Evergreen Christian Community: Recent Episodes
Jim Ladd
Thanks for checking us out! We are a church based out of Olympia, WA in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. We sincerely hope these messages help you along on your spiritual journey.
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Luke 1:47-50
Colossians 1:9-14
Psalm 16:5-11
People of the WORD
Colossians 1:9-10
Colossians 3:16
Job 23:12
Psalm 40:8
Psalm 119:105
Jeremiah 15:16
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Matthew 4:4
John 17:17
People of the Spirit (Strength)
Colossians 1:11a
Luke 24:49
Acts 1:8
Ephesians 1:19-20
Romans 15:19
People of Gratitude (Thanksgiving)
Colossians 1:11-14
4943e4e0-376b-11f0-923e-3dfce5d2c961
Colossians 1:1-8
FAITH, HOPE, LOVE
Colossians 1:3-5
1 Corinthians 13:13
1 Thessalonians 1:3
1 Thessalonians 5:8
Job 13:15
COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTORS
Colossians 1:6
HOLY SPIRIT LOVE
Colossians 1:7-8
Romans 5:1-5
1 John 4:19
Mark 16
DECLARATION
Mark 16:6
John 11:25
Romans 8:11
WAS – ISN’T – IS
WAS
Galatians 2:20
2 Corinthians 5:17
Colossians 3:3-4
ISN’T
Mark 16:3-5
Romans 6:3-5
Romans 8:38-39
IS – Forever
Mark 16:7
Mark 14:27-29
Mark 14:72
Mark 14:28-29
Mark 15:33-37
Three Things About Life & Death
1- Death is not the end. (Easter is the celebration that death does not win)
2- God has a purpose for our pain.
3- The way you see your life shapes your life.
John 20:19-20
“The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you discover why.” – Mark Twain
Mark 15:15, 21, 39, 43a
They didn’t recognize WHO JESUS WAS
Mark 14:60-64
Ecclesiastes 3:11
They didn’t understand WHAT HE WAS DOING
Mark 14:57-58
Mark 14:29-31
Mark 14:46-50
Mark 14:71-72
Mark 8:35
They didn’t VALUE HIS PRESENCE
Mark 14:1-9
Mark 14:34, 37-41
Mark 13:32-37
- PURPOSE
Mark 13:1-2, 5-8
1 John 4:1
2 Timothy 1:6-7
- PERSEVERANCE
Mark 13:9-13
James 1:2-3 [NIV]
1 Peter 3:15
Matthew 5:3-12 [NIV]
- PROMISE
Mark 13:24-37
Micah 6:8b [NIV]
Romans 13:11
Ephesians 5:15-17
Mark 12:13-44
Question 1: Pharisees — Taxes to Caesar
Mark 12:13-15
Question 2: Sadducees — Divorce + Remarriage in the Resurrection
Mark 12:23-24
Question 3: Teachers of religious law — The most important commandment
Mark 12:28-31
Question 4: Jesus — Whose son is the Messiah
Mark 12:35-37
Psalm 110
Mark 12:38-44
WHO
Mark 10:21-22
Deuteronomy 24:19-21
Exodus 22:22-24
Psalm 68:5
HOW
Mark 12:41 NLT
41 Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts.
Mark 12:41 NASB
41 And Jesus sat down opposite the treasury, and began watching how the people were putting money into the treasury; and many rich people were putting in large amounts.
Mark 12:41 NKJV
41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much.
Mark 12:41 CSB
41 Sitting across from the temple treasury, he watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums.
1 Samuel 16:7
Genesis 4:4-5
Hebrews 11:4,6
Romans 4:16
WHAT
Mark 12:43-44
Change The World, Part 9
March 16, 2025 | Luke Cunningham
Mark 11:8-11
SCENE 1: THE KING
Mark 11:7-14
Jeremiah 8:13
Mark 11:20-21
SCENE 2: THE CASTLE
Mark 11:15-19
Mark 13:1-2
John 2:19
SCENE 3: AUTHORITY
Mark 11:27-28
Mark 12:1-12
Mark 10:47-52
SCENE 1: BLINDNESS OF THE PHARISEES
Mark 10:1-9
SCENE 2: BLINDNESS OF THE DISCIPLES
Mark 9:37
Mark 10:13-16
SCENE 3: BLINDNESS OF THE RICH MAN
Mark 10:17, 21-27
SCENE 4: BLINDNESS OF THE DISCIPLES… AGAIN
Mark 10:32, 35-38, 41-45
SCENE 5: BLINDNESS OF EVERYONE BUT BLIND MAN
Mark 10:47-48, 52
John 9:35-41
Change The World, Part 7
March 2, 2025 | Luke Cunningham
Mark 9:30-39
Challenge #1: Be a servant
Mark 9:34-35
Challenge #2: Welcome EVERYONE in Jesus' name
Mark 9:36-37
James 2:1-9
Challenge #3: Be a cheerleader
Mark 9:38-41
TEACHING
Mark 9:42-50
Mark 9:34-36
Mark 8:16-21, 31-36
DENY - I no longer do whatever I want to do
Mark 9:43-48
Luke 14:33
Colossians 3:5
Galatians 5:24-25
DIE - Who we are
Matthew 10:38
Matthew 16:24
Luke 9:23
Luke 14:26-27
Philippians 3:7-11
Galatians 2:20
Galatians 6:14
DECIDE - Who we become
Joshua 24:15
Revelation 3:15-16
Mark 8:17-21
- Jesus Establishes Provision
Mark 6:30-34
2 Kings 4:42–44
Mark 6:39-52
- Jesus Provides Healing
Mark 7:5-9
James 1:5
Revelation 3:15-16
Matthew 15:23
Mark 7:27-28
Romans 1:16
- Jesus Provides Understanding
Mark 8:1-10
Mark 8:14-19
Matthew 6:25
Mark 9:38-40
Matthew 12:30
Jesus Calms the Storm
Mark 4:38-41
Daniel 7:2-3
Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Man
Mark 5:1-7
Mark 5:15
Mark 5:18-19
Jairus and Woman with Issue of Blood
Mark 5:27-34
OUTSIDERS
Mark 6:4-6
Mark 6:11
Mark 6:18-20
Mark 6:25-26
Mark 3:33-35
Mark 3:7-11
Mark 3:20-22
Mark 3:31-35
Mark 10:28-31
Jesus’ family is NOT based on BLOOD… but it’s based on Blood
John 3:3-4
John 8:31-35
1 John 1:7
Hebrews 10:19
Ephesians 1:7
Jesus’ family is not based on BEHAVIOR… but it’s based on…
Mark 10:18-22
1 John 1:8-9
Ephesians 2:9-10
Philippians 3:5-9
Jesus’ family is not based on BELIEF… but it’s based on…
Mark 3:35
Matthew 7:21
Mark 1:23-24
Mark 1:34
Mark 3:11
James 2:19
John 1:12
Luke 4:18-19
Scene One: Jesus is the Son of Man
Mark 2:5-11
Daniel 7:13-14
Mark 14:61-62
Scene 2: Jesus Sits with Sinners
Mark 2:13-17
Scene 3: Jesus is a new SEASON
Mark 2:18-22
2 Corinthians 5:17
Scene 4: Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath
Mark 2:27-28
Scene 5: Jesus heals on the Sabbath
Mark 3:1-6
Order your copy of The Gospel of Mark to read along and take notes during this sermon season! Pick up in the lobby on Sundays or at Reception during office hours.
https://evergreenmill.square.site/product/the-gospel-of-mark-alabaster-co/363?cs=true&cst=custom
Mark 1:1-8
Jesus is the new creation.
Mark 1:2-3
Jesus is the new deliverer.
Mark 1:5-6
Jesus is new life in a new land.
Mark 1:7-12
Jesus is new power.
Mark 1:14-15
Gospel by Invitation
Mark 1:16-20
Mark 8:34-37
Mark 10:28-31
Gospel by Authority
Mark 1:22-24
Mark 1:27
Gospel by Power
Mark 1:31
Deuteronomy 28:22
Mark 1:40-41
Leviticus 13:45-46
Acts 12:1-5
Acts 12:12
Acts 12:25
Acts 13:5
Acts 13:13
Acts 15:36-40
Mark Didn’t allow failure to define his faith
Colossians 4:10-11
Philemon 23-24
2 Timothy 4:11
Mark didn’t allow failure to stop his journeying
1 Peter 5:13
Mark didn’t allow failure to stop his future
Mark 1:1-2
Mark 16:15
Mark 16:19-20
Joshua 1:1-9
Isaiah 43:18-19
2 Corinthians 5:17
Joshua 1:6
- Be strong and courageous… BE A LEADER
Exodus 32:7-10
Exodus 32:21-25
Judges 2:6-10
Joshua 1:7-8
- Be strong and courageous… OBEY GOD’S WORD
Joshua 1:9
- Be strong and courageous… DON’T LET FEAR AND DISCOURAGEMENT STOP YOU
Isaiah 43:1-3
Romans 15:4
Galatians 5:1
John 10:10
John 21:1-19
- “I’m going fishing.” (v3)
Philippians 3:13-14
- “Do you love me more than these?” (v15)
Matthew 22:37-40
- “Follow me.” (v19)
Hebrews 6:13-20
- HOPE IS AN ANCHOR FOR OUR SOULS
Hebrews 6:19
Psalm 62:5-6
- HOPE GIVES US ACCESS
Hebrews 6:19
Hebrews 10:19-20
Hebrews 7:19
- HOPE GIVES US AN ADVOCATE
Hebrews 6:20 (NLT)
20 Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.
Hebrews 6:20 (ESV)
20 where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.
Revelation 12:1-18
- The WAR on peace has been WON - PEACE IS COMING
Isaiah 9:6-7
- The PERSON of peace has COME - PEACE HAS COME
Luke 2:11-14
- The GIFT of peace has been GIVEN – PEACE LEFT BEHIND
John 14:25-29
Luke 2:8-12
Psalm 105:43
Isaiah 51:11
Joy comes from God
Psalm 4:7-8
Psalm 16:11 (ESV)
Luke 2:10 (ESV)
Philippians 4:4
Philippians 1:12-14, 18
Nehemiah 8:10
Joy is renewed and sustained by the Holy Spirit
Romans 14:17
Romans 15:13
Galatians 5:22
Luke 10:21
Philippians 1:4-6
Joy shines in trials
1 Thessalonians 1:6
Philippians 2:17-18
Colossians 1:24
Romans 5:3-4
Hebrews 12:1-3
2 Corinthians 6:10
1 John 4:7-11
THE SOURCE OF LOVE - We Receive
1 John 4:7-8
1 John 4:16
THE PURPOSE OF LOVE - We Become
1 John 4:9-10
2 Corinthians 5:15
THE MISSION OF LOVE - We Give.
1 John 4:11
1 John 2:10
1 John 3:11
1 John 3:16
1 John 3:18
1 John 3:23
1 John 4:21
Luke 7:47
Isaiah 9:6
Isaiah 7:5-9
Isaiah 7:13-14
Isaiah 8:5-8
Isaiah 8:20-22
Isaiah 9:1-6
- DARKNESS TO LIGHT
Isaiah 9:1-2
Isaiah 42:16
Isaiah 60:1
John 1:5
John 8:12
- REJECTION TO REJOICING
Isaiah 9:3
Isaiah 7:20-23
Isaiah 53:4-6
- SLAVE TO FREE
Isaiah 9:4-5
Isaiah 61:1
Luke 4:16-18
Isaiah 9:6
2 Timothy 4:1-8
Context
• The drink offering was the final part of the sacrifice (Numbers 15:3-10).
• Paul was near the end of his life and this was his final letter.
Hebrews 12:1-2
Big Idea: Hold nothing back; pursue and proclaim Christ!
- Proclaim the Gospel
2 Timothy 3:16-17
- Fulfill Your Ministry
“What the heart most wants the mind finds reasonable, the emotions find valuable, and the will finds doable.” - Timothy Keller
- Don’t hold anything back
Ephesians 3:14-19
RESPONSE
• Keep your eyes on Jesus
• Be bold in talking to others about Jesus
• Get ready for the adventure
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Discipleship is a long obedience in the same direction.
Big Idea: In a world filled with deception and division, God’s Word equips us to live with discernment, integrity, and perseverance in our walk.
2 Timothy 3:10-17
- Stay Grounded in Godly Example
Hebrews 13:7
We are not meant to be the end-users of the gospel but links in a chain of discipleship.
- Expect and Endure Hardship with Purpose
Trials afford us a platform for showing the sufficiency of God’s grace.
Matthew 5:10-12
- Rely on the Power of God’s Word
“The Bible was not given for our information, but for our transformation.”
D.L. Moody
The Bible is not merely to be read, but to be lived.
Psalm 119:105
RESPONSE
• Seek Godly Relationships
• Embrace the Challenge
- Matthew 7:13-14
• Immerse Yourself in Scripture
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
1 Timothy 6:11-21
Big Idea: The Fight is Real and the Cost is Worth it
- Battle Tested - Eternally Worth it
“Fight the good fight” literally means
“agonize the good agony”
2 Timothy 4:7
Romans 8:18
"I would rather be in this wheelchair knowing Jesus than on my feet without him." Joni Eareckson Tada
- God can be Trusted - Riches can not
1 Timothy 6:17
1 Timothy 6:9-10
Proverbs 23:5
- Treasures Exist in Heaven
“We live in a world where we crave material things as well as fame and glory. In the grand scheme of things, these are just superficial wants and there is more to life than just those goals. Life is much bigger than that but the problem is we can be clouded into thinking that those are the only reason to live…” Geek Wisdom
Revelation 21:21
Matthew 6:20
Our time on earth is temporary, but our impact is eternal.
RESPONSE
• The “Agony” of this Life is Worth it!
• God is Trustworthy
• Invest Today for Tomorrow
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
1 Timothy 4:1-5
1 Timothy 4:7-16
Big Idea: In order to live into the example of Christ, we need to train.
The Discipline to Avoid
Proverbs 19:2
Proverbs 3:5-6
The Discipline to Adhere
1 Timothy 4:8
James 1:22
“True prayer should pour out the whole soul and every inward feeling before him.” - John Calvin
The Discipline to Follow Through
John 13:15
Proverbs 4:20-23
RESPONSE
• Be encouraged
1 Timothy 4:16
• Be consistent
Galatians 6:9
• Be Godly
1 Peter 1:15-17
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: Hebrews 13:20-21
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: God calls for leaders who exemplify godly character, manage their households well, and demonstrate faithful service.
1 Timothy 3:1-13
1 Timothy 2:12
2 Peter 3:16
- Godly Character is the Foundation of Leadership
“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” - John C. Maxwell
James 3:1
"A true and safe leader is likely to be one who has no desire to lead but is forced into a position of leadership by the inward pressure of the Holy Spirit and the press of the external situation." - A.W. Tozer
- Leadership Begins at Home
What one generation finds optional, the next generation will find unnecessary.
The home is the training ground for leadership.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
- Faithful Service is Proven in Action
Philippians 2:5-8
“Faithfulness in little things is a big thing.” - St. Augustine
RESPONSE
• God is looking for those who are faithful, not flawless.
- “God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.”
• How you lead at home is far more important than how you will lead anywhere else.
• Your call to leadership is a life calling.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: Matthew 20:25-28
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
1 Timothy 1:3-11
Big Idea: Your perception of truth determines your reaction to it.
- What is it?
1 John 1:6
- What do we do?
2 Timothy 2:14-16
- Why do we do it?
1 Timothy 1:12-17
Titus 3:4-7
RESPONSE
• Be sober minded.
- 1 Peter 5:8
• Live in the truth.
-
John 8:32
-
Galatians 5:22-23
• Prepare yourself for the good work
- 2 Timothy 2:20-21
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: 1 John 4:1, 2 Peter 2:1-3
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Colossians 1:11-14
What do we know about this Kingdom?
- THE KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD
Mark 1:15
John 18:34-35
John 18:36
Mark 10:42-45
- THE KINGDOM IS OUR FIRST PURSUIT
Matthew 6:10
Matthew 6:31-34
- THE KINGDOM CHANGES HOW I BEHAVE
Matthew 4:23
Matthew 5:3-11
Nehemiah 13:6-9
Nehemiah 13:15-22
Context
-
The thirty-second year of Artaxerxes would have been around 433 BC and this is when Nehemiah returned to Persia and was there for some time before he requested he visit Jerusalem. His return visit was around 430 or 429 BC, and he tells us what he found in Jerusalem (vv 6-7).
-
Tobiah and Eliashib were somehow connected (perhaps related through a marriage). Tobiah was fiercely against the work of the wall (Neh 2:10).
-
Nehemiah reminded everyone the definition of not working included:
• treading wine
• loading
• transporting
• selling grain, grapes, or figs
• buying goods from foreigners.
Big idea last week: We find freedom from conformity through our surrender to transformation.
Big Idea: Surrender to transformation begins with divesting from the things that entangle us and resting in God.
- Divest from the things that entangle you
Hebrews 12:1-2
- Rest in God
Psalm 91:1
Psalm 37:7
Matthew 11:28-30
Response:
• Clear out the things in your life that hinder you from fully surrendering to Jesus and becoming more like Him.
• Find time daily to rest and spend time with God.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: Psalm 2
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Nehemiah 12:27-30
Big Idea: We find freedom from conformity through our surrender to transformation.
- The Humility To Remember Where We Come From
2 Chronicles 36:15-19
Nehemiah 13:17-18
-
The Humility To Be Honest With Where We Are Currently At
-
The Humility To Accept What We Are Called To
1 John 2: 6
Philippians 2:5-8
Response:
• Remember where you come from
• Acknowledge where you’re at
• Empty yourself
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: 1 John 2:15-17
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Nehemiah 6:15
Nehemiah 8
Big Idea: Pursuing and Celebrating the Right Thing Brings Fulfillment.
Spiritual Renewal - Hunger for God is greater than our hunger for the things of the world
- Temporarily Satisfied - Spiritually Lacking
It doesn’t matter how well rounded you are,
If it’s at the expense of being well grounded
Mark 8:36
- Attentiveness Required - Response Voluntary
Nehemiah 8:3
Nehemiah 8:6
When we allow the Spirit of God
to work through the Word of God
Spiritual Renewal takes place.
- Celebration Encouraged
John 7:37-38
Isaiah 44:3
Response:
• Are you building/pursuing the right thing?
• Enjoy the Book - The Living Word
• Celebrate God & Your Standing with Him
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: 1 Corinthians 10:11-13
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Nehemiah 5:1-19
Big Idea: Generosity is an outward expression of our love for God and others.
Context
-
Hunger
-
Famine
-
Taxes
-
Slavery
-
Lending money with interest under these conditions was wrong
Exodus 22:25-27
Deuteronomy 23:19-20
- Generosity should be a mark of His people
Credit Card Debt (per person) by generation:
Generation Z
$3,262
Millennials
$6,521
Generation X
$9,123
Baby Boomers
$6,642
Silent Generation
$3,412
- Trust God with your finances
Deuteronomy 8:16-18
Psalm 116:5
Psalm 130:3
1 Corinthians 16:1-2
- Live a life of Generosity
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“The dot represents this life - a mere blip on the screen in terms of eternity. The solid line represents the expanse of eternity. Life on this earth is a tiny slice of the eternal existence of Christ’s Kingdom. The immediacy of our lives, complicated greatly by our sinful tendency to look out for our interests above all others, causes us to put far too many resources in the dot (the matters of this world) and fewer investments in the line (the eternal kingdom).” - R. Mark Dillion
God is generous, be like Him
Ephesians 2:4-9
Response:
• Reflect and repent of ways that hold you back from living a generous life.
- “Pilgrims travel light.” - Randy Alcorn
• Ask God how you can become generous like Him. This will grow your love for Him and others.
• Be a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7: "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: Psalm 34:1-8
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
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What stands out to you?
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What does this passage tell us about people?
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What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Nehemiah 4:15-23
Big Idea: Spiritual warfare is prevalent, but we’ve been equipped to prevail.
- Be all in
Nehemiah 4:23
Romans 8:12-14
"The devil is a better theologian than any of us and is a devil still." A.W. Tozer
Ephesians 6:10-12
- Armor up
James 4:7
- Work with your weapons
Nehemiah 4:17
RESPONSE
• Kill the flesh
• Speak the Name
• Lean into community
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Nehemiah 4:19-20
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Proverbs 24:6
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Matthew 4:4
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passages: Psalm 199:11, Acts 19:13-16
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
John 3:1-15
Big Idea: How do you SATISFY the curiosity of your soul?
- New Birth
John 3:3
- New Spirit
John 3:5-8
- New Life
John 3:12-15
John 7:50-52
John 19:38-39
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Nehemiah 3:1-5
Big Idea: The restorative work of God in our lives begins with acknowledging we are broken.
- Fortify the Gates
“He who thinks he leads, but has no followers, is only taking a walk” - John C. Maxwell
The devil is on the hunt for the weakest part of your wall
1 Peter 5:8-9
"Confession is not a weakness. It shows the power of grace in breaking down the walls of pride." - Jerry Bridges
Matthew 4:1-4
Matthew 3:17
- Closed for Repairs
2 Corinthians 4:16
Philippians 2:12-13
- Unity in Building
Opposition doesn’t just come from “enemies”.
"Satan always hates Christian fellowship; it is his policy to keep Christians apart. Anything which can divide saints from one another he delights in. He attaches far more importance to godly intercourse than we do. Since union is strength, he does his best to promote separation."
- Charles Spurgeon
RESPONSE
• Ask God to reveal your weakness.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-11
• Make availability for ongoing work to be done.
• Leave no room for complacency.
"Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. But presently, He starts knocking the house about in a way that hurts abominably and does not seem to make sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of—throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace."
- C.S. Lewis (Mere Christianity)
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Isaiah 58:9-12
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Nehemiah 2:1-20
Big Idea: Have the courage to believe what only God can do.
- The Courage to Ask
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
Ezra 4:19-21
Nehemiah 1:11
- The Courage to Be Honest With Reality
“This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never—in nothing, great or small, large or petty—never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” - Winston Churchill
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The Courage to Know You Cannot Do It Alone
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The Courage to Trust in God
Psalm 56:3-4
Psalm 31:24
RESPONSE:
• Have the courage to trust in God
• Have the courage to ask
• Have the courage to be honest
• Have to courage to not work alone
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Joshua 1:1-9
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Series Theme: We Rise and Build as we Fall on our Knees and Pray
James 4:10
Big Idea: God WANTS to be the Hero in your story.
Overview of the Books of Ezra & Nehemiah:
Ezra 1-6 Ezra 7-10 Nehemiah 1-7 Nehemiah 8-13
Zerubbabel Ezra Nehemiah
Temple Torah/Law Walls Spiritual Renewal
King Cyrus King Artaxerxes King Artaxerxes
Nehemiah 1:1-11
It’s easy to make Nehemiah the hero
He should be commended
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He asks about His people
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He is not self-absorbed
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He leads the rebuilding of the Wall in 52 days
BUT REALLY God is the Hero
- God can work through you
1 Samuel 16:7
God Uses the Available and Actionable
Colossians 3:17
- God can work in and through your despair
Nehemiah 1:4
Prayer needs to be our Reflex Response
Our First Response - Not Our Last Resort
Nehemiah 1:6
Confession - “homologeo”
‘To speak’ & ‘The same’
Confession is agreeing with God
Zechariah 2:3-5
- God can be trusted
Jeremiah 17:7-8
• To keep His promises
• To watch over His people
• To forgive a repentant and humble heart
RESPONSE
• Don’t Live in Despair
• Lean into God with all your Challenges
• Trust God to Guide You and Work through You
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: 1 Kings 19:1-18; 1 Kings 18:4
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Mark 2:1-12
Big Idea: Individuals in your traffic pattern depend on you to introduce them to Jesus.
Context
• There was an understanding that sickness was caused by sin.
John 9:1-3
• Jesus preached the word
Mark 1:14–15
Who are you in the story?
- The Crowd
“Stop trying to change non-believers’ behaviors towards your morals” - Pastor Ryan “New Dad” O’Neill
- The Faithful
1 Corinthians 12:12–14
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The Broken
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The Savior
“Jesus does not say, ‘See what you did to me,’ but ‘See what I did for you.’ His wounds are letters of love to you written by the finger of God. They are the Gospels no Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John could ever write. Read them and rejoice, for they are the scars of your salvation, your letter of pardon, trophies of heaven’s victory.” - Chad Bird
Response
• Remember who you were before Jesus.
• Be willing to be uncomfortable
- God conversations that lead to Gospel conversations
• Believe that God can:
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Heal
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Change hearts and lives
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Forgive
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Use you, RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE, to glorify Him and make Him known
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Acts 9:1-6
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Where you call home matters.
1 Peter 2:11
Jeremiah 29:4-14
Big Idea: Your community is a gift from God, treat it as such.
- Pray for the Transformation of your Community
Jeremiah 29:7
You can love where you live, but can you love where you left?
Matthew 5:43-44
- Embrace God's Truth
Jeremiah 29:8-9
What grounds you, grows you.
“A Bible that's falling apart usually belongs to a person that isn't.” - Charles Spurgeon
Ephesians 4:14-15
- Trust that God's in Control
Jeremiah 29:11
“There is no panic in Heaven! God has no problems, only plans.” - Corrie Ten Boom
John 17:14-15
RESPONSE
Look to what God is calling you TO, not what you desire to move FROM.
• Is your hope in God, or what He can provide?
• What grounds you?
- Where do you experience disappointment?
• Seek purpose in your position.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: John 17:15-23
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Esther 4:12-16
Big Idea: You have a “such a time as this” role in your community.
- Don’t ignore/suppress reality
If you are not moved by anything
You are most likely distracted by everything
Luke 4:18
- Find Strength in the Lord
Isaiah 40:31
- Pursue the Wisdom & Favor from the Lord
2 Chronicles 20:12
Isaiah 58:6-8
Proverbs 19:2
James 1:5
- Do something!
Esther 4:16
RESPONSE
• Acknowledge your own “such a time as this”
• Pray to be moved by the needs of others - spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, etc.
• Ask God what steps to take - Expect an answer
• Just Do IT! - Be obedient
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Esther 6
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: The church pursues full purpose when it extends past its property.
Luke 19:1-10
- See
Mark 12:29-31
- Seek
Romans 10:14-15
- Sacrifice
1 John 2:6
- Save
Acts 4:12
Romans 10:13
RESPONSE
• Know Your Why
- Ephesians 5:15-17 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
• Be Bold
- Ephesians 6:19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
• Tell Your Story
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Luke 15:3-7
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: God has a mission for us
Matthew 28:16-20
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The discipleship journey starts with the Gospel
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God asks us to join Him on this mission
2 Corinthians 5:18-21
- We make disciples when we live out the G.O. principle
G - Intimacy with God
O - Investing in others
Mark 5:19
Matthew 5:14-16
A - Admit
B - Believe
C - Choose
Response
• Look for people in your traffic pattern who are far from God
• Pray for opportunities to have God conversations and Gospel conversations
• Live in community and grow as disciples
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Acts 2:42-47
You that are members of the church have not found it perfect and I hope that you feel almost glad that you have not. If I had never joined a Church till I had found one that was perfect, I should never have joined one at all! And the moment I did join it, if I had found one, I should have spoiled it, for it would not have been a perfect Church after I had become a member of it. Still, imperfect as it is, it is the dearest place on earth to us. - C. H. Spurgeon
Big Idea: The closest we get to “on earth as it is in Heaven” is when His people are dedicated to His Word and each other.
- The Church is where God Transforms us
• All People - Nothing matters more to God than people.
• Process - Transformation is not a one-time event.
• Authentically Safe Community - A safe place to process the dangerous gospel of Jesus Christ.
• Audacious Humility - Confidence in God's desire and ability to use us powerfully in spite of our brokenness.
• Health - We believe "healthy" is the most important adjective and should accurately describe every facet of our lives and relationships.
- The Church involves you and is not all about you
“God hates visionary dreaming; it makes the dreamer proud and pretentious. The man who fashions a visionary ideal of community demands that it be realized by God, by others, and by himself. He enters the community of Christians with his demands, sets up his own law, and judges the brethren and God himself accordingly. He stands adamant, a living reproach to all others in the circle of brethren. He acts as if he is the creator of the Christian community, as if his dream binds men together. When things do not go his way, he calls the effort a failure. When his ideal picture is destroyed, he sees the community going to smash. So, he becomes, first an accuser of his brethren, then an accuser of God, and finally the despairing accuser of himself.” - D. Bonhoeffer
- The Church should be attractive
Response:
• Dedicate yourself to God’s Word, Prayer, and awe of Him
• Pursue developing healthy relationships with one another
• Live out of the overflow of God’s grace and love for you
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Romans 14:8-12
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
“The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians: who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, walk out the door, and deny Him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.” - Brennan Manning
What cancer is to the body, hypocrisy is to the church.
Big Idea: Living authentically means committing to transparency that reflects God's truth and love.
Romans 2:1-16
- Love the sinner, Hate YOUR sin
Romans 2:1
Matthew 23:3-4
Matthew 23:13
“Of all bad men, religious bad men are the worst.” - C.S. Lewis
1 Corinthians 13:1-3
- You’re a terrible judge!
Romans 2:2
John 7:24
- Live Transparently
Romans 2:16
Luke 12:1-3
“We cannot pray in love and live in hate and still think we are worshiping God.” - A.W. Tozer
Response:
• Search your own heart.
• Pursue Jesus, not better behavior.
• Embrace Truth.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: The Church: Ordained by God, messed up by man, still God’s plan.
Matthew 16:13-18
1 - The Church is different from any other organization or organism.
The Church originated with Christ.
"Church" comes from the word "ekklesia" meaning “Called out ones”
Christ is The Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22)
Christ is Head of the Church (Colossians 1:18)
The Church has both eternal & present purposes
Matthew 28:19-20
Acts 2:42-45
2 - The Church has its flaws and it is YOU and ME
The Church is divinely ordained & humanly flawed
3 - God calls us to ALL PLAY
• Fight the urge to be selfish and only consume
• Fight the urge to be safe and hold back
“There is no safe investment. To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket – safe, dark, motionless, airless – it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. The alternative to tragedy, or at least to the risk of tragedy, is damnation. The only place outside Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers and perturbations of love is Hell.” -C.S. Lewis
“Satan always hates Christian fellowship; it is his policy to keep Christians apart. Anything which can divide saints from one another he delights in. He attaches far more importance to godly intercourse than we do. Since union is strength, he does his best to promote separation.” - Charles Spurgeon
Response:
• Thank God for The Church
• Be open to healing throughout this series
• Be open to play your role in The Church
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Hebrews 2:11-22
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Lamentations 5
Big Idea: As anointed people, we still fall to the pitfalls of sin.
- Anointed, and still afflicted
Lamentations 4:20
Psalm 20:6
Psalm 28:8
1 John 2:20
Romans 8:11
2 Corinthians 1:21-22
- History repeats, His story redeems
Lamentations 5:19-22
Proverbs 26:11
Proverbs 16:6
- Hidden hope
John 10:28
John 5:24
2 Chronicles 7:14
Lamentations 3:22-26
Psalm 30:5
Response:
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Live into your anointing
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Live into the proper body
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Live into hope
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
BIG IDEA: No matter our circumstances, we can, in Christ, live with hope
Lamentations 3:25-33, 40-42
- God wants us to Live with Hope in Him
Psalm 130:1-2
Depths without hope can lead to despair
Depths with Jesus can lead to hope
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Life is:
Never so good - it couldn’t be better
Never so bad - it couldn’t be worse
3 Quick Steps to Help Nurture Hope
• Reflect on the goodness of God
• Limit your junk food intake
• IV yourself with the promises of God
- God wants us to seek Him with purpose
May require admittance of guilt & repentance
Psalm 139:23-24
May require some Spiritual Disciplines
- God wants us to Worship with Passion (v41)
Lamentations 3:22-23
Response:
• Know that where Jesus is, there is hope.
• Commit to a lifestyle of Worship.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Lamentations 3:22-26
Big Idea: Through honest lament and unwavering trust, we find hope in the midst of suffering.
The pain and suffering of the individual does not go unnoticed by God.
- Acknowledge Your Pain
Lamentations 3:1-3
Lamentations 3:17-18
- Talk Yourself into It
Lamentations 3:21
Jeremiah 17:9-10
We move in the direction of our predominant thoughts.
Lamentations 3:22-23
"Great is Your faithfulness" was a declaration not based on what he felt; it was based on what he knew.
"Ten thousand mercies are forgotten in the presence of a single trifling moment." - C. H. Mackintosh
- Cultivate a Willingness to Wait
Lamentations 3:24-26
There are three answers to prayer God always gives: Yes, No, Not Yet.
Response:
• Do not disassociate from lament.
• Hold fast to the truth.
• Wait upon the Lord.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Study passage: 1 Peter 5:10-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: God’s judgment of sin becomes the seedbed of our hope.
Lamentations 2:10-19
- Sin has consequences
2 Kings 21:1-2, 9
Romans 6:23
- Do not be led astray
Jeremiah 14:13-14
Galatians 5:19-21
- Be broken for the broken
Lamentations 2:11-13
- Pour yourself out to God and change your mind
Romans 7:21-25
Romans 8:1-2
Lamentations 3:22-26
Response
• Confess your sin to God and resolve to walk in new life with Jesus
• Receive God’s love and forgiveness
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Study passage: Psalm 63:1–5
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: Lament Introduces Purpose out of Pain.
- WHAT’S HAPPENING?
Lamentations 1:1-11
Hebrews 5:7
- WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
Colossians 3:17
“We live in a world that is beyond our control, and life is in a constant flux of change. So we have a decision to make: keep trying to control a storm that is not going to go away or start learning how to live within the rain.” - Glenn Pemberton, Hurting with God
James 1:2
Psalm 88:1-2
- GOD PROMISES, AND GOD REDEEMS
Jeremiah 7:3-11
Jeremiah 6:10
Genesis 3:15
Response:
• There is participation in the pain.
• Hold on to hope
• Find compassion in the constant God
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
If you don’t first live in God’s revealed will, then you can't possibly hope to understand His concealed will.
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
Big Idea: God’s will cannot be discovered by seeking IT, it unfolds as you seek HIM.
Fix Your Eyes Forward
Galatians 5:1
Live for the name on the front
"Play for the name on the front of the shirt and they will remember the name on the back." - Tony Adams
Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 16:3
Be Reconciled
Psalms 37:4
“Love God and do whatever you please: for the soul trained in love to God will do nothing to offend the One who is Beloved.” - Augustine of Hippo
Colossians 3:17
If God has put a desire in your heart, and it can be done in the name of Jesus Christ then do it!
Response:
• Freedom is found in God’s will for your life.
• Get your eyes off of you, and on to Jesus.
• Chase what God desires.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Matthew 6:33
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 11:33-36
Big Idea: We discern God’s will when we submit our whole being before Him as an offering.
Romans 12
Be a people of love and mercy
Romans 12:
• “Let love be genuine” (v 9)
• “Contribute to the needs of the saints” (v 13)
• “Bless those who persecute you” (v 14)
• “Weep with those who weep” (v 15)
• “Associate with the lowly” (v 16)
• “Repay no one evil for evil” (v 17)
• “Never avenge yourselves” (v 19)
• “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink” (v 20)
Give all of yourself to God
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Romans 6:13-14
Hebrews 13:15-16
Be Transformed
1 John 2:15-17
“Satan devotes 168 hours a week trying to deceive you. Do you think you can maintain a renewed mind with a ten-minute glance at God’s book once a day?” - John Piper
Response:
What is in your life that you need to leave behind when you walk out of here today?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Passage: Psalms 1:1-6
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
John 20:1-18
Big Idea: Redemption began and is fulfilled in the Garden.
John 20:30-31
Angels and the Entrance
John 20:11-12
Genesis 3:23-24
John 20:1
"The tomb that sealed the body of Jesus became the womb of our salvation." -Max Lucado
Face-to-face with the Gardener
John 20:15
Genesis 3:8-9
Genesis 2:22-23
"Easter tells us that every ending is a new beginning." - Anne Graham Lotz
Folded and Finished
John 20:6-7
Hebrews 1:8-12
"The story of Easter is the story of God’s wonderful window of divine surprise." - Philip Yancey
John 20:16-18
1 Corinthians 15:20-22
“The resurrection completes the inauguration of God’s kingdom. . . . It is the decisive event demonstrating that God’s kingdom really has been launched on earth as it is in heaven. The message of Easter is that God’s new world has been unveiled in Jesus Christ and that you’re now invited to belong to it.” - N.T. Wright
Response:
• Your story is redeemable.
• Live in the finished work of Christ.
• Baptism - connection to the empty grave.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:12-28
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: God’s great plan for salvation provokes a response in all of us.
Triumphal Entry
Matthew 21:1-11
The Temple
Ezekiel 10:18-19
Ezekiel 43:1-5
Messiah from the line of David
1 Kings 1:32-35
2 Samuel 7:11-13
Zechariah 9:9
Palm Branches (Independence)
John 12:12-15
Hosanna (Save, we pray)
Matthew 21:9
Psalm 118:22-26
Who are you becoming in this story?
Religious Leaders
Matthew 23:1-7
“We tend to draw conservative, buttoned-down, moralistic people. The licentious and liberated or the broken and marginal avoid church. That can only mean one thing. If the preaching of our ministers and the practice of our parishioners do not have the same effect on people that Jesus had, then we must not be declaring the same message that Jesus did.” - Tim Keller
The Crowd
John 6:60,66
Jesus People
Galatians 5:22-26
Response:
Choose to follow Jesus
Slow down and journey with Christ during Holy Week:
• Holy Monday: Jesus clears the Temple.
Matthew 21:12, Mark 11:15-19, Luke 19:45-48, and John 2:13-17
• Holy Tuesday: Jesus goes to the Mount of Olives.
Matthew 21:23–24:51, Mark 11:20–13:37, Luke 20:1–21:36, and John 12:20–38
• Holy Wednesday: Judas Iscariot plots to betray Jesus.
Matthew 26:12-16, Mark 14:10-12, Luke 22:3-6
• Maundy Thursday: The Last Supper, Jesus washes his disciples' feet, and Gethsemane.
Luke 22:7-22; John 13:1-17, 34; John 17; Matthew 26:36-46.
• Good Friday: The crucifixion of Jesus
Matthew 27:1-61; Mark 15:1–47; Luke 23:1–56; John 18:28–19:42. (Good Friday Gathering at 6:30 PM)
• Holy Saturday: A time for personal reflection/ Guards posted to the tomb.
Matthew 27:62-66.
• Easter: He is Risen!
Matthew 28:1–20; Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–53; John 20:1–21:25. (Gathering Times: 9:00, 10:45, 12:30)
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Galatians 5:13-26
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Philippians 4:4-13
Big Idea: Life carries worry, but Jesus carries peace.
- Worry Won’t Win
Philippians 4:4-7
“You cannot stop the birds from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building a nest in your hair” - Martin Luther
Jeremiah 23:23-24
Proverbs 4:23
Matthew 22:37-40
- Invest in the Whatevers
Philippians 4:8-9
Psalm 139:23-24
Matthew 28:19-20
- God Doesn’t Like Secrets
Philippians 4:10-13
Matthew 19:26
Romans 8:31
2 Timothy 2:20-21
Response:
• Trust the Lord to grant peace in place of fear.
• Put the ‘whatevers’ to action
• Choose contentment
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: We find joy in Christ as we grow in spiritual maturity
Philippians 3:15-4:1
Growth in Christ is a natural part of our maturity
Philippians 3:9-14
1 Corinthians 13:9–11
Our model at Evergreen for growth:
• Powerful Worship Gatherings
• Purposeful Relationships
• Spiritual Disciplines
• Meaningful Service
"I think if you had asked Jesus about His spiritual life, He would have looked at you very confused. My guess is He would have asked, “What do you mean by my spiritual life? All of my life is spiritual.” Jesus didn’t buy into sacred/secular thinking. To Him, life is a seamless, integrated, holistic experience where the sacred is all around us. And because everything is spiritual, everything matters to God." - John Mark Comer
Have a heart for the lost
Romans 3:10-12
“If sinners will be damned, at least let them leap to hell over our bodies. And if they will perish, let them perish with our arms about their knees, imploring them to stay. If hell must be filled, at least let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go there unwarned and unprayed for.” - C.H. Spurgeon
Remember where you belong
Jude 1:20-22
Response:
• Commit yourself to your spiritual growth
• Have God conversations with those around you and pray they turn into Gospel conversations.
• Live for Heaven!
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Psalm 53:1-6
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Philippians 3:1-14
Big Idea: In pursuit of Christ, abandon false confidence and press on toward the prize of knowing Jesus.
- “Beware of Dog”
Philippians 3:2
Romans 2:28-29
Reality with God is not a matter of outward conformity to religious rituals, but rather of obedience that results from God changing your heart.
- Everything, to nothing, back to everything
Philippians 3:8
Philippians 3:4-6
Matthew 13:44-46
99% obedience is still disobedience. Christ calls us to give up EVERYTHING in pursuit of Him.
Matthew 16:26
- Pressing Toward the Goal
Philippians 3:13-14
“The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me.'" - Billy Graham
Response:
• Renew Commitment: Forsake false confidence and place full trust in Christ alone.
• Seek Intimacy: Strive to deepen your relationship with Christ.
• Press On: With faith and perseverance, press forward toward the goal, leaving behind distractions and focusing on the prize of knowing Jesus.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Psalm 133:1-3
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Philippians 2:1-18
Big Idea: Joy is lived out as we imitate Christ
How is joy lived out?
1 - Pursue unity in the Body
Strife - squelches the anointing
Unity - promotes the anointing
Our behaviors are driven by our attitudes.
2 - Having the mindset of Christ
Philippians 2:10-11
3 - Do everything without grumbling
Numbers 11:1
4 - Choose to rejoice
Philippians 2:17-18
Response:
• Make things right
• Center your life on Christ
• Embrace & choose Joy
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
“Reacting is an instinctive, emotional response to a situation. It's often impulsive and can be influenced by our past experiences or fears. On the other hand, responding is a thoughtful and deliberate action. It involves considering the situation, weighing the options, and making a conscious decision.” - Laura Noel
Philippians 1:12-18
Big Idea: The Gospel turns victims into victors.
• See Adversity as Opportunity
Philippians 1:12-14
"Every experience God gives us, every person He puts into our lives, is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see." - Corrie ten Boom
James 1:2-3
The world is not against you, it’s against everyone! And the Gospel is for everyone.
• Correct Your Lens
Philippians 1:15-18
“The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached.”
• Live on Purpose
Philippians 1:27
"A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble." - Charles Spurgeon
1 Corinthians 15:58
"The best use of life is to invest in something that will outlast it." - Rick Warren
Response:
• God wants us to see the chains of this world as a catalyst for the Gospel.
• Recognize the movement of God and be ready to join in.
• The world needs you to live in victory.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Study passages: Ephesians 1:1-3
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Philippians 1:3-11
Big Idea: Joy is offered in the present, because of the righteousness of Jesus Christ.
- Fellowship Over Friendship
2 Corinthians 6:14-16
2 Corinthians 12:9
James 1:2-3
- Joining in Spreading the Gospel
Psalm 96:3
Mark 16:15
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.” -St. Francis Assisi
Psalm 73:26
- Through Daily Holy Spirit Influence
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Romans 8:9
Response:
• Get Connected.
• Partner with the Holy Spirit.
• Accept Joy.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Study passages: Ephesians 1:1-2; Acts 16
“Surely we serve a good Master, who makes peace and joy so essential to our religion.” -Matthew Henry
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Acts 8:1-4
Galatians 1:13-14
Philippians 3:4-6
Big Idea: A relationship with Jesus is the greatest treasure you will ever find
Acts 9:1-19
Religion is always inferior compared to a relationship with Jesus
2 Corinthians 2:4-7
Jesus is our treasure
2 Timothy 4:6-8
Response
• Let go of the things that hold you back from pursuing Jesus
• Seek Jesus as your greatest treasure
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus Devotional:
Looking for a scripture reading plan for the year, or hoping to add a devotional to your routine? We will be going through the Upside Down Kingdom series as an exploration of our theme for the year! If you’d like to join us, visit evergreenpnw.com/teaching to get started.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Acts 6:1-6
Acts 6:8-10
Acts 7:54-60
Big Idea: Keeping our Eyes on Jesus allows us to live a Spirit-filled life that is impossible on our own.
• The Spirit’s filling makes the ordinary extraordinary
Acts 7:54-56
Hebrews 12:2-3
• The Spirit’s filling makes a profound impact on those around you
Acts 7:57-58
Acts 8:1
1 Timothy 1:13-14
"Our faithfulness is a living sermon, a testimony that speaks louder than words, influencing hearts in ways we may never fully comprehend." - Elisabeth Elliot
• The Spirit’s filling allows you to forgive like Christ
Acts 7:59-60
Colossians 3:13
Matthew 5:44
Response:
• The impact on those around you may not be realized in your lifetime.
• In life’s most painful moments, allow your response to mirror Jesus.
• Forgiveness is not just what we do, it’s who we are.
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus Devotional:
Looking for a scripture reading plan for the year, or hoping to add a devotional to your routine? We will be going through the Upside Down Kingdom series as an exploration of our theme for the year! If you’d like to join us, visit evergreenpnw.com/teaching to get started.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Passage: Hebrews 12:1-3
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 1:26-38
• Luke is setting an Old Testament theme in chapter one
• Gabriel is a long-awaited messenger
• No word from God will ever fail!
• Mary is the Lord’s Servant
Big Idea: Grace changes the focus from ourselves to Jesus
God’s Gift is not given on our own merit
Ephesians 2:8
Understanding the cost of grace should move us to worship
Luke 1:46-55
God’s Grace invites us to participate in what He is already doing
John 2:1-5
Response
• Receive His Grace
• Worship
Luke 2:19 "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."
• Participate in what He is doing
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus Devotional:
Looking for a scripture reading plan for the year, or hoping to add a devotional to your routine? We will be going through the Upside Down Kingdom series as an exploration of our theme for the year! If you’d like to join us, visit evergreenpnw.com/teaching to get started.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Passage: Ephesians 2:1-9
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
John 14:1-7
Big Idea: The Way is revealed to us as we keep our eyes on Jesus
- Keeping your eyes on Jesus means curious questioning
“The reflective Christian is one who questions what she believes while continuing to believe what she is questioning” - Roger Olsen
James 1:5-6
John 15:7
- Keeping your eyes on Jesus means communicating with your ears open.
Romans 10:17
Ephesians 5:15-17
- Keeping your eyes on Jesus means being involved in community
Hebrews 10:24-25
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." - MLK Jr.
Response:
• Jesus is the Way.
• Jesus meets us where we’re at.
• What Christ has revealed is meant to be reproduced.
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus Devotional:
Looking for a scripture reading plan for the year, or hoping to add a devotional to your routine? We will be going through the Upside Down Kingdom series as an exploration of our theme for the year! If you’d like to join us, visit evergreenpnw.com/teaching to get started.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Passages: John 14 1-14; Jeremiah 29:11; Acts 4:12
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Hebrews 12:1-2
John 21:1-19
Big Idea: Keep your eyes on Jesus, the one who has redeemed you.
Context
• Peter once again got out of the boat to meet Jesus
• Peter’s denial is recorded in all four gospels (ouch).
• Jesus performed miracles, provided for his people, served, and restored.
• The three questions about Peter’s love for Jesus are certainly tied to Peter’s three denials.
Jesus loves you just as you are AND loves you too much to leave you that way
1 Peter 1:18-21
Our obedience to Jesus is the overflow of a heart and life focused on Him
Matthew 22:37
“There are many of us that are willing to do great things for the Lord, but few of us are willing to do little things.” - D.L. Moody
Response
• Allow time in your day to focus on Jesus, and allow him to confront you with the truth about your life. (He loves you just as you are AND loves you too much to leave you that way).
• LOVE your Oikos
• Commit this year to keeping your eyes on Jesus
“I am no longer my own, but thine.
Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt.
Put me to doing, put me to suffering.
Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee,
exalted for thee or brought low for thee.
Let me be full, let me be empty.
Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
I freely and heartily yield all things
to thy pleasure and disposal.
And now, O glorious and blessed God,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it.
And the covenant which I have made on earth,
let it be ratified in heaven. Amen."
- John Wesley Covenant Prayer
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's passage: Hebrews 12:1-2
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Psalm 77:11-14
Big Idea: Remembering what God has done positions us for faith for the future.
- Extravagant Blessing: The Lord has blessed us
Joshua 4:1-7
We remember that God blesses people, He has blessed us, and we are able to pay that blessing forward.
- Deliverance: The Lord has bought us, rescued us, and delivered us
1 Samuel 7:5-12
- Testimony: The Power When We Share God’s Transformational Power
Revelation 12:11
Response:
• Gratitude: Stop and give thanks for what God has done FOR you and THROUGH you
• Establish: create YOUR marker of remembrance
• Step Out: Ask God to direct you for the year ahead–serving, giving, partnering
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
John 1:9-1
Isaiah 7:14
Big Idea: Emmanuel, God With Us, ultimately has come for our transformation.
- Jesus is with you
Emmanuel - “God with us”
Matthew 1:20-23
We are never alone. We are never stranded. We are never abandoned.
- Jesus understands
Hebrews 4:14-16
Embrace God’s kindness. Receive His grace. God knows you…and still loves you.
- Jesus Changes Everything
John 1:12-13
Jesus came…to change you, change me, and give us the freedom to experience real, pure, unconditional love.
Let Jesus into your life. Embrace the conviction of the Holy Spirit and allow Jesus to change your life…today.
RESPONSE:
Find a moment and meditate on Emmanuel: God is with you, Jesus understands you, and He is here to save, change, and heal you.
Additional Verses:
Deuteronomy 31:6
Deuteronomy 31:8
Joshua 1:5
Joshua 1:9
1 Chronicles 28:20
Psalm 94:14
Isaiah 41:10
Matthew 28:19-20
Psalm 27:10
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: Jesus is the hope of the world.
Luke 2:4-7
Luke presents Jesus as the savior of the world.
Jesus came for the oppressed and outcast.
Luke 4:14-20
Response
• Look: Look at the manger and see that Jesus came for the world
• See: See that you are deserving of His love
• Open: Open your heart to the hope of Jesus
• Share: Share the hope of Jesus with those around you
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's verse: Isaiah 15:1-10
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
“It is a remarkable fact that, among the variations in the order in which the Gospels appear in early lists and texts, the one constant factor is that Matthew always comes first.” - R. T. France
Matthew's gospel contains more references to the Old Testament than any other biography of Jesus with a laser-focus on one key theme: Jesus is King.
Matthew 2:1-12
Big Idea: Knowing Jesus' Identity as King allows us to recognize Him in our lives.
• Magi as “King Makers”
Daniel 2:48
Matthew 2:1-2
“Though many kings of the Jews had been born and died, none of them did the Magi seek to adore.” - Saint Augustine
Matthew 2:3
Matthew 2:11
• Recognizing the Shepherd King
John 1:11
1 Samuel 8:6-7
Ezekiel 37:24
2 Samuel 5:2
Prophets called out other kings for not being shepherds.
Nahum 3:18
• Jesus as the Shepherd-King
Psalm 23
A shepherd implies the authority to lead and the strength to protect.
John 10:11
Luke 15:1-7
Response:
• Recognize Jesus for the King He is, instead of the King you want him to be.
• Put your faith in the Good Shepherd.
• Live in such a way that your Oikos can see you following Jesus.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's verse: Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Mark 1:1-8
Big Idea: The Good news comes in the unlikeliest places.
Good News
Hebrew:
Bisser [bi-sair]. Verb—good news
Besorah. Noun—the good news given
Greek:
Euangelion— Eu (good) and angelion (news)
Luke 2:8-14
- Anticipation: The good news was predicted
Malachi 3:1
Challenges without hope lead to despair.
Challenges with anticipation lead to joy.
Isaiah 40:9-11
- Desperation: The good news was needed.
Isaiah 61:1-3
“At no point since 2005 have a majority of Americans said the country was on the right track, according to Gallup. Whether the economy is growing or shrinking, whether the president is a Democrat or Republican, most Americans believe that we have lost our way.” Ours Was the Shining Future, David Leonhardt
- Deliverance: the Good News brought freedom.
Isaiah 52:7-9
Mark 1:14-15
“We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” C.S. Lewis
- Personification: the Good News comes as a person-Jesus
Luke 4:14-21
Response:
• Look: Attentively seek to see God’s love all around you.
• Open: Receive His peace and grace as it is poured into your life.
• Share: Be the bearers of good news this Christmas season
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Big Idea: We are chosen to carry the message of God’s hope and love to our world.
- Be Light
Matthew 5:15-16
• Let your message matter more than your opinion
• Let your message matter more than your image
• Let your message match your actions
• Be a light IN the world
1 Peter 2:12 (The Message)
“Sometimes we make too much of our work, thinking we have to control the outcome. We simply have the opportunity to love a human God created.” - MaryKate Morse.
- Be a Bridge
Acts 17: 24-28
“The church is not a place into which people escape from the world, but it is God's bridgehead into the world. Christians are called to live as signposts to the new creation, as the bridge of the Messiah.” - Tom Wright
- Speak the message
2 Corinthians 4: 5-6
1 Timothy 4:10
2 Cor 5:14-15
“The world needs some good sermon illustrations. That is, we need more people whose lives prove the reality of the Risen Christ. Before people look at Jesus, they look at His followers.” - Mike Glen
Response:
-
Be reconciled to God.
-
Don’t try to control the outcome.
-
This week: Be light, build a bridge, and speak when you can.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 10:38-42
Big Idea: We are called to pursue intimacy with God as our #1 priority!
This is NOT a call of duty - This is a call of opportunity.
3 Keys to lasting intimacy:
1 - Intentional Listening
John 5:19-20
Be intentional if you are going to be intimate.
2 - Fight Distractions
We fight distractions for the benefit of the relationship!
Facts about distractions -
• Distractions can worry and upset us
• Distractions can cause contention & bitterness
“Because what you give your attention to is the person you become. Put another way: the mind is the portal to the soul, and what you fill your mind with will shape the trajectory of your character. In the end, your life is no more than the sum of what you gave your attention to.” - John Mark Comer
“What we give our mind's attention to, gets our heart's affection.” -G Connor Salter
Common Distractions:
• Success (2 Timothy 2:4)
• Information (Ecclesiastes 12:12)
• Noise (Psalm 46:10)
How does one fight distractions?
• Purge the problem
• Pursue the priority
Matthew 6:33
3 - Intimacy is chosen and can never be stolen
Luke 10:42
James 4:8
John 10:10
Response:
• Commit to pursuing intimacy
• Aggressively fight distractions
• Be so incredibly intimate with God that people will ask you to share your story
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Luke 22:39-46
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Big Idea: As members of the Body of Christ, we are called to uniquely use our gifts.
1 Corinthians 12:12-18
• Unity in Diversity
1 Corinthians 12:12-14
“God designed His Church to function as a harmonious orchestra, with each member playing a unique instrument, producing a beautiful symphony of faith.” - John MacArthur
• Neglecting Our Divine Design
1 Corinthians 12:15-18
“When we neglect our unique place and purpose in the Body of Christ, we hinder the Church’s ability to fully express God’s love and truth to the world.” - Charles Stanley
• Embracing Our SHAPE
Romans 12:6-8
SHAPE: Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experience. (Learn more here: https://www.evergreenpnw.com/shape)
1 Corinthians 12:6
“God’s call is not only to salvation but to service. Embrace your unique gifts to be a channel of God’s grace to the world.” - Rick Warren
Response:
• It is our divine calling to recognize and embrace our God-given SHAPE, for in doing so, we contribute to the unity and effectiveness of the Body of Christ.
• Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reflect on our gifts, hearts, abilities, personality, and experience to serve the Church.
• Love and serve your Oikos in the giftings that God has uniquely given you.
5 potential questions to help you identify your spiritual gifts:
-
As I study how gifts operate in the Bible, do any resonate in my soul?
-
What do I enjoy doing?
-
What is the Holy Spirit telling me?
-
What ministry in my life is God blessing?
-
What gifts do others see operating in me?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Luke 9:23-26
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 4:18-22
John 10:3-4
Big Idea: The Voice of Jesus is Calling - it’s time to follow Him.
- Jesus is Calling
John 10:27
The call to follow Jesus = A call to trust.
- Am I Responding?
Luke 9:23
Matthew 4:18-20
• Jesus doesn’t try to convince
• Jesus doesn’t give promises of what is ahead for them.
• Jesus doesn’t give clear answers to what that will look like.
• Jesus only says to follow…
Obedience - where our faith meets reality
Matthew 16:24-26
What does “Follow Me” mean?
• Our values morph as we follow Jesus.
• Our decision-making transforms as we say yes to Jesus.
• Our compass shifts direction.
Response:
• Develop discerning ears to hear the voice of Jesus
• Establish the pattern of saying ‘yes’ to God
• Prioritize showing Christ to your oikos that have yet to follow Jesus
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 12:2
2 Corinthians 5:16-19
Big Idea: In Christ, you are a new creation. Now embrace it and live it.
Galatians 6:14-15
-
The Old You
-
Remember where God has brought you from.
Ephesians 2:1-3
- Let Go of your past.
Philippians 3:13-14
- The New You
1 Peter 2:9-10
- Embrace the new Life you’ve been given!
What now?
-
Do not conform
-
Renew your mind
-
Reject the lies
-
Work through the generational patterns
-
Submit to the Spirit–in quietness and immersed in the Word.
-
Embrace the truth of who you are in Christ.
• I am God’s child (see John 1:12)
• I am Christ’s friend (see John 15:15)
• I am united with the Lord, and I am one spirit with Him (see 1 Corinthians 6:17)
• I have been bought with a price: I belong to God. (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
• I am a member of Christ’s Body (see 1 Corinthians 12:27)
• I am a saint, a holy one (see Ephesians 1:1)
• I have been adopted as God’s child (see Ephesians 1:5)
• I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 2:18)
• I have been forgiven of all my sins (see Colossians 1:14)
• I am complete in Christ (see Colossians 2:10)
• I am free from condemnation (see Romans 8:1-2)
• I am assured that all things work together for good (see Romans 8:28)
• I cannot be separated from the love of God (see Romans 8:35-39)
• I have been established, anointed and sealed by God (see 2 Corinthians 1:21-22)
• I am a citizen of heaven (see Philippians 3:20)
• I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self-control (see 2 Timothy 1:7)
• I can find grace and mercy to help in time of need (see Hebrews 4:16)
• I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me (see 1 John 5:18)
• I am the salt of the earth and the light of the world (see Matthew 5:13-14)
• I am a branch of the true vine, Jesus, a channel of His life (see John 15:1-5)
• I have been chosen and appointed by God to bear fruit (see John 15:16)
• I am a personal, Spirit-empowered witness of Christ (see Acts 1:8)
• I am a temple of God (see 1 Corinthians 3:16)
• I am a minister of reconciliation for God (see 2 Corinthians 5:17-21)
• I am God’s workmanship, created for good works (see Ephesians 2:10)
Who is this New You?
Romans 6:4-7
Response:
• Hand over the keys to your life to Jesus—again or for the first time.
• Embrace and celebrate the new life God has given you.
• Let your transformed life “preach” to your oikos.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 4:2-6
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 12:2
Big Idea: Renewing our minds is a continual but crucial process in a Christian life.
1 Corinthians 2:11-16
If you don’t allow God in to renew your mind, you’re not living the way you were created to live.
Point 1: Guard yourself.
“You are what your mind looks at.” - Tan Hwee Hwee
2 Corinthians 4:4
2 Timothy 1:7
Point 2: what’s filling you, what are you allowing to fill you?
THAT'S why it’s important to be familiar with God’s word and character. Renewal comes with the transformation of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 12:9
Ephesians 5:18-20
Point 3: Practice the process.
Philippians 4:8–9
“We move in the direction of our predominant thoughts” - Jim Ladd, Earl Nightingale
2 Corinthians 3:18
May the mind of Christ, my Savior,
Live in me from day to day,
By His love and power controlling
All I do and say.
May the Word of God dwell richly
In my heart from hour to hour,
So that all may see I triumph
Only through His power.
May the peace of God my Father
Rule my life in everything,
That I may be calm to comfort
Sick and sorrowing.
May the love of Jesus fill me
As the waters fill the sea;
Him exalting, self abasing,
This is victory.
May I run the race before me,
Strong and brave to face the foe,
Looking only unto Jesus
As I onward go.
May His beauty rest upon me,
As I seek the lost to win,
And may they forget the channel,
Seeing only Him.
(Kate B. Wilkinson, “May the Mind of Christ, My Savior”)
Response:
• What are you guarding against?
• What are you filling yourself with?
• What are you sharing as a result, and who are you sharing to?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 3:15-17
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 12:2
Genesis 3:1-14
Big Idea: God wants to take our lies and replace them with truth.
We believe the lie that God’s word is not trustworthy
• The truth is we are the ones who have drifted from fully trusting God
We believe that the Bible is God’s word: We hold that the Scriptures are infallible and inerrant in the original manuscripts. They are the unique, full, and final authority on matters of faith and practice, and there are no other writings similarly inspired by God. Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Psalms 19:7-11; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Hebrews 4:12; 1 Peter 1:23-25
“We're finite in knowledge and flawed in morality, a wise and holy God needs to guide us towards what is good and right and true.” - Paul David Trip
We believe the lie that God is disappointed in us
• The truth is (for those who know Him) We are His children and we do many things to please Him.
• Example: Sitting here this morning is pleasing to Him…Colossians 1:10
• While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8
Galatians 4:6-7
“God is so boundlessly pleased with Jesus that in him he is altogether well pleased with us.” - C.H. Spurgeon
We believe the lie that we are better than others
• The truth is God commanded us to love others as ourselves.
Matthew 22:36-40
“We make loving people a lot more complicated than Jesus did. Every time I try to protect myself by telling somebody about one of my opinions, God whispers to me and asks about my heart. Why are you so afraid? Who are you trying to impress? Am I really so insecure that I surround myself only with people who agree with me? When people are flat wrong, why do I appoint myself the sheriff to straighten them out? Burning down others’ opinions doesn’t make us right. It makes us arsonists.” - Bob Goff
Response
-
Seek after God Daily
-
Fill your mind with what the Word of God says about you:
Romans 8:17 | You are an heir of God
Ephesians 2:19 | You are part of God's family
Romans 10:13 | You are saved
1 Corinthians 6:19 | The Holy Spirit lives in you
Psalm 23:1-3 | God is taking care of you
John 15:11 | Jesus gives you true joy
Ephesians 1:3 | You are blessed
Galatians 2:20 | Jesus gave himself for you
Psalm 139:1 | God understands you
Exodus 19:5 | You are treasured by God
Isaiah 43:4 | You are precious to God
Galatians 3:13 | You are rescued
Jeremiah 29:11 | God has a plan for your life
1 John 5:14-15 | God listens to you
Zephaniah 3:17 | God is with you
- Love others like Jesus would
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 3:12-14
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 12:2
4 Areas of Relational Influence:
• Parents
• Family
• Spouse
• Friends
Big Idea: Generational patterns, whether positive or negative, have a profound impact on our lives.
3 Objections to Dealing with Our Past:
• Focusing on the past is bad.
• I don’t need to address my past.
• My past is a can of worms I am not willing to open.
Exodus 20:5-6
"Children who repeat the sins of their fathers evidence it by personally hating God." - Walter Kaiser
Point 1: Identifying Generational Patterns
• Single greatest influence on who you are today - Family of Origin…
- Your entire extended family going back 3-4 generations.
• “Jesus might live in your heart, but grandpa lives in your bones.” - Pete Scazzaro
Point 2: Breaking the Chains of the Past
• 2 Kings 22:1-2
Point 3: Building a Christ-Centered Legacy
• Proverbs 22:6
• “What one generation tolerates, the next generation will embrace.” - John Wesley
Response:
• The hope to change your generational patterns rests in Jesus.
- Romans 5:18-19
• There is nothing that has been passed down to you from prior generations that Christ cannot redeem and restore.
• God wants to restore broken patterns in your life.
-
“for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God”
-
“God's jealousy is not a compound of frustration, envy, and spite, as human jealousy so often is, but appears instead as a praiseworthy zeal to preserve something supremely precious.” - J. I. Packer
New pattern established in Christ.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 3:1-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 12:1–2
Big Idea: The world wants to press you into its mold, but God wants to transform you from the inside out.
• Formation
Genesis 2:7
Psalm 139:15
• Conformation
Romans 12:2
• Transformation
2 Corinthians 3:16–18
Transformation happens by:
a. The Gospel
b. Renewing of your mind
Ezekiel 11:18–20
Spiritual Formation: “Spiritual formation focuses on the deepening of one's relationship with God.”
-
Sabbath
-
Prayer
-
Silence
-
Scripture
-
Fasting
Response:
• Begin by giving it all to Jesus.
• Examine yourself and the pressures molding you, asking God to renew and redeem.
• Share your transformation story with your oikos.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 2:6-10
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 16:13-20
The Big Idea: The Church is entirely a work of Jesus.
The most important question any human will ever answer: Who do you say Jesus is?
People Love Their Church for Five Reasons:
• The Pastor
• The People
• The Place
• The Programs
• The Platform
Mature Christians Follow Jesus Deeper Into His Vision for the Church:
Matthew 28:16-20
Response:
• Let us pray for ECC and this transition
• Let us pray for our next Pastor
• Let us celebrate the One who is able
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 2:1-5
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
James 5:13-20
Big Idea: Prayer is our connection to Jesus, our source of overcoming.
- Prayer is the breath to our spiritual lungs.
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." - Martin Luther
Psalm 5:1-3
- Prayer anchors our humanity, and roots us in our humility.
a. Prayer reveals our need…we are like everyone else.
b. Prayer reveals our limits…and we can’t do it all.
c. Prayer reveals our sins and weaknesses…. we need to confess to one another.
“In the same way that a small child cannot draw a bad picture so a child of God cannot offer a bad prayer.” - Richard Foster
- Prayer rearranges our priorities.
There is a mystery to prayer - sometimes God allows our prayer to change circumstances in this world - and sometimes it doesn’t. Nothing is guaranteed, but miracles still routinely happen. One guarantee though - we will be changed as we pray.
“I really believe that it is possible for you to develop a simple life of prayer that can give you that ‘holy indifference.’ By that, I mean the place where you feel so truly safe and so well held that the ups and downs of your life aren’t able to distress you or excite you.” - Henri Nouwen
Response:
• Make prayer your spiritual breath—in and out, throughout the day.
• Make Trust the anchor no matter the answer to your prayers.
• Pray for something specific for each member of your oikos.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 1:24-29
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 5:7-12
The Big Idea: Perseverence is an active and focused spiritual discipline.
The focus that fuels our perseverance:
God’s promised deliverance
“Never think that God's delays are God's denials. Hold on; hold fast; hold out. Patience is genius.” –Comte de Buffon
Let’s talk about practicing patient engagement:
-
Perseverence knows that God’s deliverance is coming. (V7-9)
-
Perseverence knows that everyone matters to God. (V9)
-
Perseverence knows that God joins us in suffering as we remain on mission. (V10)
Hebrews 11:32-38
“The twelve apostles were men who gave up everything for the sake of the Cross. They lost their property; they lost their freedom; they lost health and were beaten; and ultimately they lost their lives. The prophets were no different. They were imprisoned, beaten and murdered for proclaiming the word of the Lord. The churches that flourished under the apostles also were plundered and impoverished and the Bible repeatedly encourages them to endure and look ahead to the end result. Our supreme example comes from Christ Himself.
What most Christians don’t realize is that the comfort and promise offered through suffering are not available any other way. If I avoid suffering by refusing to follow God through the darkest times of my life, I don’t just bypass the suffering, I also bypass the glory of God in my life.” -Ed Snipes
- Perseverence trusts God even when it doesn’t make sense. (V12)
What did God accomplish with Job?
• Proved the genuineness of Job’s faith
• Revealed Himself more clearly to Job and his Oikos
• Put it in Satan’s face
• Grew Job into an even greater man
Revelation 22:12
Response:
• Set your hope fully on God’s deliverance
• Commit to disciplined perseverence
• Pray for someone in your Oikos who is currently suffering
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 1:15-20
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 4:1-10
Big Idea: Overcomers fight the right enemy with the right tactics.
• Fight the Flesh
James 4:1-3
Acts 4:32
Galatians 5:17
“Be killing sin or sin will be killing you.” - John Owen
• Fight Worldliness
James 4:4-6
1 John 2:16
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
• Fight the Devil
James 4:7-10
"It is the Holy Spirit's job to convict, God's job to judge, and my job to love." - Billy Graham
Matthew 13:24-30
"Our job is to love others without stopping to inquire whether or not they are worthy. That is not our business and, in fact, it is nobody's business. What we are asked to do is to love, and this love itself will render both ourselves and our neighbors worthy.” - Max Lucado
Response:
• Identify the enemy - flesh, world, & devil
• Identify the tactic - submission & humility
• B.L.E.S.S your Oikos and don’t hold so tightly to your own life
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 1:3-8
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 3:13-18
The Big Idea: Godly wisdom is transformational for everyone involved
- The Birthmark of Wisdom is a Humility
John 5:44
- The Two Versions of wisdom
a. Ungodly wisdom – resulting in a disordered soul
b. God’s wisdom - resulting in human flourishing
- The Fruit of Wisdom is a harvest of right relationships
Proverbs 3:13-18
Response:
• Ask God for wisdom
• Commit to peacemaking
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Ephesians 3:7-13
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 3:1-12
The Big Idea: Managing your mouth requires God’s constant help.
Problem #1: Presumptive authority
Problem #2: Your tongue is a very real and present danger.
“You know the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” I have no idea who came up with that. It’s simply not true at all. No one stays in a hospital with a broken bone forever, but the couches of counselors are dented by those who sit week after week searching for healing from hurtful words. Of the things you hate about yourself most are things others have said to you, probably when you were young and didn’t know how to handle them. Words can damage the soul.” - David McLemore
Problem #3: It all starts at the source
Matthew 12:34
Matthew 15:18
Response:
• Humble your heart before God
• Invite the Presence of God into your heart
• B.L.E.S.S. your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Matthew 6:25-34
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 2:14-26
Does this disagree with the Apostle Paul?
Ephesians 2:8-10
The Big Idea: Faith without Incarnation is worthless.
- The Proposition (v 14-17): Dead faith cannot do a thing
James makes his point with two questions:
• What good is it?
• Can such faith save him?
- The Argument (v 18-25)
• Works are evidence that a person has faith.
• Even demons believe the Shema
• When faith and deeds work together, anyone can please God
- The Concluding Statement (v 26)
The body without the spirit is dead - so faith without deeds is dead.
Response:
• Do I have a saving faith, or a dead faith?
• Let Christ live in you by His Spirit
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos - This is your natural field of play for deeds
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 2 Chronicles 34:26-28
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 2:1-13
The Big Idea: Our simple command is to love people.
-
Crucify your impulse to be God
-
Choose what God chooses
-
Live with your verdict in mind
The Conclusion of the Matter: James 2:13
“Mercy triumphs over judgment.”
Response:
• Leave judgment to God
• Choose mercy every time
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
James 1:19-27
God wired three desires into your DNA
• To properly worship God
• To have God’s Blessing on all that you do.
• To be used by God to change somebody’s World
The Big Idea: To play the long game, “Listen Up, Grow Up, and Follow Up”
Three Rules for Life:
- Listen Up
• Prov. 10:19 NLT “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.”
• The worst outcome possible: “He deceives himself and his religion is worthless”
- Grow Up
Hebrews 12:1
- Follow Up
• Listening does not put you into any special favor with God - only obedience does.
Psalm 1:1-3
Galatians 5:6
Response:
• Lean into the supernatural work of God
• Listen, Grow, Obey
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Revelation 12:11
We will overcome this way as well: The Blood of Jesus, the story of our obedience and life, and not loving our lives as to shrink from death.
James 1:9–18
Big Idea: Temptation is an opportunity to move toward God or away from God.
Two Forces on our Soul:
-
Outward trials and attacks that erode our faith in God.
-
Inward temptations to move away from our trust in God.
Are you tempted to move toward God or away from God?
Temptations become crossroads, an opportunity to press toward Jesus or toward our fleshly desires.
Keys to Choosing the Road Toward Jesus:
- Reframe trials and temptations
God cares more for your growth than your comfort.
Every failure is a chance to experience God’s mercy, every temptation a chance to depend on Jesus, every trial a chance to lean into the Spirit.
- Understanding the Kingdom concept: Conception to Birth to Outcome
“Jesus may be in your heart, but grandpa is in your bones.” Pete Scazzaro
2 Peter 1:3
God’s power is enough for us to find victory over temptations. He IS the source for us to overcome.
- Live like Jesus—a Humble State of Dependence on God
Every temptation pushes us toward a growing faith or away from a walk with Jesus.
Response:
• Ask: what temptation can be converted to moving to be like Jesus?
• Reflect: Examine your heart, especially the beginnings.
• BLESS your Oikos
Revelation 12:11
James 1:1-8; 12
The Big Idea: Find joy in your trials because perseverance is the path.
Doctrine of God: He is the generous, holy, unchanging source of good; He is sovereign and just.
Doctrine of Sin: It is universal and indwelling all people, resulting in death. It expresses itself in anger, moral filth, blasphemy, discrimination, bitterness, pride, theft, and oppression.
Doctrine of End Times: The day of rewards, the day when God’s Kingdom will be introduced, the day of judgment, the day of the Lord’s return.
Trials are your servants
2 Corinthians 12:8-10
The greatest challenge in trials is the lack of wisdom.
There is nothing in God that keeps Him from giving, but unbelief is a barrier.
Mark 9:24
Daniel 3:17-18
Matthew 26:39
Revelation 2:8-11
Response:
• Commit to kissing your cross
• Ask God for wisdom without doubting in Him
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: God has given us everything we need to be overcomers, and you are going to make it!
John 16:7-15
The Better Way:
Better than having Jesus right next to you is having the Spirit in you!
- Never have to be Thirsty
John 7:37-39
John 16:8
- Never have to be Lost
John 3:8
John 16:12-13
- Never have to be Confused
John 16:13b-15
1 Corinthians 2:6-16
What is holding me back?
Am I Ignorant?
Acts 19:1-3
Am I Negligent?
2 Timothy 1:6-7,14
Am I Resistant?
Acts 7:51
RESPONSE:
• Confess your ignorance, negligence, or resistance
• Receive the Holy Spirit
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Proverbs 2:1-8
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: Jesus was the most free human ever and He can take us into that same level of freedom.
John 8:28-36
Three Steps to Total Freedom:
- Make a Declaration of Dependence:
John 15:1-8
- Throw off Religious systems that create barriers rather than freedom.
The Truth sets you free. It does not bind you into religious obligations
Colossians 2:6-23
- Take up your cross every day
Luke 9:23-25
Philippians 3:10-11
Response:
• Make a Declaration of Dependence
• Take up your cross daily
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Mark 10:35-45
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Proverbs 18:1-4, 10, 12-13, 15-17, 19, 21, 24
Exodus 20:16
The Big Idea: Stop mindreading and actually talk to people
• Stereotypes are thoughts.
- Thoughts produce prejudices
• Prejudices are feelings
- Thoughts and feelings lead to Discrimination
• Discrimination is an action.
- Action creates culture.
All of this began in Genesis 3:
• I was afraid
• Because I was naked
• So I hid
Three Skills of Relational Wisdom:
Skill #1: Stop mind reading
2 Corinthians 10:5-6
Romans 12:1
Skill #2: Start Talking. Specifically, Clarify expectations.
Expectations need to be validated.
• Conscious
• Realistic
• Spoken
• Agreed upon
Have a DTR!
B.L.E.S.S. Them
Skill #3: Forgive
• Forgive them
• Forgive yourself
• Forgive God
Mark 5:21-34
RESPONSE:
• Take control of your thoughts by the power of the Holy Spirit
• Have the difficult conversation
• B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Matthew 26:36-41
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
1 Peter 2:4–10
Big Idea: Community is built on God, with God, and for God.
Observations from 1 Peter:
Begins with the Living Stone
Cornerstone
The plumbline, anchor, base from which our community is constructed.
Capstone
The top level, shielding the wall from the elements and protecting it from cracking.
Keystone
The final piece in the arch, supporting a bridge of stones across an entryway.
• Every follower of Christ is also a living stone.
• God is fitting us together into a beautiful place for His Spirit to reside.
• To be a priesthood—representing God to the world, inviting all in.
What can we learn?
- Community begins with a relational life with God—foundational Living Stone.
“We don’t come to church, to be a church. We come to Christ, and then we are built up as a church. If we come to church just to be with one another, one another is all we’ll get. And it isn’t enough. Inevitably, our hearts will grow empty, and then angry. If we put community first, we will destroy community. But if we come to Christ first and submit ourselves to Him and draw life from Him, community gets traction.” - C.S. Lewis
John 15:13–17
- Jesus is forming His Church, fitting each of us into place.
“Family is the one human institution we have no choice over. We get in simply by being born, and as a result we are involuntarily thrown together with a menagerie of strange and unlike people. Church calls for another step: to voluntarily choose to band together with a strange menagerie because of a common bond in Jesus Christ. I have found that such a community more resembles a family than any other human institution.” - Philip Yancey
- A healthy community will display the Spirit of God, a royal representative of Him.
1 Peter 4:8–11
Romans 15:5–6
The Response:
• Savor the love of God for you.
• Commit to discovering your SHAPE and be a part of the community-building solution.
• B.L.E.S.S. your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Romans 12:9-21
Big Idea: Honor others above yourself.
Honor: (timé): a valuing, a price
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
How it is, we honor others within community:
- Cultivate Humility
Romans 12:14
Matthew 5:44
Philippians 2:3-4
"True honor comes from selflessness, placing the needs and interests of others above our own, and esteeming them as valuable in God's eyes." - Rick Warren
- Extend Grace
Romans 12:21
1 Thessalonians 5:15
"In a culture of contempt, our response to evil should be unwavering goodness, for it is through our actions that we can make a lasting impact." - Max Lucado
3. Value Uniqueness
Romans 12:16
1 Corinthians 12:21-23
“There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal.” - C.S. Lewis
Response:
• Make honor the center of your community
• Acknowledge the value in others
• B.L.E.S.S. your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Galatians 5:13-15
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
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What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: Christian community, while difficult and terrifying, is God’s ongoing incarnation of His love.
Read the 4 biographies of Jesus and it is clear that he had 2 core commitments:
• Solitude with the Father
• Life in Community
1 John 3:11-18
What is Community:
Not Connection
Not Chemistry
But Koinonia: People with a shared commitment, physical proximity, and regular engagement.
Matthew 10:1-4
Enemies of Community:
Individualism:
2 Timothy 3:1-5
Francois Fenelon - “Within every person is a vain, complaining, babbler - self love. We can identify it because it always wants to entertain itself and never feels sufficiently attended to. I beg you not to listen. Self-love whispers in one ear and the love of God in the other. The Self is grasping and impulsive, whereas the love of God is peaceful and simple. When we listen to the self, we no longer hear the whispering of the Spirit.”
Idealism:
“He who loves his dream of community more than the Christian community itself becomes a destroyer of the latter, even though his personal intentions may be ever so honest and earnest and sacrificial.” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The two resident realities inside true community:
Vulnerability and Accountability
James 5:13-16
Response:
Commit to the two core practices of Jesus
Partner with the Holy Spirit to build community
B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Joshua 1:7-9
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Hebrews 5:7-14
The Big Idea: We become complete in God the same way Jesus did.
How Jesus Was Made Complete
The Barrier to our perfection
Learning the Jesus Way
Jesus was made perfect through His faith, fervency, and submission in suffering.
The Barrier to our perfection is laziness. (v11)
“There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen.” (NLT)
“Concerning this we have much to say which is hard to explain, since you have become dull in your [spiritual] hearing and sluggish [even slothful in achieving spiritual insight].” (AMPC)
Learning the Jesus Way:
The Milk vs Meat Problem:
Spiritual Adults, by constant use and practice, have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil, choose the good, and take responsibility for their actions.
Hebrews 12:1-3
Throw off everything that hinders, and sin that entangles
Run with perseverance our own race
Focus on Jesus
Response:
• Accept responsibility for your spiritual growth
• Create some fresh focus for your own growth
• B.L.E.S.S. your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Romans 12:3-8
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Philippians 4:4-13
The Big Idea: The antidote for anxiety is the Presence of God.
The Call:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
“Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength.” - Charles Spurgeon
1 Peter 5:7
The Cadence:
• Rejoice in the Lord
• Present your requests to God
• Get your mind focused - “Anxiety is a thin stream of fear trickling through the mind. If encouraged, it cuts a channel into which all other thoughts are drained.” - Arthur Somersault Roche
• Actually Practice your faith
• Learn the Secret of Contentment - “One of the best anti-anxiety medications available is generosity. Helping others reduces stress by helping us feel valued and capable. Talking through someone else’s problems can give us wisdom for our own challenges - and motivates us to follow through.” - Adam Grant
The Key to it All:
The Lord is near!
Response:
• Cast your anxiety on Him
• Practice your faith every day
• B.L.E.S.S. your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: John 15:1-5
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
James 5:13-16
What if the thing that leads to our greatest security in life is not building walls barriers, but rather building a connection?
Big Idea: The greatest peace we can experience is by living in authentic connection.
Authenticity with God
"Our relationship with God is the foundation of our entire lives. It affects how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we see the world." - Charles Stanley
Genesis 3:6-10
• “made coverings for themselves.”
• “and they hid from the Lord God”
• “I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.”
James 5:13
Psalm 139:23
“Vulnerability is the core, the heart, the center, of meaningful human experiences.” - Daring Greatly, Brene Brown
Authenticity with Ourselves
James 1:6-8
Romans 8:1-2
2 Corinthians 3:4-5
World’s view: You are/what you made yourself into.
Christian view: You are/what Christ has made you into.
Authenticity with Others.
"When we live in authentic community, we learn to trust, to forgive, and to serve one another. We become more like Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve." - Timothy Keller
1 John 1:9
Proverbs 28:13
Response:
• Enjoy vulnerability before God.
• Be authentic with ourselves.
• Experience healing in community.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Matthew 22:34-40
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Genesis 3:8-19
The Anatomy of Human Captivity:
• Fear - our core emotion
• Shame - our core motivation
• Hiding - our core strategy
• Blame - our self-deception
• Curse - our cultural reality
The Big Idea: Perfect love is the only thing that sets captives free.
1 John 4:18-19
Freedom is not the absence of some thing; it’s the presence of Some One.
How we deepen our own captivity:
Colossians. 2:8
The Three D’S of POW’s held in war:
• Debility
• Dependence
• Dread
The Decisive Deliverance of Jesus
Colossians 2:9-15
The Key to Continual Freedom:
Titus 2:11-12
RESPONSE:
• Leave your condemnation on the cross
• Rely upon daily grace, not personal willpower.
• B.L.E.S.S. your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Hebrews 1:1-4
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Isaiah 30:15-16
Matthew 11:28-30
The Big Idea: Real rest is a 24/7/365 invitation for followers of Jesus.
The Problem:
I’m worn out, overwhelmed, and rarely at rest.
The Ten symptoms of “hurry sickness”:
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Irritability—You get mad, frustrated, or just annoyed way too easily.
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Hypersensitivity—It takes very little to throw you into an emotional funk and ruin your day.
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Restlessness—When you actually do try to slow down and rest, you can’t relax.
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Workaholism (or just nonstop activity)—You just don’t know when to stop. Or worse, you can’t stop.
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Emotional numbness—You just don’t have the capacity to feel another’s pain.
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Out-of-order priorities—You feel disconnected from your identity and calling.
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Lack of care for your body—You don’t have time for the basics of physical health
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Escapist behaviors—When we’re too tired to do what’s actually life-giving for our souls, we each turn to our distraction of choice: overeating, overdrinking, binge-watching Netflix, browsing social media, surfing the web, looking at porn—name your preferred cultural narcotic.
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Slippage of spiritual disciplines—When you get overbusy, the things that are truly life-giving for your soul are the first to go rather than your first go to
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Isolation—You feel disconnected from God, others, and your own soul.
The Diagnosis:
I live in the wrong yoke and believe the wrong stuff
"Busyness is not a sign of success. It is a sign that we have lost sight of what is truly important in life." - Oliver Burkeman, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
“When we live in constant noise, we forget our mortality, and this world and this life is all you’ve got, and you’ll lose yourself in trying to be everything for everybody. Pretending you are eternal is a miserable, dehumanizing lie - the original lie. We never tire of believing it and never fail to lose ourselves in it.” - Tyler Staton, Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools
The Prescription:
Shift from Rushing to Resting
Hebrews 4:1, 9-11
To Sabbath is to stop, to rest, to delight, to contemplate, to worship, to renew our relationships with God, with ourselves, and with other people.
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath because He is the Sabbath. He is rest.
Psalm 46:10
Response:
• Get into the yoke with Jesus
• Practice Rest all day
• Encourage someone in your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 23:13-25; 32-34; 38-43; 46-47
Three witnesses of the King’s Love:
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Barabbas - Receives a pardon he does not deserve
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A Criminal on his cross - Receives an eternal paradise he does not deserve
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A Centurion executioner at foot of the cross - Receives a revelation about God that he does not deserve.
How do I know that this is real and certain?
His resurrection is the guarantee of this promised reality, both now and forever.
1 Peter 1:3-5
Response:
• Receive what you do not deserve, by the mercy and grace of Jesus alone
• Live free and transformed in the finished work of Jesus
• Offer His grace to all who surround you
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Luke 22:39-46
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 15:1-7
The Big Idea: Jesus is the best friend a sinner could ever have.
Luke 7:33-35
The Lost Sheep
How do Sheep get lost? One clump of grass at a time!
Jesus leaves the 99 and goes after the one. And then throws a big party!
The Lost Coin
How does a coin get lost? It slips through someone’s fingers.
Jesus loves people who fell through someone’s fingers. He lights lamps and searches all night. He sweeps and sweeps. He searches UNTIL HE FINDS THEM.
The Lost Son
How does a son get lost? Wanting to make a life for himself where no one has authority over him.
Luke 15:21-24
Luke 15:31-32
Jesus is the best friend a sinner could ever have, and He wants you to be the second best.
Response:
• Come home to the Father who is searching for you!
• Join the Father’s search for the lost and the dead.
• Pray for your Oikos and serve them!
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Luke 19:35-40
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: The more I know God’s Word, the more I will recognize His voice in all kinds of places.
James 1:2-11, 21-25
- Start with Why
Why do you want to hear from God? What are you looking for?
James 1 Suggests Four Good Reasons to Listen to God:
• He is Good and Sovereign
• He is committed to your development and growth
• He is trustworthy. Placing your trust elsewhere makes you unstable
• Life is a temporary assignment
- Commit to Obedience
2 Timothy 3:14-17
C.S. Lewis said, “Obedience is the key that opens every door.”
- Get into the Word consistently and systematically
James 1:22-25
A Discovery Bible Study is a fantastic tool for this!
Response:
• I will seek only to know God’s will and find the grace to live it
• I will consistently and systematically read the Word of God
• I will encourage my Oikos with the goodness of God and what I learn
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Deuteronomy 6:4-9
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
3 Attitudes we might find ourselves in:
• Confident
• Curious
• Cautious
Big Idea: The Bible is the living, active Word of God that connects us to its author.
John 14:1-7
Scripture is the telling of God’s story.
Attitude towards Scripture dictates authority, the authority dictates transformation.
2 Timothy 3:14-17
• The Bible is not just true, it is TRUTH.
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” (John 14:6)
Follow the Word - Following Jesus - Finding Truth - Finding Life
• Because it’s ALIVE & ACTIVE
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:3)
Hebrews 4:12-13
Psalm 119:130
• The Word connects us to the Author.
“If you really know me, you will know my Father as well.” (John 14:7)
-
Listening aligns our patterns with God’s.
-
Listening gives us a glimpse into what is next.
Response: The Word transforms your life as you surrender to its authority.
• Transformation is the evidence of the Word at work.
• Submitting to Lordship/authority is an ongoing process.
• Start simple, start today.
Luke 22:42
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Psalm 119:1-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Can we trust this book to be what it says it is—a story of God’s plan for us?
Luke 1:1–4
1 Thessalonians 2:13
John 20:31
The Big Idea: You can trust God, and you can trust His word
- Why Has It Not Been Trusted?
Perceptions and Misunderstandings
• Preconceptions
• Misunderstood contexts
- Why CAN It be Trusted?
The Historical Accuracy of God’s Word
• There is eyewitness testimony
• The biographies (gospels) and letters were accurately preserved
• There is credible evidence outside of biographies
• Archaeological evidence still confirms the reality of Jesus
Transformed Lives
If the Bible has been used to hurt you, it breaks the heart of God. God’s word may convict, but it is always used to bring us healing.
1 Thessalonians 2:13
Trust will always require an element of faith.
“Men do not reject the Bible because it contradicts itself, but because it contradicts them.” –E. Paul Hovey
Response:
• Spend this week meditating on the trustworthiness of God. Psalm 1:1-3
• Choose a challenging passage in the Bible and study it to gain other perspectives.
• Share with people in your oikos what biblical thoughts you are processing this week.
If you want to dig in more on this, I want to encourage you to purchase some books to read:
-
The Case for Christ – written by Lee Strobel
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Letters from a Skeptic – where a follower of Christ shares a series of letters he wrote back and forth to his atheist dad.
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Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus – where a devout Muslim comes to faith in Jesus after looking through the Scripture and evidence.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Proverbs 2:1-6
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 7:24-27
The Big Idea: The Bible is the solid foundation we all need.
Three Things The Bible Is:
- The Bible is the Word of God.
Revelation 19:11-14
Hebrews 4:12
- The Bible is the Story of God.
A library of 66 books, written by 39 authors on 3 continents over 1,500 years.
When we don't understand the context of God, we miss the details of God.
- The Bible is Real, Raw, and Relevant
“The Gospel is not just an answer that will work; it is the only answer that will work.” - Nabeel Quireshi
What the Bible is Not:
- The Bible is not a quick fix
Psalm 1:1-3
- The Bible is not just for scholars.
2 lies:
• It’s too archaic and behind you
• It’s too academic and beyond you
Psalm 119:105
- The Bible is not a buffet.
Proverbs 14:12
Answer these questions:
Can God disagree with you?
Would you hear Him if He did?
Will you listen to Him and consider His wisdom, Truth, and love for you?
Will you allow Him to speak - to guide - to correct - to heal - to call you - to use your life in His story?
RESPONSE:
• I will read a portion of the Bible every day
• I will ask the Spirit and the Word to read me every day
• I will encourage my Oikos with the Word of God
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Psalm 19:7-14
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Mark 8:34-38
Matthew 11:28–30
Big Idea: As we give God an undivided heart, He infuses our life with His Spirit as we learn to walk in step with Him.
- We balance ON the rock–Jesus–our foundation
Matthew 7:24-25
“When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”
― Deitrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship
- We balance WITH the Spirit–with all of our lives intertwined with the Spiritual (capital S), yoked in sync with Jesus
"I think if you had asked Jesus about His spiritual life, He would have looked at you very confused. My guess is He would have asked, “What do you mean by my spiritual life? All of my life is spiritual.”
–Garden City, John Mark Comer
- We balance AMIDST the mysteries of God–where faith lives in tension.
“Other paradoxes in the Benedictine spiritual way of life include the creative tensions between community and solitude, words and silence, human labor and divine grace, dying to live, and becoming poor to find true riches. Part of the genius of….spirituality is learning to live a balanced life of faith within such creative tensions.”
–Ancient Paths, David Robinson
Response:
• Decide: make Jesus the foundation of your life—decide to go all in.
• Act: walk in step with Jesus. Everything you do is spiritual.
• Wrestle: learn to live with the tensions.
Book Recommendations:
• The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction, by Justin Whitmel Earley
• The Deeply Formed Life, by Rich Villodas
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Psalm 37:7-8, 39-40
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 7:24-27
Matthew 22:36-40
Matthew 28:16-20
The Big Idea: If you don’t have a sense of purpose worth dying for, you will struggle to find anything worth living for.
How to Build on Solid Rock:
• Embrace that all authority in heaven and on earth is HIS
• Entrust my entire life to the Lordship of Jesus, as I currently understand it
• Be baptized into a living relationship with God
• Commit to obeying everything Jesus taught and commands
• Be a spiritual father or mother
Romans 1:1-2
Oikos: Extended Household
The greatest contribution you can ever make to God and the world is found in your own household.
Mark 2:1-12
A Simple and Strategic Lifestyle: Be a Blessing!
Believe for them in Prayer
Listen to them
Eat with them
Serve them
Share your story with them
Response:
• I will entrust my life to God and to Him alone
• I will build my life on the love of God
• I will bless my extended household
Book recommendation:
The Gospel Comes with a House Key: Practicing Radically Ordinary Hospitality in Our Post-Christian World - Rosaria Butterfield
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 1:3-8
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Psalm 133:1-3
John 17:20-23
The Big Idea: Christian community exists because of Jesus, through Jesus, and for the mission of Jesus.
“The Kingdom is to be in the midst of your enemies. And he who will not suffer this does not want to be of the Kingdom of Christ; he wants to be among friends, to sit among roses and lilies, not with the bad people but the devout people. O you blasphemers and betrayers of Christ! If Christ had done what you are doing, who would ever have been spared?” - Martin Luther
Community Because of Jesus:
Our community with one another consists solely in what Christ has done to both of us.
Christian brotherhood is not an ideal we must realize, but rather a reality created by God, through Christ Jesus in which we may participate.
Community Through Jesus
Jesus prays that we might be One as He and the Father are One - only by being IN Jesus and IN the Father, by the work of the Holy Spirit. - One Body - the Body of Jesus
• We receive one another as works of God’s grace
• We love one another as Jesus loves us
• We contribute to, but do not seek to control
The Disciples didn’t take their eyes off of Jesus because of Judas.
Community as Witness to the World
“Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17:23)
John 3:14-17
RESPONSE: Rethink and Renew:
• Your relationship with the local church
• Your brotherhood or sisterhood - and your willingness to be that for others
• Your relationships as a demonstration of Jesus to the world
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Philippians 2:1-4
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Stability: To make an impact, one must remain in the same place for a long time.
Jeremiah 1:10
Jeremiah 29:4-14
The French have a saying from the 15th Century: "Fleuris là où tu es plantée," which means, "Bloom where you are planted."
Big Idea: God wants you to bloom where He has you planted.
• God has a plan for your exile season.
Jeremiah 29:4
Jeremiah 29:11
• Blooming where we are planted brings stability and power.
Psalm 1:3
“A river cuts through a rock not because of its power, but because of its persistence.” - unknown.
Jeremiah 29:5-6
• Stability produces change.
Jeremiah 29:7
“You cannot pray for someone and hate them at the same time.” - Billy Graham.
Jeremiah 29:12-14
Response: God has a plan for where you are planted, and He wants you to join Him there.
• 2 ways to answer the question, should I leave or should I stay:
-
Is God calling me to something new?
-
Has God released me from where I am currently planted?
• God always calls us TO something, not FROM something.
• Pray for your exile season.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Colossians 3:15-17
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Genesis 1:26-28
Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17
Genesis 3:17-19
The Big Idea: For disciples of Jesus, our work is a prophetic act of worship.
The Origin and Purpose of Work
The purpose of our work is to add value - to bring value, beauty, and contribution to the world.
The Curse Changed Our Relationship with Work.
Many of us have a disordered relationship with work
• Find (or lose) our identity in our work
• Work is disconnected from our spiritual lives
• Loyalties become misplaced
The Restoration and Redemption of Work:
Paradise is not the absence of work; it is the presence of meaningful work.
This is the idea of “exercising dominion over creation” (Genesis 1:28)
• Idleness is an enemy of the soul
• Work is an expression of love
• Work is an effort to re-order the natural world in harmony with God’s will.
• Work is one way that we create culture
• We can provide revelation through our work (Colossians 3:17)
RESPONSE:
• I will do my work as a prophetic act of worship to God
• I will create culture with how I work
• I will serve my Oikos at work
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Philippians 1:19-26
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: Prayer is simply about being with God.
Psalm 46
Practicing the Way of Jesus
Pray in adoration to God and in defiance to your circumstances
Pray for fidelity, boldness, and obedience, rather than deliverance.
Pray the Rosary
The Hallow App
Pray Hail Mary’s
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Pray the Our Father
The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:5-15)
Get your Why right - Don’t be like the hypocrites
Get your Mind right - your Father sees, knows, and rewards
Get your Heart right - If you forgive, He forgives. If you don’t, He does not
Get to work - Pray differently
Our Father - embracing the relationship
In Heaven - you are above, I am beneath
Hallowed - set apart - is your NAME (even reflecting on the names)
Come! Your Kingdom; Be Done! Your will - in our lives like it is in heaven
Daily Bread - living today with trust for tomorrow
Forgive us - as we also forgive
Lead Us - Deliver Us
Kingdom, Power, Glory
The Nighttime Shema:
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings sleep to my eyes, slumber to my eyelids.
May it be Your will, Lord my God and God of my ancestors, that I lie down in peace and that I arise in peace.
Let my sleep be undisturbed by troubling thoughts, bad dreams, and wicked schemes.
May I have a night of tranquil slumber.
May I awaken to the light of a new day, that my eyes may behold the splendor of Your light.
Praised are You, Lord whose glory gives light to the entire world.
The HaMotzi
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings forth bread from the earth.
Morning prayer: “I bow on my knees to declare I am a servant of the Most High God. I lift up my hands and pray, “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me this day that I may glorify Jesus.”
The Prayer of Examen
Lectio Devina
BLESS and 5X5X5X5
Daily Prayer phone app
ACTS
RESPONSE:
Hang out with God all the time
Pray for someone in your Oikos this week, and let them know that you did
Pray with our Team if you have a heavy need
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Philippians 1:12-18
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 20-25
The Big Idea: Intentional structures free us to experience the presence of God within our everyday life.
2 Peter 1:3-11
Faith -> Goodness -> Knowledge -> Self-Control -> Perseverance -> Godliness -> Mutual Affection -> Love
Intentional focused structures will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your faith.
Ideas For Getting Started:
• Living in the River
-
Items on the walls
-
Sticky Notes
-
Daily Times of Prayer ritual
-
Pocket Tokens
-
Journal entries
-
Prayer of Examen every evening or morning
-
Daily Limits on Screen Time
-
Prescribed Reading Time and Books
-
Build a Prayer Team
-
Regular Fasting
-
Prayer and Study Retreats
• Biblical Thinking
-
Read a portion of God’s Word every day
-
Lectio Divina prayer daily
-
Memorize a small passage every week
-
Family Scripture and Discussion
-
Monthly Book Readings
-
Radical limits on Screen Times
• Marriage
-
DBS on Marriage passages
-
Lectio Divina prayer on marriage passages
-
Pray together daily or twice daily (set times of prayer)
-
Daily Affirmations
-
Refuse to go to bed angry
-
Monthly Mentor Couple dinners
-
Read a book together twice per year
-
Play Games or Hobbies Together
-
Date Night Rituals
• Communities of Discipleship
-
Seek Guidance from God
-
Weekly coffee chats
-
Weekly shared meals with families
-
Oikos Card:
I. BLESS
II. 5X5X5X5
-
Prayer Walk Your Neighborhood
-
Scheduled Hospitality
-
“The Gospel Comes With A House Key”
John 7:37-39
The Big Idea: Your personal mission is to be a source of God’s life-giving water in the middle of a desert.
Ezekiel 47:1-12
Psalm 1:1-3
2023: One Objective and Three Strategies
One Objective: Live in the River!
Three Strategies:
• Learn to Think Biblically
Colossians 2:6-12
The Issachar Collective
• Build Incredible Marriages
Ephesians 5:21-33
Merge
Foundations
re|engage
• Develop communities of resilience and fidelity
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
Response:
Commit to learning how to think Biblically and live as a Disciple of Jesus
Commit to strong marriages
Select and commit to a community of friends this year
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Luke 5:1-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 2:22-35
The Big Idea: The radical measure God takes to redeem creation is the dividing line of all things.
The Humility of Jesus
Exodus 13:2
Leviticus 12:8
Mark 1:4
The Praise of Simeon
God doesn’t want A people - He wants ALL people
Everything and everyone was made for the glory of God - and He wants it all back!
The Prophecy of Simeon
Jesus brings division to clarify the pathway to peace
Luke 12:49-53
Response:
• Give your life for the glory of God
• Enjoy the certainty of His love and Presence in your life
• Go to war for your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Matthew 2:13-18
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 2:22-35
The Big Idea: The radical measure God takes to redeem creation is the dividing line of all things.
The Humility of Jesus
Exodus 13:2
Leviticus 12:8
Mark 1:4
The Praise of Simeon
God doesn’t want A people - He wants ALL people
Everything and everyone was made for the glory of God - and He wants it all back!
The Prophecy of Simeon
Jesus brings division to clarify the pathway to peace
Luke 12:49-53
Response:
• Give your life for the glory of God
• Enjoy the certainty of His love and Presence in your life
• Go to war for your Oikos
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Matthew 2:13-18
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: Jesus has joined the least of us, to save the least of us, and give us all God’s favor - forever!
Luke 2:1-20
The Coming of the Christ
• His historical certainty
• The Father’s Choice for Point-of-Entry
• The Emptying of Jesus
The Significance of the Shepherds
• A career of all guts, no glory
• Legally defined as unreliable
• Jesus joins the team
John 10:11-13
The Announcement of the Angels
• Warriors, not cupids
• God’s Glory, Great news, and Mega Joy
• The Sign
The Message: Jesus has joined the least of us, to save the least of us, and give us God’s favor, forever!
The disqualification you feel is what makes you qualified and the qualifications you feel make you disqualified.
RESPONSE:
• Join the Worship of the Heavenly Host
• Go and see this thing that God has done!
• Do the Shepherd thing: “They spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child”
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Matthew 2:1-12
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 1:17-25
The Big Idea: Wake up and answer God's call, for it is worth everything that it costs.
Law and Grace: v19
Law is a Teacher, Love is The Guide
Galatians 3:24-25
Matthew 22:37-40
Your Role in God’s Work: v17; 20
The Angel’s Pitch:
•Do not allow fear to make you miss God
•You are participating in God’s Master Plan of redemption
The Biggest Enemy You Face: v20, 24-25
Joseph, like you and me, is essential to God’s plan and completely dispensable.
Proverbs 3:34
Ever since Genesis 3, THE enemy that brings us down is our love of self.
RESPONSE:
•What is God saying to you?
•What will you do about it?
•Who can you encourage this week?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Psalm 27:7-14
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Luke 1:26-56
The Big Idea: You are eligible to receive God’s favor and blessing the same way Mary did - the impossible made possible entirely by God’s goodness and power.
God’s WHY for everything He does is HIMSELF:
In other words, God is gracious to us because He is faithful and true to Himself
God’s WHAT: Favor and Blessings made available to all who fear Him; the humble and the hungry
Mary is Favored - “the recipient of manifest unmerited grace”
•The Holy Spirit comes to her
•The Power of the Most High overshadows her
•The One who saves her is the Son of God
Mary is Blessed: “happy and fortunate due to her circumstances”
God’s HOW: Everything we need, He has already done
God keeps His promises! Holy is His name!
RESPONSE:
What is God saying to you?
Will you say “yes” to what God has done?
Will you live from the same WHY as He does?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Galatians 6:7-10
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: While God is doing His global work, He attends to your cries, too.
Luke 1:5-25
The Testimony of Zechariah and Elizabeth:
• There is a long, sovereign, specifically planned and never random redeeming work of God among men. He is faithful, relentless, and deeply in love with us
• All people, including the faithful, must reconcile deep disappointments
• God responds to the cries of the world and your personal cries at the same time
Luke 1:67-79
Response:
• Give up the Global Operations Director (G.O.D.) role
• Pick up the prayers once again that you have given up on
• Walk in the peace of your King - your sins have been forgiven, and your Redeemer lives!
• Be an ambassador of Peace
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Genesis 37:1-11
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 25:31-46
Matthew 16:24-27
The Big Idea: Jesus hates fake religion even more than people do.
James 1:27
The Truth About Sheep and Goats:
•Goats don’t hurt you or help you - they just consume
•Jesus knows the sheep
Matthew 7:22 - I never knew you - “Lord, Lord, did we not prophecy in your name…”
•Those on the left hand are not just unwelcomed, they are banished
What Jesus is Actually Judging
Jesus is discerning the root by the fruit that it produces
•The presence of the Spirit - Luke 4:18 (Isaiah 61)
“Good deeds that are not the unconscious, automatic response of a heart indwelt by Jesus Christ are not truly ‘good’ deeds. They are planned deeds, contrived, carefully performed for the public eye, or if in private, done in the hope that they will purchase some merit or favor before God. But God's judgments take note only of the unconscious moments of our lives, the times when we are off guard, when we are unaware. It is then that we truly reveal ourselves. The test comes, not in our remembered actions, but in our unconscious reactions, our instinctive, unplanned responses.” - Ray C. Stedman
A Great Place to Get Started
V40: “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
Acts 4:33-35
Is the church a safe place for broken people? Yes or No?
If we cannot do this for our brothers and sisters, how can we ever do this for the world?
Response:
•What is God saying to me?
•What will happen if I obey?
•Who in my Oikos needs to hear from me?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Mark 1:40-45
Prayer:
I bow my knees to declare that I am a servant of the Most High God. I lift my hands and pray, Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me this day that I might glorify Jesus.
“The Spirit filled life is not a special, deluxe edition of Christianity. It’s part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people.” - A.W. Tozer (How to be filled with the Holy Spirit)
Mark 1:9-11
Mark 1:12-13
Matthew 4:1
Greek - Anagó: to lead up, bring up
John 14:26
Galatians 5:22-23
Big Idea: The Spirit Leads Us Into Our Oikos.
Acts 1:8
Response:
•We are led into places that glorify Christ and produce fruit of the Spirit dwelling within us.
•The Baptism of the Spirit is less about us having the Spirit, and more about the Spirit having us.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Ephesians 1:17-23
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: God invites us to have lives, families, and communities that are unexplainable apart from the Presence of God.
Galatians 4:6-11
Galatians 5:16-25
Wrestle with this question:
Does your worship more resemble the prophets of BAAL or the prophet of God?
1 Kings 18:16-39
We Must Learn the Jesus Two-Step: Galatians 5:24-25
Step 1: Crucify the Flesh
Step 2: Keep in step with the Spirit:
Life in this world does not define you, this does:
Galatians 3:13-14
Four Guiding Principles:
1. Jesus did not die and rise again so He could FOLLOW US
-
The activity of the Spirit is not done to you, but in you and through you
-
At any moment, it is impossible to live in the power of the SPIRIT and the power of SIN at the same time.
-
God wants my life, family, and church to be UNEXPLAINABLE without the Holy Spirit.
Philippians 4:6-7
In this world you will have trouble – I have overcome world
How Bout This: Don’t try harder: Just invite God to be GOD, in you and through you!
God invites ME and WE to be:
UNEXPLAINABLE
UNSTOPPABLE
UNFAKEABLE
IRRESISTIBLE
Response:
What is God saying to me?
What would happen if I obey Him?
Who should I tell about this moment?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 2 Corinthians 12:7b-12
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
-
What is a challenge you are facing?
-
How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
-
What stands out to you?
-
What does this passage tell us about people?
-
What does this passage tell us about God?
-
Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
-
Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit will put His breath in you, and you will come to life.
Pentecostal: “Depending upon God to do something that I cannot do”
A Framework for Spiritual Gifts and their Function:
Purpose of the Gifts = LOVE
Power of the Gifts = LOVE
Practice of the Gifts = LOVE
Product of the Gifts = LOVE
Ezekiel 37:1-10
God’s redemptive and powerful plan: (v5-6)
• I will put breath in you
• You will come to life
• You will know that I am the Lord
We desire healing in our body, but do not have the breath of God in us
God invited Ezekiel to invite His Spirit - He does the same with you and me.
Luke 11:11-13
Response:
• When you have no hope in the bones, have hope in God
• Do not limit what God wants to do with the bones
• Prophesy to your dry bones
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Ephesians 4:1-16
► Connection questions:
-
What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
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What stands out to you?
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What does this passage tell us about people?
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What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: Spiritual gifts help Christians grow and love others.
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
Spiritual gifts are a real-world expression of God’s grace to you.
Charismata
List of Gifts:
Prophesy, service, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, mercy, message of wisdom, message of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, miraculous powers, discernment, speaking in tongues, interpreting tongues, apostles, teachers, helping, guidance, evangelists, pastors, and hospitality.
The Holy Spirit gives different gifts to us all.
Romans 12:6
Joel 2:28-29
We experience the gifts that God has for us, here and now.
Spiritual gifts strengthen the church and help us love others.
Spiritual gifts help us tell others about Jesus.
Response:
Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.
Spiritual gifts help Christians grow and love others.
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:12-30
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
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What stands out to you?
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What does this passage tell us about people?
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What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
Matthew 11:28-30
The Big Idea: God speaks, and we can learn to listen and follow.
John 10:27-30
God Speaks
We can learn to listen
Intimacy with God is the secret of life.
God Speaks: (and always has!)
Exodus 33:11-17
John 14:16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:7-8, 13-14
We Can Learn to Listen:
Hebrews 3:7-12
Hebrews 4:7-13
Should I stay or should I go? Is God speaking, Yes or No?:
•Does it move me closer to full dependence upon Jesus?
•Will this help me love my neighbors more?
•Go first to the verse. Go next to the voice.
Intimacy With God is the Secret of Life:
Revelation 3:20
RESPONSE:
•What is God saying to me?
•Who in my Oikos can I assist in hearing God for themselves?
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
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What stands out to you?
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What does this passage tell us about people?
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What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit Connects us to one another as much as He connects us to Himself
Acts 2:42-47
1 Peter 2:4-5; 9-10
Devoted: “Connected closely and continuously.”
The People of God are Devoted to Four Things:
- The Word of God
There are lots of perspectives, and we appreciate them all. AND we concern ourselves with submitting to only this one.
- Fellowship with other disciples of Jesus
“The same close connection with one another that we have with Jesus “
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Communion
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Prayer
We are living stones being built into a spiritual house offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God.
The Lord added to their number daily.
RESPONSE:
• I will seek the Holy Spirit so that He can connect me to Jesus and others
• I will join a DBS to practice the four devotions:
1. The Word of God
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Fellowship with other disciples of Jesus
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Communion
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Prayer
DISCOVERY BIBLE STUDY
► This week's Passage: Romans 12:3-8
► Connection questions:
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What are you thankful for?
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What is a challenge you are facing?
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How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
► Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
► Individual answers to five questions:
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What stands out to you?
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What does this passage tell us about people?
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What does this passage tell us about God?
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Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement)
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Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea :God does not want a bunch of burned-out, stressed-out, overloaded, worn-out, children representing Him in the world. He wants us to flourish day by day, hour by hour for ourselves and for our Oikos.
John 14:16-17, 26 John 15:26 John 16:7-8, 13-14 Acts 1:8
The Spirit Gives us Power
Ephesians 3:14-21
Power to be: • Anchored in Christ at the soul level • Rooted in the jaw-dropping love of Christ • Completely and confidently fearless
“Mark it down. The Holy Spirit comes with power. Power to make good choices, keep promises, and silence the inner voices of fear and failure. Power to get out of bed, get on with life, get busy about the right things in the right way. Power to face the unexpected, unwanted passages of time. Power. This is what Jesus promised then, and this is what Jesus promises still.” - Max Lucado
The Spirit Enables Us to be a Witness
Hebrews 12:1-3 Hebrews 11:32-40
The Holy Spirit Equips Us for Mission
John 20:21-23 Ephesians 5:15-20
RESPONSE: • I will receive Power to flourish day by day with God • I will partner with God for my Oikos • I will join a DBS for October
Discovery Bible Study: • This week's passage: Acts 1:1-10
• Connection Questions: 1. What are you thankful for? 2. What is a challenge you are facing? 3. How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
• Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
• Offers individual answers to Five Questions: 1. What stands out to you? 2. What does this passage tell us about people? 3. What does this passage tell us about God? 4. Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement) 5. Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: One of the great secrets of life is to simply get in on what God is already doing.
Acts 2:1-21
WHAT IS GOING ON HERE? 1. The continuation of GOD’S SOVEREIGN PLAN. 2. The GLOBAL CALL TO UNITY. 3. The INAUGURATION OF A NEW KINGDOM.
RESPONSE: ● Get in on what God is already doing! ● Notice the Spirit at work in you! ● Join the mission forward!
Discovery Bible Study: • Connection Questions: 1. What are you thankful for? 2. What is a challenge you are facing? 3. How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
• Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
• Offers individual answers to Five Questions: 1. What stands out to you? 2. What does this passage tell us about people? 3. What does this passage tell us about God? 4. Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement) 5. Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit wants to empower you every day to be a Jesus person. Acts 1:1-11
The Problem The Solution The Game Plan
The Problem: We keep asking the wrong question. (V6)
The Solution: You will receive power through the Holy Spirit. (v8)
The Game Plan: You will be my witnesses. (v8)
The most effective work of the Holy Spirit in our lives is the power of MARTYRDOM.
The Holy Spirit wants to EMPOWER you every day to be a Jesus person.
RESPONSE: • What is God asking you to do? • What will happen if you obey?
9am Gathering Romans 8:1-8
10:45 Gathering Galatians 5:16-25
Response: ● What is God saying to you? ● What will happen if you obey? ● Will you consider a DBS for the 5 weeks of October?
The Components That Make a DBS: • Connection Questions: 1. What are you thankful for? 2. What is a challenge you are facing? 3. How did you do with last week’s “I will” statement?
• Read together a short passage of Scripture (4-10 vss) that addresses the topic
• Have at least one member of the group restate the passage in their own words
• The group then offers individual answers to Five Questions: 1. What stands out to you? 2. What does this passage tell us about people? 3. What does this passage tell us about God? 4. Based on the passage, what is one thing I could do differently starting now and what would happen if I did? (each person commits to their action for one week using an “I will…” statement) 5. Who are you going to tell about what you discovered? (each person commits to having that conversation before the next meeting)
The Big Idea: The presence of God brings peace to our troubled lives.
John 14:15-27
Key Ideas: 1. Presence of the Trinity 2. Power to Love and Obey 3. Peace Within Our Hearts
Response: ● I will trust the Holy Spirit to give me peace in ___________. ● Who do you need to extend or offer peace to this week?
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit is the fulfillment of God’s promise to DWELL in and among His people.
God’s PRESENCE is the bookends of the Bible and the answer to how we live in the middle.
John 14:15-27 John 16:6-15
RUWACH /roo’-akh/ - wind; breath, a violent exhalation; blast of breath. PNEUMA /pnyoo’-mah/- a current of air, blast of breath, a strong breeze; or spirit. John 14:16-17
COUNSELOR: parakletos /par-ak’-lay-tos/; an intercessor, consoler, advocate, comforter, helper.
WHY ARE MANY LIVING A SPIRIT-LESS LIFE? • Some AREN’T AWARE of the Holy Spirit Acts 19:1-3
• Some RESIST the Holy Spirit Acts 7:51
THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL:
• COMFORT you. John 14:16 KJV
• COUNSEL you. John 16:13 Isaiah 30:21
• CONVICT you. John 16:8-11
The Holy Spirit’s Three Focused Topics: 1. Sin: Colossians 2:13-15
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Righteousness: Righteousness: /dikaiosýnē / “divine approval” - refers to what is deemed right by the Lord (after His examination), what is approved in His eyes.
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Judgment: the devil now stands condemned and we have no condemnation. Galatians 3:1-3
RESPONSE: • Welcome the Holy Spirit into your life. ○ “I bow my knees to declare that I am a servant of the Most High God. I lift my hands and pray, “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill me this day that I might glorify Jesus.”
• Seek His comfort, counsel, and conviction. • BLESS your Oikos through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Big idea: Baptism is a call to act in faith & obedience for ALL believers.
Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ Romans 6:1-11
baptizō (77 times in NT) - to immerse, to submerge
Children of God Galatians 3:23-29
So why baptism?
Great commission Mathew 28:19
Model the life and example of Jesus Matthew 3:14-15
Question: Why was Jesus baptized? •He wanted to identify Himself with humanity: Fully God & fully man. •He was worthy to be treated differently, but humbled himself.
Philippians 2:5-11
•To fulfill all righteousness in Him.
Righteousness (/dikaiosýnē “divine approval”) - refers to what is deemed right by the Lord (after His examination), what is approved in His eyes.
Response: Respond in obedience to the prompting of the Spirit. Mark 1:9-11 Luke 12:8
The Big Idea: Disciples of Jesus can serve only one Master.
Matthew 6:24 Luke 10:25-37
A Kingdom Concepts review: ● The Messenger is the Message
Philippians 2:3-11
● Paradoxical Power: Jesus accomplishes things in His own time and His own way: power of suffering love vs command and control.
● No Condemnation John 3:17
● Every natural idea you have about dealing with enemies is wrong.
● The King grows His Kingdom.
● God’s Kingdom is like a secret treasure worth more than the sum of everything you own.
● A Disciple is an “OIKODESPOTAI” /O-EE-kō des pah tye/ A master of the inexhaustible storehouse of treasures, both old and new, bringing them out to share.
RESPONSE: ● Trust God with everything ● Love God with everything ● Love people like you love yourself
Matthew 13:44-46; 51-52
The Big Idea: God’s Kingdom is like a secret treasure worth more than the sum of everything you own.
Three Parables: 1. The treasure in the field 2. The pearl of great price 3. The storeroom of treasures
The Treasure in the Field:
Two Powerful Secrets of Joyful Disciples: buying the farm and hiding the treasure. Colossians 3:2-4 Colossians 2:12-15
You must DIE to buy the farm with the treasure, BUT what you are killing is a life that is already DEAD IN SIN.
The Pearl of Great Price: The pearl merchant = Every man: searching and shopping for fulfillment, actualization, and purpose.
Selling all you have is the MOST SNEAKY and SHREWD business deal of a lifetime.
The Storeroom of Treasures: Matthew 13:52
In the New Testament: ● The word “DISCIPLE” is used 269 times. ● The word “CHRISTIAN” is used only 3 times.
A Disciple: ● Has found the treasure that produces joyful transformation ● Spends huge amounts of time exploring and enjoying the storehouse of hidden treasures ● Is an “OIKODESPOTAI” /O-EE-kō des pah tye/ A master of the inexhaustible storehouse
Response: ● Seek the HIDDEN and INVALUABLE TREASURE over possessions that cannot satisfy. ● Buy the farm: Sell all you have to purchase this treasure. ● Enjoy the role of OIKODESPOTAI - master with treasures to enjoy and share.
Matthew 13:31-35
Big Idea: There is nothing that can stop the eternal power of the Kingdom of God.
The Kingdom’s COMING and GROWING has almost nothing to do with us.
“Therefore, for every second of the time the world has been a world, it has also been the kingdom. Its progress through history is not a transition from non-kingdom to kingdom; rather, it is a progress from kingdom-in-a-mystery to kingdom-made-manifest.” - Robert Farrar Capon
The Kingdom didn’t just appear with Jesus. Jesus REVEALED the mystery of the Kingdom!
God’s Kingdom is ruled by Jesus Christ and grows by His Word and The Holy Spirit.
Colossians 2:9-10
“All we need to do, and all we can do, is simply trust that the leaven is, was, and always will be entirely mixed into the lump of our existence — and that it will infallibly lighten every last one of us. The job is already, if mysteriously, done: by the power of the Word who breathed out his life for us on the cross — by the might of him who, in the glory of his resurrection, forever whispers our reconciled names into his Father’s ear — we are as good as baked to perfection right now.” - Robert Farrar Capon
RESPONSE: 1. Trust Jesus as THE SOWER and THE BAKER. 2. Let go of CONTROL. 3. BE LED by The Holy Spirit.
The Big Idea: Every natural idea you have about dealing with enemies is wrong.
Matthew 13:24-30 Matthew 13:36-43
The Problem of Weeds: The world contains good and evil - good seed and bad. Often it takes an expert to tell the difference. Both sowers are counting on us to do our thing.
The Wisdom of Doing Nothing: Judgment hurts the wheat. Judgment declares an unreliable verdict on the weeds. Judgment reveals a lack of trust in the Sovereignty of God. The way of Jesus is also the way of wheat.
The Wisdom of Doing Something Acts 2:42-47 1 Corinthians 5:12-13
The Certainty of the Harvest Matthew 13:40-43 John 3:16 John 3:36 John 3:17 John 12:47-48
Response: Leave every verdict to God. Commit to being the people of God, together. Suffer weeds like Jesus, for Jesus.
The Big Idea: God is both hidden in Jesus and revealed in Jesus. Therefore, Jesus is the guiding light in every existential question.
Mark 4:21-25 John 1:9-13 1 John 1:5-10
God wants me to LIVE IN THE LIGHT. Amos 3:7
My three enemies PREFER DARKNESS. Mark 4:24-25
God wants me to CARRY THE LIGHT TO OTHERS.
With the measure that you use in your relationship with God and others, God will use that measurement to apportion to you – and even more!
What jar or bowl are we hiding the light of the Word under, that is keeping others from seeing the light? What is snuffing out God’s Lamp?
RESPONSE: Three Calls Forward: 1. HEAR and ACCEPT God’s Love. Mark 4:20
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Get off the PERFORMANCE TREADMILL. Colossians 2:23
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LOVE OTHERS like you love yourself. Matthew 22:37-40 John 13:34-35
The Big Idea: Your guilt is taken away and your sin is atoned for.
Mark 4:1-20
Two Difficult Realities One Powerful Truth Three Constant Enemies One Simple Job
Two Difficult Realities 1. Some people get it and some people don’t 2. To them that have, even more will be given but to them that have not, even what they do have will be taken away.
One Powerful Truth: The forgiveness of God is extended to EVERYONE.
Isaiah 6:6-7
Ephesians 3:2-6
Three Constant Enemies: 1. The DEVIL 2. The FLESH 3. The WORLD
We Have One Job: Remain in Jesus.
Life is not about accomplishing work but about bearing fruit
RESPONSE: Ask the Father to reveal the mystery of Jesus to your heart Fight the three enemies for the work of the seed Practice the GO lifestyle this week
The Big Idea: The Messenger IS the message.
Hebrews 1:1-4 John 1:1-5, 9-14
The Privileges of the King Philippians 2:5-11
The Power of the King Paradoxical power: Power that looks for all the world like weakness, intervention that seems indistinguishable from nonintervention. More than that, it is guaranteed to stop no determined evildoers whatsoever.
“The New Testament proclaims an unlikely Savior. The work of Jesus in his incarnation, life, passion, death, resurrection, and ascension makes no worldly sense at all. The portrait the Gospels paint is that of a lifeguard who leaps into the surf, swims to the drowning girl, and then, instead of doing a cross-chest carry, drowns with her, revives three days later, and walks off the beach with assurances that everything, including the apparently still dead girl, is hunky-dory.”
“God doesn’t force people to behave. God doesn’t stop sinners from sinning—he doesn’t stop murderers from murdering. Of course, he does make exceptions, but those are exceptions, not the rule. And at the end of all the doing, he simply disappeared, leaving as far as anybody has been able to see in 2,000 years or so: no apparent city, no effective Kingdom able to make the world straighten up and fly right. The whole operation began as a mystery, continued as a mystery, came to fruition as a mystery, and to this day continues to function as a mystery. Since Noah, God has evidently had almost no interest in using direct line power to fix up the world. Why? You ask. Well, the first answer is, I don’t know, and neither does anyone else. God’s reasons are even more hidden than His methods.” - Robert Farrar Capon
The Priorities of the King Matthew 4:1-11
Jesus accomplishes things in HIS OWN TIME and HIS OWN WAY: ● He turns 5 loaves and 2 fish into an all-time eat out for 5,000 men, plus women and children. ● Instead of circumventing death, he rises from the dead. ● He does take rulership of this world, but through resurrection, not political power.
RESPONSE: ● I Make Three Confessions: 1. I want to understand the ways of God. 2. I want to know and trust King Jesus . 3. I will follow King Jesus in spite of my discomfort with His methods. ● I will share my experience today with someone in my Oikos.
The Big Idea: The Father’s blessing satisfies the deepest cry of the human heart.
Matthew 3:16-17 Matthew 17:1-5
Fatherlessness is the most destructive pandemic in our world.
The enormous impact of fatherlessness in the world: • 90% of all homeless and runaway children are fatherless • 71% of all adolescent substance abusers are fatherless • 80% of adolescents in psychiatric hospitals come from fatherless homes • 2X more likely to commit suicide • 9X more likely to drop out of school • 20X more likely to be incarcerated
The cry in our hearts is greater than any human father can satisfy because we were made to know and be known by THE Father
John 1:9-15
In Jesus, we are included in the Father’s Blessing: • The pride of RELATIONAL OWNERSHIP • The boast of UNCONDITIONAL LOVE • The declaration of UNALTERABLE VALUE
We are authorized to give blessing to others, prophetically
Matthew 16:17-19
Response: • Receive Jesus • Receive the Father’s Blessing • BLESS your Oikos in Jesus’ Name: - Body - Labor (work of their hands) - Emotions - Social Connections - Spiritual connection to God
Romans 15:1-13
Big Idea: The Body of Christ is defined by the overflow of hope and love.
Acts 10:11-15
We are called to be like-minded, with Christ because the world needs a united Body of Christ.
Philippians 2:3-11
Be Like Christ:
- Unconditional Love
1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.
- Acceptance
Acceptance: To grant one access to another’s heart.
- Self Sacrifice
John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
John 13:34-35
How will the world know that we are Christ’s ambassadors? Nonsensical, audacious, impractical, and unconditional love.
Through mutual trust in Jesus, we will collectively overflow in hope and love.
RESPONSE: 1. Trust in Jesus completely. 2. Live for the good of the “Other.” 3. Pursue unity of the Body.
Big Idea: The unity experienced through the Gospel triumphs any disagreements of human conviction.
Romans 14:1-23
So what are disputable matters? Matters of conviction - things that your conscience has deemed right or wrong for you.
FOOD Romans 14:2
DAYS Romans 14:5 Romans 14:6
The importance to God lies in our UNITY, not our like mindedness on non-essential matters.
“In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.” ― St. Augustine
Weak vs. Strong Romans 14:14
“The conscience can make clean things unclean, but it can NEVER make unclean things clean.”
Romans 14:20-21 Romans 14:22 Romans 14:10-12
We are accountable to God, not man. Don’t try to be the mediator between others and Christ. We don’t get to decide what other’s convictions should be.
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
Response: Focus on the unity and edification of believers who have varying convictions.
Romans 14:19
Prayer: “Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love.” – Francis of Assisi
Romans 13:11-14
Practical Wisdom for Today: Understand the Time Understand the Forces at Play Choose the Greater Yes
Understand the Time: Kairos / kī räs/ “an opportune time for action.” “our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”
The Big Idea: Times of cultural chaos are times of incredible opportunity.
Understand the Forces at Play: (They are as different as Night and Day) ● Asleep vs. awake ● Deeds of darkness vs. armor of light ● Gratify the flesh vs. clothe yourself with Christ
Evil That Passes for Good: 1. Cruel certitude 2. Burning enemies at the stake 3. Self-righteousness 4. Entitlement
1 John 3:16
Response: What score would you give now? How could you clothe yourself in the Lord Jesus Christ? “Today, I will _______.”
Romans 13:8-10
Leviticus 19:18
The Big Idea: We have one debt that drives our entire social strategy and practice. ● To whom do we have a debt? ● What is the debt? ● How do we pay the debt? ● What is the power of honoring this debt?
“Debt” - An obligation to make a payment as the result of having received something of value.
To whom do we have a debt? To God Himself.
This debt never goes away because God continually pays it forward to you, so that you can pay it forward, too.
What is the Debt? To “love” one another
Matthew 5:46
“He that loves his neighbor as himself will be desirous of the welfare of his neighbor’s body, goods, and good name, as of his own.” - Matthew Henry
How do we pay the Debt? Love like God loves
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
My Father IS PATIENT. My Father IS KIND. My Father DOES NOT ENVY. My Father DOES NOT BOAST. My Father IS NOT PROUD. My Father DOES NOT DISHONOR OTHERS. My Father IS NOT SELF-SEEKING. My Father IS NOT EASILY ANGERED. My Father keeps NO RECORD OF WRONGS. My Father DOES NOT DELIGHT IN EVIL BUT REJOICES WITH THE TRUTH. My Father ALWAYS PROTECTS. My Father ALWAYS TRUSTS. My Father ALWAYS HOPES. My Father ALWAYS PERSEVERES. My Father NEVER FAILS.
What is the power of honoring this debt? If you love like God loves, you have fulfilled the law.
Response: ● Live debt free with others. ● Pay daily debts to God - LOVE HIS WAY. ● Pray for and expect opportunities for the Spirit to help you to agape your Oikos this week
“Revival is no more a miracle than a crop of wheat.” - Charles G. Finney
Romans 13:1-7
The Big Idea: A refusal to submit to those in authority is a refusal to submit to and trust God.
FOUR CRITICAL TRUTHS ABOUT GOD, AUTHORITIES, AND YOU: 1. Authority is a God idea. John 19:10-11
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Submission to authority is a godly decision. Ephesians 5:21
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Rebellion against authority is rebellion against God. Acts 23:1-5
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Your decision to submit or rebel reveals your level of trust in God’s Sovereignty and goodness. Romans 13:5
1 Peter 2:11-21
Submission to authority makes room for God’s blessing.
Rebellion to authority invites God’s Judgment.
1 Samuel 15:23
What About Civil Disobedience: Daniel 3:16-18
Is America a nation of rebellion? The Declaration of Independence: “The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.”
Response: Romans 13:7 ● Pray for those in authority. ● Give revenue, respect, and honor. ● Courageously live out your unbending commitment to God. ● Trust God for whatever comes - Jesus is Lord!
Resources: A Tale of Three Kings by Gene Edwards Spiritual Authority by Watchman Nee The Myth of a Christian Nation by Greg Boyd
Big Idea: The Christian Life is best lived with an appreciation and awareness that God exists WITH US.
“To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek him the greatest adventure; to find him, the greatest human achievement.” - Saint Augustine
Emmanuel Hebrew “God is with us.” Combination of the Hebrew expression “with us” and the word for God (El) from Elohim.
God WITH US in the garden. Genesis 2:25
Genesis 3:8 Tabernacle: Mishkan /mish-kawn’/ Hebrew “dwelling”
Exodus 25:8
God WITH US as Jesus. John 1:1-2
John 1:14
Matthew 1:23
John 14:8-11
God WITH US now in Spirit. Pleroo v. /plēroō/ Greek “to make full.”
God with us: make us complete, lacking in nothing. 2 Timothy 1:14
John 16:7
John 14:12
A Life Marked by God with Us: ● Clarity/understanding (Who God is) ● Experiencing God’s power (The work that God has for me) ● Growth & Maturity (The plan God has for my life)
RESPONSE: ● God Dwells WITH YOU. ● Open your eyes to the intimacy God has called you to. ● Prayer: “God you are here, you’ve always been here, now I am here with you.”
Nothing in or of this world measures up to the simple pleasure of experiencing the presence of God. - A.W. Tozer
Romans 12:9-21
The Big Idea: You love God best by how you treat people.
Love the fulfillment of God’s WHOLE law.
Matthew 5:17-18 Galatians 5:13-15
Your engine: JOYFUL in HOPE, PATIENT in AFFLICTION, FAITHFUL in PRAYER.
How do I avoid being overcome by evil? Overcome evil by good.
6 Laws of enemy love: 1. Don’t curse people – ever. 2. Make blessing your only response to cursing. 3. Harmonize with them. 4. Crucify your pride. 5. Provide tangible resources for needs. 6. Pursue peace with everything you’ve got.
What does a person have to do to believe this way? ● Their whole life is a living sacrifice to God. (12:1-2) ● They are an essential part of the body of Jesus. ● They trust and anticipate God’s power and help.
RESPONSE 1. Make your life a living sacrifice to God. ● Be dependent on Him always. ● Daily acknowledging his place and authority in your life. 2. Be his hands and feet to your Oikos. 3. Love well.
Romans 12:3-8
The problem with ME How Jesus sets me free from ME How the free me contributes to WE
“People with high self-esteem pose a greater threat to those around them than people with low self-esteem and feeling bad about yourself is not the source of our country’s biggest, most expensive social problems.” - Lauren Slater, The Trouble With Self-Esteem, The New York Times magazine, Feb 3, 2002
“If Christians lived out what they believed about the teachings of Jesus, we would all be Christians.” Gandhi
1 Corinthians 4:6-7
Sinful pride is the illusion that we are competent to run our own lives, achieve our own sense of self-worth, and find a purpose big enough to give us meaning in life without God.
“Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only out of having more of it than the next person. We say that people are proud of being rich, or clever, or good-looking, but they are not. They are proud of being richer, or cleverer, or better-looking than others. If everyone else became equally rich, or clever, or good-looking there would be nothing to be proud about.” - C. S. Lewis
“My drive in life comes from a fear of being mediocre. That is always pushing me. I push past one spell of it and discover myself as a special human being but then I feel I am still mediocre and uninteresting unless I do something else. Because even though I have become somebody, I still have to prove that I am somebody. My struggle has never ended and I guess it never will.” - Madonna
How Jesus sets me free from ME: 1 Corinthians 4:2-5
How does Paul do that? Jesus has declared the ultimate verdict, so he simply leaves the courtroom!
Romans 8:1
How the free me contributes to WE: I am free to use the gifts from God to serve the people of God to bring glory to God.
The Big Idea: As Jesus fills our soul, we become His gifts to each other.
Three adjectives offered as guidance to use your bellows: 1. Generously 2. Diligently 3. Cheerfully
Response: ● What is God’s verdict about me? ● What will happen if I accept His verdict? ● Who can I encourage this week?
“God, who needs nothing, loves into existence wholly superfluous creatures in order that He may love and perfect them. He creates the universe, already foreseeing—or should we say “seeing”? there are no tenses in God—the buzzing cloud of flies about the cross, the flayed back pressed against the uneven stake, the nails driven through the mesial nerves, the repeated incipient suffocation as the body droops, the repeated torture of back and arms as it is time after time, for breath’s sake, hitched up. If I may dare the biological image, God is a “host” who deliberately creates His own parasites; causes us to be that we may exploit and “take advantage of” Him. Herein is love. This is the diagram of Love Himself, the inventor of all loves.” C.S. Lewis
“Suppose there was a king who loved a humble maiden. The king was like no other king. Every statesman trembled before his power. No one dared breathe a word against him, for he had the strength to crush all opponents. And yet this mighty king was melted by love for a humble maiden. How could he declare his love for her? In an odd sort of way, his kingliness tied his hands. If he brought her to the palace and crowned her head with jewels and clothed her body in royal robes, she would surely not resist—no one dared resist him. But would she love him? She would say she loved him, or course, but would she truly? Or would she live with him in fear, nursing a private grief for the life she had left behind? Would she be happy at his side? How could he know? If he rode to her forest cottage in his royal carriage, with an armed escort waving bright banners, that too would overwhelm her. He did not want a cringing subject. He wanted a lover, a friend. He wanted her to forget that he was a king and she a humble maiden and to let shared love cross the gulf between them. For it’s only in love that the servant can be made a Royal”. - Soren Kierkegaard
The Big Idea: The only logical response to the radical love of God is a fully yielded life.
Romans 12:1-2
Colossians 1:15-23
Ephesians 1:17-23
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
How to Live The Transformed Life • Love God with everything I am and possess • Help my family to love God this way together • Share my love for God in my Oikos • Constantly renew my mind
My Personal Response: • What is God saying to me right now? • What would happen if I trust Him and immediately obey? • Who should I tell about this?
The Big Idea: We can’t always know God’s ways, but we can absolutely know and trust His heart.
Romans 11:25-36
Three Outlandish Claims: 1. All Israel will be saved (v26) Jeremiah 31:31-34 1 Peter 3:18-22
- God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. (v29) ● Irrevocable: “without repentance” “no regrets from the giver.”
● Gifts: charismata- Grace Gifts Genesis 8:21
● Calling: Invite to a task and a relationship. Romans 8:28
● God designs and guides history irrevocably, without regret, and will never change His mind.
- God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that He may have mercy on them all. (v32)
● God has designed and guided history—both its disobedience and its obedience—so that in the end it will most fully display the reliability of his promises and the magnificence of his mercy—to prevent human pride and produce white-hot worship.
“It is a gross error to interpret this as meaning that God has made sinners out of everybody so he can save the whole human race. “Mercy upon all” has reference to that mercy’s being extended impartially, and under the same conditions, to all alike. Moreover, it is “mercy upon all” in that it is truly available to all. Everyone on earth “may” receive it, in the sense that he has permission and is invited to receive it. This aspect of meaning is quite clear in Romans 11:31, where it is said, “They MAY now obtain mercy, not “WILL obtain mercy.” - Coffman
Romans 11:33-36
RESPONSE: ● What is one thing God is saying to me right now? ● What would happen if I obeyed it immediately? ● Who can I tell about this?
The Big Idea: Pay attention to the goodness and severity of God as He builds a people for Himself.
Romans 11:1-24
The Goodness of God: “God’s mercy especially towards those who are singularly unworthy”
The Severity of God: “The exercise of His goodness and holiness, which leads Him to sever from His mystical Body whatever would injure, corrupt, or destroy it”
The Four Subjects: 1. The Jews 2. The Gentiles 3. God 4. The Olive Tree
John 15:1-8
Continue in His kindness vs. persisting in unbelief: • We fall because of unbelief. • We stand because of the faith to continue in His Kindness.
1 Peter 2:4-10
Response: • Trust the Goodness and Severity of God. • Be The people of God together. • Tremble with gratitude.
The Big Idea: Trust in Jesus is the only essential and it is impossible to fake.
Romans 9:33, 10:1-15
People approach God in one of two ways: 1. Establishing a righteousness of your own
- Submitting to the righteousness of God ● Christ is the culmination of the Law, so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.
Deuteronomy 30:19-20
The essential good news: “The one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.”
Taking Personal Responsibility: Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth. ● Believe in your heart: Make trust in Jesus the foundation of all of your thinking processes.
● Confess with your mouth Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Response:
Romans 10:14-15
● Confess the goodness of God continually. ● Believe in your deepest soul that God raised Him from the dead. ● Preach Jesus - and when necessary, use words.
The Big Idea: God exercises His sovereignty to redeem all who trust Him.
Romans 9:19-33
- Paul’s summary of the matter: (v30-32) Gentiles vs. Jews and obtaining righteousness: THEIR PURSUIT is the point.
“Pursue” or “strive” = follow with urgency and intensity of effort.
God’s process of hardening some and having mercy on others is not arbitrary. Romans 11:22-23
- The Potter and the Clay Jeremiah 18:1-12
The point of the pottery analogy is not God’s unilateral control, but His willingness to change His plans in response to changing hearts.
- The Wisdom and Power of God Romans 9:22-27 Romans 11:33-36 (the Doxology)
Response: ● Stop striving to earn God’s mercy. ● Trust completely in the person and work of Jesus. ● Pray for and participate in God’s redemptive plan.
Romans 9:1-18
Big Idea: God has sovereignly decided that all who relate to Him by faith shall be saved.
A Deterministic View: All things, including human action, are decided by and determined by God, with nothing to do with our own will.
- EVERYTHING points to Jesus and the ABSOLUTE POWER of GOD’S LOVE.
What is the heart of Jesus? That all would come to faith in Christ Jesus, and be saved!
John 3:16 If what we are reading does not fit the character of Jesus or the heart of God, then we must not be understanding it yet.
- God’s covenant reached BEYOND the nation of ISRAEL.
Jews of the day understood God’s faithfulness to them in two ways: I. Their nationality II. Their obedience to the law
- God’s choices are SOVEREIGN, and AGAINST the GRAIN.
“Love” and “Hate” are hyperbolic terms to describe placing favor on one particular thing, over another.
God has no consideration for the common order of things. He has His own plan.
Romans 9:30-32
We (the Gentiles) are now adopted into the kingdom, sitting as co-heirs with Christ, purely by faith. Not your birthright, not your obedience to law. It is by faith.
RESPONSE: 1. Abide in Jesus ● He is truly the only one who can save anybody. ● Put all your trust in Him. 2. Walk closely with Him ● Hold tightly to His Word, and study it! ● Remember if you run into something that doesn’t look like Jesus, you may have to look deeper and ask God to give you clarity.
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit can transform our suffering through the certainty of our hope.
Romans 8:18-30
“One of the really interesting aspects of this incredible capacity for making up missing information is that it usually comes with a great subjective sense of certainty, and when we act on that certainty we can get ourselves into trouble—by sideswiping a cyclist we just didn’t see but were quite certain we had checked all the mirrors and blind spots, or by accusing a lover, spouse, friend, or child and reacting without first inquiring and getting all the relevant details.” - Dr. Sara Rosenquist,
Our mind tries to understand and fill the gap when we suffer:
• Life is supposed to be a glorious playground. • I don’t deserve this. • God promised me no suffering. • Life is supposed to be fair. • God is punishing me.
We live in a world of suffering for two reasons (v. 20-21): 1. We are subjected to FRUSTRATION. 2. Held in BONDAGE to decay.
This suffering causes a collective groan:
• The whole creation GROANS with the pains of childbirth for the sons of God to be revealed. • We GROAN, eagerly awaiting the redemption of our bodies. • The Spirit intercedes for us through wordless GROANS.
Deeply held beliefs are powerful foundations.
5 things that are absolutely true of you:
- God FOREKNEW you.
- God PREDESTINED you to be conformed to the image of Jesus.
- God CALLED you to reveal His glory on earth and in the heavens.
- God JUSTIFIED you so that you are free from condemnation.
- God GLORIFIED you, like Jesus.
How does all of that happen? Through SUFFERING.
Romans 5:1-6
The Holy Spirit INTERCEDES for us in accordance with God’s will.
Romans 8:31-39
SUFFERING is real. God is good. He will REVEAL His glory in us!
RESPONSE: Help your mind fill in the gaps correctly. • Suffering is my servant. • God is on the job. • He will reveal His glory in us.
Big Idea: Through the Spirit of Life, we are free from death and condemnation.
Romans 8:1-16
FLESH VS SPIRIT Death is not simply a physical occurrence, but an all-encompassing state of being.
The Spirit of Life brings us into the kingdom of God as true adopted children.
Roman law of adoption: Rejection of old life - new identity Entire debt has been wiped out - forgiven
There is no condemnation for you. Why? In Jesus you live in a new realm: The Spirit of Life.
FREEDOM FROM DEATH 1. Freedom from Condemnation Ephesians 2:13
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Freedom from the old nature: You live in new life.
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Freedom from the fear of physical death: Our eternity is set in Jesus Christ. We have an eternal future and hope
How do we live in the Spirit of Life?
Set your minds on Jesus Romans 8:5
We don’t put our focus on “not sinning” ; We put our mind to the Spirit and what he desires. Colossians 3:1-4
AVOID THINKING TRAPS 2 Corinthians 10:5
Ask yourself: Is this thought true? Is this thought helpful?
RESPONSE: 1. Accept your position: An adopted and loved Child of God. 2. Practice mindfulness - Take captive every thought. 3. Be led by the Holy Spirit of life- ● Follow Jesus! ● Love your Oikos! ● Have no fear!
The Big Idea: Moral rules can tell you you're sick, but they cannot cure you.
Romans 7:1-25 Psalm 119:165 Psalms 19:7 But… Acts 15:10
Freedom from sin and freedom from the Law go closely together.
The Point of the Matter: Romans 7:4-6
● We die to the Law so we can belong to another - to Him who was raised from the dead. ● SO THAT we might bear fruit for God. ● In the realm of the flesh, we bore the fruit of death. ● By dying to what bound us, we serve in the new way of the Spirit, not the old way of the written code.
Romans 7:21-25
The Law diagnoses my disease, but it cannot treat it.
Colossians 2:20-23
Galatians 5:16-18
We trade the law of sin and death for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus.
Our Answer: Romans 8:1-4
Response: ● Stop staring at the Law of sin and death, and keep in step with the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. ● Focus on the inside of the cup and not the outside.
The Big Idea: Freedom from sin is a birthright for Christians
Romans 6:1-23
Two Logic Questions: 1. Since grace abounds, can’t we just go on sinning?
LEGALISM is not the answer to LIBERTINISM.
PAUL TEACHES A BETTER WAY: Radical TRANSFORMATION IN CHRIST, through THE SPIRIT.
- Can those who DIED TO SIN, continue to live in it?
Clarity for the Confusion Comes From 3 Ideas: 1. Baptism 2. Crucifixion 3. Slavery
Baptism: ● We are BAPTIZED into HIS DEATH. ● We are buried with Him into death SO THAT body ruled by sin would be done away with. ○ (Life IN SIN cannot coexist with death TO SIN.) ● We too, along with Him, can be raised to LIVE A NEW LIFE.
1 Corinthians 10:1-3 Colossians 2:9-15
Crucifixion: Galatians 2:20 Galatians 6:14
Jesus’ death to sin is the FINAL VICTORY. There is NO SECOND FIGHT and there is NO SECOND FOE.
Slavery: There are two ways to leave a slave master: death or being sold to a new master.
We are not only justified from our sin, but are also LIBERATED from the tyranny of sin.
Obedience to God is slavery, for you are a slave to the one you obey.
Response: ● Embrace your BAPTISM INTO CHRIST. ● Continually CRUCIFY SELF-LOVE and cling to GOD LOVE. ● Offer yourself as a SLAVE TO RIGHTEOUSNESS. (being right with God) leading to holiness for slavery has benefits.
Romans 5:1-11 Romans 4:23-25
The Big Idea: Whether you know it or not, the Hero of your life is Jesus.
Through faith we have: ● PEACE with God
Through faith we have access to: ● The GOOD FAVOR of God ● The ability to KISS OUR CROSSES
Why Suffering is my Servant: ● Suffering produces PERSEVERANCE > Produces CHARACTER (knowing the genuineness of something by examination or testing) > Produces HOPE (high confidence) > Which DOES NOT PUT US TO SHAME.
Your Worst Time is Just the Right Time: ● We were POWERLESS. (completely helpless) ● Christ died for the UNGODLY. (those with no regard for God) ● This is how God DEMONSTRATES HIS LOVE for us.
Since we have now been JUSTIFIED (definitive, one-time action) BY HIS BLOOD, how much more shall we be SAVED FROM GOD’S WRATH through Him!
IF-THEN: IF, while we were God’s ENEMIES (in opposition to God), we were RECONCILED (restored to right relationship) to Him through the death of His Son - THEN how much more shall we be SAVED (restored) through His life!
Response: ● Make Jesus your Hero. ● Cash in your rewards. ● Offer Jesus-love to your Oikos.
How does one achieve a proper relationship with God? And having become right with God, how do I stay right?
The Big Idea: You can work very hard to try and make something real with God or you can live trusting that it is already real and live your life in the power of it.
Romans 3:21-24 Romans 4:1-13
Why do we struggle to accept this? What does Abraham teach us? How should we view our path going forward? Why is this so hard to accept?
3 Issues: 1. It is a PRIDE issue. 2. It is a CONTROL issue. 3. It is a FEAR issue.
What does Abraham teach us about being right with God? 1. You do not want a wage-based relationship with God. 2. The glory of God is that He justifies the wicked. 3. The quickest way to lose your way with God is religion. Hebrews 11:6
How should we view our path going forward? Hebrews 11:8-10
We are living with the hope of Abraham – a promised future we cannot see.
The bottom line: You can work very hard to try and make something real with God or you can live trusting that it is already real and live your life in the power of it. This makes all the difference in the world!
Response: ● Confess your utter need of a Savior. ● Thank God that He justifies the wicked. ● Practice ruthless trust in God.
Into the Wild, 3 - Escaping the Rabbit Hole of Depravity Jim Ladd, Jan 16, 2022
Romans 1:24-32
The Big Idea: The universal pathway of depravity must be intercepted, interrupted, and overcome.
People who want no god “enjoy forever the horrible freedom they have demanded, and are therefore self-enslaved.” - C. S. Lewis
This depravity spiral is a universal problem!
Romans 3:9-20
"The sins of the flesh are bad, but they are the least bad of all sins. All the worst pleasures are purely spiritual: the pleasure of putting other people in the wrong, of bossing and patronizing and spoiling sport, and back-biting, the pleasures of power, of hatred. For there are two things inside me, competing with the human self which I must try to become. They are the Animal self, and the Diabolical self. The Diabolical self is the worse of the two. That is why a cold, self-righteous prig who goes regularly to church may be far nearer to hell than a prostitute. But, of course, it is better to be neither." - Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis
The Four Compass Options: 1. The pagan compass. 2. The moral superiority compass. Romans 2:1-5 3. The Religion compass. 4. The Jesus Compass. Romans 3:21-25, 28-31
Response: • Give up every natural idea about how to connect with God. • Receive your redemption by faith alone. • Pray for someone you know, right now.
21 Days of Extraordinary Prayer SCRIPTURE FED, SPIRIT LED, WORSHIP BASED
Psalm 73:25-26
But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. (v.2) Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain. (vv. 13-14) Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. (v.17) Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside. (v.21) Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. (v.22-23)
Prayer – Inviting Jesus into the conversation you’re already having with yourself
Prayerlessness – declaration of independence of God
Proverbs 24:10 If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small. (NIV) If you fall to pieces in a crisis, there wasn’t much to you in the first place. (The Message)
Response What does that passage say? What does it say to me? What do I want to say to God? What difference will this make if I live it out? Who to share this with?
The Big Idea: Following Jesus into the wild requires us to reject lies and embrace the obvious
Romans 1:18-25
Today: What is the PURPOSE of the Wrath of God Why there is NO LEGITIMATE EXCUSE A SIMPLE PROCESS to change your life
God’s heart is ALWAYS seeking to drive us back to Him through repentance. It is ALWAYS for our good and not for destruction.
Why there is no excuse: Because the only way to miss the TRUTH is to suppress it
V20 - God’s invisible qualities have been clearly seen since creation, being understood from what has been made”
A simple process to change your life: Option A and Option B
OPTION A GLORIFY GOD as God GIVE THANKS to God. EMBRACE GOD’S WISDOM over your own. WORSHIP and SERVE the Creator rather than the creation.
OPTION B REFUSE to glorify God as God. Center your thinking around VANITY, FOOLISHNESS, and NO REGARD FOR GOD This will cause (passively) your heart to become darkened WORSHIP CREATION (people or nature) rather than the Creator. Consider every IMPULSE OF THE FLESH to be legitimate. SERVE THE SELF as the Supreme Guide.
This is a DAILY, HOURLY, and MOMENT-BY-MOMENT choice. Romans 1:25 - They exchanged the Truth about God for a lie.
God’s goal for you is perfection and the only power in the universe that can stop Him from reaching that goal is you. (C. S. Lewis)
RESPONSE: Option A or Option B - ask it all the time Pick ONE THING right now where you need to ask that question COMMIT to Option A on that thing, no matter where that takes you TELL SOMEONE about this particular option and how you chose it
Romans 1:1-6; 16-17
The Big Idea: The adventure of a lifetime begins with knowing “why.”
The Apostle Paul’s “Why”: ● I know WHO I am. ● I know WHOSE I am. ● I know MY CALLING. ● I know what REALLY MATTERS.
The life of adventure is BY FAITH from start to finish.
Galatians 2:20
Response: ● Find my WHY in Christ alone. ● Embrace MY CALLING. ● GIVE MY LIFE TO the person and work of Jesus.
Hebrews 7:17-28
● Why do we need a Priest? ● How is Jesus Christ the Priest we need? ● What difference will it make if you receive Him as Priest?
V25 - a key word that talks about Jesus’ work - “Intercede.”
“For years I looked at life like a case at law. It was a series of proofs. When you were young you proved how brave you were, or smart. Then later on what a good lover you are. Later you prove what a good father or husband you are. Finally you prove how wise or powerful or whatever. But underlying it all, I see now I always made an assumption that when moved on some kind of upward path toward some elevation where I don’t know what, I could be justified or condemned - a verdict at any rate. I think my disaster began when I looked up one day and I realized the bench was empty. No judge in sight and all that remained was the endless argument with myself. This pointless litigation of existence with an empty bench, which of course is another way of saying, despair.” - Arthur Miller, Playwright
1 John 1:8-9
“If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins” He has changed things forever so that now the very righteousness and justice of God demands your forgiveness.
Romans 8:26-39
RESPONSE: ● I will abandon myself to my Advocate, Jesus Christ. ● I will lean into His Presence and Power to live a new life. ● I will pray over my Oikos to find this same deliverance.
John 8:54-59 Exodus 3:13-15
The Big Idea: Jesus is the eternal I Am who is a “right now” Redeemer.
● Jesus is the Eternal God who met with Moses.
● “I Am” is only a fraction of the identity of Jesus.
● God defines His name in Exodus 6:1-8 Exodus 6:1-8
● All of the resources of God are focused on redemption.
I will rescue you out of the yoke of slavery. I will take you as my own people. I will bring you to a new possession.
● What holds you back? Exodus 6:9
Response: If this really is God’s Word - and Jesus really is the I AM, what changes must I make in my life?
“I am ______________” (What do you need from Him today? Where do you need to trust Him to be I am?) Ephesians 3:20-21
Hebrews 4:1-16
● The Promise of HIS REST IS REAL. (v.1) ● FAITH AND OBEDIENCE are the two legs of relationship with God. (v.2,6) ● It takes GREAT EFFORT to enter GOD’S REST. (v.10-11) ● The WORD OF GOD is ESSENTIAL. (v.12-13) ● NOTHING is hidden from Him. ● We have a great HIGH PRIEST. ● Therefore - let us approach God’s throne of grace with CONFIDENCE!
What Child is This?, 1 - Jesus, The One and Only Jim Ladd, Dec 5, 2021
Luke 2:8-11
John 1:1-5; 9-18
The Big Idea: Until you know Jesus, you lack the resources and understanding needed to know anything.
I bring you good news of great joy that shall be for all people!!!
- Jesus IS THE BEGINNING - of everything.
Colossians 1:15-20
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Jesus wants to bring you LIFE and FIRE.
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Darkness cannot UNDERSTAND or OVERCOME Jesus.
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HE TAKES ALL WHO RECEIVE HIM back to God.
Colossians 1:21-22
“So completely was Jesus bent upon saving sinners by the sacrifice of himself, he created the tree upon which he was to die, and nurtured from infancy the men who were to nail him to the accursed wood…” - Octavious Winslow
Response:
• Will you receive Him and accept your right to become a child of God - by His will and work? - John 6:35 “Sir, please give us this bread.” Jesus said to them, “Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
• Will you pray for those in your Oikos to know Him, too?
Acts 18:23-26 Acts 19:1-5
The Big Idea: Baptism is not a bath, but a burial and a new birth.
John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance - to prepare people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.
Repentance: /metanoia/ - “to change one’s way of life as the result of a complete change of thought and attitude with regard to sin and righteousness” “to repent and to change one’s way”
THE BAPTISM OF JOHN is a decision to CONFESS MY SIN AND REPENT - turn around and walk with God, by the Law, and do a better job.
BAPTISM INTO CHRIST JESUS is a completely different thing. It is to be born into Christ Jesus and to participate in the divine nature.
Romans 6:3-4
Everything you NATURALLY THINK about how to relate to God is WRONG.
God’s grace is given to us WHEN WE ARE DEAD, and good works follow. “It’s as if God were to produce a fresh, green tree out of a dry log, which tree then bears natural fruit.” -Martin Luther
Galatians 2:19-21 Galatians 3:1-14 Galatians 3:26-29
THE BAPTISM OF JESUS is a BAPTISM INTO CHRIST - joining Him in His death so we may also join Him in His resurrection.
Baptism is not a bath. It is a BURIAL and a NEW BIRTH into Christ Jesus.
DEPRESSION throws us into REGRET and DESPAIR. ANXIETY throws us into PANIC and FEAR.
Big Idea: In order to find peace in our life, we need to let go of all control and let Jesus do what He has to do.
Matthew 14:22-33
“When we focus on the waves, we not only begin to be overtaken by them, but we actually get in the way of the miracle that Jesus wants us to do.”
Philippians 4:4-9
God’s command: 1. REJOICE in HIM. 2. PRAY about EVERYTHING 3. FOCUS on all that is GOOD.
John 14:27
PRAYER and GRATITUDE are great SALVES TO OUR WOUNDS and STRESSORS of life.
What can we do? 1. PRAY, PRAY, AND PRAY. 2. SHARE with those you love and trust. 3. Get the HELP you need 4. Share your GRATITUDE with others.
It is okay to get out of the way, and let Jesus do what he has to do.
2 CORINTHIANS 5:20-21
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CHRIST AMBASSADOR? 1. YOU ARE THE FACE = PEOPLE SEE IT. 2. YOU ARE THE VOICE = PEOPLE HEAR IT. 3. YOU ARE THE LIFE = PEOPLE EXPERIENCE IT. WHO NEEDS YOU TO BE A CHRIST AMBASSADOR?
Live out 1 Corinthians 11:1- 1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
“Follow me as I follow Christ.”
Philippians 4:9 – “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
What are both of these verses speaking to? DISCIPLESHIP!
Discipleship is about LIFE ON LIFE!
Organic not structured Practical not theoretical Everyday life not a weekly time slot
Jesus MODELED this!
Mark 3:14- He appointed twelve that they MIGHT BE WITH HIM and that he might send them out to preach.
Implications? Accountability - You can’t lead where you haven’t been! Who in your oikos has GOD IDENTIFIED? SUPERNATURAL/STRATEGIC
Luke 6:12-13a 12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 13 When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them.
Who is in your EVERYDAY TRAFFIC PATTERN (your 8-15/ front row)?
Matthew 28:18-20 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Go (Greek) = “as you are going” 3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Psalm 13:1-6 1. We tend to BLAME OTHERS for our problems.
The Two Biggest Frustrations in the Christian Life: 1. God doesn’t act like we want Him to. 2. We don’t act like He wants us to.
Matthew 6:1-6 Psalm 139:23-24 2. Inappropriate PRIORITIES snatch our focus away from God’s PRESENCE.
“Prayer is an expression of who we are. We are a living incompleteness.” Thomas Merton
“Prayer can either be the steering wheel or the spare tire.” Corrie Ten Boom
- We feel like we don't BELONG in the same room with GOD.
Isaiah 6:1-5 Hebrews 10:19-22 Hebrews 7:19 Matthew 27:50-51 Acts 17:23-27
How Do You Pray When God Doesn’t Seem to Care? 1. Ask Him to reveal your shortcomings. 2. Ask Him to reveal Himself before you look for other options. 3. Recognize that, if Jesus belongs in the presence of the Father, that so do you.
2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Big Idea: In our suffering, we can find endurance by running into the arms of our Father.
Guarantees in Life: 1. There is GOOD. 2. There is SUFFERING. 3. GOD IS SOVEREIGN over all.
Our God is the GOOD SHEPHERD, caring for us every step of the way.
2 Corinthians 12:8-10
Deuteronomy 31:6
1 Peter 5:6-7
Remember: God will COMFORT YOU in your suffering. God will GROW YOU in your suffering. God will HEAL YOU from your suffering.
Response: 1. Take your struggles to the Altar. 2. Lift up those who are suffering around you.
Andy Raatz, October 31, 2021
John 4:46-53
The Setting: An IMPOSSIBLE SITUATION without a possible solution.
The Request: An impossible situation needs help from the only possible source—JESUS. The Answer: Man’s view of the impossible is not the same as God’s understanding of impossible.
● We can come to Jesus anytime.
● The first level of trust is the willingness to ask for help…for strength…for God to work.
“As long as you are proud you cannot know God. A proud man is always looking down on things and people: and, of course, as long as you are looking down you cannot see something that is above you.” - C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
● Trust is a process; faith is a journey.
"Faith is so rare--and religion so common--because no one wants to live between first base and second base. Faith is the in-between space where you're not sure you'll make it to second base. You've let go of one thing and haven't yet latched into another. Most of us choose the security of first base." - Richard Rohr
● The faith journey with Jesus will be dotted with miracles.
● Belief and Faith are built layer by layer, a deepening journey of trust.
"It need not discourage us if we are full of doubts. Healthy questions keep faith dynamic. In fact, unless we start with doubts we cannot have a deep- rooted faith. One who believes lightly and unthinkingly has not much of a belief. One who has a faith which is not to be shaken has won it through blood and tears--has worked his or her way from doubt to truth as one who reaches a clearing through a thicket of brambles and thorns." - Helen Keller
GOD…THIS WOULDN’T BE TOUGH! GOD…THESE PEOPLE WE CARE ABOUT NEED YOUR HELP! IF I WERE YOU…I’D DO THIS IN A HEARTBEAT!
Main Thought: A WAITING SEASON IS NOT A WASTED SEASON. John 11:1-4 John 11:17 John 11:20-22
WHEN WAITING ON GOD REMEMBER: 1) GOD’S DELAYS ARE NOT NECESSARILY GOD’S DENIALS. 2) IF GOD ALWAYS MET YOUR EXPECTATIONS, HE’D NEVER HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXCEED THEM. John 11:23-26 John 11:34-35 John 11:43-44
With God—Waiting Season Is Never A Wasted Season.
“THE SCENE OF YOUR GREATEST DISAPPOINTMENT MAY BE THE SETTING OF YOUR GREATEST MIRACLE.”
WHEN TIMES GET TOUGH… 1. Be Still Psalm 46:10 Joshua 1:9
- Maintain Perspective
We Must Remember: - TOUGH TIMES are part of life. - TOUGH TIMES can be our own fault. - God uses TOUGH TIMES in our lives. Romans 8:28
Butterfly Effect: (in chaos theory) The phenomenon whereby a minute localized change in a complex system can have large effects elsewhere.
Big Idea: God is not only Faithful in the fight you are in, He is equipping you for future battles.
The Lord had been preparing David for the battle. 1 Samuel 17:34-36
1 Samuel 17:51
1 Samuel 21:8-9
How do we stay Faithful in the Fight? ● ENDURANCE through the trial. Romans 5:3-4 Ask the question: “God what are you preparing me for?” ● Give CREDIT where it’s due. Colossians 3:17 ● Return to an AWARENESS OF HIS PRESENCE. Proverbs 18:10
Altars of Remembrance: ● God promised that He would always be with JACOB: Genesis 28:10-19 ● God rescued Jacob from ESAU: GENESIS 33:20 ● God gave the Ten Commandments to MOSES: EXODUS 24:4 ● GOD DRIED UP THE JORDAN RIVER so His people could safely cross: Joshua 4:1-9
Response: ● God wants each of us to have ALTAR MOMENTS; Moments we can recall to remind ourselves of the goodness and faithfulness of God. ● If you don’t have an altar moment in your own personal story that you can recall, turn and look to the cross.
Romans 5:8
Dare- To challenge or provoke a person into a demonstration of courage.
SURRENDER is the key to living the life God’s called us to live. Luke 9:57-62
The invitation Jesus makes to us is to follow him with ALL of our lives for the REST of our lives. The question we must ask is: Will we surrender our comfort? This raises another question: Will we surrender our security? The question for us is: Will we surrender our priorities?
“We must know exactly when we say yes to God what is in that yes. Yes means ‘I surrender’ totally, fully – our yes to God is without reservations.” - Mother Teresa
Matthew 13:44-46
First: The kingdom of heaven is of INCOMPARABLE VALUE. Second: Gaining this kingdom is an “all in” proposition. Main Thought: SURRENDER is the key to living the life God’s called us to live.
Ken Rice, October 3, 2021
OneChild is an international child development organization helping to meet the physical and spiritual needs of children living in poverty. Through the work of local partners around the world, children receive food, education, medical aid, and hope in God! To learn more about this program, and ways you can get involved to help a child in need, visit evergreenpnw.com/onechild
Chat – Have you ever had what you would consider a God given dream or vision?
Acts 10:1-8
My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.
John 5:17
God is ALWAYS AT WORK whether we see proof of it or not! God is always at work but WE AREN’T ALWAYS PAYING ATTENTION!
Acts 10:9-33
“Oikos” - household/family
God used angels and visions before this but what/who does he use now? PETER!
Acts 10:34-48
Our INDISPUTABLE PROOF = ONGOING TRANSFORMATION of our lives. Acts of the Apostles = Acts of the Holy Spirit.
The Big Idea: Your greatest influence rises from the intersection of your pain and God’s power.
2 Corinthians 4:7-18
The Four Elements of My Story: 1. The DITCH Jesus found me in. 2. The FAITH of my fathers. 3. The BATTLES I currently face. 4. The HOPE I possess.
The Gift We Give: HOSPITALITY Hospitality makes ANXIOUS DISCIPLES into POWERFUL WITNESSES. Hospitality requires CONCENTRATION. CONCENTRATION - the ability to pay attention to the other.
“For the other person to open and talk requires a withdrawal of the counselor. I must withdraw to make room for the other… This withdrawal, rather than going-out-to-meet the other, is an intense act of concentration, a model for which can be found in the Jewish mystical doctrine of Tsimtsum. God as omnipresent and omnipotent was everywhere. He filled the universe with His Being. How then could the creation come about?... God had to create by withdrawal; He created the not-Him, the other, by self-concentration… On the human level, withdrawal of myself aids the other to come into being.” James Hillman
“But human withdrawal is a very painful and lonely process, because it forces us to face directly our own condition in all its beauty as well as misery. When we are not afraid to enter into our own center and to concentrate on the stirrings of our own soul, we come to know that being alive means being loved. This experience tells us that we can only love because we are born out of love, that we can only give because our life is a gift, and that we can only make others free because we are set free by Him whose heart is greater than ours. When we have found the anchor places for our lives in our own center, we can be free to let others enter into the space created for them and allow them to dance their own dance, sing their own song, and speak their own language without fear. Then our presence is no longer threatening and demanding but inviting and liberating.” - Nouwen
Perhaps our GREATEST GIFT to our Oikos is to prevent people from suffering for the wrong reason.
Response: ● Be brave- show your scars and your story. ● Give the gift of hospitality to your Oikos.
Matthew 26:55-56 55 In that hour Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me. 56 But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
John 19:25-26 25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,”
A heart posture of worship is wanting to be NEAR Jesus. There are ALL KINDS OF THINGS that want our worship. SINGING is an outward expression of WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR HEARTS.
The Big Idea: The best thing you can do to spiritually help your Oikos is walk intimately with Jesus every single day.
Deuteronomy 6:4-25
Four Strategic Principles for Sharing Your Faith: 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 1. Your struggles QUALIFY YOU MORE for your mission.
2 Corinth. 1:3-5 2. GOD’S COMFORT is not designed to flow to you, but through you.
2 Corinthinas 2:14-17 3. Your faith has an AROMA to everyone.
“Share your faith, and if necessary use words.” - St. Francis of Assisi
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Response: ● Make a FRESH WALK with Jesus your highest priority. ● Make YOUR LIFE a Kingdom Embassy.
The Big Idea: Being a Christian is not a belief system, it is a transformational way of being you.
Christianity is an “EXISTENTIAL” thing.
We all know about “BORN AGAIN.”
John 3:1-8 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” 3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” 4 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” 5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 10:1-23 For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 2 They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. 3 They all ate the same spiritual food 4 and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. 6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. 7 Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: “The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry.” 8 We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. 9 We should not test Christ, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes. 10 And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel. 11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. 12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 14 Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry. 15 I speak to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say. 16 Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? 17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. 18 Consider the people of Israel: Do not those who eat the sacrifices participate in the altar? 19 Do I mean then that food sacrificed to an idol is anything, or that an idol is anything? 20 No, but the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God, and I do not want you to be participants with demons. 21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons. 22 Are we trying to arouse the Lord’s jealousy? Are we stronger than he?
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Mike Tyson - "Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Big Idea: Oikos cannot thrive where there is unresolved conflict.
How important is conflict resolution to God? 1 John 4:20 “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”
Matthew 5:23-24 “So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First, be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift”.
The Bible’s Seven-Step Model for Conflict Diffusion and Resolution: 1. Go DIRECTLY and IMMEDIATELY. Matthew 18:15 “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you.”
Myth: Time heals all things.
Ephesians 4:26 “... do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
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Go PRIVATELY.
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Begin with AFFIRMATION.
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MONITOR Your Mouth. Proverbs 21:23 “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”
James 3:2 “We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.”
Ephesians 4:15 “we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ…”
- Look for What You Can Own. Romans 12:18 “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
Matthew 7:3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”
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Establish SPECIFIC WAYS to Resolve the Conflict.
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REAFFIRM the Relationship (reach resolution) James 3:18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Response: Conflict can be a golden opportunity to strengthen the foundation of your Oikos. Where within your Oikos is there unresolved conflict? Don’t let another day go by where there isn’t resolution and reconciliation between you.
Joshua 1:6-9 The Big Idea: God commands us to be strong.
How in the heck do I “BE(COME) STRONG?” Three ways to Be Strong: 1. Repetition ● KEEP SPEAKING ALOUD THE WORD OF GOD. ● V.8 “Keep this Book of the Law always on your mouth; 2. Discipline ○ Obedience ○ Joshua 1: 7 Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
- Nutrition ○ Meditate on it day and night. ○ You will meditate - God
Ephesians 6:10- Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
1 Corinthians 16:13- Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith , be courageous; be strong.
Go back to TRUTH. It is a COMMAND.
Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.
Need inspiration? Who is the “Moses” in your life? Joshua 1:5b - “…as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will never leave you nor forsake you.” “God was with __________, so He will be with me.”
Do-nots:
● Do not be TERRIFIED. ● Do not be DISCOURAGED. ● Do not TURN to the right or left.
Hebrews 12:1b-3 And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Big idea: If you will not communicate well, you cannot Oikos well.
YOU HAVE TWO JOBS: 1. LOVE GOD with all you’ve got. 2. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR as yourself.
The Monumental Question: Who is my neighbor? Luke 10:25-37
The first decision: Be a FIRST RESPONDER or be a CLAIMS ADJUSTER. ⇒ Who is at fault? ⇒ What caused the accident? ⇒ What is the extent of the damage? ⇒ Who has to pay?
THE JESUS PATTERN OF BEING A NEIGHBOR: ● Step One: Protection and first aid. ● Step Two: Speak to the soul. ● Step Three: Correct and train.
Problem: We prefer the PERFORMANCE-BASED APPROACH to kindness.
How deep the Father’s love for us! How vast, beyond all measure! That He should give His only Son, To make a wretch His treasure!
How great the pain of searing loss? The Father turns His face away. As wounds which mar the Chosen One Bring many sons to glory.
Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer. But this I know with all my heart His wounds have paid my ransom!
The principle: Communicate grace, not judgement. Ephesians 4:29 Colossians 4:6 Proverbs 18:21
People will forget what you say, but they will never forget how you made them feel. “The Almighty appeared on earth as a helpless human baby, unable to do more than lie and stare and wriggle and make some noises needing to be fed and changed and taught to talk. It meant love to the uttermost for unlovely human beings, that they, through His poverty, might become rich.” - J. I. Packer
Response: ● CONFESS your own need of a Savior/Healer. ● COMMIT to the Jesus pattern of being a neighbor. ● LOVE God and Love neighbors
Luke 10:38-42
The most valuable and limited resource in the world is TIME. Where you invest your TIME, you invest your VALUE.
Big idea: In order to Oikos, you must surrender your time to Jesus.
Luke 10:38-42: Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
LIVING AT GODSPEED: ● LIVING AT GODSPEED creates MARGIN for God to speak and work in you. ● LIVING AT GODSPEED creates SPACE for your Oikos to be involved in your life, and you in their life. MARGIN is your pathway to REST and ENERGY.
People don’t need your TIME, they need your ENERGY.
SET YOUR LIFE AT THE PACE OF OIKOS: 1. INTENTIONAL TIME with the FATHER Jesus showed a CONSISTENT DEDICATION to time with his Father. a. Luke 6:12- One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. b. Mark 1:35- Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.
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SURRENDER your time
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Your ENTIRE LIFE is for God a. 1 Corinthians 10:31: So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
God has the supernatural ability to multiply your time and energy like He does our surrendered money.
RESPONSE: 1. Surrender your time. 2. Live at Godspeed. 3. Use your time to BLESS your Oikos.
The Big Idea: The formula is simple: walk really close to Jesus and supernaturally serve those He brings into your front row. Jeremiah 1:4-12
The Calling: Four Things That Were True About You Before You Were Born: 1. God KNEW you. 2. God FORMED you in the womb. 3. God SET YOU APART. 4. God APPOINTED you. Psalm 139:13-18
The Big But: Alas, Sovereign Lord, I am too _________.
The Secret Weapon for Your Assignment: Jeremiah 1:9 Jeremiah 1:11-12
B.L.E.S.S. your front row as a lifestyle. Believe for them in prayer. Listen to them. Eat with them. Serve them. Share your story. (and show your scars)
Response: ● ACCEPT Your Mission ● LIST Your Oikos ● B.L.E.S.S. them
The Big Idea: Christians grieve with hope as we face a death that has lost its sting.
1 Thessalonians 4:13 - 5:11
WHAT IS OUR HOPE AND HOW DO WE GET IT?
WE FIND BALANCE WITH TWO EXTREME TRUTHS: 1. Death is a terrible reality that is far outside of God’s design. 2. Death’s sting has been stolen and it now provides our pathway to greatness.
John 11:35-38 - Jesus wept.
THREE FAULTY PERSPECTIVES: 1. Grief is a lack of faith. 2. Death is the end and it’s all over. 3. Death is natural and a part of life and nothing to be afraid of.
“If we let him, he will make the feeblest and filthiest of us into dazzling, radiant, immortal creatures pulsating with such joy and wisdom and love as we cannot yet now imagine. A bright, stainless mirror which reflects back to God perfectly, though of course on a smaller scale, His own boundless power, and delight, and goodness.” - CS Lewis
Our Hope is unique in 3 ways: 1. The LOVE you’ve always dreamed of 1 Corinthians 13:12
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The LIFE you’ve always wanted We will “meet” Him in the air.
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The FORGIVENESS and RESTORATION you were appointed to receive 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11
“If you really are a product of a materialistic universe, why don’t you feel at home in a world where we die and disintegrate? Do fish complain of the sea for being wet? Or if they did, would that not strongly suggest that they were once not purely aquatic creatures? Why are we continually shocked and repulsed by death, unless indeed something in us is not temporal?” - CS Lewis
SO, LIVE THIS WAY: 1 Thessalonians 5:5-10
Response: ● Suffer with those who suffer. ● Party on in hope! ● Pray for your Oikos.
Ephesians 4:1-16
The Big Idea: Christian hope makes COMMUNITY possible and grows deeper through community
Let’s get this clear: How many churches are there in Olympia? ONE!
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We are called to live a life worthy of COMMUNITY
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Jesus gives the GRACE GIFTS we need to become ONE
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The POWER of a JESUS COMMUNITY is found in the CONNECTION of its members
• v16 - as each member does its part, joined and held together by ligaments - grows and builds itself up as each part does its work - each JOINT - the connection of two parts.
• We are, together, the TEMPLE OF GOD.
Ephesians 2:22 Ephesians 3:10-11 Ephesians 1:23
RESPONSE: • Repent • Restore • Govern your mouth • Serve your Oikos
Leif Holmes, August 4, 2021
IN CHAT – WHEN DO YOU FIND THE MOST FRUSTRATING TO HAVE TO WAIT?
Isaiah 40:28-31
WAIT: actual Hebrew literally = (verb) meaning to twist, stretch, with added element = tension of enduring
Romans 8:24-25 1 Peter 1:12
Command to wait is NOT PASSIVE, BUT ACTIVE!
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength" RENEW = “exchange for something better”
2 Corinthians 8:8-11 Big Idea: The hope that we have in Jesus should change how we see everything, including money. 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 2 Corinthians 8:8 How we handle money shows something about our faith. ● Money shows where we’re placing our hope. ● James 2:17 ● James 2:18 1. Generosity leads to more joy ● 2 Corinthians 9:6 ● Proverbs 11:24 (Message Paraphrase) The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. 2. Our hope in Jesus should lead to generosity Response -I will live with open hands -I will ask God what He is calling me to -I will look for opportunities in my Oikos
Romans 14:1-3, 14-15:7
The Big Idea: Cultural diversity is both an obstacle to and an essential ingredient of Biblical clarity and Christian hope. Sometimes you are right and sometimes you are wrong. The problem is knowing in real time which one is true.
3 Guiding Realities for Community: 1. Most of our conflicts are CULTURAL more than THEOLOGICAL. 2. DIVERSITY WITH UNITY is a very real and constant CHALLENGE for all humans. 3. Because of our CULTURAL BLIND SPOTS, we cannot see the whole Truth without diversity in our community.
HOW DO WE DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM? ● THE COUNTERFEIT SOLUTIONS: - Broad Mindedness - Power and Control
● THE BIBLICAL SOLUTION: - CRUCIFORM STRENGTH - Romans 14:19-20a
PRACTICING STRONG SERVANTHOOD: 1. EMBRACE TRUTH with HUMILITY AND LOVE. ● 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 2. SEEK RELATIONSHIP, NOT VICTORY. ● Romans14:1 “Accept the one whose faith is weak…” ● Carry the weak ● Romans 15:1 3. FIND EMPOWERMENT FROM HOPE ● Romans 15:4-6 ● Our Hope tells us that we will ALL BE ONE one day.
Response: ● Recognize that we have CULTURAL BLIND-SPOTS. ● Embrace the need for DIVERSITY in my community. ● Seek to join Jesus in practicing CRUCIFORM STRENGTH.
1 Corinthians 6:12-7:1; 7:27-31 THE BIG IDEA: Christian hope radically shapes our views and practice of sex, singleness, and marriage.
- A Revolutionary View of Sex: Two Views About Sex: 1) I have the right to feed my appetites however I please. 2) Sex is dirty and bad.
● The key to the whole subject is DESIGN. (v13)
○ Sex is designed to do this: THE FULL GIVING OF ONESELF TO ANOTHER. ■ Not a defiling but necessary mode of PROCREATION. ■ Not just an appetite for self-gratification or satisfaction. ■ It is SELF-DONATION- To give yourself so deeply that it results in personal transformation.
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A Revolutionary View of Marriage and Singleness: ● MARRIAGE is a one-Soma reality that mirrors and demonstrates THE ONE SPIRIT REALITY we can have with God. ● MARRIAGE is full of TROUBLES and SUFFERING. (v27) ● SINGLENESS is a valid option for a FULL and POWERFUL LIFE.
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Rock Solid Guidance for Navigating Your Sexual Life: ● What God has DONE ● What God is DOING ● What God WILL DO
RESPONSE: ● Anchor your personhood in Jesus. ● Flee sexual immorality.
2 Corinthians 4:7-18; 12:7-10
The Big Idea: Suffering is not God’s plan, but it is God’s servant in advancing His Glory.
- The Certainty of Suffering v16 “Therefore, we do not lose heart, though outwardly we are wasting away…”
- The Power of Suffering My sufferings are not only not a denial of Jesus, but they are a confirmation of Him.
SUFFERING HAS POWER IN TWO WAYS: 1. Relationally: “Death is at work in us but life is at work in you.” 2. Internally: Romans 5:3-5
“To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable.” - C. S. Lewis, The Four Loves
There is absolutely no way that greatness can be released in your life apart from suffering and loss.
- The Future of Suffering 2 Corinthians 4:14 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
Romans 8:18-27; 37-39 Let the glory of this WORD pulverize your discouragement.
Response: ● I will not just accept, avoid, or embrace suffering - rather, I will allow suffering to be my servant in the work of God in me and the world. ● I will place my life entirely in His hands, with ruthless trust in Jesus. (I will fix my eyes, not on what is seen but what is unseen!) ● I will seek to BLESS my Oikos, in their suffering.
Luke 4:16 Luke 4:17-19
Jesus came bring something NEW. We AREN’T CALLED to take part in CULTURE WARS. We are CALLED to REPRESENT the kingdom of God.
Luke 17: 20-21
The Big Idea: The certainty of our eternal future informs, directs and empowers our present life experience. 1 Corinthians 15:47-58
THE SHAPE OF GOD’S FUTURE FOR US:
Four Things we are certain to Experience in Our Future: 1. DEATH WITH NO STING.
“If we could be sure that death is annihilation, there would be no fear of it. But we cannot be totally sure. What people fear most is not that death is annihilation, but that it is not.” – Epicurus
Jesus did not come to bring judgment, but to bear it on our behalf!
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SUFFERING SWALLOWED UP IN VICTORY. Suffering isn’t repaid, but is completely swallowed up in victory!
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PHYSICAL LIFE IN AN ETERNAL MATERIAL WORLD.
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FINALLY EXPERIENCING THE TRUE YOU.
Response: ● Keep praying over our nation! ● ABC - place your life in the hands of our Redeemer King and your certain eternal future. ● Live among your Oikos through the empowerment of your Hope.
Mark 9:14-29
REMEDIAL FASTING 101: 1) WHAT is it? 2) WHY do it? 3) HOW to start?
1) What is it? Simple definition: Going without food for a specified amount of time
2) Why do it? Jesus modeled it and expects it. Matt. 4:1-2 Matt. 9:15 Matt. 6:16-18
RELEASES POWER of God in you and through you. Galatians 5:16-17 2 Cor. 12:9-10
Fasting makes room for God’s power to work through our weakness!
Mark 9:29 Daniel 10:2-3, 12-13
3) How to start? Go for ONE MEAL. Go for a DAY. (sundown to sundown) START SLOW, work up to more as the Spirit leads you. UNDERSTAND – this is a spiritual battle! Fast WITH SOMEONE, if possible
BIG IDEA: Experiencing Hope comes from knowing our confidence in Christ holds true over the surface of our circumstances.
Ephesians 3:14-21
TWO CONCEPTS: ROOTS AND ANCHORS.
REDWOODS- Who are you CONNECTED with and to?
16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being.
The outcome of being rooted is loving like Christ: We TRANSFORM into HIS LIKENESS.
Isaiah 40:31
1 John 3:3
Two OT words for hope used
Hebrews 6:19-20
● Trials will EXAGGERATE what is already there.
“The sun that hardens the clay also melts the wax.” - Spurgeon
People are not made in trials, they are REVEALED.
Hope exists where there was PREPARATION.
● HOPE is never as far as it seems.
● HOLD ON through the storm.
RESPONSE: When the surface of your life seems to be in turmoil, REMEMBER WHERE YOUR HOPE COMES FROM.
Hebrews 11:1
Plus Ultra - There is more.
Do we live a life understanding that “THERE IS MORE?”
Romans 15:13
Definition: Season of celebration.
Leviticus 25:8-10
What Jubilee brings: 1. Sabbath: It is a period of rest, for the land and the people. 2. Atonement: Begins on the Day of Atonement, forgiveness of sins by blood. 3. Liberation: The captives and slaves are set free, and return to their own people.
Luke 4:18-21
JESUS BRINGS OUR JUBILEE! 1. JESUS is the SABBATH. Matthew 12:8
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JESUS is our ATONEMENT. 1 John 2:2
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JESUS is our LIBERATION. Galatians 5:1
RESPONSE: 1. Enter into JUBILEE: Are there walls you’ve built that God needs to tear down? Are there burdens you are carrying? Do you still carry that old yoke?
- Share your STORY: Everyone went back to proclaim to their people the freedom that God had given them. We do the same because of the eternal freedom bought by Jesus Christ.
THE BIG IDEA: Christian hope is not a manufactured or fleeting optimistic attitude, but a confident obedience based on the certainty of the work of Jesus.
Ephesians 1:13-22 1. THE IMPORTANCE OF HOPE: Hope: “Life shaping certainty of something that hasn’t happened yet, but you know will.” Hebrews 11:1
- THE CONTENT OF HOPE - KNOWING FOUR THINGS:
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To KNOW the Holy Spirit as your SEAL, DEPOSIT AND GUARANTEE.
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To KNOW that hope is your PRIMARY CALLING.
- To KNOW that we are HIS INHERITANCE.
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To KNOW the Father’s great POWER AND PLAN.
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HOW TO GET HOPE: ● Ephesians 1:13-14 ● Isaiah 30:15
We become ANCHORED IN HOPE when we become anchored in the love of our Father, expressed through the work of the Son, experienced through the power of the Holy Spirit.
RESPONSE: 1. Choose HOPE as your personal calling. 2. Place your life in His hands - be HIS POSSESSION. 3. SHARE THAT HOPE with your Oikos.
In the Chat: What was your first job, and how did you like it?
Oxford definition of Vocation: a strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation.
Big Idea: Your vocation is about bringing the love and power of Jesus Christ into your current context.
Ecclesiastes 3:9-13 Genesis 2:15-16
Steward: "Utilizing and managing all resources God provides for the glory of God and the betterment of His creation"
Dominion: To rule over, subdue, and help something to fulfill its potential.
2 Peter 1:3-10 1. The Domains of Vocation: • Individual Domain • Institutional Domain • Civic Domain 2. The Direction of Vocation: • The goal of Christian vocation is Love. • Christian vocation is for the common good.
Joseph: The example of dedicated vocation to God. Genesis 39:8-9
“If two angels were to receive at the same moment a commission from God, one to go down and rule earth’s grandest empire, the other to go and sweep the streets of its meanest village, it would be a matter of entire indifference to each which service fell to his lot, the post of ruler or the post of scavenger; for the joy of the angels lies only in obedience to God’s will.” -John Newton
God wants us to partner with Him in this world!
RESPONSE: 1. EVALUATE the last 30 days of work. Did you add value? Did you show the character of God? Or did you tear down, complain, and create disarray? 2. CHOOSE to seek God in every opportunity. 3. LOVE your Oikos in your workplace.
In the Chat: Have you ever seen or been a part of a miracle?
Mark 5:24-34
Common Things to Overcome: ● Facing Disappointments ● Fighting Discouragement ● Falling into Despair
Three Common Necessities: 1. Nearly every miracle involves an APPROACH.
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The exercise of a little FAITH. Matthew 17:20
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Very little CONTACT. Isaiah 53:5
The Big Idea: The Church is called and equipped to lead the way in hospitality and community to a lonely world!
Americans have more technical capacity to connect than ever before, and yet we are more lonely than ever before.
1 Peter 4:1-11
HOSPITALITY is an attitude before it is a practice.
Two Cultural Approaches to Community: 1. An INDIVIDUALIST approach to community. 2. The TRIBAL approach to community.
Acts 4:32-35 Acts 10:23-33 Hebrews 13:1-3
Two things we must do to answer the question well: 1. REESTABLISH OIKOS AS SCHOOLS OF LOVE. 2. CLOTHE HOSPITALITY WITH THREE CRITICAL ITEMS: 1. Humility 2. Hope 3. Personal Responsibility
Luke 22:1-14 (*)
Response- Extending Hospitality 1 - Personally practice the attitude of Jesus - SERVE 2 - Begin with your OIKOS 3 - Seek DAILY GUIDANCE and wisdom from God toward hospitality
Isaiah 55:8-9
In the chat - share an instance when you were told no
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9
God’s NO is just as much a blessing as his yes! His NO is a positive, not a negative! His NO is an affirmation, not a rejection! His NO is a sign of his favor, not displeasure!
His NO might be even more powerful than His YES because His NO requires more faith and trust on our part!
Luke 8:4-9, 11-15
The Big Idea: Our formation began in the womb and is an ongoing process. We experience re-formation through habits of obedience carried out in relationships.
Understanding Re-Formation: ● The soil of fruitfulness is the HEART. Proverbs 4:20-26 ● The obstructions to fruitfulness are HEART ISSUES. ● The source of fruitfulness is JESUS. Jeremiah 17:5-9 Psalm 139:23-24
● The process of fruitfulness is HEART RECLAMATION through OBEDIENCE.
In our Culture there are two dominant models: 1. The self-discovery model of formation: ○ The goal is happiness. ○ The path is self-knowledge and self-acceptance. 2. The Self-improvement model of formation: ○ The goal is success. ○ The path is to cultivate skills, access resources, and solve problems.
The Biblical Model of formation: To live and love like Jesus ○ The goal of Biblical formation is LOVE. ○ The path of Biblical formation is OBEDIENCE.
John 15:9-17
How To Get Started: Use LOVE as your compass, the SCRIPTURES as your True North, and OBEDIENCE as your guide: Practices of mind Practices of speech Practices of heart Practices of body Practices of friendship Practices of service
Tonight’s Agreement and Instruction: The Lord, His kindness, and His bountiful power do not revolve around us. Our lives flourish when our they revolve around Him.
We want to FACE TWO FACTS and allow them to inform our paths forward. 1) God has SUPERNATURAL PARTNERS and SERVANTS. 2) These partners are not for us, THEY ARE FOR THE LORD. Joshua 5:13-15
Colossians 1:13-17 Isaiah 10:12-16
Prayer Focus: ● The Lord is with us. Period. ● We experience life abundantly when we are with Him. ● Gratitude, humility, and obedience are the sweet spot for us.
The Big Idea: Human dignity and flourishing are anchored in the Person of Jesus Deuteronomy 28:1-14
Acts 17:22-28
Jesus is our PATHWAY to FLOURISHING! The pathway to FLOURISHING is attached to the pathway to IDENTITY. WHAT HAVE CHRISTIANS ALWAYS BELIEVED ABOUT HUMAN IDENTITY? Genesis 1:26-31
- We are creatures of GLORY.
- We are creatures of SHAME.
- We are creatures of HOPE.
Our MINDS can be RENEWED. Philippians 4:8-9
Our LOVES can be REORDERED. Matthew 22:36-40
Our HABITS can be REDIRECTED. Romans 8:6; 11
Our BODIES will be RESURRECTED. 1 Corinthians 15:53-58
THE CHURCH must never, ever GIVE UP HOPE on any human being.
The horse is made ready for battle, but victory rests with the LORD. – Prov. 21:31
Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. – Psalm 127:1
The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, the weakness of God is stronger than human strength. 1 Cor. 1:25
This kind only comes out by prayer and fasting! – Matt. 17:21
26 Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy [a] when God called you. 27 Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 28 God chose things despised by the world, [b] things counted as nothing at all, and used
them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. 29 As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God. -1 Cor. 1:26-29 NLT
/In the Chat:/ If you could be a United States Ambassador to any nation on earth, which one would you choose?
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
The Big Idea: To be effective ambassadors of Christ in the world we must recover and incarnate the core confessions of Christianity.
Confessions are Confusing: ● They have been used as occasion for violence. ● They have been used to describe God as angry and hateful. ● Our culture believes fixed confessions cannot be trusted. ● Some Christians have made confession exclusively personal. ● Some see Christian confession as a call to cultural control. ● Neither of these is at the heart of Christian confession.
Christian confession is about relationship restored between Creator God and His rebellious creation.
Remember what we believe: 1. We believe in a Creator and Triune God of LOVE. 2. We believe in the corruption of LOVE. 3. We all have only a flawed ability to LOVE. 4. We believe in God’s pursuit of LOVE toward us.
Luke 10:25-37
● In the incarnation of Jesus, LOVE pursued us ● In the Ministry of Jesus, LOVE served us ● In the Crucifixion of Jesus, LOVE bore our suffering ● In the Resurrection of Jesus, LOVE secured our life ● In the Ascension of Jesus, LOVE governs us in wisdom now ● In the Pentecost (the coming of the Spirit of Jesus) LOVE equips us for the work ahead ● And in the Return of Jesus, LOVE will triumph over evil for good
Ephesians 2:12-22
RESPONSE: ● Anchor yourself in the story of God’s unstoppable love. ● Accept your place in the Body of Jesus to bring this love to the world. (Philippians 2:6-7) ● Start with your Oikos.
John 6:5-15
Big Idea: The limitless power of Jesus covers over our limited selves.
John 6:53-58
So Jesus says: He is limitless and he requires limitless devotion.
God’s limitless power, grace and love work in spite of our limited status. Jesus works his miracle through his disciples. His limitless power worked through limited individuals.
In Jesus Christ, we find our potential. Jesus Christ fills us with the Holy Spirit. This Spirit guides, fills us, empowers us.
RESPONSE: Accept that you are limited in power, but He is Limitless. Trust that His Power can work in every circumstance. Believe and pray that God’s limitless Power impacts your Oikos.
Jim Ladd, May 9, 2021 Finding our place in the world
In the Chat: What about the world drives you the most crazy these days? The Big Idea: We must rediscover our place in the world.
Ephesians 1:3-10; 19-23 (MSG) “How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He’s the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we’re a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth.
...oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!
All this energy issues from Christ: God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ’s body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.” . THE CHURCH IS IN AN IDENTITY CRISIS: We used to be ACCEPTED, EMBRACED, CELEBRATED, and HEARD. Now we are IGNORED, UNHEARD, DESPISED and DISTRUSTED.
SOME OF US ARE CHOOSING: ● FORTIFICATION: protecting ourselves and our children from the hateful world. ● DOMINATION: by seeking political power and gaining control to force our ways on the world. ● ASSIMILATION: by embracing the enlightenment of culture themselves as the whole world slips into the darkness of being completely lost.
We live in an age of CONTRADICTION.
The goal that guides us forward: To be the Presence of God’s Love in the world.
Andy Manley, May 2, 2021
/In the chat: After the NFL draft, how many people had compassion for you? /
Big Idea: Compassion and justice is an overflow of our faith.
John 20:14-15
Narcotizing Dysfunction - “…that as mass media inundates people on a particular issue, they become apathetic to it, substituting knowledge for action.”
Genesis 2:8-9
Revelation - Garden Like City
John 20:14-15 Luke 4:17-19 James 1:27
- TAKE A STEP TOWARD the people in our own lives.
- TAKE A STEP TOWARD the area we’re burdened for.
Response: 1. Ask God to bring back your compassion. 2. Reach out to someone in your Oikos. 3. Move towards where you care most.
In the Chat: Where are you when you feel most relaxed and rested?
The Big Idea: Rest is an act of worship because it puts the universe back on God’s shoulders and makes room for healing.
- SABBATH is a God strategy for growth.
Genesis 2:1-3
Two key words: BLESSED - Barak - A life-giving ability to make more life - to procreate QADOSH - Holy - A serious word - usually used for God.
The Principle of “FIRST MENTION”:
- Sabbath is DEFIANCE against slavery.
Exodus 20:8-11
Romans 14:5
Deuteronomy 5:12-15
In Exodus, SABBATH is an art form, tapping into the rhythm of creation. In Deuteronomy, the SABBATH is an act of defiance against slavery. In Exodus it is saying YES to God and His world. In Deuteronomy, it is saying NO to Egypt and its systems. In Exodus, we are called to JOIN God in His delight. In Deuteronomy we are called to STAY AWAY from Egypt’s way of life.
- Sabbath is an environment for healing.
Mark 2:23-28 Mark 3:1-6
Response: ● I will practice rest as a God STRATEGY FOR GROWTH. ● I will practice rest as a DEFIANCE AGAINST SLAVERY. ● I will practice rest as an ENVIRONMENT FOR HEALING. ● I will encourage someone in my Oikos to celebrate REST WITH ME.
Joshua 9:3-6 Joshua 9:14-15
INQUIRE OF THE LORD even when it seems obvious.
Bad choices can lead to UNNECESSARY BATTLES.
Joshua 10:7-13
God is in the REDEEMING BUSINESS.
GOD FIGHTS OUR BATTLES with all of heaven’s resources.
God can turn our CURSES into BLESSINGS
RESPONSE: Can you believe for God’s deliverance? IDENTIFY a situation where God’s intervention is needed.
In the chat: What was an activity you used to do with your grandparents?
Big Idea: Being an image bearer calls us to value people and declare his greatness.
Genesis 1:26-27 NIV
We are “Imago Dei.”
“There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilizations - these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub and exploit - immortal horrors or everlasting splendors.” -C.S. Lewis
The “Uncanny Valley” (Image from Polar Express)
3 Pieces to the Puzzle:
- Because of the Fall in the Garden, the puzzle has been dismantled.
Genesis 3:6-8
- We must reclaim our Imago Dei.
The true Human, the perfect human: Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:21
1 Peter 2:9
- Our lives become complete by the power of Jesus Christ. Fulfillment comes through Jesus - anything you do outside of Jesus to find fulfillment leaves you empty.
Ephesians 2:10
RESPONSE: -ACKNOWLEDGE the image bearing of all the people around you. -EMBRACE your image being fulfilled in Christ. -BLESS your Oikos.
“Bold prayers honor God, and God honors bold prayers. God isn’t offended by your biggest dreams or boldest prayers. He is offended by anything less. If your prayers aren’t impossible for you, they are insulting to God.” Mark Batterson
In the chat - What do you think of when you think of praying bold prayers?
THREE OT EXAMPLES: 1) David and Goliath ● 1 Samuel 17:45-47 2) Elijah and prophets of Baal ● 1 Kings 18:36-37 3) Hezekiah and Sennacherib ● 2 Kings 19:14-19
1 Samuel 17:23 1 Kings 18:21 2 Kings 19:.14
THESE TYPES OF BOLD PRAYERS WON’T TAKE PLACE: On a BATTLEFIELD . . . but at a BREAK AT WORK. On a MOUNTAINTOP . . . but over THE PHONE. In a TEMPLE . . . but in YOUR OIKOS.
Genesis 2:8-9
Big Idea: God has created us to partner with Him in moving the world forward. Question in the chat: What was your first job?
“Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” -Westminster Catechism
Genesis 1:26
Radah - To actively partner with God in taking the world somewhere.
Genesis 2:10-12
“Human beings are responsible for art, science, medicine, education, the Sistine Chapel, Handel’s Messiah, New York City, space travel, the novel, photography, and Mexican food - I mean, who doesn’t love Mexican food? But we’re also responsible for a world with 27 million slaves, blatant racism, the Holocaust, Hiroshima, the genocide in Rwanda, ISIS, the financial meltdown of 2008, pornography, global warming, the endagered-species list, and don’t even get me started on pop music. - John Mark Comer
Colossians 3:23-24
What makes me ANGRY? What makes me feel ALIVE? RECOGNIZE that everything we do matters.
Response: - FIND A FRIEND- talk to them about what you’re processing. -Go to work with PURPOSE. -SERVE someone from your Oikos.
To enjoy the Way of Jesus, I must leave the old ways that I love. Luke 5:33-39
TWO TOPICS: 1. NEW WINE must be poured into NEW WINESKINS. 2. No one, after drinking the old, wants the new.
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THE NEW WAY OF JESUS does not fit with or inside of the old way.
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No one, after drinking the old, wants the new, “for the old is better.” a. “BETTER” = “easy and suits me” b. My yoke is “BETTER” - easy and suits me. -Jesus (Matt. 11:30)
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The OLD WINE that people love: ● Forgiveness is earned. ● God loves good people. ● God hates bad people. ● God will love us when we get our act together. ● People get what they deserve and deserve what they get. ● Religion should be hard and painful.
PRAYER CALL FOR TONIGHT: ● Identify my “old ways” that are blocking the Jesus Way in my life ● Jesus, help me drink deeply of your NEW WINE!
The Big Idea: The resurrection is the proof of the finished work of Jesus and the demonstration of the power He offers today. Ephesians 1:15-19
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The RESURRECTION is the PROOF that Jesus is who He said He is. Acts 17: 24-31
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The RESURRECTION is the FINAL SAY concerning our inheritance. Acts 13:32-33, 38-39
1 Corinthians 15:14-19
- The RESURRECTION DEMONSTRATES THE POWER to live a new life. Ephesians 1:19-23 Romans 8:26-39
Response: ● ABC- ADMIT, BELIEVE, CONFESS ● CRUCIFY YOUR SHAME ● SERVE your oikos in the POWER of the resurrection.
Jim Ladd, April 2, 2021
Join us as we recognize the suffering and sacrifice that Jesus paid on our behalf on the day of his crucifixion, before we celebrate his ultimate victory over death this Sunday.
Tonight: How much of your walk with Jesus is entirely self-serving?
Holy Week - How did Jesus spend the week after Palm Sunday?
Monday: Jesus cursed the fruitless fig tree and cleansed the Temple.
Tuesday: Jesus confronts the Pharisees.
Matthew 23:23-28
Wednesday: Judas sells out Jesus.
Thursday: Passover meal, washing feet, and Peter’s warning.
Themes of the week: ● RELIGION is SELF-SERVING and is the ENEMY OF GOD. ● WHO YOU are is a higher priority than what you do. ● How you approach people is the REAL DEMONSTRATION of your faith.
Step 11: Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
Matthew 11:12
Palm Sunday reveals the JESUS REVOLUTION.
The Big Idea: Jesus is a revolutionary, leading an army of wounded healers.
Good news for the desperate:
Luke 4:14-20
If you are not DESPERATE then Jesus is of no value to you.
1 Corinthians 1:26-30
Jesus CALLS BEGGARS to HELP OTHER BEGGARS find bread.
Luke 5:27-32
1 Corinthians 1:26-30
We Learn the REVOLUTIONARY STRATEGIES of Jesus. John 13:1-5; 12-17
Luke 22:24-27
Our natural instinct is to fight our enemies while JESUS LAYS DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS.
RESPONSE: CONFESS your abject poverty to God. TURN YOUR ATTENTION to other beggars. PRAY for an Oikos member.
TENSION Non-essential: Definition: Not absolutely necessary.
Big Idea: The desire of the enemy is for you to see yourself as non-essential. But Christ has made us into Conquerors and Co-Heirs of the Kingdom.
TRUTH Who we are: Co-Heirs and Conquerors
Co-Heirs Romans 8:14-17 We have inheritance rights with Jesus. We share in his glory AND suffering.
Conquerors: Romans 8:31-32, 37-39 There is not ONE THING that can stand against the church.
/In the Chat: Vote between: Home Improvement, Friends, Modern Family, This Is Us./
When a life is well lived with and for Jesus, it is a life that most people will not understand.
Matthew 11:16-19
The Big Idea: We are God’s People, living in God’s Power, demonstrating God’s Love.
2 Peter 1:3-4
And do not forget that God LOVES using unqualified and disqualified people!
Joel 2:28-32 gets FULFILLED in Acts 2: Acts 2:17-18, 29-32
The Tribal Call: ● 1 Peter 2:9-12 ● John 3:5-8 ● John 7:37-39 ● Revelation 22:1-5
THE MOSES SCHOOL OF LEADERSHIP FOR THE CLEARLY UNQUALIFIED: Exodus 33:12-17
We are HIS PEOPLE, living in HIS POWER, demonstrating HIS LOVE.
RESPONSE: ● Practice DAILY ALTAR and STEWARDSHIP ● Practice LISTENING throughout the day. ● Practice IMMEDIATE OBEDIENCE. ● Pray for your OIKOS.
Luke 3:7-9
Do not confuse GOD’S PATIENCE with TOLERANCE.
Genesis 15:12-16
God will let His people SUFFER to EXTEND GRACE TO PAGANS.
We are HIS BODY.
Burning Question: For America, is “the ax already at the root of the trees”?
Leviticus 18:24-28
Luke 3:10-14
If it is, “what should we do then?” ● Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none. ● Anyone who has food should do the same. ● Don’t use your power for personal gain. ● Be content with your pay.
RESPONSE: ● PRAY for America and for God’s patience on our land. ● BELIEVE God for salvation and revival. ● PRACTICE irrational generosity. ● REFUSE to abuse power. ● LEARN the secret of contentment.
BIG IDEA: A life of meaning and purpose is more important than a life of comfort. /In the Chat: What was your dream job when you were growing up?/
Matthew 11:1-6 Matthew 3:4-8 Matthew 11:2-3 Matthew 11:4-5
Matthew 11:6 We’re not called to a position, we’re called to GOD’S VOICE. God doesn’t call us FROM SOMEWHERE, He calls us TO SOMEWHERE.
“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view.” - Edward Abbey
The Big Idea: God’s Word illuminates our path of life.
Psalm 119: 105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
His WORD lights up our path.
2 Samuel 22:29 You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.
Jesus is the LIGHT.
John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Isaiah 30:21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice (word) behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”
Jesus illuminates our path on a “NEED-TO-KNOW” basis.
/Chat: What is your favorite Rocky Film?/
Series Big Idea: Christianity has been neutered by becoming civilized. We have lost our identity, our mission, and our way.
“Civilized” - polite; well-bred; refined; of or relating to civilized people: easy to manage or control.
“But then the worst thing happened that could happen to any fighter, you got civilized.” - Mick to Rocky in Rocky III
Matthew 11:7-15 Luke 16:16
BIASTAI - violent person
The Big Idea: The Kingdom of God belongs to those who storm their way into it.
Mark 7:26-27 Luke 8:43-46
Jesus is LOOKING FOR BIASTAI.
BIASTAI HAVE: ● Desperation ● Humility ● Hope ● Gratitude
/Chat: What characteristics do you lack in becoming a biastai?/
MY RESPONSE: ● Do an honest assessment: Am I a Biastai? ● Do I have desperation, humility, hope and gratitude? (If not, why?) ● Talk to God about the results and the next steps forward for you. ● Pray for Oikos ministry this week.
Jesus never said, “If anyone wants to become my disciple, let them deny themselves, take up their cross, and lead a balanced life.”
Proverbs 4:20-23 Augustine said that a well-ordered heart is to love: ● The right thing ● To the right degree ● In the right way ● With the right kind of love
The Big Idea: Life Transformation is an inside job and flows from a whole heart.
We need “VIM” -Dallas Willard: ● Vision ● Intention ● Means Finding a strategy by asking questions like: ● How and when will I pray? ● How will I handle money in a way that draws me closer to God? ● How can I approach work in a way that will help Christ be formed in me? ● How can I participate in my relationships in a way that demonstrates Christ? ● How will I be involved in Christian community? ● How can I fill my daily tasks with a sense of the Presence of God?
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Classic test cases from our lives: ● Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. ● Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. ● Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. ● Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. ● Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.
V23-25 is a recap of the commanding principle: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.
Whatever you do in WORD or DEED in Jesus’ Name.
RESPONSE: ● For the next 24 hours - do everything you do in Jesus’ Name. ● After the 24 hours, do an honest reflection and evaluation. ● Set a reminder each morning to live that day in Jesus’ Name. ● Create and use a mnemonic device.
Psalm 91 What is the bulletproof life? (v.1-2)
How protection actually works: (v.3-13)
Conquering Confusion: when bad things happen to good people. (v.14-15)
/Chat: “Tell us what your biggest food addiction is!”/
Matthew 6:1-4
The Big Idea: Real transformation will always include the death of an addiction to approval.
Approval Addiction Symptoms: ● Getting hurt by what others say about us. ● Habitually comparing ourselves to others. ● A nagging sense that we are not important enough or special enough. ● Envy of others’ success. ● Trying to impress important people.
/Chat: Which ‘approval addiction’ symptom do you most suffer from?/
“At issue here is the question: ‘To whom do I belong? To God or to the world?' Many of my daily preoccupations suggest that I belong more to the world than to God. A little criticism makes me angry, and a little rejection makes me depressed. A little praise raises my spirits, and a little success excites me… Often I am like a small boat on the ocean, completely at the mercy of its waves.” Henri Nouwen
The alternative: A life of FREEDOM.
“One of the fine arts of gracious living is the art of living freely with our critics. When we have the grace to be free in the presence of those who judge our lives and evaluate our actions, we have Christian freedom.” Lewis Smedes
1 Corinthians 4:2-5
The Problem: We confuse our performance with our personal worth. The Result: We seek a kind of approval from other people that can satisfy only when it comes from God.
Galatians 1:10 John 12:42-43
My Response Game Plan: 1. I will take my APPROVAL ADDICT THOUGHTS CAPTIVE. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5
- I will quit MANAGING IMPRESSIONS.
- I will seek the SUPERNATURAL REWARDS OF SECRECY.
Psalm 81 V1-5 - We sing to our God!! V6-7 - I delivered you and included testing. V8-10 - This is what I ask (no other gods) - Trust me and my deliverance. V11-12 - A refusal to listen leads to a giving over to your own stubborn heart. V13-16 - The rewards of absolute trust and submission to God.
Psalm 82 V1 - God renders judgement of the gods. V2-3 Why do you get this so backwards and focus so poorly? V4-5 Be aggressive for the disadvantaged. V6 - The gods of this world know nothing and God shakes the earth!
Mark 12:28-34
God’s Simple Strategy for Humans: Trust - Light burden and easy yoke Submission - I was bought at a price Co-mission - Love like Jesus loves
The Big Idea: To have a shot at transformation, I must shatter my delusional sense of self.
Luke 18:9-14
This is a universal human struggle: a DELUSIONAL SENSE OF SELF.
Symptoms of a Problem: ● Vanity ● Defensiveness ● Exclusiveness ● Pride
Self-absorbed = How to be NOXIOUS IN THE SIGHT OF GOD. “…to some who were confident in their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else.” (v.9)
PRIDE keeps us from recognizing that we are the BIGGEST SINNER in the room.
The antidote is HUMILITY.
Luke 14:11
The fallen self is occupied with two things: COMPARING and BOASTING.
“Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only out of having more of it than the next person. We say that people are proud of being rich, or clever, or good-looking, but they are not. They are proud of being richer, or cleverer, or better-looking than others. If everyone else became equally rich, or clever, or good-looking there would be nothing to be proud about.” C. S. Lewis
Luke 18:17 “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.””
Philippians 2:5-8 “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who,
Four Ideas to Get Started: 1. SERVE someone who cannot repay you and TELL NO ONE about it. 2. BE AVAILABLE to be INTERRUPTED and when you are, tell no one about it. 3. CLOSE YOUR MOUTH and don’t talk about you. 4. Pursue the LEAST IMPRESSIVE PERSON in the room and LEARN SOMETHING.
Exodus 6:1-9
TONIGHT’S OBJECTIVES: ● A greater grasp on the SIZE OF OUR GOD. ● Clean out our ears so that we might LISTEN BETTER.
“God Almighty” - El Shaddai - The Self-Sufficient and Almighty One
The Lord = “I AM who I AM”
Exodus 3:14
● THEREFORE - because of who I AM: ○ I will bring you out from under the YOKE OF SLAVERY. ○ I will REDEEM YOU with mighty acts of judgement. ○ I will take you as MY OWN PEOPLE. ○ I will be YOUR GOD. ○ Then you will KNOW ○ I will bring you to the PROMISED LAND as your possession.
● I AM THE LORD.
“Moses reported this to the Israelites, but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labor.”
Silence our discouragement. Pause from our harsh labor. Let’s stare at the LORD - the Sovereign and Almighty One.
● He will bring you out from under. ● He will redeem you. ● He will take you as His own. ● He will be your God. ● You will KNOW Him and His goodness. ● He will bring you to the promised place of provision
Mark 2:1-12 Mark 10:45
The significance of a name. The power of friends What does your faith look like? Faith must be seen. What is your faith doing? Sin diminishes, torments, destroys, and kills. The real human issue: sin. The key idea: That you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. How will you respond to truth?
/Chat: What team were you hoping to make it to the Superbowl this year?/
The Big Idea: : It’s time to identify our giant, run to the battle line, and engage in our victory.
1 Samuel 17:20-24
David HEARD the giant’s defiance and it caused him to rise to COURAGE. The Israelite army were AFRAID and FLED in FEAR. No one believed that David was EQUIPPED to fight the giant. There will be voices (sometimes your own) telling you, “YOU CANT.”
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
REFLECT on the VICTORIES God has given you.
THREE WAYS DAVID FACED HIS GIANT: 1. In the NAME of the Lord. V45 2. With the weapons/tools He was SKILLED in using. 3. He faced his giant with CONFIDENCE.
All will know that the LORD SAVES. YOUR GIANT comes to the BATTLE LINE. It’s time for some of us to IDENTIFY our GIANT.
“Many Christians are unthinkably horrified when a real sinner is suddenly discovered among the righteous. So we remain alone with our sin, living in lies and hypocrisy...He who is alone with his sins is utterly alone.” - Dietrich Bonhoefer
The Big Idea: Confession is the antidote to shame. James 5:13-20
The healthy soul is the source of powerful prayer. Shame is the universal sense of self for humans and it is the birthplace of all of our fears.
We all want desperately to hide and yet we also desperately want to be fully known and loved. When we practice confession, two things happen: 1. We are liberated from guilt. 2. We are more empowered for victory over sin. The Four Steps of Confession: 1. Self-examination ● Perception - see our sin through the eyes of the one we sinned against. Why did I do what I did? What happened as a result of my sin?
- Governing our Sorrow James 4:8-10 2 Corinthians 7:9-11
- A New Promise
- Receive Healing Grace
Genesis 40:23 Genesis 41:1
Delay does not mean denial. God can change your prison sentence into a powerful deliverance in a single night.
Genesis 41:41-43
Luke 15:20-24
The Ring - The signet ring of the family reputation and fortune fully entrusted to him. The Robe - The best robe. The Royal Treatment - Killed the fattened calf and had a massive celebration.
The greatest news of all time: Your heavenly Father treats you with the reward of Joseph even though you earned your prison sentence.
Response: ● Make the confession of the prodigal. ● Receive the embrace of the Father. ● Envision your own inauguration into the Royal Family. ● Worship God with profound gratitude.
Jim Ladd, January 24, 2021
WE CAN LEARN TO LISTEN TO GOD
THE BIG IDEA: I MUST LEARN TO HEAR GOD WHEN HE SPEAKS TO ME.
“IN OUR DAY HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE ON TIPTOE WAITING FOR THE EMERGING OF A SPIRIT-LED, SPIRIT-INTOXICATED, SPIRIT-EMPOWERED PEOPLE. ALL OF CREATION WATCHES EXPECTANTLY FOR THE SPRINGING UP OF A DISCIPLINED, FREELY GATHERED, MARTYR PEOPLE WHO KNOW IN THIS LIFE THE LIFE AND POWER OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD. IT HAS HAPPENED BEFORE. IT CAN HAPPEN AGAIN.” RICHARD FOSTER
ACTS 13:1-3 ACTS 16:6-10
STEP ONE: MOVE FROM SPIRITUAL MINDLESSNESS TO MINDFULNESS.
THREE COMMON MISTAKES: 1. LOOKING FOR INSIDER INFORMATION 2. LOOKING FOR A BADGE OF SPIRITUALITY OR IMPORTANCE 3. LOOKING TO AVOID RISKS
STEP 11 OF 12-STEPS: SEEK THROUGH PRAYER AND MEDITATION TO IMPROVE OUR CONSCIOUS CONTACT WITH GOD, PRAYING ONLY FOR THE KNOWLEDGE OF HIS WILL AND THE POWER TO CARRY THAT OUT.
HELP MOVING FORWARD: ● LISTEN FOR THE SPIRIT CONTINUALLY. ● BE RELENTLESSLY RESPONSIVE. ● LISTEN FOR THE SPIRIT’S VOICE IN THE WORDS OF OTHERS ● PRACTICE LISTENING IN SMALL MATTERS. ● ASK GOD QUESTIONS AND QUIT TALKING. ○ WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN TRYING TO TEACH ME OVER THE PAST 30 DAYS? ○ WHAT IS THE COURAGEOUS THING I SHOULD CONSIDER DOING? ○ WHO IN MY OIKOS NEEDS ME RIGHT NOW? ○ WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT THREE THINGS I SHOULD FOCUS ON? ○ WHAT IS HOLDING ME BACK FROM BEING MORE WITH YOU?
RESPONSE: ● I WILL PRACTICE LISTENING. ● I WILL BE A RELENTLESS RESPONDER ● I WILL ENCOURAGE ________ IN MY OIKOS
Matthew 19:26b
Something that is impossible with man is absolutely possible with God.
BUT, with God all things are possible!
GO SELL GIVE AWAY DISCOVER FOLLOW
● What piece of your identity, security, and trust is holding you back? ● What must you give away that is impossible for you to give away? ● Are you willing to allow Jesus to help you give it away?
Will you: ● GO somewhere you’ve never gone? ● SELL what is most meaningful and empowering to you? ● GIVE AWAY to the powerless or poor? ● DISCOVER the most amazing treasure you’ve ever known? ● FOLLOW Jesus?
WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE.
The Big Idea: Your actionable decisions flow from your deeply held beliefs.
Exodus 33:12b-14
Matthew 11:28-30
John 14:25-27
Psalm 23 - The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing! He leads me beside still waters, makes me lie down in green pastures, and restores my soul.
Many Christians are making actionable decisions from a non-biblical set of core beliefs
Six Calibrating Beliefs That Must Guide Our Actions: We belong to Jesus Christ and His Kingdom Our American citizenship is a stewardship issue, not an identity issue We are politically homeless Our call is to a cruciform life There is no “Us and Them” God is Sovereign and superintending His Story
RESPONSE: I will seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness I will live a cruciform posture in the world I will encourage __________ in my Oikos
Romans 8 - Life governed by the Spirit is life and peace!
Matthew 6:19-34
TREASURE: ● Treasure management proceeds heart management.
EYES: ● The health of your eyes determines the light in your soul.
SLAVERY: ● You cannot serve two masters.
WORRY: ● Worry is the indicator that the first three are misaligned
Steps Forward: ● Accept reality. ● Become politically homeless: ● Trust in the Lord your God and serve Him only. ● Remain calm -the children are watching. ● Stop talking about it and only pray about it. ● Stop praying for deliverance and start praying for courageous strength.
"Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer
IT IS ABOUT TRAINING VS TRYING 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 THE BIG IDEA: Following Jesus simply means learning from Him how to arrange my life in ways that enable me to live in the fruit of the Spirit.
THREE LIES ABOUT SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES: Spiritual disciplines are a barometer of spirituality Spiritual disciplines are unpleasant Spiritual disciplines are a way to earn favor with God
Discipline: Any activity I can do by direct effort that will help me do what I cannot now do by direct effort.
Spiritual Discipline: Any activity that can help me gain power to live life as Jesus taught and modeled it.
The Discipline of CELEBRATION
John 16:21-24 Philippians 4:4-7
Joy is not optional. Joy is a command.
Nehemiah 8:9-12
LET’S GET STARTED: I must take responsibility for my joy. I must do it TODAY I must turn off the TV. I must change my thinking patterns I must anchor my joy to the One who loves me
RESPONSE: I will rejoice in the Lord today I will take responsibility to find joy every day I will help ___________ from my Oikos to find some joy today
Ephesians 2:1-10 The Big Idea: Transformation IS possible and hope is the fuel for the process.
THE FOUR “FIRSTS” IN THIS QUEST:
THE FIRST PARADIGM SHIFT: God is not interested in your spiritual life.
“Poiema” - God’s work of art.
THE FIRST ACTION: TURN ASIDE
Exodus 3
2 Corinthians 3:18 “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
THE FIRST GOAL: REAL transformation.
Morphoo - “The inward and real formation of the essential nature of a person”
Romans 8:29
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
“If you are weary of some sleepy form of devotion, probably God is as weary of it as you are.” - Frank Laubach
THE FIRST DANGER: Pseudo Transformation
The strongest argument for Christianity is Christians. The strongest argument against Christianity is Christians.
Response: • I will believe for and seek real transformation. • I will turn aside with God. • I will encourage ___________ from my Oikos with this hope.
The Big Idea: Jesus can offer perfect peace because He is the Perfect Priest.
John 14:27
Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in PERFECT PEACE those whose minds are STEADFAST, because they TRUST IN YOU.”
Hebrews 7:16-28
Perfect peace comes only through a PERFECT PRIEST.
Open the gift of Jesus and His Redemptive work.
Big Idea: We can find security in an Everlasting Father.
Isaiah 9:6-7
Isaiah 9:1-2
John 15:4
Matthew 9:35
IN THE CHAT: What motivates you or helps you get up in the morning?
John 11:32-35
How we exercise COMPASSION: 1. WEEP and share in the sorrow. Romans 12:15 NAS
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GIVE of what you have. Matthew 23:37-38
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Serve with COMPASSION.
Our response:
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Pray for God to change my heart and open my eyes.
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Ask God to prompt my response.
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What’s my time frame?
Isaiah 9:6-7
Mighty = One who magnifies Himself; bold and audacious. God = Singular, absolute. Without equal or compare
God never aligns Himself with the world’s understanding of power.
The Cross is both the WORK OF GOD and the REVELATION OF GOD.
Philippians 2:6-11
The devices of your captivity have been SHATTERED and lie on the ground!
The greatest evidence of unstoppable power is SELF-FORGETFULNESS.
Ephesians 1:18-23
Response: Ask God to see and live according to God’s power and not your own.
Isaiah 9:1-7
Why do we so desperately need a Counselor? Isaiah 1:2-3
What makes Him Wonderful? He has the only accurate Perspective.
What is a Counselor? He helps me see clearly and navigate wisely.
THE WISE ADVICE OF THE WONDERFUL COUNSELOR: 1. Deal with the self.
Isaiah 1:16-20
- Never leave your Counselor. John 16:12-15 Proverbs 3:5-6 Psalm 23:1
Response: 1. Confess and repent. 2. Keep walking with the Counselor.
PROBLEM: SALVATION HAS BEEN DESCRIBED AND UNDERSTOOD ALMOST ENTIRELY FROM A LEGAL FRAMEWORK.
5 Things: 1. GOD IS LIGHT. ● 1 John 1:5
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IF = HOW ● 1 John 1:6-7
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CURRENT CONFESSION IS CENTRAL TO A LIFE WITH GOD. ● 1 John 1:8-10
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WE KNOW THAT WE KNOW WHEN WE OBEY. ● 1 John 2:3-6
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THE KEY INDICATOR OF OBEDIENCE TO GOD IS THE PRESENCE OF LOVE AND THE ABSENCE OF HATE. ● 1 John 2:9-11
Big Idea: Jesus transforms us when we submit our pain to Him.
Romans 8:18-25
How should we process pain?
• Pain is universal. • Pain must be processed.
Our Hope in Jesus.
The Glory of God will be revealed in us because of our suffering.
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Pain must be processed. 1 Peter 4:1
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We process pain through the hope we have in Jesus.
What needs processing in your own life?
Live | Dead is a missions organization that focuses on spreading the Word of God to places all over the world that are completely unreached.
Isaiah 43:1-7
God is the worthy and safe One!
Ezekiel 23
Misplaced trust is a gross perversion.
Misplaced trust leads to captivity.
God can defeat anyone and anything with nothing but Himself. Any time He wants to.
Ezekiel 37:1-14
2 Kings 6:24 -7
In The Chat: What is the hardest personal boundary for you to protect?
John 13:34-35 John 2:24
1 Peter 2:23 Genesis 1:26-31 Ownership of the Self: IDENTITY - PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY - DEFINITION Life is a TEST, life is a TRUST, and life is a TEMPORARY ASSIGNMENT.
Boundaries are crossed: ● Whenever we make someone else’s choices for them. ● Whenever we think someone else is responsible for making choices for us.
Matthew 7:28-29
Mark 1:22 Luke 4:32. Mark 1:22 Luke 4:32
Jesus HEALED – with authority. Matthew 9:8 Mark 1:27 Luke 4:36
“Don’t DISCOUNT yourself.”
Authority- rightful, actual, unimpeded power to act, to possess, control, use or dispose of.
Matthew 28:18 Matthew 10:1
Three takeaways: 1. Jesus can GIVE what He has been given. 2. Know that you QUALIFY as a recipient. 3. Have SHAMELESS AUDACITY in your asking.
Luke 11:8
In the Chat: Who has been the most powerful influence in your life?
The Four Essential Functions of Emotional Health: 1. Relational Connection 2. Relational Disconnection 3. Processing Pain 4. Adult Competencies
How do you grow a human? God is Love and Love only finds expression in relationships. There are only two human realities in the world: Life and Death.
Ephesians 4:3-6
Why is this so hard for us to achieve? ● Because our core emotion is FEAR ● Because our core motivation is NAKEDNESS ● Because our core strategy is to HIDE
Response: ● What will I do in the next 24 hours to move toward connection?
John 8:2-12
There was a HUGE crowd - “all the people gathered around Him.”
What did He write in the sand?
They kept questioning Him.
Jesus caught everyone!
The crowd was also condemned.
I am caught, too.
Luke 9:52-56 Matthew 22:36-40
● If we love people, we love God. ● If we do not love people, we are not loving God.
Luke 13:6-9
God’s process of restoration: Grace + Truth + Time
Grace Philippians 1:3-11 Ecclesiastes 7:1-4
Truth 2 Peter 1:2-11
1 Peter 4:8-10
Time 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
MY RESPONSE: • I will give myself to the Grace of God and begin to process my brokenness • I will pursue the Truth about God, me, and my restoration process. • I will embrace the process of healing with patience and hope. • I will extend grace to those who need the grace that I need.
John 4:13-14
John 6:30-35
The Questions We Must Answer: ● What did Jesus mean and am I experiencing it? ● What hungers and thirsts does Jesus intend to satisfy or eliminate? ● What do my appetites tell me about the condition of my faith? The key may be to replace our appetites, not eliminate them.
Psalm 42:1-2
Matthew 5:6
Revelation 7:13-17
Genesis 3:6-10
Big Idea: God’s best is better than my best.
Judges 21:25
Genesis 3:6
Genesis 3:7-10
• We can trust God with our past. • We can trust God with our future.
God’s best is better than my best.
Ephesians 4:17-18
Zechariah 4:1-14
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The presentation of the vision. (v. 1-2)
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The purpose of the vision. (v. 3-5)
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The power of the vision. (v. 6-7)
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The application.
Revelation 1:12-20
1 Corinthians 6:16-7:7
There’s more to sex than mere skin on skin. Sex is as much spiritual mystery as physical fact. As written in Scripture, “The two become one.” Since we want to become spiritually one with the Master, we must not pursue the kind of sex that avoids commitment and intimacy, leaving us more lonely than ever—the kind of sex that can never “become one.” There is a sense in which sexual sins are different from all others. In sexual sin we violate the sacredness of our own bodies, these bodies that were made for God-given and God-modeled love, for “becoming one” with another. Or didn’t you realize that your body is a sacred place, the place of the Holy Spirit? Don’t you see that you can’t live however you please, squandering what God paid such a high price for? The physical part of you is not some piece of property belonging to the spiritual part of you. God owns the whole works. So let people see God in and through your body.
7 Now, getting down to the questions you asked in your letter to me. First, Is it a good thing to have sexual relations? 2-6 Certainly—but only within a certain context. It’s good for a man to have a wife, and for a woman to have a husband. Sexual drives are strong, but marriage is strong enough to contain them and provide for a balanced and fulfilling sexual life in a world of sexual disorder. The marriage bed must be a place of mutuality—the husband seeking to satisfy his wife, the wife seeking to satisfy her husband. Marriage is not a place to “stand up for your rights.” Marriage is a decision to serve the other, whether in bed or out. Abstaining from sex is permissible for a period of time if you both agree to it, and if it’s for the purposes of prayer and fasting—but only for such times. Then come back together again. Satan has an ingenious way of tempting us when we least expect it. I’m not, understand, commanding these periods of abstinence—only providing my best counsel if you should choose them. 7 Sometimes I wish everyone were single like me—a simpler life in many ways! But celibacy is not for everyone any more than marriage is. God gives the gift of the single life to some, the gift of the married life to others.
- Sex is good and from God.
- Healthy sexuality is a management issue whether single or married.
- God gives us freedom of choice; the “better way.”
● John 3:17
Prayer & Worship
Jesus washes his disciple's feet, our feet, and commands us to do the same for others.
John 13:1
2 Timothy 3:16-17
The Lies Today: ● The Bible has changed radically over time. ● The Bible Constantly Contradicts itself. ● The Bible is open to any interpretation.
The Truth About the Bible: ● It is textually accurate. ● It's God's Word, preserved by God.
Three Keys to Reading the Bible: 1. Remember it is a library, not a book. 2. Treat it as God's Word. 3. Distinguish between Descriptive and Prescriptive.
A portion of the audio is missing starting at 1:19 and returning at 5:50. Apologies for the inconvenience!
Nehemiah 1:1-11
“Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer IS the greater work.” -Oswald Chambers
Nehemiah identified with the exiles in their trouble and disgrace.
1 Timothy 6:6-11, 17-19
Three Variations of This Lie: 1. Wealth is a measure of my worth. 2. Wealth is the source of my security. 3. Contentment is just around the corner.
What Does God Promise Us? • Everything we need Psalm 23:1 Psalm 37:25
• Remember: God provides for you, with you, and through you, and the ground is cursed because of sin.
• Moving Toward Contentment • Contentment does not mean that I’m loving it! • Contentment is something we must learn. • Contentment does not eliminate drive.
Three Indicators of Toxic Materialism • My deepest and strongest desires. • The pattern of my decisions. • The level of my dissatisfaction.
Psalm 1- The Pathway to Victory: 1. Watch where you walk, stand, and sit. 2. Delight in and meditate on the Word of God. 3. Plant yourself by streams of Living Water.
Revelation 12:10-11
TWO WAYS THIS ANCIENT LIE SHOWS UP IN OUR LIVES: 1. Some things God just won’t forgive! 2. Some things you just can’t forgive!
John 8:31-32
- The Truth about God and Forgiveness: • Satan loves to accuse. • When I accuse myself or accuse others, I am not doing the work of God, but the work of the enemy. •God loves to turn his enemies into friends and family.
Isaiah 53:6 Isaiah 55:6-7
- The Truth about FORGIVING OTHERS: • Forgiveness is not an option; it’s a requirement.
Revelation 12:11
The Miracle: Hebrews 10:11-18
And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary.”
The Game of Life: Hebrews 10:19-25
The Wrong Game: Monopoly Hebrews 10:26-31
Remember: We play the long game Hebrews 10:32-36
The Focal Point: Hebrews 10:37-39
You can either fall into His hands or run into His heart.
James 1:1-5
TWO ANCIENT LIES:
- Pain and suffering mean God has let me down.
Job 1:18-22
Job 2:7-10
- If there is a way to avoid pain, only a fool doesn’t take it.
Matthew 4:1
THE TRUTH ABOUT PAIN & SUFFERING:
Pain and suffering are not God’s doing.
Romans 5:12
If you can avoid pain, by all means do so. If you can’t – engage it.
1 Corinthians 7:20-21
THREE STRANGE (BUT POWERFUL) RESPONSES:
- A Strange Attitude: Rejoice.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
We cannot control our feelings, but we can control our thoughts.
James 1:2
There is always something to be thankful for.
Romans 5:3-5
- A Strange Response: Embrace The Benefits.
Trials build character & confidence.
James 1:2-4
Romans 5:3-5
Suffering teaches obedience.
Even Jesus learned obedience from what he suffered.
Hebrews 5:8 Trials reveal the truth about my faith.
1 Peter 1:6-8
Suffering creates empathy.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5
- A Strange Prayer: Lord, give me wisdom.
Ask for deliverance and seek wisdom.
James 1:5
Genesis 3:1-6 Matthew 4:1-11
Big Idea: God’s goodness is bigger than the enemy’s lies.
Question in the chat: Would you say you under-spiritualize things or over-spiritualize things?
John 10:10
The enemy wants us to believe that God’s holding out on us.
Boundaries actually bring us freedom.
Genesis 2:16-17
“Don’t underestimate how significant a ‘no’ is for the health of your soul.”
My emotions aren’t the best guide.
Matthew 4:3-4
The Big Idea: Those who know us most should see Jesus best.
Colossians 3:18-4:1
The discussion at hand is about living TRANSFORMED and free.
SLAVERY is addressed, but not opposed. Why?
The call of God is mutual SUBMISSION.
Ephesians 5:21
“Submit” is a military term about arranging TROOPS for victory.
This passage addresses our natural INIQUITY.
How you live is a SPIRITUAL decision.
SIX WAYS TO BRING IT HOME:
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Wives, glorify Jesus by aligning yourself with your husband for VICTORY.
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Husbands, glorify Jesus by feeding the well-being of your wife while giving your HEART to her.
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Children, glorify Jesus by learning to honor God’s AUTHORITY.
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Fathers, glorify Jesus by strengthening and protecting your children’s HEARTS.
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Victims of oppression, glorify Jesus by proceeding FULLY-DEVOTED to Jesus.
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People in authority, glorify Jesus by LEADING like God does with you.
Colossians 3:23-24
The Universal Battle of Sin Management:
Colossians 3:5-14
The Big Idea: Your heart and your mind will shape and define everything about you.
4 STEPS THAT MOVE US FORWARD:
Step 1: Trade your big BUT for a big BECAUSE. Colossians 3:1
Step 2: Set your HEART and MIND on things above. Colossians 3:2-4
Step 3: Let the PEACE of Christ GOVERN your heart.
Colossians 3:15
Step 4: Let the word of Christ DWELL in your mind and mouth.
Colossians 3:16-17
Life in the Flesh vs. Life in the Spirit Body God Spirit Soul Mind Mind Soul Spirit God Body
Ephesians 2:1-8
Matthew 16:13-20
Because of COVID, the whole church world is learning to play chess without the Queen.
Ecclesiology: “The study of the church; theology of the nature and structure of the church”
Our mandate from the Lord: organize our church family into Oikochurches so that we can equip, mobilize and communicate with the entire church without use of technology, by November 1.
What this IS NOT: • A passive surrender to governmental control over the operations of the church. • A desperate effort to survive as a church during a COVID ice age. • A political or partisan statement of any kind.
What this IS: • Obedience to the clear leadership of Jesus for ECC in real time. • A return to an ancient model that is being globally effective in today’s world. • A strategic initiative to be the church with more clarity, impact, and fruitfulness than ever before.
Our goal: Gather as the church weekly in homes, and gather in small groups on the Olympia campus for prayer, worship, spiritual care, and relational support.
What is the PURPOSE of the Church? For over 2,000 years, the Church has existed for one reason: to change the world!
There are three inherent obstacles to disciple-making: • Professional clergy • Church buildings • Weekend gatherings
4 Strengths of the Oikochurch model: • Rooms at the church are expensive and limited. • People grow best in circles, not in rows. • The pre-Christians and prodigals in your oikos will come to a home long before they’ll come to the church building. • Serving the spiritual lives of your oikos grows you faster and in a more fulfilling way than spectating at a large gathering.
What I am asking you to to: • Embrace the power of Oikochurch. • Engage the personal mission of Oikochurch. • Enter into the organic systems of Oikochurch.
Big Idea: We try and control our standing with God but Jesus offers freedom.
Colossians 2:15-23
Lack of control leads to fear.
It’s easier to rely on rules than on grace.
Colossians 2:20
- It’s possible to anchor our faith to something other than Jesus. • Faith is about purity. • Faith is about Spiritual experiences. • Faith is about Religious traditions.
Colossians 2:19
- Rules don’t bring the power to change - The Holy Spirit and grace do.
Colossians 2:23
Isaiah 30:15
The Big Idea: If you’re a Christian, you are in the ministry.
Colossians 1:24-2:3
Five Impactful Topics For Your Lifetime:
-
The Right Perspective (attitude) • Colossians 1:24-25
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The Right Message • Colossians 1:25 • “The Word of God in all its fullness.”
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The Right Methods • Colossians 1:28-29
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The Right Goal • Colossians 1:28-2:3
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The Right Power Source • Colossians 1:29 • “To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me”
Colossians 1:24-29
THE BIG IDEA: Nothing shows your world Jesus more effectively than how you handle suffering.
Two Important Teachings For Today:
-
Why suffering will always be part of following Jesus. • Philippians 1:29 • A Christianity without suffering puts the Christian, not Christ, as the focal point of its faith.
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How we can experience joy in suffering. • “I rejoice” - “chairo” - a state of happiness and gladness. • Change Your Scorecard. • The Mystery of God is being revealed through your suffering. • Your faith is being refined through your suffering!
1 Peter 1:6 • What part will you play in the ongoing suffering of Jesus for the redemption of all things? • Are you willing to participate in His suffering that you may participate in his resurrection?
Philippians 3:7-14 • Love God and love people with all you’ve got!
Colossians 1:13-23
The Big Idea: Everything comes from, exists for, and finds completeness in Jesus.
Colossians 1:13-14
The Gospel Truth About You:
• You are not enslaved *
• You have access to limitless resources *
Colossians 1:15-18
Three Reasons Jesus is All You Need:
-
Jesus is God.
-
Jesus is the point.
-
Jesus redeems everything.
Colossians 1:18-22
Even God has a Conditional Clause.
Here is my advice:
• Anchor your life in Him.
• Don’t place your hope anywhere else.
The Big Idea: Alone I cannot win but in Christ I cannot lose.
Colossians 1:9-14
Two Powerful Prayer Requests:
-
That God make you smart.
-
That God make you strong.
How is this possible?
• You have been delivered from being dominated.
• You have been carried into God’s Kingdom.
The Big Idea: Good parenting doesn’t major on correction or control, but on construction.
Proverbs 22:6
Parents need revelation from God for two reasons:
-
Without revelation, we will lose our resolve.
-
Without revelation, we will lose our way.
Ephesians 6:4
Top five things your kids really want to know:
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Do you LOVE me?
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Can we TRUST each other?
-
5 Trust Robbers: • Judging by appearance • Sarcasm and put-downs • Expecting too much adult behavior too early • Minimizing their feelings • Assuming what worked then, works now
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Can I be SECURE?
-
Do I have a PURPOSE?
-
Origin + Redemption + Design = Destiny
-
Do you VALUE me?
Correction without connection is passionate disconnection.
We teach what we know, we reproduce what we are, and we cannot lead where we will not go.
Big Idea: The best thing I can do for my marriage is experience the peace of God.
John 4:9-14
We look for relationships, status, and careers to bring us contentment.
Water throughout Scripture:
• Garden of Eden
• Jacob’s Well
• Woman at the well
• Revelation
John 4:16-17
The temptation we all face is to try and control the people around us.
Genesis 2:10
Brokenness entered the world.
Revelation 22:1-2
Jesus is our Reconciliation.
Series Big Idea: The greatest single thing you can do to glorify God and change the world is to experience and offer shalom in your home.
Shalom in the home is the birthplace of world transformation.
The Big Idea: To enjoy shalom in my home, I must first enjoy shalom in me.
Two main reasons I lack shalom:
-
The problem of expectations.
-
Shalom is an inside job.
Romans 8:1
Romans 8:5-8
The New Testament is not just descriptive or prescriptive, it is also definitive.
How I find shalom: I find shalom in the finished work of Jesus.
Isaiah 53:4-6
Shalom comes from the full payment for my sin.
• Transgressions (willful violations of the law)
• Iniquities (the bent, perverted self I was born in to)
How I offer Shalom: Live and love in the care of the Good Shepherd.
Psalm 23
Don’t worry about anything; pray about everything.
Woke, 3- Words Create Worlds Jim Ladd, June 21, 2020
The Big Idea: Words create worlds.
James 3:2-12
James 1:26-27
Our communication tends to be:
• Inflammatory
• Contentious
• Demonizing
The Power of Words:
Proverbs 18:21
“Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit - you choose.”
Proverbs 12:18
Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 15:4
Ask yourself: What is the end game that you want to be about?
Pause before you hit send.
Pause before you hit post.
Four filters to clean our words and guard our souls:
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Is what I am going to say true?
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Is what I am going to say helpful?
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Is what I am going to say personal?
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Is what I am going to say loving?”
Big Idea: If we think we don’t have any stereotypes, we probably have a lot.
John 4:19-24
Silence speaks.
Implicit bias is the attitudes and stereotypes we don’t realize we have.
John 4:6-9
Racism is based on a feeling of superiority.
Jesus started a conversation.
John 4:17-18
John 4:22-23
Jesus came to bring unity to all people.
Ezekiel 3:14-15
Matthew 11:29
Listen to those in pain and listen to God.
Three goals:
Theology of race
Biblical understanding of racism
Biblical call to civility in chaos
Galatians 3:28
Galatians 3:27
In the beginning:
Genesis 1:26-27
-
We were made. (created)
-
We were made in the image of God.
Searching for purpose apart from a relationship with God is like searching for answers where there aren’t any.
“... There are two types of law: just and unjust.... A just law is a man-made code that squares with the moral law or the law of God. An unjust law is a code that is out of harmony with the moral law.... Any law that uplifts human personality is just. Any law that degrades human personality is unjust. All segregation statutes are unjust because segregation distorts the soul and damages the personality.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.
When God created human beings, he intentionally created diversity.
Where does race come from?
When the Bible talks about race, it’s not about the color of skin.
There aren’t multiple races, just one race – the human race.
Acts 17:26
Acts 10:34-35
Genesis 11:8-9
Day of Pentecost - the anti-Babel
Galatians 3:28
Galatians 3:27
Revelation 7:9-10
Shalom: the webbing together of God, humans, and all creation in justice, fulfillment and delight.
It's time we had a much overdue, necessary, and uncomfortable conversation. It's time we make bridges instead of burning them. It's time we shake hands instead of beat our fists. It's time. It's time we lament. It's time we seek reconciliation and restoration. It's time we pray for healing. It's time we pray.
Join Archbishop Lorenzo Peterson, Pastor Jon Cobler, and Pastor Jim Ladd for a conversation about racism and the gospel. We will engage in an important and uncomfortable conversation in the hopes of moving the Church into action.
Special thanks to all the churches involved: Living Water - Pastor Jon Cobler New Life Baptist Church - Archbishop Lorenzo Peterson Reality Church - Pastor Paul Jones Harbor Church - Seth Winterhalter Encounter Life Church - Pastor Courtney Hickman Capital Vision Christian Church - Pastor Bruce Sanders New Bridge Community Church - Pastor Mark Colavecchio
Acts 1:8
Every Christian is a pentecostal.
Romans 8:9
The Big Idea: Trusting in self-effort kills the transforming power of God’s grace in your life.
Galatians 3:1-13
We are asked three very powerful questions:
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Did you experience new birth in Jesus by self-effort or by the Holy Spirit?
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After being born this way, are you trying to live this new life by self-effort?
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Does God do miracles and move among us by your self-effort or by the Holy Spirit?
Galatians 2:19-21
I am Barabbas.
2 Corinthians 5:21
The Big Idea: Only the source of all blessing can show us the path to true happiness.
Matthew 5:3-12
True happiness is found in the circumstances God provides through this pathway - through Christ, himself.
Blessings given to every Christian walking the pathway:
• They possess the Kingdom of Heaven
• They inherit the earth
• They are comforted and satisfied
• They receive mercy
• They see God and are called the sons of God
• Their heavenly reward is great.
Every disciple of Jesus should be:
• Absurdly happy
• Completely fearless
• Constantly in trouble
The Big Idea: A relationship with Jesus is built on one, uncompromising decision: obedience above everything.
Matthew 7:21-27
Two unacceptable alternatives:
-
Merely verbal confession
-
Merely intellectual knowledge
A verbal confession without obedience still sounds impressive.
Jesus’ confession is terrifying.
Knowledge with obedience separates the wise from the foolish.
The wise and the fool:
• The outside observer would notice no difference.
• The difference is foundations and foundations are not seen.
• All professing Christians look alike - both appear to be building Christian lives.
• Jesus is not contrasting professing Christians with non-Christians who make no profession.
• Both are members of the visible Christian community.
• Only a storm will reveal the truth
• Jesus is not teaching that obedience is the way to salvation - but that it is the fruit of it.
The Bible is a dangerous book to read and the church is a dangerous community to join.
It is a matter of choice - today and every day. What is yours?
The Big Idea: That which we most deeply desire, we naturally sabotage.
Genesis 3:1-13
The stories that we believe:
• Made by God and for God - image-bearers
• God is holding out on me
• The forbidden fruit is the key to my fulfillment
• I am not to blame (blame + guilt = shame)
• I am damaged goods and worthless to God or anyone
Three relationships essentials:
-
Relationship with God
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Relationship with myself
-
Relationship with others
The habits we form:
• Fear (man’s core emotion)
• Nakedness (man’s core motivation)
• Hiding (man’s core strategy)
What God has in mind right now: Come away with me to the secret place.
Big Idea: Followers of Jesus lead others to Jesus.
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
Matthew 4:18-21
Jesus is recruiting his team.
Matthew 8:18-22
Matthew 28:19
Jesus has recruited you.
How do you begin?
Start with the basics:
-
GO: (God, Oikos)
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Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
-Figure out what your next step is. (Only you can do this)
-
Love your Oikos: 8-15 people in your traffic pattern.
-
You have already arrived at your mission field
What is your next step toward Jesus?
The Greatest Goal: Transformation (become like Jesus).
The Big Idea: The fully-trained student will become like their teacher.
Luke 6:39-40
2 Corinthians 3:18
The problem is not that we don’t want to change; the problem is that we don’t know how to change.
Psalm 42:5,7 Proverbs 20:5 Proverbs 4:7
Spiritual formation is not a Christian thing - it is a human thing.
Two myths: 1. All you have to do is know the Bible. 2. You don’t need to do anything - it’s all God.
The Big Idea: The fundamental privilege and priority in life is to live in the presence of God.
John 14:16-20; 15:1-8
“I would do anything to have a body like that - except diet and exercise” -Jay Leno
- Get Comfortable With Your Helper.
Romans 8:5-11
- Practice the Presence of God.
“The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees before the Blessed Sacrament.” - Brother Lawrence
“The first and most basic thing we can and must do is to keep God before our minds... This is the fundamental secret of caring for our souls. Our part in this practicing the presence of God is to direct and redirect our minds constantly to Him. In the early time of our “practicing” we may well be challenged by our burdensome habits of dwelling on things less than God. But these are habits - not the law of gravity - and can be broken… A new grace-filled habit will replace the former ones as we take intentional steps toward keeping God before us. Soon our minds will return to God as the needle of a compass constantly returns to the North. If God is the great longing of our souls, He will become the pole star of our inward beings.” - Dallas Willard
- Create a New Faith Scoreboard.
“The general human failing is to want what is right and important, but at the same time not to commit to the kind of life that will produce the action we know to be right and the condition we want to enjoy. This is the feature of human character that explains why the road to hell is paved with good intentions. We intend what is right, but we avoid the life that would make it reality.” - Dallas Willard
1 Corinthians 15:12-22
The word we need to discuss today, is SIN.
We have replaced the word “sin” with the word "MISTAKE"
Mistake = insufficient KNOWLEDGE.
Sometimes we make mistakes ON PURPOSE.
Sometimes we PREPLAN our mistakes.
You can't CORRECT you.
Sinner - Someone who knows better but DOES IT ANYWAY.
Jesus' purpose in talking about sin was RESTORATION, not CONDEMNATION.
Matthew 5:20-21, 27-28
Luke 15:21-24
Jesus says that recognizing your SIN paves the way to RESTORATION.
Romans 3:23-24
How has God’s FORGIVENESS for you, a sinner, changed your life?
Big Idea: Our confidence in Jesus grows when we see his eternal plan and power.
Matthew 21:1-9
Answering powerful life questions:
• How do I know Jesus is the way to God?
• How do I know that my forgiveness is real?
• How do I know that God is aware of and cares about my current life?
• How do I know that God has the power and desire to do anything about my current life?
Two focal points:
-
The prophecy of Zechariah 9
-
The praise of Psalm 118:25-26
Zechariah 9:9-12
What we know from this prophecy and fulfillment:
• Your King comes to you victorious!
• His message is peace.
• He rules over the whole earth.
• His covenant blood gives permanent deliverance.
Psalm 118:5-14; 25-29
The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation!
The Big Idea: Faith leads us forward during a crisis.
What is Faith? Hebrews 11:1-3 • Confident Hope • Assurance without Evidence
Why is Faith Crucial? Hebrews 11:6 • It is the agency of your relationship with God.
What is the Targeted Outcome of Faith? Hebrews 11:13-16 • “Looking for a country not their own” • Longing for a better home • What are the results of Faith?
Hebrews 11:38-40 • Commendation from God • God’s better plan for us • Community perfection
The greatest need we have in a crisis is more of Jesus and His work in us.
The Big Idea: The Bible doesn’t call us to be Christians, but rather Disciples, or apprentices, of Jesus. -Mark 1:16-20 -Mark 2:13-14 -Mark 3:13-19 -Mark 8:34-37
The Three Levels of Jewish Education: 1. The House of the Book 2. House of Learning 3. Talmidim
Three Goals- If You Made The Cut: 1. Be with your Rabbi 2. To become like your Rabbi 3. To do what your Rabbi did
Three Goals As Apprentices of Jesus: 1. To be with Jesus -John 15:1-8 2. To Become Like Jesus 3. Do what Jesus Did
What Jesus Did: • Preached the gospel • Taught the way • Healed • Overpowered demons and demonic activity • Ate and drank with people far from God • Pursued justice • Peacemaker • Prayed • Prophesied • Stood up against corruption
The Big Idea: The way you pray reveals the faith you possess.
Exodus 17:8–16
Four Tips for Powerful Prayer:
- What happens on the hill changes what happens in the valley.
-Ephesians 6:12
-John 14:12-14
-Matthew 18:18
- Relentless prayer ensures perpetual victory.
-Hebrews 11:6
-Psalm 63:1-4
- Powerful prayer requires partners.
-Matthew 18:19-20
- Praising God prepares you for the next battle.
-Exodus 17:15-16
Genesis 32:22-32 (p. 29)
How To Wrestle With God and Prevail:
Strip away every source you’ve trusted in for your Identity.
Wrestle for as long as it takes.
Confess the name you have embraced.
Hear God give you a new name. Rev. 2:17 (p. 1063)
Walk with a limp for the rest of your life.
The Big Idea: Life changes when we connect to the constant Presence of God.
Genesis 28:10-22 (p. 24)
You don't find God, He finds you.
The first step in a relationship with God is a God-awareness.
An altar is a commitment to the Presence of God.
No place can contain the Presence of God.
God is building a house.
1 Peter 2:1-9 (p. 1047)
The Big Idea: Encountering God brings transformation and inspires genuine worship. John 4:1-30 (p.914)
Proper worship is initiated by God. Romans 12:1 (p.975)
Proper worship requires brutal honesty.
Proper worship produces a response.
Ephesians 6:1-20 (p. 1009) The Big Idea: You are called to win the battle over evil.
Winning over evil begins with humility demonstrated in relationships.
Our strength comes from the Lord.
Our struggle is never with humans.
We stand together by using our armor together.
Prayer is the glue that holds it all together.
James 4:7 (p. 1045)
Made to Go More Made for More Part 5; February 9th, 2020; Jim Ladd The Big Idea: You have been strategically sent and placed by Jesus. Ephesians 5:1-20
Houston, we have a problem: We are SPIRITUALLY ASLEEP. We need an urgent WAKE UP CALL. Revelation 3:1a-4 Romans 13:11-14 1 Thessalonians 5:4-11.
We are STRATEGICALLY PLACED to carry the light.
Children of Light: Walk in LOVE Walk in LIGHT Walk in WISDOM
B.L.E.S.S. Your Oikos: BELIEVE for them in Prayer LISTEN to them EAT with them SERVE them SHARE your story with them
The Big Idea: You are not good at almost everything.
Ephesians 4:1-16 (p. 1007)
We are the Body of Jesus on the earth. You are not good at almost everything - but you are uniquely great at a few things.
Five-fold Gifts: 5 systems of the Body of Jesus.
- Apostle: Expand and enlarge
- Prophet: Question and Clarify
- Evangelist: Recruit and reproduce
- Shephard: Care and support
- Teacher: Equip and organize
1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (p. 988) Romans 12:4-8 (p. 975)
Response: - What gifts do you have? - How can you put those gifts to use? - Are you trying to serve Jesus with someone else’s gifts?
The Big Idea: You were made to guilt less and love more.
Ephesians 3:8-21
Guilt paralyzes but love transforms
Forgiveness is the act of removing guilt.
God wants to give us the power to do & be immeasurably more
The Width of God’s Love includes us all - Jews & Gentiles The Length of God’s Love secures us in His eternal plan
The Height of God’s Love lifts us, in Christ, above all rule and power in the heavenly places
The Depth of God’s Love delivers us from the depths of our own depravity
Pray for the enablement of Power: To Guilt Less and to Love More
Big Idea: You are a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Ephesians 2:1-10 (p. 1006)
Memory Verse: Ephesians 2:10 (p. 1007)
- You have been brought to LIFE THROUGH DEATH.
- Colossians 3:1-4 (p. 1016)
-
Romans 10:17 (p. 974)
-
You are God’s MASTERPIECE.
-
Your mission is to LIVE OUT God’s love.
-
2 Corinthians 5.17-21
-
1 Corinthians 3.16
You are His MASTERPIECE MISSION.
The Big Idea: Jesus is more. Ephesians 1:3-23 (p. 1006) Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:22-23 (p. 1007)
Jesus is more FOR us. Matthew 16:13-20 (The Message)
Jesus is more IN us. Romans 12:2 (p. 975)
Jesus is more THROUGH us.
The Big Idea: Rest and refreshing come from the Lord to those who trust Him.
Exodus 16:23-30 (p. 62)
Jesus is our SABBATH REST. Hebrews 4:9-16 (p. 1035)
Here is the key: It is BOTH-AND, not EITHER-OR.
The Sabbath is: - A COMMANDMENT from God. Exodus 20:8-11 (p. 64)
-
A WITNESS for God. Exodus 31:14-17 (p. 75)
-
A very SERIOUS issue. Numbers 15:32-36 (p. 127)
-
A BLESSING from God. Mark 2:23-28 (p. 860)
Big Idea: Because of Jesus, you have found favor with God. Matthew 1:16 (p. 827) Luke 1:26-38 (p. 878)
Mary gets to participate in the most DEFINING EVENT of all time. 1 Peter 1:20 (p. 1047) Genesis 3:15 (p. 3) Hebrews 11:39-40 (p. 1042) 1 Peter 1:3 (p. 1047)
Because of Jesus, we now look back in FAITH and forward in HOPE.
Because of Jesus, MARY’S MIRACLE can be ours, too.
How We Live The Mary Miracle:
-
God offers a redemptive promise TO you.
-
God grows the redemptive promise IN you. 2 Corinthians 1:20 (p. 993)
-
God delivers on His redemptive promise THROUGH you. 1 Peter 5:8-11 (p. 1050)
-
God redemptively changes the world. AROUND you. Matthew 5:13-14 (p. 830)
Jesus makes Mary’s song become OUR song.
Luke 1:48-54 (p. 879)
The Big Idea: God specializes in turning ashes to beauty Matthew 1:1-6
A man after God’s own heart can become the WORST VERSION of humanity 2 Samuel 11:1-5
God executes JUSTICE
God advocates for and RESTORES the powerless
Jesus is the GUARANTEE of God’s promise of restoration Isaiah 61:1-3
The secret to receiving from God is spiritual POVERTY
The Big Idea: When things are falling apart, God is still at work. Matthew 1:1-6 (p. 827) Ruth 1:1-18 (p. 225)
The Road of Discovery that Leads to a Genuine Faith: Ruth 1:16-17 (p. 225)
- A hunger to KNOW GOD.
- A security found in God’s SOVEREIGNTY.
- A connection in God’s FAMILY.
- An openness to God’s CHARACTER.
- An identity in God’s OWNERSHIP.
When famine comes (and it will) you have basically two options: 1. FAITH that recalibrates and re-establishes an absolute trust in God. 2. A BITTER soul.
The Big Idea: God’s grace is bigger than your past. Joshua 2:1-7 (p. 181) Matthew 1:5 (p.827) Hebrews 11:31 (p. 1040)
-
God CHASES the broken. God can MEET US where we are.
-
Your FAITH has a generational impact.
Joshua 2:12-13 (p. 182)
- The Scarlet Cord points to Jesus.
Joshua 2:17-18 (p. 182)
The Big Idea: God’s promise is greater than human dysfunction. Matthew 1:1-3 (p. 827) Hebrews 6:13-20 (p. 1036)
Three Messages of Hope for Messy Lives:
The message of Judah: God’s sovereign promise makes profound CHANGE actually possible.
The message of Tamar: God is a PROTECTOR for the POWERLESS.
The message of Perez: God can keep your HISTORY from determining your FUTURE.
Our Anchor of Hope: JESUS is the fulfillment of all of God’s PROMISES.
2 Corinthians 1:18-22 (p. 993)
The Big Idea: If we will pray in alignment with God’s kingdom and for God’s glory, then God’s power will operate through us. Matthew 6:9-13 (p. 831)
The prayer walks us through a comprehensive coverage of all our human need: ● Material ● Spiritual ● Moral
Praying This Way Helps Us Make Three Daily Decisions:
- The decision to live in His KINGDOM.
Romans 14:13 (p. 977)
The Kingdom of God is: ● RIGHTEOUSNESS ● PEACE ● JOY ● In the HOLY SPIRIT
-
The decision to live by His POWER. ● Acts 1:1-9. (p. 935)
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The decision to live for His GLORY. ● 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. (p. 994)
Don’t settle for BRONZE when you can get the GOLD.
Romans 8:28-30 (p. 972)
The Big Idea: Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. But he who is in the world is greater than you. Matthew 6:5-15 (p. 831) James 1:2-18 (p. 1043)
Where Temptation Comes From: - The governance of EVIL in this fallen world.
Genesis 4:6-7 (p. 4) Ephesians 6:10-12 (p. 1008)
- My own EVIL desires.
The Truth About Our Lives: ● EVIL is too strong for us. ● We are too weak to OVERCOME ALONE. ● Our Heavenly Father will deliver us WHEN CALLED UPON.
Walking The Deliverance Pathway with God:
● Adjust your ATTITUDE. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (p. 986)
● Destroy strongholds of LIES. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (p. 998)
● Learn the secret of CONTENTMENT.
● Confess and confront your own EVIL DESIRES.
● Engage the WORD of God through the WORD of God.
● Hebrews 4:15 (p. 1035)
The Big Idea: Make no attempt to hide from God, for your soul needs daily forgiveness like your body needs daily bread. Matthew 6:5-15 (p. 831)
Understanding Forgiveness: 1. To forgive is to “STOP and LEAVE” 2. Debt = that which is OWED 3. Forgiveness is not about the wrongdoing itself, but about the GUILT of the wrongdoer.
If Jesus purchased our forgiveness on the cross, once and for all, why are we instructed to ask for it on a daily basis?
- CONFESSION is a powerful and liberating thing.
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Proverbs 28:13 (p. 567) - 1 John 1:8-10 (p. 1054)
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We need to continually EXPERIENCE the finished work of Jesus.
- 1 John 2:1-2 (p. 1054)
John 13:8-11 (p. 926) You are clean in Christ; you just need your FEET WASHED - Mark 16:7 (p. 876)
Forgiving others is a NATURAL TENDENCY for forgiven people. - Matthew 18:21-35 (p. 844)
Two Reasons We Refuse to Forgive: 1. We are trapped in SHAME and BITTERNESS
- We have an exaggerated sense of SELF WORTH
- 1 Timothy 1:15 (p. 1023)
- Romans 7:24-25 (p. 971)
- Romans 8:1(p. 971)
The Big Idea: The single greatest need in your daily life is more of Jesus. Matthew 6:5-15 John 6:25-59
Jesus taught us to pray this way for at least two reasons:
- To help us govern the WORRIES of life through TRUST in our Father Philippians 4:6-7 1 Peter 5:7
We bring to God, not a spirit that DEMANDS OF HIM, but one that DEPENDS UPON HIM
Exodus 16 We have to keep the MAGGOTS out of our MANNA
- To remind us that our greatest daily need is MORE OF JESUS
Whoever eats this bread will have an ETERNAL kind of life.
God wants us to experience, and help others find, the JESUS kind of life.
The Big Idea: The primary obstacle to the kingdom of God in your life is you. Matthew 6:5-15 (p. 831)
Prayer as an Act of Listening: - Prayer is not talking just to be heard BY God.
-
Prayer is talking enough to calibrate your head and heart so that you can hear FROM God.
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Altar and Stewardship: Receiving FROM God so I can live FOR God.
-
This is an all-out war with SELF.
Jesus and the Kingdom of God: ● Matthew 17:20 (p. 843) ● Matthew 13 (p. 838) ● Matthew 18 (p. 844 ● Mathew 19 (p. 845) ● Matthew 22 (p. 848) ● Matthew 25 (p. 852)
Job 42:1-6 (p. 462) Matthew 18:4 (p. 844)
Big Idea: We honor the name of the Lord because He is Holy. Matthew 6:5-15 (p. 831)
-
God DECLARES His Name. Exodus 34:5 (p. 77) Amos 4:13 (p. 788)
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God DEMONSTRATES His Holiness in creation. Psalm 19:1-4 (p. 471) Romans 1:20 (p. 966)
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God DESERVES our HONOR and HUMILITY. Matthew 5:20 (p. 830) HUMILITY is at the core of authenticity.
-
God DESIRES His Name to be lifted up. Psalm 23:3 (p. 473) Philippians 2:6-11 (p. 1012)
The Big Idea: Your Heavenly Dad has all power and deeply loves His kids. Matthew 6:5-15 (p. 831)
Four Things You Should Know Before You Pray: 1. Spiritual SHOWMANSHIP gains you no reward. 2. Private TRANSPARENCY gains immeasurable rewards. 3. ACTING drives a wedge between you and God. 4. It is not about YOU. It is about US.
How To Talk To A Triune Being: - Our FATHER
Galatians 4:4-7 (p. 1003) Romans 8:14-17 (p. 972) Romans 8:26-27 (p. 972) Exodus 20:19 (p. 65)
- In HEAVEN.
Matthew 21:21-22 (p. 847) Luke 18:7-8 (p. 901)
The Big Idea: As you steward worldly wealth, God entrusts you with true riches. Luke 16:1-15 (p. 899)
I get to choose my role in life: DIGGER, BEGGAR, or STEWARD.
The 10 Financial Commandments of Stewards:
- You shalt PAY GOD first.
- You shall PAY YOURSELF second.
- You shall live ON LESS THAN YOU RECEIVE.
- You shall pay off ALL CONSUMER DEBT.
Romans 8:24 (p. 972)
- You shall learn the secret of CONTENTMENT.
1 Timothy 6:6–8 (p. 1025) Colossians 3:5 (p. 1016) Exodus 20:17 (p. 65)
- You shall set financial GOALS.
- You shall educate yourself and be responsible for your DECISIONS.
- You shall leave an INHERITANCE for your kid’s KIDS.
- You shall be a BLESSING.
- You shall seek first the greatest TREASURE. Matthew 13:44-46 (p. 840)
The Big Idea: When we practice the priorities of stewardship, the supernatural follows. Matthew 6:19-34 (p. 832)
Three Economic Facts of Life: 1. Your views about WEALTH determine the condition of your HEART. Matthew 6:21 (p. 832)
-
You cannot serve both GOD and MONEY.
-
The most powerful economic decision you can ever make is to PUT GOD FIRST. Matthew 6:33 (p. 832)
The Priorities of Stewards: 1. OBEDIENCE -Matt. 25:21 (p. 852)
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GENEROSITY
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MANAGEMENT
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LEGACY -Proverbs 13:22 (p. 552)
The Big Idea: A steward is rewarded for using the Master’s resources and executing the Master’s will. Philippians 2:1-13 (p. 1012)
The two tracks on which God’s economic train run are ALTAR and STEWARDSHIP.
STEWARDSHIP: The disciplined lifestyle and focus of someone who has surrendered to the service of God.
The Five Components of Stewardship: 1. MASTER- One who imparts the plans and purposes of our stewardship.
- STEWARD - a person who manages another’s property or financial affairs; one who administers anything as an agent of another.
To participate in God’s economy, we must win the MONEY war. Matthew 6:19-24 (p. 832) Luke 16:1-15 (p. 899)
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RESOURCES - supply, support, or aide provided by the Master for the steward to readily draw upon.
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EXPECTATION - Productivity is an expectation of the Master. 2 Corinthians 9:12-15 (p. 998)
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REWARD - given to the Steward. Matthew 25:21 (p. 852) Luke 6:38 (p. 886)
The Big Idea: Ownership is an illusion. Psalm 24:1-10 (p. 473)
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It ALL belongs to God. Psalm 50:10-15 (p. 488)
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Your LIFE belongs to God. 1 Peter 1:17-23 (p. 1047)
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We participate in the economy of God through a lifestyle of ALTAR and STEWARDSHIP. Romans 12:1-2 (p. 975)
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The goal of God’s economy is BLESSING for EVERYONE. Genesis 12:1-3 (p. 9)
The Big Idea: The purpose of everything is the Glory of God Exodus 33:15-23 Exodus 34:5-7
Understanding The Glory of God: 1. What is the GLORY of God? Isaiah 6:1-5
We were spiritually DEAD and legally GUILTY- it is the glory of God to redeem this reality.
-
Why is it the GOAL of everything? Isaiah 43:1-7 Ephesians 1:11-12 Romans 9:22-26
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What is MY ROLE in the glory of God? Hebrews 1:1-3 Corinthians 4:3-6
God is most glorified in us when we are most SATISFIED IN HIM.
The Big Idea: It is all about Jesus.
Colossians 2:6-15
It is important to always calibrate the tension between PHILOSOPHY, TRADITION, and CHRIST.
1 Corinthians 1:18-25 Ephesians 2:1-10
Christ takes us from DEATH to LIFE and from POWERLESS to FULLY EMPOWERED
Galatians 2:15-21
Ephesians 2:19-22 Colossians 3:1-4
Jesus has one request: “COME TO ME.”
Matthew 11:28-30
The Big Idea: Your relationship with God is being built on faith alone. Romans 4:1-8
Two Things To Know About Faith: 1. Faith is a GIFT from GOD 2. Faith is a REQUIREMENT to walk with God.
James 2:21-24 Hebrews 11:6-31
The Four Expressions Abraham’s Faith: 1. A PILGRIM faith
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A PATIENT faith
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A POWERFUL faith
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A PERSEVERING faith
How Faith Grows: Faith comes from THE WORD OF GOD. - Romans 10:17
Faith is made complete by what you DO.
Big Idea: We are free to live for God because of His grace alone. Ephesians 2:4-10
- Your SALVATION is a gift of grace. John 3:16-18
We receive grace through FAITH. Romans 10:17
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The playing field has been LEVELED. Philippians 2:12 Romans 12.1-2
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God created you to do GOOD WORKS. Ephesians 2:10 1 John 4:19 James 2:14-18
You are the WORKMANSHIP of God. 1 Corinthians 15:9-11
Big Idea- The Word of God is THE foundation of the Christian faith.
2 Peter 1:3-11 (p. 1051)
Why You Need God’s Word in Your Life Today:
The Word is AUTHORITATIVE. - Psalm 119
The Word READS YOU. - Hebrews 4:12 - The Word is WISDOM. - Matthew 7:24-27 - Psalm 19:7-13
The Word is your CONCEALED CARRY. - Matthew 4:1-10 - Ephesians 4:17 - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
THE BIG IDEA: Unity empowers us and division destroys us. Psalm 133:1-3
• Unity is JOB ONE for followers of Jesus Proverbs 6:16-19
• Unity is like God’s ANOINTING Exodus 30:22-33
• It makes us HOLY
• It gives us HEALING
• Unity is the WATER that gives LIFE in every season
• Unity is our most powerful WITNESS John 13:35.
• It is not our job to be right - it’s our job to make the RELATIONSHIP right.
The Big Idea: God is not fair and you should thank Him for that. Psalm 130:1-8
Introduction: Life is NOT FAIR.
- The way He LISTENS.
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Psalm 50:15
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The way He FORGIVES.
- Romans 3:23
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Romans 6:23
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The way He HEALS.
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Psalm 130:5-6
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The way He EMPOWERS abundant redemption.
- Joel 2:25
Psalm 127:1-2 (p. 533)
Big Idea: God’s role is more important than all our efforts.
The VANITY of human effort- It only matters if God is in it. Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 (p. 572)
Trusting in God means ENTRUSTING to God. Psalm 20:7 (p. 472) The temptation is to be BUSY, and think it’s PRODUCTIVE.
Psalm 127:2 (p. 533) Colossians 3:23 (p. 1017)
Psalm 62:5 (p. 494)
The Big Idea: When times are tough the most important decision to make is who to trust.
Psalm 121 (p. 531)
Where do you look when you are AFRAID?
Three Reasons You Can Confidently Look to God:
-
He who keeps you stable NEVER SLEEPS
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He is your ready SHELTER for every season.
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He is the GUARDIAN for your SOUL.
THE BIG IDEA: Your parenting assignment lasts a lifetime and is packed with potential, so never, never, never give up.
Deuteronomy 6:1-9 (p. 155) Ephesians 6:1-8 (p. 1009) Colossians 3:20-24 (p. 1016) Proverbs 22:6 (p. 561)
Jim’s Personal Call To Dads: - Don’t be PASSIVE. - FIGHT for them relentlessly. - STAY IN THE GAME to the end
The Big Idea: Pain is inherently productive, and you get to decide what it produces. James 1:1-18 (p. 1043)
Seven Things God is Saying In Your Pain:
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Let me grow you STRONG and MATURE.
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Let me give you WISDOM.
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Learn the secret of FOCUS.
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Find confidence in your WEAKNESS.
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2 Corinthians 12:9 (p. 999)
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Your CROWN is coming.
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Defeat the temptation to BLAME ME.
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Feel my PRESENCE in your pain, and walk with me to GOOD THINGS.
Change your question from “WHY?” to “WHO?”
When the Devil thinks he’s got you crushed, the Lord is preparing a table so you can FEAST in his FACE.
Psalm 42:5 (p. 484) Psalm 23:5 (p.473) Romans 8:37-39 (p. 972)
The Big Idea: Jesus offers a grand adventure to all who will follow Him. Isaiah 30:19-26 (p. 611)
Don’t settle for a DEAL with your Pastor - go for the REAL DEAL. - John 3:5-8 (p. 913) - John 10:1-5 (p. 922)
The adventure God is inviting you to is this: He PROMPTS, you FOLLOW.
It is all about SURRENDER.
God can change someone’s entire world in a single moment by PROMPTING someone. - Esther 6:1-3
Consider a new Rule of Life: The 10 Second Rule.
A Few Principles to Keep in Mind: ● The promptings will typically be RIGHT ON TIME.
● God’s primary promptings will be about CONFRONTING YOUR SIN.
● God’s ultimate aim is BLESSING.
● The central key to this process is OBEDIENCE.
John 14:23-27 (p. 927)
The Big Idea: God is always speaking and often it’s through other people. Exodus 18:7-10, 13-19, 23 (p. 63)
- God speaks through OTHER PEOPLE in our lives.
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Exodus 18:12 (p. 63)
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We listen best when we are HUMBLE.
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Proverbs 15:31-33 (p. 555)
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God uses people to give us PERSPECTIVE and WISDOM.
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Exodus 18:14 (p. 63)
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God speaks through people TO CONFIRM what He is ALREADY DOING in our lives.
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Exodus 18:23 (p. 63)
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Proverbs 15:22 (p. 554)
The Big Idea: God gives visions and dreams to us but never just for us. Acts 2:16-21 (p. 936)
What We Know About Visions and Dreams:
-
God is moving and EVERYONE IS ELIGIBLE.
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They begin in GOD’S HEART.
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They are CONSTRUCTIVE not DESTRUCTIVE.
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They have a SHARED MISSION.
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They inform our IGNORANCE.
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They give DIRECTIONAL CLARITY.
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God is PERFECT and we are NOT.
The Big Idea: You never know where God might lead you next. Acts 16:6-10 (p. 951)
Six Factors In Discerning God’s Will:
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The GOOSE-BUMP Factor John 3:5-8 (p. 913)
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The HIGHEST-PRIORITY Factor 1 Corinthians 16:5-9 (p. 991)
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The PEACE Factor Colossians 3:12-17 (p. 1017)
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The WISE-COUNSEL Factor Proverbs 15:22 (p. 554)
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The CRAZY Factor
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The PERSONAL DESIRE Factor 1 Samuel 10:5-7 (p. 236)
- What do you WANT to do?
Sometimes a SHIPWRECK is part of God’s plan
The Big Idea: Some desires of your heart come directly from God and are His voice in you.
PSALM 37:1-7 (p. 480 )
- The soil that desire grows in: a GOD-CENTERED life.
Desire grows out of CONFIDENCE and CONTENTMENT in God.
When you are daily in God’s presence, your passions become INFORMED without you even knowing it.
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The poison that kills God’s desires in you: COMPARISON. Comparison – compare IS SIN.
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The secret about the fruit of desire –God’s TIMING.
Isaiah 40:28-31 (p. 620)
The Big Idea: The Bible is worth more in this life than a pile of pure gold.
Psalms 19:7-14 (p. 471)
The Power of God’s Word: 1. It returns my SOUL to its original home. 2. It makes the OPEN-MINDED wise. 3. It is the straight path to a HAPPY heart. 4. It gives SPARKLE to my eyes. 5. Awesome reverence for it enables me to STAND continually. 6. It accurately declares me “NOT-GUILTY.”
Intermission: It should be more COVETED than pure gold; and tastes sweeter than pure honey.
More Power of God’s Word: 7. It provides GUARDRAILS that lead to many great CONSEQUENCES. 8. It gives me discernment to see my ERRORS. 9. Leads me to forgiveness for my hidden SECRETS. 10. Calibrates my ARROGANCE. 11. Empowers me to live FREE. 12. Completes the death of my REBELLION.
Series Big Idea: God’s Word is the most powerful thing in the universe. Hebrews 1:1-3 (p. 1033)
Learning to hear God’s voice is the SOLUTION to a thousand PROBLEMS.
Hearing is Different than LISTENING. Matthew 13:15-17 (p. 839)
Wisdom is deciding to make God’s voice the LOUDEST voice in your life.
The Big Idea Today: God speaks His loudest message through the person of Jesus.
Jesus Speaks through His BLOOD. Genesis 4:9-10 (p. 4) Exodus 12:23 (p. 49)
What Is God Saying Through Jesus?
Three words that change everything: PAID IN FULL John 3:16-17 (p. 913)
Big Idea: The Holy Spirit is God’s continual presence in your life. John 14:15-21, 26-27 (p. 927)
- The Holy Spirit CONVICTS Us.
- John 16:8-11 (p. 928)
- John 14:26 (p. 927)
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Galatians 5:19-25 (p. 1004)
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The Holy Spirit COUNSELS Us.
- Romans 8:26 (p. 972)
- 1 Corinthians 2:13-16 (p. 981)
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John 14:16-17 (p. 927)
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The Holy Spirit COMFORTS Us.
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John 14:16, 26-27 (p. 929)
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Psalm 34:18 (p. 479)
- Romans 5.5 (p. 969)
The Big Idea: The most important relationship in your life is your relationship with the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:1-11 (p. 934)
An Executive Summary of Jesus’ 40-Day School of the Kingdom of God:
- The most important gift is a PERSON John 14:15-21 (p. 927)
You receive Him at SALVATION John 20:19-23 (p. 933)
He serves you by BAPTIZING you Acts 1:5 (p. 934) Mark 1:8 (p. 858) Ephesians 5:15-20 (p. 1009)
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The most important focus is God’s KINGDOM Matthew 13 (p. 838)
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The most important mission is to be a WITNESS His explosive power enables you to both DIE and LIVE
Jesus is our living MODEL
Big Idea: Jesus has prepared an eternal destiny for you that is awe-inspiring. -Romans 8:18-31 (p.972)
-Acts 1:11 (p. 933) -Romans 14:11 (p. 977) -Hebrews 9:27-28 (p. 1038)
Reorienting Ourselves Toward Heaven:
- Heaven is the HOME you already long for.
- Heaven is the SURPRISE PARTY you never saw coming.
- Heaven becomes your source of OPTIMISM.
- Heaven transforms death from a CURSE to a DOORWAY.
- Heaven tomorrow empowers LIFE today.
-Philippians 3:13-14 (p. 1013) -Hebrews 12:28 (p. 1042)
Big Idea: We are the church and we are unstoppable. Matthew 16:13-19 (p. 842)
The Truth About Us, The Church: 1. We are BUILT by Jesus. Ephesians 2:19-22 (p. 1007)
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We are OWNED by Jesus. Ephesians 3:7-12 (p. 1007)
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We are EQUIPPED by Jesus. Ephesians 4:11-16 (p. 1008)
Hebrews 10:19-25 (p. 1039)
- We are SENT by Jesus. 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 (p. 981)
Big Idea: God has given me everything I need to live a powerful life 2 Peter 1:3-11
AVERAGE is the enemy of GREAT. Romans 7:14-25
Transformative change occurs INTERNALLY.
How Does God Continue His Work In Me? 1. Through an authentic FRIENDSHIP with God.
Philippians 2:12-13 (p. 1012)
- Through PARTICIPATING in God’s Nature.
The ruined life is not be IMPROVED - it is to be REPLACED. Romans 8:1-17
- Through Making EVERY EFFORT.
Galatians 5:17
Big Idea: The good news is Jesus, who reconciles us to God and gives us new life. Colossians 1:13-23 (p. )
The Gospel is GOOD NEWS.
The GOOD NEWS is JESUS.
The Good News of Jesus:
- The PRESSURE is off.
-
The GAME is On John 8:36 (p. ) 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (p. )
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I Have ONE JOB.
Hold on to the hope and never let go.
Big Idea: Jesus is a far greater King than you settle for. Psalm 2:1-12 (p. 463)
The Truth About King Jesus:
- We HAVE a True King.
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Even if you reject that there is a True King, you will CREATE ONE and serve him.
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We HATE the True King.
- We scream at the King, “I am MY OWN! Take off the YOKE!”
Romans 8:6-7 (p. 971)
-
We even use RELIGION to protect us from Jesus.
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We NEED the True King.
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There is no refuge FROM the King; only refuge IN the King.
What it Really Means to Have Jesus as Your King:
- OBEY
- SUBMIT
- RELY
- EXPECT
The Big Idea: God’s deep desire for you is to love Him and to love whom he loves.
The most simple answer to today’s question is “THE 10 COMMANDMENTS.” -Exodus 20:1-19 (P. 64)
The commandments are not the pathway to FREEDOM from SLAVERY; they are the way FREE PEOPLE live.
It has always been about FAITH.
God wants me to be a BONDSLAVE.
Jesus Simplifies and Clarifies God’s Requirements:
Mark 12:30-31 (p. 871)
-Love GOD and love WHO HE LOVES.
Matthew 25:31-46 (p. 852)
-So, what does God require of us? EVERYTHING!
The Big Idea: Man was, is, and always will be the center of God’s affection.
Genesis 1:26-31 (p. 1) Genesis 2:7 (p. 2)
Three Critical Facts About Man: 1. Man was the crown of CREATION.
- Man is fundamentally BROKEN.
The LIE Genesis 3:4-5 (p. 3)
The FALL Genesis 3:6-13 (p. 3)
The CURSE Genesis 3:16-19 (p. 3)
The CONSEQUENCE Romans 3:11-12 (p. 968)
Jeremiah 17:9 (p. 665)
- Man can be fully REDEEMED and completely RESTORED to God.
John 3:16-17 (p. 913) 1 John 3:1 (p. 913) 2 Corinthians 5:17 (p. 995) Isaiah 6 (p. 590)
The Big Idea: The most important thing about you is what you think about God.
John 1:1-18 (p. 910)
One thing we can all know for sure: When we see God unfiltered, we will certainly be SURPRISED.
John 3:1-2 (p. 913 )
- He is the God who IS.
Genesis 1:1 (p. 1) Exodus 3:13-17 (p. 3)
- He is the God who REVEALS HIMSELF.
Hebrews 1:1-3 (p. 1033)
- He is the God who REDEEMS.
John 3:14-19 (p. 913) Isaiah 1:18 (p. 586)
Jesus Guides Our DISCOVERY of God.
Matthew 6:9-14 (p. 831)
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (p. 998)
Get your BATTLE PLAN right. The Big Idea: The key to winning is a well-executed battle plan.
Your Battle Plan: 1. Control the HIGH GROUND. - 2 Corinthians 10:5 (p. 998) - Romans 12:1-2 (975)
- Fight fire by being ON FIRE.
- 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (p. 998)
- Ephesians 6:11 (p. 1009)
Don’t try to live God’s way without God’s POWER.
- Never GIVE UP.
-
James 1.12 (p. 1043)
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Proverbs 24:6 (p. 563)
-
Revelation 12:11 (p. 1069)
-
Raise your VOICE.
- Matthew 26:30 (p. 854)
Worship doesn’t just win the battle, worship IS THE BATTLE.
1 Thessalonians 5:5–11 (p. 1020) The Big Idea: Fighting is a daily decision that must flow from your new identity.
To Fight Well, You Must Know WHO YOU ARE.
- Leverage the power of the PACK.
The easiest way to change your life is to change your FRIENDS.
-
Be DRESSED FOR BATTLE every day.
-
Speak to others with ENTHUSIASM
Galatians 2:20 (p. 1002)
Living a new life often means doing the opposite of what we FEEL.
The Bible doesn’t tell us what to FEEL, it tells us what to DO.
Proverbs 16:32 (p. 556) Proverbs 25:28 (p. 565)
James 3:1-12 (p. 1044) Matthew 15:10-11 (p. 841)
The Big Idea: Your words tell the real story.
If Jesus is Lord of your life then He needs to be Lord of your LIPS.
- Your words impact OTHER PEOPLE. Ephesians 4:25-32 (p. 1008)
Proverbs 18:21 (p. 557) Colossians 4:2-6 (p. 1017)
-
Your words impact the FUTURE. James 3:3-5 (p. 1044 )
-
Your words impact YOU. Psalm 43:5 (p. 485) Psalm 95:2 (p. 514) Psalm 100:4 (p. 516 ) 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (p. 1020) Psalm 107:2 (p. 521)
2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (p. 998) The Big Idea: To fight for your life effectively, you must get your mind around the realities of war.
We have 3 Enemies That Must Be Demolished or Destroyed: 1. STRONGHOLDS 2. ARGUMENTS 3. PRETENSIONS
Nothing great has ever been done with half of someone’s HEART. Proverbs 23:7 (p. 562)
You can change the way you FEEL by changing the way you THINK.
Colossians 3:1–2 (p. 1016)
Romans 12:2 (p. 975) Matthew 22:37 (p. 849)
Positive thinking is not a replacement for God, it is a RESPONSE to Him. Philippians 4:8 (p. 1013)
It’s impossible to WORSHIP and WORRY at the same time.
Series Big Idea: Because God’s greatest gift to you is His Presence, the sensible gift to give Him is yours. Romans 12:1-8 (p. 975)
The Big Idea: THINK + FAITH = VISION
The Journey of the Self ● Our natural impulse is an elevated sense of SELF-IMPORTANCE. ● Clarity comes from being GOD-LABELED rather than SELF-LABELED. ● Comparison is a FOOL’S GAME.
● Your best self is found and fulfilled in connection to the BODY OF CHRIST. ● God gave you GIFTS so you could GIVE THEM AWAY. ● So do that with ALL YOUR HEART.
Take Your Next Step: Finish this sentence: As a response to this message from God’s Word, I am going to ____________________.
Series Big Idea Because God’s great Christmas gift to you was His Presence, the sensible gift to give Him is yours. Romans 12:1-3
Galatians 2:20 The Big Idea: Transformation is both a continual struggle and a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit.
Verse 1 urgently calls for a DECISIVE commitment. Verse 2 reveals how to PRACTICE that commitment.
Two Parts of Practicing our Commitment:
- Do not CONFORM to the PATTERN of this world. Galatians 1:4 Hebrews 6:5
James 1:27
- Be TRANSFORMED by the RENEWAL of your MIND. We are talking about METAMORPHOSIS. Titus 3:3-7
“Spiritual Formation - the process of being conformed into the image of Christ for the sake of others.”
- Robert Mulholland
Romans 8:29
How do I know it’s happening? 1. I feel the pressure of the RIVER. 2. I am regularly confronted by the TRUTH. 3. I am able to discern God’s WILL.
The Big Idea: Because God’s incredible Christmas Gift to you is His Presence, the sensible gift for you to give Him is yours.
Romans 12:1-3 God is the RELENTLESS and SELFLESS Giver.
We respond to God by, through, and because of His MERCY. In view of His gift to us, our gift to Him is our BODIES. ● James 1:26 ● James 2:14-19
We offer our gift ALIVE. And our gift is to be: 1. HOLY Galatians 2:20
- PLEASING
1 Samuel 15:22 3. LOGICAL
Titus 3:3-8 (p. 1031)
The Big Idea: Legalism is a fool’s game that no one can win.
THE LIE OF LEGALISM: - You have to be GOOD to get to GOD. - You have to be FIXED to be FORGIVEN.
Legalism says that TRANSFORMATION comes before RELATIONSHIP.
Jesus says that RELATIONSHIP comes before TRANSFORMATION He SAVES us.
We do NOTHING.
Ephesians 2:8 (p. 1006)
The Lure of Legalism:
We come to Him through GRACE, then make it about WORKS.
We reduce SPIRITUALITY to OUTWARD PRACTICES and norms.
Spirituality is not about RELIGION, RITUALS, ROUTINES, or RITES.
SPIRITUALITY is about RELATIONSHIP.
What is Jesus after? AUTHENTIC Spirituality. - Matthew 5:17-20 (p. 830) - Philippians 2:12-13 (p. 1012)
God is at work in you: - To DESIRE and to ACT - To BE and to DO
The Big Idea: Pretending you are someone you aren’t is toxic to everyone, including you.
Matthew 7:3-5 (p. 832)
Matthew 23:5-7; 11-15; 23-28 (p. 849)
Hypocrite - “MASK WEARER”
Hypocrite - One who lays aside their true IDENTITY for a false one.
The worst kind of hypocrites not only exaggerate their own GOODNESS, but also others’ FAILURES.
What Hypocrisy is Not: - It is not when somebody fails your expectations of PERFECTION. - It is not catching someone who says they follow Jesus SINNING.
Let’s clean it up: - The opposite of hypocrisy is not PERFECTION. - The opposite of hypocrisy is AUTHENTICITY.
Two Big Ideas With Christian Living: 1. Those who authentically follow Christ are marked by honest TRANSPARENCY, not controlled APPEARANCE.
With Jesus, there are only two kinds of people: - Sinners who ADMIT IT - Sinners who DENY IT
- Those who authentically follow Christ are marked by TRANSFORMATION, not PERFECTION. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 (p. 1019) Galatians 2:20 (p. 1002)
Christians are not perfect; they are IN TREATMENT. 1 Timothy 1:15-16 (p. 1021)
The Big Idea: God will judge you the way you judge others.
Matthew 7:1-5 (p. 832)
The message of Jesus is clear: “Whatever you do, don’t JUDGE people!”
Judgmentalism is the practice of personal CONDEMNATION.
We Are Judgmental When We:
- Assume the worst construction of their MOTIVES.
- Pour cold water on their DREAMS
- Are ungenerous toward their MISTAKES
The opposite of judgmentalism is not apathy, but the practice of GRACE and TRUTH.
- John 1:14; 16-17 (p. 911)
- John 8:1-11 (p. 919)
The key is not to discern their MOTIVES- but yours.
At ECC, no more games of HIDE and SEEK.
Please Welcome with us Scott Hanson from Live Dead!
As we listen to him and his story, consider these thoughts about "Living Life on Mission"
-How can you be more intentional with the daily rhythm of your life to serve your oikos?
-Who in your oikos would be most impacted by your story? Why and have they heard it?
-What are some barriers in your life that could be removed in order to serve your oikos more effectively?
-Regarding your oikos, where may God be asking you to go this week that takes you out of your comfort zone? Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you there this week.
Big Idea: Join the Add:Venture
2 Corinthians 8:7 (p. 996)
“Money is not intended to be a source of security- it is intended to be a source of blessing.”
Matthew 6:19-34 (p. 832)
The Big Idea: Your focus will determine your path.
The EYES are the most critical anatomical part of grace giving.
Be Careful Little Eyes What You See: • What do your eyes see as your TREASURE BOX? • Where do your eyes look when you WORRY? • What MASTER does your eye look to for counsel?
There is a relationship between who you serve and what you WORRY about.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (p. 998)
Therefore, to excel in the grace of giving you must take your THOUGHTS captive.
Embrace this fact of life: You cannot SERVE TWO MASTERS.
2 Corinthians 8:1-9 (p. 997)
The Big Idea: God’s grace can take you and your giving further than you can even imagine.
Matthew 6:21 (p. 832) Malachi 3:10-12 (p. 823)
The tithe is the foundation of TRUST. The tithe is a test of God’s CHARACTER. The tithe is the secret sauce of FINANCIAL freedom.
Not all giving requires GRACE.
Among Christians, there are: • TAKERS • TIPPERS • TITHERS • GRACE GIVERS
Grace In Full-Motion: • PROPORTIONAL giving • SACRIFICIAL giving • ENTHUSIASTIC giving
Proverbs 11:24-25 (p. 550)
The Big Idea: The most powerful thing you can do with your mouth is confess.
Psalm 32:1-11 (p. 477)
Four Ingredients of a Blessed Life: 1. Your core BROKENNESS is forgiven. 2. Your past FAILURES are covered. 3. Your present STRUGGLES are not kept on a scoreboard. 4. Your way of life is FULL DISCLOSURE with God.
Confession: to say what GOD SAYS. 1 John 1:6-10 (p. 1054)
You can CLAIM or you can CONFESS.
Silence is EXPENSIVE. Psalm 32: 3-4 (p. 477)
Confession is the doorway to FREEDOM and JOY.
Three Exercises For Your Mouth: 1. PRAY 2. REJOICE 3. SING
James 3:1-15 (p. 1044)
The Big Idea: As goes the taming of the tongue, so goes all other spiritual progress.
4 Amazing Facts:
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The tongue is DISPROPORTIONATELY powerful. James 1:26 (p. 1043)
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The tongue is INHERENTLY evil. James 3:6 (p. 1044) James 3:8 (p. 1044)
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The tongue is HUMANLY untamable. James 3:7-8 (p. 1044) Exodus 4:10-11 (p. 50)
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The tongue is CONTRASTINGLY productive. James 3:9-12 (p. 1044) James 3:5-12 (p. 1044)
The Big Idea: The substance of my words reveals the nature of my heart.
Proverbs 18:21 (p. 557) Matthew 12:33-37 (p. 838)
THREE TRUTHS ABOUT MY WORDS:
- My WORDS reveal ME.
Psalm 141:3 (p. 537) Psalm 39:1 (p. 482) Proverbs 17:28 (p. 557)
- My WORDS affect OTHERS.
Proverbs 26:18-19 (p. 565) Luke 6:41-45 (p. 886)
- My WORDS build MONUMENTS.
2 Timothy 1:3,5 (p. 1027)
The Big Idea: Your words have enormous influence over the outcomes of your life.
Proverbs 18:20-21 (p. 557)
Two Points:
- Words connect us to God.
John 1:1-5;14 (p. 911) Psalm 107:19-20 (p. 522) Romans 10:8-11; 13 (974) Matthew 12:31-37 (p. 838)
- Words connect us to each other.
Prov. 18:21-22 (p. 557) Ephesians 5:25-27 (p.1009)
The Big Idea: Walking with God is not only possible, it should be our expectation.
1 Samuel 10:6-9 (p. 236)
In the Old Testament, life IN THE SPIRIT is a rare thing, but in the New Testament, it is a COMMON thing.
- Acts 1:8 (p. 935)
- Acts 2:16-21 (p. 936)
Our ability to hear God is highly dependent on a CONVERSATIONAL relationship with God. - Proverbs 3:5-6 (p. 543)
THREE COMMON MISTAKES: 1. The MESSAGE A MINUTE view. 2. The IT’S ALL IN THE BIBLE view. 3. The WHAT-EVER COMES view.
THREE Lights That God Uses: 1. CIRCUMSTANCES 2. IMPRESSIONS OF THE SPIRIT 3. PASSAGES OF THE BIBLE
John 10:14-28 (p. 922)
Two great barriers for us: 1. The seeming unreality of the SPIRITUAL life. 2. The overwhelming reality of the VISIBLE world.
Waiting on God: - ASSUME - PURSUE - DECIDE
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (p. 996)
The lie she believes before marriage and he believes after: - SPIRITUAL MISMATCHES do not matter.
4 Levels That Couples Relate to Each Other: 1. PHYSICAL 2. INTELLECTUAL 3. EMOTIONAL 4. SPIRITUAL
Gut-Check Questions: 1. Can they describe a specific time or era where they accepted Christ’s gift of FORGIVENESS?
- If they were put on trial for being a COMMITTED follower of Jesus, would there be enough evidence to convict them you?
God wants to UNIFY, EMPOWER, and REVOLUTIONIZE your marriage.
God wants to make a powerful ONENESS a gift to you.
Response: - If you are the believer- PRAY.
If you are an unbeliever (and are willing): 1. Start a LIST Do a serious INQUIRY 2. Get a MENTOR 3. Read the Book of JOHN 4. Try talking to God.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a (pg. 988)
Lie we believe before marriage: - There is ONLY ONE PERSON that is meant for me.
Lie we believe after marriage: - I must have married the WRONG PERSON.
Marriage is about DECISIONS and ACTIONS.
1 Corinthians 13 is not the love chapter it is the WORK chapter.
Ephesians 5:21-33 pg. 1009
Lie we believe before marriage: “I have to be married to be HAPPY and FULFILLED.”
1 Corinthians 7:7 (MSG) pg. 983
Lie we believe after marriage: “My husband or wife MUST MAKE ME happy and fulfilled.” - He needs RESPECT; she needs LOVE.
5 Ways to Love Your Wife: 1. Be CLOSE 2. Be OPEN 3. Be UNDERSTANDING 4. Be COMMITTED 5. Be CAPTIVATED
5 Ways to Respect Your Husband: Appreciate his desire to...
- WORK and ACHIEVE.
- SERVE and LEAD
- ANALYZE and COUNSEL
- Experience shoulder-to-shoulder FRIENDSHIP
- Experience SEXUAL INTIMACY
The Big Idea: The Jesus makes us part of something far bigger than we realize. John 17:20-26
Jesus prays that we be ONE.
What does that mean? - Same NATURE - INDISTINGUISHABLE from each other yet incredibly diverse
How We Experience Oneness? - Common ROOT - Common FRUIT
Who Is Eligible? - Anyone who has experienced FAILURE.
Three Goals: 1. More people being born again than being born 2. The Church become the most valued organization in every city/town 3. True Community Transformation
The Big Idea: Jesus is praying for you.
John 17:6-19 (p. 929)
The Kind of People Who Change Their World: -Those who BELONG to Jesus. -Those OBEDIENT to God’s Word. -Those that have huge FAITH in God.
How Jesus Prays for You (9-19)
-That you be PROTECTED in the world -That you PREVAIL in the world -That you be ONE with other believers in the world -That you be HOLY in the world
The world is changed when WHOLE people are HOLY to God and give their WHOLE HEARTS to serving the mission of Jesus.
Romans 8:34-39 (p. 972)
Big Idea: Peace and joy come from keeping an eternal perspective.
John 16:16-33 (p. 929)
There are 2 sources of our anxiety/unrest:
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Facing the UNKNOWN.
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Facing things OUT OF OUR CONTROL.
John 10:10 (p. 922) Isaiah 55:8 (p. 636)
-The answer to our anxiety is a God INVASION.
-Life in this world is like GIVING BIRTH.
John 16:21-22 (p. 929)
Why you can relax:
-
God is in the FUTURE.
-
God’s powerful presence is IN YOU.
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Jesus has OVERCOME THE WORLD.
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God is eager to ANSWER.
Hebrews 11:13-16 (p. 1040)
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit is our Advocate for navigating spiritual truth.
John 16:5-15 (p. 928)
When the Holy Spirit comes, He proves the world WRONG:
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About SIN
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About RIGHTEOUSNESS Romans 4:5 (p. 968) 1 Corinthians 1:30 (p. 980)
-
About JUDGMENT John 12:31-33 (p. 925)
The Holy Spirit GUIDES us into all truth.
The Holy Spirit is just getting STARTED.
The Big Idea: When you choose Jesus you pick a side. -John 15:9-25 (p. 928)
Jesus Presents Three Relational Arenas Where You Must Choose:
V.16 “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you…”
- You and ME
- Choose to REMAIN.
- Choose to OBEY.
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Choose to become a FRIEND.
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You and other FOLLOWERS OF JESUS
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Choose EACH OTHER.
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You and THE WORLD
- Choose to accept REJECTION.
- Choose not to BELONG TO THEM.
- James 4:4 (p. 1045)
I must CHOOSE.
Joshua 24:13-18 (p. 210)
THE BIG IDEA: God has a simple strategy to make you very fruitful.
John 15:1-11 (p. 928)
God wants you to be FRUITFUL!
He is committed to GETTING HIS HANDS DIRTY.
He is committed to RESOURCING YOU.
He is committed to LARGE FRUIT.
He is committed to being GLORIFIED this way.
This is how you find JOY.
The Truth About Deadwood: Branches are in trouble when they lose their RESOURCE.
The destiny of deadwood is STARVATION and DEATH.
3 Keys to Fruitfulness: (what’s the job of a branch?)
- Choose the TRUE vine.
- Stay in the PRUNING PROCESS.
- Understand your LIMITS and God’s LIMITLESSNESS.
How Do I Get Started? - Be constantly PRESENT with Jesus. - Walk in COMMUNITY.
The Big Idea: The Holy Spirit gives us the power to live like Jesus.
John 14:12-14 (p. 927)
THE OBVIOUS QUESTION: HOW? By THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
CLARIFYING QUESTION: How does Jesus decide who to show Himself to? Those who LOVE Him.
How does Jesus spell love? OBEY (4 Times)
The Holy Spirit is Your: ADVOCATE INTERCESSOR HELPER
How to love God: PLAY OFFENSE.
Romans 7 Romans 8 BODY GOD SPIRIT SOUL MIND MIND SOUL SPIRIT GOD BODY
The Big Idea: The love of the Father says, “do not let your hearts be troubled.”
John 14:1-14 (p. 927)
Jesus and God are ONE. Do not let your heart be TROUBLED.
Trust in God brings PEACE. John 16:33 (p. 929)
Relationship with God brings HOPE. Psalm 33:20-22 (p. 478) Hebrews 11:1 (p. 1040) Psalm 147:11 (p. 540)
Faith in Jesus brings POWER Romans 15:13 (p. 978)
The Big Idea: Jesus sets the bar for what love should look like John 13:31-38 (p. 927)
HOW CAN THE WORLD SEE JESUS? Radical LOVE - Luke 7:20; 22 (p. 887) This is how God is GLORIFIED.
WHAT IS LOVE? God love is TRUE LOVE. - 1 John 3:16-18 (p. 1055)
Human love loves for ITS OWN SAKE. God love loves for the sake of JESUS.
Human love BINDS the person to me. God love BINDS the person to God.
Human love desires the other PERSON. God love desires GOD.
Human love seeks to be IRRESISTIBLE. God love seeks to be TRANSFORMATIONAL.
Human love creates FLOWERS. God love creates FRUIT.
Human love SEEKS. God love SACRIFICES.
HOW CAN I LEARN TO LOVE LIKE THAT? God’s love must TRANSFORM me.
Revelation 19:1-9 9 (p. 1074)
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: RECEIVE GOD’S LOVE and LOVE EACH OTHER!
The Big Idea: There is a secret from God that is only learned one way.
Philippians 4:10-20 (p. 1013)
A critical and personal attribute for life is CONTENTMENT.
What is It? - A state of SATISFACTION or peaceful HAPPINESS.
How Do You Learn It? - By being challenged with almost NO ONE to help you. (v. 15)
There is a Secret From God For You: - You can DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST. (v. 13)
Where Do I Acquire The Strength? -Through DISCIPLINE Hebrews 12:7-13 (p. 1041 ) Proverbs 4:20-27 (p. 545) James 1:2-8 (p. 1043)
CONTENTMENT is closely attached to GENEROSITY because both are learned and require trust in God. (v. 17-20)
The Big Idea: The Presence of Jesus gives you peace when you have conflict with others. Philippians 4:2-9 (p. 1017)
Conflict can make it difficult to STAND FIRM in the Lord.
The enemy has an aim to DIVIDE and CONQUER.
Critical Habits When in Conflict With Someone: - Involve a trusted PEACEMAKER. - Enjoy a state of HAPPINESS IN THE LORD. - Tell God exactly WHAT YOU WANT. - Militantly control your THINKING.
The Results When Your Faith Rules Over Your Feelings:
- Noteworthy GENTLENESS
- Trans-rational PEACE
Action Item: Make a PLAN and pursue RESOLUTION.
The Big Idea: The best way to stand firm is to intentionally keep moving.
Philippians 3:12-4:1 (p. 1013 )
HOW TO STAND FIRM IN THE LORD:
Step 1: FORGET and PURSUE. (v. 12-15)
Step 2: Live what you ALREADY KNOW. (v. 16)
Romans 9:30-31 (p. 973)
Step 3: Choose and follow good ROLE MODELS. v. 17
Step 4: Understand how DESTINY is determined.
Step 5: Stand firm in your FOCUS and HOPE in Jesus.
The Big Idea: Faith is out of focus if it stares at anything other than Jesus.
Philippians 3:1-14 (p. 1012-1013)
The universal question for people in chains is “WHY?”
The search for an answer is actually a search for CONFIDENCE.
There is a savage enemy of your faith: a LIST. -Romans 2:28-29 (p. 967) -Galatians 3:10 (p. 1002) -James 2:10 (p. 1044)
When your focus is a LIST, your goal is SELF.
When your focus is JESUS, your goal is HIM.
You cannot know the power of the resurrection unless there is a DEATH.
When your prize is JESUS, your life opens to a whole new world.
So, What do I do now? -FORGET and PURSUE.
The Big Idea: Your most meaningful life will not be built by you alone. Philippians 2:19-30 (p. 1012)
Paul’s Team for Life and Mission:
- TIMOTHY - Philippians 1:1 (p. 1011)
- EPAPHRODITUS - v.25
- FATHER -Titus 2:3-6 (p. 1030)
- SON - v.22
- BROTHER -1 Samuel 20:17 (p. 247)
- CO-LABORER - v.20
- FELLOW-SOLDIER -2 Timothy 2:1-4 (p. 1025)
Three Steps To Build Your Team:
- Determine what you most NEED.
- Find the person who might MEET THAT NEED.
- Go for a CONVERSATION
Honor is the rope that ties us all together.
1 Thessalonians 4b-12 (p. 1019)
The Big Idea: Being one with Jesus is not a spectator sport.
Philippians 2:12-18 (p. 819)
The Job: To work OUT what God is working IN.
- Your salvation
Hebrews 5:9 (p. 840)
- With fear and trembling
Romans 2:1-5 (p.783)
The Strategy: To BECOME who we ARE, in a POLLUTED world.
Deuteronomy 32:1-5 (p. 143)
The Mission: Stand OUT and hold ON TO.
The Price: EMPTY yourself.
The Big Idea: Jesus is God and His way is humble obedience.
Philippians 2:1-11 (p. 819)
“If-Then” Statements (Hypothesis - Conclusion)
If Jesus is HELPING you, then ONENESS with Him is key. -Romans 15:5 (p. 791 )
If Jesus did this FOR YOU, then do this FOR EACH OTHER. -1 Peter 2:13-25 (p. 851)
If humble OBEDIENCE is the way of Jesus, then it is YOUR WAY, too. -Hebrews 12:1-3 (p. 844)
If God EXALTED Jesus in His humilty, then Christ wihtin us will be EXALTED in our own humility. -James 4:1-10 (p. 848)
If the Father gave Jesus a NEW NAME then He will GIVE YOU ONE. -Rev. 19:11-13 (p. 871)
The Big Idea: My chains, like all of my life, serve a higher purpose.
Philippians 1:12-30 (p. 818)
Paul’s Four Guiding Attitudes About Life in Chains:
- Paul’s attitude about CIRCUMSTANCES
- Paul’s attitude about his ADVERSARIES
- Paul’s attitude about HIMSELF
- Paul’s attitude toward his own LIFE
Paul’s attitude advice for us: It’s not ABOUT YOU.
Unchained - Part 1
Philippians 1:1-11 (p. 818)
THE BIG IDEA: God is partnering with you, in spite of your chains, to become who you already are in Him.
You better get used to it: you are a SAINT.
You can absolutely trust two things: 1. God’s GRACE and PEACE are yours. 2. He who BEGAN, will FINISH.
John 15:4-5 (p. 752)
There is One Central Prayer for You: -That your LOVE may flourish.
Key Thoughts Moving Forward: -Love TRANSFORMS -Love CLARIFIES -Love PURIFIES -Love PRODUCES
The Secret While In Chains: -His WORK in me -His PRAYER over me -My FOCUS on Him
The Big Idea: The ability to believe is the most powerful force at your disposal.
Acts 17:22-31 (p. 772)
Three Observations: 1. The ability to BELIEVE is the most powerful force at mankind's disposal. 2. We constantly look for EVIDENCE to support what we BELIEVE. 3. Belief is easy to maintain within a COMMUNITY of shared belief.
- Religious BELIEF is simply BELIEF applied to things of a religious nature.
- When Jesus died, those closest to him BELIEVED THAT he was dead.
- Jesus' closest followers LOST FAITH in the end.
After the disciples were transformed, they preached 4 points: 1. You KILLED him 2. God RAISED him 3. We've SEEN him 4. Say you're SORRY
Acts 17:31 (p. 772)
Belief is powerful - meeting the resurrected Jesus is TRANSFORMATIONAL.
Matthew 3:13-17 (p. 676) Matthew 26:26-27 (p. 695)
Big Idea: These simple acts of obedience demonstrate a heart that seeks to honor the Word of the Lord.
Communion Matthew 26:26-29 (p. 695)
The Table - Communion is an invitation to be part of God’s family. The Bread - The provision - Jesus gave His life in our place. The Cup - The covenant of transformation – Jesus’ shed blood changes us.
When Participating in Communion, we must: -Be a born-again believer (2 Corinthians 5:17)) -Examine ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:28) -Judge ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:31-32) -Cleanse ourselves 2 Corinthians 7:1-2) -Come with an expectation (Hebrews 11:6, Romans 14:23)
Baptism Matthew 3:13-17 (p. 676)
Baptism is an outward declaration of an inward transformation. Baptism is identification with Christ. Romans 6:3-11 (p. 785)
Big Idea: Contentment is the antidote to covetousness.
Exodus 20:17 (p. 52) Hebrews 13:5 (p. 845) Deuteronomy 5:21 (p. 125)
You shall not desire WHAT BELONGS TO SOMEONE ELSE.
The only reason we would covet what someone has is that we are not CONTENT with what we have.
Genesis 3:6 (p. 2)
Covetousness causes us to RESENT God.
Luke 12:15 (p. 727) 1 Corinthians 5:11 (p. 795) Ephesians 5:3 (p. 816) Colossians 3:1-5 (p. 822)
Covetousness is IDOLATRY.
Resolve your CONTENTION with CONTENTMENT.
2 Corinthians 10:12 (p. 807)
Rule over your DESIRES with DELIGHT.
Psalm 37:4 (p. 388) 1 Timothy 6:6-12 (p. 831)
The Big Idea: Dishonesty keeps you in an impossible situation but honesty brings freedom.
Titus 3:3-8
1 Peter 3:8-12 (p. 851)
- Be honest with yourself. -Honesty is your first step toward freedom.
1 John 1:9 (p. 855)
- Be honest with God.
Psalm 139:23-24 (p. 434) -God knows the truth and loves you in spite of it.
1 Peter 3:10 (p. 851)
- Be honest with others. -James 5:16 (p. 849) -Humility and accountability are foundational to our healing!
Titus 3:10-11 (p. 836)
THE BIG IDEA: Intimacy is the powerful engine of our relationships and cheap substitutes destroy everyone.
-Ephesians 5:21-33 (p. 813)
-Genesis 2:24 (p. 2)
-Matthew 5:27 (p. 678)
-Matthew 15:19-20 (p. 686)
The central issue is ONENESS - with God and with your spouse.
-1 Corinthians 6:7-20 (p. 795)
Your BODY is a big deal! You are not YOUR OWN - you were PURCHASED. God raised Jesus and He will DELIVER you, also!
HOW TO MOVE FORWARD:
-Pursue intimacy with GOD. -Pursue Intimacy with your SPOUSE. -Pursue recovery from ADULTERY.
The Big Idea: We violate the sixth commandment when we choose to carry darkness in our heart toward another person.
Exodus 20:13 (p.13) Genesis 4:1-7 (p.3) 1 John 3:11-15 (p.856) Hebrews 11:4 (p. 843)
Your WOUNDS provide an open door for evil and for God.
The evil one desires to HAVE you, and WOUNDS are a very effective tool.
The one thing no one can ever take from you is the power to CHOOSE.
The way to anchor yourself and your choice is LOVE.
LOVE is laying down your life for OFFENDERS.
What does Jesus have to say on this subject? Matthew 5:21-26 (p. 678) -If you are ANGRY, you are subject to judgment. -Reconciliation is more important to God than WORSHIP. -Jesus’ advice: Settle the case quickly or it will NOT GO WELL FOR YOU.
How do I move forward? -Receive GRACE. -Seek RECONCILIATION. -FORGIVE
Luke 17:1-4 (p. 731)
The Big Idea: God calls me to honor authority figures in my life as an expression of my trust in Him, the ultimate authority.
-Exodus 20:12 (p.52) -Hebrews 3:7-19 (p.839)
- Honor develops our FAITH. -Mark 6:1-6 (p.703)
We are a faithless generation.
We are an honorless generation.
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Honor opens doors to unique BLESSING. -Ephesians 6:1-3 (p.816) -Romans 13:1-2 (p.790) -Luke 2:52 (p.726) -Romans 1:30 (p.783) -2 Timothy 3:2 (p.833) -Proverbs 30:11-17 (p.459)
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Honor is the “yellow-brick road” to your DESTINY. -Deuteronomy 5:16 (p.125) -Matthew 15:1-8 (p.686)
Due to Football Sunday, this week's special Sunday Gathering, there will not be teaching notes today. Instead we are joining together for a day of Christian football players sharing their stories that brought them to faith.
Watch it live here!
The Big Idea: God calls us to rest because it testifies to our faith in Him and releases blessings into our lives.
Exodus 20:8-11 (p. 52)
The fascinating thing about this commandment is that it is INVISIBLE. -Matthew 12:1-8 (p. 683)
This commandment is a GIFT from God. -Mark 2:27 (p. 700)
What Is This Commandment Really About?
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It is not about RESTING from work, it’s about TRUSTING in God. -Exodus 16 (p. 49) -Deuteronomy 5 (p 125)
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It is not about the DAY of the WEEK, but about the POSITION of the HEART. -Colossians 2:16-17 (p. 822)
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The Sabbath is every MOMENT in JESUS. -Hebrews 4:1-11 (p. 839)
There are consequences when we DON’T REST.
The new Law has two rules- and both of them depend upon SABBATH.
Rested, whole, healthy people make better RELATIONSHIPS.
The Big Idea: The relationship is weakened when you use the person’s name without dignity, even if they never know it.
Exodus 20:7 (p. 52)
Exodus 34:5-6 (p. 62)
All through scripture, the name of God is equated with GOD HIMSELF. • Proverbs 18:10 (p. 450) • Psalm 20:7 (p. 381) • Romans 10:13 (p. 788) • John 1:12 (p. 739)
We profane His name when we treat it as COMMON. • Ezekiel 36:16-38 (p. 601-602)
We profane His name when we BEHAVE like UNBELIEVERS.
The Big Idea: Creating an image of the God you prefer to worship sabotages the relationship and keeps you from experiencing His true greatness.
Exodus 20:3-5 (p.52)
Three Reasons Not To Make An Image:
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Your image DOESN’T EVEN COME CLOSE to who He is.
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You will instinctively WORSHIP your image rather than GOD.
John 9:1-3 (p.747) Exodus 20:6 (p.52) Deuteronomy. 7:9 (p.126)
- Your image keeps you from seeing the GLORY OF GOD.
Romans 9 (p.787) Hebrews 1:1-2 (p.838) Isaiah 44:6-20 (p.504)
The Image problem affects many of our relationships:
-Unrealistic Standards lead to Unmet Expectations
The Big Idea: Healthy relationships thrive when they receive the appropriate level of priority in our lives.
Exodus 34:28 Exodus 20:1-17
- It’s not about RULES, but about RELATIONSHIP
Exodus 20:1
You determine the DEPTH of your relationship with God.
Exodus 20:18- 21 Psalm 103:7
- WORSHIP God only.
Isaiah 45:5
- Your SPOUSE is your highest priority on earth.
- The issue of priority will help you ALIGN all of your relationships.
The Big Idea: Life-long growth requires both supernatural help from God and concentrated personal effort.
2 Peter 1:3-11
5 Myths About Spiritual Growth: 1. Spiritual growth is automatic over time • TRUTH: Spiritual growth requires tremendous EFFORT
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Spiritual growth is not for everybody. TRUTH: God’s POWER is available to everyone.
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Spiritual growth is natural to some people and not to others. TRUTH: The key is God’s NATURE, not ours.
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Spiritual growth is an accomplishment. TRUTH: Spiritual growth is an ONGOING PROCESS.
The question is not, “Have I ARRIVED?” The question is, “Am I GROWING?”
THE BIG IDEA: We have peace because truly, accurately, and absolutely, God is in control - He is governing it all.
Isaiah 9:1-7 (p.479)
The message of Christmas is incredibly CONFRONTATIONAL.
And it changes EVERYTHING!
The key to peace is GOVERNANCE.
Matthew 28:18 (p.698) 1 Corinthians 15:25 (p.801) Luke 1:32-33 (p.714)
How do we find and rest In His peace?
- Stop trying to GOVERN everything yourself.
- Personally surrender to His GOVERNANCE.
- Exercise appropriate levels of SELF-GOVERNANCE.
- Trust the Righteousness and Justice of His GOVERNMENT.
BIG IDEA: The truth about joy is that you can have it in any circumstance.
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Happiness is finite.
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Joy is Infinite.
Luke 1:46-49 (p.715)
Authentic joy is found in God’s presence. Lasting joy is possible in every season when we follow God’s truths. Anchored joy and peace are a result of trusting God.
• II Corinthians 6:10 (p.805)
- The advent gift of joy cannot be conquered!
• Rev. 21 (p.872)
2. This is a faith thing!
• I Peter 1:8-9 (p.850)
• John 20:24-29 (p.757)
Mark 12:30-31 (p.709)
Christmas is about GOD LOVING PEOPLE.
Romans 5:8 (p.785) I John 4:7-16 (p.856)
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Love is the CHARACTER of God.
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Love is the CREATIVE FOCUS of God.
JESUS is the manifestation of God’s creative focus to love us.
- Love is the GUIDING SPIRIT.
Luke 2:22-38 1. Israel was clinging to their ancient hope for a DELIVERER.
This was a promise God reinforced many times: • (The destruction of evil in) Genesis 3:15 • (God’s promise to Abraham in) Genesis 12:1-3 • (God’s promise to Moses in) Exodus 19:5-6 • (God’s promise to David in) 2 Samuel 7:13 • (God’s promise through His prophet in) Isaiah 49:6
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HOPE arrived in the birth of Jesus. • Jesus brings comfort through SALVATION. • Jesus brings us REDEMPTION. • Luke 2:33-38
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We have HOPE because Jesus will ARRIVE AGAIN. • We live in the tension of the ALREADY but NOT YET. • Romans 8:22 • Jesus is COMING AGAIN and we eagerly wait for His RETURN.
Acts 1:11 1 Corinthians 11:26 Hebrews 9:28
The Big Idea: The Father’s grace calls all of His sons to come back home. Luke 15:11-32 (p.730)
The Younger Son: • The son’s departure is not LOSTNESS, but REBELLION • Grace lets you go without seeking to CONTROL you • Grace welcomes the REBEL into relationship without demanding an EXPLANATION • Grace helps you realize you are not a PIG, but a HUMAN BEING and a SON.
The Choice: DESTROY yourself or trust that the love you look for does exist - BACK HOME
Deuteronomy 30:19 (p.142)
• Grace even accepts your self-serving REPENTANCE.
The Decision: Be a HIRED SERVANT or a forgiven SON.
The Elder Son: The Choice: To TRUST or not TRUST in God’s all-forgiving love.
• Both sons seek SELF-ACTUALIZATION • Both sons are USING the Father • TRUST and GRATITUDE are the disciplines for the return of the eldest son. • Jesus is the ELDER Son of the Father! • The Father welcomes you HOME
THE BIG IDEA: The power for continuity in your life comes from the awesome combination of Grace and Truth.
Matthew 22:1-14 (p.691)
The secret sauce of your freedom is GRACE AND TRUTH
The key is to always remain WELL DRESSED Matthew 22:11-14 (p.691)
Strategies for the Seasons of Life: We have AMAZING seasons and DIFFICULT seasons. Matthew 16:15-20 (p.687) Acts 12:5-10 (p.767)
In the great seasons, DISCOVER Jesus
In the hard seasons, DECLARE Jesus
Allow God to open the GATE in front of you
The Big Idea: When God wants to restore your soul, and prepare a feast for you in the presence of your enemies.
Luke 4:16-21 (p.718)
Five foundational ministries of Jesus: - Salvation - Spirit Baptism - Healing - Deliverance - Restoring the Soul
- Jesus Heals BROKEN HEARTS
- 1 Samuel 15:26 (p.196)
- 1 Samuel 19:9-10 (p.199)
7 Reactions to Rejection 1. Anger 2. Insecurity 3.Pride 4. Independence 5. Being easily offended 6. Excessive shyness or loneliness 7. Control or manipulation
- Jesus heals BRUISES
- Matthew 18:32-34 (p.688)
- 1 Corinthians 5:1-5 (p.795)
- James 4:7 (p.849)
- 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 (p.804)
- 2 Corinthians 11:14 (p.808)
- Psalm 23:1-6 (p.382)
Finding Freedom 8 - How Change Actually Happens
The Big Idea: Real change is possible and it always happens from the inside-out.
Jeremiah 1:4-12
The path from prison to freedom is always the same: 1. VISION about what life could be like. 2. Someone has to do for me what I CANNOT DO ON MY OWN. 3. I have to make a DECISION that I intent to do something. 4. I have to START DOING IT
Galatians 5:1 1 Samuel 10:6-9 Isaiah 61:1-3
Jesus is not into BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION. Jesus is about SPIRITUAL FORMATION!
“A Spirit-driven process of forming our inner world in such a way that it becomes like the inner being of Christ himself.”
Spiritual formation is not a PASSIVE process.
John 15:1-16 Galatians 5:22-26
How We Change: • VISION • INTENTION • STRATEGY
Finding Your Freedom- Freedom and Your Heart
The Big Idea: Above all things, guard your heart for everything you do flows from it.
Proverbs 4:23-27
Everything you do flows from your HEART.
Matthew 15:8-11; 15-20
How to Guard Your Heart:
Control your MOUTH Free from PERVERSITY- Free from CORRUPT TALK Proverbs 19:1
- Control your EYES
Look STRAIGHT AHEAD Keep your eyes directly BEFORE Luke 11:34
- Control your FEET
Give careful thought to your PATHS Hebrews 12:2-13
Be STEADFAST- Don’t DEVIATE Deuteronomy 28:14
Keep your FOOT from evil
Finding Your Freedom 6 - Fighting For Your Life
The Big Idea: Defeating lust is a matter of life and death because it wages war against your soul.
Proverbs 7:1-27
Three Words To Describe the Spirit of Lust: 1. DESIRE
Luke 22:15 Galatians 5:16-17 Romans 6:19 Romans 8:5-6 Romans 13:14
- DECEPTION
Proverbs 6:23-32 Proverbs 27:20 Habakkuk 2:5 Ezekiel 16:28
- DEATH
James 1:14-15 Romans 8:12-13
What is the Way Out? DELIVERANCE and DISCIPLESHIP
Romans 12:1 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 1 Peter 2:11
The Big Idea: The lust of the eyes manifests itself through greed, unbelief, and fear.
1 John 2:15-17
The Lust of the Eyes Manifests Itself in Three Different Ways: 1. GREED
Genesis 3:1-6 Genesis 2:9 Exodus 13:1 Exodus 23:19
There are only two things you can do with God’s TITHE - Bring it or steal it.
Genesis 4:1-7 Leviticus 27:30
- UNBELIEF
Joshua 6:19 Joshua 7:11-12 Malachi 3:7-12
- FEAR
Luke 22:3-5 John 12:1-6 Matthew 26:15 Matthew 27:3-6
Finding Freedom Week 3 - “Believers in Bondage” The Big Idea: Many Christians do not find freedom because they rationalize their bondage.
Two Open Doors to Bondage: 1. Continual, HABITUAL SIN opens a door
John 8:31 Romans 6:16-18 Romans 13:14
- FRIENDSHIP with the WORLD opens a door
James 4:1-6 1 John 2:15-17 Romans 8:5-8
WHAT IS THE ANSWER FOR ME? 1. Desperate pursuit of JESUS
Mark 5:24-34 James 4:7-10
- Remodel your BRAIN
Romans 12:2
The secret to your freedom is CONTINUAL, HABITUAL FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD!
Finding Freedom Week 2 - “Permission Granted”
The Big Idea: Pride is the number one trap the enemy uses to gain access to God’s people.
The number one open door to the enemy is PRIDE 1. Pride is trusting in YOUR OWN STRENGTH
Luke 22:20-32 Matthew 16:21-23 Mk 14:27-31 John 13:1-17 1 Corinthians 10:12
- Pride is trusting in YOUR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Job 1:6-12 Job 32:1-2 Job 33:8-9 Job 40:6-8
- Pride is trusting in YOUR OWN WISDOM
1 Kings 22:7-8, 15-23
What we know for sure is that God is IN CONTROL
James 3:13-15
Would God ever grant permission for the enemy to sift you? YES Why? Always FOR YOUR GOOD
Proverbs 16:18 1 Kings 22:34
Pride is a trap that the STRONG, the RIGHTEOUS and the WISE can fall into.
Finding Freedom, Wee 1 “Under the Influence”
The Big Idea: Those whom the Son makes free are free indeed.
John 8:31-47
Two Certainties In Our Battle For Freedom: 1. The War has three fronts: the WORLD, the SELF and the DEVIL 2. Jesus wins the first battle for us. From then forward, we must PARTICIPATE WITH HIM in the fight.
Most believers do not experience overwhelming freedom because they do not believe they can be in BONDAGE.
2 Corinthians 2:11
There really are DEMONS. Matthew 8:16-17 Matthew 9 Matthew 17 Mark 3:14-15 Mark 6
Do we need deliverance or discipleship? YES! The enemy can work inside BELIEVERS
John 10:1-10 Ephesians 6:10-14 Luke 21:19 Joel 2:9
Jesus really does CAST THE ENEMY OUT
Luke 10:17-21 Mark 5:6
Your Next Move, 3 “No Greater Love”
The Big Idea: The two keys to your personal fruitfulness are immersion in god’s word and the condition of your heart.
Luke 8:4-9, 11-15
The catalyst for this final movement is SACRIFICIAL GIVING
Three truths about your spiritual journey: 1. These are not necessarily CHRONOLOGICAL 2. You can move both DIRECTIONS 3. We all enter the kingdom as CHRIST-CENTERED.
Luke 8:15 The engine that drives your growth is the CONDITION OF YOUR HEART
Luke 8:10 Matthew 13:10-15 Isaiah 57:15
The dash board of your spiritual growth engine has only two metrics: 1. HUMILITY 2. HOLINESS
The two practices that keep us weed-free and fruitful: 1. Daily immersion in spiritual PRACTICES 2. Intentional SERVING in the daily traffic pattern
Your Next Move - Week 2 "Alive and Active"
The Big Idea: Reflection on Scripture is the most critical spiritual practice for every place on your spiritual journey.
Getting to know the GROWING IN CHRIST group: • They have encountered evidence that God is MOVING • Now the awkward phase of RELATIONSHIP BUILDING • This was the LARGEST group in the survey - 38% • They are the most active PARTICIPANTS
Luke 8:4-9, 11-15
The enemy’s goal is to keep their faith SHALLOW
One Catalyst and Two Keys: • THE CATALYST: Deep belief in the AUTHORITY of the Bible. • THE KEYS: 1. Seek and expect great CHALLENGES Luke 14:26-27
- Daily reflection on the SCRIPTURES and CONVERSATIONS with God
Hebrews 4:9-16 Luke 24:32 2 Peter 3:16 Psalm 19:7-14 Psalm 119
The Big Idea: The Truth that draws people into a relationship with Jesus Christ is Grace.
There are 4 kinds of people attending every church: • Exploring Christ • Growing in Christ • Close to Christ • Christ-centered
Luke 8:4-9, 11-15
The Big Idea of the research results is that the key to spiritual movement is personal PARTICIPATION.
The enemy and your flesh are always working against you.
If you are EXPLORING CHRIST, the enemy’s strategy is to STEAL THE WORD before it can penetrate your heart.
If you are GROWING IN CHRIST, the enemy’s strategy is to keep your faith SHALLOW
If you are CLOSE TO CHRIST, the enemy’s strategy is to discourage you with DISAPPOINTMENT
If you are CHRIST-CENTERED, the enemy’s strategy is “THE KITCHEN SINK.”
HOW DO I MOVE FROM EXPLORING CHRIST TO GROWING IN CHRIST? • Remember - your soil is like the PATHWAY
Proverbs 20:5 Jeremiah 17:9 Mark 8:17 Jeremiah 4:3 Hosea 10:12-14
WHAT IS THE CENTRAL AND POWERFUL KEYS TO MOVING FROM EXPLORING CHRIST to GROWING IN CHRIST? • The GRACE of God
Ephesians 2:1-10 Colossians 2:13-15
DEBATING ABOUT SUFFERING AND SOVEREIGNTY
Matthew 11:2-6
Matthew 22:41-46
John the Baptist, in the midst of his suffering, asks Jesus who Christ is.
Matthew 11:2-6
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DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES cause doubt
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The WORLDLY INFLUENCES cause doubt
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The INCOMPLETE REVELATION causes doubt
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The UNFULFILLED EXPECTATIONS cause doubt
Jesus questions the Pharisees, “Whose son is Messiah?
Matthew 22:41-46
THE HEART OF CHRISTIANITY IS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS THE GOD-MAN
The Big Idea: To maximize the power of marriage, I must understand and commit to God’s original intent.
Matthew 19:3-12
THE HISTORY OF THE QUESTION: Deuteronomy 24:1
THE HEART OF GOD: • Marriage as Covenant • Marriage as Discipleship • Marriage as One Flesh • Marriage as a Picture of God
THE REAL ISSUE (v8): Jeremiah 17:9 A hard heart is easy on self, hard on others, and hollow in holiness.
THE WAY FORWARD: • Know God’s answer to the question • Reach resolution before God • Start where you are now
The Big Idea: No one can come to Jesus unless the Father draws them.
John 6:41-59
43-44, “Stop grumbling among yourselves,” Jesus answered, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day.”
There Are Two Ways People Don’t Get It: 1. I don’t get it, but I WANT TO 2. I don’t get it and I don’t LIKE IT!
What Does Jesus Mean? We would never seek for or CHOOSE God unless God first sought after and CHOSE us.
John 15:16
Couple of Perplexing Issues: 1. Does this mean we don’t have any FREE WILL? • You will never have the desire to lose everything so you can gain Christ unless GOD DRAWS YOU. 2. Does this mean God is not choosing EVERYONE?
John 3:16-17 Matthew 18:12-14 Romans 8:29
Here is the Huge Key: You are DRAWN, not DRIVEN.
Deuteronomy 7:6
What Difference Does This Make? The Sovereign Rulership of God challenges our PRIDE and sense of SELF and comforts our FEARS and INSECURITIES.
Debating Jesus – About the Afterlife
Mark 12:18-27
Two areas we error in: 1. We don’t know SCRIPTURAL truth. 2. We underestimate the POWER OF GOD.
Big idea: We live differently, grieve differently, and hope differently because we serve the God of the living not the God of the dead.
1) We are ETERNAL created beings
Ecclesiastes 12:7 Romans 6:23 1 Corinthians 15:21-22
- We will all experience the Day of JUDGEMENT
Romans 14:10-12 Revelation 21:11-13
- The Christian: What Degree of REWARD
2 Corinthians 5:9-10
- The non-Christian: What Degree of PUNISHMENT
Romans 2:5-6
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The PERFECT judge will judge PERFECTLY
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Jesus will lift the CURSE and make everything RIGHT
Revelations 22:3 Romans 8:18-25
- No more reason to CRY
Revelation 21:4-5
LOVING GOD
Mark 12:28-34 (pg.709)
The Big Idea: Love for God is the foundation of the Christian life and the characteristic of a true believer.
- THE APPROACH
Mark 12:28a
“One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating, noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer…”
- THE QUESTION
Mark 12: 28b
“Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
- THE RESPONSE
Mark 12:29-31
“Hear O Israel, The Lord our God, The Lord is one. Love the Lord with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.”
- THE REACTION
Mark 12: 34
“When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, You are not far from the kingdom of God”
The Big Idea: Jesus calls us to participate politically while working with Him to activate a completely different kind of revolution.
Mark 12:12-17
The purpose of the question was to TRAP Jesus.
They aren't trying to make Jesus unpopular - they are trying to get him EXECUTED as a revolutionary.
The Wisdom of His Answer: Jesus calls us to refuse political SIMPLICITY, political COMPLACENCY and political PRIMACY.
Jesus articulates the first theory of LIMITED government in the history of the world.
Jesus won't let his people GIVE UP or see politics as the pathway to REVOLUTION.
The Revolution to Which He Calls Us: V15 The King without a quarter revolutionizes the world through an UPSIDE-DOWN Kingdom
Luke 6
The revolution leverages the 4 dominant values of man: POWER, SUCCESS, COMFORT and RECOGNITION
The greatest thing you can do for your country is pray and live the LORD’S PRAYER. (Come, thy Kingdom; be done thy will, on earth as it is in heaven)
2 Chronicles 7:14
The Big Idea: My calling from God is lived out through who I am, whose I am, and how I love. 1 Peter 2:1-10
Jesus Introduced a New Model for Life with God:
TEMPLE Model: Sacred places, Sacred texts, Sacred men, Sacred sacrifices.
JESUS Model: New covenant. New command. New ethic. New movement.
What Am I Called To Be? A person of the people of the PRESENCE of God; a member of God's FAMILY 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
What Am I Called To Do? I exist to declare the praises of my DELIVERER. V9
- Rid myself of all: • MALICE • DECEIT • HYPOCRISY • ENVY • SLANDER
- CRAVE spiritual nutrition (start something)
- Offer spiritual SACRIFICES
Romans 12:1-2
Hebrews 13:15
How Can I Be Empowered To Do This? 1. COME TO Him, the Living Stone 2. LEAN INTO the Spirit's Presence
The Big Idea: We are a people, a priesthood and a nation - declaring together the praises of our Deliverer.
1 Peter 2:1-10 (pg.850)
The Call to a Living Community: 3 metaphors in these verses for the church
CITIZENS in a nation We are a chosen people, royal priesthood, and holy nation 2. CHILDREN in a family. V2:17
We have the same blood line 3. STONES in a Temple
A spiritual house V4-5 We are the house of the Spirit. At ECC:
Life transformation BEGINS with encounters with God, is SHAPED by my community, is ESTABLISHED by spiritual disciplines, ENERGIZED through service, and REPRODUCED through authentic relationships.
The Ethic for an Alien Community:
To DECLARE THE PRAISES of him who called us out of darkness into His wonderful light. Where is the power for this kind of community? V4
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Acknowledge you have a CORNERSTONE
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See him as PRECIOUS. V6-7
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ALIGN yourself with him
The Big Idea: Everybody serves something or someone. Choosing to serve God initiates a life of true freedom. • 1 Peter 2:13-17 • 1 Peter 4:1-5 • 1 Peter 5:1-11
What is Christian Freedom? We are free people because we are God's SLAVES.
This makes no sense unless you buy two assumptions: 1. There is no such thing as negative FREEDOM. 2. Freedom is finding the LIBERATING restrictions.
Which restrictions do I choose? • The ones that fit my DESIGN.
Three Things Freedom Brings into Your Life: 1. Freedom from uncontrollable and enslaving EMOTIONS and DESIRES. (1 Peter 4:2-3) 2. Freedom from the fear of CIRCUMSTANCES. (1 Peter 5:6-7) 3. Freedom to SERVE people.
Two Ways to Grow in Freedom: 1. Don't be afraid of making PROMISES. (1 Peter 5:5-7) 2. Look at Jesus Christ ON THE CROSS. (1 Peter 4:1-3)
Walking With Jesus Week 6: Our Path - The Cross of Suffering June 4, 2017
The Big Idea: Suffering is inevitable and provides enormous opportunities in our faith development.
1 Peter 1:6-9; 1 Peter 3:13-18
Two Facts of Life: 1. Suffering is INEVITABLE 2. Suffering is a pathway to BLESSING
We suffer as EXILES We suffer as ones who need FAITH GROWTH We suffer as ones who follow the SUFFERING SAVIOR
The Good Outcomes of Suffering: - Our faith is REFINED - Our faith is REVEALED - Our faith is REWARDED
The Disciplines We Need During Suffering: Suffer GRIEF Do not FEAR what they FEAR Isaiah 8:12-15 FEAR Christ
Walking with Jesus, Week 5: Our Power - Spirit Filled Living May 28, 2017
Scripture references: 2 Peter: 1:3-11; Acts 2 & 4; James 1:12; Galatians 6:9; Colossians 1:11-12; John 13:35; Matthew 22:37-40; John 15:13; Romans 12:9-13
Big Idea: Without God’s power, it cannot be done; without my participation, it will not be done.
Without God’s power, you cannot understand His goodness; without effort, you will not show it to others. • Out of goodness comes knowledge
Without God’s power, you cannot achieve divine knowledge; without your effort, it will not make a difference in your faith. • Out of knowledge flows self-control
Without God’s power, you cannot experience divine self-control; without your participation, you will not experience divine self-control. • Out of self-control flows perseverance
Without God’s power, you cannot persevere; without your participation, you will not persevere. • Out of perseverance comes godliness
Without God’s power, you cannot be godly; without your participation, you will not be godly. • Out of godliness comes mutual affection and then ultimately Love
Without God’s power, you cannot show love; without your participation, you will not show love.
Two questions: 1) On what character building block do you find yourself today? 2) What is keeping you there?
May 14, 2017 Walking With Jesus 3 - Our Call: Holy Living Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: The call of God to you is to be holy. 1 Peter 1:13-21
What is Holiness? Holy” means “SET APART” The core of holiness is that I BELONG to God.
How does Holiness grow in me? A Sharp MIND A Child-like OBEDIENCE A reverent FEAR A grateful HEART
Missionaries Jonathan & Vanessa Capone
John 10: 7-16
SHEEP NOT OF THE PEN There are other sheep Scattered outside the present pen God’s commitment to the lost sheep They will come
FEELINGS WHEN YOU MOVE OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE Moving from comfort to courage will... ... cause you to doubt your decision. ... cause you to doubt your abilities. ... cause you to look for the easy way out. ... cause you to feel weak in the knees. ... cause others to question you.
Walking With Jesus Week 2 “Our Birth: Supernatural”
Big Idea: The Big Idea: We have been given new birth into a living hope that grows us up and secures our inheritance.
1 Peter 1:3-12
What happened to you? You were given NEW BIRTH Being born again spiritually is about a new LIFE-SOURCE and a new IDENTITY
2 Peter 1:4 ; Titus 3:5
Where does it happen to you? It happens to you in your HOPE HOPE is a DESIRE and an EXPECTATION
How does it grow in you? It grows through SUFFERING
How do you know this promise is for you? You know it is for you because of how it was ACCOMPLISHED
Walking With Jesus Week 1 - “Encountering the Risen Christ” April 23, 2017
Big Idea: A disruptive collision with the grace of God is what opens the door to the process of my restoration.
Peter’s episodes with grace serve as a paradigm for us: Mark 14:27-31 Mark 16:1-8
Jesus already knows YOUR NEXT FAILURE.
Jesus is focused on YOU, not your BEHAVIOR.
John 21:1-17
Growth requires that you focus on JESUS, and HIS BEHAVIOR
Jesus can trust you when you serve out of WEAKNESS rather than personal STRENGTH.
Restoration is a LIFE-LONG process - a dynamic of repentance and faith. John 15 - The Secret is to ABIDE in JESUS
Community Group Questions
• Have you ever found yourself back in the boat fishing like Peter? Feeling like you so completely disappointed God that you believed Jesus would have nothing more to do with you. Tell the story of how Jesus met you in that place.
• What does it do for you to believe that Jesus already knows your next failure? o How does this or how should this impact our walk with Jesus?
• One of Jim’s points was that “Jesus is focused on You, not your behavior.” o How would you describe this to someone you know? o What would be the fruit of truly believing this in a person’s life? o Has this truth penetrated your life? If not, what are some steps towards that?
• Describe the difference between serving out of weakness and serving out of personal strength. What makes serving out of weakness attractive and serving out of personal strength dangerous?
Easter Sunday April 16, 2017 Knowing Jesus, 4
Big Idea: Because of the resurrection, your future is certain and unimaginably wonderful.
Luke 24:13-49
Three things we can learn from the resurrection: 1. The Resurrection is a PARADIGM-SHATTERING historical event Luke 1:1-4 Luke compiles evidence that this was a BODILY resurrection. Historical facts always shatter false PARADIGMS.
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The resurrection is the proof that your FORGIVENESS has been accomplished.
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The Resurrection is the strongest message of HOPE possible. Hope is about the FUTURE. The future is PERSONAL. The future is CERTAIN! The future is unimaginably WONDERFUL.
Knowing Jesus 3 - Worship
Big Idea: You can’t know and understand Jesus unless you know Him as King!
Luke 19:28-40
Palm Sunday means, “Jesus is KING”
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He is the TRUE King
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He is the HUMBLE King Zechariah 9:9 Isaiah 11:6-9
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How can you make Him YOUR King?
WORSHIP Him
OBEY Him
EXPECT GREAT THINGS from Him.
Knowing Jesus, 2 “Life With A Mission” April 2, 2017
Big Idea: When your purpose and mission are clear, life is far less complicated.
Luke 5:1-25
- Jesus calls you on mission in your VOCATION
Do your work WITH GOD Colossians 3:23
Keep RESULTS and PROFITS where they belong
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Jesus calls you on mission to the FRINGES
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Jesus calls you on mission among your PEOPLE Mark 9
When you know the WHY of your life, the WHAT and the HOW are far less con-fusing and far more fulfilling.
We were made to GLORIFY God and LOVE people. It really is that simple.
Knowing Jesus, 1 “Saturated in the Scriptures”
Luke 4:1-13
Big Idea: Jesus shows us how engaging the Scriptures leads us to victory over the strategic, complicated and very real activity of Evil.
The complexity of evil: Luke 22:3; Ephesians 4:27; Genesis 4:6-7; John 10:10; 1 Peter 5:8
The Bible describes three enemies: the WORLD, the FLESH and the DEVIL
If you nurture spiritual DARKNESS, it gives an opportunity for evil to create an alliance in you and take you places you don’t want to go.
The strategy of evil: Get something GOOD to become more important to you than HONORING God.
Two weapons he uses: TEMPTATION and ACCUSATION
The way to defeat evil is the MEANS and the MESSAGE of Scripture.
The Scriptures are your WEAPON:
The power of your weapon is the MESSAGE:
How to defeat & overcome evil: 1. Align your WORLD VIEW with the Bible. 2. Constantly behold the FINISHED work of Jesus. 3. If Jesus didn’t attempt to handle life without the SCRIPTURE. dominating his thoughts, what makes us think we should.
Seeing Jesus 8 – Lazarus
John 11:18-44
Big Idea: Jesus knows no barriers in resurrecting life and restoring hope.
Even in times of DOUBT Jesus is present and FAITHFUL.
““Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” John 11:21
It’s possible to TRUST Jesus and still experience profound DISAPPOINTMENT.
“Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”” John 11:23-24
Jesus is the RESURRECTION and the LIFE.
Jesus doesn’t just have ACCESS to divine power but He himself IS divine power.
“Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. “Take away the stone,” he said. John 11:38
John 9:1-7; 35-38 Matthew 6:22-24
Misunderstanding SUFFERING can contribute to spiritual blindness.
Three problems with attaching suffering to SIN
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It creates tremendous pride and SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS in the heart of the blessed
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It’s not TRUE to the FACTS. Luke 13:2-9
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People suffering BEAT THEMSELVES UP even more. Romans 8:28
To experience life in Jesus we must gain SPIRITUAL SIGHT To see is to REALIZE.
Moving From Spiritual Blindness to Spiritual Sight: 1. The people who are the most ADVANTAGED in the world are the most DISADVANTAGED in spiritual sight. Revelation 3:17
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The deepest blindness is BLINDNESS to your own BLINDNESS.
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Blindness is healed by SEEING Jesus.
People who see well, WORSHIP well.
Seeing Jesus, Week 6 "Walking on Water In A Storm"
The Big Idea: God refuses to allow us to control Him, yet uses His uncontrollable power to lovingly and sacrificially redeem us.
John 6:16-25
The huge subject of this sign is our need for CONTROL
There is a Universal Effort to CONTROL God.
Jesus did not come, primarily, to deal with our POLITICAL, ECONOMIC and SOCIAL problems, as crucial as they are.
We all experience the ILLUSION of control.
Two times Jesus meets people in storms: once he CALMS THE STORM and the other time He gets them THROUGH THE STORM
The Heart of the Uncontrollable God: 1. I am the UNCAUSED CAUSE 2. You need not be AFRAID 3. One greater than JONAH is here. Matthew 16:4
The Big Idea: Jesus is, in Himself, the source and supply of the life you were created for.
John 6:1-14; 27-35
The Bread: - SUSTENANCE - FRIENDSHIP - PROVISION from God - DEPENDENCE upon God
Of Life: Two words for life - BIOS and ZOE
Jesus: I am the TREATY with God
The number one answer to every challenge you face is more of JESUS
What About Us? v69 and 70 1. God already knows and sometimes TESTS you. v6 2. Jesus created the food but had the disciples DELIVER IT
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
What difference would it make if Jesus had only said He would give them the bread of life rather than “I am the bread of life”?
Have you seen Jesus’ ability to keep you going in your own life? If so, in what way?
Have Jesus’ claims or statements ever caused you to get upset or be confused? Was your difficulty resolved? If so, how? If not, why not?
The people asked Jesus to show them a sign. What do you think Jesus could have done to convince people of His claims? To convince you?
Some people seek to know about Jesus for reasons other than discovering “truth.” This passage suggests at least one skewed motive of why people seek God. Can you identify it? Can you think of other false reasons that motivate people to seek Jesus?
Jesus had a clear sense of His mission on earth. Do you have a clear sense of your goal, purpose, and mission? Has God helped you understand what your goal, purpose, and mission are? If so, how?
Seeing Jesus, Week 4 “The Good Stuff”
The Big Idea: Every human soul is searching for the good stuff and we find it in Jesus alone; not in people or in religion.
John 5:1-18
Every human soul is searching for the GOOD STUFF.
The Man and His Stuff: His first four words reveal his heart: “I HAVE NO ONE.” When confronted by the Pharisees he chooses his STRATEGY. Jesus urges him to stop looking to MEN.
The Ugly Result of Religion: Man’s RULES trump God’s LOVE.
The Bold Declaration of Jesus: I and the Father are ALWAYS WORKING.
What this means to us: RELIGION subtly becomes the saboteur of the good stuff. The GOOD STUFF is ultimately found in Jesus alone. The gift of Jesus is profound REST.
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
When you are sick, what brings you comfort? What do you want besides getting better?
How do you feel when you see people make wrong decisions even in the face of clear and compelling evidence?
Read John 5:1-18 What does Jesus mean by his question in verse 6?
How did the man think that he was being treated by others at the pool?
What did he think he needed?
In what way is the pool at Bethesda similar to the water from John 2 and John 4?
In what ways do people today seek to be healed spiritually outside of Christ?
Before you were saved what stood in the way of you seeing Jesus as Christ?
Have you ever had a religion that is outwardly pious but inwardly bankrupt?
How do we guard against this?
Did Jesus know how the Jews would react to the man carrying his mat on the Sabbath?
Why did Jesus choose to perform this miracle on the Sabbath?
Seeing Jesus, 3 “The Development of Faith”
The Big Idea: Out of his great love for us, Jesus oversees and designs much of our faith development journey.
John 4:46-54; John 20:30-31
We learn 5 things about Faith 1. Belief systems begin with REASON and involve your REASONING. V45-47
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Life-giving faith has to move beyond REASON to real TRUST.
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Jesus will lovingly push you from REASON to life-saving personal TRUST.
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Life-giving faith saves by its OBJECT not by its QUALITY.
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Real life-giving faith comes to love Jesus for WHO HE IS, not WHAT HE CAN DO.
He told his whole OIKOS and they believed!!! V53
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Recall a time when your faith was challenged? What was it and how did you navigate through that time?
Can you recall when your faith in Jesus moved from reason to trust? Explain that process and experience.
Have you ever had to journey a length of time trusting in Jesus' word but not seeing or knowing a result? Explain the experience and what helped your journey.
Pray over each other that we would all seek and trust in Jesus and not what he can do for us.
The Big Idea: Jesus is the One who carries away our guilt and shame so that we can experience joy - even in the face of suffering.
John 2:1-11
John records very few miracles and calls them SIGNS
3 things help us understand what this sign points to: 1. The six stone jars “I have come to bring the reality that the Jewish rituals only POINT TO.”
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The interesting exchange with his mom. Jesus is thinking about his own WEDDING DAY Revelation 21:1-5 Matthew 22:2
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The Wine Jesus is the real Lord of the feast. He knows how to bring JOY.
5 things this means to us: 1. Any wine except this wine will RUN OUT. 2. Do whatever HE TELLS YOU. 3. Learn how to draw on your knowledge of what’s COMING IN THE FUTURE to help you deal with the troubles of the present. 4. Please don’t let MARRIAGE throw you. 5. Don’t settle for anything less than a rich PRAYER LIFE.
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
• Can you remember an epiphany about Jesus that has changed your faith journey? Explain
Read this week’s passage. John 2:1-11
• Have you ever experienced a miracle in your life that represented something greater than the immediate need? Explain
• What does it mean to you or what would it mean to you to no longer have to battle shame? Truly accepting that you are cleansed by the blood of Jesus. How has this or how might this reality change your life?
Quoting Jim… Digest what you are in Christ. Take deeply in what He has done for you and know that you are adored by someone you adore. Right now we have it by faith, but one day we will have it by sight - and the thought of that is like wine we sip right now in anticipation.
• What would this mean to us if we took this seriously? That we are his bride?
Seeing Jesus, 1 “The Lamb of God”
The Big Idea: Truly seeing Jesus changes the way you see every thing and every one.
John 1:19-34
John is being asked, WHAT IS YOUR IDENTITY?
John could not see his own GREATNESS Matthew 11:7-15
John's View of Jesus: YAHWEH The One on whom the SPIRIT SAT His SANDALS I am not worthy to UNTIE
John was great because he grasped the GREATNESS of Jesus.
EGO keeps you afraid and bashful, or bold and arrogant. How can we remove my ego? - BEHOLD the LAMB of God
Shocker - you are GREATER than JOHN If you see Jesus:
- You’ll have an identity the doesn’t CRUSH you
- You’ll have an identity that won’t crush other PEOPLE
- You can become a VOICE
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
• What would you say your identity is? How do you know this? What contributed to this belief?
• What does or what would it do for you to completely grasp the greatness of Jesus? Explain
• We are greater than John because we have witnessed the death and resurrection of Jesus. Can you explain how this is true in your own words?
• One of the points is that your identity is being a voice for Jesus. How can we become a better voice? Explain.
Wisdom Week 3 “How to Live in Wisdom” January 15, 2017 Speaker - Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: Living in wisdom is a process that will require focused pursuit.
Proverbs 4:5-9, 14-27
Wisdom: Competence with regard to the REALITIES of life
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A life of wisdom is a unavoidable FIGHT. V5-9
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A life of wisdom is a guarded HEART. V23
Your heart is where you hold the beliefs about the things you MUST HAVE to receive life joyfully.
What the heart chooses to BELIEVE, the mind perceives and finds reasonable, the emotions desire and find beautiful, the will does and finds practical.
- A living WORD v20-22
John 5:39 Proverbs 8 and John 1
Jesus is the WISDOM of God because He is the WORD of God.
Wisdom, Week 2. “Where to Get It Speaker - Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: Wisdom is acquired as character is developed over time, through the small, daily decisions of life.
Proverbs 3:1-12
Wisdom: Competence with regard to the REALITIES of life
Life is a PATHWAY
The actions you take repeatedly in your life MAKE YOU SOMETHING
How do I grow in Wisdom? KNOWING God “Let love and faithfulness never leave you...”
TRUSTING God “Trust in the Lord with all your heart”
Submitting to His WORD “And lean not on your own understanding...”
Living in COMMUNITY V7 “do not be wise in your own eyes”
Ruling over MONEY “Honor the Lord with the firstfruits ....”
What is the Wisdom Catalyst? “Do not despise the Lord’s discipline....”
Nobody gets wise without SUFFERING.
The Key - Knowing the Lord DELIGHTS IN YOU.
Hebrews 12:5-11, 1-2
Wisdom, part 1 “What is it?” January 1, 2017 Speaker - Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: Let’s make 2017 the year of growing in Wisdom.
Proverbs 1:1-9, 22, 32-33
What is Wisdom? Look at the synonyms: Insight: a Hebrew word that means “to NOTICE DIFFERENCES” Prudence - a Hebrew word that means “PRACTICAL” or “STRATEGIC” Instruction - “Depth of CHARACTER”
Wisdom is competence with regard to the REALITIES OF LIFE.
Why is wisdom important? V32 The waywardness of the simple will kill them - foolishness of fools will destroy them. Lack of wisdom isn’t just unfortunate - it will DESTROY you. Wisdom is a problem because we are all FOOLS by nature
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child” Proverbs 22:15
How do I find wisdom? V7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and instruction” You find wisdom through positive FEAR and the freedom of GRACE.
“Because you have forgiven me, therefore I fear you.” Psalm 130:4
COMMUNITY GROUP QUESTIONS
Proverbs Chapter 1
• What was one of the hardest choices you’ve ever had to make? How did you arrive at your decision?
• Is there someone who you admire for his or her wisdom? Explain or give an example.
• In verse 32 it says the waywardness of the simple will kill them. What does this mean to you? Do you have an example?
• Jim made the statement; “A simpleton cares too much what people think. A fool doesn't care enough about what people think.” Which way do you tend to lean? How can we help each other move more towards middle ground?
• Verse 7 states that The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Jim says we find wisdom through positive Fear. How do you interpret “Positive Fear”?
Luke Chapter 1-2
When God says He's going to MAKE A WAY, He makes a way.
Favor is not the ABSENCE of struggles.
God is OFFERING us a chance to be called favored.
The Adventure of a Lifetime, 2 "Oikos and Opportunity" December 4, 2016 Speaker - Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: The Big Idea: God is asking you to change your world and us together to change the world.
The secret sauce of Christianity is THE HOLY SPIRIT
John 14; John 3:5-8; Acts 1:8; John 16:13; Luke 12:12
Consider all that God has given you: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
And now what you give God is your OBEDIENCE
The Super Simple Plan of God: - Intimacy with GOD - a conviction that a relationship with Jesus is the most important thing in the world.
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Intentionality with FAMILY - a commitment to serve and nurture the closest relationships God has entrusted to us.
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Investment in OIKOS - a calling to use our lives and resources to help our 8-15 find their way to a thriving relationship with Jesus.
The Adventure of a Lifetime, 1 - The Invitation
The Big Idea: The call of Jesus is a call to join Him in the adventure of a lifetime.
The Call Is Simple: 1) FOLLOW ME 2) GO BACK and TELL
John 14:6-14
If following Jesus is awesome, then it’s even more exciting in GROUPS.
Matthew 16:18-19
Matthew 18:18-20
We, together, are the CALLED OUT ONES - the “ekklesia”
We have the KEYS!
The Church Challenge: - The Church is a CORPORATION. - The Church is a COMMUNITY. - The Church is a CAUSE.
For 2,000 years the Church has existed for one reason: To TRANSFORM the world.
Jesus is asking you to transform YOUR world and He is asking us to transform THE world.
Are we the BURGER KING church or the HOME DEPOT church?
WE ARE CALLED TO BE THANKFUL
Colossians 1:12-14
“Giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins”.
Giving thanks to the Father:
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Who has qualified us to share the inheritance.
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Who has rescued us from the dominion of darkness.
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Who has transferred us into the kingdom of His Son Jesus.
Small Group Discussion Questions
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What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition?
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What am I grateful for in my life? Why?
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We often thank God for our jobs, homes and families. But who are you thankful for today?
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How do I SHOW my gratitude? "Gratitude in Action!"
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How do you show thanks to God?
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In our culture many people believe they deserve this or that. As Christians, how can our attitude of thanksgiving, even in desperate circumstances, impact unbelievers?
Read the following passages and discuss how you can do these things better.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6
"Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the word of Christ - the Message - have the run of the house." Colossians 3:15-16
"Enter the Temple gates with thanksgiving." Psalm 100:4
Right on the Money, 4: Attitudes and Strategies
The Big Idea: How you handle money is an outward indicator of an inward condition.
Attitudes guide STRATEGY.
4 Attitudes That Drive Financial Strategy: 1. GRATITUDE Ephesians 1:1-14
Strategy: you RECEIVE and you WORSHIP in one motion. Malachi 3:10-12
The faithfulness with which you tithe is probably why you're BROKE.
- DILIGENCE Proverbs 6:6-11
Strategy: you SAVE.
Spending more money than you make isn't just FOOLISH, It's SINFUL.
The amount you save is probably why you're STRESSED.
- CONTENTMENT Philippians 4:11-13
Strategy: you spend less than 80% of what you receive.
Proverbs 21:5
The amount you spend is probably why you rarely GIVE or SAVE.
- GENEROSITY John 3:16
Strategy: You use your margin to ENCOURAGE others.
The help you give others is probably why you're UNFULFILLED.
A Strategic Formula For Money: 1. Stop arguing with God about the TITHE. 2. Identify how much you RECEIVE from the Lord. 3. Give God your FIRST FRUITS. 4. Start a SAVINGS regiment. 5. Never spend more than 80% of what you receive.
Luke 16:10-13
Right on the Money, 3 “Money and the Blessing of God” November 6, 2016 Speaker - Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: The greatest thing you can have in this life is the favor of God.
Psalm 81:8-16 Hosea 4:16
How to Pursue the Blessing of God: 1. God blesses a PRIORITY correction Proverbs 3:7-26
Mammon Inc.: The Jesus Company: 1. EARN 1. RECEIVE 2. SPEND/PAY 2. TITHE 3. SAVE 3. SAVE 4. GIVE 4. SPEND/PAY 5. GIVE
Money can reveal your STUBBORNNESS James 4:1-4
- God blesses a deeper CONFIDENCE Galatians 6:7-10
The Law of the FARM never fails James 4:6-10 Proverbs 10:4-5
- God blesses enthusiastic COOPERATION 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
The blessed life: Jeremiah 29:11-13 Romans: 8:28-39
Right on the Money - “The Purpose of Money” (Week 2) October 30, 2016
The Big Idea: Understanding the purpose of money brings clarity on how to use it well.
Three Money Myths: 1. Pastors TALK TOO MUCH about it 2. 10% belongs to God 3. Financial blessing is a sign of God’s LOVE
Money is a TOOL
When God gives you more of it, He is not saying He loves you more. He is saying He wants to USE YOU more.
Luke 12:41-48
Generosity is a TRIGGER Proverbs 11:25; Luke 16:1-13
The Purpose of Money: WORSHIP: God is HONORED PROVISION: I am BLESSED MISSION: People are TRANSFORMED
When Money Is Used Well: 1. The Master is PLEASED 2. The worker becomes a TRUSTED PARTNER 3. We behave wisely because we know we will GIVE AN ACCOUNT 4. The worker will be given his own REWARD 5. We not only get to HEAVEN, but our TREASURE awaits us there Matthew 6:19-20 6. Our Master will not only call us home, He will call us IN. Matthew 25:21
Community Group Discussion Questions
• Jim made a statement when referencing Psalm 24:1 that you can give 10% and still be disobedient. What do you think he meant by that?
The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; Psalm 24:1
• What is the hardest part for you when it comes to trusting God with your money?
ABC’s of Money
• What do you personally need to ADMIT to God about money?
• What do you personally need to BELIEVE about God and money?
• What do you personally need to CHOOSE today when it comes to God and money?
Right on the Money, 1 “A Choice is required” Oct 23, 2016 Speaker - Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: You cannot serve two masters.
Luke 16:1-15; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; 17-19
Your Two Options: 1. Mammon, Inc. - Where you work for money Corporate Structure: MONEY YOU JESUS Corporate Value: GREED Corporate Mission: ACCUMULATE Mission Statement: He who DIES with the most TOYS wins
- The Jesus Company - Where money works for you Corporate Structure: JESUS YOU OTHERS Corporate Value: GENEROSITY Corporate Mission: DISTRIBUTE Mission Statement: He who DIES with the most joy GIVES
Which Company do I work for? _______% was given back to the Lord _______% was saved for emergencies, margin, and retirement _______% was spent on me and my family _______% was used making someone else’s world a better place
Matthew 6:19-24 Values dictate STRATEGY Generosity is not what you DO, it’s WHO YOU ARE A CHOICE is required, so prepare to MAKE ONE Money does not CHANGE US. It simply provides a more visible way to express WHO WE ARE.
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION
• Ask the group to debrief for those who missed the sermon on Sunday. • What stood out? Do you have any questions? • Were there any special moments of clarity where God spoke to you clearly? • Why is this important and worth discussion?
What do these verses say about the significance of how we use our money?
Do you find yourself falling into the trap of thinking that you would be generous and a better steward if you had more?
Jim’s last two points where a choice is required so prepare to make one; and Money does not change us it simply provides a more visible way to express who you are. In light of these two points is God calling you to any practical application? What positive steps can you take? Is there any active repentance necessary?
It is not good TO BE ALONE
WHY ARE WE SO LONELY? 1. Breakdown of FAMILIES. 2. Increased MOBILITY 3. Heavy WORKLOADS 4. Rise of SOCIAL MEDIA
OVERCOMING THE LIES OF LONELINESS: 1. I am ALONE 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 2. No one UNDERSTANDS 2 Corinthians 1:5-6 3. God has LEFT ME Hebrews 12:1-3 4. I don’t have enough FAITH John 16:32-33
HOW DO WE LOVE THE LONELY? 1. Love with TOUCH. Matt 8:2-3 2. Love by LISTENING. Luke 24:17-19 3. Love with TIME. Luke 5:17-19, Luke 8:22-24, Luke 8:43, Mark 1:35-39
You can’t impact EVERYONE. But you can impact SOMEONE.
Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness. Isa 41:10
Message Notes:
Poverty is RELATIVE
Matthew 25:31-46
What you do for the LEAST OF THESE, you do for Jesus. 1 John 3:17-18 Proverbs 19:17
What is Poverty? Most Americans define poverty as a lack of something MATERIAL The truly poor define it as an IDENTITY The goal is to help them change, not just what they HAVE, but how they THINK The root of all poverty is BROKENNESS
Luke 4:18-19 Jesus said TODAY this scripture is fulfilled
We Are Called: 1. To SERVE others not to SAVE others 2. RELATE with people not RESCUE people 3. Reach OUT not reach DOWN
Big Idea: God calls His people to care for the orphan.
There are more than 400,000 foster kids in the U.S. without homes There are 10,068 in Washington
The Church is PLAN A
James 1:27
God - A conviction that a relationship with Jesus is the most important thing in life.
Family - A commitment to nurture and serve the most intimate relationships God has entrusted to us.
Others - A calling to invest my life in the 8-15 God has supernaturally and strategically placed around me.
Psalm 82:3-4 ; Psalm 68:5; Deuteronomy 14:28-29; Ephesians 1:5
2 Promises: 1. It won’t BE EASY 2. The CHILD is worth it
People don’t just need a family - they need GOD’S FAMILY
How to Neighbor - RACISM September 18, 2016 Speaker - Jim Ladd
Luke 10:29
Racism is not a SKIN issue, it's a SIN issue.
James 2:9
How do we Neighbor those different from us? 1) Recognize any PREJUDICES. • Prejudice: (prejudging) preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. 2) Seek to UNDERSTAND others. 3) Love those DIFFERENT from you. • Racism isn’t just the presence of HATRED - It’s the absence of LOVE.
Galatians 3:28
Revelation 7: 9-10
Romans 10:12
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Take some time to share with each other some of your prejudices you have.
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How do the prejudices we have, potentially affect how we treat our neighbors or people in our community?
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What is one practical step you can take this week, to begin to allow God to change your heart, mind, and attitude in that area?
Mark 4:35
Joshua 3:10
Mark 5:1-20
Mark 6 location: ISREAL
Mark 8 location: DECAPOLIS
Mark 6 initiator: DISCIPLES
Mark 8:1-4
Mark 8 initiator: JESUS
Mark 6 leftover: 12 baskets
Mark 8 leftovers: 7 baskets
Mark 15:30-31
Oikos is the primary reason 95% of all Christians actually are Christians.
Mark 5:19
Luke 19:9
John 4:53
Mark 2:15
Acts 11:14
Mark 5:19
Community Group Discussion Questions
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Who makes up your Oikos?
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Who were you not considering in your Oikos, that you now should?
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What are some practical ways, you can use the influence you have with your Oikos to point people to Jesus?
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What is one practical step you can take this week, to invest in someone in your Oikos?
Peace by Piece, pt 4 September 4, 2016 Speaker - Jim Ladd
Big Idea: The way you handle conflict speaks volumes about your commitment to Christ and to His Kingdom.
John 13:34-35.
Last Week’s Three Guiding Principles in Conflict: 1. Don’t SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF 2. Don’t SPREAD THE BIG STUFF 3. Don’t STOP IF YOU GET STIFFED
Matthew 18:15-17
Guiding Principles of Conflict, #4-6: 4. Trust God with all your LOSSES. 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 5. Know when to WALK AWAY. Matthew 7:1-6 6. Guard YOUR HEART ABOVE ALL THINGS. Proverbs 4:23
How do I know if my heart is fully His?: - I refuse to condemn the person who is hurting me - I am humbled and broken when confronted about my own sin - I seek always to grow closer to Jesus and be conformed to His image - I stop ever seeking to justify myself and my behavior - I trust only, exclusively, and passionately in the accomplished work of Jesus for my salvation.
Peace by Piece, pt 3 August 28, 2016
Big Idea: True love moves in when failing love moves out.
The number one predictor of divorce or broken relationships is poor CONFLICT RESOLUTION
How God Makes People Whole: The WORD of God The SPIRIT of God The PEOPLE of God
Proverbs 27:5-6; 17
How Do I Speak The Truth In Love? Don’t SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF Don’t SPREAD THE BIG STUFF Don’t stop if you GET STIFFED
Colossians 3:12-14 2 Timothy 2:24-26 Ephesians 4:1-3
Eight Step Action Plan: PRAY - for humility and wisdom 1 Peter 5:5 PLAN - your words carefully Proverbs 20:18 CHOOSE - the right time and place Proverbs 16:21 ASSUME - nothing except that you lack information Proverbs 18:17 LISTEN - carefully Proverbs 18:13 SPEAK - only words that build up Ephesians 4:29 ASK - for feedback Proverbs 18:2 TRUST - God Romans 12:18
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
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When you think of the last conflict you had, what growth area was exposed in you, that could benefit from God’s help?
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What are some helpful verses in God’s Word to help you with that?
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Which resonates more with you, a need to stop worrying about the little things, or a need to unnecessarily sharing with others about your conflict?
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What is a practical step you can take this week, to work toward health in that area?
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Is there a relationship that you need to resolve conflict with? What step can you take today, to begin to move toward restoration with that person?
Peace by Piece, pt 2 August 21, 2016 Speaker - Daniel Sabo
Big Idea:God has given us a way through conflict that offers healing to all, and glorifies Him in the process.
Ask God & others for help with SELF-AWARENESS Proverbs 27:6
Address everyone INVOLVED ASAP Ephesians 4:29
Avoid “IF” “BUT” and “MAYBE” Ephesians 4:15; Matthew 5:37
APOLOGIZE James 5:16
Ask for FORGIVENESS Ephesians 4:32
Accept the CONSEQUENCES Galatians 6:7,8
Alter your BEHAVIOR James 1:22-25 ; Proverbs 24:16
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What gets in the way of you resolving conflict with people?
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Do you struggle to make the first step toward restoration? Why do you think that is?
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Have you ever been forgiven, but still experienced consequences for your actions? Is that okay?
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In your opinion, what is the different between apologizing and asking for forgiveness?
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If there is someone you are needing to resolve conflict with, what is one step you can take today, to begin that process?
Peace by Piece pt1 August 14, 2016 Speaker - Jim Ladd
Big Idea: Conflict provides one of the greatest opportunities for Christians to reveal the heart of their Father.
Conflict Provides a Win-Win-Win Opportunity: You get to GLORIFY God You get to SERVE someone well You get to GROW personally
Ephesians 5:1-2
When God was offended, He moved TOWARD US
Ephesians 4:1-3
The Slippery Slope Peace FAKING Peace MAKING Matthew 5:9 Peace TAKING
Philippians 1:29-30
Hebrews 10:32-33
Romans 12:9-21
The Guiding Principle: Seek to DWELL and COMPLETE in times of conflict.
John 1:14
James 2:22
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. How do you typically respond when you are faced with conflict?
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Do you typically lean toward peace faking, peace making, or peace taking?
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What gets in the way of remaining connected to others during conflict?
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What prevents you from seeing conflict all the way through to completion?
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If there is someone you have unresolved conflict with, what is one step you can take this week to move toward restoration?
Great By Choice - Discipline August 7, 2016 Pastor Daniel Sabo
Big Idea: Greatness is a matter of choice because the choices we make establish patterns. Patterns establish Habits and habits shape our destiny.
Daniel chose discipline in his desiring the GOOD OF OTHERS
Daniel chose discipline in his WORK
Daniel chose discipline in his FAITH
God has given us an EXTRAORDINARY Spirit
COMMUNITY GROUP QUESTIONS 1. How could choosing discipline more in your life help you in your journey?
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What gets in the way of you making disciplined decisions?
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What are some practical disciplined choices you could make in your relationships? your work?
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What is one step you can take this week, to choose discipline in your faith walk?
Great by Choice, 4: The Choice for Courage
The Big Idea: Courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to let faith conquer fear through obedience.
Backstory on Deborah: Judges 4:4-5 (pg 167) She was a PROPHETESS She was a JUDGE She was WISE
Judges 4:6-12
Notes from the Battlefield:
- The ENEMY is real and intimidating
- Fear will always search for SOLID FOOTING
- The strategy for success is FAITHFUL OBEDIENCE 4. Being in God's Kingdom and in His FAVOR are distinctly different things
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. How would you define courage?
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If courage is something we choose, what is a situation you are facing now, where you need to choose to be courageous?
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What are some of the things that get in the way of making courageous decisions?
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What changes when we allow faith to fuel our courage, rather than our will?
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What is a step you can take this week, to let your faith-led courage move you forward?
Great by Choice, part 3: The Choice for Integrity July 24, 2016 Pastor Jim Ladd
The Big Idea: Integrity is fueled by an unshakeable trust in God.
Genesis 39:6-12
Joseph's choice, and it was a great one, was INTEGRITY
INTEGRATED faith results in a life of INTEGRITY
Integrity isn't something you HAVE; it's something you CHOOSE
Joseph's Five Keys For Making This Choice:
- Choose the greater YES without compromise
- Think about other PEOPLE Genesis 39:8-9; 40:1-6
- Consider things that are WICKED as WICKED
- Recognize God's PRESENCE
- REMOVE yourself rapidly when necessary
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
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How would you define integrity?
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What typically gets in the way of making choices with integrity?
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How could a life of choosing integrity change your relationship with others?
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How could a life of choosing integrity help you on your mission as a follower of Jesus?
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What is a circumstance you are facing now that requires you to make a choice of integrity?
Great By Choice, “Sacrifice” July 17, 2016 Speaker -Jim Ladd
Big Idea: .Many times the choice to be great is also the choice of sacrifice.
Life has KAIROS and CHRONOS moments
Esther 4:9-11
Esther 4:12-14
“Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16
What is a great life? A LIFE FOR CHRIST
No Reserves. No Retreats. No Regrets.
Great By Choice, 1 “Wisdom” July 10, 2016
Big Idea: Greatness is not a circumstance; it is intentionally chosen.
“...if there’s one overarching message arising from more than six thousand years of [combined] corporate history across all our research...it would be this: greatness is not primarily a matter of circumstance; greatness is first and foremost a matter of conscious choice…” Jim Collins
Deuteronomy 28:1-14 and Matthew 10:34-39 1 Kings 3:5-15
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-16
Choosing Wisdom: 1. PRAY for it. James 1:5 2. STUDY it. 3. ASK the Question. 4. ACT on it. 5. Seek COUNSEL.
Zechariah 4:6-10 What will you do now to grow in wisdom?
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. 1 out of 3 adults say they are not living life fully, what about you?
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What reasons play a large role in you giving that answer?
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What is a decision, or a change you need to make, that requires wisdom to decide?
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What is a wise choice you can make this week, that will help you move forward in that direction?
CITIZENS OF TWO KINGDOMS July 3, 2016
1 Peter 2:11-20
Live as FOREIGNERS (vs 11 -12)
Live as CITIZENS (vs 13-14)
Live as EMPLOYEES (vs 15-16)
Father’s Day June 19, 2016
The Big Idea: Today’s decision changes tomorrow’s outcome.
God’s advice: I. Love their MOM. Ephesians 5:25-30
II. TEACH your children a) About GOD Deuteronomy 11:18-21 b) Do not PROVOKE them Ephesians 6:4
III. DISCIPLINE your children Proverbs 19:18
IV. Speak to them about POSSIBILITIES Psalm 78:2-8
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
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When you reflect over your journey as a father, or your journey with your father, what words would you use to describe what has been true?
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If as a father, you are unsatisfied with your history, what are some changes God is challenging you to make moving forward? What is one step you can make this week that will move you in that direction?
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What are the characteristics our heavenly Father shows to us as His children? What can we learn from those, and how can we apply them?
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What impact can a father have on his children and family, when he reflects the characteristics of his heavenly Father? If the impact is great, what, if anything, is stopping you from walking into that place of influence?
Breath of God “The Gifts of the Spirit” June 12, 2016
The Big Idea: Everything the Body needs it already has, through the Presence of the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12, 14
Romans 12
Ephesians 4
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
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Have you ever considered that God has given you spiritual gifts? What is the primary use for those gifts?
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Where do you suppose God wants you to use the gifts He has given you?
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Have you ever been on the receiving end of someone using their spiritual gift for your benefit? How did that impact you?
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Have you ever used the gifts God has given you to bless others? How did it impact them?
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Do you know what Spiritual Gifts you have been given? What practical step can you take to begin to discover them?
Breath of God “The Fruit of the Spirit” June 5, 2016
Galatians 5
The journey is about CONFORMITY to Jesus
WALK by the Spirit: Galatians 5:16
Psalm 1
At the Holy Spirit’s coming at conversion divine PERFECTION does not set in…but divine INFECTION does.
EVERYTHING is a work of the Spirit :
The Fruit in the Bowl: 1. LOVE: “self-sacrificial giving for the sake of others” 2. JOY: Entirely based on what God has done for us in Christ through the Spirit 3. PEACE: “shalom” “wholeness; well being” A virtue that stands against the works of the flesh 4. FORBEARANCE: “The passive and tenacious side of love” 5. KINDNESS: “The active and tenacious side of love” 6. GOODNESS: “all embracing quality of character” 7. FAITH “Trust in God producing a long obedience in the same direction” 8. GENTLENESS: “Humility towards self that produces considerateness toward others” 9. SELF-CONTROL: “Life in moderation, but with abstinence for the sake of someone else” • only one on the list not used elsewhere to describe the character of God • only one clearly aimed at the individual believer
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What do you believe the fruits of the Spirit are? What are they for?
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What causes the fruits of the Spirit to be a part of our life and character?
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What is our part in pursuing a life filled with these gifts? Where should our focus be?
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Which fruit do you feel like God is wanting to make a bigger part of your life? What is a practical step you can take this week, to allow God to make that a reality?
Breath of God “The Spirit Against the Flesh” May 29, 2016
Romans 6 & 7
Big Idea: Through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit God has opened a new way for us to live and to walk in godliness.
Romans 7 & 8
Galatians 5
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When the Bible talks about our "flesh" what do you think it's referring to?
- When God gives us a New Way to live, what does that look like? How do we walk into the New Way?
- If our strength to walk in new life comes from God, why do we struggle with trying to achieve it by our own strength?
- What is an area in your life that God is calling you to walk in a new way? What is one practical step you can take this week to move in that direction?
Breath of God 2 “The Spirit of Power” May 22, 2016
Big Idea: The Holy Spirit wants to empower you to crucify your flesh and become more like Jesus for the common good.
The Holy Spirit is guaranteed to ask you to go somewhere or do something YOU DON’T WANT TO DO.
We are called to walk in COMMUNAL accountability and BIBLICAL integrity.
Acts 8:20-23
Five Reasons The Spirit wants to give you Power: 1. To be His MARTYR- Acts 1:8; Ephesians 3:16-19 2. To put to death your SIN - Galatians 5:16-17 3. To HOPE - Romans 15:13 4. To use your gifts to SERVE - 1 Corinthians 12:7 5. To bring Christ’s CHARACTER to life - 2 Corinthians 3:18
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The Holy Spirit has given you the supernatural ability to serve the people God has placed around you!
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You are a vital part of the Church of Jesus Christ!
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We are crippled without your involvement!
COMMUNITY GROUP QUESTIONS
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Do you want the power of the Spirit in your life? Why and what for?
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Do you have any fears about the Holy Spirit? Where do they come from?
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What is the Spirit doing in your life that is making a major difference in you?
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What is the Spirit doing through your life that is making a major difference in others?
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What can you change in your stance or approach to the Holy Spirit, that would affect the impact you are having or experiencing?
Breath of God “Meet the Holy Spirit” May 15, 2016
Big Idea: The Holy Spirit is a Person and His influence upon Christians should be dramatic.
John 14:16-17
Who is the Holy Spirit?
Why do so many believe but have no power? Acts 19:1-3; Acts 7:51
Three ways the Holy Spirit will help you? 1. He will COMFORT you - John 14:16 2. He will COUNSEL you - John 16:13; Isaiah 30:21 3. He will CONVICT you - John 16:8
“if you then who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will my Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask” Luke 11:13
The Awesome Power of Mom May 8, 2016
Big Idea: Mothers have been divinely positioned to leave a legacy.
God’s design for motherhood is MAGNIFIED at creation Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 2:15-23
A mother’s connection to her young DEFIES human understanding 1 Kings 3:16-28
The man’s role in motherhood is to be the mother’s biggest ADVOCATE.
Acts 16:1
2 Timothy 1:5
The God of Wrath & Mercy - “Christianity vs Islam" May 1, 2016
Intro to Islam The majority of Muslims are NOT FROM THE ARAB WORLD “Allah” is the Arabic word for GOD “Islam” means “obedience, SUBMISSION, or surrender “Muslim” means “one who is SURRENDERED”
The Five Pillers of Islam: 1. Recite the “SHAHADAH” 2. PRAYER 3. Practice an annual FAST 4. Give ALMS 5. Make a PILGRIMAGE 6. Some add a sixth: JIHAD
The Major Differences Between Islam and Christianity 1. the nature of GOD 2. The nature of the prophet JESUS 3. The nature of SALVATION 4. The nature of relationship to ENEMIES
The God of Wrath & Mercy - “Slaughters” April 24, 2016
Deuteronomy 20:10-18
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This was God’s planned PUNISHMENT of the people of Canaan for their ways. Genesis 15:12-16
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It was God’s CALL TO MAKE
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The command to kill every living thing was not LITERAL a. This was common HYPERBOLE in the day. b. This was for the CITIES only c. This was more about PURIFYING than PURGING 1) Punishment 2) ordained by God 3) Military against military
Matthew 5:38-42
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Is it difficult for you to consider God commanding people to be destroyed? Does the context of their behavior change your mind at all?
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Were the practices of the Canaanites deserving of God’s punishment? What does God’s willingness to wait and give them time to change say about God’s heart toward people?
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If the answer to some of these questions were simply, “God is God, and it is His world to deal with as He pleases.” is that enough for you?
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Is there a difference in your mind between the wars God sent people to fight in the Old Testament, and the wars our country fights in? Why or why not?
The God of Wrath & Mercy - Sacrifice April 17, 2016
Genesis 22:1-19
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Abraham had ABSOLUTE FAITH that Isaac would not die.
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Isaac also had FULL FAITH in God.
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Abraham and Isaac’s Faith Was WELL PLACED He wanted people to see the SEVERITY of their sins. Following Jesus’ sacrifice, there was NO OTHER sacrifice needed.
Luke 22:19-20
The God of Wrath & Mercy - “Punishment” April 10, 2016
Examples of punishment in Old Testament Leviticus 20:9; Lev. 24:10-14; Numbers 15:32-36; Duet. 21:18-21
Why are there so many "punishments" in the Old Testament? GOD WAS TRAINING UP A PEOPLE
The New Testament is the NEW AGREEMENT God made after JESUS.
The Old Testament (law) was to prepare people for the coming of a COMPLETE COVENANT in the Messiah.
Even with the strictest of punishments in Old Testament, MERCY was allowed in almost every case.
The ransom is JESUS 1 Timothy 2:3-6; Hebrews 9:13-15; Mark 10:45
The God of Wrath & Mercy - “The God of Two Testaments” April 3, 2016
A Testament is an AGREEMENT or COVENANT
The better way to think of them is the FIRST covenant and the FULFILLED covenant.
The HOLINESS of God and RUINED STATE of man. Isaiah 6:1-5
The God of HOLINESS is also a God of GRACE. Isaiah 6:6-7
The Hope of Easter March 27, 2016
Big Idea: Through Jesus, God reveals both who He is and the extravagance of His love for you.
2 Questions: What do you believe ABOUT GOD? WHY do you believe it?
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Hebrews 1:1-4
Learning what God is like from Jesus and Peter
- God chooses UNIMPRESSIVE people. Mark 1:16-18
- God invites you to an ORIENTATION ADJUSTMENT. Matthew 14:22-32
- God gives TO YOU what He asks FROM YOU. Matthew 16:16-19
- God is as committed to you when you FAIL as He is when you SUCCEED. Luke 22
- God has pre-planned your RESTORATION. Luke 22:32; Mark 16:7; John 21:7
Your faith doesn’t fail when you FALL. It fails when you WON’T GET BACK UP
The Surprising Secret to a Powerful Marriage BIG IDEA: Personal Responsibility is the fuel that drives the actions of a healthy marriage.
Marriages experience conflict for two reasons: 1. Couples fail to make each other HAPPY 2. Couples succeed at making each other UNHAPPY
A Few Surprises About Marriage: - God didn't invent marriage to make me HAPPY, but to make me WHOLE and HOLY Genesis 2:18-25
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The greatest threat to my marriage is ME Ephesians 5:22-33
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The surprising key to a powerful marriage is PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
Actions of Personal Responsibility: Ephesians 5:15-21 1. Make it your primary quest to gain CLARITY about your spouses REALITY 2. Stop asking the WRONG questions. 3. Always ask the PRODUCTIVE questions. 4. Ask the MILLION DOLLAR question: WHAT DO YOU NEED FROM ME? 5. Ask the TRILLION DOLLAR question: How can I get in alignment with what God is doing FOR THE GOOD OF MY SPOUSE? Personal responsibility + utter dependence upon God = MIRACLES
The Year of Health, part 5 “Healthy Love” January 24, 2016
The Big Idea: Healthy love is at its best when the going gets tough.
1 John 4:7-12
THE FACTS OF LOVE:
My ability and desire to love is profoundly connected to my KNOWLEDGE of God. V8
We SHOW our love the same way God SHOWED His v9
God’s love for me is made complete in me when I LOVE OTHERS v12
Love is made complete among us when it ELIMINATES FEAR v16-18
How To Be A Great Lover:
- Embrace the two most important truths about yourself:
You are more WICKED than you can possibly know
You are more profoundly LOVED than you can possibly imagine
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When you struggle to love someone, go back to STEP ONE
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Intentionally choose His NAME and REPUTATION as your own.
Proverbs 19:11; Exodus 34
Big Idea: We are all in process, and the source of our spiritual growth is Jesus.
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We all start out as SEEKERS
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We need to begin living our faith OUT LOUD
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God will give us opportunities to be BOLD
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God BEGINS and FINISHES the work in us
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NOW is always a GOOD time to follow Jesus
The Big Idea: Healthy trust in God requires that I learn the art of accepting responsibility and relinquishing control.
Proverbs 3:5-6
TRUST
LEAN
ACKNOWLEDGE God
ANTICIPATE STRAIGHT paths
Look at an example of control gone bad.
Genesis 16:1-4
Now, once you identify it, let’s ask three questions:
Is it worth my CONCERN?
Luke 10:41-42
Is it mine TO CONTROL?
James 4:13-14
Is it for GOD ALONE?
Philippians 4:6-7
The Big Idea: The two most important things about you are what you think about God and what you think about you.
WE MUST LAY DOWN:
Our feelings of INADEQUACY. Our need for CONTROL. Our right to be OFFENDED. Our longing for APPROVAL. Judges 6:11-16 THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND GOD:
- God’s VIEW of you is different than YOU THINK
v12; Ephesians 2:10
- God has GIVEN YOU more than YOU THINK
v14; 2 Peter 1:3
- It’s LESS about you than YOU THINK
v16; Philippians 4:13
The Kingdom Response to Darkness December 27, 2015
THE BIG IDEA: Darkness can never eliminate darkness; only light can do that.
Matthew 12:1-8
The foundational, guiding principle for our lives is that God desires MERCY more than virtually everything!
Hosea 6:1-6
As we live out MERCY, through the KNOWLEDGE OF GOD, His presence and power will be our experience.
Matthew 12:9-14
What does the desire to KILL reveal about the one with that desire?
Ezekiel 18:23; Matthew 12:15-21
Jesus navigates darkness with merciful LOVE and gentle QUIETNESS.
Matthew 12:22-30
A DIVIDED Kingdom cannot stand and our enemy is THE STRONG MAN.
Matthew 12:33-37
Our primary task is to watch and guard the GOODNESS of the TREE and it’s FRUIT.
The Hope of the World pt. 3
December 20, 2015
Big Idea: Our hope awakens when we realize that God is for us
And HE, GOD who sent His Son to die for me - IS FOR ME
Romans 8:31-32; Matthew 19:14
My hope lives because MY GOD IS FOR ME
Jeremiah 29:11
My hope lives because I know God is working IN ME
Romans 8:28; Philippians 2:13; Psalms 66:16
My hope lives because God FORGIVES me
Romans 5:8
My hope lives because my God LOVES me
John 3:16
His story did not end at death; He had victory over death
This gives us ACCESS
This gives us CONFIDENCE
This give us HOPE
The Hope of the World pt. 2
December 13, 2015
Big Idea: We are the carriers of hope, and we need to live that out in a way everyone can see.
Romans 5:1-5
We find hope in our JOURNEY and hope grows in our EXPERIENCES.
We are NOT the hope of the world, but the hope of the world LIVES in us.
Hope isn’t a THING to be held, hope is the BELIEF in a promise.
Hope Awakens - Session 1 - God With Us
December 6, 2015
Big Idea: God with us is the hope of the world and the plan God premeditated before the beginning of time
Emmanuel means GOD WITH US.
Matthew 1:21-23
Isaiah 9:6-7
EMMANUEL - GOD WITH US
Luke 7:18-23
1) God IS with you.
The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Luke 1:28
2) God WAS with you.
But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. Genesis 39:21 NKJV
3) God WILL BE with you.
Romans 8:35, 37-39
Getting Grace Right, 3 “Cheapening Grace”
The Big Idea: Grace is the justification of the sinner, not the justification of sin.
John 8:3-11 John 1:14 Grace is accepting RELATIONSHIP Truth is acknowledging what is REAL Truth without grace is JUDGEMENT Grace without truth is DECEPTION Does grace change my relationship with sin? Romans 6:1-4 Two Critical Truths to Keep in Mind: 1. Grace does not eliminate the law of THE FARM Galatians 6:7-10 2. BELIEF is connected to BEHAVIOR James 2:14-26 Reflection Question: What is the EVIDENCE of my BELIEF?
Getting Grace Right, 2“Extending Grace”
November 22, 2015
The Big Idea: Let him without sin throw the first stone.
John 8:3-11
The Dark Side:
The ACCUSERS
The SPIES
The DEGRADING
The SIN Romans 6:23
The Key Sentence to Guide Our Lives: John 8:7
Our goal: See others through the eyes of GRACE: Romans 8:1
The High Cost of No Grace: Matthew 18:10-25
Getting Grace Right, 1 “A Theological Primer” November 15, 2015
The Big Idea: Your relationship with God is built entirely upon God’s grace.
Theology 101 on Grace - Five Background Issues:
- The NATURE of God
- The LAW of God Romans 6:23
- The Human CONDITION Romans 3:23
- The SACRIFICIAL System
- JESUS Romans 5:7-8
Grace Romans 6:23 Ephesians 2:8-9 John 1:9-18
The only thing grace requires is that you RECEIVE IT
The best way to get the life of your dreams is to partner with God and build it together.
I. MARRIAGE is foundational in God’s design Genesis 2:21-25 ESV II. Marriage Illustrates what’s happening between US and JESUS Ephesians 5:23, 25, 27, 31-32 ESV III. Marriage is the event that kicks off ETERNITY (Revelation 19:1, 4, 6-7 ESV IV. Marriage is to be held in HONOR Hebrews 13:4, NIV
Two different world views of Marriage: 1. The “CREATION” model 2. The “CHOICE” model.
Church community is a gift from God to help us move to action and stand together in times of difficulty and persecution.
Being wholly God’s adds color and fragrance to every aspect of our lives and communicates clearly without a word.
God has you right where He wants you, He is with you, and He has an assignment for you.
Jesus predicted that he would start a movement called, "The Church" and it would change the world.
We all have a tendency to do it but bargaining with God never works because its not necessary.
There's nothing that I can do to wash away my sin. There's only someone I can lean into for this.
Trusting God completely means having faith that He knows what's best for you and has every intention of helping you find it.
We have replaced the word "sin" with the less harsh word of "mistake." It's time to accept the fact that you are a sinner.
"The Bible says" is not an adequate starting point. The starting point is better than the Bible. It's Jesus!
From God's view, Christmas was an all-out military invasion intent on delivering all people from captivity.
During a dark night of the soul, hope is found in the person of your Father God and the certainty of the Story.
God's design is that my choices, thoughts, desires, and behaviors be in perfect harmony, empowered by an unbroken connection with God.