangelism is to listen to and partner with the
______________________________.
Stages
Relationship building
Sharing __________________
Presenting the gospel
Encouraging a commitment
- Mentoring and equipping
Purpose: to connect the dots from the gospel to social concern to political engagement.
Everyone needs a Savior!
-
Social compassion is not optional, it is essential.
-
Political engagement is another way to love your neighbor.
Three Categories for Neighbor-Love
Share resources
-
Cultivate relationship
-
Change sociopolitical structures
- What does the Bible tell us about immigrants? Simply love!
A. Love them as yourself. (Leviticus 19:33-34)
B. Love the stranger, love Jesus. (Sheep, Matthew 25:34-35)
- What’s the consequence for not loving immigrants?
A. Sent away into eternal punishment. (Goats, Matthew 25:44-46)
- What about Immigration Reform and “Illegals”?
American history of racism, economics, politics Response to “Hey, I did it the right way!”
Instead have a posture of contentment that leads to generosity. (Vineyard Workers, Matthew 20:8-16)
Next Steps:
Study Scripture on the topic of immigrants. Engage with the immigrant community. Advocate for immigrants. Vote for politicians who will bring reform to injustices.
Reflection
How is God leading you to lament?
How is God calling you to respond and act in hope?
When it comes to world missions, what are the two most compelling reasons for WHY?
Today we focus on the question: What will happen to the 1.5 billion people who have never heard of Christ?
TRUTH 1: ALL PEOPLE HAVE __________________ OF GOD. Romans 1: 19-20
TRUTH 2: ALL PEOPLE ______________________ GOD. Romans 1: 21-23
TRUTH 3: ALL PEOPLE STAND _______________ AND ________________ FOR REJECTING GOD. Romans 3: 10-12, 19
TRUTH 4: GOD HAS MADE A WAY OF ___________________ FOR THE LOST. Romans 3: 21-22
TRUTH 5: CHIST COMMANDS THE CHURCH TO MAKE THE ________________ KNOWN TO ALL PEOPLES. Romans 10: 13-15
- message based on chapter 7 of "Radical" written by David Platt
- God’s plan and purpose for His people:
“To enjoy [God’s] grace…, but also to extend [God’s] glory to the ends of the earth.” (David Platt, Radical)
a. To Mankind: be blessed and multiply (Gen 1:26-28)
b. To Abraham: be blessed and bless others (Gen 12:1-3)
c. To disciples: be Witnesses (Acts 1:8)
- Common Objections and Excuses
a. “Cannot leave my Family/Relationships” (Luke 9:60)
b. “Financial cost is too great” (Mark 10:17-31)
c. “Not my Neighbor” (Luke 10:29-37)
- Only 2 Choices:
a. Go (Great Commission, Matthew 28:18-20)
b. Or Send (2 Cor 11:8)
Application Challenge:
Missions Goer/Sender Development Map
“That Jesus did not command all his followers to sell all their possessions gives comfort only to the kind of people to whom he would issue that command.“ - Robert Gundry
What God is calling all of us to do
What about:
retirement savings?
saving for kids education?
inheritance?
The one word from Paul that gives us hope: He says, “I have _________________.” (Phil 4:11)
The Video shared is with Tom and Bree Hsieh. Their life in Pomona, CA.
Definition of Downward Mobility:
To be content with what you have in a world that says you don’t have enough, and to find your ultimate contentment in Jesus Christ - Eugene Cho
Paul’s word:
We don’t need all this stuff to be _____, _____ is enough
Two Differences:
There is a difference between, “What I want“ versus “What I need”
There is a difference between what is eternal versus what isn’t
The Application:
Be _______ with what you have
How Jesus changed the world
The one thing we must do
Objections(?)
Go
Baptizing
- ___________________
Blind spot = a bias, or area of ignorance, that one has but is often unaware of
We can grow blind spots in our faith and worship.
We are instructed by God to love others, but sadly we can develop blind spots to our failure to do so. (v.3-5)
A root cause for our blind spots is our pride.
“Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only out of having more of it than the next man... It is the comparison that makes you proud: the pleasure of being above the rest. Once the element of competition is gone, pride is gone.”
― C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
To love God means worshiping Him, but that’s more than just going to church on Sundays. It means giving full attention to God’s command to tangibly love people who are suffering or hurting in the world. (v.6-7, 9-10)
Faith “blind spots” cause us to be spiritually sick.
Good news, we are restored by God when we restore others (v.8, 11-12)
Remember this: Helping others, helping us! (like a boomerang)
According to James’ teaching it seems that miracles should be happening frequently in the community of faith.
Why don’t they?
James doesn’t expect us to analyze his words but to _______________ them.
Is James saying it is always God‘s will to heal you?
Two reasons why we don’t see miracles happening everyday.
“Just like us”: the shocking example that James gives.
Laura Ho shares about her experience at the Richmond Eye Screening. This is the first time Laura has gone to this.
A video is towards the end of the message. To view it go to https://youtu.be/YXtSTWNSRM0
Righteousness = Justice + Holiness
Worthless Religion vs. True Religion
(Disobedience vs. Obedience)
A. Signs of Worthless Religion (v.26):
-
Ungodly talk coming out of us
-
Going through the motions of being religious
B. Signs of True Religion (v.27):
-
Actions demonstrating justice (Love People)
-
Behaviors demonstrating holiness (Love God)
Take Home Truth:
True religion loves God, loves people, and serves the world.
Intro:
You are at the doctor’s. She sits you down, and says, “It doesn’t look good.”
Your boss pulls you into his office. He tells you,”We have to let you go.”
You are on the phone with the caretaker about the latest crisis with your elderly parent, and in the background your teenager yells out, “I hate you!”
Your brain is swirling. Your blood pressure is rising. What to do?
Take Home Point:
When the trials of life rock your boat, God’s wisdom will get you through the rough waters.
From James,
Don’t freak out.
-
Although “S_____ happens,” the process will produce steadfastness. (James 1:3-4)
-
Don’t run first to friends for advice.
Accept God’s invitation for His wisdom. (James 1:5)
Don’t treat God like a genie.
Without waffling, trust God totally. (James 1:6-8)
God = Steadfastness
-
James is not saying be joyful about the suffering, but rather be joyful in what it ________________________.
-
James is saying that you are incomplete...without suffering.
What only suffering can cultivate in you:
H __________________
C __________________
F __________________
F __________________
What is the difference between acceptance and affirmation?
Jesus always starts with love not the law.
What is the difference between acceptance and affirmation?
Jesus always starts with love not the law.
William Cheung shares his experience of CLC's All Church Retreat at Redwood Christian Park Boulder Creek, CA.
Unfortunately, the session was not miked. There is a lot of background noise. It's worth the while if you bear through it.
Cultural and societal viewpoints often influence how we think about things like singleness. And singleness is so intertwined with marriage. Projecting misconceptions about either upon other people can be hurtful. Instead of listening to the world’s voice, let’s see what God has to say about being single.
From Apostle Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth:
Being single is not bad. Being single is actually “good.” (v.8) Conflict with OT?
Genesis 2:18, “Not good for man to be alone.”
Not if singleness is a “gift from God.” (v.7)
Singleness is not a disease that necessarily needs to be cured. But can be a distraction, requiring self-control. (v.9)
If “burning with passion”, get married!
Pastoral counsel: why purity?
Singleness is not always a choice, but only a passing season.
For example: widowed, separated, or divorced (v.8, 11)
Hope for what’s to come. Time is passing. (v.29, 31)
Marriage is only temporal. (Matthew 22:30)
For singles, the grass is NOT “greener on the other side of the fence,” and has advantages.
Free from marital anxieties. (v.32-34)
Undivided devotion to be with God. (v.35)
Matthew 19:12, “For the sake of the kingdom of heaven.”
Single or married, both are good; both designed by God to portray the Gospel and fulfill His mission. (v.17, 24)
THE SEX TALK
Sex is ________________ (Proverbs 5:19)
Sex is not __________ but ____________ (1 Corinthians 7:3-5)
Sex is for ______________ between two people united on all levels (Genesis 2:24, 1 Corinthians 6:17)
- Sex is for deepening unity as the ____________ go by
This is an edited version of Atticus Lim's testimony interview and his baptism.
*Unedited version and video on our facebook page www.facebook.com/christian.layman.church
From Matthew 25,
Jesus will separate out posers from the genuine. (v.32)
Jesus loves the least and anyone who also does the same. (v.40)
Clearly better to be “sheep” than “goat”. (v.46)
Take Home Truth:
Jesus doesn’t want religious, but rewards the righteous who recklessly love the least.
How to Love the Least:
Feed the hungry and thirsty.
Shelter and clothe the homeless.
Care for the sick and imprisoned.
Parable about Jesus walking on water to his disciples.
What causes Peter to sink?
What waves will you come across in your journey of life?
If you rather, there is a pdf transcipt available. Just press on the link.
Includes audio to a short video from The Bible Project on Matthew. To view it go to https://thebibleproject.com/explore/matthew/
Parable about Jesus walking on water to his disciples.
What causes Peter to sink?
What waves will you come across in your journey of life?
If you rather, there is a pdf transcipt available. Just press on the link.
Includes audio to a short video from The Bible Project on Matthew. To view it go to https://thebibleproject.com/explore/matthew/
We will cover two parables:
The Parable of the Weeds
The Mustard Seed and the Leaven
Read the pdf transcript for more details.
We will cover two parables:
The Parable of the Weeds
The Mustard Seed and the Leaven
Read the pdf transcript for more details.
Life is hard and will drain you of joy, unless we commit to a habit of honoring the Sabbath.
Sabbath: a day of rest and worship.
Reminders:
- Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath. (Matthew 12:8)
Know who is Lord!
- Jesus invites us to himself for restoration.
(Matthew 11:28-29)
We need Jesus for soul rest.
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Suggestions for Sabbath:
Physical rest
Worship
Read scripture
Family time
Serve those in need
“Do you believe God, Our Heavenly Father, loves you?”
How you answer this question reveals whether or not you can love others as God commands.
1 John 4:19 says, “We love because he first loved us.”
This seems to imply to love others requires us to know God’s love for ourselves. We can’t give away what we don’t have.
Jesus would answer for himself,”Yes!”
From Matthew 3, Baptism of Jesus, we learn:
How God the Father loved his Son Jesus, and how we can love others likewise.
(Five Love Languages, by Dr. Gary Chapman)
a. Acts of service (v.15)
b. Quality time (v.16)
c. Receiving gifts (v.16)
d. Touch (v.16)
e. Words of affirmation (v.17)
- More importantly, Jesus’ baptism tells us God loves us too. (v.13-15)
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Matthew 7:7-8
7 “ASK and it will be given to you; SEEK and you will find; KNOCK and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
A: Who Are You ___________________ ?
S: What Are You _________________ ?
K: Why Are You ___________________ ?
ASK, SEEK, & KNOCK
What is the one main idea of this entire message?
What will happen to you if we misunderstand this teaching or take away the wrong message?
Three CLUES…
The MAIN IDEA: Your _____________ must ________ that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law.
The FORMULA:
You have heard it said [blank]…
But I tell you [blank]...
What all SIX “but-I-tell-you-es” have in COMMON:
-
They are impossible to do (by yourself)
-
They are different not in quantity but in quality
-
They are actions and attitudes that can only come from a whole new heart
The MAIN APPLICATION inevitably leads you to a _____, a ______, and a whole new heart!
So what does this LOOK LIKE?
• When you go back home?
• With an EGR person?
• For parents?
• The next time you feel unappreciated?
Certified = endorsed reliable, verified, validated
Before Jesus started his ministry on earth, God allowed him to be tested by Satan. Although tempted, he did not fall to temptation.
Jesus is worthy to be our Savior.
From Matthew 4, Satan tested Jesus 3 times, tempting him in 3 naturally occurring, innocent desires or needs:
- The Need for Sustenance (Hunger). (v.2-4)
Application: Resisting Satan’s temptations requires supernatural spiritual power from the Holy Spirit and from knowing God’s Word.
- The Need for Security (Protection). (v.5-7)
Application: Trusting God means waiting on God’s timing, so that we are neither reckless nor overly cautious.
- The Need for Significance (Power). (v.8-10)
Application: When we worship and bow down to God, Satan retreats.
Why are we going through the Book of Matthew (BOM)?
Intro to BOM
• The author and his self-deprecating identifying clue (10:3)
• The five sections or “chunks”
• The original audience and purpose
• The emphases of BOM: Jesus is the ________ ____
Two Simple Words
• Leave everything behind
• Get to know the One who is supremely worthy
• How?
I commit to reading the Gospel of Matthew devotionally for the next six months, doing my best to go through one chapter per week.
A suggested method for Bible Reading: A.P.T.A.T. taken from J. Piper (Admit you can do nothing without God/Pray for help/Trust a specific promise/Act/Thank Him for His provision)
__________________________________________________ signature date
A key difference between the first followers of Jesus and American Christians
The Twelve
Who were they?
What were the group dynamics like?
A Learning Community
What was the method of learning?
A Loving Family
What did they fight about, and how did Jesus finally get through to them?
How it ended (and how their story relates to yours)
When Jesus (and Paul) talk about “going to church” they mean something very different from American Christians.
Mark 3: 31-35
“Going to church” isn’t being a ________ of a _______ but rather it’s being a ______ of a ______.
What “going to church” meant for Paul: 1 Cor 12: 26
So now what are we called to do?
-
Join a group
-
Go deeper
Mark 10: 29-30
According to Jesus, Christian community is not something you ____ __ do, but something you ___ __ be a part of.
A last word to parents
If from the beginning, as seen in Acts 2, followers of Jesus Christ gathered together in community, why should that be any different today?
Life is good together in Christian community, and even better in small groups.
- Spiritual Growth
a. Learning (v.42)
b. Worship (v.42, 43, 46, 47)
- Character Growth
a. “Family time” (v.42, 44, 46)
b. Social action (v.45, 47)
- Numerical Growth
a. Soul winning (v.47)
Do you know who Manoah’s wife was?
Don’t feel bad if you don’t; the Bible does not even tell us her name. Yet she is a great woman of faith in the Bible. Her story should be an inspiration and a hope for anyone who has not been treated with respect or trust by others; in her situation, by her own husband Manoah. Different from the world, God chose to use Manoah’s wife in a mighty way to save the Israelites, even though others, especially her husband, thought she was insignificant and not trustworthy. God is full of surprises.
For God to be able to use us for His purposes, we need to be like Manoah’s wife.
From Judges 13 (based on J.I. Packer, Never Beyond Hope), comparing Manoah to his wife:
-
While Manoah knew only religion, Manaoh’s wife truly knew (loved) God.
-
While Manoah was prideful, Manoah’s wife loved her husband by accepting her position with great humility.
-
While Manoah was self-centered, Manoah’s wife was ready to serve (minister to) her husband.
“But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.” (1 Corinthians 1:27 ESV)
"When [Barnabas] arrived and saw the evidence of God's grace, he was overjoyed and encouraged everyone to remain fully committed to the Lord." Acts 11:23
I wonder what part of Barnabas' story means the most to you?
I wonder what part of his story you would like to leave out?
I wonder if there is any part of this story that helps you live out your own story more faithfully....
If you want to read more about Barnabas these are the places you can find him in scripture. Acts 4;36, Acts 9:27, Acts 11, Acts 12:25, Acts 13, Acts 14, Acts 15, 1 Corinthians 9:6, Galations 2 and Colossians 4:10.
A Final Word For Those Who Are Suffering
-
Humble =
-
Timing - “It’s easy to bow, but hard to wait”
-
He Cares
-
Devil Prowling (def: to quietly sneak up to you so as to pounce)
-
Eternity - What is the last 10 years of your life compared to the first ten million?
If I could summarize this scripture with one word it would be ____________
Points from the Text
• Don’t be surprised by the down curve
• If you’re going to suffer, suffer for the right reason
• God’s judgment for His people is not punitive but purifying
So What?
To be insulted for Christ is to be ___________, socially __________, or to lose __________.
Eight ways to “bear the name of Christ” (that might get you “insulted”)
-
Tell people you are a Christian
-
Pray before your meals
-
Invite someone to church
-
Honor the “emperor” (while voicing disagreement)
-
Share stories of God’s provision in your life
-
Go to church on Sundays, religiously
-
Share about what Jesus did on the cross and what it means
-
Befriend the person that no one wants to befriend
I. The ___________ of Jesus (v. 18-20)
-
_______________ to authority
-
__________________ for righteousness
II. The ___________________ of His suffering (v. 21-23)
III. The ____________________ of His suffering (v. 24-25)
SIX Descriptions of Who You Are (as a believer)
-
A people for His own __________
-
People who have received _______.
ONE Purpose statement: to ________ the excellencies of Him
Ideas to consider:
• What you do is determined by who you are
• If you believe in God it’s because God chose you first
• You are all priests! (It is the role of a priest to represent God)
• The church is not just a museum of saints but a hospital for sinners.
Have you ever needed a pep talk when you found yourself struggling? From a friend, a coach, a boss?
That is what the Apostle Peter was doing in his letter to the early Christians.
From 1 Peter 1:6-9 (NIV),
-
Rejoice in spite of life’s realities. (v.6)
-
Proven faith brings praise to God. (v.7)
-
Love + “Believe In” = Faith (v.8)
“Believe In” = Trust
- End result of faith journey is salvation. (v.9)
We are in trouble if our faith is dependent on us.
Thankfully our faith is in the source of our faith, that being Jesus Christ.
Application:
Where are you with Jesus?
Curious? Ask questions and learn more.
Ready? Consider baptism.
Committed? How can you trust more?
At the end of Holy Week God gives us the greatest gift ever.
With gratefulness,
The best gift we can give to God is repping Him in this world.
How? From 1 Peter 2:11-12,
-
Get into mission shape. (v. 11)
-
Do good, do more good, and even more good, for others to see. (v. 12)
Application:
Go experience a short-term mission first-hand.
For example, the CLC Eye Screening in Richmond.
God’s Game Plan
- Jesus doesn’t say not me but you, but rather __ through ___.
God’s Plan A is people through the power of His Spirit.
You are called to wait upon His Spirit.
- We think _____ but Jesus thinks ___.
Jesus was not just thinking of reaching more individuals but more people groups.
You are called to care passionately about extending God’s glory to the ends of the earth.
Many of us are like the prophet Jonah and don’t care about global missions. Yet we should care, because it is God’s purpose for his people.
From the story of Jonah, the reluctant missionary:
-
Reluctance is the norm. (Chapter 1)
-
Ever so often we need a devine correction. (Chapter 2)
-
Believe it or not, the gospel has power. (Chapter 3)
-
Respect the Creator not the creation. (Chapter 4)
Our God-given identity IS to be missionaries.
Follow up:
-
Join a home group that is studying the Missions Curriculum, especially created for this sermon series.
-
Develop a heart for missions by going on a short term mission, like the Richmond Eye Screening July 17-20, 2017.
“Carry one another’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the requirements of the law of Christ [that is, the law of Christian love]. 3 For if anyone thinks he is something [special] when [in fact] he is nothing [special except in his own eyes], he deceives himself. 4 But each one must carefully scrutinize his own work [examining his actions, attitudes, and behavior], and then he can have the personal satisfaction and inner joy of doing something commendable without comparing himself to another. 5 For every person will have to bear [with patience] his own load [of faults and shortcomings for which he alone is responsible].” Galatians 6:2-5 AMP
He gave himself to: Service Acts 20:17-19
He served Jesus his Lord.
He served with humility .
He served through the pain.
He gave himself to the: Gospel Acts 20:20-21
The Gospel needs to be believed.
The Gospel needs to be shared.
The Gospel needs to be showed.
He gave: Himself Acts 20:22-24
He gave up his loves.
He gave up his longings.
He gave up his life.
He gave till it: Hurt Acts 20:25-38
He hurt over those who would leave.
He hurt over those would stumble.
He hurt over those who wouldn’t listen .
A Prayer of Surrender
Loving Father,
I surrender to you today with all my heart and soul. Please come into my heart in a deeper way. I say, "Yes" to you today. I open all the secret places of my heart to you and say, "come on in." Jesus, you are the Lord of my whole life. I believe in You and commit you You as my Lord and Savior. I hold nothing back.
Holy Spirit, bring me to a deeper knowledge of the person of Jesus Christ. I surrender my all to you: my time, my treasures, my talents, my health, my family, my resources, my work, my relationships , my successes, and my failures. I release it all and let it go.
I surrender my understandings of how things "ought" to be, my choices and my will. I surrender to you the promises I have kept and the promises I have failed to keep. I surrender my weaknesses and my strengths to you. I surrender my emotions, my fears, my insecurities, and my sexuality.
Lord, I surrender my whole life to you, the past, the present, and the future. In sickness and in health, in life and in death, I belong to you and you alone.
The world says: do it yourself!
But the gospel message is not do but ___.
Justification is the gracious act of God by which God declares you righteous solely through faith in Jesus Christ.
New life in Christ comes not by doing but by “faithing”.
Faith is not just mental assent, but complete trust and surrender.
What do you need to completely trust and surrender to God?
Jesus went to the cross to set us free.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Freedom in Christ means:
- We keep in step with the Gospel – free from legalism to love God and others. (Gal 5:1-15)
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” (v.6)
- We keep in step with the Spirit – showing Fruit of the Spirit in us to love and serve others. (Gal 5:16-26)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (v.22)
Advent is a time of preparation; more specifically, for the coming of Jesus. Why just limit this to a month? Shouldn’t we do this all the time? For one urgent reason, “Yes!” People’s eternal lives are at stake.
Let’s be “turn signals” for Jesus, so people know Jesus is coming (again).
Like a turn signal, John:
- Got people’s attention by how wild he looked. (v.1, 3-6)
Question:
Do I look “wild” to other people when they look at me?
- Told others a message, mainly the coming of Jesus. (v.2, 11)
Question:
How do I share about Jesus?
- Challenged others to change direction. (v.7-9)
Question:
Do I challenge people’s worldview?
- Warned of danger if message not heeded. (v.10, 12)
Question:
Can I warn others about Judgment Day? Testimony?
The problem of personal entropy
Is this true for you?
Matthew 24: 36 - 44
- What does Jesus mean when he says “stay awake” and “be ready”?
Cultivate an intentional LIFESTYLE.
- Is Jesus calling you to live in a constant state of fear?
We do not do good to be SAVED, we are SAVED to do good.
So what now? (Two testing questions)
If you were to stand in JUDGMENT before Jesus next week, what would you do today?
Is there any part of my life that is inconsistent with the gospel?
Verse 17a:
BE A GOOD _______
• Government is a good gift from God
• Jesus gave legitimacy to a pagan state
• Two implications…
Verse 17b:
KNOW YOU ARE ULTIMATELY ___________ TO GOD
• (We need a Savior!)
• But what if Caesar and God disagree?
What does this mean going forward?
• What if racist laws are passed?
• What about speaking up for the unborn?
We all need to blow off steam sometimes: to vent, to scream, to throw a tantrum. Can we do this with God? Sure.
In Psalm 13:1-4, David is venting and feels God is not answering him.
Big Idea:
When God seems silent, He is just waiting for you to be quiet.
Why be quiet?
Practice reflection.
John Dewey (educational reformer):
“You don’t learn from experience. You learn from reflecting on experience.”
So you can:
-
Remember (v.6),
-
Which leads to Trust (v.5),
-
And brings Blessing (v.5).
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 42:10)
Three baptisms: Jared Chin, Kira Chin and Tate Tong. Listen to their testimonies and baptisms.
“If God would only give me _____ then I would be happy.”
(But what if God has already given you everything you need to be happy…in Himself?)
A WORD ON JOY
God plus ___________ is everything.
A WORD ON HOPE
“pleasures forevermore”
Pastor Andrew shares a video at the end of the message from his India mission trip.
The scripture teaches us not just to be satisfied in God, but to also be hungry for Him.
If it is true that God has called us to be hungry and homesick for Him, what will happen to us if we are not and continue not to be?
Matthew 9: 14-15 • When Jesus is in the house, there is _______. • Is Jesus talking about the three days between Good Friday and Easter, or is he talking about ___?
Why Fast? We fast because we miss Jesus. We fast because we are homesick for Jesus. We fast because we are hungry for more of Him.
What Holds Us Back What keeps us from being hungry and homesick for Jesus?
“Wanna know what the greatest enemy of God is? It’s not poison. It’s apple pie. It is not the banquet of the wicked that dulls our appetite for heaven, but endless nibbling at the table of the world. The greatest adversary of love to God is not his enemies but his gifts.
What keeps you? __________________________________________________
The Next 40 Days • The Goal: to experience a greater hunger and satisfaction in God. • The Attitude: Why not try something new? • The Prayer of Fasting: “God, I am hungry, but I want You more.”
Slow Down. Reset. Listen.
Luke 10:38-42
I. Sitting (v. 39)
• Mary’s posture:
• Mary’s purpose:
II. Serving (v. 40-41)
• John 15:5
III. Seeking (v. 41-42)
• The example of Jesus: Mark 1:21-37; Luke 5:12-16
• The good portion is Jesus: Psalm 27:4; Psalm 16:5; Psalm 73:26
• Access, Invitation, & Relationship: Hebrews 4:14-16
Slow Down. Reset. Listen.
Luke 10:38-42
I. Sitting (v. 39)
• Mary’s posture:
• Mary’s purpose:
II. Serving (v. 40-41)
• John 15:5
III. Seeking (v. 41-42)
• The example of Jesus: Mark 1:21-37; Luke 5:12-16
• The good portion is Jesus: Psalm 27:4; Psalm 16:5; Psalm 73:26
• Access, Invitation, & Relationship: Hebrews 4:14-16
Review
• Love begins with _______.
• Whenever you see a speck in someone’s eye, first reflect on your own ___.
• The key to forgiving someone is by doing it as a ________ to God’s love for you.
• Love takes the ______ place.
Today we focus not on how or what, but on WHY(?)
Why do any of the above? Why love sacrificially?
- We should love others (to the point of sacrifice) because of ___.
• Matthew 22:39
• Ephesians 5:28
Love seeks its ___ in the ___ of the other person.
- We should love others (to the point of sacrifice) because of ______.
Hebrews 10: 34; 11: 24-26; 12:2
What do you call a person who focuses on the next ten days?
What do you call a person who focuses on the next ten years?
What do you call a person who focuses on the next ___ ______ _____?
We are commanded by God to love people. This is not optional. To love people means we are to meet their needs tangibly, and not merely say words like “I will pray for you.”
A Love Like This means we recognize people’s needs and respond. So where do we begin?
Following Jesus’ example from the story of the Feeding of the Four Thousand in Mark 8:
-
We are to notice. (v.1-2)
-
We are to listen. (v.3b)
-
We are to project. (v.3a)
-
We are to act. (v.4-8)
Like the disciples in Mark 8, often we have resistance to help others, especially those who are different from us. But God gives no exclusions. So how can we overcome our fears or barriers?
-
Dependence on Jesus (v.8)
-
Have a plan (v.6)
Response:
Who has God called you to love? What needs do you recognize and how will you respond?
Loving those in need makes us close to Jesus. (Matthew 25:40)
The problem: you want to be the greatest
But according to Jesus, greatness is:
- Someone who doesn’t…
- Someone who is focused on…
Put these together: love takes the ______ place.
God commands us to love others. If we are honest, this is not easy to do, especially when people we are to love are hard to love. Have you been there? So what to do?
When love is hard, our love depends on God:
- To have compassion for others. (v. 27a)
If you are struggling, try first to “Hold Space” for them.
-
To forgive others knowing we are forgiven. (v. 27b)
-
To love others because God first loved us. (v. 33)
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, “I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. (1 John 4:19-21)
The Four Horsemen (according to John Gottman) are: 1. Defensiveness 2. Stonewalling 3. _________ 4. ________
The attitude behind both of these is putting yourself on a ______ self-righteous plane.
Matthew 7: 1-6 • Beam Research - looking at yourself _____ • “Do I do that?” • “Have I done something similar?” • “What’s my flaw?”
How Beam Research is like bad breath…
So does loving people more mean being honest less?
(But before you take this too far, read v. 6)
Introduction to Series If Jesus loved people so much that he would die for them, then how did that same love get expressed when he would live for them?
How did Jesus love the people in his life?
What can Jesus teach us about loving the people in our lives?
• How can you become a more loving person? • How do you love a person who is incredibly hard to love? • How do you forgive someone impossible to forgive? • Does loving people more mean being honest less? • What do you do when love turns into sacrifice?
Today’s message
Mark 1:40-42 1. LOVE IS ALSO COMMUNICATED BY _____.
Luke 7:11-17 2. LOVE BEGINS WITH _______.
Why is this naturally not happening?
Who is one person that you can apply this with?
Luke 12:13-21: False security through saving for retirement
Luke 12:22-31: True security and freedom
Luke 12:32-34: Maximizing a lifetime Kingdom investment portfolio
“The Church must take right ground in regards to politics…God will bless or curse the nation according to the [political] course Christians take.” – Charles Finney
“When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan.” (Proverbs 29:2)
A. What are Christians to do as citizens?
-
Be salt and light. (Matthew 5:13-14)
-
Be peaceful, law-abiding citizens. (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-15)
-
Pray for and honor our government leaders. (1 Tim 2:1-3)
-
Faithfully pay our taxes. (Matthew 22:21; Romans 13:7)
-
Work for the highest good of ALL people. (Galatians 6:10)
-
Promote godly principles in politics and government, for example through our voting. (Proverbs 29:2)
B. How to vote?
- Biblically mandated issues can guide us:
a. Confronting sin and moral decay. (Proverbs 14:34; Isaiah 5:20)
b. Speaking out for innocent life, including unborn children. (Proverbs 31:8; Psalm 139:13-16; Isaiah 44:2)
c. Defending the poor and oppressed. (Isaiah 10:1-2)
- Character matters when choosing our leaders (Ex.18:21), and we will be accountable (1 Tim 5:22).
C. Ultimately our trust is in God more than politics. (Romans 13:1-7)
Emotional Health as part of a Christian’s discipleship process will lead to:
-
Redefinition of sin
-
Reorienting us to the goal of discipleship
-
Clear steps to the process of transformation
Emotional Health as part of a Christian’s discipleship process will lead to:
-
Redefinition of sin
-
Reorienting us to the goal of discipleship
-
Clear steps to the process of transformation
Intro: Have you guys ever noticed how people can look at the same thing and come away with a completely different conclusion?
There is so much at stake based on how we SEE things.
People say “seeing is believing” but the reverse is equally true…
Main Idea: God is doing miracles everyday, but we must have the ______ of _______ to see them!
In order to see the gospel we must see two things clearly: our ______ and His ________.
Jesus wants your life with Him to be incredibly __________!
Everyone worships; it’s not a matter of IF you do, it’s a matter of WHAT.
So where have you been looking to satisfy your soul?
Sin is what happens when you look to a good thing to be an ultimate thing.
Jesus calls us to do two things: to ______ away and to _____.
Have you ever been told you could not do something?
Have restrictions or barriers, whether intentional or not, ever excluded you from things or others?
Have you ever been looked down upon or marginalized, because of the color of your skin, your gender, or social class?
If so, you can place yourself in the story of the “Woman at the Well.” This Samaritan woman had at least 3 strikes against her according to her community.
But Jesus chose to engage with this woman, even if it meant breaking down walls that separate, to tell her the good news. He, unlike others, does not forsake people like her.
We, who are followers of Jesus, share Jesus’ mission to reach others with the gospel, which may force us to “Get Out There,” and, if required, to break down barriers like him.
How do we become Wall Breakers?
From John 4:4-26,
-
“Walk across the room” to engage, even breaking barriers if necessary. (v.7)
-
Build trust by not condemning. (v.16-19)
-
Tell the truth that Jesus is the Christ. (v.25-26)
Application:
Who is Jesus asking you to be a Wall Breaker to?
For the transcript and actual video of Donovan Livingston's Speech go to: http://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/16/05/lift
1)Tell your story
2)Believe that everyone needs Jesus
3)Be intentional about sharing the good news
1)Begin to build trust with our “enemies”
2)Make time to walk across the room
3)Accept without judgment
4)Ask questions, listen and learn
5)Love and keep on loving
The main driving idea: you ________ be born again.
Secondary idea: being born again is not something you can control or __________________, instead it is something you must experience and _________________ .
The culminating question: what does “born again” mean?
It is to be __________________________ ____________, and it means that you are not in control of the ____________ .
So what can we do?
Jesus, when he was here on earth, had a mission. He made disciples so that they could continue to make more disciples. We, who follow Jesus, therefore should be “Getting Out There” to share about Jesus to others. For us to be effective, we should invite Jesus to come too.
From John 2:1-11, when we invite Jesus to the party:
-
When problems or challenges happen, we can bring them to Jesus. (v. 3)
-
When Jesus is actively working, he will use us to serve alongside him in the work. (v. 7)
-
When Jesus shows his power and glory, we will enjoy that transformational power in us too. (v. 9-11)
“[The master of the banquet] said, ‘You have saved the best till now.’” (John 2: 11)
GO MAKE DISCIPLES (Why this series?)
INTRO GOSPEL OF JOHN
• Making disciples is a _____ effort
• Don’t give your friend an instant to ______, give them a place to _______.
• Without Andrew you wouldn’t have _____.
• ___________ Evangelism is friends sharing with friends, and family members sharing with family members.
• Jesus is the one person in the world with both the _________ to rename you and the _________ to call out the best in you.
You need to _________ your life in order to _________ it!
Jesus _________ His life so that ________ could be saved!
Baptism follows
Risk is something you do that has the possibility of _________ or _______.
Some things are __________________ risking for.
God does not keep us safe from a ___________ but he does keep us safe from a ________________.
At some point we must ask: which is worse, to risk and ____________ or to not risk at all?
Challenge: starting tomorrow, do one thing that is "scary but necessary" for Christ. In short, take a risk.
**Video at end of the message is a portion of Francis Chan's message at Challenge Conference 2006. It may be seen on youtube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y46YoVzX0VM. We do not have the rights to have it include it in our podcast. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Shared Identity:
-
The bad news.
-
What God has done.
-
The good news.
-
So what??
Shared Identity.
-
The bad news.
-
What God has done.
-
The good news.
-
So what??
Cosmic Mystery:
-
Complex.
-
Hidden until revealed.
-
Have a custodian.
So What?
-
Pray.
-
Suffer.
-
Read and tell the story of God (again).
The Questions we dare not ask when it comes to caring for those in need:
• What if I am too busy to help someone in need?
• What if I don’t have the gift of compassion?
• What if the person in need is not starving? (They have a TV at home!)
• What if they are ungrateful and entitled?
• What if they use their money to feed an addiction?
• What if they are in a bad situation because of the poor decisions they made?
Note: Towards the end of the message, Pastor Calvin refers to a video. Please go to the CBN website via this url: http://tinyurl.com/hx4jazh . We do not have the copyright to reproduce it on our podcast. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Lent is the season when Christians around the world draw closer to God in preparation for Easter. This is a good time to have a DTR with God.
DTR = Define the relationship
Like dating, is your relationship with God causing you:
- To ache for Him? (Psalm 42:1-2)
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.”
- To have Him on your mind all the time?
Or hear His voice? (Deut. 11:18, John 10:14, 27)
“Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds.”
Challenge: Enjoying God through scripture memorization
A few useful examples:
a. Bible on the go
b. “Heat of the moment” situations in life
c. Sharing with others
Application:
Memorize 1 Cor. 13:1-7, Psalm 23, or Matthew 5:3-12
- To talk about Him to everyone? (John 4:28-29)
“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man…’”
Are you teachable?
Proverbs 12:15 - “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”
• Don’t _______ yourself
• Be a life-long _______.
Proverbs 15:31 - “The ear that listens to ____-_______ reproof will dwell among the wise.”
• “Constructive Feedback”
• Give others __________ to speak truth into your life.
Proverbs 15:22 “Without counsel plans fail but with many ________ they succeed.”
• Seek God first and then ask others.
(Within the first few moments of the message, Pastor Andrew will refer to a video. To hear it go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgRoiTWkBHU.)
You become like the people you are closest to so choose your friends wisely.
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Proverbs 13:20
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” Proverbs 12:26
Life is hard; you need the strength that only good friends can provide.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Conversations take place everyday of our lives. At home, at school, at work. These talks happen over tables in kitchens, restaurants and lunchrooms. How we treat one another can be demonstrated by how we speak to one another.
The Book of Proverbs has some wise instructions for us:
A. Talk to heal, not hurt. (Proverbs 12:18)
B. Talk truth lovingly. (Proverbs18:21a, Ephesians 4:15)
C. Talk with discretion. (Proverbs 17:27-28, Proverbs 15:28)
To do:
-
Ask for God’s help to discipline your tongue.
-
Affirm someone this week with your words.
-
Optional: Forgive someone who has hurt you by their words.
OUR CHURCH'S GREATEST PROBLEM: __ ____ _____ ___.
How can we change this?
-
We can't, but ___ ___ . Therefore we need to ___ ___ it.
-
A huge resource that God has given us to enjoy Him by is the _____.
"This is a..."
One method that that three spiritual giants and one pastor all agree is effective... _____________________________________
Here's a good way to do it! (adapted from Andrew Davis):
A. Day One: read Ephesians 1:1 out loud 10 times. Then cover the page and recite it 10 times. You're done for the day.
B. Day Two: recite yesterday's verse, Ephesians 1:1 ten times, being sure to include the verse number. Look in the Bible if you need to, just to refresh your memory. Now, do your new verse. Read Ephesians 1:2 out loud 10 times. Then cover the page and recited 10 times. You're done for the day.
C. Day Three: recite yesterday's verse first, Ephesians 1:2 ten times. Again, you should look in the Bible if you need to, just refresh your memory. Old versus next, all together: recite Ephesians 1:1-2 together once, being sure to include the verse numbers. Now do your new verse. Read Ephesians 1:3 out loud ten times, looking at each word carefully. Then cover the page and recite 10 times. You're done for the day.
- If you take this method, and turn it to prayer and worship by the power of the Holy Spirit, you will have a powerful means of enjoying God!
(If reading option is desired, download the pdf file for additional notes and links.)
This seminar is part of the Home Base collective at CLC.
Home Base offers encouraging practical insights and supportive community to deepen your family's faith in Jesus.
(If reading option is desired, download the pdf file for additional notes and links.)
This seminar is part of the Home Base collective at CLC.
Home Base offers encouraging practical insights and supportive community to deepen your family's faith in Jesus.
There are videos associated with this podcast that are best communicated visually. Please go to the following websites to find them: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JPu7VJJuhc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWRag1QKwTA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNPUpkbxT38
What do we mean when we say that God is *sovereign? • He is B_____ all things (Ps. 90:2; Col. 1:17) • He CREATED all things (Gen. 1:1; John 1:3) • He U______ all things (Col 1:17; and Heb. 1:3) • He KNOWS all things (Ps. 4, 6; Isa. 46:10) • He CAN DO all things (Jer. 32:27; Luke 1:37) • He ACCOMPLISHES all things (Isa. 14:24; 46:10) • He R____ all things (1 Chron. 29:11-12; Dan. 4:34-35) • He is I__ C______ of all things (Job 4:2; Rom. 8: 28)
What is the practical application? • Surrender to God all that you are and all that you have • Go through the day, preaching to yourself, "everything that comes my way is either allowed or decreed by God who loves me so much that He gave up His son for me." • Absolutely refuse to worry
What do we mean when we say that God is *sovereign? • He is B_____ all things (Ps. 90:2; Col. 1:17) • He CREATED all things (Gen. 1:1; John 1:3) • He U______ all things (Col 1:17; and Heb. 1:3) • He KNOWS all things (Ps. 4, 6; Isa. 46:10) • He CAN DO all things (Jer. 32:27; Luke 1:37) • He ACCOMPLISHES all things (Isa. 14:24; 46:10) • He R____ all things (1 Chron. 29:11-12; Dan. 4:34-35) • He is I__ C______ of all things (Job 4:2; Rom. 8: 28)
What is the practical application? • Surrender to God all that you are and all that you have • Go through the day, preaching to yourself, "everything that comes my way is either allowed or decreed by God who loves me so much that He gave up His son for me." • Absolutely refuse to worry
THERE ARE FEW EXPERIENCES IN LIFE THAT ARE BETTER THAN THIS...
"MY FOOD IS TO DO THE WILL OF GOD." (v. 34)
DIFFERENT ROLES, SAME TEAM (v. 36-38)
LIFT UP YOUR EYES... (v. 35)
SERIES APPLICATION:
-
PRAY for the world on a regular basis.
-
GO on a short term missions trip.
-
BEFRIEND a missionary.
-
SHARE your faith with another.
TRUTH 1: ALL PEOPLE HAVE ____________ OF GOD • Romans 1: 19-20
TRUTH 2: ALL PEOPLE ________ GOD • Romans 1: 21-23
TRUTH 3: ALL PEOPLE STAND _______ AND ___________ FOR REJECTING GOD • Romans 3: 10-12, 19
TRUTH 4: GOD HAS MADE A WAY OF ______________FOR THE LOST • Romans 3: 21-22
TRUTH 5: CHIST COMMANDS THE CHURCH TO MAKE THE ____________ KNOWN TO ALL PEOPLES • Romans 10: 13-15
- This message based on chapter 7 of "Radical" written by David Platt
Do you think it is possible for there to be an "invisible gorilla" in how we see the Great Commission?
God has called you to enjoy His _______ AND to extend His _______ to the ends of the earth.
You have the joyful responsibility of making disciples ___ ____ _________.
This movement is seen throughout all of scripture.
"But I haven't been called to be a missionary."
The key word here is __________.
So how are you going to respond to this great invitation?
Do you think it is possible for there to be an "invisible gorilla" in how we see the Great Commission?
God has called you to enjoy His _______ AND to extend His _______ to the ends of the earth.
You have the joyful responsibility of making disciples ___ ____ _________.
This movement is seen throughout all of scripture.
"But I haven't been called to be a missionary."
The key word here is __________.
So how are you going to respond to this great invitation?
Where are you in God's Story? Esther 4:8-16
The Story of Esther • The Setting • An Unlikely Hero: Esther • An Unlikely Hero: Now • What’s Your Struggle? • Esther’s Courage • We will also have courage • Our Participation in His Story
Where are you in God's Story? Esther 4:8-16
The Story of Esther • The Setting • An Unlikely Hero: Esther • An Unlikely Hero: Now • What’s Your Struggle? • Esther’s Courage • We will also have courage • Our Participation in His Story
Living with Integrity
We all have places in our walk with God where we know and say one thing but do another. We all have inconsistencies, and these inconsistencies if ignored, have tremendous power to ruin our lives.
A question we must ask that will save us from wasted life and regret:
• Is there any part of my life that is ____________ with my _____?
Living with Integrity
We all have places in our walk with God where we know and say one thing but do another. We all have inconsistencies, and these inconsistencies if ignored, have tremendous power to ruin our lives.
A question we must ask that will save us from wasted life and regret:
• Is there any part of my life that is ____________ with my _____?
Introduction:
Do you find your spiritual life lacking joy? Do you feel the daily grind of trying to be a “good Christian”? Is your faith stagnant and not going anywhere? You might be suffering a disease called Legalism. Grace cures us of this. Grace revives us.
Legalism is living according to your own rules out of your own strength to earn God’s favor.(from David Platt)
In Galatians the Apostle Paul addresses this issue:
-
Grace means we live by God-given rules, not man-given rules. (v.1)
-
Grace means God rescues us, instead of us being self-sufficient. (v.4)
-
Grace means receiving from God a gift that we can’t do anything to earn. (v.3-4)
Reflection
Ask yourself these 3 questions:
-
Do you live by your own rules?
-
Do you rely on your own strength?
-
Do you feel you need to earn God’s favor?
If you answer “yes” to any, you likely suffer from legalism. Pray to God asking for forgiveness and receive again the gift of grace that He freely gives through Jesus Christ.
Introduction:
Do you find your spiritual life lacking joy? Do you feel the daily grind of trying to be a “good Christian”? Is your faith stagnant and not going anywhere? You might be suffering a disease called Legalism. Grace cures us of this. Grace revives us.
Legalism is living according to your own rules out of your own strength to earn God’s favor.(from David Platt)
In Galatians the Apostle Paul addresses this issue:
-
Grace means we live by God-given rules, not man-given rules. (v.1)
-
Grace means God rescues us, instead of us being self-sufficient. (v.4)
-
Grace means receiving from God a gift that we can’t do anything to earn. (v.3-4)
Reflection
Ask yourself these 3 questions:
-
Do you live by your own rules?
-
Do you rely on your own strength?
-
Do you feel you need to earn God’s favor?
If you answer “yes” to any, you likely suffer from legalism. Pray to God asking for forgiveness and receive again the gift of grace that He freely gives through Jesus Christ.
We apologize that the first 10 minutes of the sermon is missing. Please read the transcript to capture the missing audio. Thank you.
Why share Jesus with others?
What two themes emerge from Acts 1:1-11? The P______ and the M______.
The main idea of this message is that the latter without the former leads to scary obligation.
But the latter WITH the former leads to an exciting adventure.
What Jesus commanded his disciples applies to you as well: ______ on the Holy Spirit! We are not called to wait in ______, but to wait in __________.
How do we wait upon the Spirit?
We apologize that the first 10 minutes of the sermon is missing. Please read the transcript to capture the missing audio. Thank you.
Why share Jesus with others?
What two themes emerge from Acts 1:1-11? The P______ and the M______.
The main idea of this message is that the latter without the former leads to scary obligation.
But the latter WITH the former leads to an exciting adventure.
What Jesus commanded his disciples applies to you as well: ______ on the Holy Spirit! We are not called to wait in ______, but to wait in __________.
How do we wait upon the Spirit?
The Vulnerability Test
What we normally do and why it shouldn't continue
The equation: your _________ + God's ________ = __________
Boasting about weakness...really?
The invitation:
Share stories where you are ______ and Christ is ____
Be real and you will show others the real savior
The Vulnerability Test
What we normally do and why it shouldn't continue
The equation: your _________ + God's ________ = __________
Boasting about weakness...really?
The invitation:
Share stories where you are ______ and Christ is ____
Be real and you will show others the real savior
Our society loves to idolize celebrities for their good looks, for their fame and fortune. Sports figures get adulation from fans for being winners, especially MVP’s. Sadly this behavior can creep over into the church. We like certain Christian leaders and preachers for the same reasons we like rock stars. We are influenced by the externals as opposed to more importantly what is in their hearts.
Jesus faced this same problem when he made his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. He was not everyone’s idea of a King. Yet he was truly Israel’s MVP.
Like the crowd, do you ever wish Jesus was a different kind of King? If you choose to make Jesus your MVP, he will help you live a fruitful and fulfilled life as God intended.
Jesus as Most Valuable Player as seen in Matthew 21:1-11,
-
Most (Number One) v.4-5, rode a donkey colt; Different King: not a warhorse.
-
Valuable (irreplaceable, makes you better) v.9, Hosanna; Different King: savior who sacrificed himself
-
Player (team member, actually plays) v.9, Son of David; Different King: fully God, fully man, a servant King
-
Problem: people in the crowd did not recognize Jesus v.10-11, a prophet
Conclusion: If you recognize Jesus as your MVP, your King, then you will be like him and be an MVP to others.
Co-teaching from Nikole Lim and Pastor Andrew Huang.Service and how it related to them.
Unfortunately, the first portion of this message was not recorded.
We have a problem with motivation...
(Life is not about what we have, but what we do with what we have.)
Is this passage saying: FAITH + WORKS = SALVATION??
Rather, it is saying: _____ = _________ + _____
In short, it is saying that Faith _____.
How can WE respond to this message?
What is the number one thing that keeps you from receiving what you have asked for in prayer?
Be a person who prays for things (that are worth praying about) and doesn't give up (until you have an answer from God).
What is wrong in your world that is worthy of crying out to God for?
Don't lose heart. Keep on praying until God gives you an answer, trusting in His wisdom and goodness.
If persistence is enough to get an unjust judge to answer, then HOW MUCH MORE...
What would you do differently on Monday if you really believed this?
What would happen if you persisted in prayer and didn't lose heart?
Nurture this habit and it'll change your life
Three Ways to nurture this Habit (taken from Tim Keller's recent book on prayer) :
-
"Make every pleasure into a channel of adoration" C.S. Lewis
-
Learn from the "collects" of Thomas Cranmer's Common Book of Prayer a. The address - a name of God b. The doctrine - a truth about God's nature that is the basis for the prayer c. The petition - what is being asked for d. The aspiration - what good result will come if the request is granted e. In Jesus' name - this remembers the mediatorial role of Jesus
-
Praising the Attributes of God (see enclosed handout "31 Ways to Praise")
The people of God are people of prayer. God is looking for followers who ask shamelessly, and are helpless in attitude.
There is no prayer request God can’t handle. So don’t limit God.
From Matthew 7, Jesus tells us how to pray:
1) Relational, active, dynamic (v.7-8)
Ask with voice, Seek with eyes/mind, Knock with our fist.
Progression from “Ask to Knock” gives impression of urgency, persistence, and power.
2) An answer to our “big asks” seems to be guaranteed. (v.7-8)
Warning: it may not be the answer we are looking for.
Why bring prayer requests to God?
3) God, our Heavenly Father, loves us so much that He wants to give us what we need. (v.9-11)
It’s first about relationship, and then answered prayer.
What are we to pray for?
4) Love others by interceding for them. (v.12)
We are to “ask, seek, and knock” because God does too!
The Sabbath was made for people (not people for the Sabbath) Greg Beale's conclusions 1. First, the seventh-day commemoration is Gen 2:3 and Israel's Sabbath ordinance is transferred to the first day of the week because of Christ's resurrection. 2. Israel's way of observing the Sabbath, with all its detailed requirements, falls away, and there is a return to the creational mandate. The observance of this mandate is a day of commemoration of God's creative rest, a celebration that Christ has entered that rest, that believers have begun to enter such rest, and a pointing forward to believers completely entering that rest. God gives Sabbath as a gift; it's an island or get-to in a sea of have-to. THE DIVINE RHYTHM 1. One day per week (Sabbath) "...and [God] rested on the seventh day from all his work that He had done." Genesis 2:2 2. Around 8 hours per day (Sleep) "He gives to his beloved sleep" (Ps 127:2) God made us to need sleep 3. Every seven years (Sabbatical) Lev 25:2-7; 18-22
ANXIOUS PARENTING
There is no perfect parent. So give up trying!
The Bible as parent instruction manual
A. Teach children about God (Deut. 6:7; Prov. 1-9) B. Discipline them (Proverbs 23:13; Heb. 12:7-11) C. Be thankful for them (Psalm 127:3-5) D. Do not exasperate them (Ephesians 6:4)
In God we trust.
My advice to all parents: Get on your knees and pray!
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me…27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:1,27)
TOO MUCH SCREEN TIME
Hello, my name is _____ and I am addicted to media.
Screen time with no boundaries will ruin your enjoyment of God
Two ways it does this: 1. Time spend in media is time not spent in better things. 2. The screen is shortening our attention span, and decreasing our ability and interest in hearing from God.
Every day when we have free time, we are making choices on what to feed our soul. (1 Tim 4:7 and Phil 4:8)
Practical suggestions:
Kill one form of media (e.g. Netflix), bring to life a gospel. For every hour spent in media, spend the same amount of time doing something devotional. Set limits on your media time (e.g. get a timer or watch only one episode per day) At 10 PM put all your electronics to bed. During dinner put all phones in a box.
We have a Problem Our annual hours have increased from 1,716 for the average worker in 1967 to 1,878 hours in the year 2000. The most serious threats (of busyness) are spiritual. Two Dangers to Avoid: 1. The first danger is that busyness can ruin our joy. Margin is the space between our load and our limits. Wise planning means that we understand what’s possible for us as finite creatures and then we schedule for less than that. 2. Second danger is that busyness can rob our hearts Parable of the four soils. The third soil was choked by the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desire for other things The Killer P’s People-Pleasing - we say yes to meet the expectations of other people Performance - we tend to overestimate our importance. Possessions - we want more stuff Proving myself - we are seeking approval through our accomplishments Poor Planning - too hesitant to hand over certain tasks to others Perfectionism - can’t let up because we can’t make a mistake But What About…? Everyone of the P’s listed above could be changed from vice into virtue with just a minor tweak. So how can we tell the difference? Using a simple question: Am I trying to do good or make myself look good? 1 Corinthians 13: 1-3
Three examples
Sorry, this recording is only a partial of the entire message.
The wise men have (at least) three lessons to teach us about gift-giving.
When considering a gift for another person...
-
Consider the gift of _____________
-
Consider the gift of ______________
-
Consider the gift of transferable _______________
I wonder at what moment the wise men realized they were _______________ ...
I wonder at what moment you realized that....
-
John 1: 14
-
Mark 10:45
-
Mark 10:29-31, Romans 8:28, Matthew 7:11
From the stories of Simeon and Anna, who were waiting:
-
Christmas brings comfort and forgiveness. (v.25, 38)
-
Christmas moves us either closer or away from Jesus. (v.34-35)
-
Christmas should cause us to want to “yelp” about Jesus. (v.38)
“Whoever takes the Son gets it all.”
Grace: the act of offering a gift to someone who does not deserve it.
God gives grace to people who do not deserve it. He offers favor to unfavored people.
Two criteria of a life that is powerfully used by God: 1. Faith. Mary believed that nothing is impossible for God. (Do you?)
- Availability. Mary was willing to have her life re-written by God. (Are you?)
What do you do when you've given your life to God and things don't turn out the way you hoped?
Romans 8:28 - "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
"If I really believed that God was working this hardship out for my good, then I would ________"
John's calling is our calling: The very reason why you were born: set apart to prepare other people for Jesus.
My life is not about me. Your life is not about you. Our lives are all about Him.
John's message is also our message: Urgency!-there is such a thing as judgment day, you know
What John called people to do is also what God calls us to do: Share your resources with people who lack basic needs.
Find out what it means to live for God within the day-to-day duties of your current job.
"You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works..." James 2: 22
What is your "Goliath"? (a Goliath is the thing that stands in your way from thriving in Christ).
Do not settle for a compromised faith.
What separated David from the other men (quivering with fear)?: FAITH
Knowing God's character and His promises is enough to make us bold and courageous.
What would it look like for you to rise up (in faith) and engage your Goliath?
God is all about covenant. “Everything God does is based on His covenant.” (Kay Arthur) When we know this truth, we will understand how much He truly loves us.
“A covenant is a bond in blood, or a bond of life and death, sovereignly administered.” (O. Palmer Robertson)
Examples of God’s covenants in the OT:
Genesis 9:8-17 Covenant with Noah Genesis 12:1-3 Calling of Abraham Genesis 15 Abrahamic Covenant Exodus 34:27-28 Mosaic Covenant
From Genesis 15,
-
When God makes promises you can trust Him. (v.7)
-
God makes promises for us because He loves us unconditionally. (v.17)
-
When God makes promises He gives us security. (v.18)
So what does this mean for us today?
God has ensured His covenant to us by the blood of Jesus.
23 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.” (Mark 14:23-24)
God commands us to observe the Sabbath because He cares about us and we care about Him. How are you with Sabbath?
From Exodus 35:1-3
- The Sabbath is part of a healthy rhythm for life. (v.2)
- The Sabbath is intended for rest. (v.2,3)
- The Sabbath is holy and for the Lord. (v.2)
- Not observing the Sabbath has negative consequences (v.2)
Applications
-
Check your calendars and schedules to see if you live a life that honors Sabbath. (Concept of Sabbath Ladder)
-
The Sabbath is a day for: a. Personal care b. Family and community care c. God care
-
Sabbath is a Date with God, space and time for us to experience the gospel and be made whole again.
God gave us the gospel to create a safe environment to look beneath the surface. I don’t have to prove that I’m lovable or valuable. I don’t have to be right all the time. I can be vulnerable and be myself even if others don’t accept me. I can even take risks and fail. Why? Because God sees the 90 percent of the iceberg hidden below the surface, and he utterly, totally loves me in Christ."*
*From The Emotionally Healthy Church, Peter L. Scazzero
Wanting More of God
• "To have found God and still to pursue Him is the soul's paradox of love..." -A.W. Tozer
• At the time of Moses there was no person closer to God than he was, and yet he still desired more.
• The life of Moses demonstrates that "finding God" is not the end of a journey, but the beginning of a divine romance that continues to burn brighter still.
Knowing God: The Attributes of God • Merciful • Gracious • Patient • Kindness/Faithfulness • Forgiving • Just
Which attribute of God stands out to you the most? Which moves you towards awe and wonder?
When it comes to developing a close relationship with God, different people are at different places... How would you describe where you are today?
Exodus 33 v. 7 - Moses models for us that in order to develop a close relationship with God we need s_______ and s______. Best practice: find a r______ place to meet with God. Moses called this his "tent of meeting."
v.11 - Can you imagine what it would be like to talk to God "face to face" like you would a friend?
v. 10 - In addition to spending time alone with God, we must also learn to worship God "at our own t___". (e.g. work/school, doing household chores, etc.)
The human heart is an "idol factory."
Idolmaking is taking a good thing and making it an ultimate thing.
What is an idol? It is anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your
heart and imagination more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can
give (Tim Keller, Counterfeit Gods).
So what's the big deal with idolatry? (Why is it such a bad thing?)
0.
1.
2.
3.
How do we do this today?
What is the cure for idolatry?
Forgiveness
Repentance
True Worship
sin = broken relationships
-
With God
-
With others
-
With creation
-
With self
We need to own it
- There’s freedom that comes when we own mutual brokenness
v. 21 - There’s still hope
There’s been a lot of debate about this chapter…
What’s the irreducible minimum that this chapter is saying? 1. God is infinitely powerful and creative 2. God is a talking God 3. We are created in God’s image 4. God gave humankind the gift of work
How do these truths shape the way we: 1. Relate to God? 2. Hold anxiety and stress? 3. Accept ourselves (and others)? 4. Engage our work?
Nehemiah: a man of action and prayer
Is there a sense of desperate prayer in your life?
Holy discontent leads to desperate prayer
The curse of the gifted: self-reliance Nehemiah is a good model for us: he is both gifted and reliant upon God’s power
Nehemiah is called to remove the safety net. Is there a safety net that God is calling you to remove?
Is your life easily explainable or do people look at your life and say, “There is no way to explain this except for God…”
Corporate times for desperate prayer:
Sep 14 – Prayer for our children and youth (after church @ SDA) Sep 18 – Prayer for the mission of our church (THR 8PM in Oakland) Oct 25 – Prayer for our home groups (SAT 8:30AM in Oakland) Nov 8 or 15 – Prayer for our communal worship (TBD) Dec 14 – Prayer for the mission of our church (SUN 9AM @ SDA)
In 1967 The Beatles released the song “All You Need is Love”, written by band member John Lennon. The Beatles were commissioned to come up with a song with a message understood by everyone for a global televised event that year.
Another John also wrote about love: In one of the Gospels and 3 letters of the New Testament. John repeatedly wrote about love and to “love one another.”
In our series of A Hero's Journey, we are looking at people in the Bible who model the core values of CLC. John gives us 3 values when lived out at CLC makes us a thriving community.
-
Love means being relational like friends. (John 15:12-17)
-
Love means being inter-generational like family. (John 19:25-27)
-
Love means working together like teams. (John 19:38-42).
"Love one another" leads to a thriving community, and is an attractive witness to an unbelieving world.
"By this all men will know you are my disciples." (John 13:35)
-
Taking the Father’s love for granted
-
Sin redefined: Sin’s core is relational brokenness with the Father
-
Love for the Father comes…when we see Him running to us
-
Prayer of response
A value of CLC is to have a “Passion for Christ”, which is important for a church to have so that a Discipleship Culture exists. How does this practically look like?
Definition of Passion = ardent adoring love
Question: Do you have an ardent adoring love for Jesus?
Nicodemus’ spiritual journey, as told in the Book of John, has actions which demonstrate a passion for Christ:
- Nicodemus goes to Jesus to ask his questions and receives spiritual direction. (John 3:1-21)
Question: Do you want to spend time with Jesus to ask him for spiritual advice?
- Nicodemus identifies himself on Jesus’ side when he publicly challenges his peers who are the Jewish leaders. (John 7:45-52)
Question: Can you identify yourself as a Jesus follower even if it isn’t popular?
- Nicodemus abandons playing it safe and helps bury Jesus’ body at a cost to himself. (John 19:38-42)
Question: Are you prepared to give all to Jesus? Time, money, abilities, life?
The State of the Union (the unopened book) 22: 1-10 Israel had religion but an “unopened” Bible, what keep us from opening our own bibles?
The Turn (Here’s a response that makes sense) 22: 11-20
Cleaning House and Celebration 23: 1-23 Building our lives in response to God’s Word ultimately leads to joy!
4 Practical Tips 1. Read through a whole book of Scripture for every season of time. 2. Bible devotional app: www.youversion.com 3. Scripture meditation is the “thumb” that allows you to hold the Bible. 4. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you read the Scripture.
“Come to the Waters” Isaiah 55:1-3; Matthew 5:6 Guest Speaker: Pastor Aaron Roy
I. Who is invited?
II. What is offered?
III. How to get it?
I. Remember His Grace & Redemption 1. He came to save all people (v. 11) 2. He came to redeem us as His (v. 14)
II. Look For His Promised Return • Titus 2:13; 1 Corinthians 1:7; 2 Peter 3:11-13
III. Live in light of the Gospel 1. The gospel trains us to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives (v. 12) 2. The gospel compels us toward __________ ___________ (v. 14)
Application:
For this Sunday we put another dimension of mentoring into practice, mentioning our youth and children about large group Sunday service. Most of the teams that make Sundays work had special helpers on their teams for the day.
Scriptures: “One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts.” Psalm 145:4-5
“The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them and those in authority are called benefactors, But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves.” Luke 22:24 See also Luke 9 :46-48 and Matt. 18 :1-5
Paul once said to Timothy “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1Tim 4:12
The Apostle Paul says “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” 1 Cor. 11:1
I. Wendy chose to stop speaking (Mandarin) because it would help her feel (accepted) at school. II. Acts 2:1-13 – Pentecost
a. The (common) language the Jewish diaspora would have spoken was Aramaic b. The disciples were waiting in (Jerusalem) because of Jesus’ final promise/instructions to the disciples in Luke 24:46-49: i. Repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in Jesus’ name to (all nations), beginning from (Jerusalem). ii. Jesus is sending upon you what the (Father) promised. iii. Stay here in the (city) until you have been clothed with (Power) from on high. III. Acts 2: 4 All of them were filled with the (Holy Spirit) and began to speak in other (languages), as the Spirit gave them ability. a. Why preach the good news in other (languages) instead of Aramaic? i. Language is a (doorway) into a culture’s heart. ii. (Translating) the gospel into a culture’s heart language allows for deeper (transformation). b. Asian-Americans – What does the gospel do for my unshakable (shame)? c. Native Americans – What does the gospel mean for (creation)? d. African Americans – What kind of (freedom) does the gospel bring? IV. Application a. Step 1: (Embrace) your identity. Are these not (Galilean)? i. We all have a (culture) ii. Steps to embrace our identity: 1. (Name) my identity: I am __________________ (fill in this blank with descriptions of my identity). 2. Read: fiction and (non-fiction) 3. Experience art made by people like me 4. Ask God to show me how He (sees) my identity iii. Taking a moment to pray & reflect. I will do the following to (embrace) my identity: _________________________
b. Step 2: Share the (gospel) in another culture’s heart language i. How? Become good (listeners): to the HS, to people of that culture ii. Find a (mentor) 1. Real live person (but not someone under my authority) 2. Books, (films) iii. Taking a moment to pray & reflect: I will do the following to (listen) to another culture: ___________________________ V. Because of the (Holy Spirit), we can experience the (power) of God’s love for us and bring the (gospel) to all (nations).
Jesus might say:
- You are not alone in your parenting. (Matthew 28:20; 11:28-30, Isaiah 54:13)
Are you tired and frustrated? Ask God for His help.
- Hurting people don’t have to hurt people. (1 John 1:8-9, 2 Corinthians 5:17)
Are you confessing your sins to God for forgiveness?
- Don’t exasperate your children. (Ephesians 6:4)
Are your children talking with you?
- Love your children by loving their mother even more, and ultimately love God the most. (Ephesians 5:25, Matthew 22:36-39)
How is your marriage?
- Live your life with the end in mind. Will your children see me (Jesus) in you? (John 13:35)
How do you want to be remembered as a Dad?
"What is our message, again?"
Gospel = good news
“Jesus Christ, who He is and what He did.” “The life, death, and resurrection of Christ, and what it means for all of us.” “You are more sinful than you could ever dare imagine, and you are more loved and accepted than you could ever dare hope.” – Tim Keller
Who is it for?
Don’t just share with others how God fits into our story, but how we fit into God's story.
The gospel. Not only are we saved by it, but we are also sustained by it.
“We serve a sent God. Mission is part of His nature.” (Pastor Les Yee at CLC Retreat)
Jesus was a marketplace evangelist. He chose his disciples from the marketplace. He did most of His miracles in the marketplace. He demonstrated how the Kingdom of God works in the marketplace.
Learning from Jesus’ encounter with Levi:
-
We can bring Jesus to our workplaces, as Jesus went to Levi’s workplace. (v.27)
-
We can build trust with people by living out our faith and telling our stories, as Jesus apparently did with Levi. (v.27-28)
a. relationship b. respect
- We can hang out with our co-workers, like Jesus did with Levi’s co-workers (tax collectors and “sinners”). (v.29-32)
The workshop was in the 2nd workshop slot. Pastor Dave is from a church in Dublin.
Pastor Dave speaks on some of the things that block us from recognizing God as well as a couple of ways to know it is God and the Holy Spirit and not something else.
This is the workshop that followed Pastor Les' Saturday morning session. He and his wife, Christine, spoke on how they are living a missional life.
The Christian Church rapidly grew on the basis of eyewitness stories of Jesus Christ, and many became believers even under horrendous persecution. Today our stories must be told to be obedient to Jesus’ command to be his witnesses.
Jesus tells us, “You will be my witnesses.” (Acts 1:8) How do you personally feel about that? Will you tell your story?
From Peter’s experience of re-telling his story in Acts 11, we can glean that telling your story is good because:
It’s your story. (Acts 11:4-5)
The Holy Spirit can be received by others. (Acts 11:15)
The community is built up. (Acts 11:18)
Application:
Tell your story in 90 seconds.
The Roman Centurion’s turning point: Compassion & Power
• Would you consider getting to know Jesus yourself by reading the gospel of John?
Mary’s turning point: Hope • What sort of hope did Mary find in the resurrection of Jesus Christ?
Peter’s turning point: Forgiveness • Can you relate to Peter as a man needing forgiveness? In what ways?
The Roman Centurion’s turning point: Compassion & Power
• Would you consider getting to know Jesus yourself by reading the gospel of John?
Mary’s turning point: Hope • What sort of hope did Mary find in the resurrection of Jesus Christ?
Peter’s turning point: Forgiveness • Can you relate to Peter as a man needing forgiveness? In what ways?
Jesus asks God to change the circumstances
Pray the simple thing first. Remember that God can do anything.
God said No to Jesus.
Which means that God says No even to those He loves.
Notice what Jesus doesn’t do when God says no. He does not give into our natural tendency of: fight or flight.
Are there certain ways that you have been “walking away” from a pain that God is calling you to bear?
Jesus accepted God’s will. He put His trust in God and bore the pain.
His obedience gave us life and hope today, and ours will do the same for others (and ourselves).
Four things that suffering does to us: • Builds resilience • Draws us closer in relationships • Changes our priorities • Develops compassion
Interactive Questions: How much is the life of a pet worth?
How much is a human life worth?
• Mary gave her priceless treasure to Jesus in response to God giving her His priceless treasure in His son.
What would it look like for you to offer this to Jesus?
• Once we give our priceless treasure to Jesus, don’t expect others to applaud.
Two questions • Is this passage saying that if we care for the needy that we can earn a place in heaven?
• What was the motivation of these people who helped and what should ours be?
As a church we are called to move from “planned compassion” towards “heart compassion”, embodying the heart of Jesus wherever we go.
3 Practical Points 1. You have to go and be there… 2. "Who here is in need?" 3. Be willing to be uncomfortable.
- God gives us money (talents) to invest for Him. (Matthew 25:14-18)
Are you putting “money to work” for God?
-
Everyone will be accountable. (Matthew 25:19) If you died tomorrow, how is your Spiritual Profit? (Matthew 6:20, treasures in heaven)
-
“Good seed” testify to His love. (Matthew 25:21, 23) “Bad seed” will end up in the fire. (Matthew 25:24-30)
Are you “good seed” or “bad seed”? (Matthew 13:36-43)
- God gives us money (talents) to invest for Him. (Matthew 25:14-18)
Are you putting “money to work” for God?
-
Everyone will be accountable. (Matthew 25:19) If you died tomorrow, how is your Spiritual Profit? (Matthew 6:20, treasures in heaven)
-
“Good seed” testify to His love. (Matthew 25:21, 23) “Bad seed” will end up in the fire. (Matthew 25:24-30)
Are you “good seed” or “bad seed”? (Matthew 13:36-43)
What kind of life would you want to live where there are no regrets?
Live each day with urgency (as if Jesus were coming tomorrow) and live each year with perseverance (because Jesus might take a really long time).
Spiritual preparedness is not something that others can provide for you, every person needs their own oil.
So my question for you today is this: what would it take for you not just to be fired up for God now, but fired up for the rest of your life?
Wait Training Plan 1. Remember His grace.
-
Get inspired.
-
Drop something and pick up something.
What kind of life would you want to live where there are no regrets?
Live each day with urgency (as if Jesus were coming tomorrow) and live each year with perseverance (because Jesus might take a really long time).
Spiritual preparedness is not something that others can provide for you, every person needs their own oil.
So my question for you today is this: what would it take for you not just to be fired up for God now, but fired up for the rest of your life?
Wait Training Plan 1. Remember His grace.
-
Get inspired.
-
Drop something and pick up something.
Are You Ready?
Wait Training Wait so you are ready at any moment (Matthew 24:36-51) Wait as if it might take a long time (Matthew 25:1-13)
What steps must I take to become spiritually mature? Ongoing disciplines:
New ones:
Wait by actively increasing the Master’s assets (Matt 25:14-29) Wait by loving and serving those in need (Matt 25:1-46)
How has God called me to make a difference for Christ? Resources (money, time, talents,story):
To who? friends, family, work, church others
Are You Ready?
Wait Training Wait so you are ready at any moment (Matthew 24:36-51) Wait as if it might take a long time (Matthew 25:1-13)
What steps must I take to become spiritually mature? Ongoing disciplines:
New ones:
Wait by actively increasing the Master’s assets (Matt 25:14-29) Wait by loving and serving those in need (Matt 25:1-46)
How has God called me to make a difference for Christ? Resources (money, time, talents,story):
To who? friends, family, work, church others
“Wait Training” Are You Ready? series, pt. 1 Matthew 24: 1-28 Pastor Andrew Huang
In Matthew 24: 4-21, Jesus is talking about the time between his first and second coming; namely, the time we find ourselves in now. He predicts what it is going to be like.
“Wait Training” Are You Ready? series, pt. 1 Matthew 24: 1-28 Pastor Andrew Huang
In Matthew 24: 4-21, Jesus is talking about the time between his first and second coming; namely, the time we find ourselves in now. He predicts what it is going to be like.
Psalm 100 is an invitation to enter joyfully into God's presence, and give thanks publicly as a community.
6 Things to know about God:
• He is Creator. He is Master. He is Great Shepherd. (v3)
• He is good. He is love. He is faithful. (v5)
In response to what we know about God, we are invited to:
• Joyfully shout, worship with gladness, and sing. (v.1-2)
• Thank God and praise Him. (v.4)
Questions:
Is your expression of joy too limited? too private?
Do you need more freedom to have a more joyful life?
Is your generosity a reflection of your love of Jesus?
Pastor Andrew and Guest Speaker Jonathan Zinghkai.
The video in the "Related Episodes" area is referred to within the first 15 minutes of the talking time. It must be played separately and is about 4 minutes long.
Pastor Andrew and Guest Speaker Jonathan Zinghkai.
The video in the "Related Episodes" area is referred to within the first 15 minutes of the talking time. It must be played separately and is about 4 minutes long.
The Generosity Pendulum:
Let’s ask God to move us towards… a lifestyle of _____________-driven, ____________ saturated generosity!
-
His ____________________ work • Micah 6:1-8; Romans 5:6-8
-
Our ___________________ response for His grace • Micah 6:8 a) Act _________________ b) Love _______________ c) Walk _________________
Question: Where is your heart this morning?
In light of the gospel, let’s continue to allow His grace to compel us to be generous with both our __________ & our _______________! • 1 John 3:16-18 • 1 Thessalonians 2:8
“…when the Spirit enables us to understand what Christ has done for us, the result is a life poured out in deeds of justice and compassion for the poor.” - Keller
Jesus gave this command to us: “Do not worry!”
He told us we can do this by:
- Trusting God to know and provide for our basic needs. (v.30)
Can you be content with just this?
- Seeking the Kingdom of God, where His will is done. (v.31)
Does your lifestyle reflect Kingdom life?
- Having our hearts in the right place, that being heaven. (v.33)
Where are your treasures, because where your treasures are your heart is?
“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” (Corrie ten Boom)
Live Simply, Give Generously (Year #3)
What’s new this year?
Our goal: We want to give more than just our money for kingdom causes, but our hearts, our relational
investment, our gospel partnership, our service, and our prayers!
• $20K matching (instead of $10K) to be used creatively for more than just a donation…
• The Cube (for families)
Money is OPPORTUNITY
Luke 16: 1-13
The dishonest manager is not being commended for his ethics but his SHREWDNESS.
Definition:
Use this green paper to MAKE FRIENDS and build something that will LAST FOR ETERNITY.
An irresistable offer: Trade the SMALL, UNRIGHTEOUS, AND BORROWED, for the MUCH, TRUE, AND
YOURS FOREVER.
The ultimate question Jesus is asking us is: Who is your master (and savior)?
10 Life Assessment Questions Taken from, “Tribal Church” by Steve Stroope
Please rate yourself on a scale of 1 – 5 (1=very poor, 5=excellent)
Fitness:
Faithfulness:
Fruitfulness:
Evangelism Acts 22:1-21 Paul shares his story: • I am one of you guys…(v. 3-5) • but then, something happened to me…(v. 6-16) • and this is the reason why…(v.17-21
A. David’s Extravagant Kindness to Mephibosheth:
- David the victor was perfectly entitled to eliminate King Saul’s heirs, but chooses to show kindness to Saul’s grandson Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son. (2 Sam 9:7)
Def. Entitlement: the right or authority to do or have something
Is there someone God wants you to show extravagant kindness to this week?
- Mephibosheth called himself “a dead dog,” thinking he did not deserve King David’s kindness. (2 Sam 9:8)
In what ways are you like Mephibosheth before God?
- David granted Mephibosheth to always eat at the king’s table. (2 Sam 9:13)
As a Christian, do you feel like an heir to your Heavenly Father’s spiritual kingdom? Especially when you come to the Lord’s Table?
B. God’s Extravagant Kindness to Us
-
God gave us Jesus, who laid down his life for us. (1 John 3:16)
-
Therefore we love others with actions and in truth. (1 John 3:18)
This is good news for ALL people.
The sign: the Savior is ACCESSIBLE to everyone.
There is a special place for SMALL people in God's kingdom.
The coming of Jesus causes people to DROP EVERYTHING in order to receive Him.
The Advent season is a time of spiritual preparation for the coming of Christ. In short, it is a time of waiting.
Outline
-
Anticipating Christmas
-
Christmas the __________ __________ way
-
Christmas the Advent way is __________, __________ and ____________.
-
A Theology of Work
-
It\'s in God\'s nature to ___________.
-
It\'s in Our nature to ___________ ____________.
-
Moving from Work to Rest
We are called to:
-
Rest in the ________________.
-
Rest in Partnering with ________________.
-
Rest in the Midst of ____________ ____________.
Application:
My Advent commitment is to rest in ____________________
My Christmas \"Not-to-Do\" List is ____________________
The Kingdom of God is given to those…who care to ask Jesus more questions (and pursue Him for answers).
The purpose of the soil is to create a home for the word of God to thrive and grow.
Describe the four soil conditions and their interaction with the seed: 1. Pathway soil: 2. Rocky soil: 3. Thorny soil: 4. Good soil:
There are three things that “choke” the word of God: 1. C - Cares of the World 2. P - Pursuit of other things 3. R - Riches which Deceive
Which soil condition do you identify with?
Pray that the Lord during this Advent season will make you (or keep you) like the fourth soil.
What are some reasons we don't read our bibles on a regular basis?
What does the Bible say about itself?
The goal of reading the Bible.
The prize of reading the Bible.
Practicals.
There are no Lone Ranger Christians. We are meant to be part of the global Church and a local church.
“‘I love Jesus, I hate the Church.’ We can’t say that.” – Francis Chan
A. Christian Layman Church will be a place where:
-
God is seen. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
-
People feel loved. (John 13:34-35, Galatians 6:2)
-
And lives are changed into the likeness of Jesus Christ. (Ezekiel 36:26-27, Ephesians 4:11-13)
B. Fusion (Spiritual Formation Continuum):
“Turning first time guests into fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.”
“Think what a local church would be like if its people were radically devoted to Christ, irrevocably committed to each other, and relentlessly dedicated to reaching those outside God’s family with the Gospel of Christ. It would be a church against which the gates of hell could not prevail! It would be an unstoppable force for good in the community, an inspiration to other churches and a testimony to God’s unfailing grace.” (Bill Hybels, Willow Creek Community Church)
The Command to Make Disciples:
A. Jesus commissioned us to “go, baptize, and teach”. (Matthew 28:19-20)
B. Jesus asks us to follow him, but some hesitate and make excuses. (Luke 9: 57-62)
C. Jesus wants us to be like Philip and be available to have Meaningful Conversations. (Acts 8:26-39)
Question: What’s your excuse for not committing to a Meaningful Conversation?
What is the one thing this man lacked?
Idolatry – is loving the gifts more than the Gift-giver; making a good thing an Ultimate thing.
What is unbelievable about this story is not that Jesus asked this man to give up his riches, but given the choice between pleasures evermore in God, this man instead chose the “hamster”.
What did Jesus mean when he said –“How difficult it will be for the rich to enter the kingdom of God?” Could He possibly have meant what He said?
The disciples asked, “Who can be saved?” Jesus said “With man it is impossible, but…”
Jesus assured Peter that he was getting the far better “deal”.
As soon as we are born into this world, we are examined, graded, judged even, for various criteria. So begins a lifetime of being validated and seeking the approval of others, whether knowingly or not. Sometimes this can be good, often this can be painful.
Zacchaeus apparently was not approved by many people:
- Occupationally, Chief tax collector (v. 2)
- Economically, Wealthy (v. 2)
- Physically, Short (v. 3)
- Socially, Shameful behavior (v. 4)
- Spiritually, Sinner (v. 7)
Jesus however approved of Zacchaeus:
- Called him by his given name. (v. 5)
- Gave him priority of time and space (v. 5)
- Shared intimate fellowship at his home (v. 5)
- Saved not by birthright but because he demonstrated a transformed life that follows Jesus (v. 8- 9)
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” (Luke 19: 10)
“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” (John 1:12 13)
Review (from last week): You are His Son/Daughter – (Mark 1:1-11) Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we are given the same affirmation as sons and daughters that Christ received.
Jesus washing the feet of his disciples is a symbolic foreshadowing of his death upon the cross for them.
We have no part with Jesus unless we allow him to “wash our feet”.
Jesus said that if we know these things, we are blessed not just for knowing them, but for DOING them.
What does it mean to “wash the feet” of those around you?
Among other things, it means YOU GO TO THEM. You go where they are. It means meeting needs.
What does ________ need from you?
Sometimes “washing feet” is giving people what they really need as opposed to what they want.
For the Road… • Do you normally think God’s love is something you have to earn? • If you were to fail or “mess up” in something what do you think God would say to you?
Eph 1:3-6 God as Father… In love… Eph 1:18 (You are His inheritance) What does it mean to be His adopted Son/Daughter in Christ? e.g. Galatians 4:1-7 (A slave must earn approval, but a daughter just has it by virtue of being a daughter) Are you living like an orphan or as His son/daughter? (See Diagram “Orphans or Children of God”) If you really believed you were His son/daughter, what would change for you?
hroughout history God is pleased to use small people to do BIG things. Often we excuse ourselves from His mission because we see ourselves as too weak and too flawed. Yet God chooses people not despite their smallness, but because of it, for His power is made perfect in weakness.
2 Cor 4 …”We have this treasure in jars of clay.” (v.7) When people look at you, do they see the “surpassing power” of God in your life?
There are two forces at work simultaneously inside us: Death and Life. How is Death and Life at work inside you?
Luke 10:17-24 It pleases God to use small ordinary people to do his extraordinary work. When God uses small ordinary people to do his extraordinary work, then we see how truly unstoppable His kingdom is. Don’t find your identity in the great things you can do for God, find it in your place in His family.
Have you been excusing yourself from God’s mission because you see yourself as too weak and too flawed?
Jesus came to earth over 2000 years ago and made a tremendous impact in this world. He taught radical change to how his followers should think and act.
Like “Loving Your Enemy”:
-
Means going beyond just giving up your right for revenge. (v.38-42)
-
Means as children of God we bless them through the power of prayer. (v.43-45)
-
Is part of the process that transforms us to be like Jesus. (v.46-48)
Next Steps: Identify the “enemies” in our lives. Pray. Bless our “enemies”.
The road to greatness is paved with suffering and servanthood. There is a throne prepared for you in heaven (for every follower of Jesus)… You know (how the world works)…BUT IT SHALL NOT BE SO AMONG YOU… A new vision for greatness: greatness is being like a slave A slave cannot measure their worth by any external measure A slave is free to leverage every resource they have for people who don’t have it.
Although Jesus came to earth over 2000 years ago he still has
an impact on humanity today. He brought hope to the world, and
a warning to Pharisees that continues today.
A. Good Life
B. Good Person
Part One of "The Most Interesting Man" Series. And the "New Life" Story of Vincent Yeh.
This was a joint service commemorating the past week of serving Richmond. People came for the free eye screenings and if needed, free eye glasses, but we believe they left with so much more.
So we are celebrating the wonders, the faithfulness, and the greatness of our God.
Bondservant = employee/master = boss Your work is an invitation to experience God Say hello to your new boss: Jesus Christ, the Ultimate Boss What would change if you worked as if Jesus were your boss? • Your Heart • Your Code • Your reward If Jesus were your boss, then you can lean into the resources of God at work
Encouraging mutual holiness with your spouse. working with a 'new' model of submitting to your spouse.
This is the third section of the four part series: God Beyond Imagination. For this series, we have added a meditation time during service.
The last part of the Living Simply, Giving Generously series.
Eddie Passmore is the pastor from Mexican Caravan Ministries. CLC uses some of the Kingdom Fund to sponsor this organization.
Pastor Paul is the Bay Area Director for World Impact. CLC sponsors World Impact in their efforts to bring Christ to the intercities.