Christ Chapel Audio Podcasts: Recent Episodes
Christ Chapel
The bible tells us guard, garrison, protect our heart, because out of it flows the issues of life. It is this often overlooked fact that we are the gatekeeper of our own heart. Christ gave us a new one, but he put us in charge of making sure it stays connected to the vine and protected from every enemy.
Today we draw out principles of stewardship from the parable of the talents found in the Gospel of Matthew. We are blessed with much in America, and with much blessing comes much responsibility. Join us as we examine the Scripture for a practical and applicable framework to help guide our stewardship of time, gifts, and resources in this last hour.
I believe by God's spirit this message will be enlightening to those who feel like they are walking in darkness, strength for those who are weak, motivation for the stagnant, clarity for the confused, and healing for the hurting. God has not gone anywhere and His Plans are still in force; you just gotta make it to your next place in God.
Join us as we face the reality of the circumstances faced by those that follow Christ faithfully. The world hates the light, but Jesus sustains all that belong to Him. We that are redeemed are kept by God, for He always has, and He always will, be faithful to His Word. God will keep all that belong to Him, and we are His.
I believe by God's spirit this message will be enlightening to those who feel like they are walking in darkness, strength for those who are weak, motivation for the stagnant, clarity for the confused, and healing for the hurting. God has not gone anywhere and His Plans are still in force; you just gotta make it to your next place in God.
Today we will compare the wisdom of the world with the wisdom of God to discover why many become so offended with the simplicity of the Gospel. God's wisdom is perfect, timeless, and leads us to glory. Conversely, worldly wisdom is corrupt, makes us arrogant, and leads us to destruction. Join us as we examine the better way to sojourn as we live in this world, but are not of this world.
As believers we are keenly aware of the global condition of sin as well as our own experience. From the darkness before our new birth, to the painful and discouraging experience of our sinfulness after conversion. As we examine the why of our sinfulness; maybe then we can turn back to the "who" that is worthy of our choice of holiness.
This message will carefully examine what is told us in the scriptures about the man Elijah and the effectual prayers that moved heaven and shook a nation. The base foundation of our message is found in the book of James where we find out; that Elijah was no different than us in his makeup and or opportunities.... only difference is that HE PRAYED
"Forgiven, but not living like it". In it we will be examining the divine expectations and intentions of God for our lives found in the scriptures and the old/weak fig leaves believers for generations have used to try and cover their nakedness. There is not only a glory found in grace, but a responsibility, a response, an expectation to follow the Lord into all the ways and graces where he abides. Don't let the world and carnal believers dull your senses to what is valuable and necessary for the believer to walk closely with God.
In the old testament, the Israelites (like us all) were under the judgment of God and many of them died; but God in his mercy gave them a divine remedy of mercy, that only involved their faith. So it is with us today; all that troubles us and the sin that creates it can be dealt with by looking upon the remedy; which is Christ lifted up for our sins. Looking at him genuinely, exclusively......nothing more, nothing less. No wonder they call HIS GRACE amazing
This is not a self-help talk or just mans attempt at encouraging those who are down, weary and or defeated; but instead, an examination of the scriptures that shed light on our journeys here on the earth and remind us that we have everything inside of us (by his spirit) to continue in, endure and finish all things. Regardless of who you are, where you are, and what is behind you... if you are fully surrendered to Christ, his power is sufficient to see you to the end
Join us as we continue our series The Charge of the Believer. This week we will search the Scripture to discover the biblical framework to properly understand how every believer should serve the Body of Christ. We will explore the doctrinal directives found in Ephesians this week, and next week, we will plan to apply this framework at a practical level. How will you "Serve His Body?
Join us as we continue our series The Charge of the Believer. This week we will examine how followers of Christ must dissect the Scriptures when seeking to make proper application of biblical principles in everyday life. Paul charged Timothy to "rightly divide" the Word of Truth, and we seek to do the same as cultural shifts create a deep need for believers to clearly understand how to navigate the times and live righteously before God
Join us as we examine biblical leadership on Father's Day. Paul exhorted the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitated Christ, and men that would lead their homes and families in a Christ-centered and God-honoring way can learn much from this simple directive. Today we will unpack Paul's instruction and offer a practical framework for those that wish to be able to look at those under their care and say with integrity, "follow me as I follow Christ."
Today we continue the series on The Charge of the Believer. Throughout Scripture, an outline is presented to those that follow God on how to live a life that will please Him and bring glory to His Kingdom. This series will expound on how we can understand and apply this framework to our own lives in modern America, and we will continue our study with an outward directive - Be His Witness. Before Jesus ascends into heaven, He told His disciples to be His witnesses, and we too are to be witness for Christ. Join us as we examine the Scripture and offer practical ways for each of us to serve our Savior with our witness
Today we continue the series on The Charge of the Believer. Throughout Scripture, an outline is presented to those that follow God on how to live a life that will please Him and bring glory to His Kingdom. This series will expound on how we can understand and apply this framework to our own lives in modern America, and we will continue our study with a simple directive - Guard Your Heart. Through surrender and obedience to God and His Word, we can successfully live righteously and guard our hearts, but this task is something that no one else can do for us, and God will not do it for us.
Today we begin the series on The Charge of the Believer. Throughout Scripture, an outline is presented to those that follow God on how to live a life that will please Him and bring glory to His Kingdom. This series will expound on how we can understand and apply this framework to our own lives in modern America, and we will begin with the first step - Be Alert. To follow Christ well, we must be aware of His character, presence, and prompting, and if we are not alert, we will inevitably be unaware of God's hand moving in our life.
Last week, my dear friend Joe Phillips did an illustrative sermon from the forgiveness penitentiary and God used it to touch many hearts and free them from being a warden over those we had locked away in our hearts. We were also given a key to remind us of this day, this action, and the spiritual reality of it. But what about after? After the feelings of conviction and warmth are gone? When the smoke of burn over field blows back over you, or you see someone that resurfaces all the pain, shame, sorrow, and or anger that this person created in you. Join us as we examine the scriptures and search out what it is that God expects and is often the missing component to take us from the act of forgiveness, to the state of wholeness.
The story of Lazarus is a common one, but the faith and declaration of Martha is often overlooked to our own shame and loss. At the point of hopelessness, with Lazarus decomposition exponentially taking place in the jerusalem heat; her prayers unanswered, her hopes dashed, her expectation unrealized.....from the bottom of her sould came two words, 'even now.' Even now Lord, when it is to late. Even now, when the funeral music is playing and the mourners are heard crying around the tomb. Even now, where the stench of death is in the air and it covers anyone who comes within distance of it's power. Even now, I believe God can. I believe it is a matter of your will, not mine; and though my faith be small, it has one direction..... You, Son of God
There is a common phrase today in the church, "blessed and highly favored"; but I am afraid there are many people who have a practice of saying this, without any biblical evidence to the fact. Join us as we examine the life of Mary before and after the pronouncement upon her life, looking at the variables that qualified and quantified this being said about her
There is a story of a rich man in the gospels who lived a life of luxury and abundance, and at his gate was a castaway. Sick, homeless, hungry and destitute. This rich man (like many of us) have been blessed by God so greatly, so undeservedly and that in and of itself is a scandal; but the most incredible thing is that having SEEN the man, he did not SEE the opportunity, or feel the compulsion or compassion to alleviate his pain
This same Christ who died according to the scriptures, this same Christ who was raised from the dead according to the scriptures; is the one, THE ONE. The one sacrifice. The one redeemer. The one Son of God. The one Judge. The only name under heaven, whereby we must be saved.
When we are going life whether difficult or not it is hard to at times to keep our focus on what really matters. In this story I want to draw out need for Jesus
It is not only the world that has lost its way, but also many who once walked with the Lord. At one time they knew his voice, loved his word, and lived for his glory....(but now) they have devolved into enlightment, wokeness, lovers of the world, pleasure and sin; even disdaining the years that they walked with him. And others who were assaulted by life, sorrow, pain and disappointment and used that as an occasion to turn from the Lord that they once loved and served so well.....And there are others whose drift turned into distance and they aren't really sure when or how they left; but they are a long distance aways from the Fathers House, But what ever the case, i know two things. Backsliding is a real thing; but to the one who turns back to God, His grace is an even GREATER thing.
Those of you know me that I do not waste the opportunity the Lord has given me to minister on Sundays to give some self-help, positive image, new age foolishness....but instead as with Sunday, we will examine the scriptures and determine why a believer should have God based confidence, that has a great RECOMPENSE of REWARD. There is no situation, no circumstances, no test or season that the believer does not and should not have the expectation of victory because of His position in Christ and the word of His testimony.
The world is filled with lost people who the God of this world hath blinded their eyes lest the light of the glorious gospel should shine unto them and they could see the truth. Once they have come to faith (and are found) we are to disicple them in the truth of God's word and train them in the ways of God. But what of the broken, the shattered, the traumatized and the decimated. Even if they have eyes to see the truth they are blinded by their pain and sorrow. And if they are saved and others try to disciple them their soul seems to be paralized, unable to fully respond the call to know and follow Christ. It is for their pain and dillema, we will look to the scriptures to find out how God can use us to mend them
Jesus's command was clear, go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature, making disciples of all men.... He did not send us into the world to only reap converts, but to disciple others. A man can come to faith in a moment, but it takes years to disciple him. Years invested in someone else that wasn't spent on himself. Denial of self, serving others
If you are willing, we will take an honest look and assement of where you are in the fulfilling of your mission and calling to share the gospel of Jesus Christ? If what you see is convicting, are you willing to humble yourselves and make the changes necessary that you might be an authentic, effective and faithful witness. May this year find us faithfully and finally... Winning the Lost, Discipling the found, Mending the broken and Sending the Whole.
If you are willing, we will take an honest look and assement of where you are in the fulfilling of your mission and calling to share the gospel of Jesus Christ? If what you see is convicting, are you willing to humble yourselves and make the changes necessary that you might be an authentic, effective and faithful witness. May this year find us faithfully and finally... Winning the Lost, Discipling the found, Mending the broken and Sending the Whole.
Our God is faithful, and He is worthy of our praise. As we enter the New Year, let us remember that He can be trusted, that we are exhorted to share His Word with all people, and that our Redeemer Lives!
As we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us remember His faithfulness and provision. God has always been true to His Word, and He can be trusted to be true to every promise made. He has saved us, He is saving us, and He will save us.
In 3 of the gospels the story of the unnamed woman, known only by her weakness, her sickness and her embarassment refused to give into hopelessness and talked herself into an encounter. AND GET THIS, not an encounter that Christ initiated, but one that originated with her. With all that she had suffered, with all that was missing, with all that was against her, she made an appointment (on her end) with the fringe of his garment, believing that EVEN NOW, power could, would flow from him to her, filling her with his sufficiency. To the needy, the hurting, the broken and the despondent; i am believing that our Lord will meet with us tomorrow and validate his word---- with virtue flowing from him to you..... that will leave you simply and surely WHOLE!
Much of the modern church is confused because their theology is based on misinformation, disinformation, incomplete information, rounded off with Hollywood's version of the end times and who the the preimminent man of that hour will be and what his role in the earth will encompass. We - who are of the light, understand fully that the scriptures and them alone explain the who of the Anti-christ, the when, the where and the how of his coming on the geopolitical scene; and His prophesied influence in and on the world preceding and including the tribulation
In the professing church and most of the world there is unbelief and or confusion, because of mis, dis, and incomplete information as well as hard hearts. But as believers, it is imperative that we know what "the second coming" is and isn't according to the scriptures, the why and how of his return and how we can accurately determine the signs and seasons that point to it's nearness. The King is Coming, and every eye will see Him
We will introduce more key terms related to prophecy, briefly examine the Dispensations (past, present and future) and if time allows begin our side by side comparison between The Rapture and The Revelation. As our foundational knowledge grows wider and deeper, we will begin to see clearly how to rightly DIVIDE the word of truth, not only understanding what the bible is saying, but who it is being said to and to the "when" it is addressing
The world mocks this statement, The false church refutes it. The carnal christian minimizes it, But those who know him, love him and look to him are quickened by desire and His Spirit to look for the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and savior Jesus Christ. For an undetermined amount of weeks we will examine together many of the fulfilled and unfulfilled prophecies of the bible. We will define the terms which allow us to rightly divide the word of truth, differentiate between the rapture and the second coming, look at prophecies that may or may not happen before his coming for the church, and examine the tracks being laid now for the GREAT TRIBULATION which is soon coming upon the world. This pastor is thoroughly convinced that we are the terminal generation, who will witness the Lord come in the brightness of his glory for his church, both the living and the dead. The King is definitely coming; And he is coming in an hour when the world thinketh not!
We have all known some of them, some of us have been them, others are becoming them; those that know the way and go another direction, those who know the path and choose to tread a worldly one, those who know his voice but do not follow and those who still carry his name but do not live under the same roof as He. Join us as we take a new look at an old tale, one as old as time and as close as family and your dearest friends. May those who have and are walking away, find the courage and the clarity to set their faces like flint to let nothing stop them from making it all the way back HOME
Today we examine the story of NaamanHe was healed of his leprosy, but pride is seen in both his life and the life of Elisha's servant, Gehazi. Join us as we examine the Scriptures and ourselves to consider how pride impacts the life of those that seek to follow Christ
The devil is not only active in the opposing of the gospel to those who are lost, but in disguising it and the manifold blessings of it to those who have been born from above. He manipulates believers through guilt, in the area of their weaknesses, encouraging them to take their eyes off Christ and put it on themselves and to unwillingly come back under a works based salvation. Yes we are to be repentant, in every way; but we are also to walk in the life and light provided by the God who accepts our repentance and FORGIVES US!
In the wake of humanism and relativism their seems to be misconceptions about the reality of sin, the definition of sin and those who practice sin. Every believer sins, but not every believer deals with their sins the same way. That's why some are uncovered, others are covered. Some are held close, others are turned from. Some are forgiven, and others are unforgiven. The reason truth is attacked today, is if there were not standard there would be no transgression; if there was no transgression there would be no guilt; if there was no guilt there would be no conviction; if there was no conviction there would be no repentance; and if there was no repentance there would be no forgiveness.
Leann Nichols and I will have the privilige of sitting at THE ROUND TABLE, with someone we have known for several decades as she shares with us an intimate and very vulnerable chronology of her walk away from God, the years of shame and bondage, and the joy of being forgiven living fully consecrated unto God! She is one of those people who never looks to be out front, or take a spotlight.....but feels that her journey so far (with it's failures, shame, forgiveness and restoration) will be a warning to those living outside of the boundaries of scripture and a STRONG ENCOURAGEMENT to those who are standing before the throne of God praying for their loved ones return. I believe with my whole heart that this day has the potential to literally pull people from the fire of destruction and fill our house with the song of the REDEEMED and RESTORED
We will be exploring the story in (Mark 2) when a man was lowered through the room and placed at the feet of Jesus and found himself forgiven and healed. It wasn't what the crowd had planned but it was everything the four was working toward; not just about them seeing Jesus but sharing Jesus. If Christ is in the house, their should be an expectancy in the believer.
This morning we study Psalm and glean instruction for living an honorable and blessed life before GodThe relationships in our life are important, so we must ask ourselves: "Who am I walking with in close relationship?"
This message examines the commonality and difficulty of continuing when one has been blindsided, broken or emptied; AND how tenderly and perfectly God deals with his servants there.
In the story of Lazarus we see.....1. The struggles of this life. 2.The God who did not prevent the preventable. 3.People who love the Lord, seemingly suffer unfairly. 4.His purposes unfold at His pace. 5.The power of His intervention and invitation. 6.And the responsibility of those who have received new life, to take off their graveclothes and live. Don't let the cemetery become your mailing address. Tell the story, change your clothes, wave goodbye.......AND LIVE
Every believer goes through trauma, but not all of them come out of it a worshipper. One who's outside may have been destroyed but their inside is a cool green hillside of faith and trust. These overcomers have something in common and all are able to possess. Join us as we examine the scriptures, finding out if there really is anything on the other side of trauma
Join us as we examine contemporary culture and Scripture to compare the deception of the age with biblical truth. It is our prayer that this comparison will provide a clear and proper biblical answer to the question: "What is a Christian?"
Being a Born Again Believer does not exempt us from storms of any kind; physical, financial, relational, mental, emotional etc... Sometimes experiencing them are just the part and parcel of living, Other times they are of our own making and it is not uncommon that our adversary orchestrates them to cause us to doubt, be afraid and even turn away from God. But this message will focuse more on the idea that God uses them, these storms. To introduce us to ourselves and to him, To teach us to pray, To reveal newer and d
As the days grow longer, more difficult, darker and dangerous....we as Christians will come not only into great trials, but various storms. Unannounced storms, violent storms, relentless storms, storms that cause fear. Storms that bring us to exhaustion and even fear. It is in these, that we need to remember in the dark what we knew in the light; this being that God almighty is not only in us, but with us, AND WILL NOT FORSAKE OR FAIL us
The thing that seperates many in the body of Christ today is not history, giftings, abilities or beliefs..... but posture of heart. How senstive are they to the grievings and pleasure of the Holy Spirit? How quick are they to confess of that which unlawful or unwise? How willingly, humbly, aggressively and thoroughly do they turn away from that which has been forbidden by God's word or his promptings? Those who are good at repentance; rarely struggle with little else
The thing that seperates many in the body of Christ today is not history, giftings, abilities or beliefs..... but posture of heart. How senstive are they to the grievings and pleasure of the Holy Spirit? How quick are they to confess of that which unlawful or unwise? How willingly, humbly, aggressively and thoroughly do they turn away from that which has been forbidden by God's word or his promptings? Those who are good at repentance; rarely struggle with little else
In this last day of evil, wickedness, temptation and destruction, the power to choose still rescues and restores mens souls. Most of the difference between Abraham and Lot is what they valued, where they lived, what they allowed and how they walked before the Lord God. The librarian of your past and the prophet of your future is found in what you esteem and the choices that flow from them. Join us as we take an honest look into the mirror of God's word making doubly sure that we are on the path that leads to eternal reward not temporal pleasure.
Today we examine the Scripture and our heart to answer the question "What do They Offer?" The world offers temporary happiness, but God offers restoration, redemption, and eternal lifeWhere will you choose to pitch your tent?
In light of what God has done for us individually, (as well as what he has done for our local church), it is of primary importance that we not only fully embrace what He has abounded toward us; but NOW having ALL SUFFICIENCY, in ALL THINGS, we (MUST PURPOSE AND COMMIT to ABOUND to every good work! It is one thing to have that blessing resting in our lap, and quite another to have the responsibility of it resting upon our head. We should have no desire or plans to be known by that which we own, but instead that which we have given away
By the time you witness them, they have been thoroughly incubated in the heart of God and have been set in motion by his decree, travelling from his invisible workings to his visible power, culminating in great glory for Jesus Christ the Lord. Join us as we examine the scriptures and explore biblical examples of when suddenlies happened and the greater good that FOLLOWED them in their wake
In our present world of ever available information we are lacking more than ever before the REVELATION of not only God's word, but his PERSON as well. I believe that this message (from the scriptures) has the power to shatter your man centered, earthly and inaccurate assessment of who God is and grant you a REVELATION that this same God of the Bible, lives in you by His Spirit and desires to move among his people in great power. Put your pole in the water! By faith, in obedience, with expectancy. It is time to FISH FOR A MIRACLE
Very few things in the life of the believer is more important than their love for the Lord and the WORK that flows from that. It is true we can bring nothing to the table as it pertains to our salvation; BUT others cannot and God will not bring anything to the table when it comes to our service unto him and others. It is a personal thing, It is a prioritous thing, It is a precious thing, It is a powerful thing. It is a predictable thing... It is how we will be known throughout eternity
In this wicked generation, in this last hour, and against the spiritual darkness that swept the world; we as believers, are going to need to live in the belief, the expectation and the supernatural power of God's Grace. Abounding grace, present grace, personal grace, powerful grace, sufficient grace; grace that not only changes the moment, but the man. Join us tomorrow as we examine the scriptures in search of the testimonies that were written before, showing us how buoyant grace makes the believer, and how in the end it is that which keeps us till the end.
All across the world, in many true churches, the story of the death, burial and resurrection will once again be held high as the core of the gospel, the intentions and plan of God for mankind, and the pouring forth of this grace abundantly. But what of our reaction, our response. It says in (Matthew) that when the disciples saw the resurrected Christ they worshipped him, but some doubted; so it is today. Some walk closely, some at a distance. Some love deeply, some have grown cold. Some cannot live without him, others have turned away having loved this present world. The sermon should either CONFIRM or CONVICT US; but either way, may God's spirit rest upon it in power drawing us ever closer to the one who gave his life for us.
Last week as Pastor Jason preached upon the subject of "Suit up" as it pertains to being prepared for raging war and relentless battle, I was stirred in my own heart with some things that i think will affirm and bolster those things that he shared, making us double down on all that it means to be prepared to stand in the evil day and having done all to stand.
Join us as we look at what scripture says about preparing for battle with the enemy through putting on the whole armor of God.
There is much unnecessary confusion as it pertains to the difference between the sealing of the believer with the Holy Spirit for identification and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit for power. The same goes with the supernatural GIFT of tongues for the edification of the church (when accompanied by interpretation) and the supernatural ability to SPEAK with tongues for the edification of the believer. This beautiful, divine, powerful, personal expression is not only scriptural but available to all who desire and receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit.
There is much unnecessary confusion as it pertains to the difference between the sealing of the believer with the Holy Spirit for identification and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit for power. The same goes with the supernatural GIFT of tongues for the edification of the church (when accompanied by interpretation) and the supernatural ability to SPEAK with tongues for the edification of the believer. This beautiful, divine, powerful, personal expression is not only scriptural but available to all who desire and receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit.
We continue our unplanned messages on the Holy Spirit, and will address the beauty, significance and joy of the Revival fires that are spreading across our land. To see this again after so many years, to know God has not altogether forsaken our nation and to see the power of the Holy Spirit is a beautiful and treasured thing. Join us as we examine the why of revival, the how and how to discern between the genuine and the imposter. May God take us from being eye witnesses on line, to those who encounter Him in person.
We have already studied about... 1). The indwelling of the Holy Spirit. 2). The empowerment of the Holy Spirit. 3). And today we will look at the many, specific, divine and unmistakable ways that the Holy Spirit helps us.
Not the earnest of the spirit (which was given to us at New Birth) but the fullness of the Spirit given to us by the Resurrected Christ. As believers in the terminal generation we have no greater need (this side of the cross and in this last hour) than to be baptized in the Holy Spirit and to walk and live in the fulness thereof. May we heed the call, accept the invitation and by faith recieve that which only Christ can give; The baptism of the Holy Spirit and Fire.
A call to Christ. A call to live out the call. A call to not overlook those that Christ died for.
Few things are more valuable to the believer (who already walks closely with the Lord) than to have clarity of mind and soul and the discernment of the Holy Spirit active and esteemed in his life. This discernment is designed as a defense and weapon for the believer and can be relied upon to avoid the tricks, traps and snares of the enemy. If you have it then you know; if you don't - you soon will, for the year to come will reveal it.
With all that happened in 2022, and the continual drift into godlessness, chaos, insanity and deception; there are things that the believer MUST be prepared for and prepared with.As we go forward, we go with eyes open and lifted voices. We go forward with clean hands and healthy souls, With divine ableness and weaponry. With the Word of God hidden in our heart, on our lips and in our hand (sword). Forward with a unashamed reliance upon God and an undeterred expectancy of God.
Today we will ask ourselves the questions Do I? and Will I? Do I believe Jesus, and Will I believe Jesus? Do I want Jesus, and Will I want Jesus? Do I follow Jesus, and Will I follow Jesus? The question shifts from "Do I?" to "Will I?" as our commitment to believe, want, and follow become problematic. Be encouraged as we prepare to stand for Christ by asking ourselves honest questions.
Christmas is the season in which we rehearse again the birth of the lamb of God who was to take away the sin of the world. But the story does not end there; it also covers how people responded to him. From the innkeeper who ignored him as insignificant, Herod who hated the very idea of him, The Shepherds who immediately responded to heavens voice, And the wise men who followed God's leading all the way to Christ....opening their treasures and their souls in the pure worship of him.
This is not your typical message on WHY you should be thankful, but instead on why you should BE thankful. Thankfulness is not a fruit of the Holy Spirit, but a decision of the human will; it is a determined, purposeful, decision to act upon our awareness of what God has done for us. So many people seek experiences under the hands of other people, when there are very few things that will ever happen in your christian life that carry the power or weight of BEING a thankful person. May God quicken this word to our heart, knit it to the fabric of our soul, conforming us closer and closer to the image of Jesus Christ.
The bible teaches us in (James 4:14) that our life is just like a vapor that appeareth for a little while, and then vanisheth away." If we are only here for a little while, why do we act as if it will be a long while? May God brand this phrase "a little while" on the inside of our eyelids that we may never forget the brevity of our life and the certainty of our standing before Him whose eyes are a flame of fire to give an account for it. If we truly lived in the light of eternity, i wonder how different, powerful, fruitful and enjoyable our day to day lives would be?
Why is it that soldiers find comfort in the consolation of other soldiers, new mamas look to those who have successfully raised their babies, and other believers look to those who have remained faithful? It is because they have travelled the same paths, had similar if not the same experiences, and their stories of how Christ preserved them and the advice that they might give are like water to the parched soul.
There are as many types of depression as there are people, and the reasons for it as well. In last weeks message we looked at the power of prayer in those season, but this message will deal with our part in it. The part we rarely discuss. When we see our feelings more clearly and articulate them more fully than we ever do our responsibilities to it and the power of God available to us in it. Not all victory is from something, sometimes it is "in something". Join us as we examine this reality in the life of those found in the scripture at the bottom and set their feet back upon the rock and in his purpose".
One of the greatest paradoxes in the history of man is bound christians. People who name his name, have partaken of his Spirit, whose names are written in the lambs book of life, and who know his promises.....and yet live their lives in subjection to a vice, a lust, a person or a compromise. May the light of his word will illuminate our individual situations in such a way that we repent for the things we have allowed and enter into that which has purchased for us by our precious and mighty Savior. Absolute Freedom!
This subject of the Lords return is misunderstood, misapplied and maligned by the world and fallen out of favor by this present generation of professing believers. But it's truth, power and finality remains. The Lord is coming for his church in the clouds, The Lord will return with his church to the earth, Then the Lord will reign on the earth with his bride by his side. This hope is a blessed hope and still remains unchanged although greatly challenged. (Hebrews 9:28) "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."
This subject of the Lords return is misunderstood, misapplied and maligned by the world and fallen out of favor by this present generation of professing believers. But it's truth, power and finality remains. The Lord is coming for his church in the clouds, The Lord will return with his church to the earth, Then the Lord will reign on the earth with his bride by his side. This hope is a blessed hope and still remains unchanged although greatly challenged. (Hebrews 9:28) "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."
Today we discuss what it means to seek the Lord. Why should we seek the Lord? How are we to seek the Lord? When should we seek the Lord? Join us as we discuss these questions and trust the Lord to bring clarity to us from His Word.
In every life, whether of your own choosing, someone else's intervention or by God's leading you will experience events and or seasons on the waters of life where you cannot feel bottom and eventually you cannot see land. In these waters, not all vessels make it back home. Some capsize, other travelers settle on a far away land forgetting where they came from, and others just seem to simply vanish into thin air. But there are others, THERE ARE OTHERS, who travel there, do business, see the works of the Lord, stare death in the face and come out rejoicing, proclaiming the goodness of God and the power of HIS wonderful works.
Waiting is something that we all experience. For the believer, "how" we wait is what matters.
Yesterday I turned 60 years old, but as i look over my shoulder at all that is behind me....I can say without any fear of contradiction, that the Lord has been near, faithful, kind, patient, generous, gracious and always present with and for me. There is nothing good in my life that hasn't come from him, and nothing in this world that i want outside of him or his will. Tomorrows message will be my attempt to honor him with my reflective testimony and unpack the story of Samuel's Ebenezer moment!
Wicked is such a strong word, and even more stunning when it is coupled with the word "believer" or "servant". There are many forms of wickedness a believer can fall into, but there is one so severe that according to scripture you may not come back from it In a dream last night, I believe it was the Lord who stirred me to this topic and message; knowing in his omniscience who would be here and who would be watching on line. Search us O God, and try our hearts and help us see if there be any wicked way in us.....that we may repent and turn far from it.
The entirety of God's word is perfect and profitable, but there are differences and emphasis that are found when we rightly divide the word of truth; that seem to zero in on where we are turn all the lights on. This is one such verse. Its truth is simple, absolute and without exception. It is the kind of verse that would be on heavens phone system, if you ever found yourself on hold.It is the anthem of those who have gone before us and the wisdom of those who are older and remain. This one verse is pure oxygen to those who can't catch their breath, Shade for those who have traveled in the blistering sun and cool water for those dying of thirst, It is morphine for those who live with unspeakable pain and sweet rest to the weary, It is the divine and unchanging truth of God's word that brings perspective and clarity to EVERY situation.
The first miracle of Jesus has much to teach about the where, how and why of his pulling back the drape of his power and glory at this moment in time.
The feeding of the 5000 is one of the few stories in the gospels that is found in all four books. The primary lesson is of course that Christ is the bread of life that feeds mens souls, that he is the creator of everything that is in this world and all things continue and are kept by the power of God. But there are several important lessons here for us that precede this miracle. These are not a formula, but a compilation of truths that will guide us as we navigate seasons of lack and insufficiency.
This Syrophenician woman who through many obstacles approaches Jesus on behalf of her daughter who was demon possessed. On it's surface it would be easy to misunderstand what was really going on and how it would make application to us today....but one thing that most people miss is right under the surface of the narrative. This alien womans cry reached the ear of God, touched the heart of God and opened the hand of God. And remember this, with God NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE!
The bible is clear that Satan is currently the prince of this world, and all that is in the world (seen, felt, heard, and experienced) is designed to turn our hearts and feet away from God our creator. Yes the currents are strong, but the Holy Spirit inside of us is STRONGER STILL.
Whether it is by loss, pain, disappointment, responsibilities, betrayal or suffering; the feelings and the unanswered questions are similar if not the same. How can i continue, finish, start over or change tracks? Will this end, How will this end, will i still be here in the end and is this the end? King David was no stranger to great pain, great sorrow, great opposition and great breakthroughs and his first psalm, the first he recorded was one not only for himself and peers, but for all of us to follow.
Every christian has their own lusts, but not all christians treat them the same. Some do not despise them, see them clearly, or distance themselves from their deceptive destruction. This message is a timely reminder in the day and age where nothing is off limits and the casualties are innumerable. Living clean, victorious, and free; others cannot do it for you and God will not do it for you. But you can, through humility, sobriety of heart, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Today we will be honoring our graduates and I will be sharing a message entitled "From Here". It is not primarily inspiring, although I hope it inspires. It is not primarily motivational, although God may use it to motivate you. It is not primarily correction, although we each may feel the conviction of the Holy Spirit in some of these areas. But it is an awareness, a challenge, an opportunity to make decisions now that we can implement in the days to come. Decisions to be faithful, good, true, effective, and powerful. Decisions to live separate from the world, and near unto Christ. Decisions that will not only become librarians of the past, but prophets of our future.
Every christian has them, but not all christians treat them the same. Some do not despise them, see them clearly, or distance themselves from their deceptive destruction. This message is a timely reminder in the day and age where nothing is off limits and the casualties are innumerable. Living clean, victorious, and free; others cannot do it for you and God will not do it for you. But you can, through humility, sobriety of heart, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
The weight upon our mothers (and women in general) is greater than ever before and greater than they can bear. Relational pressure, social pressure, cultural pressure, pressure without and within. Others cannot help, and self medication only leads to darkness, destruction, and regret. This message will remind them of his nearness, his care, his power, and willingness to meet them right where they are in this moment. So may the cry come forth, "Lord I need thee!!" And the answer fall like rain, "I am here!!"
Yes heaven is our eternal finish line, but there are many finish lines, promised lands, large places, and strongholds like Zion that await spirit filled believers who will not quit, who will not look back, who will not wilt in the last hour. They are overcomers, and you will recognize them by their overcoming. Against all odds and obstacles, they make it to the other side (where Jesus awaits them).
The reality of this event in the past, the implications of that event in the present, and the certainty of that event in the future has the power to transform our life, realign our priorities and give us courage in the face of any obstacle. The resurrection is not just a historical fact but a promised one to come.
Today we examine Christ's triumphant entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Jesus fulfilled many prophesies throughout His life, and His entrance into Jerusalem on the Sunday before Passover was another event that confirms His Lordship. Join us as we study His Word and encourage ourselves through the remembrance of His faithfulness.
The bible instructs us concerning the responsibility and opportunity of examining ourselves to make sure that we do not walk aay from, in opposition to and contrary to the person and word of God. Just like in the natural, many of us are hesitant to get physical exams because of what we might find. It is just easier to stick our head in the sand and hope for the best. This type of roulette is especially dangerous when it comes to the matters of the heart and spirit.
The bible tells us in Hebrews that once more the Lord will shake the entire earth as well as the heavens. The shaking will be violent, strategic, destructive, and prepatory. The world will be enraged, the professing church will be confused, and much will be lost. But God is crystal clear concerning the distinguishing mark: "SO THAT WHICH CANNOT BE SHAKEN SHALL REMAIN". Before the final shaking come the birth pains...and they have already begun.
There is a simple, divine, personal, and glorious dynamic found in the spirit led intentional and reflexive praise of and for God! It is not only required of us to worship God in spirit and in truth, but His praise should continually be in our mouth; the fruit of our lips giving thanks.
There is a simple, divine, personal, and glorious dynamic found in the spirit led intentional and reflexive praise of and for God! It is not only required of us to worship God in spirit and in truth, but His praise should continually be in our mouth; the fruit of our lips giving thanks.
In this story, a man who started so pure, so courageous, so powerful, and so validated, found himself deceived by an older prophet, enticing him to contradict what he knew to be truth and paid the ultimate penalty for it. GOD JUDGED HIM IN THE STREET! This message will be both an encouragement for those of us who fear the Lord and a warning for those who are following the crowd instead of following the Christ.
Today we continue our study on the confidence of the believer. Join us as we remind ourselves that God is still our provider, our deliverer, and our confidence.
As our world freefalls from the ledge of godliness, decency, morality, and sanity...people are looking to the church to see if there is any hope there, any substance, any power. The scrutiny is not coming to the building, but IN THE PEOPLE who make up the local assembly. Common people who possess an uncommon grace, perspective, and power that does not look anything like religion or the world. A person who the world can look upon and say "the Spirit of God resides upon this one!" The answer to the question (where is the God of Elijah) should be able to be honestly answered - In and On Me! O God, let the mantles of submission to you and power from you be found cloaked about our necks.
But when Jesus was asked, what would be the sign of his coming and the end of the age, he replied immediately and simply; "be careful that no man deceive you!" Never has the spirit of error, deception, and spiritual perversion been more prevalent than it is in the professing church than it is today; and never more important for us to know fully what the gospel is and what it is not.
In today's culture, the media highlights and praises those who denounce their faith in God, turn away from the truth, or recreate a God made in their image. But the sad reality is that there are many among us who have already left in their heart and others who have set out on their own journey away from the watchful and caring eyes of the Father and find themselves in a distant land of waste, bondage, and regret. But the good news is that a prodigal son can come home at any time.
There are many circumstances in the life of the believer today that can cause doubt to creep into our mind. However, God is our firm foundation, and every believer can have a divine confidence when faced with the storms of life. Join us as we reflect on the confidence found in Christ.
The life, warfare, witness, and journey of the believer is hard. It is a narrow way, a violent way, a seemingly unending and exhausting way. That is why the bible tells us in 2 Tim 2 "to endure HARDNESS as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." This message deals with the common difficulties and trials of a soldier of Jesus Christ and what we must remember to do in the heat of the battle.
The greatest need in the life of EVERY born again believer is to be FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, and to walk in the fullness therof. Regardless of your background in the church, the word of God is crystal clear about His reality, His role, and our desperate need for Him.
Every life has its share of difficulty, stress, and problems. But there are also seasons of water deep enough to sink in, currents strong enough to sweep you away, and fires hot enough to consume your life. It is in these moments and to these people that I bring forth the aforementioned message that you can, that you are, and that you shall pass through this. Keep following the shepherd, you will soon be safely home.
I have never been one to pick a "word" in hope for the upcoming year, or to be trendy, nor have I really sought the Lord for an individual word for the year ahead. I have however been able to lable them quite accurately when they are concluded. This year, I believe the word has found me. One that did not come at my request, but at my need. One that will buttress us; encourage, strengthen, and champion us. One that cannot be argued, cancelled, minimized, or overcome. May God anoint his word (this word) if He so chooses and knit it to the very fabric of our soul as we face 2022.
In our current culture, there is no mention or consideration of the plans of God for us individually or collectively. In the church, sadly the plans are always seemingly referred to as great, magnificent, easy, and prosperous. Although the previous statement is not true, it is true that God has plans for each of us, plans that may not look like greatness in the eyes of men, but plans that can be greatly fruitful, greatly rewarding, greatly God honoring and glorying, and greater (larger) than the life we may be living today.
Most of us if not all have been experienced not only the lack of prayer, but a lack of confidence when we do. The problem never falls at the feet of God, so we must look closely at what we are doing when we pray and what we are not doing. There is so much to gain, so much to lose, and the results can be irreversable. Join us as we take an honest look at why we pray, how we pray, and our expectancy when we pray.
We will continue to examine what the bible teaches concerning not only the event, but the ones that are a part of it. The invited (those who came and those who didn't), the wise and foolish, the prepared and unprepared, those on the inside of the door and those locked out, those who are blessed with reward and those who are consumed with regret. What Christ said then, He says to all today...WATCH, for in such a time that you think not the Son of Man cometh.
This message deals with the nearness and certainty of the approaching "day of the Lord" and the catching away of his church before the wrath of God is revealed from heaven.
This message deals with the nearness and certainty of the approaching "day of the Lord" and the catching away of his church before the wrath of God is revealed from heaven.
This message examines and explains the commonalities of the world at the time of Noah and the day in which we live today.
The days before the return of the Lord for his church and then back to the world before Armageddon will be easy to identify according to the scriptures; "they will be like the days of Noah." This message explores the types and shadows making clear the prophetic implications.
Much is said in the Bible about the kingdom of God, what it is and what it is not. Awareness of this kingdom brings meaning to life and gives us the clarity to live our lives solely for the glory of the King, Our King.
As believers, we must live in the change accompanies our salvation. Seeking to grow, walking in victory.
Spiritual deception is at an all time high in its relentless current, cunning variations, and cloaked darkness. The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians that "even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light". This message pulls back the curtain on the many faces of satanic deception and those who wittingly and unknowingly wear the disguises.
Every believer has access to and should expect complete victory, in every situation and season if they live fully surrendered to Christ. In this nearness, we share in all that he is, has and has promised. There is no defeat that can be laid at the feet of God, only our own.
Every believer has access to and should expect complete victory, in every situation and season if they live fully surrendered to Christ. In this nearness, we share in all that he is, has and has promised. There is no defeat that can be laid at the feet of God, only our own.
This message will be an INSPIRATIONAL reminder of what not to forget in this last hour. What to be on guard against, what to strengthen, where to keep your eyes and how to straighten your path. This we know, God did not give us a spirit of FEAR, but of love, power, and A SOUND MIND.
Take dead aim! Science calls this target fixation. That means we go where we focus. So what are you focused on today?
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him and the reward that awaits us based upon our works, service, and generosity in this life for His glory.
The gospel of Mark opens with a revelation of Jesus Christ and then he quickly hits us with a hard reality. The gospel demands a response. We cannot just be spectators of the gospel, for faith to be faith it must activate our spirits into fruitful lives.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him and the reward that awaits us based upon our works, service, and generosity in this life for His glory.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him and the reward that awaits us based upon our works, service, and generosity in this life for His glory.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him and the reward that awaits us based upon our works, service, and generosity in this life for His glory.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him and the reward that awaits us based upon our works, service, and generosity in this life for His glory.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him as we travel home. This walk is intentional and directional, and is left up to us as to which road to follow.
It takes a man to raise sons. We live in a culture that has declared war on every notion of Biblical living. Today we look at 7 characteristics of being a Godly father.
Many contemporary churches do not function according to a biblical definition of Church. Join us as we examie how scripture directs the Church to engage with God and one another.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him as we travel home. This walk is intentional and directional, and is left up to us as to which road to follow.
This summer series will bring to mind and remind us of who it is that we are serving and how our will and choices are the sole determining factor in how near we walk with him as we travel home. This walk is intentional and directional, and is left up to us as to which road to follow.
A message of hope. Reminding us that God will always come through if we continue to trust, believe, and obey.
Some of the most important parts of our lives and assuredly the most common have to do with the privilege and power of choice. We are not all given the same things and opportunities, but we all have the same power to choose what we do with what we have. And it is in these choices that our lives will either be one of great reward or great regret.
In this story we see the Israelites committing sin and then are eyeitnesses to the judgment of God upon them for their sins. Helpless they cry out to God's deliverer Moses, to pray for them and God hearing HIS PRAYER, provided a remedy. So it is today, whosoever looks to Christ as a remedy for their sin, he becoming a curse for them, also becomes their remedy.
This message is not about self-help, a strategy, or a coping mechanism...but a word from heaven, that will bring to the believer a divine clarity of mind, an infusion of strength and the will to perservere. Not by might, not by power, but by my spirit says the Lord.
How is it that some believers praise him loudly in the daylight and are quiet at midnight? Why are their voices controlled by what is going on around them, instead of being stirred by what is insided of them. The answer is quite simple, but it takes a humble heart and receptive ear to receive it. The good news is that every one can sing in the darkness and that God's power and deliverance often joins us there.
This message will examine the reality of the resurrection of Christ and what it means to us temporally and eternally as believers. It is the same Jesus, same spirit, same power....shouldn't we expect the same results.
Your praise is distinctively individual; based on your revelation of God, the humility of your heart, your awareness of all he has done and given and fueled by that same gratitude. Everyone, without exception, gets to choose the quality, quantity, and authenticity of their own praise. Others cannot do it for you and God will not.
When Christians hear the word praise, they immediately think of congregational, or songs alone. But praise has way more to do with revelation, maturity, and posture of heart than it does public expression alone. Our praise is responsibility, expectation, and necessity for wholeness of soul, mind, and body.
In this series, we will look with open faces into the reality, glory, necessity, and divine requirement of the substitutionaly work of Jesus Christ on the cross; contrasting it with the dilution, distortion, and pollution of that same gospel in much of the west today. This last day stand as believers will demand that we not only contend for the faith, but also be able to clearly, boldly, and unashamedly articulate it as well.
In this series, we will look with open faces into the reality, glory, necessity, and divine requirement of the substitutionaly work of Jesus Christ on the cross; contrasting it with the dilution, distortion, and pollution of that same gospel in much of the west today. This last day stand as believers will demand that we not only contend for the faith, but also be able to clearly, boldly, and unashamedly articulate it as well.
In this series, we will look with open faces into the reality, glory, necessity, and divine requirement of the substitutionaly work of Jesus Christ on the cross; contrasting it with the dilution, distortion, and pollution of that same gospel in much of the west today. This last day stand as believers will demand that we not only contend for the faith, but also be able to clearly, boldly, and unashamedly articulate it as well.
In this series, we will look with open faces into the reality, glory, necessity, and divine requirement of the substitutionaly work of Jesus Christ on the cross; contrasting it with the dilution, distortion, and pollution of that same gospel in much of the west today. This last day stand as believers will demand that we not only contend for the faith, but also be able to clearly, boldly, and unashamedly articulate it as well.
In this series, we will look with open faces into the reality, glory, necessity, and divine requirement of the substitutionaly work of Jesus Christ on the cross; contrasting it with the dilution, distortion, and pollution of that same gospel in much of the west today. This last day stand as believers will demand that we not only contend for the faith, but also be able to clearly, boldly, and unashamedly articulate it as well.
As we enter into a new chapter in the last days of the church here on earth, it is imperative that we are prepared for anything and everything that will come against our union with and testimony concerning Jesus Christ. No man can pluck us from his hand, but we can through deception and cowardice walk away.
As we enter into a new chapter in the last days of the church here on earth, it is imperative that we are prepared for anything and everything that will come against our union with and testimony concerning Jesus Christ. No man can pluck us from his hand, but we can through deception and cowardice walk away.
Justice is in the heart of every man, woman, and child. We want it, demand it, and sometimes hurt for it. But what is justice, how can I get justice. As we unpack the story of a woman who being marginalized by society, didn't construct her story based on what they thought, what she could achieve, or by judgements against others, but found everything she needed at the feet of Jesus.
Having finished the book last week with Part 11: Restoration, I wanted to go back and address 3 things we did not cover and reemphasize one that is foundational for us as Believers and critical for the days that are ahead of us.
By now the power of our kinsman and the reality of all that our redemption included and provided has caused us to bow our heads, lift our voices in gratitude, adoration, and praise. But God is not finished; it wasn't enough to redeem, HE was set on restoring...and this restoration will literally take your breath away.
As we have studied the life of Ruth, we have recognized the workings of God in finding her, rescuing her, moving her, and guiding her; but in this lesson, we will look at her response in her preparing herself for Boaz. To come before him in faith, in humility, in purity, and in confidence that He is able to do for her what she cannot do for herself; "Redeem Her".
At the heart of the Christmas message is the statement: "for unto us, is born a SAVIOR, Christ the Lord". If it were not for that phrase, that reality, that experience, the act of him saving us; there would be no covering, no mercy, no hope, and without God. He did not just model how to live for us; He gave us his very life.
Many times the stories of the Bible become just good stories for Christian entertaining, what if these are not merely stories to entertain us but rather stories to catapult into the life that Christ has purposed for us.
One of the most foundational truths that I have learned and consistently lean on in my faith in Jesus Christ is that..."God always has a plan, He is working the plan, and He will finish the plan." This divine plan is based on perfect knowledge and backed by perfect power. It is interconnected, layered, and overseen by the Ancient of Days.
One of the most foundational truths that I have learned and consistently lean on in my faith in Jesus Christ is that..."God always has a plan, He is working the plan, and He will finish the plan." This divine plan is based on perfect knowledge and backed by perfect power. It is interconnected, layered, and overseen by the Ancient of Days.
One of the most beautiful parts of Ruth's journey to God is in her introduction to, revelation of and intervention by her kinsman/redeemer. We watch in the story as her past seems to make sense as it pushes her closer to God's design and intention for her life. Make no mistake, it wasn't through her design, effort, or manipulation, but beautifully revealed through the strong arm of Boaz.
Ruth's journey in so many ways mirrors ours. From pagan to righteous, from rejected to accepted, from darkness to light. But her journey in God was not without pain and proving.
In this message, we examine how grace was operating in the life of Ruth. Both knowingly and unknowingly, visible and invisible. In fact it is a beautiful type of how everything good and divine reaches our life...by grace.
How do we remain steadfast in the Lord in the middle of a culture that is evil and constantly growing more evil? Join us as we look into the life of Elijah were in there was in the solitude of Gilead that Elijah had communed with Jehovah and had been trained by Him for this great journey: there he had "waited" upon the Lord, and there had he obtained "strength" for his task.
We have all had those moments where life does not turn out the way we hoped or expected. The liminal space in our lives that separates where we are from where God has purposed for us becomes the pivotal point of our lives. As we look into the life of Elijah and listen to the tender voice of God that speaks to us gently leading us into His path.
This sermon examines Ruth's journey of faith from Paganism to Judaism and is a perfect type of all of us who are Gentiles and how we are engrafted into the lineage and person of Jesus Christ.
In this message, we examine Naomi as a type of the believer who spends time, maybe years away from God's house, God's people, and God's presence only to find that all that was out there and promised was only a mirage, and that God by His Spirit is turning her heart back home.
This series unfolds many beautiful and reoccurring dynamics found in our redemption and reconciliation back to God and our journeying with Him as believers.
This series unfolds many beautiful and reoccurring dynamics found in our redemption and reconciliation back to God and our journeying with Him as believers.
In a crazy world, where we only have one life, why choose Jesus regarding that one life and eternity?
Our greatest pursuit in life should be to seek the pleasure of God. We cannot do this apart from faith. Our greatest joy can only be found as we experience the pleasure of God. Everything you've ever wanted, every desire, the thing you long for most is found in the pleasure of God. Join us as we take a look at faith and how Jairus' faith, birthed out of desperation, is a display of the life Christ is calling us into as disciples. To be people full of faith delighting in the pleasure of God.
We continue our series on what God expects of the believer and what the true believers in Christ should expect in and from the world in the days right before his appearing for the church and coming tribulation period that will come upon the world. Sexual immorality has given way to deviance and depravity, and sadly sweeping away many who name the name of Christ. Having been deceived by Satanic powers, those who practice sexual sin feel that they are exempt from God's word and excluded from his judgment. Join us today as we examine ourselves in the light of God's word making sure that we are not practicing the sins, behaviors, and living out of the mindset that God clearly declares "shall not inherit the kingdom of God". (Ephesians 5:3) "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you...as becometh saints"
Winds are blowing not only across our nation, but across the world. Violent winds, relentless winds, cross winds, and destructive winds. Winds that are blowing people off of foundations that have stood for centuries. But as believers we are to stand fast against the winds and remember that we are called to be Christ's ambassadors, His voice, the light of the world and true north for every living compass. Praying that this will be a clarifying, empowering, and encouraging word to every believer that wants to not only finish strong, but to FINISH RIGHT.
Winds are blowing not only across our nation, but across the world. Violent winds, relentless winds, cross winds, and destructive winds. Winds that are blowing people off of foundations that have stood for centuries. But as believers we are to stand fast against the winds and remember that we are called to be Christ's ambassadors, His voice, the light of the world and true north for every living compass. Praying that this will be a clarifying, empowering, and encouraging word to every believer that wants to not only finish strong, but to FINISH RIGHT.
There are many things in the life of a believer that work to disqualify you from God's presence a well as God's mission. Too many times we can allow these things to define us. Today, we will take a look at how the Gospel not only restores value to us as believers but sets us into the mission of Christ.
In the life of every believer you will experience times where there is an unmistakable gap between when you call out to God and when he answers, between when you start looking for him and he shows up, between what he has promised and the fulfillment of those promises. The issue for us in these times is not to have our questions answered, but an assurance that our prayers are heard. I believe this may very well be one of those Sundays where God's word finds us right where we are and we are eyewitnesses to his glory, in our life (both internally and externally).
In Matthew 22 Jesus informed the Saducees that the cause of their confustion, the path that led them away from the truth and the hindrance of them drawing closer and having fellowship with Christ was their ignorance of the word of God, and their minimalist view of God. So it is with us today; much if not all of what makes us anxious, confuses us, hinders and overwhelms us is that we aren't governed by His truth and we are not resting secure in His power.
Part 1 of our Storm Chaser series: We live in a broken and fallen world all around us. We see he effects of sin on our society, our nation, our town, and even in ourselves. We take a look at the work of Faith in the believers life, how we are brought from death into light and called unto His purpose.
I don't know a man or a father that is not weary. We are weary of the weight and responsibility that is our lot. We are weary of the breaking down of our physical bodies and the pain that accompanies it. We are weary of the societal decline in standards, definitions, the flood of perversion and immorality, the evil that is presented as good, and the deception that cannot be reasoned with. We are weary of the carnality, lukewarmness and apostasy of the church, its ministers, and its people. We are weary of humanism, liberalism, relativism, fake news, and leftist propaganda. We are weary from our disappointment, disillusionment, what has happened behind us, and what we see right in front of us, what seems to be inevitable in the future. We are weary from the strain of leading, covering, protecting, and continuously redirecting and reeducating our family and all whom God has given us influence over. The source of this weariness for those of us who are born from above is the powers of hell that are set in full array against us in all the ways mentioned before and in countless other ways that time will not allow. It is to you, the weary men, the fathers, the war torn, and the warriors...
There seems to be a great disconnect in what is being taught today in our churches and what was preached from the beginning. There is no grace that is not followed by absolute upheaval and transformation in the life of the one who receives this new life. Old things pass away, and ALL things become new. New desires, new priorities, new sensitivities, new beliefs, as well as actions. This change does not originate in our flesh, but it is fleshed out through the crucifixtion of our old lusts and desires by self denial The Potters wheel only crushes those who remain on it.
The greatest need in the body of Christ today is to be baptized, filled, and walk in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Divine enablement; For the weakness inside of us, the obstacles in front of us, and the opposition that surrounds us. This power is perfect, it is present, it is sufficient, and it is available for the hungry and pure in heart. Lord we need you, we desperately need you. Touch our parched soul with the glory of your Spirit. Draw us, heal us, fill us, and revive us. Only you can...and it is to you we look.
When you start living on mission, it doesn't take long before we step into a moment of testing. How can we walk through these moments, receiving our scars, yet with hearts full of hope and lives full of passion.
What if life could be more than a series of problems to overcome? What if there is an opportunity out there to experience more, have a deeper relationship, and greater depth with God. Well there is. This morning we will look into the life of Abraham, hear God's call to come and follow me, and step into the adventure that God has set before us.
God's word is clear that as it was in the days of Noah and Lot, so shall it also be in the world at the time of his return for his church then with his church judging the world. One of these examples is Lot's wife. Inches from salvation, only to die in her sins.
When God called Abraham he tells him to pack up, move, get ready to go, because we are going on an adventure, and I'll let you know as we go. So often we want our calling to be a place rather than a journey or something easily obtained. Yet the author of Hebrews calls us into a race and to run with great endurance. So let's lace up our shoes, lighten our load, and look towards the prize.
A proper understanding and full confidence in the return of Jesus Christ for his church is the motivation that fuels our work and helps us keep an eternal perspective as we sojourn here on the earth.
A proper understanding and full confidence in the return of Jesus Christ for his church is the motivation that fuels our work and helps us keep an eternal perspective as we sojourn here on the earth.
There is no other, He is the first and the last, the promised one, the faithful one, the sufficient one, and the reigning one. And it is to Him we look yesterday, today, and in every day to follow. All Hail the Resurrected Son, Jesus Christ the Lord!
Jesus' pray right before his final moments, and in His prayer He makes appeals to His Father that His disciples have everything they need in the wake of His soon departure Join us today as we explore the practical implications of this for our local Church body.
We are living in unprecedented times for us, but not for those who have gone before us. Greater plagues, greater loss, greater uncertainty, and greater fear. But it is these times that do not make, but reveal those who know Jesus Christ as LORD, and who dwell in the secret place of the most high. They are fully aware of all that is happening around them and that which seems headed this way as well as the looming uncertainty in the unknown. But they are not anxious, not fearful, and are at rest.... because although our nation and world has changed, nothing WHERE THEIR CITIZENSHIP IS LOCATED HAS CHANGED! Chains of uncertainty and fear are easily broken by the power that dwelleth in us by faith. God still rules, God still reigns, God still is in control, and God still has the final say.
We are living in unprecedented times for us, but not for those who have gone before us. Greater plagues, greater loss, greater uncertainty, and greater fear. But it is these times that do not make, but reveal those who know Jesus Christ as LORD, and who dwell in the secret place of the most high. They are fully aware of all that is happening around them and that which seems headed this way as well as the looming uncertainty in the unknown. But they are not anxious, not fearful, and are at rest.... because although our nation and world has changed, nothing WHERE THEIR CITIZENSHIP IS LOCATED HAS CHANGED! Chains of uncertainty and fear are easily broken by the power that dwelleth in us by faith. God still rules, God still reigns, God still is in control, and God still has the final say.
Jesus calls His disciples with a distinct purpose. Often we think these purposes to be bold and eye catching and maybe they can be. But where do we start, with a measure of faith.
Sincerity is not a guarantee of God's acceptance. The Bible is clear we must worship him in spirit and according to truth. This message will by God's grace bring clarity to that which God has accepted and that which simply fell to the ground.
Sincerity is not a guarantee of God's acceptance. The Bible is clear we must worship him in spirit and according to truth. This message will by God's grace bring clarity to that which God has accepted and that which simply fell to the ground.
You will never experience anything like the touch of God upon your heart. Nothing can equal this revelation to the soul, the comfort of His voice, the sense of His realness, and the warmth of His acceptance. Real faith is never an exercise in the knowledge of scripture, for the word must be accompanied with power to produce a real display of faith.
Everything that has breath is commanded to praise the Lord, but worship comes only from those who know the Lord, who by revelation see who is and appreciate that which has been done for them. Its expression never exceeds the worshippers view of him.
Here is a woman who was outside the commonwealth of Israel, had no claims upon Christ, but was recognized by the Lord as one who had great faith. This faith was legitimate, based on the word of God, vocal and tenacious; moving the heart of God and receiving a mirale based upon her confession.
As another decade has passed, so have the hopes, desires, faith, and expectancy of many believers. The pain, sorrow, and loss of yesterday has blinded them to the promise of a new morning. But like Jesus did when the disciples went back to fishing, He stands on the shore of our new day, beckoning us to abandon our powerlessness, fatigue, and futility and to come and dine in what he has prepared for us. Yes our tomorrows will have their share of disappointments and challenges...but the morning always comes, yes THE MORNING ALWAYS COMES!
The story of the man being lowered down from a torn roof then miraculously healed by Jesus has many things to say to the modern church. There needs to be more people carried, there needs to be more ceilings removed. There needs to be need in our midst to draw out his supply and more room for him to do what he chooses and pleases.
We all hunger for community, but often lack the tools to build it. Today, I want us to look at some simple tools that we cn use to create gospel centered community.
There is much to learn from the shepherds in the Christmas story, primarily how they took information God had given them and took it as an invitation to experience.
Often times, church can easily become a religion for winners instead of a shelter for the weeak. The call to discipleship is often mistaken as us working for God asking Him to bless our efforts. But the Gospel compels us to change, to be transformed, to listen to the voice of Jesus, hear what He is doing, and attach our faith to His works.
This series is a scriptural study in the reality of Satan; where he dwells, the power he has, his limistations, and how we as believers can avoid the tactics and schemes he uses to destroy men's lives.
This series is a scriptural study in the reality of Satan; where he dwells, the power he has, his limistations, and how we as believers can avoid the tactics and schemes he uses to destroy men's lives.
Satan is the usurper of God and the adversary of all of God's people, plans, and promises. We must know who he is and how he operates that we might be able to stand against him until the end.
The difference between our battles and our storms is that in our battles we are expected to overcome, win the victory of our enemy; but in our storms we are only required to survive. And we do that the same way we win our battles... by Faith.
Christ is building His Kingdome, He has chosen to build it through your story. Here in Mark, Jesus is fulfilling the Kingdom of God (promise of Him restoring all things) through building relationships and restoring people.
In life two of our most difficult experiences are those things that make us afraid, and those things we have to wait on. David shows us by teaching and example how to navigate them in faith and faithfulness and expects of us, and hinders our progress in all things concerning our faith.
One thing you learn in the wilderness is that there are no shortcuts, and that the wilderness will test you and show you who you are.
Paul's life story unfolded in the book of Acts with many obstacles, betrayals, abandonment, sorrows, and physical weakness. There was a messenger of Satan set to buffet him and the physical and psychological pain of being publicly flogged and even stoned to death. But he made a statement that will be the subject of our message: "None of these things move me". Join us as we examine the mindset, traits, and life patterns of those in the faith who overcome and are unmovable.
This message deals with the departure of those who name the name of Christ from the Father's house and the joy and restoration of those who go back home.
As a pastor, I often hear other believers speak of being so frustrated in their walk with the Lord. You hear them use words like slow going, lack of spiritual progress and desire, a sense of futility, and weariness in their journey, and overall discouragement with themselves and the path. But God reveals in Hebrews 12 that much of this may be a result of weights and sin that hold us back from what God has promised and expects of us, and hinders our progress in all things concerning our faith.
For the Gospel to be good news, it has to invade bad places. Listen as we explore in Mark 1 how God has purposed out of our brokenness a new identity found in Him.
Having ministered on "a theology of unanswered prayers", we will today look at the foundations and glory of answered prayers If unanswered prayers refine us, then it can be said of answered prayers that they have the power to define us. Either way, God receives glory and delights in the prayers of the upright.
Every believer will inevitably experience the confusion, frustration, disillusionment, and pain of unanswered prayer. So it is imperative that we have a foundation of what prayer is, what it is not, and how God uses it to change us.
From the beginning of our life, to the day we close our eyes, God declares himself to be and is faithful to the end.
Scripture plainly teaches us that we are living in the terminal generation; the last one before the return of Jesus Christ for his church, then with his church to rescue and then bring to spiritual life the nation of Israel. This series examines the things Christ mentioned as signs for the last days, and examines how they are converging in an unmistakable way today.
Scripture plainly teaches us that we are living in the terminal generation; the last one before the return of Jesus Christ for his church, then with his church to rescue and then bring to spiritual life the nation of Israel. This series examines the things Christ mentioned as signs for the last days, and examines how they are converging in an unmistakable way today.
Scripture plainly teaches us that we are living in the terminal generation; the last one before the return of Jesus Christ for his church, then with his church to rescue and then bring to spiritual life the nation of Israel. This series examines the things Christ mentioned as signs for the last days, and examines how they are converging in an unmistakable way today.
Scripture plainly teaches us that we are living in the terminal generation; the last one before the return of Jesus Christ for his church, then with his church to rescue and then bring to spiritual life the nation of Israel. This series examines the things Christ mentioned as signs for the last days, and examines how they are converging in an unmistakable way today.
As believers, we have one of three choices: 1) Avoid the light, 2) Turn down or turn off the light, 3) Come to the light in humility and repentance. Yes we are required to do all things in LOVE, but speaking the truth is one of those REQUIREMENTS.
Many believers today, through ignorance or cowardice do not know or are unwilling to walk out their faith in and among the world. Yet this is not only God's expectation, but his commandment to us as his children.
Many believers today, through ignorance or cowardice do not know or are unwilling to walk out their faith in and among the world. Yet this is not only God's expectation, but his commandment to us as his children.
The responsibility and reward of the father is a reality that no man can escape. He cannot lead where he has not been and he cannot give what he does not have. Our primary responsibility is to reveal Christ to our family.
Transition in the life of the believer is God's gift of a pause...Giving us time to prepare for the change ahead and the courage to see it through.
Nothing is constant in this life experientially more than change; and it is the believers willingness and capacity to navigate change which determines the quality of life one experiences and the testimony one leaves behind.
This series proclaims the true gospel of Jesus Christ while at the same time examining the many false gospels that plague the world and deceive many.
This series proclaims the true gospel of Jesus Christ while at the same time examining the many false gospels that plague the world and deceive many.
This series proclaims the true gospel of Jesus Christ while at the same time examining the many false gospels that plague the world and deceive many.
In the life of the believer, there are many questions, sorrows, seasons of confusion, loss, opposition, etc. But in the resurrection, all will be made clear and we shall be made whole.
This series proclaims the true gospel of Jesus Christ while at the same time examining the many false gospels that plague the world and deceive many.
This series proclaims the true gospel of Jesus Christ while at the same time examining the many false gospels that plague the world and deceive many.
This is the story of a man, a criminal, a sinner, who with no hope, no help, and nothing to offer reaches out to God with nothing but a history of sin and finds grace enough to forgive and impart eternal life.
In this message, we compare these porches to false belief systems, false gospels, false christs, and false faiths that people gather under, find shade from the heat, community among those of similar experiences, experiencing the comfort and power of agreement only to later realize that this man made porch is nothing more than a waiting room for death and then eternal judgment.
There is a story in the bible of a pool that brought healing, but only when an angel of God stirred it. It brought healing, but only to the first one to enter after the water was troubled. It brought healing but was limited to one. But when the redemptive work of Christ was completed there was a pool permanently stirred, a veil rent, a gate opened, and a grace offered to all men, for all their maladies...the scandal of grace.
We need a word from the Lord; not just the word, but a word. A word of direction, a word of hope, a word of witness. A timely hope, a hope that will change us from the inside out and strengthen us for what is to come.
This day in the history of scripture was the unveiling of the Christ and the revelation of God's intentions, desires, and promises of what God's people could expect of him in the earth. And that day was no different than this day.
The question is not is the Lord returning to earth; the question is is he returning for you and are you ready for his appearing.
What will it profit a man if he gain the whole world in exhange for his own soul? Nothing, absolutely nothing.
Every believer knows what it is to go through night seasons, dark nights of the soul. Different from storms that cause fear, dark seasons usher end great despondency causing those who are in them to wonder if the sun will ever shine again. Bug God has a word in this message that can push back the clouds of despondency and fill our souls with joy and glory in the presence of His people.
Every believer has his share of storms in life, varied by number, fierceness, and duration. But how they come through and what the come out with are equally as different. Shipwreck and survival are not the only outcomes, you can navigate them with wisdom and confidence.
Every believer has the opportunity to be a vessel of honor or dishonor unto God in the earth and in heaven; the choice is up to them. Others cannot do it for you, and God will not do it for you. Reward for those of honor, shame and regret for those of dishonor.
It is not only what happens to us, but the perspective we have in our present day and our hope of Christ tomorrow which gives us the power and capacity to live fully and faithfully.
It's one thing to say I believe in Jesus, it is quite another to know who Christ is as savior and Lord; and to have a firm, reliant, exclusive trust in his redemptive work for our sins.
We know the Hebrew name "Immanuel" literall means God with us. But what are the implications of God with us? What are the blessings, the responsibilities, and the glory of such a statement, such a promise, such a challenge?
As believers, it is critical for us not only to know the truth, but receive the truth, submit to it, share it, and love it. Jesus Christ and his word is truth. Nothing more, nothing less.
As believers, it is critical for us not only to know the truth, but receive the truth, submit to it, share it, and love it. Jesus Christ and his word is truth. Nothing more, nothing less.
As believers, it is critical for us not only to know the truth, but receive the truth, submit to it, share it, and love it. Jesus Christ and his word is truth. Nothing more, nothing less.
Very few if anything in the life of the believer is more important than knowing the truth, loving the truth, and living the truth. This series examines the cost, the benefit, the opposition, and the glory that comes with living in truth.
Why is it that some believers have the capacity to stick with things till the end and others fade along the way. The answer may surprise you. It has more to do with revelation than it does with inspiration and more of a matter of choice and priorities than how you are hardwired. Tenacity is often the difference between where we are today and where God wants us to be at tomorrow.
Why is it that some believers have the capacity to stick with things till the end and others fade along the way. The answer may surprise you. It has more to do with revelation than it does with inspiration and more of a matter of choice and priorities than how you are hardwired. Tenacity is often the difference between where we are today and where God wants us to be at tomorrow.
Why is it that some believers have the capacity to stick with things till the end and others fade along the way. The answer may surprise you. It has more to do with revelation than it does with inspiration and more of a matter of choice and priorities than how you are hardwired. Tenacity is often the difference between where we are today and where God wants us to be at tomorrow.
It is through faith and patience that we inherit the promises, and requires divine strength to carry these promises and bring them full term.
All who have gone before you know what it is like to lose sight of the finish line and give way to voices inside and out that tell you that you will not make it, God has forgotten or forsaken you, and that you simply do not have what it takes to finish. But what you have is not an "it" but a "HIM" who is the Lord of all, and He is present, active, and working and has made available to you in Christ "SUFFICIENT STRENGTH."
This life takes strength. Strength to live, continue, go forward, endure, and finish. Your source of strength determines how you navigate life and how you finish. Those whose strength is the Lord's shall not ever be ashamed.
Every believer has at times found their edge being dulled or lost altogether. The issue of how and where is critical. Humility of heart, repentance, and God's power to restore is sufficient to restore to us our purpose and effectiveness in our service to him.
The world is in great upheaval; as anxiety, anger, confusion, and frustration takes center stage. The scriptures teach us plainly where we are on God's timetable, how accurate his description of what it would look like and the promise of how it will all end.
Our faith in the person of Jesus Christ does not exempt us from the strains, loss, and pressures of this life; but instead gives us the capacity and strength to navigate the perplexities that we all face.
We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account for the deeds done in our body. What we do for God or left undone, will determine how we will be recognized in eternity.
We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account for the deeds done in our body. What we do for God or left undone, will determine how we will be recognized in eternity.
We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account for the deeds done in our body. What we do for God or left undone, will determine how we will be recognized in eternity.
There is much confusion in the body of Christ as to what is actually going on in the wold, what is behind it, where it is on the schedule of God and how it will play out. Join us as we examine the scriptures and recognize the things that have happened as promised, are happening today as promised, and shall happen in the future EXACTLY as promised.
Salvation is a gift from God, not available by the works of man. It is a work of God, born of the will of God, made possible by the power of God. God provides the truth, we provide the humility and response.
The challenge for believers today is not to try and figure out how to avoid trouble, storms, and trials...but to look for the blessedness in them.
One of the saddest things to behold in the body of Christ is those who overvalue temporal things and undervalue eternal things. This message shows us the necessity and the reward of living and making all of our choices in the light of eternity.
It is not uncommon for Christians to struggle with determining if something or someone is the will of God for their life. This message explores the fact that the will of God is not the search for something, but someone.
As believers we are encouraged to fight the good fight of faith. Where there is no struggle, there is no life, no separation, no consecration. The scripture is clear, we must through much tribulation enter the kingdom of God.
As believers we are encouraged to fight the good fight of faith. Where there is no struggle, there is no life, no separation, no consecration. The scripture is clear, we must through much tribulation enter the kingdom of God.
As believers we are encouraged to fight the good fight of faith. Where there is no struggle, there is no life, no separation, no consecration. The scripture is clear, we must through much tribulation enter the kingdom of God.
Prayer is often birthed in the billows of pain. And in these seasons we must never forget that God is present, God is active, God is faithful, and he will soon give you an answer for your enemies.
This message examines the sorrows of women in the bible and the savior who meets them at their place of need.
The person who God uses pays a high price to be that person, but the rewards are eternal.
The story of the prodigal son is a wonderful type of how people walk away from God, and when they reach the end of themselves come back and find him still waiting, still loving, still their Father.
We have one God, one source, and one outcome; to finish. In this journey of mountains and valleys, successes and failures, gain and loss; one thing is certain. The Lord is the strength of my life, and by his grace and sustaining power I will finish.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
The Resurrection of Christ. This, along with his crucifixion is the foundation of all that we believe, and all that pertains to our salvation and life in eternity.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
This series deals with biblical signs, prophecies, and evidences that we are living in the last ays and that the return of the Lord is imminent.
As believers, there are available weapons for us to navigate our lives with power, victory, and perseverance.
The last of David's psalms of praise finds him standing on top of all that has come before him; reminding the people of God's greatness, faithfulness, and nearness.
As we speedily approach the return of the Lord Jesus Christ for his church, much of christianity seems to be departing from the true faith and becoming inactive and/or reserved when it comes to the deposits God has made in their lives and the ministry he has called them to. When it comes to our calling, gifts, and service; others cannot stir it and God will not. He leaves that to us.
This story reveals to us the measure and the depths God will go with us to break the pattern of our old life and bring us into that which he has predestined us to be.
We live in a day and age in the West where you can describe the christian faith in many ways, but "a battle" is not one of them. We speak of purpose, our best life, new dimensions, and new seasons...but the spiritual battle in the heavenlies rages on. The kingdom of heaven still suffers violence, and the violent still take it by force.
When Jesus stood in the temple declaring that the words of Isaiah were being fulfilled that very moment; it has not ceased to be the case today. He has come to seek and to save that which is lost.
In Luke Chapter 10 we find the story of Jesus at the home of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, where Martha is busy in the kitchen working FOR the Lord and Mary is at his feet being WITH the Lord. Both are essential, but not equal. This is not where the story ends but where it begins.
Everyone of us experiences doubts, but it is what we do with those doubts that determines the next phase, stage of our Christian experience.
The life and book of Daniel have many present and prophetic truths to guide the life of the believer; but our focus tomorrow will be on the personal, habitual life of cultivated prayer and how that impacts us and those around us.
This message explains what a life without Christ looks like today, and the signs along the way that show us that this godless path leads to destruction.
Everyone has regrets; they are real, they are powerful, and they can be devastating. It is not the eradication of regrets, but the navigation of them that determines whether we live looking down or looking up.
Every one of us experiences discouragement, but it is how we see it and react to it that determines the quality and effectiveness of our life. Discouragement is one tool God uses to wean us off of this world and prepare us for the one to come.
This is a message of hope to the hopeless, strength for the weak, healing for the sick, and water for the weary.
Chastisement is something that Christians rarely acknowledge and more rarely accept. But God promises to chastise us because we are his, because we are loved, and because left to our will and choices we would live after the flesh and pay the high price of doing so.
We are all trees planted of the Lord. The life of the tree comes from God, but where we choose for our roots to go down is our choice. We will never have a spiritual life greater above ground, than we have below the surface.
God demands us to forgive others, even connecting our own forgiveness to it. Nothing brings to light more clearly who we are than how we treat those who have sinned against us. We are either people of grace or people of the law.
Expectancy born of the spirit and exercised by the will of man is often the difference between profession and possession in the life of the believer. Pure expectancy has all the necessary ingredients of divine miraculous intervention already inside of it.
The greatest need in the life of the believer is to go deeper. Deeper into God and the things of God. Everyone that experiences heights has not necessarily gone deeper, but everyone that goes deeper will ascend the heights and have the character to milk them for all their value.
The idea of hell is rejected and mocked by those who believe not God, but others as Noah, moved by fear, prepare themselves an ark to survive the judgment to come That ark is Christ.
There is a world of difference between a good father and a godly one; and there is famine of Godly men in these last days. This message is a hands-on look at what Godly men will not allow in their life and home.
The story of the thief on the cross is pregnant with theological implications, not the least of which that grace has way more to do with who God is than who you are. And that grace is the gift of God...to the least of us.
All of us are familiar with the pressures of life and the difficulty and damage that they can bring with them. This message deals with how we as believers can scripturally navigate and glorify God while under them.
Wanting every mother and woman to know that you are worth more than you know. Happy Mother's Day!
This salvation sermon examines how grace and truth came by Jesus Christ and explains how Christ alone is the door to forgiveness and life.
Much is said and taught concerning worship but much of it is peripheral and off the mark. Worship of God through Jesus Christ is simply the recognition, appreciation, and expression of the worth of God to you as an individual.
The Gospel is simple, the gospel is powerful, but is also exclusive. He that hath the son hath life, and he that hath not the son hath not life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.
There are common and prevalent misconceptions concerning the idea of revival, both personal and corporate. This message deals with the simplicity found in nearness and submission to the Lord Jesus Christ.
One day very soon we are going to stand before the Lord. The belief in this meeting, and the preparation for it are one of the clearest paths to personal revival.
Salvation is the original and most powerful experience of personal revival a person may have. Without this initial quickening, every religious experience and belief is of no value and in the end comes to nothing.
For many people and I know for the church at large, our greatest need is one of revival. For God to forgive, restore, strengthen, and bring back to life all that is missing in a life of knowing and loving him.
The Bible declares plainly and firmly that we are Sons of God now. This message explores the beauty, power, responsibility, and hope that this title conveys to all who are His.
The Bible declares plainly and firmly that we are Sons of God now. This message explores the beauty, power, responsibility, and hope that this title conveys to all who are His.
The Bible declares plainly and firmly that we are Sons of God now. This message explores the beauty, power, responsibility, and hope that this title conveys to all who are His.
There is no greater revelation to the believer than who we are as sons of God, and whose we are as sons. This message brings clarity to our privilege, our position, our responsibility, and our power as children of the most high God.
The bible speaks of specific believers who honor him with their lips but their heart is far from them. This distance is unmistakable and eventually leads to emptiness, regret, shame, and loss of years. But whoever comes to God, he will in no way turn them back.
This divine conflict between the people of God and the hosts of Hell is real. It is personal and it is painful; but through God's help we can persevere. The question is not how will it end, but how will we as believers finish.
This message deals with the insurmountable odds, unspeakable loss and the ability to still believe. Still look to God, obey God, and expect God to deliver once again.
As believers we have heard the phrase "the will of God" so often that it may not carry the importance and preeminence that it should. The will of God is the primary thing, the pre-ordained thing, the qualifying thing that makes anything possible to the believer.
Mercy is either the perfect antidote or the perfect poison The antidote for those who give it freely to others as they have received it from God and poison to those who keep it unto themselves.
The story of the angels appearing to the shepherds is one that all of history hinges upon and that all believers have built their life upon. Unto us is born a Savior, His name is Christ the Lord.
As we walk by faith, we should be able to see further, live better, experience victory, and always trust.
God tests our faith not to punish us, but to prove us. There is sufficient grace for every test.
Ingratitude is the leprosy of our age. It is rampant in both the world and the church, and if left unrepented of, can destroy our very lives.
One of the primary distinguishable traits of true believers is their choice and lifestyle as strangers and pilgrims here on the earth. In this world but not of it, and what that means to us as believers.
Sarah had a long and winding road, which eventually led her to faith. Her faith had little to do with looking at herself, her husband, or her circumstances, but to God who she judged to be faithful.
Abraham, being the father of all who come to faith is a beautiful type of how our life in God comes into being, what is expected of us, what it should look like, and the reward that follows.
Our approach to God must be in faith, be personally, and find ourself in agreement with who He is and what He has said.
Most teaching on faith today deals primarily with man getting something out of God, but the primary teaching in the Bible revolves around God getting something out of man. This series will explore biblical faith from the ground up assuring us that we please the Lord and live in expectation of divine intervention.
Most teaching on faith today deals primarily with man getting something out of God, but the primary teaching in the Bible revolves around God getting something out of man. This series will explore biblical faith from the ground up assuring us that we please the Lord and live in expectation of divine intervention.
Most teaching on faith today deals primarily with man getting something out of God, but the primary teaching in the Bible revolves around God getting something out of man. This series will explore biblical faith from the ground up assuring us that we please the Lord and live in expectation of divine intervention.
Most teaching on faith today deals primarily with man getting something out of God, but the primary teaching in the Bible revolves around God getting something out of man. This series will explore biblical faith from the ground up assuring us that we please the Lord and live in expectation of divine intervention.
The idea of shipwreck in the natural is terrifying. The idea of shipwreck spiritually is eternally terrifying. What does the Bible mean when it speaks of "shipwrecked faith"?
All of us must stand before the Bema Seat of Christ to give an account for the deeds done in our body. The life you live today is the truest indicator of what heaven will look like for you tomorrow.
This message deals with the power of our response to Christ. How we respond to obstacles, correction, seeming delay or denial. And how genuine worship in humility catches the eye of God, reaches the heart of God, and often releases the power of God.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
Never has a more poetic, practical, or powerful prose ever been written. David looking over the shoulder of his life gives us his prescription for a life that overcomes, lives at peace, and in expectation of good.
There are times where doing the right thing still costs us something but God wants to grant us a long term view.
The life that God has for us is more than likely greater than the life we are living today. Knowing who we are in Christ, and what is ours in Christ is the basis of our life of faith.
What are you saying when you say the Name of Jesus? We say it daily. We pray it over our food. We say it at the end of a prayer. We sing it in our songs. But do we really understand what we are saying? Do we really belive?
Each of us will face numerous and various trials, but there is one that stands out above all else; The all or nothing fire. There are only three options: avoid it, die in it, or come out of it. This message shows us the nearness, the power, and the reward that comes to those who remain faithful.
The tide of our nation changed spiritually several years ago, but now it is rising at a fever pitch. We are changing from a post-christian era to an anti-christian era. God predicted and planned this for us as believers to draw a line of separation between those who profess Christ and those who possess Christ.
The tide of our nation changed spiritually several years ago, but now it is rising at a fever pitch. We are changing from a post-christian era to an anti-christian era. God predicted and planned this for us as believers to draw a line of separation between those who profess Christ and those who possess Christ.
The story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not only an historical fact, but it is an answer to many if not all of life's primary questions. This message focuses upon God's intentions, power, and grace shown towards us through the power displayed in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Satan as the deceiver is an active agent and force on the earth today; especially targeting those who belong to the family of God. This message shows us how to be prepared for all the WILES of the devil.
The bible tells us that we are being changed from glory to glory. The idea of change for most is wonderful news, but the pathway to that change can be intimidating, crippling, even destructive. This message gives us the tools necessary to recognize, welcome, and work out the transitions from one place in God to the other.
We all deal with the disappointment of losing something, but God offers to heal and restore.
The word of God teaches us to judge all things, and to pay careful attention to ourselves. Self examination in the light of the scriptures and the Holy Spirit will confirm or convict of us our current position; in or outside of Christ.
In these last hours it is critical that we walk in spiritual discernment and that we have the courage and character to act upon what we know by the spirit. Unheeded discernment always leads to unnecessary calamity.
Each of us as believers have had those times where Christ had tarried at a place as we continued forward, only for us to realize later that we had left him. Not intentionally, but separated none the less. Nothing is scarier to the believer than losing Christ.
God gives great dreams in our lives, but we must deal with disappointments to secure them.
Like a hand pointing back in time we are to remember and rehearse God's faithful in our lives up to this point. This remembrance gives us faith for anything that could come our way in the future.
The goal of christianity is not to be happy, but happiness should at least be a byproduct. This message deals with the process by which contentment comes.
The goal of christianity is not to be happy, but happiness should at least be a byproduct. Living happy has more to do with what you subtract than what you add.
In the christmas story, the angel makes an unexpected yet glorious pronouncement to the shepherds. "You will find Him!" God has made it so easy to know His son and to find forgiveness and new life through him.
One of the most simplest, yet troubling things for believers is how to recognize God's will for our lives. This series will tackle the nuts and bolts of how to live and thrive in that confidence.
One of the most simplest, yet troubling things for believers is how to recognize God's will for our lives. This series will tackle the nuts and bolts of how to live and thrive in that confidence.
One of the most simplest, yet troubling things for believers is how to recognize God's will for our lives. This series will tackle the nuts and bolts of how to live and thrive in that confidence.
One of the most simplest, yet troubling things for believers is how to recognize God's will for our lives. This series will tackle the nuts and bolts of how to live and thrive in that confidence.
Every life is given opportunities for obedience, transformation, and blessing. But we must first have ears to hear and a willing heart to enter into that which others let pass them by.
Thankfulness is not a fruit of the spirit, but a fruit of the will. It is a matter of perception, the person, and maturity. It is also that which quickens our very soul.
John 10:10 states that the enemy of our souls comes to destroy, but Jesus came to bring life. Yet we often times believe the lies of the enemy and it darkens how we should view ourselves in light of God's word. What's the solution? Who do you think you are?
Know this...If finishing was easy, more people would finish. If finishing is hard, what about finishing well? In the end, finishing is a choice, nothing more, nothing less. A decision that simplifies it down to one sentiment; as long as I have breath, I will go forward.
This message deals with the simplicity of the Gospel, One provision, one path, freedom of choice.
In the same way we prepare for physical and material upheaval, so is it important to prepare today for the inevitable spiritual upheaval that will and is taking place all over the world. Even more increasing as the day of the Lord approaches.
This message deals with the ministers and the followers of error. The only way Satan could curse the people of God was through their own sinfulness and the preaching that encouraged it.
With all of the uncertainty in these last days, God wants us to know, understand, and live in the awareness that He has always had a plan. And that His plan cannot, nor will not fail.
Is it possible to do most everything right, but fail at the most important thing? Is it possible to do them right, with the wrong motive? Is it possible that God's light in our life can go out over one thing? This message makes sure that we are not one of those who "loses at what matters most."
This series deals with the spiritual, geographical, national, and economic symptoms and implications of our present world. As believers, we are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves in this last hour.
This series deals with the spiritual, geographical, national, and economic symptoms and implications of our present world. As believers, we are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves in this last hour.
This series deals with the spiritual, geographical, national, and economic symptoms and implications of our present world. As believers, we are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves in this last hour.
This series deals with the spiritual, geographical, national, and economic symptoms and implications of our present world. As believers, we are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves in this last hour.
Are we desperate for God to invade our lives? Are we hungry for a move of His Holy Spirit?
This series deals with the spiritual, geographical, national, and economic symptoms and implications of our present world. As believers, we are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves in this last hour.
No person is beyond his reach, no sins are beyond his grace, no death is beyond his life. This is a salvation message for those who have gone too far.
Every father is a man, but not every man is a father. The Bible tells us that a father is the glory of his children. The principle thing, the ornament, their crown. This message addresses the responsibility and glory of this high calling.
Everyone in this life is a slave to something. Whoever or whatever exercises control is the ultimate authority and has the final say. But God demands, expects, and blesses those who have surrendered willingly to his Lordship in their life.
Lines are being drawn. Unmistakable lines, alienating lines, permanent lines. Between this world and the next, the spirit of this world and the spirit of God, Jesus Christ the Lord and anything that stands in opposition to him. It is completely up to us if we are "to be found in him", UNASHAMED!
When God opens a door, it is unmistakable. This open door reveals as much about us as it does about God. If we are spiritually dull, it is unrecognized. If we are immature, it is unappreciated. If we are fearful, it is avoided. If we are carnal, it is neglected. If we are presumptuous, we feel it will stay open till we are ready. But to the spiritual, we know that every open door has an intention, a season, and a glory on the other side.
There is a great difference between natural optimism and divine optimism. This message deals with the evidence, power, and expectation of those who believe that God has the final say in every situation.
"Invitation" = A call, summons, offer, permission. A written or verbal request inviting someone to go somewhere or to do something. A situation or action that tempts someone to do something or makes a particular outcome likely. An invitation from God is a powerful thing; with every invitation from him comes the right, privilege, and power to fulfill what is being offered to you.
"Invitation" = A call, summons, offer, permission. A written or verbal request inviting someone to go somewhere or to do something. A situation or action that tempts someone to do something or makes a particular outcome likely. An invitation from God is a powerful thing; with every invitation from him comes the right, privilege, and power to fulfill what is being offered to you.
"Invitation" = A call, summons, offer, permission. A written or verbal request inviting someone to go somewhere or to do something. A situation or action that tempts someone to do something or makes a particular outcome likely. An invitation from God is a powerful thing; with every invitation from him comes the right, privilege, and power to fulfill what is being offered to you.
The historical story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most documented events in the history of the world being shared by the eyewitnesses who saw him and the many infallible proofs being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). The spiritual story of the resurrection is the foundation by which all of our preaching and belief hinges upon. The experiential story is still being written by those who having not seen, believe.
When Jesus declared from the cross "It is finished", it was an absolute term. His work was complete, accomplished, discharged, paid, performed, and fully executed! This revelation changes everything in how we live, how we rest, and the expectation of this life and the one to come.
As Jesus was teaching to a large crowd, 4 men came carrying a man who was paralyzed on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he spoke grace and healing to the man. People left saying that they had seen things that were contrary to what was expected. A crowd got instruction, one man got saved and healed, and 4 were active participants in the manifest glory of God.
It is true that God loves us like we are, but like we are should include Humility, Reverence, Cleanliness, Vulnerability, and Expectation.
As believers, we should be way more concerned with God's favor than we are his blessings; for everyone that receives blessings may not have his favor, but everyone that has his favor receives all blessings. It is a matter of our position, diligence, and humility.
As Christians, it is easy to struggle in discerning what is the will of God. How will we know it, and what is our responsibility in finding it. Ruth teaches us that it is not something you find, it is something that finds you.
In every life, until you die, there is a next chapter. To make it to the next chapter in the natural, all you have to do is survive. To make it to the next chapter in the spiritual, there is much required of you. But most importantly to believe that it exists, and set your face like flint to get there.
This message deals with the common and destructive nature of bitterness. Naomi's loss was so great and her pain so intense that she let bitterness creep in and eventually it took over. But one choice changed it al for her, she turned toward the revealed will of God. That direction eventually landed her in the place where God could and would heal her.
This message deals with the journey back home to God. Naomi has lost much, but she knows with God there is still mercy. Wounded, confused, and bitter, she turns away from Moab never realizing all that God has in store for her.
This message is the first in a comprehensive series on the book of Ruth and the primary characters displayed. There are so many beautiful types and life lessons found here. This first message explains why it is imperative that we remain in the will of God, regardless of how hungry we might be to leave.
As we enter the new year, these are things that I believe await us. Things we can plan on, prepare for, endure, and anticipate. In the end, we know that Christ will have his way on the earth and in our lives, so instead of fear there is a deep confidence and abiding home on whatever is to come.
Miracles are more about who God is than they are what is done. God is all powerful, and it is impossible to walk with him and not witness his power in and for us. This message deals with the subject of what you can expect from God when a miracle is on the way.
The bible plainly declares that we did not choose God, it was he who chose us. In the account of the angel appearing to Mary, it is the secret to living out God's plan for our life.
With the rise of social media, many people use it as a platform to discourage others from celebrating the birth of Christ. This message addresses their uninvited and incomplete ideas and reveals the why of those who choose to celebrate His birth.
As christians, we are not only expected to be thankful unto God, but abound in thanksgiving. In all things give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
The scripture draws a parallel between our life and that of a tree, with many pertinent and remarkable applications that if we ignore, we do so to our own peril.
Many people today, including Christians, have settled into managing something. Managing their pain, their problems, their situation, their dilemma. But Jesus asked this lame man a question that cuts through the way it has been and opens the door to the way life could be. Do you want to be made whole? This message looks at the circumstances that create the problem and the way that God provides the solution.
As Christians, the idea of hearing God's voice, knowing for sure it is him, and following his leading can be something mystical or daunting. But God is clear in the fact that the surrender is up to us, the leading is up to him. And the responsibility of getting us to our destination is on his shoulders.
While the message of the cross may be offensive at times, there is a power available to us through it.
In Mark 5, a man named Jairus's little girl was dying, so he went in search of Jesus to bring him home to heal her. Many of us have something at home that is sick. Some of us have something at home that is dying. A few of us have something at home that is dead. This message deals with the importance, the necessity, and the power that results when a believer brings "The Resurrection and the Life" to their home.
Before the great and terrible day of the Lord the scripture is clear that there will first be a great falling away and then the son of perdition (Anti-Christ) will be revealed. We are seeing the firstfruits of it today. This message looks at what falling away is, how it happens, and how we can make sure that we are never a part of it.
When Jesus told his disciples how he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things and be crucified, Simon Peter rebuked him, "Let it never be so Lord!" To which Jesus replied, get behind me satan, you savourest not the things of God, but only the things of man. This still happens today, in our pulpits and among others who name the name of Christ. And the satanic message is still the same, Jesus did not have to die, and neither do we. But Christ answered immediately, clearly, and definitively: If any man would come after me, he must first deny himself, take up his cross, and follow him. Making sure tomorrow that none of us are followers of "Satan's gospel."
In the beginning of life on earth, there was man, there was satan, there was sin, and there was God. And what followed after man's sin is still the most amazing thing ever recorded, an opportunity to be forgiven. But we cannot cover our shame, our covering must come from God.
Disappointment is a part and parcel of every believer's life. It is a reality, but not a residence. God plants trees of beauty out of the soil of our disappointments.
This story is a strong reminder that we cannot approach God any kind of way. There must be a reverence in our heart, and our approach must be one of spirit and truth. Many good people shipwreck in their faith because they trust their soul to another. God's word never changes.
There comes a time where we must start to take action on the promise God has given us, but we find courage to act by looking back on his faithfulness.
Before we can fight for our promise, we are invited to first know the God of the promise.
Joshua had the courage to choose God, but he found that courage by immersing himself in the Word of God.
God must be the cornerstone of your life. From the cornerstone is how each building block of your life will be laid.
This message deals with the issue of God bringing you out of any relationship, any place, or any practice that keeps you out of God's will against your will.
This message deals with the condition of the fallen man, his symptoms, and his opportunity. Some believe and others do not.
When God rewrites your story, he puts his pen to the paper of your life right where you are, and with one stroke at a time, changes the very testimony that comes out of other's mouths concerning you.
(Luke 1:45) "And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord." Not maybe, not might, not hope so, but "THERE SHALL BE!" This message is for the trusting heart, the expectant heart, the weary heart, and the burdened heart. Blessed are you that believe, for there shall be... Mark it down, it will happen; for the glory of the Lord!
This declaration is foundational as well as revelatory in the life of the Christian. Although our strength does come from the Lord, it is deeper than that, more intimate than that. He (his person, his presence) himself IS our strength. Knowing He is in us, with us, and for us, who or what could ever stand in our way. That is why we are conquerors through him that loved us.
As we draw our attention to Mount Calvary where our savior died, we notice that he did not suffer or die alone. On each side of him were thieves who were minutes away from eternity, one to be spent with God and the other in judgement. As we watch it unfold, we realize that their story is our story, and this is how Jesus saves people.
Our adversary (the devil) is real. He is active, strategic, and ruthless. But we as believers have all power through the spirit of Christ. God's word teaches us on where to stand, how to stand, and how to overcome all of his tactics and strategies he uses against us. Victory is ours if we surrender fully and obey completely.
When you hear the phrase "spiritual power" most of us think of giftings, boldness, supernatural manifestations, etc. And although that is true, that is not the entire scope of what spiritual power is. Mary Magdalene is one whose power was not found in what she did for God, but in what God did in her. Her service and faithfulness flowed from the awareness of God's grace in her life and her sense of duty to him.
God will bring us through times where he asks us to do things that may be uncomfortable, but it's always worth it.
God's cure for sin comes from him. It is simple, undeserved, filled with grace, and accessible. But only to the one who will humble himself and come God'sway. This cure is powerful, instantaneous, and sufficient. His blood covers all our sin.
The question is not did Jesus live, but does he live today. Not did he walk the earth 2000 years ago, but does he walk mine today. The idea of this message is that Christ is STILL the same yesterday, today, and forever.
God's word is very clear that we are to forgive others. That we are to forgive them repeatedly. We are to forgive them from our heart. We are to forgive them completely. And if we choose not to, then there is nothing for us to look forward to except our trespasses being brought up against us till we pay the full amount.
Very few things are more powerful than our words. We either give life by them or produce death; there is no in between. This message shows us how to uproot and reject those things said to us, about us and left unsaid...and find healing in the word of God.
A salvation message covering the two primary sides of Jesus Christ, the Sacrifice and the Judge.
Abraham was called the friend of God, but it takes more than affection and familiarity to be God's friend. Abraham's life was a series of God asking things of him and God doing things for him. His surrender to these things made him God's friend.
This message deals with our view of God as the one who listens to prayer and the importance of staying before him. We are not heard for our much speaking, but our persistence in prayer is the evidence of our faith.
God makes us righteous but commands us to be holy. Separate, set apart, altogether his. This sermon looks at the issue of "sin", "sins", and "our sins."
The bible declares that it was by faith that Sarah received strength to bear seed. Strength to do what was heretofore impossible. Strength to do something whose day had come and gone. Strength to do that which she had long before given up on. Strength to bring life out of death and fill her home with laughter.
All of us at different times and in different ways have heard God's voice for specific areas of our life, through his word and by his Holy Spirit. Sometimes in the form of what he wants us to do, other times it is what he commands that we stop doing. But like Jonah, we choose to disobey and flee from is presence. That's the problem. When we directly disobey him, we create distance between us. Not on his end (relationship), but on our end (fellowship). The horrible storm that came upon Jonah also visits us in many different forms and is sent by God to take us back to his intentions and purposes for our lives. The bible declares that God spoke to Jonah "a second time" and Jonah was more than willing to do what God told him to do.
As christians we know that God's word declares that God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all we can ask or think but only according to the power working in us. This message deals with this resident power and it's expected expression in our lives.
Discontentment is the cancer of our generation. It erodes our hapiness, and innoculates us from the joys of our today. God's word is clear that Godliness with contentment is great gain and that according to the Apostle Paul there is a secret to learning to be content in all things. This message shows us how to attain that most blessed state.
Most of the anxiety we experience in our Christian lives is the result of calculating the odds of our present situation. The financial odds, the relational odds, the physical odds. This message addresses the nature and power of God to control all things at the same time for our good.
At the close of 2013 many people have lost hope. Their problem is not that they see things incorrectly, but that they feel they will always stay as they are. Darkness will remain dark, pain will remain painful, those in chains cannot ever see their freedom and those who are lonely can only see themselves alone. Our tomorrow will still of course have its challenges, difficulties, sorrows, and trials, BUT IT WILL BE A NEW DAY! With every night comes the promise of morning.
The key to spiritual renewal is just as much about what you leave behind as it is in where you are going. This message deals with 7 things you really must leave in last year to fulfill God's intentions for you in 2014.
This message deals with the question of why Jesus came to earth, and why we resist and reject him.
When Mary and Joseph heard that there was "no room" for them in the Inn, I am sure they were disappointed, anxious, and maybe even angry. But sometimes God closes doors that we are looking toward to give us experiences we would have never had.
We will be known and rewarded in heaven not by what we acquired, but by what we've given away.
Your feet cannot carry you where your eyes are not looking. Keep your eyes focused on Christ and heaven as your destination; every other distraction leads to the same place... Regret!
In this story we see the heart of worship Humility, Gratitude, Deep Humility, Emotion, and Extravagance; and this was given before Jesus died to take away our sins. If this was given before the cross, then surely this must be the floor for what we offer The Lord today.
God makes his acts glorious, but it is we who are called to make his praise glorious. He doesn't make it glorious by His Spirit, we make it glorious by ours. Our emotions, our will, our gratitude, our words. It all hinges on us.
Praise is expected and commanded by God. It should be the natural expression of those who recognize God, acknowledge his works, and appreciate his goodness. God expects praise from every living thing.
Our heart is deceitfully wicked above all things and who can know it? The only way to know the true condition of our heart is to apply the light of the word of God to it and see how it truly is. This message deals with 4 types of a backslidden heart: the unfaithful wife, the unhealthy patient, the unplowed field, and the uncircumcised heart. The key to life is forgiveness, and the key to forgiveness is repentance.
In this story, Jesus asked the disciples a question that they never answered, and still goes unanswered today. Why are you so fearful, how is it that you have no faith? God uses the storms of our life to root out all fear by the revelation of his person.
Storms come to all our lives; it is what we do in the storms and what comes from them that makes all the difference. When Jesus spoke he mentioned not the storm on the outside but the one on the inside. Why did you doubt? is still the question today.
The story of Simon Peter walking on the water is a beautiful type of how a person comes to be rescued, saved by the Lord Jesus Christ. He is able to save to the uttermost them that call upon his name.
As christians, we all know what fear is and many of us know it too well. It is necessary to have a sense of fear so that we can respect boundaries, but we are to never be controlled by fear as a dictator in our lives. The bible says that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
The Bible declares that one of the things Jesus will be known for and empowered to do is to give beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning. At the grave of Lazarus, he made this statement: "Did I not tell you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?"
Very few people began with more than King Solomon. The Lord loved him and named him as such. He gave him wisdom, wealth, peace, and prestige. Yet in his later years, he turned away from the Lord. This message reminds us that anyone is capable of anything, and that we should walk soberly in this world, keeping our heart clean of any offense.
We all know what it is to live in someone else's shadow. Who they are and what they have done or not done comes into our lives uninvited and if we are not careful, we can get lost there. It is OK to find rest in the shade of someone else, just not our identity. This message shows us how much Solomon was loved of the Lord independent of the greatest man in the history of Israel, King David.
Deep down we all know that personal evangelism is our responsibility, but very few practice it. Some do not because of fear, others do not care, but most feel that they cannot do this effectively because they are not sure how. This message deals with approach and telling of the gospel to others.
What I went to do was teach, preach, and minister...and I did. But what I saw changed my life. It was not the poverty, or the lack that surprised me, but the abundance. The abundance of Joy, Love, and Life that they possessed.
"The harvest is finished, and the summer is gone," the people cry, "yet we are not saved!" This message is given for those who have stiffened their necks at the invitation of God, whose hearts have become hardened through sin and self-centeredness. The window of God's grace is closing, but it is not too late yet. There is a balm in Gilead, there is a physician there.
What many people call the Lord's prayer was really a teaching, not a prayer. His prayer was that the people that make up the church would live as one. Deep, intimate, consistent, joyful communion. To love and be loved, to know and be known, to serve and be served. To experience the power of God flowing in them, through them and for them. That their lives would be so blended (not just an hour on Sunday) that others would look upon the beauty of these relationships and actually believe in Christ.
Jesus told his disciples, "blessed are your eyes, for they see". They see what others can't, they see what others won't, they see what others long to, but didn't. There are things that are freely given us…but we must have the spiritual vision to recognize them, appreciate them, assimilate them, possess them, and maximize them.
It is one thing to have faith, it is quite enough for it to be tested. Faith without an object has nothing to attach itself to; but once it attaches to something not yet seen, not held, not obtained…it will most always be tested. It is through great faith and great patience that we inherit the promises of God; and miracles seem to find those whose faith passes the tests of life.
This strength is divine, available, limitless, without cost, essential, pure, perceptible, and miraculous. The issue for us today is not whether you believe that is true or not, but are you living with an obstructed channel by which the part of God's nature can flow freely to you and through you to others.
The greatest need in the life of every believer is to live in the spirit and to walk in the fullness thereof. This message explores what this life looks like as it manifests itself in our day to day lives.
David lost his throne to his son Absalom who turned Israel against him. David walked up the mount of olives weeping, but worshipped when he got to the top.
The story of Zacchaeus is one of the first examples in the New Testament of God finding one of his own. Perched in a tree of curiosity, and tied there by his own sinfulness; Zacchaeus is content to only catch a glimpse of God. But God has other plans...eternity together.
Most of us feel like we should pray more, and often that our prayers go unanswered. There are no magic formulas for prayer but there are patterns in the scripture which guide us into the way that we should let our petitions be made known unto God.
What do you do when you have lost what is necessary for you to continue the Lord's work in your life? When you have lost your edge, your passion, your purity, your peace, or your power. Just like Elisha instructed, you take your master to the place you lost it and depend upon him to raise it. Once he has, it is your responsibility to reach out and take hold of it.
This is the story of David's fleeing his son Absalom, who is taking over the kingdom and seeking his life. This lament is both a realization, a declaration, a cry, and an expectancy that in the end God would have the last say in his life. He navigated the worst of times just like he did the bets; with his eyes fixed upon God.
In Matthew's account of the Resurrection, he uses the phrase "fear and joy". This describes not only the difference between those who do not believe and we who do, but our experiencing of both of these dynamics in our life with Christ.
The bible explains to us that our lives are comprised of times and seasons. There is a time, a specific time to do and enjoy all things. The question in our lives is are we doing them in the right time and the right way, and are we enjoying them in the way in which they come. The tragedy is not to have died young, but to live a long life and never really live.
For many the word transition has a negative connotation. It stirs up feelings of displacement, frustration, confusion, and unmet expectations. But for the christian it should be a time of great expectation; because transition proclaims the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another one. And we know as God's children the destination of each transition is for our betterment and his glory.
The story of Lazarus deals with the issues of why Jesus is seemingly slow to show up, and how much power is released when he does. Often times we have buried things before their time because our circumstances seemed to dictate as much. But God reminds us today that if we will simply believe, we too can see the glory of God.
Of all the places for Jesus to first display the glory of his power, he chose the simple festive occasion of a wedding. On the surface we see the savior meeting a need, but it was much, much more than that. The last statement will be our subject... "and this was the beginning of miracles that Jesus did, and his disciples believed on Him."
Of all the places for Jesus to first display the glory of his power, he chose the simple festive occasion of a wedding. On the surface we see the savior meeting a need, but it was much, much more than that. The last statement will be our subject... "and this was the beginning of miracles that Jesus did, and his disciples believed on Him."
As christians we need to be careful that we do not let others exchange, dilute, add to or take away from the simplicity of Christ in our lives. It is an exchange, Him for us. This message deals with the subject of how the world and our adversary tries to see if we will be open to "another jesus", "another spirit" and "another gospel."
The important thing is not so much to monitor it in others, but to know what it looks like in you. May God grant us eyes to see it, a heart to hate it, the courage to deal with it, and the character to make no excuses concerning it.
For many the issue of sharing the gospel is simply not talked about. We may at times share our faith, but rarely the gospel itself. Usually that is because people rarely reject our testimony, but can easily reject the gospel. This sermon shows us the essentials of what we need to say when we share the message.
As this new year comes upon us, there are still many blessings yet to receive and many prayers that will find their answer in the days to come. But this will also be a year of great testing for many, and there are several things you need to make sure you carry as you go forward. No fear, just prepared.