RLC Grand Prairie: Recent Episodes
rlcgrandprairie
Join us for a powerful message from Pastor Sid Chatterjee, recorded live at Radiant Life Church in Grand Prairie, TX. In this sermon titled The Discipline of Discipleship, Pastor Sid unpacks the spiritual journey of transformation through the lens of Scripture and the call to follow Christ wholeheartedly.
📖 Main Scriptures: Romans 7:8–25 Philippians 2:12–13 Ephesians 4:21–27
🛤️ Key Lessons on Transformation:
- Transformation begins with embracing the truth found in Christ.
- We must choose to put off the old self and put on the new—this requires sacrifice.
- Renewal comes through immersing our minds in God's Word.
- True change demands growing dependence on the Holy Spirit.
- Transformation flourishes within a community of believers.
This message challenges us to move beyond passive faith and embrace the discipline required to become true disciples of Jesus. Whether you're new to the faith or seeking deeper spiritual growth, this sermon will inspire and equip you for the journey ahead.
🔔 Subscribe for more teachings and updates from Radiant Life Church.
In this powerful sermon, Pastor Sid Chatterjee unpacks the heart of Jesus through the lens of Matthew 20:30–34, where two blind men cry out for mercy—and receive it. What does it mean to have genuine faith? And how does Jesus respond to those society often overlooks?
📖 Main Scripture: Matthew 20:30–34 👤 Speaker: Pastor Sid Chatterjee 🎯 Theme: Compassion, Faith, and the Heart of Christ
Join us as we explore how true faith isn't just belief—it's bold, persistent, and rooted in trust. Discover how Jesus sees and responds to "the least of these," and how we’re called to do the same.
GenuineFaith #PastorSidChatterjee #Matthew2030 #FaithInAction #ChristianSermon #TheLeastOfThese
📍 Recorded live at Radiant Life Church in Grand Prairie, TX on October 12, 2025 📖 Main Text: 1 Peter 1:1–7
Are you searching for something real in the middle of chaos, pain, or uncertainty? In this powerful sermon, Pastor Sid Chatterjee unpacks the radical message of Outrageous Hope — a hope that defies logic, transcends circumstances, and anchors your soul even when life feels broken.
Whether you're skeptical, curious, or just tired of empty promises, this message is for you. Discover how the early followers of Jesus found unshakable joy in the face of suffering — and how you can too.
✨ Keywords: hope in hard times, meaning in suffering, spiritual awakening, emotional healing, peace beyond understanding, faith for skeptics, purpose in pain, overcoming anxiety, finding light in darkness
🔔 Subscribe for more messages that speak to real life and real questions. 💬 Drop a comment if this message spoke to you — we’d love to hear your story.
Hope #Faith #Purpose #OutrageousHope #RadiantLifeChurch #SidChatterjee #1Peter #ChristianityExplained #SpiritualJourney #EmotionalHealing #PeaceInChaos
Recorded live at Radiant Life Church in Grand Prairie, TX 📖 Main Text: Philippians 2:12–13
In this powerful message, Pastor Sid Chatterjee explores what it truly means to be transformed into the image of Christ. Drawing from Philippians 2:12–13, he unpacks the mystery of spiritual growth—how God works in us and through us to shape our character, renew our minds, and align our lives with the heart of Jesus.
Whether you're just beginning your walk with Christ or seeking deeper transformation, this sermon will challenge and encourage you to embrace the process of sanctification with faith and obedience.
Sure! Here's a compelling YouTube video description for Pastor Sid Chatterjee's sermon:
🙏 Rejoice Always, Pray Continually, and Give Thanks
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
🎙️ Speaker: Pastor Sid Chatterjee
In this powerful and uplifting message, Pastor Sid Chatterjee unpacks the timeless wisdom of 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, reminding us of the spiritual rhythm that sustains a life of faith: joy, prayer, and gratitude. No matter the season or circumstance, God calls us to rejoice, remain in communion with Him, and cultivate a heart of thanksgiving.
Whether you're walking through trials or celebrating triumphs, this sermon will encourage you to anchor your soul in God's presence and promises.
✨ Key Themes:
- How to rejoice even in difficult times
- The meaning of continual prayer in everyday life
- Why gratitude is a spiritual weapon
- Living out God's will with consistency and purpose
Recorded live at Radiant Life Church in Grand Prairie, TX Speaker: Pastor Sid Chatterjee Key Scriptures: Philippians 2:12–15 & Numbers 11:10–15
We all have a tendency to complain—but what if we could rise above it?
In this powerful message, Pastor Sid Chatterjee challenges us to win over whining by guarding our hearts against negativity and embracing a spirit of gratitude. Drawing from the Apostle Paul's exhortation to shine like stars in a crooked world and Moses’ raw honesty before God, this sermon invites us to:
- Be grateful—even when it’s hard
- Take accountability for our attitudes
- Look for God's hand in every situation
- Speak life with intentionality
Whether you're stuck in a season of frustration or simply need a reminder to shift your perspective, this message will inspire you to choose joy over judgment and praise over pessimism.
WinningOverWhining #RadiantLifeChurch #PastorSidChatterjee #Philippians2 #Numbers11 #Gratitude #FaithOverFrustration #SpeakLife
In this episode, Pastor Sid Chatterjee dives deep into the compassionate and relentless love of God. Based on Luke 15 and Luke 19:10, this message reveals how God actively seeks, restores, and embraces those who feel lost or distant.
Through the parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son, Jesus illustrates a God who never gives up on His people. And in Luke 19:10, we are reminded of Christ’s mission: to seek and to save the lost.
No matter where you are in your faith journey, this episode will encourage you to trust in God’s unwavering love and His desire to bring you home.
- Be encouraged.
- Be restored.
- Discover the heart of a God who truly cares.
Key Scriptures: Luke 15 | Luke 19:10
Listen now and be blessed.
Subscribe to the podcast for more inspiring messages. Share your thoughts—we’d love to hear how this episode spoke to you.
The Ascension of Jesus is a pivotal moment in Christian faith, marking His return to the Father and His exaltation above all. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Sid Chatterjee unpacks the deeper meaning of the Ascension, drawing from Acts 1:1-11, Philippians 2:6-11, John 6:62, 7:33, and 14:28. Discover how Christ's return to glory fulfills God's divine plan, strengthens our faith, and calls us to live with heavenly purpose. What does the Ascension mean for believers today? How does it transform our understanding of Jesus' authority and our role as His followers? Join us as we dive into these profound scriptures, exploring the victory, promise, and hope found in Christ's Ascension. Be encouraged and uplifted as we reflect on its lasting significance!
Passion Week: The Triumphant Entry In this inspiring message, Pastor Sid Chatterjee from Radiant Life Church in Grand Prairie, TX, takes us on a journey through Matthew 21:1-11 and John 12:9-10 to explore the significance of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
Through this pivotal moment in the Passion Week narrative, we’ll uncover the fulfillment of prophecy, the reactions of the crowds, and the depth of Christ's purpose as He approached the cross. Pastor Sid challenges us to reflect on what it means to truly recognize and welcome Jesus as King in our lives today.
Whether you're revisiting this message or listening for the first time, we pray this teaching encourages your faith and draws you closer to the heart of God.
Successful Praying
Pastor Don Barnes
Daniel 9:17-19
- Listen to God first.
- Daniel 9:1-2 Jeremiah 29:10-12
- Seek God earnestly.
- Daniel 9:3-4, Jeremiah 50:4-5
- Thank God gratefully.
- Daniel 9:4
- Confess to God humbly.
- Daniel 9:5-6
God's response to Daniel:
Gabriel said, "When you first started praying, an answer was given, and I came to tell you because God loves you very much." -Daniel 9:23 (NCV)
When God Gives Me a Second Chance:
- I need to have an attitude of gratitude.
- I need to live my life generously.
- I need to determine to obey what God says.
- I need to not delay my obedience.
- I need to be bold about my witness.
Pastor Sid's sermon about imitating Christ by forgiving, based on Matthew 18:21-35
Seven Reasons to Forgive
- Forgiveness is one of the most Christlike things I can do.
- Not forgiving violates the law of God.
- Whoever offends me has offended God more. If God forgives them then why can't I?
- God has forgiven me from the greatest debt ever.
- Not forgiving isolates me from real fellowship.
- When I don't forgive, I become a target of divine judgement.
- If I don't forgive, I won't be forgiven.
Living Out Our Purpose In 2023
- Be intentional about investing in my relationship with Christ.
- Be intentional about building community.
- Be intentional in my commitment to grow spiritually.
- Be intentional in serving others before I serve myself.
- Be intentional about sharing Christ with those around me.
RICH CHRISTIANITY
(Ephesians) Theme: - 1:3 (NASB) “That you might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Author - Paul (Saul) - Prison Epistle Date - early 60’s AD Audience - The church in Ephesus (Circular letter - no particular occasion/ situation he is responding to) Key Word(s) - “riches” & “In Christ” Structure: Chapters 1,2 & 3 - THEORETICAL: Who we are “in-Christ" Chapters 4,5 & 6 - PRACTICAL: How to live our everyday lives “in- Christ" Overview: Ch. 1 - What God has done FOR us Ch 2. - What Christ has done IN us (2:1-10) Ch. 3 - The Mystery Ch. 4 - Christian Walk Ch. 5 - Being Imitators Ch 6 - Equipped
IN CHRIST WE HAVE FREEDOM * Freedom from guilt (clear conscience) * Freedom to approach God (access to Him) * Freedom- the power to do the right thing * Freedom to be who God created me to be * Freedom from fear
HOW DO I LIVE IN FREEDOM? * Stay sensitive and submissive to the Holy Spirit * Trust the truth of His Word and not my feelings * Use my freedom to serve others
The Significance of the Ascension Acts 1:1-11, Phil. 2:6-11
- The end of his earthly ministry.
- The restoration of his power.
- The exaltation to ultimate authority.
- The sending of the Holy Spirit.
- The transfer of responsibility.
- The beginning of his heavenly ministry.
- The Guarantee of his return.
Reasons for Hope 1 Peter 1:3 1. I experience forgiveness. 2. Death has lost it's grip on me. 3. I live in the power of the Spirit. 4. I am a recipient of his unending love. 5. I have renewed purpose as I follow Christ. 6. I know I will spend eternity in heaven with God.
Pastor Isaac Alvarez from RLC Espanol shares a message based on the story of Elijah and Elisha.
Why am I here? (Eph. 5:15-17) - Who I Am in Christ: * ACCEPTED * VALUED * LOVED * FORGIVEN * EMPOWERED
We are created to... * WORSHIP * FELLOWSHIP * GROW INTO SPIRITUAL MATURITY * SERVE * WITNESS
Who I Am In Christ ( 1 Peter 2:9-10) I AM... 1. Accepted 2. Valued 3. Loved 4. Forgiven 5. Empowered
A RENEWED MIND
(Rom 12:2; 1 Cor. 2:16) Having the mind of Christ means…
- I am keenly aware of God’s presence in my life
- I see me for who I really am
- I realize there is plan and purpose for my life
- I have been called to live my life for HIS glory - I live to please God alone.
- I rely on God’s power rather than my own ability
- I submit to HIS will not mine
- I understand what it means to be a servant (to serve)
- I understand what it mean to be a dispenser of grace
- I learn the power of my words (control my tongue)
- I live my life today with eternity in mind.
Gratitude
1 Thess. 5:16-18
How can we be grateful with everything going on around us?
- Our gratitude depends on who God is.
- Our gratitude depends on what He has done (past).
- Our gratitude depends on what He will do (future).
Why should I be grateful?
- It takes my focus off my situation.
- It does more for me than it does for God.
- It makes me a happier person.
Cultivate a habit of gratitude.
- Make it part of your devotional life.
- Share with others (in terms of witness).
- Express gratitude to others.
- Serve God and others.
The RESURRECTION means EVERYTHING
(Romans 8:31-39)
Because Jesus rose from the dead: 1. NOTHING CAN COME AGAINST US - God is for us (8:31) 2. OUR DEBT IS PAID - my sins are forgiven (8:33) 3. THERE IS NO MORE CONDEMNATION - Guilt & Shame have no power over me (8:34) 4. WE ARE RECIPIENTS OF HIS UNCONDITIONAL LOVE - Nothing can separate us form his love (8:35) 5. WE LIVE VICTORIOUS LIVES - We are more than conquerors (8:37) 6. WE HAVE HOPE FOR THE FUTURE - Eternity with Him (8:23-25)
Luke 19:1-10
4 Truths:
- No matter how small I feel, Jesus notices me.
- People may push me away, but Jesus still accepts me.
- God can still use me.
- God always loves me.
Our ultimate responsibility is knowing God.
Our spiritual lives can not be based on emotional experiences but must be based on the Word of God.
Jeremiah:422
Jeremiah: 9:2-3, 23-24
Working Out Your Salvation
Many times as believer we settle into maintenance mode. God has not called us to maintain, he has called us to be like Christ.
Philippians 2:12-13 New International Version (NIV) Do Everything Without Grumbling 12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Three things God uses to bring about spiritual growth:
- The Word of God
- The Holy Spirit
- Situations, circumstances, and the people around us.
Three things I have to do to work out my salvation
- Allow God's Word to renew my mind
- Be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit
- Choose how I am going to respond to the things that happen in my life
PRAYING WITH CONFIDENCE (Matthew 6:5 - 13) Philippians 4:6 (NLT) We can pray with confidence because… 1. God is our Heavenly father 2. He CARES 3. He will NEVER let you down 4. He is ALWAYS there 5. He is ABLE
Relationships
Ruth 1:14-17, 2:10, 2:20, 3:1-5, 3:9-11
Relationships are made up of normal and daily interactions.
- Selflessly committed
- To God
- To each other
- Humility
- Toward Boaz
- Not expecting anything in return
- Not entitled, laying yourself down
- Kindness
- Boaz shows kindness to Ruth
- Boaz contradicts the prejudice of our culture
Lessons from the 10 Lepers
(Luke 17:11-19) - They REALIZED their NEED - You matter to Jesus - The Genuineness of Faith is always tested - MOST OFTEN GOD’S POWER IS RELEASED WHEN YOU STEP OUT IN FAITH - THEIR RESPONSE TO THE MIRACLE - Express Gratitude (GIVING THANKS) - The Lasting Blessing
The Challenge of Grace
(Matthew 20:1-16) 1. Grace reminds us that God’s favor is a gift – it cannot be earned… 2. Grace gives us dignity - it keeps us from looking down on ourselves 3. Grace gives us a second chance
A Church that Grows... (Acts 2:46,46; 4:23-31)
A Church that Grows is… - United in Prayer - Committed in Fellowship - God-Centered in Devotion - Scripture is the Foundation - Outward in it’s Purpose
WHAT DEFINES US
THE LEGACY OF CALEB (Josh. 14:6-15) 1. He was COMMITED He Followed God “wholeheartedly” 2. He was CONFIDENT He Held On to God’s Promise 3. He was COURAGEOUS He had to overcome - the nay-sayers - the giants
From Promise to Fulfillment
(Gen. 37:5 – 10, 18; 39:1-3, 20-2; 40:23; 41:1) FOUR Truths: 1. Very often there is a period of waiting from Promise to Fulfillment (Sometimes things get worse) 2. God is with you during the time of waiting 3. Be Faithful during the time of waiting - When things don’t go the way you need them to go - In the Suffering & Pain - When you seem to be going nowhere 4. Your Faithfulness will be rewarded (Gen. 41:14-16)
TAKING A STAND IN A SECULAR WORLD (Daniel 1:17-21; 6:1-28)
1. HOW? - Decide in advance
- Be Firmly rooted in God's Word - Choose believers as my best friends - Stay connected to a church, a small group and get involved in a ministry 2. BENFITS OF TAKING A STAND FOR GOD… - Gives me Victory over my Fears - Strengthens my Faith/Builds my Character - Opens the Door for a Miracle - Challenges Others to Take a Stand - Testimony to Unbelievers - God will Reward You.
There was a woman who had an incurable disease. Find out what happened when she met Jesus.
Guest speaker Reverend Dalton Froman asks the question "How are things going for you?" in his sermon "Grace Point".
What does it mean to trust HIM?
(2 Kings 4:1-7)
-
Let your pain lead you to faith in god, not away from Him.
-
Faith always stretches us.
-
Getting to know God better.
- Hanging around other people who walk in faith.
-
Taking small risks and seeing God be faithful.
-
Faith requires action.
-
Share your story.
DARING TO TRUST HIM: COMMITED TO GENEROSITY
Why Should I be Committed to Generosity?
- It Honors God
-
2 Cor. 9:13 (NLT); Prov. 3:9
-
It Makes me more like God/Christ
-
Matt. 6:21
-
It is the Antidote for Materialism
-
Matt. 6:24; 1 Tim. 6:17-18
-
It Reflects my Faith & my Character 2 Cor. 9:13 (NLT); Mal. 3:10
-
It Unlocks God’s Blessing (Prosperity & Protection) Prov. 11:25; Ps. 112:5-6; Luke 6:58
-
It Brings Joy & Happiness
-
Acts 20:35
-
It has an Eternal Impact & Reward
- 1 Tim. 6:18-19
DARE TO TRUST HIM - COMMITMENT “Give yourselves completely to God—every part of you—for you have been brought back to life, and you want to be tools in the hands of God, used for his good purposes.” Romans 6:13 (LB)
“Since God has shown us great mercy, offer your lives as a living sacrifice to him. Your offering must be only for God and pleasing to him, which is the spiritual way for you to worship.” Romans 12:1 (NCV) 1. TO STRENGTHEN MY FAITH . . . I MUST UNITE WITH OTHERS IN WORSHIP. (Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 100:2)
- TO DISCOVER MY IDENTITY & PURPOSE . . . I MUST connect with others in fellowship Romans 12:4-5 (Mes); 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
- TO DEVELOP MY POTENTIAL . . . I MUST LEARN FROM OTHERS TO GROW Ephesians 4:16 ; Romans 14:17
- TO EXPERIENCE SIGNIFICANCE . . . I MUST SERVE WITH OTHERS IN MINISTRY (1 Peter 4:10; Mark 8:35; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
- TO MAKE AN ETERNAL DIFFERENCE . . . I MUST PARTNER IN THE GREAT COMMISSION Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Corinthians 8:3, 5 (Mes)
Dare to Trust Him (A Woman of Faith) 1 Samuel 1: 1-20
- Her Faith was Tested
- She was Barren
- She was Ridiculed
-
She was Broken
-
She was COMMITTED to Trusting HIM
-
Her Prayer
-
Her faith was Rewarded
- Renewed Hope
- Her Praise
-
The Answer
-
Her Godly Legacy
- A passion for His presence/Prayer
- A passion for Praise/Witness
- A passion for Service
Dare to Trust Him (Faith vs Fear - Num. 13 & 14)
Hebrew 11:1
Man’s perspective (natural) => FEAR God’s perspective (spiritual) => FAITH
FEAR - - Exaggerates my Problems (13:27,28, 31, 32)
-
Underestimate our own abilities (13:33)
-
Discourages me Easily (14:1)
-
Causes me to Complain (14:2)
-
Give up and Blame God (13:3-4)
FAITH - - Shrinks my Problems
-
Opens the door for a Miracle
-
Moves God to Act on my behalf
-
Unlocks the Promises of God
-
Power to Persevere in Tough times
Gethsemane to the Easter Monday
(Lessons from Easter Weekend)
-
The PAIN (Matthew 26:36-46)
-
The CONFUSION (Matthew 26:31)
-
The JOY (John 16:16ff)
HE IS ALIVE (What meant then; What it means now) BACK THEN: It meant... 1. He Spoke the Truth 2. He had the Authority 3. He Delivers on his Promise NOW: It means… 1. Forgiveness 2. Strength 3. Hope
The Darkest Day in History (Luke 23:32-46) The Confusion at the cross… 1. The Confused Soldiers - The darkness brought them into the Light 2. The Confused Crowd - The Darkness brought them chaos and conviction 3. The Confused Disciples
- The Darkness brought them disappointed
When I Met Jesus…
(The Woman who Washed Jesus’ Feet) Luke 7:36-50 When I met Jesus… 1. He ACCEPTED me (no condemnation) 2. He DEFENDED me 3. He FORGAVE me 4. He SAVED me 5. He Gave me PEACE Evidence of a transformed life - The Genuineness of her Conviction (The tears) - The Depth of her Gratitude (Washing/Wiping his feet) - The Sincerity of her Devotion (kissing his feet) - The Extravagance of her Love (expensive perfume)
When I Met Jesus…
(The Woman at the Well - John 4) 1. He REACHED out to me… - Jesus was deliberate - Jesus broke the barriers 2. I was confronted with the TRUTH - Who i was/am - Who He was/is (There was no condemnation) 3. He made me and offer i couldn’t refuse - living water 4. He radically changed my life - Eternal focus - Freedom from guilt/shame - Fear replaced by boldness
When I met Jesus…
(The Tax Collector’s Story - Luke 19:1-10) I. FOUR things the world looks at: - Outward Appearances (How do I look) - Wealth (How much I have) - Achievements (How much I have accomplished) - Approval (How much people like me) II. When I Met Jesus… - He NOTICED me - He KNEW my name - He WANTED me - He RESTORED me - He CHANGED me (Worship)
1 Corinthians 13
Verse 1 love is more important than spiritual gifts Verse 2 love is more important than knowledge Education is not the answer, love is the answer Verse 2 love is more important than faith Verse 3 love is more important/VALUABLE than Do we really give with a heart of love? Love is more than valuable than any sacrifice Your sacrifice is useless, if you don't have love Love is the beginning everything Verse 4 is not in a hurry but is ready when the opportunity arises Love is kindness in action Love is not jealous Real love is not in competition with others Love does not boast Love is not proud I am who I am because Jesus chose me to be an object of his love. Verse 5 does not pull others down. Love is not self seeking Love is never directed inwards, it is focused outward Love is not easily provoked How many prodigals have we kept out of the church because of our anger and self righteousness? Keeps no record of wrongs Love does not settle the score Love is not entertained by evil Verse 6 love always protects Trusts is not suspicious or cynical Love sees the potential in people Love always hopes Love always perseveres, endures all things When we love people we don't give up on them Verse 8 love never fails Love never fails because it is rooted in the character of God, and God never changes To be more like Chist is to grow in love
Powerful and Effective Prayer
(James 5:13-20) Intro: - There is tremendous POWER in prayer - It is our greatest PRIVILEGE - it is our greatest RESPONSIBILITY (Also probably our greatest FAILURE). 1. WHEN to PRAY When I am hurting: - emotionally - physically - spiritually 2. HOW to pray EFFECTIVELY - We must ask - Have the right motives - Have a real relationship - We ask in FAITH
Practicing Patience
(James 5:7-12) 1. We Need to be Patient: - We can’t control the circumstances - We can’t change people - We can’t explain the problems 2. We Practice Patience because: - God is in Control - God rewards Patience - God is working things out 3.How do i practice Patience: - Wait Expectantly - Wait Quietly - Wait confidently
Facing the Future in 2019
(James 4:13-17) Let us plan for the future but... 1. Be careful making plans WITHOUT God 2. Do NOT take tomorrow for granted 3. Do NOT put off doing good
Genesis 12:1-5; Acts 7:2-3; Gen. 11:31 We have to answer two basic questions about “The Call” - What is God’s Call upon your life? - Are you walking in obedience to The Call? 1. What is God’s call? a. First Main Call - we are called to a relationship with God through his son. b. Second flows from the first - we call others into a relationship with God 2. Are you Walking in Obedience to the call? Obedience to the call requires: a. A step of faith b. Watch for distraction c. A willing heart
EXPERIENCE PEACE (Rom 8) I Experience Inexplicable Peace because I am IN CHRIST. In Christ… 1. My Sins are Forgiven (8:1 - no condemnation) 2. My Future is Secure (8:11 - Eternal Life) 3. ALL things work together for Good (8: 28) 4. God is For me (8:31 - God is FOR us) 5. He Meets ALL my needs (8:32) 6. He NEVER gives up on me (8:38,39 - Nothing can separate me from His love)
Did God Really Say Give Thanks in All Circumstances? Robert Miller 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
2 Corinthians 11:23-27
Philippians 4:12-13
Acts 27:13-44
- Hold onto the Word and promise of God.
- Stay focused on those around you.
- selfishness and thankfulness are both contagious
- Know that there is a purpose and plan for it.
LET GOD BE GOD James 4:11, 12 Why do we judge? - To DEFLECT ATTENTION away from us - It appeals to our PRIDE (feel better about ourselves) Why Should i NOT judge? - we are a FAMILY (4:11) - It is UNLOVING (4:11) - There is only ONE JUDGE (4:12) When is it wrong to judge? - When we’re practicing the same sin (Rom 2:1-2) - When it blinds me to my own faults (Matt 7:3-5) - Based on outward appearances (John 7:24) - Before you hear ALL the facts (John 7:51) - Based on their Cultural Expressions (Col. 2:16; Romans 14) - When it causes you to speak bad about another (James 4:11) - Don’t be quick to judge a person's motives. Conclusion: - I will be judged by the same standard that i judge (Matt 7:1-2) - God is going to hold me accountable - God has been merciful to me (James 2:13)
DEALING WITH CONFLICT (James 4:1-10) key verse: 4:1 "What causes fights and quarrels among you. Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?” I. Three DESIRES that cause CONFLICT... - COVETING - PLEASURE - PRIDE II. The SOLUTION - HUMILITY - SURRENDER TO GOD - RESIST THE ENEMY - DRAW CLOSE TO GOD - ASK FOR FORGIVENESS
WISE CONNECTIONS (James 3:13-18) Key Verse 3:18 - And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness WISDOM FROM ABOVE is (vs 17)... 1. PURE 2. DOES NOT PROVOKE 3. CONSIDERATE 4. SUBMISSIVE (REASONABLE) 5. DOES NOT PICK ON MISTAKES 6. IMPARTIAL/SINCERE (UNHYPOCRITICAL)
SPEAK LIFE James 3:1-12 I. WHY MUST I WATCH WHAT I SAY? Because… - WORDS GUIDE (vs 3 - 4) - WORDS CAN DESTROY (vs 5 - 8) - WORDS REVEAL WHO I REALLY AM (vs 9 -12) II. How do we control our tongue? - RENEW our hearts and minds - SEEK God’s help EVERYDAY - THINK before you speak
FAITH: THE REAL THING (James 2:14-26) Paul’s understanding of works is different from James understanding of works. (Eph. 2:8-10) FAITH is more than just: 1. TALK (2:14) 2. A FEELING (2:15, 16, 17) 3. AN INTELLECTUAL PURSUIT (2:18) 4. BELIEVING (2:19) FAITH is something WE SHOW & DO (2:20-26) Real Faith is ALWAYS accompanied by action!
God’s Word Blesses Our Lives
(James 1:19-27) James 1:25 - But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. 1. ACCEPT The Word (19-21) - Be listeners - Be slow to anger - Get rid of the junk - Be humble 2. REFLECT on The Word (22-25) - Read - Meditate - Memorize 3. APPLY The Word (22-27)
Winning the Battle in Your Mind: Temptation
James 1:12-18
James 1:12 - "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” (KJV) 1. ALL of us are tempted (vs 13: when we are…) 2. Take Responsibility (vs13: ‘…no one should say God is tempting me…’) 3. Be Prepared to face it (vs 14-16) Learn how temptation works: Desire => Deception => Disobedience => Death 4. Redirect your thoughts (vs 17 - 18) 5. Give up Control (1Cor. 10:13) - Accountability/Fellowship with other believers - Get into the WORD
The Power of Decision Making
James 1:5-11
Link for video mentioned in sermon
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZMAkLarIUo I. The issue is INDECISION
"A doubleminded man is unstable in all his ways." (vs. 8 KJV)
("DOUBLE-MINDED” - Greek "two-souled”)
Indecision Causes:
-
Damaged Emotions
-
Insecurity in Relationships
-
Inconsistency in our Spiritual life
II. The Solution is GETTING WISDOM (vs. 5-6a)
- ACKNOWLEDGE you can’t do it on your own
"If any of you lack wisdom ..." (vs. 5a)
- PRAY - Ask God
" ... he should ask God ..." (vs 5b)
- BELIEVE God for an answer
"But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt ..." (vs. 6)
III. WHY BELIEVE: Because HIS Promise
"... Ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (vs. 5c)
How God gives:
-
Continually
-
Generously
-
Without finding fault
Misconception: God’s will does NOT mean God is not going to make the decision for you!
The Silver Lining (James 1:2-6)
I. FOUR TRUTHS ABOUT THE PROBLEMS IN YOUR LIFE: A. We are ALL going to face them
B. We can NOT predict when
C. They come in different sizes
D. There is a purpose behind each one of them (The Silver Lining)… - Trials in life Purify my Faith - Trials Teach me Patience - Trials Build my Character
II. HOW DO WE HANDLE THE PROBLEMS:
A. With Joy
B. In Pray
C. Be Still and Wait on God
The Test for Spiritual Growth (maturity)
(James 1:2-4) I. SPIRITUAL GROWTH (MATURITY) is NOT:
-
It is NOT determined by how old you are
-
It is NOT based on your appearance
-
It is NOT based on social status
-
It is NOT determined on your qualifications
Maturity is determined by your attitude!
II. THE TEST of SPIRITUAL GROWTH/MATURITY:
-
How do we handle pressure? ( James 1:2-4, 1:12)
-
Are we Sensitive towards others? (James 2:8)
(See also 2:1-6, 14-16)
-
Do you know when to talk and when to stay silent? (James 1:26; Eph. 4:29)
-
Am I a bridge builder or do my action/words cause division? (James 4:11-12)
(2 Sources of Conflict: Selfishness & Being too quick to judge)
- Have you learnt to wait patiently on God? (James 5:7, 11)
The truth about the lies they tell us! (John 8:31 - 32; 14:6)
I. FACTS OF LIFE I NEED TO BE AWARE OF:
-
The World does have an influence on me.
-
Untrue beliefs are the cause of my unhappiness and emotional problems. (John 8:32)
-
What i believe is a choice I make. (Romans 1:25)
-
My beliefs determine the way i live my life. (Prov. 4:23 LB)
-
God is the only source of absolute truth (Rom. 3: 3-4, Luke 21:33)
-
Building my life on God and His Word is a sure foundation. (Matt. 7)
II. GREATER COMMITMENT:
- … to SEEKING the Truth
- … to BELIEVING the Truth
- … to LIVING the Truth
Pastor Sid Chatterjee shares a short devotion on the purpose of praise.
Praise or worship does not depend on the circumstances or condition you are in.
We praise because we know that God is still in control.
Worship is a lifestyle, not just something you can turn off and turn on.
We worship God, we proclaim his name because we value who he is in our lives.
The Unlikely Hero (Judges 6) 1. The Lord’s Discipline (6:1-6) 2. The Lord’s Message (6:7-10) 3. The Lord’s “unlikely” Hero (6:7-24) - the call - the affirmation - the sign Link to song mentioned in sermon Blessings-Laura Story
Keys to Perseverance (James 1:2-4; Psalm 143) Introduction: - Don’t QUIT on PEOPLE - Don't QUIT on PRAYER - Don't QUIT on GOD’S PROMISES FOUR KEYS: 1. BE HONEST WITH GOD - tell him how you really feel. 2. RE-FOCUS ON GOD - Remember who your God is 3. SEEK HIS WILL - ask him for the next step 4. TRUST HIM - Leave it in His hands
Sandra Fowler's message recorded on 7/25/18
John 15:1-8
Remain in Fellowship
Remain Fruitful
Remain Faithful
Guest speaker Rober Miller shares his testimony. It's a story that brings hope and healing.
Living in Sync: The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory Matthew 6:5-13
Matthew 6:5-13 New International Version (NIV) Prayer 5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babblinglike pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you needbefore you ask him.
9 “This, then, is how you should pray:
“‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
The kingdom of God.... * was evidenced in the past * is a reality for today * is established forever
Living in Sync with God 1. Living in God's Kingdom * Putting Him first in everything (marriage, family, fincances, career, trouble, time) 2. Living by God's Power * Spending time in prayer * Stepping out in faith * Perservering - don't quit 3. Living for God's Glory * Reflect God's love * Serve willingly/faithfully * Share Christ