Inheritance Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Inheritance
Inheritance Church Sermons is a weekly podcast featuring the most recent sermons and exclusive content from Inheritance Church.
MAIN IDEA: The Father has granted me an open invitation into a victory lifestyle.
Embrace the Process
The process is all grace, accessed through faith.
The Victory Process
Ephesians 6:12 (NASB) “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
2 Corinthians 10:5 (NASB) “We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.”
John 14:16-27 (NASB) “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you. Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful.”
John 16:23 (NASB) “And on that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.”
ACTIVATION
REPENT
RENOUNCE
RECEIVE
Discussion Questions:
Based on the Ephesians passage (see above), spend some time talking about how the battle is one against spiritual forces. What role do they play?
Based on the 2 Corinthians passage (see above), spend some time talking about how the battle is about our thought life. What role do our thoughts play? What is the role of truth? How does Paul describe it?
Taking what you’ve discovered in the first two discussion points, discuss: How does the Enemy and his demons find “weak points” in our defenses?
What is the role of the Holy Spirit in helping us have the mind of Christ (see John 14 above)? What tools does the Holy Spirit use? What does it mean that Jesus commanded us to maintain peace?
How would you describe Jesus’ invitation in John 16 (see above)? What is he inviting us into?
What are some practical ways you can apply these insights in your own thought life? How can they help regulate healthy emotions? How can they help you overcome fear and anxiety?
As a group, spend some time praying over one another. Is there someone who needs deliverance from a spirit of fear/anxiety or something else? Is there someone who has a “big ask” (John 16)? If so, spend time praying in Jesus’ Name and claiming your place in the Father’s presence.
MAIN IDEA: The baptism in the Holy Spirit ignites and activates believers
The Promise: Acts 1:4-8
4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
The Purpose: Mark 16:15-18
15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
The Privilege: John 14:12-18
12 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. 13 And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.
15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
The Power: Acts 2:1-4, 14-18
Discussion Questions:
According to the passages we read, what are some of the gifts the Holy Spirit brings to the church?
Are these gifts meant for a select few or for all believers?
What is the connection between the baptism in the Holy Spirit and the activation of these gifts.
Since the baptism in the Holy Spirit was such an important part of Jesus’ teaching and promises, why do you think it is not emphasized more in the church? What are the results of minimizing this great gift in the Body of Christ?
As a group, if you have received the baptism, share what you have experienced and how it has changed your life.
As a group, invite anyone (without pressure) to be prayed for to receive the baptism. Feel free to use this format, from our resource The Baptism in the Holy Spirit:
Building Bridges
Series: What’s Next?
May 22, 2022
PRAY
MAPS: Incredible story of how the Gospel Spread!
JESUS: 90 miles from Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea (almost exactly the distance from GR to Baldwin)
Incredible spread of the Gospel. No modern transit. No modern communications. Obstacles and barriers along the way. Shipwrecks. Bandits. Weather. Treacherous landscape. Spread like wildfire!
HOW DID THEY DO IT? THEY BRIDGED THE GAP!
MAIN IDEA: We are bridges to bring God’s love to a lost world.
Becoming the Bridge
The Holy Spirit is at work on their side of the bridge. (1-8)
We must seek the Father’s heart on our side of the bridge (9-16)
We need to make space and be ready to cross over ( 17-23)
What Can We Do?
Foster existing connections
Create common spaces
Be bold with opportunities
“Building Bridges” Guidebook
Training Videos
Events
Discussion Questions:
Pick up the story of Peter and the Gentiles in Acts 10:34-48 (take turns reading). Question: How hard did Peter have to work to convince the people to receive the Good News? Who did all the work? What had to change so that Peter could be used to “bridge the gap.”
Talk about the work the Holy Spirit does throughout Acts 10 to help bring the Good News to the Gentiles. What does this tell us about the work of the Holy Spirit? What does this tell us about ourselves?
Spend some time together praying, seeking the Lord’s heart for the lost:
As you pray, focus not on getting through a “list,” but on hosting the Presence.
Have Acts 10 (or another relevant passage) open as you pray and meditate.
Really listen and ask the Lord to show you how He wants you to pray and pray into that.
If you feel the Holy Spirit gives you a word for the group, please share it.
Following the previous sermon (“You’re In Search and Rescue,” May 12, 2022), the discussion time encouraged you to think strategically about what you could do as a small group to build bridges in the community. Take some time, refine the discussion and, as a group, see if you can turn those basic ideas into an actual plan.
Evangelism Summer
2022
MAIN IDEA: Community Groups are called to be Kingdom “Search & Rescue” units.
Acts 19:1-10 (NKJV)
And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples 2 he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”
So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.”
3 And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?”
So they said, “Into John’s baptism.”
4 Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.”
5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. 7 Now the men were about twelve in all.
8 And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God. 9 But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus. 10 And this continued for two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.
Ephesians 4:11-12 (ESV)
And [Jesus] gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry
Conversation
Have you ever had a chance to share the Gospel with a person? If so, what was it like? If not, do you want to?
On a scale of 1-10, how equipped do you feel to share the Gospel? Explain your answer.
What is one thing the church can do to help you step out and share your faith?
EXERCISE: Confessing the Truth
I am salt and light in the world
We are in this together
Jesus is tangibly present when we gather
Commissioned: Search & Rescue
COMMIT together
PRAY together
PLAN together
IMPLEMENT together
Discussion Questions:
Revisit the two passages. In what way did Paul “equip the people” to do the ministry? How effectively did they minister?
As a community group, talk about what it would look like for your group to take up the outreach challenge that Adam and Zach talked about. What are some ideas you could implement as a group?
Take narrow down some of your ideas and pick one or two. How could you contribute to this happening?
Before heading out, spend some time praying and listening to the Holy Spirit. Are there any other ideas that emerge?
Please SHARE what you come up with with Pastor Larry (larry.kirk@inheritance.church). We want to help you any way we can.
Evangelism Summer
2022
“Building Bridges” Guidebook
This guide will give you, your family and your community group some practical ideas for building bridges with people who are not walking with Jesus. We would encourage you to check out this resource, discuss it in your groups or around the dinner table. Find another friend or two and try something out! This guidebook can be a great reference for you as you seek to grow in your own faith and help build a culture of mission in our community. (Available June 5, 2022)
How to Use These Videos
Each video can be used by individuals or small groups, but the best learning will happen with other people (even one other person). They can be used for devotions, at the dinner table, or in discussion with your community group. Each one will walk you through a step-by-step process of learning and practicing the skills. Our suggestion is to watch one of the videos, following the steps laid out along the way. Find one other person who has a fire burning in their hearts, learn together, and take a step of faith.
Events
Additionally, this summer we will have 2-3 events that everyone is invited to support. These events will be a more “public” experience of shining our light. We will have the following events:
Encounter Nights: We will be having 2-3 “encounter nights,” giving people an opportunity to encounter our community and, even more importantly, God’s presence. We will hold these in a local park. The SOZO team will be leading in a night of worship. Before the music starts, we’ll be having a community BBQ, inviting community members to join us. As a community, we’ll be preparing for these nights by getting equipped, prayerwalking our communities, and showing up ready to show Jesus’ love to everyone who comes. We will provide a list of dates soon!
Treasure Hunt Gatherings: For those who are interested in applying what we’ve been learning about operating in the Spirit, we will be having a series of gatherings to learn about and practice “treasure hunt” evangelism. This method of evangelism seeks to grow in responding to the Holy Spirit, receiving words of knowledge and operating in supernatural power (like we see in the New Testament). If you’re interested in trying this out, please email us and we’ll provide more detailed information.
Forgive as You’ve Been ForgivenSeries: What’s Next?
April 24, 2022
Matthew 18:21-3521 Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”
22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!
23 “Therefore, the Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him. 24 In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed him millions of dollars. 25 He couldn’t pay, so his master ordered that he be sold—along with his wife, his children, and everything he owned—to pay the debt.
26 “But the man fell down before his master and begged him, ‘Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.’ 27 Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt.
28 “But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.
29 “His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. 30 But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full.
31 “When some of the other servants saw this, they were very upset. They went to the king and told him everything that had happened. 32 Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. 33 Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ 34 Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt.
35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.”
MAIN IDEA: Forgiveness is essential for Kingdom advancement.Areas of UnforgivenessUnforgiveness in any area spreads poison to every area.
Step Into Forgiveness
Discussion Questions: Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness can be incredibly challenging on various levels. What do you find challenging about his teaching? Explain your answer. * According to the message, what are some of the negative consequences of unforgiveness? Have you seen some of those dynamics at play in your own experiences? If you feel comfortable, please share. * What are some ways we tend to justify unforgiveness in our own lives? * Adam talked about a “spirit of offense.” Can you describe how you have observed this spirit at work in everyday life? * Adam mentioned “Areas of Unforgiveness.” What were some of those areas? How does becoming aware of these areas help you to examine your own heart? * Is there an area in your life where you are feeling challenged to forgive? * How does meditating on the Resurrection make forgiveness possible?*
Series: What’s Next?
May 1, 2022
Last week: Forgiveness is essential for Kingdom advancement.
The Forgiveness JourneyForgiveness can become a lifestyle when consistently practiced.
MAIN IDEA: Grace is the light this world desperately needs.Matthew 5:14-1514 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
To Give, You Must First ReceiveGrace is so much more than “unmerited favor”
Adoption
Acceptance
Abundance
Celebration
EXERCISE: Receiving to Give
Discussion Questions: Adam challenged us to think of grace as more than “unmerited favor.” How did he describe it? In what way did this expand your understanding of grace? * How do the images of adoption and God’s fatherhood help us think more deeply about what it means to “shine our light”? * What was something the Holy Spirit showed you about yourself during the exercise? How could that revelation become a light to people who are living in darkness? * What is one concrete thing you could do to steward and mature the light God has put inside of you?*
In John 14:12 Jesus said we would do greater things.
God is moving all around the world. Zach Santmier shares testimony on miracles he witnessed in Africa, greater works than what Jesus did, and journey into deeper faith in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Just as the Spirit moves, heals, restores, delivers, and casts out demons in Africa, He wants to do the same thing in our community.
Children and Champions
February 27, 2022
MAIN IDEA: Receive it like a child. Pursue it like a champion.
I Am A Child
God’s amazing grace determines my place in His heart.
Romans 8:16-17 (CSB) The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children, and if children, also heirs…
1 John 3:1 (CSB) See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God’s children—and we are!
Galatians 4:4-7 (CSB) When the time came to completion, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. 6 And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba, Father!” 7 So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then God has made you an heir.
Activation Exercise
Receive Your Identity
John 16:13-15 (CSB) When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth. For he will not speak on his own, but he will speak whatever he hears. He will also declare to you what is to come. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything the Father has is mine. This is why I told you that he takes from what is mine and will declare it to you.
The Treasure
February 27, 2022
MAIN IDEA: Following the Holy Spirit requires forming new priorities.
Access
We’ve been given radical access.
Luke 17:20-21 (NKJV) Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; 21 nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”
Decisions
We’re free to cultivate a faith mindset or settle for an unbelief mindset.
Priorities
How can we experience a shift in priorities?
1. Realize the Father delights in granting this gift.
-
Recognize the value of this gift.
Matthew 13:44-46 (NKJV) “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46 who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” -
Shift from a settler mindset to a searcher mindset.
Matthew 7:7-8 (NLT) “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Activation Exercise
1. INDIVIDUAL EXERCISE: Write a prayer, sharing your heart with the Holy Spirit
Express your gratitude for Who He is and that He lives inside of you
Humbly confess if you haven’t made learning to follow Him your priority
Profess your desire to learn how to hear Him and obey.
- GROUP EXERCISE: Break into groups of 3-4, answer the following question and take turns praying for one another.
What are you hoping to get out of this series?
Discussion Questions:
What are you hoping to get out of this series?
In your experience, how have you experienced the leading of the Holy Spirit? If you are able, share a time in your life when you clearly experienced the Holy Spirit leading you in a particular way.
“Whether or not we experience the Holy Spirit’s guidance is up to us.” Respond to this statement. Does this sound like a heavy responsibility or exciting opportunity? Why?
What are some practical ways you can begin learning to follow the Holy Spirit?
What does it mean to prioritize learning to follow the Holy Spirit? Practically, what does it mean for your own life? What are some obstacles to it? How can you overcome these obstacles?
Direction
Series: Invitation
February 13, 2022
John 14:6 (CSB) “I am the way and the truth and the life.”
MAIN IDEA: God has given us directions into eternal life.DestinationJesus reveals the goodness of eternal life.
- John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you
- Revelation 7:16-17 They will no longer hunger; they will no longer thirst; the sun will no longer strike them, nor will any scorching heat. 17 For the Lamb who is at the center of the throne will shepherd them; he will guide them to springs of the waters of life, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
- John 14:23 Jesus answered, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him
- Psalm 27:4 I have asked one thing from the Lord; it is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, gazing on the beauty of the Lord
- Psalm 16:11 You reveal the path of life to me; in your presence is abundant joy; at your right hand are eternal pleasures.
- 2 Chronicles 5:13-14 The trumpeters and singers joined together to praise and thank the Lord with one voice. They raised their voices, accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and musical instruments, in praise to the Lord: For he is good; his faithful love endures forever. The temple, the Lord’s temple, was filled with a cloud. 14 And because of the cloud, the priests were not able to continue ministering, for the glory of the Lord filled God’s temple.
- 2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
- John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
DirectionsJesus reveals the way to access eternal life.
- John 14:6 (CSB) “I am the way and the truth and the life.”
- We gain access to it through faith in HIS SACRIFICE
- Mark 10:45 the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
- We can continually experience it through the HOLY SPIRIT
- John 14:16-17 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive him because it doesn’t see him or know him. But you do know him, because he remains with you and will be in you.
- We can walk in it daily by learning to TRUST AND OBEY
- John 14:21 The one who has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. And the one who loves me will be loved by my Father. I also will love him and will reveal myself to him.
DecisionsEveryone is free to choose which direction they will take.
Discussion Questions: What does it mean to experience eternal life here and now? * How did Jesus make the way into eternal life? How does Jesus model the way we can experience it? * What are the practical, everyday things we struggle with that make it difficult to live in the Father’s presence? How can we discover a way to do this, even when we live such busy and often-interrupted lives? What is one of your main daily challenges to living this way? * As a group, spend some time praying for one another. Ask the Lord to reveal His heart for each other. Listen for the Holy Spirit. Speak His words of encouragement and blessing over one another.*
MAIN IDEA: The Father wants me to walk the victory Jesus provided.
Total Victory
Jesus’ resurrection power overcomes every obstacle and brings transformation.
Sin & Sickness
Spiritual Realm
Key Principle: Everything Jesus took to the cross has been redeemed; every power that tried to keep Him in the grave has been vanquished!
Shared Victory
We walk in resurrection power.
Key Principle: What is actual in the spiritual realm is potential in the visible realm. We are in the business of manifesting it.
Battle Cry
It’s time for God’s people to walk in victory for the sake of a suffering world.
Change our expectations
Recognize our responsibilities
Learn to actualize the possibilities
Scriptures for Further Encouragement
The following passages are all selected from the Letters of Paul. You can reflect on them, pray through them and ask the Holy Spirit to apply them to your own heart. These particular passages were chosen because they powerfully reveal the victorious life that Jesus died and rose again to give us. They help reveal the resurrection power we have through the indwelling Holy Spirit!
Romans 6:4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:5-11 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. 7 For he who has died has been freed from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11 Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:14 sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.
Romans 6;22-23 having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh
Romans 8:5 those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit
Romans 8:11 if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.
“I am the good shepherd.” John 10:11, 14
John 10:10-13
10 A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand, since he is not the shepherd and doesn’t own the sheep, leaves them and runs away when he sees a wolf coming. The wolf then snatches and scatters them. 13 This happens because he is a hired hand and doesn’t care about the sheep.
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life…”
Series: Invitation
January 16, 2022
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday
John 8:12 (CSB) Jesus spoke to them again: “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.”
MAIN IDEA: The Father wants our lives to bring light to a dark world.
Enlightened by Grace
God meets our pain and confusion with grace when we come in faith.
For the post-abortive
For the unmarried
For the questioning
Enlightened by Truth
A culture that doesn’t defend life is lost in darkness.
A Few Scriptures Supporting Life
Genesis 1:27 “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”
Psalm 100:3 “Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.”
Isaiah 44:24 “Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, who formed you from the womb: ‘I am the Lord, who made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who spread out the earth by myself.'”
Isaiah 64:8 “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.”
Psalm 127:3-5a “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!”
Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in your mother’s body I chose you. Before you were born I set you apart to serve me. I appointed you to be a prophet to the nations.”
A Few Abortion Facts
Life begins at fertilization.
A child’s heart beats at 21 days. It is audible at 8-10 weeks gestation
Six weeks after fertilization, brain activity begins
Between five and seven and a half weeks, development of hands and feet occurs.
More than 60 million abortions have taken place since legalization in 1973
Based on available state-level data, approximately 887,000 abortions took place in the United States in 2019, up from approximately 872,000 abortions in 2018.
In 2019, approximately 19% of U.S. pregnancies (excluding spontaneous miscarriages) ended in abortion.
When weighing an abortion decision, women say they expected or experienced judgment (33 percent) or condemnation (26 percent) from a church far more than caring (16 percent) or helpfulness (14 percent).
1 in 4 women have had an abortion
More than four in 10 women who have had an abortion were churchgoers when they ended a pregnancy (attending monthly or more)
Only 1.5% of abortions are due to rape and/or incest
Enlightened for Action
The Father invites us to live the truth that every life matters!
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
Embrace the truth that every life matters.
Support the truth that every life matters.
PRAY for laborers who will bring change until every life matters.
Discussion Questions:
In the sermon, Adam talked about the importance of grace and truth when discussion abortion. Why is it so important to extend and receive both?
In your experience, is this a topic that drives the priorities of most Christians? To what extent should it drive our priorities and practices? Why?
In your experience, does the church discuss the issues surrounding sanctity of human life too little, too much or the right amount? Why do you feel that way?
What do you think the church can and should do to stand for life in our culture?
What could your Community Group do?
What could your family do?
Satisfaction
Invitation
January 9, 2022
Series Intro: We’re going to discover the Father’s heart in the “I am” statements of Jesus.Exodus 3:5-15 (NLT)
5 “Do not come any closer,” the Lord warned. “Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground. 6 I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” When Moses heard this, he covered his face because he was afraid to look at God.
7 Then the Lord told him, “I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their cries of distress because of their harsh slave drivers. Yes, I am aware of their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them… 10 Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people Israel out of Egypt.”
11 But Moses protested to God, “Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?”
12 God answered, “I will be with you. And this is your sign that I am the one who has sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God at this very mountain.”
13 But Moses protested, “If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ they will ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what should I tell them?”
14 God replied to Moses, “I am who I am. Say this to the people of Israel: I am has sent me to you.” 15 God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, the God of your ancestors—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob—has sent me to you. This is my eternal name, my name to remember for all generations.”
MAIN IDEA: The Father invites me to find deep satisfaction in Him.John 6:35 (CSB) “I am the bread of life,” Jesus told them. “No one who comes to me will ever be hungry, and no one who believes in me will ever be thirsty again.”
Everyone Gets HangryI’m not designed to live unsatisfied.
C.S. Lewis: “The Christian says, 'Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists. A baby feels hunger: well, there is such a thing as food. A duckling wants to swim: well, there is such a thing as water. Men feel sexual desire: well, there is such a thing as sex. If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. If none of my earthly pleasures satisfy it, that does not prove that the universe is a fraud. Probably earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy it, but only to arouse it, to suggest the real thing. If that is so, I must take care, on the one hand, never to despise, or to be unthankful for, these earthly blessings, and on the other, never to mistake them for the something else of which they are only a kind of copy, or echo, or mirage. I must keep alive in myself the desire for my true country… I must make it the main object of life to press on to that country and to help others to do the same.”
We need to pay attention to our feelings!
Shift PerspectiveSatisfaction is always closer than I think.
Matthew 7:7-8 “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
An InvitationThe Father is inviting me to influence my world from a place of satisfaction and abundance, not inadequacy and lack.
Discus
Main Idea: The welcome we’re seeking is found with Jesus.
John 1:10-13 (NLT)
He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. 11 He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. 12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
The Shepherds
Jesus welcomes the overlooked.
Luke 2:8-17 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! … 15 When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. 17 After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.
Simeon and Anna
Jesus welcomes the old and the young.
Luke 2:25-28, 36-38 At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him 26 and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, 28 Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God… 36 Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. 37 Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. 38 She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.
The Wise Men
Jesus welcomes outsiders.
Matthew 2:1-2 Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 2 “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.”
Will we practice radical hospitality?
Will we love enough to make our different backgrounds points of unity rather than separation?
Will we respond to Jesus’ invitation?
Discussion Questions:
Can you think of a time when someone welcomed you in? Tell the story. How did it impact you?
If Jesus welcomes everyone, then what is the only thing that can keep someone from knowing him?
How does Jesus’ welcome challenge the church to practice hospitality?
What are the barriers to practicing hospitality in our own lives?
How would a church that practices radical hospitality stand out in our current cultural climate? What are some of the cultural problems that would be addressed if the church practiced this kind of hospitality?
What is the connection between evangelism and hospitality?
How might your small group practice hospitality in the coming year?
We have peace because Jesus brought an unshakable kingdom. Hebrews 12:26-29 (NIV)
26 At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” 27 The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our “God is a consuming fire.”
Peace is full confidence, free from worry or concern. * “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful.” - Heb: 12:28 * When we are at peace, we are not in conflict. We are in perfect harmony with everyone and everything around us.
Jesus and “_____” is the robber of peace. Hebrews 12:26-27 * Anything that is not of God is shakable. * When we put our hope in anything else besides Jesus, we are on a sketchy wooden roller coaster. * Even for those who are in Christ, we still find ourselves putting our hope in things of this world. This is why we must renew our minds to our true identity in Christ.*
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” - Romans 12:2
“… we take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ.” - 2 Cor. 10:5
Jesus Alone Ephesians 2:6 “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” * Galatians 4:7 - “So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child.” * John 8:36 - “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” * Hebrews 12:28 - “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” * Matthew 6:26-30 - “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?*
Jesus and “____” = Less || Jesus ALONE = MoreHaggai 2:6-9
- When God shakes, better is made.
- Jesus did not come to usher in a kingdom of less, but a kingdom of more
- God wants to get rid of the stuff that is not of Him, so that we can have more OF HIM.
- What remains after God has shook? Vs. 9 “And in this place I will grant peace.”
Christmas is still happening, so the world still has hope.
Main Idea: Jesus bridged the gap so we would never have to be alone.John 1:10-14 (NLT)
He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. 11 He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. 12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.
What is the gap?10 He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. 11 He came to his own people, and even they rejected him.
Romans 3:10-13 As the Scriptures say, “No one is righteous—not even one. 11 No one is truly wise; no one is seeking God. 22 All have turned away; all have become useless. No one does good, not a single one.”
Ultimately, the gap is a RELATIONAL problem
How did Jesus bridge the gap?14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.
How can we know we’re not alone?12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
Discussion Questions:
- Describe a time you experienced a sense of isolation or loneliness. What was it like? How did you respond? What are some of the ways we try to cope with those kinds of feelings?
- Can you think of some common ways that Christians think and live as if we’re still waiting for God’s presence? In the sermon, Adam called this the “Advent Myth.” What examples of the “Advent Myth” have you seen in your Church experience?
- What is the role of the Holy Spirit in conveying the Father’s presence to us? In your past church experience, would you say the person and presence of the Holy Spirit is something you’ve learned to experience? Why or why not? What impact has that had on your sense of God’s presence in your life?
- How can a real, living awareness that God is present to bless change a challenging circumstance in your life right now?
- As a group, spend some time in the Father’s presence. Allow the Holy Spirit to minister. If someone is willing to share a difficult situation, gather and pray for them. As you do, realize that the Holy Spirit is present within you. Allow Him to minister through you to that person. Give space and time for the Holy Spirit to bring revelation.
Healing Relationships
Series: God Wants to Heal You
November 28, 2021
Stewardship The Father advances us by investing in us. * We steward faithfully when we’re absolutely confident in His goodness. * Stepping into the authority and power we have for healing*
Main Idea: We can have healing relationships when we experience the Father’s goodness.John 21:13-19 (NLT)
13 Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. 14 This was the third time Jesus had appeared to his disciples since he had been raised from the dead.
15 After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
16 Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
17 A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
18 “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”
Jesus Shows us the Face of the Father
What did Peter need?
What did Jesus Give?
What does this tell us about the Father?
How does this help us have healing relationships? Forgiven People Forgive People * Accepted People Accept People * People who Receive Grace can Extend It * When we meet the one who paid the price, we don’t need to be repaid*
Discussion Questions:
- Describe a time you experienced relational hurt. How did you handle it? Do you feel you’ve been healed from that hurt?
- Are there ways you’ve found it difficult to forgive? Why is it sometimes difficult to walk in forgiveness?
- Is there a place where you want to experience relational healing? What are some of the steps that might help you get there?
Series: God Wants to Heal You
November 21, 2021
Main Idea: Faithful stewardship brings Kingdom advancement. MAIN TEXT: Matthew 25:14-30Kingdom Principles: For the Kingdom of Heaven is like...Kingdom principles reveal new possibilities for the believer that are both present and eternal.
Kingdom Principles: For the Kingdom of Heaven is like...Kingdom principles reveal new possibilities for the believer that are both present and eternal.
The Heart of the Master“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.
The gift of the master grants authority to the steward.
Two Responses16 Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. 18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money.
24 “Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ 26 “But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.
We always operate out of faith or unbelief in God’s Faithfulness
The King’s Reward20 “So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ 21 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Key: Stewardship brings advancement
The Bottom LineUse it or lose it.
28 So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. 29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.
Discussion Questions:
- What gift of Real Truth, Real Power, and/or Real Community have you received in your time at Inheritance? How are you being called to steward and multiply what you have received?
- What is the challenge of stepping out, stewarding and multiplying the gifts that we have received? What makes it difficult? How can your community group help you take the next step out in stewarding the things God has given you?
God Wants to Heal You
Series: God Wants to Heal You
November 7, 2021
Main Idea: We can pray confidently for healing because we know God’s will.
The Rule of FaithWe can’t have faith for what we don’t believe.
Five Reasons You Can Know God Wants to Heal You1. Because Jesus paid the price for your healing
Isaiah 53:4-5 Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. 5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.
2. Because Jesus healed everyone, and perfectly revealed the heart of the Father
John 5:19-20 Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. 20 For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel.
3. Because God has revealed himself as the God who heals
Exodus 15:26 “If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you.” [JEHOVA-RAPHA; YAHWEH-RAPHA]
Psalm 103:2-3 Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: 3 Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases...
4. Because Jesus commanded his disciples to go out and heal
Luke 9:1-2 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 2 He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.
- Matthew 10:7-8 And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.
Luke 10:9 And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’
Mark 16:17-18 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
Matthew 28:18-20 “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
5. Because God is a good Father
Luke 11:11-13 If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
Doubt is in direct opposition to strong faith. How do we strengthen our faith by overcoming doubts? Adam Barr reveals that the secret to destroying doubt is by knowing the heart of the Father.
Faith has the power to move mountains! But we often fail to tap into the key to ultimate blessing and power. Dana Morey preaches on what faith is, and how we grow in it.
Main Idea: Faith Unlocks God’s Blessings
Mark 10:20-24
20 Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away.”
22 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
Jesus’ Invitation
Jesus grants us access to incredible blessing.
24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
Forgiveness of sin & freedom to thrive
Healing from sickness
Spiritual authority
Protection
Material Provision & Purpose
Gifts, Fruit & Guidance of the Holy Spirit
Friendship with God
Amazing Grace
Jesus’ atonement paid for these blessings, making them available to us by sheer grace!
Essential Faith
We must exercise faith to access these blessings.
Mark 11: 22-23 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God.. whoever says… and does not doubt in his heart… will have whatever he says.”
BONUS SCRIPTURES:
Mark 16:17-18 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
John 14:12-14 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.
John 15:15-16 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
John 16:25-27 In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you; for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God.
FAITH = Revelation + Response
God is looking for people who respond with audacity
Five Faith Killers
1 Focus on the Horizontal
Mark 11:13-14, 20 When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. In response Jesus said to it, “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” And His disciples heard it… 20 Now in the morning…
Matthew 21:19 And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, “Let no fruit grow on you ever again.” Immediately the fig tree withered away.
Mark 11:20 Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.
2 Doubt
Mark 11:23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes
BONUS SCRIPTURE:
James 1:5-7 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven… For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his
"Then He gave the disciples strict orders that they were to tell no one that He was the Christ."
Jesus finishes this passage by telling his disciples not to tell anyone. Why? Because the world would have totally misunderstood what it meant for him to be the messiah. They would have expected a guy to come in and toss out the Romans. He had to show his disciples that his Kingdom was established by laying down his whole life. Only this sacrifice could open the door for us. And only this sacrifice could reveal a power that overcomes even death! Jesus wants the same thing from us. We must lay down our whole lives to step into his eternal life! The church was never meant to be a volunteer organization built around programming planned by professionals. It is meant to be a people movement of transformed hearts who deeply love one another and the world!
BECAUSE THE CHURCH IS A PEOPLE MOVEMENT, WE INVEST IN PEOPLE WHO ARE ALL-IN, NOT BUILDING PROGRAMS TO ENTERTAIN CONSUMERS
The church can’t be stopped, not even by the gates of hell! We’re committed to extending the King’s authority into all of life! We’re overcoming brokenness. We’re living into our identity in Christ. And we’ve been given the Holy Spirit so we can do these things! BECAUSE THE CHURCH IS A PEOPLE-MOVEMENT, GOD HAS EMPOWERED US TO SAVE PEOPLE FROM THE KINGDOM OF DARKNESS. IT’S NOT ENOUGH TO FOCUS ON GETTING PEOPLE TO HEAVEN, WE’RE BEING CALLED TO REDEEM LIVES HERE AND NOW
I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.”
People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Fear of not “knowing enough.” Or having the right answers… not so important. We are organized around a truth-claim: Jesus is Lord! But that truth claim is one that must take on flesh and blood in our lives. Peter’s confession brought out a whole new identity. His loyalty to Jesus opened the door to the indwelling Holy Spirit, which made Peter a vessel God could use. The disciples had grown up in a culture that emphasized following the law. Jesus introduced them to a life of following him.BECAUSE THE CHURCH IS A PEOPLE-MOVEMENT, TRUTH CLAIMS AND CREEDS ARE NOT ENOUGH AND NOT THE ULTIMATE POINT, TRANSFORMED LIVES IN RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS ARE THE POINT
16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter
Many of us grew up with a rhyme, “Here’s the church, here’s the steeple…”What did Jesus have in mind when he said he would build his church? Not a building. Not an institution. Jesus saw an unstoppable people movement, hosting the presence of God and exercising his authority on earth!
How did Jesus model a compassion that unleashed supernatural power?
Luke 7:11-17 (NLT)
11 Soon afterward Jesus went with his disciples to the village of Nain, and a large crowd followed him. 12 A funeral procession was coming out as he approached the village gate. The young man who had died was a widow’s only son, and a large crowd from the village was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion. “Don’t cry!” he said. 14 Then he walked over to the coffin and touched it, and the bearers stopped. “Young man,” he said, “I tell you, get up.” 15 Then the dead boy sat up and began to talk! And Jesus gave him back to his mother.
16 Great fear swept the crowd, and they praised God, saying, “A mighty prophet has risen among us,” and “God has visited his people today.” 17 And the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding countryside.
How did Jesus model breaking free of man-made religion? The new life is not meant to be lived under the yoke of false religiosity. Our traditions and expectations can set limits on our ability to progress. They will also make it impossible for us to build real community.
How did Jesus live free of worry and anxiety, even though he was surrounded by hostility? How did he move from place to place without being concerned about provision? How did he try to get his disciples to see that, as long as they are walking with him, they have nothing to fear?Find out on this week's podcast.
How did Jesus live with relentless courage in the face of imminent suffering? Jesus moved forward through opposition his entire ministry. He faced criticism. He faced doubt. He faced betrayal. He faced the cross. How did he have the courage to persevere?
We experienced some technical difficulties capturing this sermon. We apologize for the poor audio quality.
Main Idea: When God’s people are united and aligned, they change the world.Acts 2:42-44 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common.
Acts 1:14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.
Acts 4:24 And when they heard [the report], they lifted their voices to God with one accord and said, ‘O Lord, it is you who made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all that is in them . . .
Acts 8:6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did.
United By TruthThe Church experiences unity when we align with true teaching.
United by TimeThe Church experiences unity when we make time for each other.
“Radically ordinary hospitality is this: using your Christian home in a daily way that seeks to make strangers neighbors, and neighbors family of God.”
“We introverts miss out on great blessings when we excuse ourselves from practicing hospitality because it exhausts us. I often find people exhausting. But over the years I have learned how to pace myself, how to prepare for the private time necessary to recharge, and how to grow in discomfort. Knowing your personality and your sensitivities does not excuse you from ministry. It means that you need to prepare for it differently than others might.”
― Rosaria Champagne Butterfield, The Gospel Comes with a House Key
Tony Woodall preaches on the power of real community in his own life.
Main Idea: We have to be intentional about pursuing real relationships outside of Sunday morning.
Ephesians 4:1-6 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Proverbs 27:6 Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.
Matthew 3:17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Discussion Questions:
Tony described different groups of people and their experiences with real community. Which group do you fit into? How is God challenging you to grow in this area?
What are the barriers to real community that people seem to have in our society? What are the barriers in your own life?
“We prioritize what matters.” Respond to this statement. How does it apply to community groups? How does it apply in your own life?
Greg Kelly shares how Christ's compassion led him to the mission field, and his experience pursuing Christ.
What does the Bible teach about and what happens when we truly embrace the authority we have been given in Christ?
In this message, Adam Barr reviews how Inheritance has grown in our first six months and where we are going, giving thanks for the fruit of risky faith.