Wednesday Night Services: Recent Episodes
Stephen Hecht
We all have expectations for our lives that have been built with our growing faith as we continually hear the Word of God. Natural obstacles seem to materialize that hinder our journey toward those expectations. We can see financial blessing from the Word, but then the rent or mortgage increases, food and gas prices go up, our hours at work or income takes a dip. Maybe you are building your faith in the area of health and healing, but then the doctor’s report comes, or you just don’t feel right. These can affect your hope for what you see the Word promising you. What is a believer to do?In Nehemiah 10 the remnant of Israel faces something very similar, and in this Midweek service we look at what this is, and how we can deal with it ourselves.
We all have expectations for our lives that have been built with our growing faith as we continually hear the Word of God. Natural obstacles seem to materialize that hinder our journey toward those expectations. We can see financial blessing from the Word, but then the rent or mortgage increases, food and gas prices go up, our hours at work or income takes a dip. Maybe you are building your faith in the area of health and healing, but then the doctor’s report comes, or you just don’t feel right. These can affect your hope for what you see the Word promising you. What is a believer to do?In Nehemiah 10 the remnant of Israel faces something very similar, and in this Midweek service we look at what this is, and how we can deal with it ourselves.
Some things God gives to us through His mercy. Others come through the Covenant we have a believers. But there is a third way. All of these are covered in this wonderful prayer from Nehemiah 9.
Some things God gives to us through His mercy. Others come through the Covenant we have a believers. But there is a third way. All of these are covered in this wonderful prayer from Nehemiah 9.
What is the context of these great words “The Joy of the Lord is our strength?” These words were spoken by Ezra, and Nehemiah records them here in chapter 8:10. When you see the context and perceive the full meaning in its setting, you will realize why standing on these words hasn’t always strengthened you and understand better how to let them do so.
What is the context of these great words “The Joy of the Lord is our strength?” These words were spoken by Ezra, and Nehemiah records them here in chapter 8:10. When you see the context and perceive the full meaning in its setting, you will realize why standing on these words hasn’t always strengthened you and understand better how to let them do so.
As we embark on a new year, what do you want 2024 to look like for you? Are you striving for increased courage, faith, healing, and working towards a promotion? Do you want to be blessed with wisdom, skills, and favor in the new year? In the midweek service this Wednesday, Brother Nicolae will look at Daniel who stood against King Nebuchadnezzar and his evil schemes to take down Daniel. Daniel was an exemplary role model for us in character, influence, commitment and courage - all things we can grow in! We'll use Daniel's example in championing in excellency into our lives for today and into 2024.
As we embark on a new year, what do you want 2024 to look like for you? Are you striving for increased courage, faith, healing, and working towards a promotion? Do you want to be blessed with wisdom, skills, and favor in the new year? In the midweek service this Wednesday, Brother Nicolae will look at Daniel who stood against King Nebuchadnezzar and his evil schemes to take down Daniel. Daniel was an exemplary role model for us in character, influence, commitment and courage - all things we can grow in! We'll use Daniel's example in championing in excellency into our lives for today and into 2024.
This may seem like a boring list of names, but in this 7th chapter of Nehemiah we find several things. First, something very important to God that we all can do. Second, that people maintained their call from God despite a lack of opportunity to operate in that call. Third, reasons why some of the priest lacked proof of their priestly linage AND how that corresponds to us today. And Forth, something missing from this list of people involved in the work that we often include today. There is more, but hopefully this gets you interested.
This may seem like a boring list of names, but in this 7th chapter of Nehemiah we find several things. First, something very important to God that we all can do. Second, that people maintained their call from God despite a lack of opportunity to operate in that call. Third, reasons why some of the priest lacked proof of their priestly linage AND how that corresponds to us today. And Forth, something missing from this list of people involved in the work that we often include today. There is more, but hopefully this gets you interested.
Can your mind impede you from the things that God has for you? Have you struggled with hardships, things not coming to pass, or simply not feeling worthy of the things that God has for you? Faith comes from the heart but Paul tells us to gird up the loins of our mind and to be sober. Tonight, Brother Nicolae will walk through 6 steps in How to “Change your Mind and Overcome Confusion with Wisdom”. We’ll look at examples and scripture to help us Overcome those thoughts of confusion and how to transform them into a Sound Mind.
Continue the series in Nehemiah with chapter 6-7 as Nehemiah leads them to transition from working on the wall and completing it, to maintaining a guarded wall around Jerusalem instead of an open city. We live differently when we are guarding something valuable, whether it be a city or our own spiritual well-being. Many Christians never make this transition, so we will look at what goes on in doing so. There are three ways of guarding things of value whether they be natural or spiritual. We look at all three in our day to day lives, as well as what was done in the Bible.
Continue the series in Nehemiah with chapter 6-7 as Nehemiah leads them to transition from working on the wall and completing it, to maintaining a guarded wall around Jerusalem instead of an open city. We live differently when we are guarding something valuable, whether it be a city or our own spiritual well-being. Many Christians never make this transition, so we will look at what goes on in doing so. There are three ways of guarding things of value whether they be natural or spiritual. We look at all three in our day to day lives, as well as what was done in the Bible.
What do you do when your enemy wants to become your friend. Is it the Christian’s responsibility to accept one who has been against you and the Godly things you stand for, and now instead wants to be on your side? Could we be hindering such a person from repentance if we don’t? You may have even conceded in the past because you felt guilty about rejecting them, or thought God wanted you to give them a chance. Well there’s a Biblical example we can learn from who faced just this exact thing. Not only will we look at what Nehemiah did, but also how God led him to find the truth behind the pretense of being friendly.
What do you do when your enemy wants to become your friend. Is it the Christian’s responsibility to accept one who has been against you and the Godly things you stand for, and now instead wants to be on your side? Could we be hindering such a person from repentance if we don’t? You may have even conceded in the past because you felt guilty about rejecting them, or thought God wanted you to give them a chance. Well there’s a Biblical example we can learn from who faced just this exact thing. Not only will we look at what Nehemiah did, but also how God led him to find the truth behind the pretense of being friendly.
Tonight we look at what can we do with people who push all our buttons? How does God expect us to respond? Is there a way we can respond that will change how they act with us? Here is the review I posted last week. We will spend about half the time looking at what Nehemiah did, and the rest on how we can apply it to our situations.A topic I have been asked a lot about of late is how I can know I’m hearing the voice of God? Stay with me to the end and you will find help on this!
Tonight we look at what can we do with people who push all our buttons? How does God expect us to respond? Is there a way we can respond that will change how they act with us? Here is the review I posted last week. We will spend about half the time looking at what Nehemiah did, and the rest on how we can apply it to our situations.A topic I have been asked a lot about of late is how I can know I’m hearing the voice of God? Stay with me to the end and you will find help on this!
Evil inspired opposition follows a certain pattern in the Bible. If you know this pattern you can anticipate what happens next, and when it happens you won't be as incline to think it is something about you or how you stood for the principle or project from God. The enemy wants to get you to second guess what you did or how you did it, so he can lead you into taking some of the blame for the opposition rising up. If you take some of the blame, guilt or fear can get you to stop doing what you are doing. Knowing the pattern and seeing what comes next before it happens takes the foundation away from the guilt and fear thrown at you, and you will have a much easier time standing up against the opposition. In Nehemiah 4 we see this pattern.
Evil inspired opposition follows a certain pattern in the Bible. If you know this pattern you can anticipate what happens next, and when it happens you won't be as incline to think it is something about you or how you stood for the principle or project from God. The enemy wants to get you to second guess what you did or how you did it, so he can lead you into taking some of the blame for the opposition rising up. If you take some of the blame, guilt or fear can get you to stop doing what you are doing. Knowing the pattern and seeing what comes next before it happens takes the foundation away from the guilt and fear thrown at you, and you will have a much easier time standing up against the opposition. In Nehemiah 4 we see this pattern.
The building of the wall begins. The details can help us understand truths regarding our role in the Church.
The building of the wall begins. The details can help us understand truths regarding our role in the Church.
Love for the things of God and His call on your life will get you involved, but faith that comes from what's in you will get you though. Nehemiah has a love for the things of God and for God's call on his life, but he starts out imitating what others did in faith. He will grow out of this and get to faith that's on the inside, but perhaps you can relate to how Nehemiah got started pursuing the call of God.
Love for the things of God and His call on your life will get you involved, but faith that comes from what's in you will get you though. Nehemiah has a love for the things of God and for God's call on his life, but he starts out imitating what others did in faith. He will grow out of this and get to faith that's on the inside, but perhaps you can relate to how Nehemiah got started pursuing the call of God.
What will the world be like in the Millennial reign? Zechariah (along with Revelation 20) give us the best look into this upcoming kingdom. See how what you think you know about this kingdom lines up with what scriptures tell us to expect. This is our final session on Zechariah.
What will the world be like in the Millennial reign? Zechariah (along with Revelation 20) give us the best look into this upcoming kingdom. See how what you think you know about this kingdom lines up with what scriptures tell us to expect. This is our final session on Zechariah.
What’s the difference between false prophecy and wrongly interpreted prophecy? Both can be very damaging and both were to the people of Israel. The first are words not given by God and the second are words God spoke, but people understood or applied them differently than God intended. Israel greatly misinterpreted this prophecy and it hurt them. Since we have spent time looking at how to detect false prophecy in this study, we will look mostly at how to know misinterpreted prophecy in this one.
What’s the difference between false prophecy and wrongly interpreted prophecy? Both can be very damaging and both were to the people of Israel. The first are words not given by God and the second are words God spoke, but people understood or applied them differently than God intended. Israel greatly misinterpreted this prophecy and it hurt them. Since we have spent time looking at how to detect false prophecy in this study, we will look mostly at how to know misinterpreted prophecy in this one.
It seems out of place for this prophecy to foresee the coming destruction of Jerusalem. After their repentance and God's promises of renewal, why does it jump to this? In looking for the answer we will also see why all the nations of the world rise up to come against Israel, and it seems to be more than just hatred of them.
It seems out of place for this prophecy to foresee the coming destruction of Jerusalem. After their repentance and God's promises of renewal, why does it jump to this? In looking for the answer we will also see why all the nations of the world rise up to come against Israel, and it seems to be more than just hatred of them.
The repentant Jewish people have a fountain of cleansing made available to them, and God cleanses them from their idolatry, false prophecy, and the spirits behind them. God says that in that day Israel will not have any tolerance of false words or the people that give them.
In our day people seem very tolerant of false words, in fact have no trouble welcoming them and even in the churches. So what makes people desire to hear or give a false word over a true one?
The repentant Jewish people have a fountain of cleansing made available to them, and God cleanses them from their idolatry, false prophecy, and the spirits behind them. God says that in that day Israel will not have any tolerance of false words or the people that give them.
In our day people seem very tolerant of false words, in fact have no trouble welcoming them and even in the churches. So what makes people desire to hear or give a false word over a true one?
What do all the promises of restoring and preserving Israel against all their enemies have to do with us today? Is it just so we know what will be going on with the nation of Israel or is there more to it? This 12th chapter of Zechariah is filled with the future of Israel. As we look at it we also want to see how it helps us in our Christian life.
What do all the promises of restoring and preserving Israel against all their enemies have to do with us today? Is it just so we know what will be going on with the nation of Israel or is there more to it? This 12th chapter of Zechariah is filled with the future of Israel. As we look at it we also want to see how it helps us in our Christian life.
How can we determine that a word seemingly so very contrary to others we have heard is or is not from God? After some very positive words from the Lord given to Zechariah to encourage the returnees who came back to Judah and Jerusalem, here comes this word prophesying a coming destruction. How would you take this shift if you were on of the Jews in Jerusalem hearing this? We also see the context for the prophetic word about Judas receiving 30 pieces of silver to betray Jesus.
How can we determine that a word seemingly so very contrary to others we have heard is or is not from God? After some very positive words from the Lord given to Zechariah to encourage the returnees who came back to Judah and Jerusalem, here comes this word prophesying a coming destruction. How would you take this shift if you were on of the Jews in Jerusalem hearing this? We also see the context for the prophetic word about Judas receiving 30 pieces of silver to betray Jesus.
If God’s promises are for a future time and it is possible I may not even be around to see them, what good are they to me now? How does future glory help me out of my present gloom?
If God’s promises are for a future time and it is possible I may not even be around to see them, what good are they to me now? How does future glory help me out of my present gloom?
A hidden prophecy can be found in the first 8 verses of Zechariah 9. Verses 1-8 seem to predict something that was not likely able to be know until the prophecy was fulfilled. After that verses 9-10 bring the well known prophecy of Messiah coming into Jerusalem riding on a donkey. The prophecy finishes the chapter describing how God will fight for them. The order of this chapter seems very interesting to me and in the end I look to show you a purpose in it.
A hidden prophecy can be found in the first 8 verses of Zechariah 9. Verses 1-8 seem to predict something that was not likely able to be know until the prophecy was fulfilled. After that verses 9-10 bring the well known prophecy of Messiah coming into Jerusalem riding on a donkey. The prophecy finishes the chapter describing how God will fight for them. The order of this chapter seems very interesting to me and in the end I look to show you a purpose in it.
Did God make things more difficult for those who returned from Babylon then it otherwise would have been? That’s a puzzling question raised by Zechariah 8:10-11. Is God saying I did make it difficult for them, but now I won’t do that for you? If God did then why, and if He didn’t, what is He saying?
Here is another question raised. Have you ever been discouraged by a prophetic word that didn’t come to pass? Ever wanted to quit on it? There are people in that very situation there and the prophet speaks God’s word to them.
Did God make things more difficult for those who returned from Babylon then it otherwise would have been? That’s a puzzling question raised by Zechariah 8:10-11. Is God saying I did make it difficult for them, but now I won’t do that for you? If God did then why, and if He didn’t, what is He saying?
Here is another question raised. Have you ever been discouraged by a prophetic word that didn’t come to pass? Ever wanted to quit on it? There are people in that very situation there and the prophet speaks God’s word to them.
Do you have memorials in your life to remember a past loss, event, or failure, or have you developed a practice that became a habit you thought might help you grow spiritually? There is no command in the word to do such things, but it’s been a part of your life for so long that to cut it out now would seem to be wrong. Maybe God might be disappointed in you, or even a loved one that past away? This guilt can keep us maintaining a ritual or state of mind that maybe has become harmful to our mental well being.
This is the basis of a question that the returnees in Jerusalem asked of God about some of the fasts they picked up. Should we continue these fasts? Do we continue to remember the past failures so we don’t fall into them again? Do we remember the sadness of past events so as not to forget? Well God sent a message back and we look at that answer in Zechariah 7.
Do you have memorials in your life to remember a past loss, event, or failure, or have you developed a practice that became a habit you thought might help you grow spiritually? There is no command in the word to do such things, but it’s been a part of your life for so long that to cut it out now would seem to be wrong. Maybe God might be disappointed in you, or even a loved one that past away? This guilt can keep us maintaining a ritual or state of mind that maybe has become harmful to our mental well being.
This is the basis of a question that the returnees in Jerusalem asked of God about some of the fasts they picked up. Should we continue these fasts? Do we continue to remember the past failures so we don’t fall into them again? Do we remember the sadness of past events so as not to forget? Well God sent a message back and we look at that answer in Zechariah 7.
Are the prophesies regarding Jesus’ coming as king and ruler dependent on our obedience in order to come about? Are there things we must do before He comes or is it does it occur because it is the will of God? The word given to Zechariah to finish chapter 6 concerning the coming Messiah ends with “And this shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” In this midweek service we explore this vision, it’s interpretation, and what this last part means.
Are the prophesies regarding Jesus’ coming as king and ruler dependent on our obedience in order to come about? Are there things we must do before He comes or is it does it occur because it is the will of God? The word given to Zechariah to finish chapter 6 concerning the coming Messiah ends with “And this shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” In this midweek service we explore this vision, it’s interpretation, and what this last part means.
We all look at this world and the evil things that go on. Some wonder where is God and why does He allow these things to happen? As we look at Zechariah 6 I think we find a great clue!
We all look at this world and the evil things that go on. Some wonder where is God and why does He allow these things to happen? As we look at Zechariah 6 I think we find a great clue!
What does the flying scroll and the woman in the basket mean? Is this for sometime in the future or was it just for Zechariah's day?
What does the flying scroll and the woman in the basket mean? Is this for sometime in the future or was it just for Zechariah's day?
“Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit.” Many love this verse from Zechariah 4:6, but when you understand it in it’s context, you may understand better how to apply this to your own life. This is a word God gave to Zechariah to the people of that day, but it is written in scripture because it has application to us.
“Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit.” Many love this verse from Zechariah 4:6, but when you understand it in it’s context, you may understand better how to apply this to your own life. This is a word God gave to Zechariah to the people of that day, but it is written in scripture because it has application to us.
Why does God measure things? Looking at scripture I came up with two purposes He has for measuring. Then I thought about our lives: do we have a similar practice of measuring spiritual things? I saw some very glaring differences in our purposes.
Why does God measure things? Looking at scripture I came up with two purposes He has for measuring. Then I thought about our lives: do we have a similar practice of measuring spiritual things? I saw some very glaring differences in our purposes.
Why did God get mad at the nations? In this first vision of Zechariah we see that angels had been sent out to observe the world and they came back saying everything is at peace. This made God mad, so why is He mad at the nations for their state of peace? We learn some interesting things about how God looks at the world and His people in this vision of the horses.
Why did God get mad at the nations? In this first vision of Zechariah we see that angels had been sent out to observe the world and they came back saying everything is at peace. This made God mad, so why is He mad at the nations for their state of peace? We learn some interesting things about how God looks at the world and His people in this vision of the horses.
What made the people of Judah who built the 2nd temple so receptive to the word of God? They responded 1st to the call or word from God in their spirit and made the trip to leave Babylon. Then they received the word from God’s prophets and restarted the work God had called them do. And finally they responded when the word of God was taught and showed them the error of their ways. As we finish the book of Ezra we want to discover the qualities needed to be as receptive as they were to what God revealed to their spirit, spoke to their ears, and was written for their eyes.
What made the people of Judah who built the 2nd temple so receptive to the word of God? They responded 1st to the call or word from God in their spirit and made the trip to leave Babylon. Then they received the word from God’s prophets and restarted the work God had called them do. And finally they responded when the word of God was taught and showed them the error of their ways. As we finish the book of Ezra we want to discover the qualities needed to be as receptive as they were to what God revealed to their spirit, spoke to their ears, and was written for their eyes.
What did Jesus mean when He said "It is finished" right before His death on the cross? In this Good Friday service, we look at this question and why the answer matters to your Christian walk.
What did Jesus mean when He said "It is finished" right before His death on the cross? In this Good Friday service, we look at this question and why the answer matters to your Christian walk.
How does a society dedicated to serving the Lord become corrupted? In our own country 60 years ago God was a much bigger part of our society and our culture was shaped by our love for and obedience to God. Things that would shock our society then are hardly a blip now. How did we get to where we are now? In Ezra 9 we see a very similar occurrence, as the social norms and customs of the Jews who returned have strayed from the way God commanded them to live when He spoke to Moses. Ezra has apparently seen more Biblical behavior in Babylon then he does here in Jerusalem. How did this happen in the 60 years since the Temple was completed? There were no rebukes of lifestyle issues spoken by the prophets that we have recorded, so this change would seem to have occurred in the years following the Temple’s completion.
How does a society dedicated to serving the Lord become corrupted? In our own country 60 years ago God was a much bigger part of our society and our culture was shaped by our love for and obedience to God. Things that would shock our society then are hardly a blip now. How did we get to where we are now? In Ezra 9 we see a very similar occurrence, as the social norms and customs of the Jews who returned have strayed from the way God commanded them to live when He spoke to Moses. Ezra has apparently seen more Biblical behavior in Babylon then he does here in Jerusalem. How did this happen in the 60 years since the Temple was completed? There were no rebukes of lifestyle issues spoken by the prophets that we have recorded, so this change would seem to have occurred in the years following the Temple’s completion.
Most of us are aware of how what we say can produce good or bad in our life. Here we see that Ezra spoke good about His God but it created a very interesting dilemma for him.
Most of us are aware of how what we say can produce good or bad in our life. Here we see that Ezra spoke good about His God but it created a very interesting dilemma for him.
What does it take for you to see the hand of the Lord upon you? It is easy to see God’s helping hand when things are going well and mostly as you expect, but what do you see when things are difficult, you are repeatedly hit with the unexpected, or it seems like you are trudging through spiritual mud? Can you still see the hand of God, or does it appear to have left you? We look at what it takes to be able to see the hand of God on your life and call in the difficult times, as we take on Ezra 7.
What does it take for you to see the hand of the Lord upon you? It is easy to see God’s helping hand when things are going well and mostly as you expect, but what do you see when things are difficult, you are repeatedly hit with the unexpected, or it seems like you are trudging through spiritual mud? Can you still see the hand of God, or does it appear to have left you? We look at what it takes to be able to see the hand of God on your life and call in the difficult times, as we take on Ezra 7.
There were two groups of people that opposed Jesus, in the Sadducees and the Pharisees, and we will be looking at how these groups began in this week's midweek service. There was also a third group not mentioned in the Bible as they were not involved in any direct confrontation with Jesus. It is amazing how what was in the past continues in the present.
There were two groups of people that opposed Jesus, in the Sadducees and the Pharisees, and we will be looking at how these groups began in this week's midweek service. There was also a third group not mentioned in the Bible as they were not involved in any direct confrontation with Jesus. It is amazing how what was in the past continues in the present.
What do you expect should happen when a prophet is given a message from the Lord to not only tell you what the will of God is, but that He wants you to do it? Would you expect things to be easier from then on or harder? Smooth sailing or more opposition? We may say we should expect more opposition, but in practice Christians who receive increased opposition feel and speak things like “the word must not have been from God,” “the devil must be real mad at what I’m doing,” or even “people need to line up with what God told me.” How have you responded in the past? How should we respond and what can we learn from these events in the lives of those who resumed building the Temple, after Haggai gives them such great words from God?" In this chapter we can learn a very important lesson in dealing with those who oppose us, and how we can make the situation better.Also, what does it mean that "The eye of their God was on the elders..."? Is the same eye on you and what impact should it have on your life?
What do you expect should happen when a prophet is given a message from the Lord to not only tell you what the will of God is, but that He wants you to do it? Would you expect things to be easier from then on or harder? Smooth sailing or more opposition? We may say we should expect more opposition, but in practice Christians who receive increased opposition feel and speak things like “the word must not have been from God,” “the devil must be real mad at what I’m doing,” or even “people need to line up with what God told me.” How have you responded in the past? How should we respond and what can we learn from these events in the lives of those who resumed building the Temple, after Haggai gives them such great words from God?" In this chapter we can learn a very important lesson in dealing with those who oppose us, and how we can make the situation better.Also, what does it mean that "The eye of their God was on the elders..."? Is the same eye on you and what impact should it have on your life?
What gets God excited? We all get excited about things to come or things that have occurred for different reasons, but what are the reasons that cause God to anticipate the good He sees coming? In Haggai Chapter 2 we get a glimpse of what that is, and if we are endeavoring to be more like Him then we should become excited on the things that make our God anticipate somethings arrival.
What gets God excited? We all get excited about things to come or things that have occurred for different reasons, but what are the reasons that cause God to anticipate the good He sees coming? In Haggai Chapter 2 we get a glimpse of what that is, and if we are endeavoring to be more like Him then we should become excited on the things that make our God anticipate somethings arrival.
How does God look upon us when we become discouraged in doing what God asked of us or perhaps even distracted from it? The exiles who returned to Judea have been discouraged, and may have let that turn into becoming distracted from the task of rebuilding the temple of God. How does God respond? What is God’s view of them at this time? As we begin Ezra 5 we see a prophet who was sent to them. The messages he is given make it into a book we know as Haggai. In this weeks midweek service we take a look at these messages Haggai has for them, beginning with the first two tonight. What we learn from these messages to the people of Judea are intended to help us when we are facing the same thing. Have you been discouraged in your God given purpose? Have you put off doing what God told you to do? Let's look at the messages of Haggai together and see what we can use to help in what we need to overcome.
How does God look upon us when we become discouraged in doing what God asked of us or perhaps even distracted from it? The exiles who returned to Judea have been discouraged, and may have let that turn into becoming distracted from the task of rebuilding the temple of God. How does God respond? What is God’s view of them at this time? As we begin Ezra 5 we see a prophet who was sent to them. The messages he is given make it into a book we know as Haggai. In this weeks midweek service we take a look at these messages Haggai has for them, beginning with the first two tonight. What we learn from these messages to the people of Judea are intended to help us when we are facing the same thing. Have you been discouraged in your God given purpose? Have you put off doing what God told you to do? Let's look at the messages of Haggai together and see what we can use to help in what we need to overcome.
What kind of resistance have you had in life? Resistance in doing what is good and right? Resistance in staying true to your calling and gifts? What about resisting the pull to stray from sound doctrine, as worldly pressure builds or we are pushed to go with the popular doctrine of the day? In Ezra 4 there were three kinds of resistance the returning exiles faced in doing what God had them to do. These same three are still at work today, so we will look at what they did to stay with the work they were called to do.
What kind of resistance have you had in life? Resistance in doing what is good and right? Resistance in staying true to your calling and gifts? What about resisting the pull to stray from sound doctrine, as worldly pressure builds or we are pushed to go with the popular doctrine of the day? In Ezra 4 there were three kinds of resistance the returning exiles faced in doing what God had them to do. These same three are still at work today, so we will look at what they did to stay with the work they were called to do.
Who was the destroyer that killed the firstborn in the first Passover (Exodus 12)? As I have listened to teachers and preachers teach on Israel’s exodus from Egypt and the many things surrounding the sprinkling of the blood on the door posts to protect the home from the destroyer, I am amazed at how many things are read into the story that are just not there. If we want to fully grasp the purpose God has for an event like Passover, we must first understand what the Bible teaches actually occurred. It has been a long time since we looked closely at Exodus 12 and the first Passover. Since the desire is always to answer the questions sent to me as accurately as possible, tonight we will go back to the account in Exodus so we can differentiate truth from fiction.
Who was the destroyer that killed the firstborn in the first Passover (Exodus 12)? As I have listened to teachers and preachers teach on Israel’s exodus from Egypt and the many things surrounding the sprinkling of the blood on the door posts to protect the home from the destroyer, I am amazed at how many things are read into the story that are just not there. If we want to fully grasp the purpose God has for an event like Passover, we must first understand what the Bible teaches actually occurred. It has been a long time since we looked closely at Exodus 12 and the first Passover. Since the desire is always to answer the questions sent to me as accurately as possible, tonight we will go back to the account in Exodus so we can differentiate truth from fiction.
In this service we take on the 3 fall feast of Israel. They are all unfulfilled and we will look into how they will be fulfilled and what they point to.
In this service we take on the 3 fall feast of Israel. They are all unfulfilled and we will look into how they will be fulfilled and what they point to.
What is the significance of the 7 feasts of Israel and what does each speak to prophetically? The 4 spring feasts have been fulfilled, but the 3 fall feasts are not. As the fulfilled feasts give us details on what did occur at the crucifixion, so too the unfulfilled feasts will give us insight on what is yet to come. It has been a long time since we really looked into the feasts of Israel, and as we take on Ezra 3 we see the feasts are reinstated. We will take a close look at these feast, beginning with the 4 fulfilled Spring feasts tonight, and the 3 unfulfilled Fall feasts next week.
What is the significance of the 7 feasts of Israel and what does each speak to prophetically? The 4 spring feasts have been fulfilled, but the 3 fall feasts are not. As the fulfilled feasts give us details on what did occur at the crucifixion, so too the unfulfilled feasts will give us insight on what is yet to come. It has been a long time since we really looked into the feasts of Israel, and as we take on Ezra 3 we see the feasts are reinstated. We will take a close look at these feast, beginning with the 4 fulfilled Spring feasts tonight, and the 3 unfulfilled Fall feasts next week.
Why does the Bible include genealogies? It’s not all that interesting to just read the names of people and not know their stories, so why not just skip over them? In Ezra chapter 2 we have quite a list of the people who made the trip to return to Judah and begin the rebuilding process. Is there something we can learn from this long list of names? I think this is the first time I’ve ever used this text for any teaching before, but I’ve seen some things that can be a real help in our spiritual walk.
Why does the Bible include genealogies? It’s not all that interesting to just read the names of people and not know their stories, so why not just skip over them? In Ezra chapter 2 we have quite a list of the people who made the trip to return to Judah and begin the rebuilding process. Is there something we can learn from this long list of names? I think this is the first time I’ve ever used this text for any teaching before, but I’ve seen some things that can be a real help in our spiritual walk.
Redemption is instantaneous but restoration is a process. In spending time figuring out the theme for this new series that begins in the book of Ezra, Judah is being restored into the land that God had given them. There was a decree that set everything in motion in an instant, but that was only the beginning of the process of restoring them to the land, and the land as well. When we expect instant restoration, we can get discouraged when it is taking some time. What is restoration for the New Testament believer, when is it needed, and how do we come into it? Tonight we take on a few topics from Chapter 1, like how was God able to use a heathen king to accomplish His will? What is meant by “all whose spirits God had moved, arose to go up and build the house of the LORD?” Did God not want all the Jewish people to go home? Why would some people not feel led to leave a land of idolatry to return to their homeland? There is more we will get into tonight and I hope you can join in as we begin the study of Ezra.
Redemption is instantaneous but restoration is a process. In spending time figuring out the theme for this new series that begins in the book of Ezra, Judah is being restored into the land that God had given them. There was a decree that set everything in motion in an instant, but that was only the beginning of the process of restoring them to the land, and the land as well. When we expect instant restoration, we can get discouraged when it is taking some time. What is restoration for the New Testament believer, when is it needed, and how do we come into it? Tonight we take on a few topics from Chapter 1, like how was God able to use a heathen king to accomplish His will? What is meant by “all whose spirits God had moved, arose to go up and build the house of the LORD?” Did God not want all the Jewish people to go home? Why would some people not feel led to leave a land of idolatry to return to their homeland? There is more we will get into tonight and I hope you can join in as we begin the study of Ezra.
Wrapping up the series on Ephesians we look at Paul's request of prayer for "utterance" and "boldness." What does "utterance" mean, and how does what Paul is facing affect his prayer request? We know Paul's request is a very scriptural one, but how many times have we been asked to pray for things we don't see as founded in scripture? What should a Christian do?
Wrapping up the series on Ephesians we look at Paul's request of prayer for "utterance" and "boldness." What does "utterance" mean, and how does what Paul is facing affect his prayer request? We know Paul's request is a very scriptural one, but how many times have we been asked to pray for things we don't see as founded in scripture? What should a Christian do?
How did the armor of God work for the Apostle Paul himself? We have gone through his teaching, now lets see how it was at work in Paul's life and ministry. Last week we looked at how Joshua (an Old Testament saint) walked in the whole armor of God in his calling to lead Israel, so this Wednesday we switch to the New Testament. We look at the life of Paul through the book of Acts to see the armor in use in his life.
How did the armor of God work for the Apostle Paul himself? We have gone through his teaching, now lets see how it was at work in Paul's life and ministry. Last week we looked at how Joshua (an Old Testament saint) walked in the whole armor of God in his calling to lead Israel, so this Wednesday we switch to the New Testament. We look at the life of Paul through the book of Acts to see the armor in use in his life.
After having examined each of the pieces of our spiritual armor as Paul described, we look to see the whole armor of God in action, starting with Joshua as he takes on the God given spiritual purpose of conquering the promised land for Israel.
After having examined each of the pieces of our spiritual armor as Paul described, we look to see the whole armor of God in action, starting with Joshua as he takes on the God given spiritual purpose of conquering the promised land for Israel.
As we continue to look at how to pray when we are in difficult situations, we examine two other people who interacted with Jesus to help them with the hard time they were in. We learn 4 ways to get (or give) help when people encounter difficult times in their lives.
As we continue to look at how to pray when we are in difficult situations, we examine two other people who interacted with Jesus to help them with the hard time they were in. We learn 4 ways to get (or give) help when people encounter difficult times in their lives.
Spiritual warfare can certainly make our lives challenging, but sometimes we are just involved in a difficult time. Do prayers that we make during such differ in any way to the ones we have seen made where spiritual warfare was engaged? In tomorrow’s Wednesday night service we will be looking at two examples in the Bible of people who went through a difficult time, but there seems to be no evidence of spiritual warfare. How was prayer involved and what can we learn from their difficult times?
In some of these passages we will be studying over the next few weeks, we have no record of any prayer. I think you will see the evidence of it as we get through them. I can’t say I ever studied these particular narratives looking for prayers made, but this time through I did.
Spiritual warfare can certainly make our lives challenging, but sometimes we are just involved in a difficult time. Do prayers that we make during such differ in any way to the ones we have seen made where spiritual warfare was engaged? In tomorrow’s Wednesday night service we will be looking at two examples in the Bible of people who went through a difficult time, but there seems to be no evidence of spiritual warfare. How was prayer involved and what can we learn from their difficult times?
In some of these passages we will be studying over the next few weeks, we have no record of any prayer. I think you will see the evidence of it as we get through them. I can’t say I ever studied these particular narratives looking for prayers made, but this time through I did.
What is the difference between a spiritual battle and a difficult time? We also look at three different spiritual battles and the prayers made in the battle. There is a pattern of 4 things we can see in each prayer. These are 4 aspects of this kind of prayer that should be in our own prayers as we encounter spiritual warfare.
What is the difference between a spiritual battle and a difficult time? We also look at three different spiritual battles and the prayers made in the battle. There is a pattern of 4 things we can see in each prayer. These are 4 aspects of this kind of prayer that should be in our own prayers as we encounter spiritual warfare.
What is spiritual warfare prayer? Paul brings “all prayer and supplication” into the teaching on the believer's armor, but what does he have in mind here? What is the “all prayer and supplication” with regard to spiritual warfare, since that is Paul’s topic.
Not all prayer is used in warfare. Some grow us spiritually like prayers of worship, thanksgiving, submission, and are not so much in the spiritual battle realm. I do not remember going in this direction before, but as I study and find examples, I can see the benefits. Many have done things in the past, calling it prayer warfare, but usually there is no foundation in scripture and seem to just be flesh trying to do spiritual things. We look at two examples of prayer (one before and one after a spiritual battle) too understand the kind of prayer involved.
What is spiritual warfare prayer? Paul brings “all prayer and supplication” into the teaching on the believer's armor, but what does he have in mind here? What is the “all prayer and supplication” with regard to spiritual warfare, since that is Paul’s topic.
Not all prayer is used in warfare. Some grow us spiritually like prayers of worship, thanksgiving, submission, and are not so much in the spiritual battle realm. I do not remember going in this direction before, but as I study and find examples, I can see the benefits. Many have done things in the past, calling it prayer warfare, but usually there is no foundation in scripture and seem to just be flesh trying to do spiritual things. We look at two examples of prayer (one before and one after a spiritual battle) too understand the kind of prayer involved.
There are 6 tactics I see that the enemy uses to keep us from turning what God has spoken, or will speak to us, into a sword of the Spirit. We took on the first five in the previous weeks and here we take on the last one.
This one is very drastic, but amazing how quickly believers in the Bible see this rapidly unfold in their lives. We will see what it is, where it occurred, how it materialized in their lives (and potentially even ours,) and how to keep it from affecting your sword.
There are 6 tactics I see that the enemy uses to keep us from turning what God has spoken, or will speak to us, into a sword of the Spirit. We took on the first five in the previous weeks and here we take on the last one.
This one is very drastic, but amazing how quickly believers in the Bible see this rapidly unfold in their lives. We will see what it is, where it occurred, how it materialized in their lives (and potentially even ours,) and how to keep it from affecting your sword.
With all the prophetic words spoken about the end times, do you get discouraged about what’s ahead? How should we view our time as a part of the last days church? We may know that God can cause His people to flourish in dire times, but it can sure help to see how God has done it before! There was a time when terrible things were prophesied and came about, but what God did to help those who were His was astonishing!
There are six things that I have seen in the Bible that the enemy uses to neutralize this weapon, and these are things that Christians do pretty regularly today. No matter how much teaching you receive on the power of your words, if you don’t understand and remove these things from your life, your sword will not be useful in battle.
With all the prophetic words spoken about the end times, do you get discouraged about what’s ahead? How should we view our time as a part of the last days church? We may know that God can cause His people to flourish in dire times, but it can sure help to see how God has done it before! There was a time when terrible things were prophesied and came about, but what God did to help those who were His was astonishing!
There are six things that I have seen in the Bible that the enemy uses to neutralize this weapon, and these are things that Christians do pretty regularly today. No matter how much teaching you receive on the power of your words, if you don’t understand and remove these things from your life, your sword will not be useful in battle.
There are 6 tactics I see that the enemy uses to keep us from turning what God has spoken to us into a sword of the Spirit. We take on 3 of those tonight and the next three the following Wednesday. After that we look at how to combat these tactics and turn what God has revealed or spoken to us into a sword.
There are 6 tactics I see that the enemy uses to keep us from turning what God has spoken to us into a sword of the Spirit. We take on 3 of those tonight and the next three the following Wednesday. After that we look at how to combat these tactics and turn what God has revealed or spoken to us into a sword.
Is speaking the word of God always the sword of the Spirit? Why does it seem that sometimes are more effective than others? Can we tell what Paul has in mind as the sword of the Spirit and how has it been used in the scripture. As I look at the examples of its use in the Bible and compare it to how people say they use it now, I can see why it’s lacking it’s effectiveness.
We will start out this service with a short review of each piece covered so far to fully understand its uniqueness and place in our spiritual battle.
Is speaking the word of God always the sword of the Spirit? Why does it seem that sometimes are more effective than others? Can we tell what Paul has in mind as the sword of the Spirit and how has it been used in the scripture. As I look at the examples of its use in the Bible and compare it to how people say they use it now, I can see why it’s lacking it’s effectiveness.
We will start out this service with a short review of each piece covered so far to fully understand its uniqueness and place in our spiritual battle.
The helmet of salvation covers our head and that leads many to see it as a guard for our mind. That would seem to replicate some of the uses of the other pieces of our armor, especially the shield of faith quenching the fiery darts.
I do believe that each piece of armor in Paul’s God given understanding has a unique operation in the field of battle as we make our stand, so what is it and how was it used as those who are our examples wrestled against principalities and powers?
The helmet of salvation covers our head and that leads many to see it as a guard for our mind. That would seem to replicate some of the uses of the other pieces of our armor, especially the shield of faith quenching the fiery darts.
I do believe that each piece of armor in Paul’s God given understanding has a unique operation in the field of battle as we make our stand, so what is it and how was it used as those who are our examples wrestled against principalities and powers?
What is the shield of faith and the fiery darts it extinguishes? How and by whom was this spiritual armor used in the word of God? If we see how others used it, we can better understand how we are to make our stand with it.
What does Paul mean when he starts out say "Above all taking the shield of faith..." Is this the most important piece of our armor? Even more than the belt of truth?
What is the shield of faith and the fiery darts it extinguishes? How and by whom was this spiritual armor used in the word of God? If we see how others used it, we can better understand how we are to make our stand with it.
What does Paul mean when he starts out say "Above all taking the shield of faith..." Is this the most important piece of our armor? Even more than the belt of truth?
What are the shoes of peace in the scope of the armor of God, and how can we see this piece used in the Bible? I've heard teaching in the past and even went over some current teachings on them, but those seem to put them as a duplicate in purpose to either the breastplate of righteousness, or the shield of faith. That never sat well with me, as each piece should have its unique operation in our spiritual battles.
What are the shoes of peace in the scope of the armor of God, and how can we see this piece used in the Bible? I've heard teaching in the past and even went over some current teachings on them, but those seem to put them as a duplicate in purpose to either the breastplate of righteousness, or the shield of faith. That never sat well with me, as each piece should have its unique operation in our spiritual battles.
How do we take the breastplate of righteousness into our spiritual battles? It's not good enough to know what a breastplate is and what righteousness is, we also must know how it is used (or unused) in battle. To do this we are going to look at several places where it was in place to protect, or defeat came because it was not in place.
How do we take the breastplate of righteousness into our spiritual battles? It's not good enough to know what a breastplate is and what righteousness is, we also must know how it is used (or unused) in battle. To do this we are going to look at several places where it was in place to protect, or defeat came because it was not in place.
As you fight the spiritual battles in your life, are the pieces of the armor in your eyes just swords and shields, or can you see them as God intended in the fight against the forces against us? If you don't get past the nature picture Paul gives to our armor, how will you use them in the supernatural warfare we combat?
In this Midweek service we begin to look at each piece to not only see what it is, but how it was used (or not used) in spiritual conflict. To do this we will go to the biblical accounts of spiritual battles, successful and unsuccessful, and see how they were deployed, or how the enemy neutralized them. In this service we look at the first in Paul's list - The belt of truth.
As you fight the spiritual battles in your life, are the pieces of the armor in your eyes just swords and shields, or can you see them as God intended in the fight against the forces against us? If you don't get past the nature picture Paul gives to our armor, how will you use them in the supernatural warfare we combat?
In this Midweek service we begin to look at each piece to not only see what it is, but how it was used (or not used) in spiritual conflict. To do this we will go to the biblical accounts of spiritual battles, successful and unsuccessful, and see how they were deployed, or how the enemy neutralized them. In this service we look at the first in Paul's list - The belt of truth.
How do you know that you have done all you need to do in the area of spiritual warfare? Paul says “having done all, to stand” in Ephesians 6:13 and this is our focus tonight. To understand it we will look at four main words... Take up, withstand, having done, and the word stand. The whole verse reads “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” There is more in the rest of the words too, and we will look at the whole verse, as well as what came before, so we can know what kind of stand is being called for here? Is this a stand before the battle, in the battle, or after the battle? Is this a stand we take when we have done all we know to do and the victory isn’t our yet?
How do you know that you have done all you need to do in the area of spiritual warfare? Paul says “having done all, to stand” in Ephesians 6:13 and this is our focus tonight. To understand it we will look at four main words... Take up, withstand, having done, and the word stand. The whole verse reads “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” There is more in the rest of the words too, and we will look at the whole verse, as well as what came before, so we can know what kind of stand is being called for here? Is this a stand before the battle, in the battle, or after the battle? Is this a stand we take when we have done all we know to do and the victory isn’t our yet?
Many people understand spiritual warfare as us coming against principalities and powers, but if so, when did this happen to give us a demonstration? If I can’t find examples of what I think takes place, then maybe I come to a wrong understand, and if I understand wrong, then my battles won’t be what they should be. Tonight, we will spend most of our time understanding this word "against" by looking at what words were not used, so we can better understand the word used and the message that gives us for spiritual warfare. It will all come together and you will see a better flow in Ephesians 6:10-13. After that, we will look at where this kind of spiritual warfare took place in the word of God.
Many people understand spiritual warfare as us coming against principalities and powers, but if so, when did this happen to give us a demonstration? If I can’t find examples of what I think takes place, then maybe I come to a wrong understand, and if I understand wrong, then my battles won’t be what they should be. Tonight, we will spend most of our time understanding this word "against" by looking at what words were not used, so we can better understand the word used and the message that gives us for spiritual warfare. It will all come together and you will see a better flow in Ephesians 6:10-13. After that, we will look at where this kind of spiritual warfare took place in the word of God.
Why does Paul start off telling us what we don’t fight against instead of what we do fight? Is Paul just telling us that when we fight it’s not a flesh and blood battle so just forget about flesh and blood? How many of you can describe some battles that were very much in the flesh or a battle with yours or others natural side? What does it mean to wrestle flesh and blood?
We won’t get very far in the chapter in this one, spending all our time in Ephesians 6:12, but I want us (myself included) to fully understand what the battle is, so I looked in the Word of God for examples of these kind of battles, because nothing helps us to understand a spiritual truth better than to see it demonstrated to us.
Why does Paul start off telling us what we don’t fight against instead of what we do fight? Is Paul just telling us that when we fight it’s not a flesh and blood battle so just forget about flesh and blood? How many of you can describe some battles that were very much in the flesh or a battle with yours or others natural side? What does it mean to wrestle flesh and blood?
We won’t get very far in the chapter in this one, spending all our time in Ephesians 6:12, but I want us (myself included) to fully understand what the battle is, so I looked in the Word of God for examples of these kind of battles, because nothing helps us to understand a spiritual truth better than to see it demonstrated to us.
Paul's introduction to the armor of God begins his final section and by his own wording, the most important of all the things he has to teach. If everything you know about the word of God doesn’t help you defeat the enemy in battle, what God is what you know? In this lesson from Ephesians 6:10-11, we look to understand why what comes next is so very important.
Paul's introduction to the armor of God begins his final section and by his own wording, the most important of all the things he has to teach. If everything you know about the word of God doesn’t help you defeat the enemy in battle, what God is what you know? In this lesson from Ephesians 6:10-11, we look to understand why what comes next is so very important.
What is a bondservant? We take a deep look at this word and how it is used in scripture. It is a word Jesus used to describe the servants in His parables, It is the word many used to describe themselves (like James, Jude, Paul, and others) and it is a word that can describe our work situations. Most importantly, it is a word that should describe our relationship to Jesus... Does it describe yours?
What is a bondservant? We take a deep look at this word and how it is used in scripture. It is a word Jesus used to describe the servants in His parables, It is the word many used to describe themselves (like James, Jude, Paul, and others) and it is a word that can describe our work situations. Most importantly, it is a word that should describe our relationship to Jesus... Does it describe yours?
If you are not a child, what would Ephesians 6:1 have to teach you? A good bit actually! You see this word for “obey” is fascinating in it’s use and especially when you compare it to the other word that could have been used. Learning this word will teach you why Jesus did some of the things He did and why we have had less success when we have battled the enemy of our faith.
If you are not a child, what would Ephesians 6:1 have to teach you? A good bit actually! You see this word for “obey” is fascinating in it’s use and especially when you compare it to the other word that could have been used. Learning this word will teach you why Jesus did some of the things He did and why we have had less success when we have battled the enemy of our faith.
We are finishing up Ephesians 5 with the part of "Husbands love your wives" and in learning this we will see many things beyond the husband / wife relationship that will help you in your daily walk. Even if you are unmarried, this chapter will help you.
We are finishing up Ephesians 5 with the part of "Husbands love your wives" and in learning this we will see many things beyond the husband / wife relationship that will help you in your daily walk. Even if you are unmarried, this chapter will help you.
Our lack of understanding of Biblical submission is why we have such a bad taste about submission in the church and marriage. The example Paul gives us as a baseline is the church submitting to Jesus Christ, so first we need to get a good understanding of it in order to understand how to apply it elsewhere.
Understanding this will affect how we pray, believe, make confessions, and see what we state in faith to have positive changes in our lives. Without true Biblical submission Christians make vain declarations of faith, faithless prayers, and have useless daily confessions to change their situations, but see no fruit. How can we change this?
Our lack of understanding of Biblical submission is why we have such a bad taste about submission in the church and marriage. The example Paul gives us as a baseline is the church submitting to Jesus Christ, so first we need to get a good understanding of it in order to understand how to apply it elsewhere.
Understanding this will affect how we pray, believe, make confessions, and see what we state in faith to have positive changes in our lives. Without true Biblical submission Christians make vain declarations of faith, faithless prayers, and have useless daily confessions to change their situations, but see no fruit. How can we change this?
Can you be filled with the spirit and not be fruity, flaky, unstable, or unapproachable? YES!
Can you be filled with the spirit and not be fruity, flaky, unstable, or unapproachable? YES!
One of the biggest keys to understanding the will of God is to make sure you are hearing the words of God before you come to any actions or conclusions. In tonight’s service you will see from a well known person in the word how to absolutely tell if a word is from God, your flesh, or the enemy. People mistaking a word from the latter two for a word from God will always fail in their understanding of the will of God. No matter how spiritual you think you are or are not, you can do this!
One of the biggest keys to understanding the will of God is to make sure you are hearing the words of God before you come to any actions or conclusions. In tonight’s service you will see from a well known person in the word how to absolutely tell if a word is from God, your flesh, or the enemy. People mistaking a word from the latter two for a word from God will always fail in their understanding of the will of God. No matter how spiritual you think you are or are not, you can do this!
In the first chapters covering Abraham's life we see how he floundered and then flourished in the will of God. This week we pick up the later part of his life where he advanced in the will of God.
In the first chapters covering Abraham's life we see how he floundered and then flourished in the will of God. This week we pick up the later part of his life where he advanced in the will of God.
How does Abraham go from believing what God says and leaving his home for an unknown land, to laughing as God speaks His will and plan to him? Learning how Abraham got there will show us how we too went from believing in God for healing a condition or overcoming a financial problem, to despair that we just won’t ever be victorious. The good news in these chapters (Genesis 17-18) is that God put Abraham on a path to overcome his doubts and we can follow it to overcome ours.
Abraham thought he understood God’s plan when he started, but found that understanding wasn’t quite working out. His problem began when the understanding he walked in was not the one God needed him to see, and the further he went down that path, the harder it was for him to get back. Do we need to fully understand the plan of God from the beginning? What can we do if we understood something errantly?
How does Abraham go from believing what God says and leaving his home for an unknown land, to laughing as God speaks His will and plan to him? Learning how Abraham got there will show us how we too went from believing in God for healing a condition or overcoming a financial problem, to despair that we just won’t ever be victorious. The good news in these chapters (Genesis 17-18) is that God put Abraham on a path to overcome his doubts and we can follow it to overcome ours.
Abraham thought he understood God’s plan when he started, but found that understanding wasn’t quite working out. His problem began when the understanding he walked in was not the one God needed him to see, and the further he went down that path, the harder it was for him to get back. Do we need to fully understand the plan of God from the beginning? What can we do if we understood something errantly?
We all know what it's like to go against public opinion, or what is the popular and acceptable thing to do or think. On this day in the life of Jesus you can imagine not everyone felt the same way as the crowd around them! Is it ever Okay to go along? To not change your beliefs, but also not speak up? Are we expected to be vocal when our God, His Son, or His word are spoken against?
In tonight's Good Friday service we will be looking at a lesser examined person involved in the day our Lord was crucified. Were they bold or timid, courageous or fearful? What can we learn from their life and what they did on Jesus behalf that day, when standing with Jesus identified you with a wrong group by societies definition.
We all know what it's like to go against public opinion, or what is the popular and acceptable thing to do or think. On this day in the life of Jesus you can imagine not everyone felt the same way as the crowd around them! Is it ever Okay to go along? To not change your beliefs, but also not speak up? Are we expected to be vocal when our God, His Son, or His word are spoken against?
In tonight's Good Friday service we will be looking at a lesser examined person involved in the day our Lord was crucified. Were they bold or timid, courageous or fearful? What can we learn from their life and what they did on Jesus behalf that day, when standing with Jesus identified you with a wrong group by societies definition.
How can you know the difference between something God speaks to you to guide into His will, and something that comes from man or the kingdom of darkness to steer you away from it? We look at this and other questions as we look to know and understand the will of God for our life. Looking at the life of Abram and Sarai we can learn a great deal on this topic.
How can you know the difference between something God speaks to you to guide into His will, and something that comes from man or the kingdom of darkness to steer you away from it? We look at this and other questions as we look to know and understand the will of God for our life. Looking at the life of Abram and Sarai we can learn a great deal on this topic.
Last Wednesday we looked at three reasons why Christians don’t see or understand the will of God for their lives (immaturity, flawed knowledge, and undeveloped faith) and there was interest in going further into this topic to see how we grow and get beyond these road blocks in our understanding and seeing the God’s will and plan for us.
In preparing for this, the easiest way to go was to look at more examples of how people who failed overcame, and we will do that. But I also looked at a few examples of people who didn’t fail, but rose to the occasion when God disclosed His will for them. For each, what was asked stretched them, but they didn’t falter. I noticed a pattern that we will do good to study first, as that pattern was lacking in the ones who failed initially. This is a pattern you can expect to repeat when you encounter something in the will of God that stretches you.
Last Wednesday we looked at three reasons why Christians don’t see or understand the will of God for their lives (immaturity, flawed knowledge, and undeveloped faith) and there was interest in going further into this topic to see how we grow and get beyond these road blocks in our understanding and seeing the God’s will and plan for us.
In preparing for this, the easiest way to go was to look at more examples of how people who failed overcame, and we will do that. But I also looked at a few examples of people who didn’t fail, but rose to the occasion when God disclosed His will for them. For each, what was asked stretched them, but they didn’t falter. I noticed a pattern that we will do good to study first, as that pattern was lacking in the ones who failed initially. This is a pattern you can expect to repeat when you encounter something in the will of God that stretches you.
A prevailing thought among Christians is that submission to the will of God does not always require a knowledge of it. People end a statement of their plans with “if it be the will of God” and think this is part of being submitted to God’s will that is unknown to them, or at least accepting whatever God wants for them that they don’t know about. The concept seems innocent enough but the more I say and think this, the more expectant I become to not knowing what God wants for me. But the word of God teaches us otherwise and here in Ephesians 5 Paul says to not understand the will of God is on par with being unwise.
In tonight’s mid-week service we look at the pit falls of not knowing the will of God, what doors this opens for the enemy, and what expectation we should have to “understand what the will of the Lord is.”
A prevailing thought among Christians is that submission to the will of God does not always require a knowledge of it. People end a statement of their plans with “if it be the will of God” and think this is part of being submitted to God’s will that is unknown to them, or at least accepting whatever God wants for them that they don’t know about. The concept seems innocent enough but the more I say and think this, the more expectant I become to not knowing what God wants for me. But the word of God teaches us otherwise and here in Ephesians 5 Paul says to not understand the will of God is on par with being unwise.
In tonight’s mid-week service we look at the pit falls of not knowing the will of God, what doors this opens for the enemy, and what expectation we should have to “understand what the will of the Lord is.”
We are to walk in the light, as children of light, but what about those in darkness that we know? What kind of connection can we have with them?
We are to walk in the light, as children of light, but what about those in darkness that we know? What kind of connection can we have with them?
If you, as a child of light, walk in darkness, what are the repercussions? Paul has spent a number of verses looking at the difference between light and darkness and now he exhorts us to order our behavior in the light, not in the darkness as we once did. What can we expect to happen to us if we ignore the warning and pick up habitual and lifestyle sins?
To get the answer we will look at some people in the Word who once walked in the light, but went back to walking in darkness. Let’s see why Paul is so passionate about people of the light keeping their walk in the light.
If you, as a child of light, walk in darkness, what are the repercussions? Paul has spent a number of verses looking at the difference between light and darkness and now he exhorts us to order our behavior in the light, not in the darkness as we once did. What can we expect to happen to us if we ignore the warning and pick up habitual and lifestyle sins?
To get the answer we will look at some people in the Word who once walked in the light, but went back to walking in darkness. Let’s see why Paul is so passionate about people of the light keeping their walk in the light.
What does Paul mean when he states “the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband” in 1 Corinthians 7:14? Tonight, as we continue to study the letter of Ephesians, we come across a word that will shed some light on what Paul’s thought here in 1 Corinthians is. Also, Paul exhorts us to imitate God. How are we supposed to do that when we don’t actually see God? Why not just say “become imitators of Jesus?”
What does Paul mean when he states “the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband” in 1 Corinthians 7:14? Tonight, as we continue to study the letter of Ephesians, we come across a word that will shed some light on what Paul’s thought here in 1 Corinthians is. Also, Paul exhorts us to imitate God. How are we supposed to do that when we don’t actually see God? Why not just say “become imitators of Jesus?”
Paul gives the reader examples of how to tell if you have put the old man back on again. See how you do!
Paul gives the reader examples of how to tell if you have put the old man back on again. See how you do!
How does Paul expect us to learn Christ? He has a definite way in mind here and in starting Ephesians 4:20 out with "But you have not..." indicates it is different in at least some ways from the process of being darkened he described in the verses before.
So how do you learn Christ? If you are not following the way Paul is encouraging, can you really expect the results of learning the right thing? Is this why so may Christians have some very wierd and even unbiblical beliefs?
How does Paul expect us to learn Christ? He has a definite way in mind here and in starting Ephesians 4:20 out with "But you have not..." indicates it is different in at least some ways from the process of being darkened he described in the verses before.
So how do you learn Christ? If you are not following the way Paul is encouraging, can you really expect the results of learning the right thing? Is this why so may Christians have some very wierd and even unbiblical beliefs?
How does a Christian walking in the light become a person of darkness? That is what Paul is addressing here in Ephesians 4:17-19. The word “darkened” means to “to deprive of light, or to make dark” so some level of light had to have been given. Looking closely at these verses we will see some truths about the darkness of the unsaved as well as how a born again person can turn again to the darkness from which they came. It’s important that we know how it happens so we don’t fall into it.
How does a Christian walking in the light become a person of darkness? That is what Paul is addressing here in Ephesians 4:17-19. The word “darkened” means to “to deprive of light, or to make dark” so some level of light had to have been given. Looking closely at these verses we will see some truths about the darkness of the unsaved as well as how a born again person can turn again to the darkness from which they came. It’s important that we know how it happens so we don’t fall into it.
What happened when Jesus "ascended on high?" Paul quotes a verse from Psalms 68 in discussing this, and its use he ties two other events into the ascension of Jesus. What are these events and what light do the shed on what happened? The verse tells us that "He led captivity captive," so what did Jesus lead captive? Was it something the cross gave Him victory over or was there another victory.
I've been spending a good bit of today to get an understanding of the other two events that using Psalm 68 brings into this, and also looking at the ascension of Jesus. There were two, so which one is in mind here? The first after he rose from the dead, or the second from the mount of Olives? There is a good bit of teaching about Jesus leading captivity captive, but if our understanding is wrong, so are our conclusions.
What happened when Jesus "ascended on high?" Paul quotes a verse from Psalms 68 in discussing this, and its use he ties two other events into the ascension of Jesus. What are these events and what light do the shed on what happened? The verse tells us that "He led captivity captive," so what did Jesus lead captive? Was it something the cross gave Him victory over or was there another victory.
I've been spending a good bit of today to get an understanding of the other two events that using Psalm 68 brings into this, and also looking at the ascension of Jesus. There were two, so which one is in mind here? The first after he rose from the dead, or the second from the mount of Olives? There is a good bit of teaching about Jesus leading captivity captive, but if our understanding is wrong, so are our conclusions.
What are the main characteristics our walk should demonstrate? Paul begins our text tonight in Ephesians 4 with four characteristics that should be a part of our walk. What are they, how do I know if they are apart of me, and how can I get them or make them stronger? If you can get these four characteristics working in your life, your life will greatly improve! That’s not all that is in these opening verses
What are the main characteristics our walk should demonstrate? Paul begins our text tonight in Ephesians 4 with four characteristics that should be a part of our walk. What are they, how do I know if they are apart of me, and how can I get them or make them stronger? If you can get these four characteristics working in your life, your life will greatly improve! That’s not all that is in these opening verses
We look at the basis of Paul's second prayer for the saints and how this prayer can benefit us.
We look at the basis of Paul's second prayer for the saints and how this prayer can benefit us.
Paul discusses “The Ages” as this chapter begins, so what are they and how do they impact the way we live our Christian life now?
Paul discusses “The Ages” as this chapter begins, so what are they and how do they impact the way we live our Christian life now?
Are the covenants of Israel relative to us today? Paul states that these saints were once strangers from the covenants (plural) of promise, the ones made to Israel in the Old Testament. What are these covenants and how are they relevant to us today? Also, Paul looks at the devil's call sign of getting people to focus on one single trait of a person and decide on that basis if they are good or evil, but this is not God's way.
Are the covenants of Israel relative to us today? Paul states that these saints were once strangers from the covenants (plural) of promise, the ones made to Israel in the Old Testament. What are these covenants and how are they relevant to us today? Also, Paul looks at the devil's call sign of getting people to focus on one single trait of a person and decide on that basis if they are good or evil, but this is not God's way.
The opening verses of this chapter teach us a great deal about the world we live in. Understanding this will help us to not become like the world, but to walk different!
The opening verses of this chapter teach us a great deal about the world we live in. Understanding this will help us to not become like the world, but to walk different!
What does Paul mean when he says that God "works all things according to the counsel of His will?"
What does Paul mean when he says that God "works all things according to the counsel of His will?"
A look at the teaching of Paul on Predestination, as we continue in our study of Ephesians. Much is taught about Predestination but none of it can be demonstrated in scripture. At the end of this lesson we look at examples of how this type of predestination belief is supported with Biblical examples.
A look at the teaching of Paul on Predestination, as we continue in our study of Ephesians. Much is taught about Predestination but none of it can be demonstrated in scripture. At the end of this lesson we look at examples of how this type of predestination belief is supported with Biblical examples.
Why did God not put a pause or break in the prophesies about the coming Messiah, like Isaiah 61 when it describes what Jesus would do in His first and then His second coming? The two comings of Jesus have different purposes (in short the 1st to redeem; the 2nd to rule.) Was the confusion this brought intentional to keep it a mystery?
In the Midweek service tomorrow night we begin a new series, looking at the Epistle to the Ephesians. I heard a great summary on Ephesians as being a statement of our heavenly account, with the first half telling us what is in the account and the second half how to use it.
We begin with a overview of the book and a look into the mystery of the church age that this epistle defines for us so well.
Why did God not put a pause or break in the prophesies about the coming Messiah, like Isaiah 61 when it describes what Jesus would do in His first and then His second coming? The two comings of Jesus have different purposes (in short the 1st to redeem; the 2nd to rule.) Was the confusion this brought intentional to keep it a mystery?
In the Midweek service tomorrow night we begin a new series, looking at the Epistle to the Ephesians. I heard a great summary on Ephesians as being a statement of our heavenly account, with the first half telling us what is in the account and the second half how to use it.
We begin with a overview of the book and a look into the mystery of the church age that this epistle defines for us so well.
Keith Porter is ministering from 1 John 4:1-21. Can the love of God affect our earthly relationships, even though the God kind of love seems to set an impossible standard. We'll find out "What love's got to do with it" tonight.
Does God allow things that do us harm to happen in order to accomplish His good? Joseph tells his brothers that "you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive." Did God mean or intend for this to happen to Joseph? I looked at all the translations I could, but there was no help in them and there is a reason for that. We will look at what Joseph is saying and see what we can learn about the events in our own lives. I think there is a good understanding to be had here.
There are other principles to get to as well in a pretty packed final chapter of Genesis.
Does God allow things that do us harm to happen in order to accomplish His good? Joseph tells his brothers that "you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive." Did God mean or intend for this to happen to Joseph? I looked at all the translations I could, but there was no help in them and there is a reason for that. We will look at what Joseph is saying and see what we can learn about the events in our own lives. I think there is a good understanding to be had here.
There are other principles to get to as well in a pretty packed final chapter of Genesis.
How much of our past mistakes and bad decisions are we held accountable for? Can we ever overcome them? Did the blood of Jesus separate us from any consequences of these mistakes or bad decisions? It might be nice to just think everything got washed away, but then there is a problem looking at Genesis 49. Jacob's "blessings" over his first three sons were more of a curse, and all three stemmed from a mistake they made in their younger days.
What was spoken over them came about, so here is one of the big questions we will take on tomorrow night in the midweek service. In God's eyes will I always be under the affects of my past bad decisions? How is it that Jacob doesn't even mention what they all did to Joseph? If they were not held accountable for that, what made these mistakes so much greater or unable to be overcome? Were mistakes like theirs overcome by others?
How much of our past mistakes and bad decisions are we held accountable for? Can we ever overcome them? Did the blood of Jesus separate us from any consequences of these mistakes or bad decisions? It might be nice to just think everything got washed away, but then there is a problem looking at Genesis 49. Jacob's "blessings" over his first three sons were more of a curse, and all three stemmed from a mistake they made in their younger days.
What was spoken over them came about, so here is one of the big questions we will take on tomorrow night in the midweek service. In God's eyes will I always be under the affects of my past bad decisions? How is it that Jacob doesn't even mention what they all did to Joseph? If they were not held accountable for that, what made these mistakes so much greater or unable to be overcome? Were mistakes like theirs overcome by others?
Is there someone in your life that is very negative? Always sees the bad side of whatever occurs in their life? Maybe it’s evn yourself. How do you help those you know or yourself? We learn from Jacob the life of a negative view person can be brought around and we see how it can be done.
Is there someone in your life that is very negative? Always sees the bad side of whatever occurs in their life? Maybe it’s evn yourself. How do you help those you know or yourself? We learn from Jacob the life of a negative view person can be brought around and we see how it can be done.
Why did Jacob seem to always talk about his soon arriving death? There is a reason and understanding it can help us better enjoy our lives here. The chapter moves on to Joseph’s handling of the rest of the famine and how the Egyptians lost their money, livestock, land, and even became slaves. Was this right to do? I did some research into the famine and found some very interesting things I will show you tonight. The chapter ends with Joseph’s vow to Jacob and what this action means.
Why did Jacob seem to always talk about his soon arriving death? There is a reason and understanding it can help us better enjoy our lives here. The chapter moves on to Joseph’s handling of the rest of the famine and how the Egyptians lost their money, livestock, land, and even became slaves. Was this right to do? I did some research into the famine and found some very interesting things I will show you tonight. The chapter ends with Joseph’s vow to Jacob and what this action means.
Why is getting Israel into the land of Goshen so important? Since it was first mentioned in Genesis 45:10 we see it repeated 7 more times up in 46:28 - 47:27. Joseph carefully constructions what he will say to Pharaoh and what the family is to say to Pharaoh. Has God shown something to Joseph? The answer to these questions will help you understand some things we face in life today. If we don’t understand and operate in the wisdom Joseph followed, we can create a problem instead of avoiding it completely
Why is getting Israel into the land of Goshen so important? Since it was first mentioned in Genesis 45:10 we see it repeated 7 more times up in 46:28 - 47:27. Joseph carefully constructions what he will say to Pharaoh and what the family is to say to Pharaoh. Has God shown something to Joseph? The answer to these questions will help you understand some things we face in life today. If we don’t understand and operate in the wisdom Joseph followed, we can create a problem instead of avoiding it completely
Joseph is finally free to reveal himself to his brothers after over a year upon first seeing them. Joseph knows it’s coming down to this now and he must be excited with anticipation, but still keeps his sights on accomplishing the mission God gave him. Not only will Joseph’s response show us some things, so to will Pharaoh’s and his father Jacob.
Joseph is finally free to reveal himself to his brothers after over a year upon first seeing them. Joseph knows it’s coming down to this now and he must be excited with anticipation, but still keeps his sights on accomplishing the mission God gave him. Not only will Joseph’s response show us some things, so to will Pharaoh’s and his father Jacob.
In this midweek service we come to find out why God had given Joseph the two dreams. It begins with Joseph setting up Benjamin to be found guilty of something he did not do. So what happens next and why did Joseph do this?
In this midweek service we come to find out why God had given Joseph the two dreams. It begins with Joseph setting up Benjamin to be found guilty of something he did not do. So what happens next and why did Joseph do this?
We come to the place of the first dream’s fulfillment and can begin to understand the purpose they were given to Joseph for.
We come to the place of the first dream’s fulfillment and can begin to understand the purpose they were given to Joseph for.
In Genesis 42, Joseph’s brothers arrive and bow at his feet. The word says in Vs. 9 that Joseph remembered his dreams and you can certainly see why. So tonight we begin to see what these dreams meant and what they showed Joseph about what was to come. If you have been curious as to what his dreams actually meant, this is the first look at discovering it.
In Genesis 42, Joseph’s brothers arrive and bow at his feet. The word says in Vs. 9 that Joseph remembered his dreams and you can certainly see why. So tonight we begin to see what these dreams meant and what they showed Joseph about what was to come. If you have been curious as to what his dreams actually meant, this is the first look at discovering it.
How do you respond when it seems like your dream is coming to pass? You know you are here for more than you’ve realized and now it seems to be changing? Do you stop being who you were and become what you think you need to be?
Many have done this but Joseph needs to be who he has been. Being who he is not what has kept him from being who he was called to be. What he was prepared for was not yet ready for him yet, but now it is.
How do you respond when it seems like your dream is coming to pass? You know you are here for more than you’ve realized and now it seems to be changing? Do you stop being who you were and become what you think you need to be?
Many have done this but Joseph needs to be who he has been. Being who he is not what has kept him from being who he was called to be. What he was prepared for was not yet ready for him yet, but now it is.
You have probably been in a situation waiting for a promise of God to manifest, be it healing, financial, employment, or as with Joseph a calling to a higher position and purpose than what he had at the time. When we continually wait and time passes by it can be difficult to keep your faith, hope, and joy up. At times, you may feel like you are putting on a false face for others so they see you as you know or think you should be in these areas. In this state we are so susceptible to go after something that it seems Joseph did here in Genesis 40. What was it, how could it be harmful, and how do we guard against it?
You have probably been in a situation waiting for a promise of God to manifest, be it healing, financial, employment, or as with Joseph a calling to a higher position and purpose than what he had at the time. When we continually wait and time passes by it can be difficult to keep your faith, hope, and joy up. At times, you may feel like you are putting on a false face for others so they see you as you know or think you should be in these areas. In this state we are so susceptible to go after something that it seems Joseph did here in Genesis 40. What was it, how could it be harmful, and how do we guard against it?
Joseph was forced into slavery, forced into serving a man not of his choosing, and then his wife tried to force him into doing things that were wrong, possibly even using her position of authority over him as he was just a slave.
How many situations are forced upon us? Situations in which we think we have few or no choices? A tactic of the enemy is to put you in situations where you seem to have no choice but to do what you know is wrong or at least compromised, and many fall. Let’s see what happens to Joseph and how he handles this.
Joseph was forced into slavery, forced into serving a man not of his choosing, and then his wife tried to force him into doing things that were wrong, possibly even using her position of authority over him as he was just a slave.
How many situations are forced upon us? Situations in which we think we have few or no choices? A tactic of the enemy is to put you in situations where you seem to have no choice but to do what you know is wrong or at least compromised, and many fall. Let’s see what happens to Joseph and how he handles this.
What can we learn about Joseph’s dream to help with our own life or involvement with dreams? Tonight we look at the dream and what it shows us about Joseph and those around him.
What can we learn about Joseph’s dream to help with our own life or involvement with dreams? Tonight we look at the dream and what it shows us about Joseph and those around him.
I had a three places in mind as our next series, but settled on this one for a few reasons. One, it’s been 16 years since we last did a close look at this Bible hero and all the stories surrounding him. Second, there is a secondary study we will take up that has had people’s interest of late. And third, I’ve been getting a lot more insight just in contemplating the scriptures around this hero of faith, more so than the other two areas.
So tonight we begin a series looking at the life of Joseph with a side study of dreams, their potential significance, how we can know if they have any significance at all, and where to go to learn their meaning. Part of tonight’s first look will be to go over 4 levels of understanding we can walk in and some signs that can tell us where we are. That level can be different for each aspect of our lives.
I had a three places in mind as our next series, but settled on this one for a few reasons. One, it’s been 16 years since we last did a close look at this Bible hero and all the stories surrounding him. Second, there is a secondary study we will take up that has had people’s interest of late. And third, I’ve been getting a lot more insight just in contemplating the scriptures around this hero of faith, more so than the other two areas.
So tonight we begin a series looking at the life of Joseph with a side study of dreams, their potential significance, how we can know if they have any significance at all, and where to go to learn their meaning. Part of tonight’s first look will be to go over 4 levels of understanding we can walk in and some signs that can tell us where we are. That level can be different for each aspect of our lives.
How does a person who wonders from the truth become restored? How did they wonder to begin with? This is how James ends his epistle. No goodby sign off or closing prayer, just his words to this topic of restoring one who wondered from the truth. James speaks highly of the ministry of restoring, but we will see that this ministry is very close to something that is not spoken very highly about. How can you make sure you are doing the good ministry and not the look alike?
How does a person who wonders from the truth become restored? How did they wonder to begin with? This is how James ends his epistle. No goodby sign off or closing prayer, just his words to this topic of restoring one who wondered from the truth. James speaks highly of the ministry of restoring, but we will see that this ministry is very close to something that is not spoken very highly about. How can you make sure you are doing the good ministry and not the look alike?
What kinds of prayers fit in to what the word of God calls "Fervent Prayer?" Some of the questions I've heard seem to indicate I haven't given a sufficient handle of this for people to really get a hold of it, so I'm going to spend another week on this. We will look at some other examples of fervent prayer that are different from the ones we went over last time.
What kinds of prayers fit in to what the word of God calls "Fervent Prayer?" Some of the questions I've heard seem to indicate I haven't given a sufficient handle of this for people to really get a hold of it, so I'm going to spend another week on this. We will look at some other examples of fervent prayer that are different from the ones we went over last time.
What is an effective fervent prayer? If we can avail much with such praying, it would certainly help us to know just what James is referring to, so tonight we will be spending most of our time looking at this kind of prayer. We will also look at the confessing he brings up in the beginning of the verse. So we won’t be finishing the book of James tonight, but I think it will be worth our time to just focus on these three verses, and to answer this question: Is it more important to have faith or to be fervent in prayer? Our full text is James 5:16-18.
What is an effective fervent prayer? If we can avail much with such praying, it would certainly help us to know just what James is referring to, so tonight we will be spending most of our time looking at this kind of prayer. We will also look at the confessing he brings up in the beginning of the verse. So we won’t be finishing the book of James tonight, but I think it will be worth our time to just focus on these three verses, and to answer this question: Is it more important to have faith or to be fervent in prayer? Our full text is James 5:16-18.
As we walk by faith in God and His word it seems like we are taught more to respond apart from our feelings than with them, but In these verses in James he teaches us how to respond when our feelings are engaged. Those that are suffering, those that are cheerful, and those that are sick are told to have three different responses. Much can be learned from what James and the rest of the Word of God teach us, and we will be spending a large part of the time on the third one, sickness. There are some things here to learn from the text that will help us better understand these verses and others like it. Our full text is James 5:13-15.
As we walk by faith in God and His word it seems like we are taught more to respond apart from our feelings than with them, but In these verses in James he teaches us how to respond when our feelings are engaged. Those that are suffering, those that are cheerful, and those that are sick are told to have three different responses. Much can be learned from what James and the rest of the Word of God teach us, and we will be spending a large part of the time on the third one, sickness. There are some things here to learn from the text that will help us better understand these verses and others like it. Our full text is James 5:13-15.
What is James saying about rich people? This is the second time he brought them into this letter. Are we better off being poor? How does the patience James has in mind help us in the things he is exhorting his church about? The last verse in our passage tonight talks about not swearing by things like heaven or earth. Does that mean we should not be sworn in to tell the truth?
What is James saying about rich people? This is the second time he brought them into this letter. Are we better off being poor? How does the patience James has in mind help us in the things he is exhorting his church about? The last verse in our passage tonight talks about not swearing by things like heaven or earth. Does that mean we should not be sworn in to tell the truth?
How is James telling us to live and think about our lives and the plans we make? Are we in line with this teaching when we say “if the Lords wills” to the things we plan for tomorrow? James has a flow to what he is teaching and if we understand the flow, we understand the meaning. Besides the plans we make we also look at what James teaches about boasting and ignoring.
How is James telling us to live and think about our lives and the plans we make? Are we in line with this teaching when we say “if the Lords wills” to the things we plan for tomorrow? James has a flow to what he is teaching and if we understand the flow, we understand the meaning. Besides the plans we make we also look at what James teaches about boasting and ignoring.
What is speaking evil against our brothers or sisters, and what are we not to judge? There is a ditch on both sides of the road to fall into when looking to keep your walk on the road God wants you to, so we will spend time tonight identifying the ditches and the road we are to be on. As always we will look to other parts of the Word to help us understand what James is teaching here in chapter 4:11-12.
What is speaking evil against our brothers or sisters, and what are we not to judge? There is a ditch on both sides of the road to fall into when looking to keep your walk on the road God wants you to, so we will spend time tonight identifying the ditches and the road we are to be on. As always we will look to other parts of the Word to help us understand what James is teaching here in chapter 4:11-12.
The world is always trying to pull us away from God, and tonight we look at the ways it does and what we look like when we take on both a friend of God and a friend of the world. It wouldn't be worthwhile if we didn't also look at how to extract the world from us and become immune to it's influence.
The world is always trying to pull us away from God, and tonight we look at the ways it does and what we look like when we take on both a friend of God and a friend of the world. It wouldn't be worthwhile if we didn't also look at how to extract the world from us and become immune to it's influence.
Speaking foolish words will harm you; speaking wise words will help you! When we have control of our tongue or the words we express, we must ensure they are sourced only by the wisdom of God. This wisdom is easy to discern from any other, and James tells us how. Want to know if you have been pulled in by a source of wisdom that brings evil things into your life?
Speaking foolish words will harm you; speaking wise words will help you! When we have control of our tongue or the words we express, we must ensure they are sourced only by the wisdom of God. This wisdom is easy to discern from any other, and James tells us how. Want to know if you have been pulled in by a source of wisdom that brings evil things into your life?
Is there a guard on your mouth? Maybe there should be! All things that are valuable or important have a guard and the word tells us to have one on our mouth. This seems to indicate that the words we let out of it have great value or importance. I look forward to finishing James 3 and sharing the things I have written down about it, but we are going back over verses 1-12 again to cover some important principles I don’t want to leave uncovered.
Is there a guard on your mouth? Maybe there should be! All things that are valuable or important have a guard and the word tells us to have one on our mouth. This seems to indicate that the words we let out of it have great value or importance. I look forward to finishing James 3 and sharing the things I have written down about it, but we are going back over verses 1-12 again to cover some important principles I don’t want to leave uncovered.
In tonight's midweek service we look at James teaching on taming the tongue. He starts out with a warning that not many should become teachers and we will compare that to Paul's teaching that seems to say something different. James then goes on to show how the tongue sets the direction for our life, and that just as our faith should not be tossed about, neither should our tongue. Best of all, we will see how to bring our tongue into submission to our spirit.
In tonight's midweek service we look at James teaching on taming the tongue. He starts out with a warning that not many should become teachers and we will compare that to Paul's teaching that seems to say something different. James then goes on to show how the tongue sets the direction for our life, and that just as our faith should not be tossed about, neither should our tongue. Best of all, we will see how to bring our tongue into submission to our spirit.
Is dead faith undeveloped faith (ignored and never developed), ineffective faith (never risen to a challenge and seldom seeing results), inconsistent faith (it sometimes wins and other times loses), insincere (faith that isn’t genuine), or something else? If we misunderstand the type of faith James is speaking of we will not understand or correctly apply the fix. So in tomorrow’s midweek service, we will look at what dead faith is and how to fix it. We might even look into how to fix the problems James doesn’t.
Is dead faith undeveloped faith (ignored and never developed), ineffective faith (never risen to a challenge and seldom seeing results), inconsistent faith (it sometimes wins and other times loses), insincere (faith that isn’t genuine), or something else? If we misunderstand the type of faith James is speaking of we will not understand or correctly apply the fix. So in tomorrow’s midweek service, we will look at what dead faith is and how to fix it. We might even look into how to fix the problems James doesn’t.
How can I know the genuineness of my faith? I’ve been going through test and trials and I think I have been enduring like James has been speaking to, but I’m still in the trial. How do I know if I am genuinely standing in faith or just stuck in a bad place? Wouldn’t it be great if we could go through a self test to see? Well, James tells us how to do it as we take on the rest of chapter 1 beginning with verse 19 in tonight’s midweek service.
How can I know the genuineness of my faith? I’ve been going through test and trials and I think I have been enduring like James has been speaking to, but I’m still in the trial. How do I know if I am genuinely standing in faith or just stuck in a bad place? Wouldn’t it be great if we could go through a self test to see? Well, James tells us how to do it as we take on the rest of chapter 1 beginning with verse 19 in tonight’s midweek service.
Don’t stop at counting it all joy when you enter into a test or trial, for if we endure in it we are called blessed. The only difference between those that are blessed and those who are not is their endurance. Once we are approved there is a crown or reward waiting for us! So who does the approval and what is the criteria, and can we know when the approval has been reached? So much in these 7 verses and I hope you can be part of our study together, tonight at 7:30 PM in church or on Facebook Live.
Don’t stop at counting it all joy when you enter into a test or trial, for if we endure in it we are called blessed. The only difference between those that are blessed and those who are not is their endurance. Once we are approved there is a crown or reward waiting for us! So who does the approval and what is the criteria, and can we know when the approval has been reached? So much in these 7 verses and I hope you can be part of our study together, tonight at 7:30 PM in church or on Facebook Live.
What is the purpose of the lowly being exalted and the rich being humbled? Who is doing the humbling and exalting? As with any truth in the Word of God the enemy has corrupted the understanding of these verse. You may have to shed some preconceive ideas on these verses as we endeavor through the context and other scriptures what is meant here.
What is the purpose of the lowly being exalted and the rich being humbled? Who is doing the humbling and exalting? As with any truth in the Word of God the enemy has corrupted the understanding of these verse. You may have to shed some preconceive ideas on these verses as we endeavor through the context and other scriptures what is meant here.
Why does James go from verse 4 "complete lacking nothing" to verse 5 "If any of you lacks wisdom..."? There is a progression here and in the verses to come after that teach a great principle to cause our Christian walk to soar!
Why does James go from verse 4 "complete lacking nothing" to verse 5 "If any of you lacks wisdom..."? There is a progression here and in the verses to come after that teach a great principle to cause our Christian walk to soar!
We've heard it said before "Attitude is everything!" Certainly our attitude in a situation changes not only how we view it, but also how we handle it. That is the subject of James opening to his church scattered about. No matter what they face in life because of their faith in Jesus the attitude they have can make or break them.
The same is true for us and as we look at these verses we will see what that attitude is that is so needed, how to develop it in us if it's missing, and what end we are working toward.
We've heard it said before "Attitude is everything!" Certainly our attitude in a situation changes not only how we view it, but also how we handle it. That is the subject of James opening to his church scattered about. No matter what they face in life because of their faith in Jesus the attitude they have can make or break them.
The same is true for us and as we look at these verses we will see what that attitude is that is so needed, how to develop it in us if it's missing, and what end we are working toward.
All around us there are events that are good, bad, or indifferent occurring all around us and believers ask “where is God in this?” Did He bring it about, allow it to happen, or was there something we were to do to keep it away? Some of these events were national like the fate of Jerusalem or the death of an evil ruler like Herod. Others were more widespread like a terrible Caesar Nero coming to power, or a famine that the prophets announced. Still others were changes to individuals like a new baby, death of a provider, or sudden move away from Judea. Events both good or bad can bring great times of testing! We all love babies and watching them grow up is an exciting part of life, but they bring changes and test our physical and spiritual abilities.
James is a letter from a pastor to his church that has scattered about the Roman empire. He no longer has a Sunday morning connection with them to encourage them in their tests and trials, so he wrote them a letter to make it’s way around to the many places they now call home. His words of wisdom given through the Holy Spirit’s inspiration will help us as we try to see the hand of God on our families, our church, our nation, and this world in all the chaos and evil the devil’s kingdom throws our way. Is what we see from God? How do we respond to the evil and how do we find the good? How do I keep from giving up and hide out until the coming of Jesus Christ?
All around us there are events that are good, bad, or indifferent occurring all around us and believers ask “where is God in this?” Did He bring it about, allow it to happen, or was there something we were to do to keep it away? Some of these events were national like the fate of Jerusalem or the death of an evil ruler like Herod. Others were more widespread like a terrible Caesar Nero coming to power, or a famine that the prophets announced. Still others were changes to individuals like a new baby, death of a provider, or sudden move away from Judea. Events both good or bad can bring great times of testing! We all love babies and watching them grow up is an exciting part of life, but they bring changes and test our physical and spiritual abilities.
James is a letter from a pastor to his church that has scattered about the Roman empire. He no longer has a Sunday morning connection with them to encourage them in their tests and trials, so he wrote them a letter to make it’s way around to the many places they now call home. His words of wisdom given through the Holy Spirit’s inspiration will help us as we try to see the hand of God on our families, our church, our nation, and this world in all the chaos and evil the devil’s kingdom throws our way. Is what we see from God? How do we respond to the evil and how do we find the good? How do I keep from giving up and hide out until the coming of Jesus Christ?
Finishing the epistle of Jude with the last two verses (24 and 25) we are looking at how Jesus is able to keep us from stumbling and present us faultless! What a way to finish out this great letter! It looks like the last time we covered Jude in 2006 I didn't spend much time on these verses, but we will make up for that tonight as they receive our full focus. How does Jesus keep us from stumbling (and the Greek sheds a lot of light here) and then present us faultless? We will finish up with something in verse 25 that is real easy to read past as just a sign off, but it is much more.
Finishing the epistle of Jude with the last two verses (24 and 25) we are looking at how Jesus is able to keep us from stumbling and present us faultless! What a way to finish out this great letter! It looks like the last time we covered Jude in 2006 I didn't spend much time on these verses, but we will make up for that tonight as they receive our full focus. How does Jesus keep us from stumbling (and the Greek sheds a lot of light here) and then present us faultless? We will finish up with something in verse 25 that is real easy to read past as just a sign off, but it is much more.
Jude has exhorted the reader to contend for the faith, but so far he has only instructed in what we are contending against. Now he finishes the letter showing how we are to contend, and this is broken down into four aspects. The first two we take on in this midweek service. Are you prepared to contend for the faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ?
Jude has exhorted the reader to contend for the faith, but so far he has only instructed in what we are contending against. Now he finishes the letter showing how we are to contend, and this is broken down into four aspects. The first two we take on in this midweek service. Are you prepared to contend for the faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ?
In this midweek service, we see another pattern of three, as three attributes demonstrate the heart and intent of these false teachers and there is an interaction with the three. A phrase used here "great swelling words" may surprise you in its history.
In this midweek service, we see another pattern of three, as three attributes demonstrate the heart and intent of these false teachers and there is an interaction with the three. A phrase used here "great swelling words" may surprise you in its history.
How could a prophecy given over 5,000 years ago, have application in the days of Jude when it's target is still future? Since we were looking at prophets and their prophecies on Sunday, it may be good to look more in depth about this particular prophecy. We may only get as far as verses 14-15, but I have also prepared for up to verse 19.
There is a difference between speaking the words God gave and speaking their interpretation. Jude uses this prophecy of Enoch's as to speaking against those who had crept into the church to cause harm. Is this a right application of a prophecy given so long ago? Is the word given by Enoch speaking against the ungodly of his day, the days of the early church (Jude's day) or the end times?
How could a prophecy given over 5,000 years ago, have application in the days of Jude when it's target is still future? Since we were looking at prophets and their prophecies on Sunday, it may be good to look more in depth about this particular prophecy. We may only get as far as verses 14-15, but I have also prepared for up to verse 19.
There is a difference between speaking the words God gave and speaking their interpretation. Jude uses this prophecy of Enoch's as to speaking against those who had crept into the church to cause harm. Is this a right application of a prophecy given so long ago? Is the word given by Enoch speaking against the ungodly of his day, the days of the early church (Jude's day) or the end times?
Jude has been describing these false teachers and making comparisons of them to some very deplorable examples, so why now call them “spots” as it would seem that he sees them as something much more harmful and even dangerous? We also get another list to compare these to; waterless clouds, fruitless trees, raging waves, and wondering stars. We will look at what Jude is saying about these false teachers in these comparisons.
Jude has been describing these false teachers and making comparisons of them to some very deplorable examples, so why now call them “spots” as it would seem that he sees them as something much more harmful and even dangerous? We also get another list to compare these to; waterless clouds, fruitless trees, raging waves, and wondering stars. We will look at what Jude is saying about these false teachers in these comparisons.
After speaking about an incident between the devil and the Archangel Michael (last Wednesday) we get to the heart of the comparison in these verses. Why would people be drawn to the evil speaking, contentions, rejection of authority and such that Jude refers to here? Have you ever been pulled in by it or know someone who has? We look into this, it's dangers, how to spot it, and stay out or get away from it.
After speaking about an incident between the devil and the Archangel Michael (last Wednesday) we get to the heart of the comparison in these verses. Why would people be drawn to the evil speaking, contentions, rejection of authority and such that Jude refers to here? Have you ever been pulled in by it or know someone who has? We look into this, it's dangers, how to spot it, and stay out or get away from it.
In tonight's midweek service, we are covering Jude 1:8-9 and Michael the Archangel's battle with the devil is discussed, we will look at questions about these two. Was the devil an archangel? Did Michael replace some of his duties after the fall? Why was this battle over the body of Moses important?
In tonight's midweek service, we are covering Jude 1:8-9 and Michael the Archangel's battle with the devil is discussed, we will look at questions about these two. Was the devil an archangel? Did Michael replace some of his duties after the fall? Why was this battle over the body of Moses important?
Jude refers us to three cases in the past (Israel in the wilderness, fallen angels, and gentiles in sinful cities) and though they are completely different groups, they all had some things in common and were judged for it. Jude wants us to know these things they had in common to make sure that we stay away from such things and that we can recognize those that follow in their ways. Though they may be among believers, these things will tell you they are not what they seem.
Jude refers us to three cases in the past (Israel in the wilderness, fallen angels, and gentiles in sinful cities) and though they are completely different groups, they all had some things in common and were judged for it. Jude wants us to know these things they had in common to make sure that we stay away from such things and that we can recognize those that follow in their ways. Though they may be among believers, these things will tell you they are not what they seem.
Jude describes the entrance of those who do not wish to help the body of Christ, but desire to bring it harm. In tonight's second lesson from Jude we will look at the overall flow of the book and an in depth look at how these people take aim to destroy the church from within. Jude exhorts us to contend earnestly for the faith, not just compromise to get along for the sake of Christian unity as many today claim.
Jude describes the entrance of those who do not wish to help the body of Christ, but desire to bring it harm. In tonight's second lesson from Jude we will look at the overall flow of the book and an in depth look at how these people take aim to destroy the church from within. Jude exhorts us to contend earnestly for the faith, not just compromise to get along for the sake of Christian unity as many today claim.
What do we expect God to preserve us from? As we begin our series on Jude tonight verse one tells us we are preserved, so what are we preserved from? We will look at a number of situations and weather they fit in the context of what is in mind here so we can get our expectations lined up with what we are promised.
What do we expect God to preserve us from? As we begin our series on Jude tonight verse one tells us we are preserved, so what are we preserved from? We will look at a number of situations and weather they fit in the context of what is in mind here so we can get our expectations lined up with what we are promised.
In this service we will be looking at the big picture in Ezekiel. As we have spent almost 50 weeks looking at the picture from each chapter, tonight we will see how those chapters fit together, as well as reminding us of the applications from these prophetic messages. This is the first part (chapters 18-24)
In this service we will be looking at the big picture in Ezekiel. As we have spent almost 50 weeks looking at the picture from each chapter, tonight we will see how those chapters fit together, as well as reminding us of the applications from these prophetic messages. This is the first part (chapters 18-24)
In this service we will be looking at the big picture in Ezekiel. As we have spent almost 50 weeks looking at the picture from each chapter, tonight we will see how those chapters fit together, as well as reminding us of the applications from these prophetic messages. This is the first part (chapters 11-17)
In this service we will be looking at the big picture in Ezekiel. As we have spent almost 50 weeks looking at the picture from each chapter, tonight we will see how those chapters fit together, as well as reminding us of the applications from these prophetic messages. This is the first part (chapters 11-17)
In this service we will be looking at the big picture in Ezekiel. As we have spent almost 50 weeks looking at the picture from each chapter, tonight we will see how those chapters fit together, as well as reminding us of the applications from these prophetic messages. This is the first part (chapters 1-9)
In this service we will be looking at the big picture in Ezekiel. As we have spent almost 50 weeks looking at the picture from each chapter, tonight we will see how those chapters fit together, as well as reminding us of the applications from these prophetic messages. This is the first part (chapters 1-9)
n Genesis God said to Abraham "To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates." In Joshua we read that the promise was fulfilled, yet they didn't go as far as the River Euphrates. Is the Promised Land different from the land given? This just might be a more interesting question than it seems on the surface!
n Genesis God said to Abraham "To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates." In Joshua we read that the promise was fulfilled, yet they didn't go as far as the River Euphrates. Is the Promised Land different from the land given? This just might be a more interesting question than it seems on the surface!
In Ezekiel 47 we see at the river of healing waters that Ezekiel describes as flowing from the temple. Is this the same river as in Revelation 22? What is the significance of these waters? There is a lot in these verses (1-12) that don't jump out at you right away, but hopefully they will!
In Ezekiel 47 we see at the river of healing waters that Ezekiel describes as flowing from the temple. Is this the same river as in Revelation 22? What is the significance of these waters? There is a lot in these verses (1-12) that don't jump out at you right away, but hopefully they will!
What would you do as a ruler in the land of Israel when the law of Moses gives you specific instructions on what to sacrifice, then a prophet of God has a word over 860 years later and changes those instructions. This part of the word to Ezekiel changes some of the regular sacrifices, so I have to ask why? In some cases more was required and in others less. The application of a passage is always of great importance to me. This one took me a long time to get a picture of. Stay with this to the end and I do hope you find it beneficial for your life.
Also, we had a question sometime back about garments and I think we will have time to visit that here in this chapter.
What would you do as a ruler in the land of Israel when the law of Moses gives you specific instructions on what to sacrifice, then a prophet of God has a word over 860 years later and changes those instructions. This part of the word to Ezekiel changes some of the regular sacrifices, so I have to ask why? In some cases more was required and in others less. The application of a passage is always of great importance to me. This one took me a long time to get a picture of. Stay with this to the end and I do hope you find it beneficial for your life.
Also, we had a question sometime back about garments and I think we will have time to visit that here in this chapter.
Were the measurements in this chapter given in cubits or reeds? One would make the land area big, the other would make it HUGE! We also look at the prince and the princes, and finish with the listed feasts. There are only two here (or perhaps three) and they seem to be different from the ones listed in Leviticus. Lets see if we can determine why.
Were the measurements in this chapter given in cubits or reeds? One would make the land area big, the other would make it HUGE! We also look at the prince and the princes, and finish with the listed feasts. There are only two here (or perhaps three) and they seem to be different from the ones listed in Leviticus. Lets see if we can determine why.
We look at the prophecy given to Ezekiel concerning the East Gate, how it has been misunderstood, whole doctrines have been formed from these misunderstandings, and even altered the actions of nations. See what this chapter is looking at, how easy it was for people to understand, and how simple the truth actually is. How many of our own beliefs have been built on misunderstandings of God's word?
We look at the prophecy given to Ezekiel concerning the East Gate, how it has been misunderstood, whole doctrines have been formed from these misunderstandings, and even altered the actions of nations. See what this chapter is looking at, how easy it was for people to understand, and how simple the truth actually is. How many of our own beliefs have been built on misunderstandings of God's word?
In this service we will be looking at the 43rd chapter and the alter Ezekiel describes. How is this alter different from others and what is the significance of the dedication ceremony Ezekiel describes? The subject of Leviticus has come up in some informal discussions around church and we will be looking at a few of those seemingly boring chapters it contains. When we finish, I hope you will see the benefit of these chapters.
Also, we will jump over to the New Testament and look at a few narratives about Jesus including what happened after the cross and why Mary could not touch him until He ascended to the Father.
In this service we will be looking at the 43rd chapter and the alter Ezekiel describes. How is this alter different from others and what is the significance of the dedication ceremony Ezekiel describes? The subject of Leviticus has come up in some informal discussions around church and we will be looking at a few of those seemingly boring chapters it contains. When we finish, I hope you will see the benefit of these chapters.
Also, we will jump over to the New Testament and look at a few narratives about Jesus including what happened after the cross and why Mary could not touch him until He ascended to the Father.
Do you know where the first Temple was built? How about where the second one was built? It may not have been built where you think and we will examine evidence for where the first two Temples were built, helping us determine where the third one will be built. Here is one more question ... why does the glory of God enter a temple set up for Old Testament worship?
Had to pull this from the Facebook recording so there is a bit of a hum.
Do you know where the first Temple was built? How about where the second one was built? It may not have been built where you think and we will examine evidence for where the first two Temples were built, helping us determine where the third one will be built. Here is one more question ... why does the glory of God enter a temple set up for Old Testament worship?
Had to pull this from the Facebook recording so there is a bit of a hum.
In this service we will be looking at Ezekiel's temple, comparing it to the previous ones, and getting an understanding of it's size and features. I have uploaded a number of pictures to Facebook that we will use as we go through Ezekiel's description, and a virtual tour we also viewed. You should be able to see them on the church Facebook page on date July 1, 2020. Keep a second window open to the church Facebook page and view them there.
In this service we will be looking at Ezekiel's temple, comparing it to the previous ones, and getting an understanding of it's size and features. I have uploaded a number of pictures to Facebook that we will use as we go through Ezekiel's description, and a virtual tour we also viewed. You should be able to see them on the church Facebook page on date July 1, 2020. Keep a second window open to the church Facebook page and view them there.
Is the temple described by Ezekiel a literal coming temple or a figurative prophecy of things to come? The next part of Ezekiel deals with the coming Temple, called the third temple. We will just be introducing the coming chapters and looking at how we should understand it. Should we look for a literal temple that will be built or something else. I spent a good bit of time reading on both of these ways to view the coming chapters and will give you what I have gleaned and the conclusions I think are hard to move off of.
Is the temple described by Ezekiel a literal coming temple or a figurative prophecy of things to come? The next part of Ezekiel deals with the coming Temple, called the third temple. We will just be introducing the coming chapters and looking at how we should understand it. Should we look for a literal temple that will be built or something else. I spent a good bit of time reading on both of these ways to view the coming chapters and will give you what I have gleaned and the conclusions I think are hard to move off of.
The nations gather against Israel, but not all nations. Some we saw sit on the sidelines, but the end of those who do go to war will be in a dramatic display of God's power. See how this all unfolds (as best as we can tell from our vantage point) and what happens to Israel and the other nations of the world.
The nations gather against Israel, but not all nations. Some we saw sit on the sidelines, but the end of those who do go to war will be in a dramatic display of God's power. See how this all unfolds (as best as we can tell from our vantage point) and what happens to Israel and the other nations of the world.
Who are the nations that come against Israel in the end times battle that Ezekiel speaks of in chapters 38-39? Understanding the makeup of nations gives us great insight into the time before it. We've taken this on a few times over the years and every time I set out to study it like I never studied it before looking to gain more knowledge and understanding on this passage and all it is preparing us for.
Who are the nations that come against Israel in the end times battle that Ezekiel speaks of in chapters 38-39? Understanding the makeup of nations gives us great insight into the time before it. We've taken this on a few times over the years and every time I set out to study it like I never studied it before looking to gain more knowledge and understanding on this passage and all it is preparing us for.
You may have described conversations with some people in your life like talking to a wall. They don’t receive anything you say and though they may respond to your words, it’s like they didn’t even hear them. You may run away from these conversations thinking “I am not in the mood to deal with them” or some such thought. Well, how would you like to be told to speak to dry bones? That’s what God told Ezekiel to do. What causes people to become like these dry bones and is it possible for them to recover like these bones did as they heard the prophecy? As I was studying this passage today I asked the Lord how can I know if I myself have become hardened to hear the truth on a matter, as most of us have in one area of doctrine or another. I loved the answer, but you won’t find it in tonight’s outline; you will need extra paper for that.
You may have described conversations with some people in your life like talking to a wall. They don’t receive anything you say and though they may respond to your words, it’s like they didn’t even hear them. You may run away from these conversations thinking “I am not in the mood to deal with them” or some such thought. Well, how would you like to be told to speak to dry bones? That’s what God told Ezekiel to do. What causes people to become like these dry bones and is it possible for them to recover like these bones did as they heard the prophecy? As I was studying this passage today I asked the Lord how can I know if I myself have become hardened to hear the truth on a matter, as most of us have in one area of doctrine or another. I loved the answer, but you won’t find it in tonight’s outline; you will need extra paper for that.
What are the "ancient heights" that the Israelites had, but lost to Edom? The Edomites are thrilled to have them so they must have great value. We will look at them and their application to today, as we take on Ezekiel 36. Some familiar verses including the one in the attached picture about a new heart, as God makes a number of predictions in His promise to restore Israel.
What are the "ancient heights" that the Israelites had, but lost to Edom? The Edomites are thrilled to have them so they must have great value. We will look at them and their application to today, as we take on Ezekiel 36. Some familiar verses including the one in the attached picture about a new heart, as God makes a number of predictions in His promise to restore Israel.
Is ancient hate still around today and can it possibly be at home in the lives of believers? God says that Mount Seir (Edom) would be judged and made desolate. There are several prophecies against Edom in the Word of God and reasons given, but here in Ezekiel 35 two are sited. The first is ancient hatred (Vs. 5) and we will look at what this is, how it continues, and the result it brings into the lives of those who harbor it.
The second (Vs. 10) may not jump out at you for it's New Testament application, but it will after you see it! We will also see how far the world can go in speaking against you.
Is ancient hate still around today and can it possibly be at home in the lives of believers? God says that Mount Seir (Edom) would be judged and made desolate. There are several prophecies against Edom in the Word of God and reasons given, but here in Ezekiel 35 two are sited. The first is ancient hatred (Vs. 5) and we will look at what this is, how it continues, and the result it brings into the lives of those who harbor it.
The second (Vs. 10) may not jump out at you for it's New Testament application, but it will after you see it! We will also see how far the world can go in speaking against you.
Here we have a prophecy against the shepherds of Judah. Last week in Ch. 33 the watchmen were the topic who are easily identified with the prophets. We might want to identify the shepherds with a pastor, but that is a church age ministry, not one in Old Testament times. So here in chapter 34, who are the shepherds?
Here we have a prophecy against the shepherds of Judah. Last week in Ch. 33 the watchmen were the topic who are easily identified with the prophets. We might want to identify the shepherds with a pastor, but that is a church age ministry, not one in Old Testament times. So here in chapter 34, who are the shepherds?
Known as "The Watchman" chapter, Ezekiel 33 tells us three reasons why people do not heed the warning of a watchman or a prophet. One of those reasons we've used since we were little children; it's not fair! Learn how this and two other reasons are still is used today as reasons not to listen to the warnings given by God's word and His watchmen. God in this word counters each reason with truth that will speak to us.
Known as "The Watchman" chapter, Ezekiel 33 tells us three reasons why people do not heed the warning of a watchman or a prophet. One of those reasons we've used since we were little children; it's not fair! Learn how this and two other reasons are still is used today as reasons not to listen to the warnings given by God's word and His watchmen. God in this word counters each reason with truth that will speak to us.
Terror comes upon the nations because of what happens to Egypt. This same terror can come upon anyone (believer or unbeliever) when the conditions for it exist. We will look at what these conditions are, how they work into our lives, and the ways we can prevent it.
Terror comes upon the nations because of what happens to Egypt. This same terror can come upon anyone (believer or unbeliever) when the conditions for it exist. We will look at what these conditions are, how they work into our lives, and the ways we can prevent it.
How easy it is to fall into comparing our walk to those we consider to be less than ourselves in qualifications, yet they possess more in quantification. Basically, why is someone I see not doing as well spiritually, walking in more blessings than I do? In this chapter God compares Egypt to a great tree and to a strong kingdom in Assyria, and does He really compare Egypt to the trees of Eden? We will see tonight as well as what we can learn from all this comparison.
How easy it is to fall into comparing our walk to those we consider to be less than ourselves in qualifications, yet they possess more in quantification. Basically, why is someone I see not doing as well spiritually, walking in more blessings than I do? In this chapter God compares Egypt to a great tree and to a strong kingdom in Assyria, and does He really compare Egypt to the trees of Eden? We will see tonight as well as what we can learn from all this comparison.
There is much in this chapter on the allies of Egypt and the fear and anguish that would come upon them as Egypt falls, so naturally I asked why is this important for us to know? The answer and application is so relevant in any day, not just ours. Is it possible that something like an Egypt has taken root in your life and a dependancy formed? Egypts are not just evil things, as some may appear quite good, but we will see from the word of God and examples in it of just what makes an Egypt, along with the consequences as a believer to allow any dependency on them.
There is much in this chapter on the allies of Egypt and the fear and anguish that would come upon them as Egypt falls, so naturally I asked why is this important for us to know? The answer and application is so relevant in any day, not just ours. Is it possible that something like an Egypt has taken root in your life and a dependancy formed? Egypts are not just evil things, as some may appear quite good, but we will see from the word of God and examples in it of just what makes an Egypt, along with the consequences as a believer to allow any dependency on them.
It seemed From Abraham to the last days of Judah there was always a draw back to Egypt. Well, that all changes now! Are there things you seem drawn to that aren't good or helpful for you? Learn how it can all end!
It seemed From Abraham to the last days of Judah there was always a draw back to Egypt. Well, that all changes now! Are there things you seem drawn to that aren't good or helpful for you? Learn how it can all end!
We are in Ezekiel 28 which breaks down to 3 prophecies. The first one deals with a prideful man, the king of Tyre who thinks he is a god. Jehovah puts him in his place and calls him a mere man.
But then the second prophecy is very different, attributing attributes and actions not possible of a mere man. What does this prophecy mean? We will be looking at other passages to help us understand this better.
We don't get to the third prophecy about Sidon, but we will answer this question. The people of Tyre were judged for the same prideful attitude that was in their king. This has happened many times in history (we will look at a few). How do negative traits of leaders get passed down to others and what can be done to guard against it?
We are in Ezekiel 28 which breaks down to 3 prophecies. The first one deals with a prideful man, the king of Tyre who thinks he is a god. Jehovah puts him in his place and calls him a mere man.
But then the second prophecy is very different, attributing attributes and actions not possible of a mere man. What does this prophecy mean? We will be looking at other passages to help us understand this better.
We don't get to the third prophecy about Sidon, but we will answer this question. The people of Tyre were judged for the same prideful attitude that was in their king. This has happened many times in history (we will look at a few). How do negative traits of leaders get passed down to others and what can be done to guard against it?
Why does God give a word of prophecy to Ezekiel to tell how much the heathen nations will miss Tyre when it is gone? I read, reread, and pondered over the words all this week to get an understanding on why this chapter exist. We start off with a favorite story of mine about Alexander and the fall of Tyre that I left off last week.
Why does God give a word of prophecy to Ezekiel to tell how much the heathen nations will miss Tyre when it is gone? I read, reread, and pondered over the words all this week to get an understanding on why this chapter exist. We start off with a favorite story of mine about Alexander and the fall of Tyre that I left off last week.
Here is a look at one of the most amazing prophecies of the Bible; the word given to Ezekiel about the city of Tyre. Find out the incredible details of the prophecy and why it took a mature prophet like Ezekiel for God to be able to entrust it to.
Here is a look at one of the most amazing prophecies of the Bible; the word given to Ezekiel about the city of Tyre. Find out the incredible details of the prophecy and why it took a mature prophet like Ezekiel for God to be able to entrust it to.
As we look into this prophecy of Ezekiel, you will come out with a greater understanding of the Pharisees, Sadducees, Herod, the Sanhedrin, the layout of the land in Israel during the time of Jesus, and the trial before the crucifixion.
As we look into this prophecy of Ezekiel, you will come out with a greater understanding of the Pharisees, Sadducees, Herod, the Sanhedrin, the layout of the land in Israel during the time of Jesus, and the trial before the crucifixion.
In the prophecies given to Ezekiel in Chapter 25, the first two are against those who mock God’s chosen people. Two different reasons for two different nations, but judgement comes to these. Find out what they did and how God dealt with them. God may be angry with Israel and Judah, but theat doesn’t mean anyone can mock them!
In the prophecies given to Ezekiel in Chapter 25, the first two are against those who mock God’s chosen people. Two different reasons for two different nations, but judgement comes to these. Find out what they did and how God dealt with them. God may be angry with Israel and Judah, but theat doesn’t mean anyone can mock them!
The word of God that comes to Ezekiel tells him of an event that began on this day. He is to write it down so that people will know that God gave him the words he speaks. Ezekiel is also called upon to not mourn as his wife is about to die. Find out what all this means for us!
The word of God that comes to Ezekiel tells him of an event that began on this day. He is to write it down so that people will know that God gave him the words he speaks. Ezekiel is also called upon to not mourn as his wife is about to die. Find out what all this means for us!
There are two attitudinal sins in Ezekiel 23. These two bad attitudes were at the root of all the others sins listed. The first one is pretty obvious and it is Unfaithfulness. God spends a lot of time spotlighting this attitude! Can you find the second one? Both of these sins are more involved the lives of believers today than we would care to admit! How do we recognize them, and more importantly how do we correct these attitudes are both our topic tonight!
There are two attitudinal sins in Ezekiel 23. These two bad attitudes were at the root of all the others sins listed. The first one is pretty obvious and it is Unfaithfulness. God spends a lot of time spotlighting this attitude! Can you find the second one? Both of these sins are more involved the lives of believers today than we would care to admit! How do we recognize them, and more importantly how do we correct these attitudes are both our topic tonight!
The prophecy in Ezekiel 22 goes from what had been a general pointing out of sin, to spotlighting very specific acts of sin. It also shows that the root of the loss of morality is in the loss of faith. We will spend some time looking at this concept throughout the Old Testament and how any nation or individual can find itself on the same path Judah is on.
The prophecy in Ezekiel 22 goes from what had been a general pointing out of sin, to spotlighting very specific acts of sin. It also shows that the root of the loss of morality is in the loss of faith. We will spend some time looking at this concept throughout the Old Testament and how any nation or individual can find itself on the same path Judah is on.
Be careful what you ask for! At the end of the last chapter Israel seemed to think less of Ezekiel's words from God as they were in parables and such figurative language. So now that get as direct a word as you could have in Ezekiel Chapter 21.
Be careful what you ask for! At the end of the last chapter Israel seemed to think less of Ezekiel's words from God as they were in parables and such figurative language. So now that get as direct a word as you could have in Ezekiel Chapter 21.
Have you ever had an opinion about a matter contrary to what you understand God’s word to be (spoken or written), and then hear or see something that seems to indicate you were correct? Maybe down in your spirit you knew not to get a thing you really liked or wanted, so you went and got it anyway. Then something happens and wow does it look like you were right in getting the thing (new car, house, job, etc.) So, how do you approach this? Is it maybe I miss understood what was in my spirit? Certainly God wasn’t wrong, was He?
Well, in this lesson on Ezekiel 20 we will see something very similar going on but it won’t jump out at you. This is one of those times when what is going on in the time frame of the prophecy directly impacts our understanding of it. This setting is well known to all involved in chapter 20, but not to the reader as it’s never mentioned. We will go over it all in this Midweek service and it will have a great impact in your own life as you follow after the words of God.
Have you ever had an opinion about a matter contrary to what you understand God’s word to be (spoken or written), and then hear or see something that seems to indicate you were correct? Maybe down in your spirit you knew not to get a thing you really liked or wanted, so you went and got it anyway. Then something happens and wow does it look like you were right in getting the thing (new car, house, job, etc.) So, how do you approach this? Is it maybe I miss understood what was in my spirit? Certainly God wasn’t wrong, was He?
Well, in this lesson on Ezekiel 20 we will see something very similar going on but it won’t jump out at you. This is one of those times when what is going on in the time frame of the prophecy directly impacts our understanding of it. This setting is well known to all involved in chapter 20, but not to the reader as it’s never mentioned. We will go over it all in this Midweek service and it will have a great impact in your own life as you follow after the words of God.
In these two allegories of the young lions and the vine & branches, we have the royal line of David shown. The ending state is a vine that has no branches left with strength to rule. We don't just rule as Christians because of our position; our strength has something to do with it as well and we see 5 things they did that took this strength away, and it will also take ours as well.
In these two allegories of the young lions and the vine & branches, we have the royal line of David shown. The ending state is a vine that has no branches left with strength to rule. We don't just rule as Christians because of our position; our strength has something to do with it as well and we see 5 things they did that took this strength away, and it will also take ours as well.
Should the guilt of past sins our parents, or other family members have done, follow us? It would seem that the answer should be no, but how many times in the prophets does God refer back to what sins and idiolatry Israel and Judah had done under previous kings? The people do accuse God of being unfair (Ezekiel 18:25) and the thinking is so prevalent that both Ezekiel and Jeremiah deal with it. How did this opinion of the past and of God’s unfairness come about, what gave it merit, and where is it today?
Should the guilt of past sins our parents, or other family members have done, follow us? It would seem that the answer should be no, but how many times in the prophets does God refer back to what sins and idiolatry Israel and Judah had done under previous kings? The people do accuse God of being unfair (Ezekiel 18:25) and the thinking is so prevalent that both Ezekiel and Jeremiah deal with it. How did this opinion of the past and of God’s unfairness come about, what gave it merit, and where is it today?
In Ezekiel 17 we have a riddle given in the prophecy and one that seems to indicate that some of the things that have already happened to Judah were not in God's plan. Find out what they are and how that matters to us.
In Ezekiel 17 we have a riddle given in the prophecy and one that seems to indicate that some of the things that have already happened to Judah were not in God's plan. Find out what they are and how that matters to us.
We begin a new series on Boundaries. I referred to this before as something I remain very conscious of in my prayers and spiritual walk, but don’t recall teaching it much, so we endeavor to change that. Going against this principle has caused many to stray from the will of God and even pray for things that will not come about, leading to weak or even "shipwrecked" faith. The enemy is constantly working this principle against you, but you can turn it around and have it work for you.
We begin a new series on Boundaries. I referred to this before as something I remain very conscious of in my prayers and spiritual walk, but don’t recall teaching it much, so we endeavor to change that. Going against this principle has caused many to stray from the will of God and even pray for things that will not come about, leading to weak or even "shipwrecked" faith. The enemy is constantly working this principle against you, but you can turn it around and have it work for you.
This part of Ezekiel's prophecy is probably the most avoided of all prophecies. There was even an age requirement among the Jewish people for this prophecy to be read. The most difficult part of this word given to Ezekiel is the part of the sisters of Jerusalem called Samaria and Sodom. Toward the end of the prophecy it speaks of the restoration of all three. Is Sodom going to be restored? What relationship does it have with Jerusalem? Why is Samaria (built much later than Jerusalem) called the older sister?
This part of Ezekiel's prophecy is probably the most avoided of all prophecies. There was even an age requirement among the Jewish people for this prophecy to be read. The most difficult part of this word given to Ezekiel is the part of the sisters of Jerusalem called Samaria and Sodom. Toward the end of the prophecy it speaks of the restoration of all three. Is Sodom going to be restored? What relationship does it have with Jerusalem? Why is Samaria (built much later than Jerusalem) called the older sister?
What is a vine good for except for giving fruit? It's wood is useless and there is nothing else beneficial it can do but give it's fruit. The prophet Ezekiel is given a parable about a fruitless vine in this shortest chapter in Ezekiel ... chapter 15 is only 8 verses long. It is followed by the longest chapter, in fact the 16th chapter is longer than some minor prophets entire writing. But in this 16th chapter we learn of what has happened to this unfruitful vine from the time it was found by God.
What is a vine good for except for giving fruit? It's wood is useless and there is nothing else beneficial it can do but give it's fruit. The prophet Ezekiel is given a parable about a fruitless vine in this shortest chapter in Ezekiel ... chapter 15 is only 8 verses long. It is followed by the longest chapter, in fact the 16th chapter is longer than some minor prophets entire writing. But in this 16th chapter we learn of what has happened to this unfruitful vine from the time it was found by God.
In Ezekiel 14 God asks "Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by these men?” How can what we ask of God become limited? Would God ever not listen to us? What would we have to do to get God to ask this question of us?
In Ezekiel 14 God asks "Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by these men?” How can what we ask of God become limited? Would God ever not listen to us? What would we have to do to get God to ask this question of us?
A word against those who prophesy falsely is given to Ezekiel in this chapter (13), calling them foolish and speaking nonsense. They are seen by God as those who are "hunting souls." There are those who speak falsely today, representing their words as words from God, but God has not sent them. Recognizing them is the same as it was in Ezekiel's day and we look at how to tell true messengers from false ones.
A word against those who prophesy falsely is given to Ezekiel in this chapter (13), calling them foolish and speaking nonsense. They are seen by God as those who are "hunting souls." There are those who speak falsely today, representing their words as words from God, but God has not sent them. Recognizing them is the same as it was in Ezekiel's day and we look at how to tell true messengers from false ones.
Why does God give Ezekiel a word of prophesy with a demonstration about the inhabitants of Jerusalem going into captivity? The people he is speaking to are already in captivity and will not return to Jerusalem. They even say “What are you doing?” in verse 12:8. Find out what God is doing and it's meaning for us today as we study together in this midweek service.
Why does God give Ezekiel a word of prophesy with a demonstration about the inhabitants of Jerusalem going into captivity? The people he is speaking to are already in captivity and will not return to Jerusalem. They even say “What are you doing?” in verse 12:8. Find out what God is doing and it's meaning for us today as we study together in this midweek service.
f you receive a prophetic word from multiple people who have no connection to each other, but each gave similar counsel, even using the same words or phrases is it a signature that these messages are from God? Don't just think you know the answer, but know for sure from God's word as we look at Ezekiel 11.
f you receive a prophetic word from multiple people who have no connection to each other, but each gave similar counsel, even using the same words or phrases is it a signature that these messages are from God? Don't just think you know the answer, but know for sure from God's word as we look at Ezekiel 11.
When you look out at the ungodliness and injustice in the world, what do you feel? Did you know that what you feel when you look on these things tells God something about you? Come out tonight (or tune in via Facebook Live) to find out what your feelings tell God about you. We take on Ezekiel 9 and 10, and there is more to discover beside this truth, like will the righteous ever suffer with the unrighteous?
When you look out at the ungodliness and injustice in the world, what do you feel? Did you know that what you feel when you look on these things tells God something about you? Come out tonight (or tune in via Facebook Live) to find out what your feelings tell God about you. We take on Ezekiel 9 and 10, and there is more to discover beside this truth, like will the righteous ever suffer with the unrighteous?
There are some things you are just not to mix, and here in the 8th chapter of Ezekiel, we see God has given the word about not mixing pagan things with Godly things, but Israel did not listen. Now they reap the results! But this isn’t the only time this has happened!
There are some things you are just not to mix, and here in the 8th chapter of Ezekiel, we see God has given the word about not mixing pagan things with Godly things, but Israel did not listen. Now they reap the results! But this isn’t the only time this has happened!
Another chapter in Ezekiel where there is so much that relates to our current day. We are going to look at how the enemy of our faith encourages us to leave the safe places God has told us of, to go after the unsafe ones where he can destroy us. Why do so many keep falling for this? Because we forget or never learn the lessons in chapters like Ezekiel 7.
Another chapter in Ezekiel where there is so much that relates to our current day. We are going to look at how the enemy of our faith encourages us to leave the safe places God has told us of, to go after the unsafe ones where he can destroy us. Why do so many keep falling for this? Because we forget or never learn the lessons in chapters like Ezekiel 7.
The enemy is a master at deception and compromise. If he can't get you with deception he will try compromise and it works its way in as just a thing of convenience at first, giving you opportunity to do a good thing more often. But compromise weakens us and God knows this which is why he warned Israel, specifically warning them against going after some specific compromises. Well, Israel didn't listen and in this lesson we show you how this compromise worked it's way in until it became pure idiolatry.
The enemy is a master at deception and compromise. If he can't get you with deception he will try compromise and it works its way in as just a thing of convenience at first, giving you opportunity to do a good thing more often. But compromise weakens us and God knows this which is why he warned Israel, specifically warning them against going after some specific compromises. Well, Israel didn't listen and in this lesson we show you how this compromise worked it's way in until it became pure idiolatry.
Today with the ultra grace gospel so popular, teaching that Jesus died for all so all must be saved, portraying a God who is all love and no judgement, Ezekiel's message is a big contrast! Through demonstration God through Ezekiel gives a message of a coming judgment on His people, Israel! If God is able to judge His own special people, how much more can and will He judge the world!
Today with the ultra grace gospel so popular, teaching that Jesus died for all so all must be saved, portraying a God who is all love and no judgement, Ezekiel's message is a big contrast! Through demonstration God through Ezekiel gives a message of a coming judgment on His people, Israel! If God is able to judge His own special people, how much more can and will He judge the world!
Ezekiel is told very firmly to speak the words of God to rebellious people who will not listen or heed the words spoken. He is given a very stern warning of what would happen if he doesn’t speak these words. How can we be sure that the words we speak are the words of God and is there a penalty on us for not doing so as there was with Ezekiel?
Ezekiel is told very firmly to speak the words of God to rebellious people who will not listen or heed the words spoken. He is given a very stern warning of what would happen if he doesn’t speak these words. How can we be sure that the words we speak are the words of God and is there a penalty on us for not doing so as there was with Ezekiel?
What is happening in the present day always has roots in what has happened in the past. It is no different today or in the days of Ezekiel, so we spend some time to see what led up to these prophecies and what the children of Israel have done against God up until this time. Then we take on the four living creatures. In the end we are going to see that our God is more awesome than we can even imagine He is!
What is happening in the present day always has roots in what has happened in the past. It is no different today or in the days of Ezekiel, so we spend some time to see what led up to these prophecies and what the children of Israel have done against God up until this time. Then we take on the four living creatures. In the end we are going to see that our God is more awesome than we can even imagine He is!
Who was Ezekiel and what was the ministry God called him to? As we begin this new series on the book of Ezekiel who had many tough messages to deliver to the remnant of the children of Israel in captivity. The days of Ezekiel as it turns out were very similar in some ways to today.
There were prophets "of God" who said very contrary things to the words that Ezekiel and Jeremiah spoke and people became confused. Some sided on the non God side thinking they were believing the words of God. Others became completely turned off to all prophecies. How did the word of God continue in this environment and so much more as we introduce the days of Ezekiel the prophet.
Who was Ezekiel and what was the ministry God called him to? As we begin this new series on the book of Ezekiel who had many tough messages to deliver to the remnant of the children of Israel in captivity. The days of Ezekiel as it turns out were very similar in some ways to today.
There were prophets "of God" who said very contrary things to the words that Ezekiel and Jeremiah spoke and people became confused. Some sided on the non God side thinking they were believing the words of God. Others became completely turned off to all prophecies. How did the word of God continue in this environment and so much more as we introduce the days of Ezekiel the prophet.
In this midweek service we are looking at 2 Timothy 3:1-3 and breaking down a few words in this passage to give us a good idea of what is happening around us in what the Bible calls the "last days." Paul gives us signs to look for in the attitudes of men and when you see what he means by the words he uses, you will understand much more the events of today.
In this midweek service we are looking at 2 Timothy 3:1-3 and breaking down a few words in this passage to give us a good idea of what is happening around us in what the Bible calls the "last days." Paul gives us signs to look for in the attitudes of men and when you see what he means by the words he uses, you will understand much more the events of today.
Who do you associate with? In tonight's word study we are looking at a verse in Romans (Ch.12, Vs. 16) and study several words to get the full meaning of this verse. It seems that we should hang out with poor people over rich and people of low esteem, but this verse has great meaning that many translators had difficulty putting into the English.
Who do you associate with? In tonight's word study we are looking at a verse in Romans (Ch.12, Vs. 16) and study several words to get the full meaning of this verse. It seems that we should hang out with poor people over rich and people of low esteem, but this verse has great meaning that many translators had difficulty putting into the English.
In tonight's word study we will be looking at how to study a word that is used many, many times, in fact the word we study tonight is used about 350 times in the New Testament! How do you get a feel for the word when it is used so many times?
Now, the word we are going to study is the Greek word "polus" and it means MANY. How appropriate right! We are going to use it’s meaning to help us better understand two passages with a similar message. One in Romans 12:4-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
In tonight's word study we will be looking at how to study a word that is used many, many times, in fact the word we study tonight is used about 350 times in the New Testament! How do you get a feel for the word when it is used so many times?
Now, the word we are going to study is the Greek word "polus" and it means MANY. How appropriate right! We are going to use it’s meaning to help us better understand two passages with a similar message. One in Romans 12:4-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
The word diligence is used often in the word of God and tonight we are going to look at one particular word in the Greek that is translated diligent, zeal, earnestness, and so forth. What can we learn when we study this word out in scripture. Now this word has a noun form as well as a verb, adjective, and adverb so we can show you how to add this aspect to your word studies.
The word diligence is used often in the word of God and tonight we are going to look at one particular word in the Greek that is translated diligent, zeal, earnestness, and so forth. What can we learn when we study this word out in scripture. Now this word has a noun form as well as a verb, adjective, and adverb so we can show you how to add this aspect to your word studies.
Have you done word studies in the New Testament on your own? Do you know how they differ from other types of study? In tonight's Wednesday night service we will be doing a word study and at the same time showing you how to do one on your own. Many of the tools used you can now find on the internet so there is nothing to go out and buy.
The word we will be looking at is the word "nous" or the mind, understanding and is used in the verse in the attached picture. Knowing the specific Greek word used and it's meaning can very often help you understand the verse better.
Have you done word studies in the New Testament on your own? Do you know how they differ from other types of study? In tonight's Wednesday night service we will be doing a word study and at the same time showing you how to do one on your own. Many of the tools used you can now find on the internet so there is nothing to go out and buy.
The word we will be looking at is the word "nous" or the mind, understanding and is used in the verse in the attached picture. Knowing the specific Greek word used and it's meaning can very often help you understand the verse better.
There is much about the people you are praying for that should affect the way you pray for them. Many times we are affected by the wrong things in our prayers for others, but in these prayers of Jesus we will see what should influence our prayers as we pray for others. We finish our mini series tonight looking at two of the prayers that Jesus made on behalf of His disciples.
There is much about the people you are praying for that should affect the way you pray for them. Many times we are affected by the wrong things in our prayers for others, but in these prayers of Jesus we will see what should influence our prayers as we pray for others. We finish our mini series tonight looking at two of the prayers that Jesus made on behalf of His disciples.
What makes a prayer effective when we are praying for another believer? As I study this question in the word of God one thing jumps out; one particular characteristic than should be present whenever we pray for another believer. If you will do this one thing, your prayers for others will be both scriptural and effective. Without this characteristic your prayers for others will be on the opposite end of the spectrum and be both unscriptural and ineffective. What is this quality?
Well, I don’t just want to tell you, I want to show it to you in the scriptures. I wanted to spend a little more time looking at praying for other people and have been studying the prayers of Paul and Jesus for other people in the Bible. It took a little while to find the common trait but as we go through the word you will see it.
What makes a prayer effective when we are praying for another believer? As I study this question in the word of God one thing jumps out; one particular characteristic than should be present whenever we pray for another believer. If you will do this one thing, your prayers for others will be both scriptural and effective. Without this characteristic your prayers for others will be on the opposite end of the spectrum and be both unscriptural and ineffective. What is this quality?
Well, I don’t just want to tell you, I want to show it to you in the scriptures. I wanted to spend a little more time looking at praying for other people and have been studying the prayers of Paul and Jesus for other people in the Bible. It took a little while to find the common trait but as we go through the word you will see it.
Our thoughts are the best evidence of our spiritual state and actually originate within our heart. Have you allowed other heart-thoughts, about who you are to change your state? Come out tonight as we discuss if you are the one.
How do you pray for other Christians? Do you say something like "Oh God be with them" or "bless them" and how do you even know if those prayers are answered? Paul is the most common leader in the Bible to ask for prayer, but what can we rightfully pray for them? Tonight, we will look at this topic with some of the most common useless prayers (and what makes them useless) as well as what are some effective things to pray and what makes them effective, as we wrap up our series on the book of Hebrews.
How do you pray for other Christians? Do you say something like "Oh God be with them" or "bless them" and how do you even know if those prayers are answered? Paul is the most common leader in the Bible to ask for prayer, but what can we rightfully pray for them? Tonight, we will look at this topic with some of the most common useless prayers (and what makes them useless) as well as what are some effective things to pray and what makes them effective, as we wrap up our series on the book of Hebrews.
What is the purpose of corporate prayer? Does more people praying talk God into it? Maybe he needs to know we are interested? If "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much" (James 5:16) why do I need others to pray at all? What things need corporate prayer and what things don't? We look at 5 Examples of corporate prayer and what its intended purpose is.
What is the purpose of corporate prayer? Does more people praying talk God into it? Maybe he needs to know we are interested? If "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much" (James 5:16) why do I need others to pray at all? What things need corporate prayer and what things don't? We look at 5 Examples of corporate prayer and what its intended purpose is.
Are we not of this world or without a city? We could say both are true, but what does Hebrews have in mind in chapter 13 and verse 14? This verse is translated both ways, one with we are not of this world in mind, and the other “we have no continuing city.” So what is meant here and how does this determination make a difference in our Christian walk? We also look at verse 15 and the “sacrifice of praise,” and verse 17 “Obey those who have the rule over you.
Are we not of this world or without a city? We could say both are true, but what does Hebrews have in mind in chapter 13 and verse 14? This verse is translated both ways, one with we are not of this world in mind, and the other “we have no continuing city.” So what is meant here and how does this determination make a difference in our Christian walk? We also look at verse 15 and the “sacrifice of praise,” and verse 17 “Obey those who have the rule over you.
Have you ever wondered why we do what we do as Believers. This Wednesday/ today we'll take a look at what we do, then why we do it. Finally we'll find out, if what we do, has any benefit to us. Hope to see you there.
What things visible in the lives of leaders in the body of Christ would be considered profitable or of benefit to our spiritual growth? Have you given this thought before? Apparently it is good to know and in these 3 verses in Hebrews 13 (Vs. 7-9) the benefits are made known to us. Now, if you read these three verses over the flow may not jump out at you, but it is there. Once we see it, the ultimate goal of Verse 9 "that the heart be established by grace" will become established in you.
What things visible in the lives of leaders in the body of Christ would be considered profitable or of benefit to our spiritual growth? Have you given this thought before? Apparently it is good to know and in these 3 verses in Hebrews 13 (Vs. 7-9) the benefits are made known to us. Now, if you read these three verses over the flow may not jump out at you, but it is there. Once we see it, the ultimate goal of Verse 9 "that the heart be established by grace" will become established in you.
Have you ever entertained an angel? Well, Hebrews says that some have, but why would an angel need to be “entertained?” Can they not very quickly be back in heaven? Going back to Hebrews 12:1 running the race with endurance and laying aside every weight was the call, and now some of those weights are made specific. Areas such as brotherly love, entertaining of angels, remembering prisoners, marriage, and covetousness are taken on in the first 6 verses and of Hebrews 13.
Have you ever entertained an angel? Well, Hebrews says that some have, but why would an angel need to be “entertained?” Can they not very quickly be back in heaven? Going back to Hebrews 12:1 running the race with endurance and laying aside every weight was the call, and now some of those weights are made specific. Areas such as brotherly love, entertaining of angels, remembering prisoners, marriage, and covetousness are taken on in the first 6 verses and of Hebrews 13.
Why would anyone refuse the words of God? Well, we can see that many do, but what causes believers in Jesus to refuse to hear His voice? This word refuse is interesting and we look at what it means and how it is used to help us understand, so that we are not among those who refuse.
Why would anyone refuse the words of God? Well, we can see that many do, but what causes believers in Jesus to refuse to hear His voice? This word refuse is interesting and we look at what it means and how it is used to help us understand, so that we are not among those who refuse.
Hebrews compares Mount Sinai with Mount Zion for a purpose, and we will look at what that purpose is tonight. The comparison is that we as believers can either have a mount Sinai experience, or a Mount Zion one. Which would describe your Christian walk?
Hebrews compares Mount Sinai with Mount Zion for a purpose, and we will look at what that purpose is tonight. The comparison is that we as believers can either have a mount Sinai experience, or a Mount Zion one. Which would describe your Christian walk?
Esau is brought up as a comparison of a person who gave up what was eternal for what was now. He is called a "profane person" and we are encouraged not to become like him. So, we look at the birthright and the blessing, how they differ. and what each has to do with the other. Been spending a lot of time reading on this topic from the Jewish perspective and we go over it's significance.
Esau is brought up as a comparison of a person who gave up what was eternal for what was now. He is called a "profane person" and we are encouraged not to become like him. So, we look at the birthright and the blessing, how they differ. and what each has to do with the other. Been spending a lot of time reading on this topic from the Jewish perspective and we go over it's significance.
When Hebrews tells us to "strengthen the hands that hang down and the feeble knees" what are we being told to do? We know this verse well, but do we really know it's call to action?
When Hebrews tells us to "strengthen the hands that hang down and the feeble knees" what are we being told to do? We know this verse well, but do we really know it's call to action?
Is it the will of God for Christians to suffer? We divide suffering we receive as coming from four different sources covering the first two areas last Wednesday (the enemy or satan's kingdom, and from the curse of sin in sickness and disease.) Tonight we cover the last two - our flesh (including our own stupidity,) and suffering from other people, such as persecution. So, does God send suffering any of these to us? Does God merely allow it or does He send it to us directly? How does the Word of God teach us to respond to suffering that comes from these sources?
Is it the will of God for Christians to suffer? We divide suffering we receive as coming from four different sources covering the first two areas last Wednesday (the enemy or satan's kingdom, and from the curse of sin in sickness and disease.) Tonight we cover the last two - our flesh (including our own stupidity,) and suffering from other people, such as persecution. So, does God send suffering any of these to us? Does God merely allow it or does He send it to us directly? How does the Word of God teach us to respond to suffering that comes from these sources?
Is it the will of God for Christians to suffer? We divide suffering we receive as coming from four different sources; the enemy (satan's kingdom), from people, from the curse of sin, and finally our flesh (including our own stupidity.) So, does God send suffering to us from any of these sources? Does God send us suffering directly? How does the Word of God teach us to respond to suffering that comes from these sources?
Is it the will of God for Christians to suffer? We divide suffering we receive as coming from four different sources; the enemy (satan's kingdom), from people, from the curse of sin, and finally our flesh (including our own stupidity.) So, does God send suffering to us from any of these sources? Does God send us suffering directly? How does the Word of God teach us to respond to suffering that comes from these sources?
How can I know if something bad is a judgement from God or destruction from the enemy? Do you recall the conversation between God and Satan concerning Job in the book of Job Ch. 1 and 2? Did God make Job a target for Satan? If He did that, you might think He could make us a target too. What went on in this famous conversation and how is it consistent with the rest of what we know in scripture?
How can I know if something bad is a judgement from God or destruction from the enemy? Do you recall the conversation between God and Satan concerning Job in the book of Job Ch. 1 and 2? Did God make Job a target for Satan? If He did that, you might think He could make us a target too. What went on in this famous conversation and how is it consistent with the rest of what we know in scripture?
Can God deal with you as mature? That’s a question we look at in tonight’s midweek service. There are responses we have toward God that can put us in the “deal with as immature” category, and though this may seem easier, we also don’t walk in the things of God more than our childlike ability allows. How do we get out of this limitation and be dealt with as those who are mature? The word translated "chasten" does not just mean discipline and punishment, like our word chasten does, in fact it means so much more! If we limit what these verses are saying to just chastening, we will miss much of what our attention is being pointed to.
Can God deal with you as mature? That’s a question we look at in tonight’s midweek service. There are responses we have toward God that can put us in the “deal with as immature” category, and though this may seem easier, we also don’t walk in the things of God more than our childlike ability allows. How do we get out of this limitation and be dealt with as those who are mature? The word translated "chasten" does not just mean discipline and punishment, like our word chasten does, in fact it means so much more! If we limit what these verses are saying to just chastening, we will miss much of what our attention is being pointed to.
Have you become weary and discouraged? Has the walk of faith, the call of God, persecution from others, or even the resistance against temptation worn you down? Well, Hebrews has some help for us. How can we prevent becoming weary and discouraged? Let's take a look at Hebrews 12:1-3...
Have you become weary and discouraged? Has the walk of faith, the call of God, persecution from others, or even the resistance against temptation worn you down? Well, Hebrews has some help for us. How can we prevent becoming weary and discouraged? Let's take a look at Hebrews 12:1-3...
Has your faith made you unworthy yet? Yes, you read that correctly. The faith of those faith heroes in Hebrews 11 are said to be unworthy of this world. So, are we unworthy yet? The chapter finishes up with telling us that they did not receive the promise, but this word for receive is not a common word used for it. What does this word mean and what light these two things shed on our understanding of faith will be our topic in this one as we finish Hebrews 11.
Has your faith made you unworthy yet? Yes, you read that correctly. The faith of those faith heroes in Hebrews 11 are said to be unworthy of this world. So, are we unworthy yet? The chapter finishes up with telling us that they did not receive the promise, but this word for receive is not a common word used for it. What does this word mean and what light these two things shed on our understanding of faith will be our topic in this one as we finish Hebrews 11.
Just another ordinary day that turned into an historical one according to 1 Samuel 14. Of course the ordinary day was on a battle field facing 30,000 chariots, 6,000 horseman, and foot solders as numerous as the sand of the shore. And all you have is 600 men, down from 3000, and just TWO swords. One though was in the hand of Saul's son Jonathan and this is what he did with it. How can we turn our ordinary day, facing big battles, into something historic?
Just another ordinary day that turned into an historical one according to 1 Samuel 14. Of course the ordinary day was on a battle field facing 30,000 chariots, 6,000 horseman, and foot solders as numerous as the sand of the shore. And all you have is 600 men, down from 3000, and just TWO swords. One though was in the hand of Saul's son Jonathan and this is what he did with it. How can we turn our ordinary day, facing big battles, into something historic?
The faith that overcomes in battles and in deaths is our focus in tonight's midweek service. Whom did the writer of Hebrews have in mind? In one of these faith examples, the person of faith did not succeed in getting the answer through their own praying, but responded in faith and received the victory. Have you had a prayer failure? Something you needed didn't come through? How did you respond and how can we respond in faith in the midst of failure?
The faith that overcomes in battles and in deaths is our focus in tonight's midweek service. Whom did the writer of Hebrews have in mind? In one of these faith examples, the person of faith did not succeed in getting the answer through their own praying, but responded in faith and received the victory. Have you had a prayer failure? Something you needed didn't come through? How did you respond and how can we respond in faith in the midst of failure?
Did God stop the mouths of the lions for Daniel or was it Daniel's faith? It seems Daniel says the Lord did it and Hebrews tells us Daniel did. The same for the fiery furnace, so what's up with this and what does this teach us about our faith?
Did God stop the mouths of the lions for Daniel or was it Daniel's faith? It seems Daniel says the Lord did it and Hebrews tells us Daniel did. The same for the fiery furnace, so what's up with this and what does this teach us about our faith?
See if you can relate to this... Israel was doing wrong stuff and the enemy was able to get to them. Then they repented, and after they put away what God was telling them to, things got a lot worse! Wouldn't you expect that after we truly repent (and Israel did) that God would have the opportunity to make things better? Why did they get worse? Here is an example: You start tithing and instead of getting out of your financial difficulties, extra things seem to come up that need money. What should we do or think in these situations? The faith of Samuel shows us what could be going on.
See if you can relate to this... Israel was doing wrong stuff and the enemy was able to get to them. Then they repented, and after they put away what God was telling them to, things got a lot worse! Wouldn't you expect that after we truly repent (and Israel did) that God would have the opportunity to make things better? Why did they get worse? Here is an example: You start tithing and instead of getting out of your financial difficulties, extra things seem to come up that need money. What should we do or think in these situations? The faith of Samuel shows us what could be going on.
The faith of David and Samson are the focus tonight. Samson is a good contrast to David so I'm glad we didn't get to him earlier. What specifically did the writer of Hebrews have in mind when he wrote down David's name? There are three aspects to David's faith life that I see and we will look at each as we continue in the series on Hebrews.
The faith of David and Samson are the focus tonight. Samson is a good contrast to David so I'm glad we didn't get to him earlier. What specifically did the writer of Hebrews have in mind when he wrote down David's name? There are three aspects to David's faith life that I see and we will look at each as we continue in the series on Hebrews.
Why is Jephthah in the Hall of Faith? This is one that doesn't jump out at you as much as the others, but we will find the clues and see why Jephthah gets mentioned. We will also see why we are so tempted to make deals with God. "God if you will answer my prayer I will do _______" What was thelast deal you tried to make with God?
Why is Jephthah in the Hall of Faith? This is one that doesn't jump out at you as much as the others, but we will find the clues and see why Jephthah gets mentioned. We will also see why we are so tempted to make deals with God. "God if you will answer my prayer I will do _______" What was thelast deal you tried to make with God?
We come to the mention of Barak in Hebrews 11. This man had two women on the team who seemed to get more credit for what happened then he did, so why does he get the mention in Hebrews instead of them? Many questions to answer tonight including "God can use someone else to do what He called you to do?" and one of my favorites "What if I'm the back up plan?"
We come to the mention of Barak in Hebrews 11. This man had two women on the team who seemed to get more credit for what happened then he did, so why does he get the mention in Hebrews instead of them? Many questions to answer tonight including "God can use someone else to do what He called you to do?" and one of my favorites "What if I'm the back up plan?"
These two verses in Judges 6:12-13 show us an attitude that is often present with Christians today. If God is with me (or us) why are things so bad? It is hard to hear what God says through the filter of our circumstances, but that is what Gideon is being asked to do, and once he does a great victory comes to Israel that changes the course of history. How do we get to a place where we just hear what God says, and not the add on stuff? What is involved with getting rid of the circumstances filter that's in the way?
These two verses in Judges 6:12-13 show us an attitude that is often present with Christians today. If God is with me (or us) why are things so bad? It is hard to hear what God says through the filter of our circumstances, but that is what Gideon is being asked to do, and once he does a great victory comes to Israel that changes the course of history. How do we get to a place where we just hear what God says, and not the add on stuff? What is involved with getting rid of the circumstances filter that's in the way?
How did Rahab go from being numbered with condemned people (Jericho) to being included in the genealogy of Jesus? What are we to learn from the faith of Israel in crossing the Red Sea and defeating Jericho? How did the spies find the one believer in the City of Jericho? What were the odds? Three examples of faith and much to learn from these!
How did Rahab go from being numbered with condemned people (Jericho) to being included in the genealogy of Jesus? What are we to learn from the faith of Israel in crossing the Red Sea and defeating Jericho? How did the spies find the one believer in the City of Jericho? What were the odds? Three examples of faith and much to learn from these!
Four times we read the words “By faith Moses” in Hebrews 11:24-29 and we will spend our time in tonight’s midweek service on what the faith of Moses was that the writer has in mind. One of the most common words in this passage captured my attention as I have been mulling over the life of Moses described here. I’m glad it did because it’s meaning is very enlightening to the faith of Moses.
Four times we read the words “By faith Moses” in Hebrews 11:24-29 and we will spend our time in tonight’s midweek service on what the faith of Moses was that the writer has in mind. One of the most common words in this passage captured my attention as I have been mulling over the life of Moses described here. I’m glad it did because it’s meaning is very enlightening to the faith of Moses.
Did you ever perceive that God had a hand in something but then He didn’t get involved to the extent that you thought? You may have committed to something you thought God was in and leading you into it, but it didn't get the support you thought, even counted on God supplying? Did you miss God? That may be what is in the minds of Moses' parents as we look at them next in Hebrews 11:23, and we'll show you why.
Did you ever perceive that God had a hand in something but then He didn’t get involved to the extent that you thought? You may have committed to something you thought God was in and leading you into it, but it didn't get the support you thought, even counted on God supplying? Did you miss God? That may be what is in the minds of Moses' parents as we look at them next in Hebrews 11:23, and we'll show you why.
Why does a word used 21 times in the New Testament and always translated by the same English word, get changed this one time in Hebrews 11:22 to something very different? The word translated "mention" is never translated this way in any other verse, but here it is. What brought about the change and how does this get Joseph into the faith hall of fame? The only person given more coverage in the book of Genesis is Abraham, and still Joseph's life and multiple acts of faith take up 1/4 of the whole book! Yet this one action comes from only two verses at the end of Genesis. So, what makes this faith act so important? If we practice what Joseph did that got him listed among the faith heroes of Hebrews 11, we will bring a very desired trait into our lives, and one through which God can bless us!
Why does a word used 21 times in the New Testament and always translated by the same English word, get changed this one time in Hebrews 11:22 to something very different? The word translated "mention" is never translated this way in any other verse, but here it is. What brought about the change and how does this get Joseph into the faith hall of fame? The only person given more coverage in the book of Genesis is Abraham, and still Joseph's life and multiple acts of faith take up 1/4 of the whole book! Yet this one action comes from only two verses at the end of Genesis. So, what makes this faith act so important? If we practice what Joseph did that got him listed among the faith heroes of Hebrews 11, we will bring a very desired trait into our lives, and one through which God can bless us!
Two things are in view in Hebrews 11:21 that puts Jacob's faith in the hall of fame list, not just the blessing of the sons of Joseph. Can you see the second and why it was significant? Jacob's faith is our topic in tonight's midweek service and we will look at both of the things in view here, why they stood out above all the other acts of faith by Jacob, and how this impacts our walk with God.
Two things are in view in Hebrews 11:21 that puts Jacob's faith in the hall of fame list, not just the blessing of the sons of Joseph. Can you see the second and why it was significant? Jacob's faith is our topic in tonight's midweek service and we will look at both of the things in view here, why they stood out above all the other acts of faith by Jacob, and how this impacts our walk with God.
In Hebrews 11:20 the faith of Isaac speaking a blessing over Jacob and Esau in the next great faith act. The question I have been asking myself is how is this action 'hall of fame' faith worthy when Isaac was tricked into blessing Jacob with the blessing God said he would have? It seemed more an act of disobedience than faith! Well, we will look into why it is listed among the great acts of faith.
In Hebrews 11:20 the faith of Isaac speaking a blessing over Jacob and Esau in the next great faith act. The question I have been asking myself is how is this action 'hall of fame' faith worthy when Isaac was tricked into blessing Jacob with the blessing God said he would have? It seemed more an act of disobedience than faith! Well, we will look into why it is listed among the great acts of faith.
As we finish up with the teaching on Abraham from the author of Hebrews, he ends with the faith demonstrated in the test from God. There is much to be learned about tests that God sends, as in our ignorance we attribute much to God testing us which truly are not. How can we know if we are being tested by God? What happens if we fail: what happens if we pass?
As we finish up with the teaching on Abraham from the author of Hebrews, he ends with the faith demonstrated in the test from God. There is much to be learned about tests that God sends, as in our ignorance we attribute much to God testing us which truly are not. How can we know if we are being tested by God? What happens if we fail: what happens if we pass?
How long have you waited for a promise from God or the answer to a prayer? For some I know it has been months or years on some things and I have heard the discouraged words. Could you imagine believing God for something that will never happen in your life time? Hebrews tells us these people died in faith and we have trouble living in faith. Also, what does it mean to see something "through the eyes of faith?" We hear that phrase a lot, but do we actually know what it means?
How long have you waited for a promise from God or the answer to a prayer? For some I know it has been months or years on some things and I have heard the discouraged words. Could you imagine believing God for something that will never happen in your life time? Hebrews tells us these people died in faith and we have trouble living in faith. Also, what does it mean to see something "through the eyes of faith?" We hear that phrase a lot, but do we actually know what it means?
The author of Hebrews spends 12 verses on Abraham and Sarah and we will take on about half of them here. With Abraham we look at an act of faith that is often overlooked and with Sarah we have mostly negative verses on her faith (or lack of it) in the Old Testament, but here we have some very positive aspects of her faith. One word in verse 11 really threw me for awhile and I pulled from every resource I could find to solve it's mystery. We will go over that as well.
The author of Hebrews spends 12 verses on Abraham and Sarah and we will take on about half of them here. With Abraham we look at an act of faith that is often overlooked and with Sarah we have mostly negative verses on her faith (or lack of it) in the Old Testament, but here we have some very positive aspects of her faith. One word in verse 11 really threw me for awhile and I pulled from every resource I could find to solve it's mystery. We will go over that as well.
I think the thing that discourages me the most in the ministry is the battles that rise up between church members. That is likely because we don't face that great of persecution from the outside in this country, so the internal battles take center stage. Still, for me when people you care so much about and have sown a good bit into are on different sides of an issue it can tear you apart! The reasons are far more than I can get into here and not everyone would have a point of reference either, but when I come to a story like Noah and see how much he likely went through to do what God called him to do, I think man I can be such a wimp! If you wonder what he might have gone through, listen and see. How do you measure up in facing ministry difficulties?
I think the thing that discourages me the most in the ministry is the battles that rise up between church members. That is likely because we don't face that great of persecution from the outside in this country, so the internal battles take center stage. Still, for me when people you care so much about and have sown a good bit into are on different sides of an issue it can tear you apart! The reasons are far more than I can get into here and not everyone would have a point of reference either, but when I come to a story like Noah and see how much he likely went through to do what God called him to do, I think man I can be such a wimp! If you wonder what he might have gone through, listen and see. How do you measure up in facing ministry difficulties?
Have you ever heard that God decided to take Enoch up to heaven so he "walked with God and was not for God took him." Sounds like it was God's decision, but that is not what the writer of Hebrews tells us. These two verses have much to teach us on faith as we look at the life of Enoch in Hebrews 11:5-6.
Have you ever heard that God decided to take Enoch up to heaven so he "walked with God and was not for God took him." Sounds like it was God's decision, but that is not what the writer of Hebrews tells us. These two verses have much to teach us on faith as we look at the life of Enoch in Hebrews 11:5-6.
As we begin chapter 11 of Hebrews we have the familiar verse "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." So how does the context of the first 10 chapters help us to understand what faith is better?
As we begin chapter 11 of Hebrews we have the familiar verse "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." So how does the context of the first 10 chapters help us to understand what faith is better?
We quote this verse often "The just shall live by faith" but understanding it in light of the full context really brings out the meaning of this truth, and wait until you see what the author of Hebrews launches into after this!
We quote this verse often "The just shall live by faith" but understanding it in light of the full context really brings out the meaning of this truth, and wait until you see what the author of Hebrews launches into after this!
If you have problems with people (and who doesn't) this section of scripture will give you advice to solve most of them. If we just did what is in these 7 verse of Hebrews 10 we would be better and the people we are around would be better too.
If you have problems with people (and who doesn't) this section of scripture will give you advice to solve most of them. If we just did what is in these 7 verse of Hebrews 10 we would be better and the people we are around would be better too.
If at all, as believing Christians, we hold dearly to our confession that we know God because we believe this scripture: "they that come to God must believe that God exists..." That's relational. However, there is more. There are those unusual moments when God prods, pries, pricks us or manifest himself in very strange ways. Those times, far removed from mere coincidences, often leave us wondering and affirming his invisibility. So then, what do you do "When You Know 'It Is The Lord '"? Play the key of D!
Why does a prophecy from the Old Testament (Psalm 40:6-8) get altered here when quoted in Hebrews 10:5-6? Psalm 40:6 reads "My ears You have opened" but Hebrews writes it as "“a body you have prepared for me." Why this change?
Why does a prophecy from the Old Testament (Psalm 40:6-8) get altered here when quoted in Hebrews 10:5-6? Psalm 40:6 reads "My ears You have opened" but Hebrews writes it as "“a body you have prepared for me." Why this change?
Why did God ask for the shedding of the blood of so many bulls, lambs, and other animals if only the blood of Jesus Christ could cleanse us from sin? The truth here will unlock some other spiritual principles in your life.
Why did God ask for the shedding of the blood of so many bulls, lambs, and other animals if only the blood of Jesus Christ could cleanse us from sin? The truth here will unlock some other spiritual principles in your life.
Why is the writer of Hebrews talking about goats in Ch. 9 when most of the symbolism of Jesus Christ involves a lamb? Well, the day that the High Priest would enter into the Holy of Holies to make sacrifices for the people, it involved a goat, not a lamb. Why this change?
Why is the writer of Hebrews talking about goats in Ch. 9 when most of the symbolism of Jesus Christ involves a lamb? Well, the day that the High Priest would enter into the Holy of Holies to make sacrifices for the people, it involved a goat, not a lamb. Why this change?
Hebrews 9 talks about the tabernacle with it's parts and furnishings, so we will be looking at these and what they have to do with what point the writer wants us to see.
Hebrews 9 talks about the tabernacle with it's parts and furnishings, so we will be looking at these and what they have to do with what point the writer wants us to see.
Exploring an old saying in a new way, "The Proof will be in the Pudding" looking at God's strategy for making Godly pudding.
From Hebrews 8:6-13 we will take an in-depth at the "doctrine" of forgive and forget. Does God forget the sins He forgives us of? We hit on this lightly a year or so ago and had more comments about it than I expected. Since Hebrews here has one of the scriptures for this belief we will take the opportunity to study this. The misunderstanding of this gives the enemy ground to make people think the are walking in unforgiveness and never walk in what true forgiveness is.
From Hebrews 8:6-13 we will take an in-depth at the "doctrine" of forgive and forget. Does God forget the sins He forgives us of? We hit on this lightly a year or so ago and had more comments about it than I expected. Since Hebrews here has one of the scriptures for this belief we will take the opportunity to study this. The misunderstanding of this gives the enemy ground to make people think the are walking in unforgiveness and never walk in what true forgiveness is.
The children of Israel had lost sight of what was important because what was supposed to set their expectations on something greater, had dulled those expectations instead. Could the same happen to us (or maybe it has already.)
The children of Israel had lost sight of what was important because what was supposed to set their expectations on something greater, had dulled those expectations instead. Could the same happen to us (or maybe it has already.)
What would you say would be good qualifications of a priest? Do you have an idea of what God's first qualification was of a priest (as recorded in the Word of God?) What does that tell us about what God looks for in us as a priest?
Melchizedek was called upon by God to bless Abraham. He did go but there was something that might have hindered him, and the same thing does hinder many people today. Have you been hindered from doing what God calls upon you to do?
Melchizedek was called upon by God to bless Abraham. He did go but there was something that might have hindered him, and the same thing does hinder many people today. Have you been hindered from doing what God calls upon you to do?
What were the roles of the priests in the Old Testament? What were the problems that the priest brought to the people of Israel? Knowing these two things sheds light on what our roles should be as a priest and what things to watch out for so we do not bring trouble to the body of Christ.
What were the roles of the priests in the Old Testament? What were the problems that the priest brought to the people of Israel? Knowing these two things sheds light on what our roles should be as a priest and what things to watch out for so we do not bring trouble to the body of Christ.
Why was it imperative that Jesus not be a continuation of the Levitical High Priesthood (from Aaron) but to one who came before Aaron and who was not even a Hebrew? Also, why was Hagar cast out of Abraham's home? It seems cruel to do that with a mother and her child. We look at the significance and how it translates into a New Testament principle.
Why was it imperative that Jesus not be a continuation of the Levitical High Priesthood (from Aaron) but to one who came before Aaron and who was not even a Hebrew? Also, why was Hagar cast out of Abraham's home? It seems cruel to do that with a mother and her child. We look at the significance and how it translates into a New Testament principle.
We start off the section of Hebrews on Melchizedek with a look back in Genesis 14 when Melchizedek comes on the scene to bless Abraham after his victory over the 5 kings, to find out who he is and his significance as a high priest. Why does Melchizedek bless Abraham AFTER the battle instead of before?
We start off the section of Hebrews on Melchizedek with a look back in Genesis 14 when Melchizedek comes on the scene to bless Abraham after his victory over the 5 kings, to find out who he is and his significance as a high priest. Why does Melchizedek bless Abraham AFTER the battle instead of before?
How does Abraham's "patient endurance" differ from just simply waiting for a promise to be fulfilled?
How does Abraham's "patient endurance" differ from just simply waiting for a promise to be fulfilled?
Of all the people who may be bringing you a gift this year, the best they could do is the best of what is on the earth, but what are you asking of God who has so much more at His disposal?
Of all the people who may be bringing you a gift this year, the best they could do is the best of what is on the earth, but what are you asking of God who has so much more at His disposal?
How do we know we are ready to "leave the elementary teachings?" If the Hebrew Christians were to move on, can we know when it's time for us to leave something and go on?
How do we know we are ready to "leave the elementary teachings?" If the Hebrew Christians were to move on, can we know when it's time for us to leave something and go on?
Are the victories you expect not coming to you? Maybe you are under the wrong high priest!
Are the victories you expect not coming to you? Maybe you are under the wrong high priest!
What is the two edged sword spoken of in this passage, it's benefit to our spirit and soul, and what is this discerning of the thoughts and intents of the heart?
What is the two edged sword spoken of in this passage, it's benefit to our spirit and soul, and what is this discerning of the thoughts and intents of the heart?
Since we learned that obedience puts us in position to enter into God's rest, what do we need to do to enter in?
Since we learned that obedience puts us in position to enter into God's rest, what do we need to do to enter in?
What is God's rest that we are to enter into? Is it a day off? Maybe a nap? Or is it heaven? If we are not sure of what His rest is, how will we know if we have entered it?
What is God's rest that we are to enter into? Is it a day off? Maybe a nap? Or is it heaven? If we are not sure of what His rest is, how will we know if we have entered it?
It may not jump out at you, but there is a reference to the waters at Meribah incident in the quoted passage from Psalms 95. Why has the writer of Hebrews brought this in to the discussion on the priesthood?
It may not jump out at you, but there is a reference to the waters at Meribah incident in the quoted passage from Psalms 95. Why has the writer of Hebrews brought this in to the discussion on the priesthood?
How do we become partakers of the heavenly calling and how can we fall away from it. The first 5 minutes or so are missing (recorder started late) but you can catch it here on the Facebook Live feed.
https://www.facebook.com/285236572207/videos/10155763007582208/
How do we become partakers of the heavenly calling and how can we fall away from it. The first 5 minutes or so are missing (recorder started late) but you can catch it here on the Facebook Live feed.
https://www.facebook.com/285236572207/videos/10155763007582208/
What will the Millennial kingdom be like? Will it be as perfect as we imagine? There are descriptions of the coming kingdom from which we can get a good idea as well as what our roles or jobs will be. Knowing what is to come gives you a good idea of how to prepare for it in this life.
What will the Millennial kingdom be like? Will it be as perfect as we imagine? There are descriptions of the coming kingdom from which we can get a good idea as well as what our roles or jobs will be. Knowing what is to come gives you a good idea of how to prepare for it in this life.
In this passage of Hebrews, we are told how to keep from drifting away from the truth. How common is it for believers to drift, and are we above it if we are seasoned saints who know the Word of God well? What is the preventative and are we applying it?
In this passage of Hebrews, we are told how to keep from drifting away from the truth. How common is it for believers to drift, and are we above it if we are seasoned saints who know the Word of God well? What is the preventative and are we applying it?
Many Christians see the enemies of Jesus as defeated, but are they defeated or are they yet to be defeated?
Many Christians see the enemies of Jesus as defeated, but are they defeated or are they yet to be defeated?
Hebrews 1:9 tells us that Jesus loves righteousness and hates lawlessness. What about these traits helps us become more like Jesus and less of the world? Is it any wonder why the world in these last days is going so much toward lawlessness?
Hebrews 1:9 tells us that Jesus loves righteousness and hates lawlessness. What about these traits helps us become more like Jesus and less of the world? Is it any wonder why the world in these last days is going so much toward lawlessness?
Jesus asked a question of the leaders of the Jews that they couldn't answer. The question was if David calls Messiah Lord, how is He David's son? Did you know there is an answer to this question? The answer is simple and yet hidden as well, but seeing it helps unlock much for our spiritual development.
Jesus asked a question of the leaders of the Jews that they couldn't answer. The question was if David calls Messiah Lord, how is He David's son? Did you know there is an answer to this question? The answer is simple and yet hidden as well, but seeing it helps unlock much for our spiritual development.
Why would the enemy be able to take out such a great prophet such as John? How did an evil woman succeed here? Also, much as happens today, people come to conclusions based on no facts, just a feeling or a fear. We look at the problems that come from this and how to identify when it happens to us or others we know.
Why would the enemy be able to take out such a great prophet such as John? How did an evil woman succeed here? Also, much as happens today, people come to conclusions based on no facts, just a feeling or a fear. We look at the problems that come from this and how to identify when it happens to us or others we know.
Looking at John the baptist we see how to deal with discouragement in ministry, and what to do when it seems like everyone around you (Christians especially) are either idiots or sinners, or maybe both! Both of these problems are more common than you might think. John dealt with both of these and we will see what lessons we can learn from his life to deal with these in ours. We all know we cannot continue strong if we are discouraged, but the second part is also a destroyer of strength and vision. Both have put many a person out of ministry and both are caused by something good, but if we go in the wrong direction it can feel like we are drowning.
Looking at John the baptist we see how to deal with discouragement in ministry, and what to do when it seems like everyone around you (Christians especially) are either idiots or sinners, or maybe both! Both of these problems are more common than you might think. John dealt with both of these and we will see what lessons we can learn from his life to deal with these in ours. We all know we cannot continue strong if we are discouraged, but the second part is also a destroyer of strength and vision. Both have put many a person out of ministry and both are caused by something good, but if we go in the wrong direction it can feel like we are drowning.
Have you ever wondered where the ordinance of baptism came from? John seems to introduce, but no one questions it or even asks him why he is putting people under the water, so why were they so okay with it? We look at it's foundation in the Old Testament and also one other big question. John calls himself a witness of, but what did he see that he is a witness for? If John was a witness and testified that Jesus was the Christ, why did God have to reveal this truth to peter and the rest of the disciples? Hope your interest is tweaked! Here is the audio...
Have you ever wondered where the ordinance of baptism came from? John seems to introduce, but no one questions it or even asks him why he is putting people under the water, so why were they so okay with it? We look at it's foundation in the Old Testament and also one other big question. John calls himself a witness of, but what did he see that he is a witness for? If John was a witness and testified that Jesus was the Christ, why did God have to reveal this truth to peter and the rest of the disciples? Hope your interest is tweaked! Here is the audio...
As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? What is Jesus saying about John with His question "A reed shaken by the wind?" We will look into this and the Prophecy by Isaiah calling John "A voice of one crying in the wilderness" as we continue the series on John the Baptist.
As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? What is Jesus saying about John with His question "A reed shaken by the wind?" We will look into this and the Prophecy by Isaiah calling John "A voice of one crying in the wilderness" as we continue the series on John the Baptist.
Looking at John's mother this time and the words of prophecy that came leading up to John's birth.
Looking at John's mother this time and the words of prophecy that came leading up to John's birth.
We are beginning a new series on a character we have not taken an extensive look at - John The Baptist. To start, we will take on some the events of his birth, the supernatural message sent to his father, his name, the office he stood in, and more.
We are beginning a new series on a character we have not taken an extensive look at - John The Baptist. To start, we will take on some the events of his birth, the supernatural message sent to his father, his name, the office he stood in, and more.
Finishing the series on Paul's letter to the Philippians, we look at the context of this verse and what Paul is teaching us when he says "my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Finishing the series on Paul's letter to the Philippians, we look at the context of this verse and what Paul is teaching us when he says "my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
In this midweek service we visit the topic of CONTENTMENT again, and also the often quoted verse "I can do all things...". The context and Greek on this verse can give us some great insight!
In this midweek service we visit the topic of CONTENTMENT again, and also the often quoted verse "I can do all things...". The context and Greek on this verse can give us some great insight!
How do we find true contentment in life? Paul shows us in the next section we come to in our series on the letter to the Philippians. It does not come through the people in our life, the places where we live or work, the things we have, nor through how much is or is not in our bank account. But contentment can come to all if you learn and receive what Paul is teaching in Philippians 4:6-11.
How do we find true contentment in life? Paul shows us in the next section we come to in our series on the letter to the Philippians. It does not come through the people in our life, the places where we live or work, the things we have, nor through how much is or is not in our bank account. But contentment can come to all if you learn and receive what Paul is teaching in Philippians 4:6-11.
Paul in Philippians 4:1 calls the saints there his joy and crown? What kind of crown are they and since we are talking about crowns, we will go over the list of heavenly crowns that can await us and what we must do to for them. Also tonight, a dispute between two important people in the church and the affect it had on them, the importance of gentleness, and of course Rejoice in the Lord always!
Paul in Philippians 4:1 calls the saints there his joy and crown? What kind of crown are they and since we are talking about crowns, we will go over the list of heavenly crowns that can await us and what we must do to for them. Also tonight, a dispute between two important people in the church and the affect it had on them, the importance of gentleness, and of course Rejoice in the Lord always!
Philippians 3:17 - 4:1, looking at examples to follow, our heavenly citizenship, and a healing principle I have not taught enough but I will work to keep this very important principle in front of us.
Philippians 3:17 - 4:1, looking at examples to follow, our heavenly citizenship, and a healing principle I have not taught enough but I will work to keep this very important principle in front of us.
A rose is a rose is a rose because God set it up that way. Everything produces after its own kind.
Ministering from Romans 3 & 4, Brother Keith Porter answers the question: Have you ever wondered how to make real change in a world gone crazy?
Paul says that he is not perfected, not where he wants to be, but teaches us some principles on how to get there as we take up Philippians 3:12-16
Paul says that he is not perfected, not where he wants to be, but teaches us some principles on how to get there as we take up Philippians 3:12-16
Paul relates the body of Christ to soldiers in a battle, having armor, and even a mentality of a soldier, but how much of that soldier mentality do we have? Is a lack of it holding us back? How can we get more?
The usual question and answer session afterwards was left on for you on this one, but you may have a hard time hearing the actual question.
Paul relates the body of Christ to soldiers in a battle, having armor, and even a mentality of a soldier, but how much of that soldier mentality do we have? Is a lack of it holding us back? How can we get more?
The usual question and answer session afterwards was left on for you on this one, but you may have a hard time hearing the actual question.
"if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead." (NKJV) What is Paul teaching in this verse? Is the resurrection of the dead something we have to attain to? Does this throw uncertainty onto our belief that we as Christians are assured to rise from the dead? What is Paul teaching us in this 3rd chapter of Philippians? We look at this and other questions from Philippians 3:1-11
"if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead." (NKJV) What is Paul teaching in this verse? Is the resurrection of the dead something we have to attain to? Does this throw uncertainty onto our belief that we as Christians are assured to rise from the dead? What is Paul teaching us in this 3rd chapter of Philippians? We look at this and other questions from Philippians 3:1-11
Paul said of Timothy that he had no one else like minded. What set Timothy apart from all others, including those important to Paul and the ministry?
Paul said of Timothy that he had no one else like minded. What set Timothy apart from all others, including those important to Paul and the ministry?
How hard is it to "do all things without complaining and disputing?" I think we can agree pretty difficult, so is it an unreasonable comand in the Word, or can we actually do it?
How hard is it to "do all things without complaining and disputing?" I think we can agree pretty difficult, so is it an unreasonable comand in the Word, or can we actually do it?
What mind is in you? In this lesson from Philippians we look at Paul's exhortation to "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." What was that mind and is it in you?
What mind is in you? In this lesson from Philippians we look at Paul's exhortation to "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." What was that mind and is it in you?
Paul said that everyone here (Rome) including the WHOLE palace or Praetorian guard, knows that he is in chains for the cause of Christ. How did so many likely unsaved gentiles come to know and respect that Paul's an ambassador to a cause and a Savior they likely didn't even believe in?
Paul said that everyone here (Rome) including the WHOLE palace or Praetorian guard, knows that he is in chains for the cause of Christ. How did so many likely unsaved gentiles come to know and respect that Paul's an ambassador to a cause and a Savior they likely didn't even believe in?
Christians' prayers for other Christians are often based on emotions; what we hope might happen or what we feel should happen. Paul in his epistles gives us some examples of his Word based prayer, but not here in the letter to the Philippians. Instead, he describes what his prayers involve and teaches us what our prayers for others can be, as well as things to receive in our own Christian life.
Christians' prayers for other Christians are often based on emotions; what we hope might happen or what we feel should happen. Paul in his epistles gives us some examples of his Word based prayer, but not here in the letter to the Philippians. Instead, he describes what his prayers involve and teaches us what our prayers for others can be, as well as things to receive in our own Christian life.
An introduction to the epistle to the church in Philippi and spending some time looking at verse 6 in particular... "being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;"
An introduction to the epistle to the church in Philippi and spending some time looking at verse 6 in particular... "being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;"
In this service we are going to expand on something from last week and take a look at what traits or characteristics does a person need to possess to become a Timothy, or Epaphras, or my favorite Aristarchus on the life of someone like Paul? In other words, how can you become a person who's mere presence is a blessing in the life of a person in ministry you depend on or serve with?
In this service we are going to expand on something from last week and take a look at what traits or characteristics does a person need to possess to become a Timothy, or Epaphras, or my favorite Aristarchus on the life of someone like Paul? In other words, how can you become a person who's mere presence is a blessing in the life of a person in ministry you depend on or serve with?
What do you know about the people who traveled with Paul? The people he came to depend on? Well, in tonight's midweek service as we finish the series on Colossians, we look at the people Paul mentions as he signs off. Fellow workers like Tychicus, Aristarchus, John Mark, Epaphras, and others. One of the great lessons to learn from this conclusion to this Epistle is how much we can be a support to those in the five fold ministry. We hear little a bout these men, but if Paul depended on them and needed them, then they made him better.
What do you know about the people who traveled with Paul? The people he came to depend on? Well, in tonight's midweek service as we finish the series on Colossians, we look at the people Paul mentions as he signs off. Fellow workers like Tychicus, Aristarchus, John Mark, Epaphras, and others. One of the great lessons to learn from this conclusion to this Epistle is how much we can be a support to those in the five fold ministry. We hear little a bout these men, but if Paul depended on them and needed them, then they made him better.
There is a difference between praying for doors to open and being led by doors that are open or closed.
There is a difference between praying for doors to open and being led by doors that are open or closed.
In Colossians 4:2 Paul exhorts believers to continue in prayer and includes three very defining qualities our prayers should contain. How do yours stack up?
In Colossians 4:2 Paul exhorts believers to continue in prayer and includes three very defining qualities our prayers should contain. How do yours stack up?
Paul's instructions on how we are to opperate in unequal relationships like parent and child, or boss and employee with the goals and expectaions of each.
Paul's instructions on how we are to opperate in unequal relationships like parent and child, or boss and employee with the goals and expectaions of each.
As we begin Colossians 3 we look at two of the great principles in the Word of God. If we could get these down and make them a natural part of our life, our lives will never be the same.
As we begin Colossians 3 we look at two of the great principles in the Word of God. If we could get these down and make them a natural part of our life, our lives will never be the same.
Paul had "great conflict" for the saints for three things that the church today just tosses casually away. Why did Paul see these things as so important and why don't we? What are we losing when we let go of just these three things?
Paul had "great conflict" for the saints for three things that the church today just tosses casually away. Why did Paul see these things as so important and why don't we? What are we losing when we let go of just these three things?
Are we walking in all that should be different in our lives since Jesus Christ has delivered us from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light?
One of the great prayers in the Bible and one you can pray for yourself and those around you. In this service, we look at what Paul is praying for and the what it can bring to your life.
One of the great prayers in the Bible and one you can pray for yourself and those around you. In this service, we look at what Paul is praying for and the what it can bring to your life.
Have you ever wished that you had better people around you? Nicer people, friends who challenged you and made you better? How can you get those kind of people in your life? We look at how Paul did.
Have you ever wished that you had better people around you? Nicer people, friends who challenged you and made you better? How can you get those kind of people in your life? We look at how Paul did.
With the upcoming election, most Christians would say that their 1st choice (even 2nd and 3rd) are no longer running for president. So can a Christian vote for a presidential candidate who may not even be God's choice? We will take a look at this in next week's midweek service. The goal is to stay away from the political stands of each, but to look in the Word of God for what made a great leader, and what such a leader does to bring good things to the country. These principles will help us in this election. Hope you can join in!
The Finale - looking at Paul and the rest of the New Testament epistles and what they tell us to do with believers who are stuck on sin and no interest in repenting.
The Finale - looking at Paul and the rest of the New Testament epistles and what they tell us to do with believers who are stuck on sin and no interest in repenting.
How do we deal with believers who are close to us, but also refuse to stop a habitual sin pattern of behavior. Should my relationship or fellowship with them change? What does the Bible tell me I should do? Last week we looked at what a habitual sin is, discovering that it is not just one you keep doing over and over, though that may have been our definition of it. This week we look at what kind of relationship should we have with those in such sins.
How do we deal with believers who are close to us, but also refuse to stop a habitual sin pattern of behavior. Should my relationship or fellowship with them change? What does the Bible tell me I should do? Last week we looked at what a habitual sin is, discovering that it is not just one you keep doing over and over, though that may have been our definition of it. This week we look at what kind of relationship should we have with those in such sins.
We know that most Christian’s are not living perfect lives, but when does sin disqualify us from serving in a church ministry and such? Do we have to become free from sin in order to serve or even to be effective? The Bible gives us some direction on this. Some examples; Judas served in Jesus ministry even after he became a thief, Aaron continued on as High Priest, despite having made an idol, but then Paul rejected John Mark from going with them on the 2nd missionary journey and dismissed others from service for different sins. Paul also wrote (1 Corinthians 5:2) “And you are proud! You should have been filled with sadness so that the man who did this should be put out of your group.” [NCV] In this service we look to see what the Bible tells us will disqualify us from service in the Kingdom.
We know that most Christian’s are not living perfect lives, but when does sin disqualify us from serving in a church ministry and such? Do we have to become free from sin in order to serve or even to be effective? The Bible gives us some direction on this. Some examples; Judas served in Jesus ministry even after he became a thief, Aaron continued on as High Priest, despite having made an idol, but then Paul rejected John Mark from going with them on the 2nd missionary journey and dismissed others from service for different sins. Paul also wrote (1 Corinthians 5:2) “And you are proud! You should have been filled with sadness so that the man who did this should be put out of your group.” [NCV] In this service we look to see what the Bible tells us will disqualify us from service in the Kingdom.
Sister Ethel Waters filled in during pastor Steve's absence, taking another look at Jesus washing the disciples feet at the last supper.
Why does the Bible tell me to test the spirits? What am I supposed to test for and how do i conduct a test of something I hear in the spirit? If the Bible tells us to do this, it also must teach us how.
Why does the Bible tell me to test the spirits? What am I supposed to test for and how do i conduct a test of something I hear in the spirit? If the Bible tells us to do this, it also must teach us how.
King Josiah leads Israel back into true worship, purges the land of idols, and then dies prematurely in a battle with Egypt at only 39 years of age. Why did he die early? Did God look to get him out of the way so he could execute the judgement on Israel that He promised would not happen until after Josiah dies? How do we keep ourselves from coming to wrong and harmful conclusions when something in the Bible or even our own lives happens?
King Josiah leads Israel back into true worship, purges the land of idols, and then dies prematurely in a battle with Egypt at only 39 years of age. Why did he die early? Did God look to get him out of the way so he could execute the judgement on Israel that He promised would not happen until after Josiah dies? How do we keep ourselves from coming to wrong and harmful conclusions when something in the Bible or even our own lives happens?
Amon was an evil king like his father, but he didn't get the opportunity to indulge in all the sin he wanted and then repent when he was older like his father. Josiah takes the throne after Amon is assassinated and turns to the Lord. Along the way he makes a frightening discovery!
Amon was an evil king like his father, but he didn't get the opportunity to indulge in all the sin he wanted and then repent when he was older like his father. Josiah takes the throne after Amon is assassinated and turns to the Lord. Along the way he makes a frightening discovery!
How does any person or group of people who went through such a life altering revival like the one under King Hezekiah, go from serving God with a whole heart to serving idols? And not just any, but even those that require burning your own infant children on an alter of fire! The answers can help us understand our world better with the violence in religions and their attraction to people.
How does any person or group of people who went through such a life altering revival like the one under King Hezekiah, go from serving God with a whole heart to serving idols? And not just any, but even those that require burning your own infant children on an alter of fire! The answers can help us understand our world better with the violence in religions and their attraction to people.
Hezekiah started off his reign with one of the greatest revivals in Judah's history. People not only turned back to God, but they turned against the idols that had infected the land, and they did it willingly... not forced. So how does a king like that go from great revivalist to having God turn against him in around 10-12 years? Find out what took him down, what he did to make a comeback, and how you can spot the same thing in your life (as well as repair the damage if it has already affected you.) We are in 2 Kings 20 and we will see that Hezekiah did not just defeat this once in his life and was done with it, but he yielded to it again.
Many Christians are also affected by this condition, and its casualty count continues to rise! The tough part is that it is a condition that once we are infected, we seldom are aware of it's work. We'll give you some of the symptoms to help you discover its presence in this episode of the study in 2 Kings.
Hezekiah started off his reign with one of the greatest revivals in Judah's history. People not only turned back to God, but they turned against the idols that had infected the land, and they did it willingly... not forced. So how does a king like that go from great revivalist to having God turn against him in around 10-12 years? Find out what took him down, what he did to make a comeback, and how you can spot the same thing in your life (as well as repair the damage if it has already affected you.) We are in 2 Kings 20 and we will see that Hezekiah did not just defeat this once in his life and was done with it, but he yielded to it again.
Many Christians are also affected by this condition, and its casualty count continues to rise! The tough part is that it is a condition that once we are infected, we seldom are aware of it's work. We'll give you some of the symptoms to help you discover its presence in this episode of the study in 2 Kings.
Last time we looked at all the reforms Hezekiah put in to change the heart of the people to serve God with a willing heart. After that, the people went out and cut down the idols and hish places and worshipped God. 1 Coronicles 32:1 reads "After these deeds of faithfulness, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and entered Judah..." Why is Israel over run by the enemy after turning back to the Lord? How the people handle this tells us much about how we should face our own battles which don't seem to be going very well, even after we have been faithful to God. The way most people handle these situations is the reason they lose. Judah and Hezekiah are great examples for us to follow.
Last time we looked at all the reforms Hezekiah put in to change the heart of the people to serve God with a willing heart. After that, the people went out and cut down the idols and hish places and worshipped God. 1 Coronicles 32:1 reads "After these deeds of faithfulness, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and entered Judah..." Why is Israel over run by the enemy after turning back to the Lord? How the people handle this tells us much about how we should face our own battles which don't seem to be going very well, even after we have been faithful to God. The way most people handle these situations is the reason they lose. Judah and Hezekiah are great examples for us to follow.
Hezekiah's reforming of the nation of Judah out of their idolitry and renewed into worhip of Jehovah is unlike other reforms we have seen in the nation of Israel. The account of this in the book of kings doesn't record how this reform happened, but Chronicles does, so we will turn there to see what made this unique and set the stage for what is to come.
Hezekiah's reforming of the nation of Judah out of their idolitry and renewed into worhip of Jehovah is unlike other reforms we have seen in the nation of Israel. The account of this in the book of kings doesn't record how this reform happened, but Chronicles does, so we will turn there to see what made this unique and set the stage for what is to come.
The Bible tells us that king Hoshea (the last king of the northern tribes) was evil, but not as bad as those who came before him. Why does the nation fall under him instead of one of the more evil kings before him? Why do the northern tribes become dispersed by the Assyrians and "lost" instead of preserved like their brethren in Judah were? They all did evil and worship idols with horrible sacrifices, so why is their identity as Israelites not preserved? We take on these and other questions from this chapter.
The Bible tells us that king Hoshea (the last king of the northern tribes) was evil, but not as bad as those who came before him. Why does the nation fall under him instead of one of the more evil kings before him? Why do the northern tribes become dispersed by the Assyrians and "lost" instead of preserved like their brethren in Judah were? They all did evil and worship idols with horrible sacrifices, so why is their identity as Israelites not preserved? We take on these and other questions from this chapter.
Good leaders do not always attract and create good followers, and bad leaders can have followers who are good or even great. The question is not always are you a great leader, for until you learn to be a good or even a great follower you don't have what it takes to be a great leader.
Good leaders do not always attract and create good followers, and bad leaders can have followers who are good or even great. The question is not always are you a great leader, for until you learn to be a good or even a great follower you don't have what it takes to be a great leader.
The final kings of the northern tribes of Israel. Makes you wonder ... why does anyone want to be king so badly over such a mess of a nation!
The final kings of the northern tribes of Israel. Makes you wonder ... why does anyone want to be king so badly over such a mess of a nation!
King Uzziah of Judah was called a good king and had many great accomplishments and inovative ideas during his reign. A favorite of the prophet Jeremiah, but his reign came to a bad end as he became puffed up in pride. How does a good person turn bad? For most it is a loss of good influences and their replacement with bad. It doesn't happen overnight, but it is amazing how often it happens. We look at the life of Uzziah to see how we can prevent it from happening to us.
King Uzziah of Judah was called a good king and had many great accomplishments and inovative ideas during his reign. A favorite of the prophet Jeremiah, but his reign came to a bad end as he became puffed up in pride. How does a good person turn bad? For most it is a loss of good influences and their replacement with bad. It doesn't happen overnight, but it is amazing how often it happens. We look at the life of Uzziah to see how we can prevent it from happening to us.
Jeroboam II is one the most successful of the kings in the northern tribes and yet he is called evil. Why does he come to a place of such success? There is not a whole lot of detail about his time as king in 2 Kings, but as we look to the minor prophets we get a lot more information.
Jeroboam II is one the most successful of the kings in the northern tribes and yet he is called evil. Why does he come to a place of such success? There is not a whole lot of detail about his time as king in 2 Kings, but as we look to the minor prophets we get a lot more information.
How does a God fearing king go from serving the true God, to worshiping false Gods, and turning away from the Lord? The same way people do today. Learn what you need to know so it never happens to you!
How does a God fearing king go from serving the true God, to worshiping false Gods, and turning away from the Lord? The same way people do today. Learn what you need to know so it never happens to you!
How often has the enemy of our faith told you that God will not show up for you? He tries to dicourage us from even asking God anything telling us all the reasons God is upset with us, mad, etc. Yet here in this account of the kings of the Northern tribes of Israel we have God answering prayers and showing up for two kings who are described as "evil" in the Word of God. If God would show up for them, how much more would he show up for you!
How often has the enemy of our faith told you that God will not show up for you? He tries to dicourage us from even asking God anything telling us all the reasons God is upset with us, mad, etc. Yet here in this account of the kings of the Northern tribes of Israel we have God answering prayers and showing up for two kings who are described as "evil" in the Word of God. If God would show up for them, how much more would he show up for you!
How do you root out sins that have plagued a nation for decades? There are times we have elected strong Christian presidents, governors, and other leaders who promise to change policies that have been wrong from a legal or Biblical view, yet once they are in office nothing changes. We see a similar situation in the norther tribes of Israel and once again not only does a God fearing king fail to bring about any change, but he also becomes corrupted by the very thing he was supposed to change. Why does this happen so often in both the past and present? Is a lack of judgement a sign from God that He is okay with it? What can we do about it if our leaders won't change it? Well, come out tonight as we take this issue on and see what we can learn from God's Word about sins that have become embedded in a nation and it's people.
How do you root out sins that have plagued a nation for decades? There are times we have elected strong Christian presidents, governors, and other leaders who promise to change policies that have been wrong from a legal or Biblical view, yet once they are in office nothing changes. We see a similar situation in the norther tribes of Israel and once again not only does a God fearing king fail to bring about any change, but he also becomes corrupted by the very thing he was supposed to change. Why does this happen so often in both the past and present? Is a lack of judgement a sign from God that He is okay with it? What can we do about it if our leaders won't change it? Well, come out tonight as we take this issue on and see what we can learn from God's Word about sins that have become embedded in a nation and it's people.
Becasue of a huge mistake Jehoshaphat made in marrying his son Jehoram into the house of Ahab. Jehoram's wife Athaliah, would try to wipe out the Davidic line just as God said He would do to the house of Ahab. Athaliah usurps the throne, kills off those who would stand in her way, and rules for about 6 years. But God had a plan to stop this attack on the house of David.
Becasue of a huge mistake Jehoshaphat made in marrying his son Jehoram into the house of Ahab. Jehoram's wife Athaliah, would try to wipe out the Davidic line just as God said He would do to the house of Ahab. Athaliah usurps the throne, kills off those who would stand in her way, and rules for about 6 years. But God had a plan to stop this attack on the house of David.
Why does God keep picking failures? How many kings did God pick who turned out to be bad kings, kings who lead the people in idolitry and other sins, and kings who did not follow God with all their heart? God has picked other people for ministry who also failed, such as pastors, teachers, evangelists, prophets, apostles, and even people in other minstries like worship and others. If God knows the future, why not just pick people who will stay true to the truth? There is an answer to this question and here with Jehu we look for it.
Why does God keep picking failures? How many kings did God pick who turned out to be bad kings, kings who lead the people in idolitry and other sins, and kings who did not follow God with all their heart? God has picked other people for ministry who also failed, such as pastors, teachers, evangelists, prophets, apostles, and even people in other minstries like worship and others. If God knows the future, why not just pick people who will stay true to the truth? There is an answer to this question and here with Jehu we look for it.
How is it that someone can be so zealous in doing the things of God, but still not be a follower of God? Jehu's rise to power gives us some clues!
How is it that someone can be so zealous in doing the things of God, but still not be a follower of God? Jehu's rise to power gives us some clues!
Did you know that what is probably the biggest detours from the plan of God was not made by a idol worship king of Israel or Judah, but by one of the most celebrated kings of Judah for his worship and trust in Jehovah? Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat, was involved in probably the most destructive plot against the plan of God and it started with his father, king Jehoshaphat.
Did you know that what is probably the biggest detours from the plan of God was not made by a idol worship king of Israel or Judah, but by one of the most celebrated kings of Judah for his worship and trust in Jehovah? Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat, was involved in probably the most destructive plot against the plan of God and it started with his father, king Jehoshaphat.
You will be hard pressed to find any one in the Word who fell from grace that did not first become unthankful / ungrateful for the blessings God through grace put into their lives. Here is a look at why that is. This is our Thanksgiving service for 2015.
You will be hard pressed to find any one in the Word who fell from grace that did not first become unthankful / ungrateful for the blessings God through grace put into their lives. Here is a look at why that is. This is our Thanksgiving service for 2015.
'If God knew a person was going to do really terrible things, why would He let them live or stop them in some way?' In 2 Kings 8, Elisha predicts that Hazael would become king over Syria and do some very terrible things to the people of Israel. Is God responsible for this if He doesn't stop it? Are we right in thinking God should? We could go further and ask why God allows great storms to form that kill hundreds or even thousands of people. Is this not in God's realm of things to stop? So what can or will God stop and what won't He? We look at this and other questions in this Wednesday service.
'If God knew a person was going to do really terrible things, why would He let them live or stop them in some way?' In 2 Kings 8, Elisha predicts that Hazael would become king over Syria and do some very terrible things to the people of Israel. Is God responsible for this if He doesn't stop it? Are we right in thinking God should? We could go further and ask why God allows great storms to form that kill hundreds or even thousands of people. Is this not in God's realm of things to stop? So what can or will God stop and what won't He? We look at this and other questions in this Wednesday service.
How quickly have you learned to over what God says? Our obedience today opens the door for God to work on our behalf down the road. In this story of the Shunammite woman when she is warned of a coming famine, obeys the word spoken by Elisha and leaves her home. When she returns 7 years later she finds God has worked on her behalf and is restored her house, land, and even more.
How quickly have you learned to over what God says? Our obedience today opens the door for God to work on our behalf down the road. In this story of the Shunammite woman when she is warned of a coming famine, obeys the word spoken by Elisha and leaves her home. When she returns 7 years later she finds God has worked on her behalf and is restored her house, land, and even more.
The king of Israel did not need a spy network or surveillance systems to know the traps the Syrians would set for him. Elisha would hear about them from God and tell the king how to avoid them. This made the king of Syria angry and set an army to get Elisha. Elisha’s response has much for us to learn!
The king of Israel did not need a spy network or surveillance systems to know the traps the Syrians would set for him. Elisha would hear about them from God and tell the king how to avoid them. This made the king of Syria angry and set an army to get Elisha. Elisha’s response has much for us to learn!
How easy it is to go from servant to master in any relationship, whether it be between us and God, or the ones we are supposed to serve in this life. The Bible gives us a great example who accomplishes this in mere minutes, but the affects last a lifetime.
How easy it is to go from servant to master in any relationship, whether it be between us and God, or the ones we are supposed to serve in this life. The Bible gives us a great example who accomplishes this in mere minutes, but the affects last a lifetime.
Elisha is a type of the ministry of the Lord Jesus, and in this midweek service we look at the similarities. As Jesus feed a group of 5,000 and 4,000 men (with their wives and children) Elisha feeds 100 hungry prophets during a famine with just a few food items. We see a very similiar reaction from the servant of Elisha that Jesus saw in His 12 deciples, and we take some time to look at the limiting power of unbelief.
Elisha is a type of the ministry of the Lord Jesus, and in this midweek service we look at the similarities. As Jesus feed a group of 5,000 and 4,000 men (with their wives and children) Elisha feeds 100 hungry prophets during a famine with just a few food items. We see a very similiar reaction from the servant of Elisha that Jesus saw in His 12 deciples, and we take some time to look at the limiting power of unbelief.
This is the story of a woman who decided she wanted to minister to the prophet Elisha just because it was a good thing to do. She wanted nothing and asked for nothing, so Elisha asked what she needed. He then gives her a prophecy that she would have a son. But after some years the young boy died and Elisha is called upon. She tells no one of the death and only has one response to anyone who asks her why she is going to Elisha ... she says "It is well." From her story we learn lessons on stability, sowing and reaping, and how some people pick up on spiritual things that others are oblivious to
This is the story of a woman who decided she wanted to minister to the prophet Elisha just because it was a good thing to do. She wanted nothing and asked for nothing, so Elisha asked what she needed. He then gives her a prophecy that she would have a son. But after some years the young boy died and Elisha is called upon. She tells no one of the death and only has one response to anyone who asks her why she is going to Elisha ... she says "It is well." From her story we learn lessons on stability, sowing and reaping, and how some people pick up on spiritual things that others are oblivious to
Whenever we are up against something that seems impossible, we can fall into a certain way of thinking. That thinking keeps what seems impossible from ever becoming possible, and the widow in 2 Kings 4:1-7 that we will be look at in tonight’s midweek service was battling this same thinking. There are four things this woman is told to do that fight the kind of thinking that keeps us powerless. We will see some of these same things in other places in the Bible where what was impossible became possible. Do you know what these four things are and have they become part of your thinking in some area of your life?
Whenever we are up against something that seems impossible, we can fall into a certain way of thinking. That thinking keeps what seems impossible from ever becoming possible, and the widow in 2 Kings 4:1-7 that we will be look at in tonight’s midweek service was battling this same thinking. There are four things this woman is told to do that fight the kind of thinking that keeps us powerless. We will see some of these same things in other places in the Bible where what was impossible became possible. Do you know what these four things are and have they become part of your thinking in some area of your life?
Jehoshaphat once again allies himself with a king of Israel (Joram this time) and goes into battle against Moab. Once again he asks for the guidance of a prophet of God and they go down to meet Elisha. Elisha's words can teach us a lot, as does the miracle God performs with the ditches in the valley.
Jehoshaphat once again allies himself with a king of Israel (Joram this time) and goes into battle against Moab. Once again he asks for the guidance of a prophet of God and they go down to meet Elisha. Elisha's words can teach us a lot, as does the miracle God performs with the ditches in the valley.
After Elijah is taken up into heaven, Elisha picks up the mantle that fell. We look at some principles of mentoring in this one including how to be a good mentor, and open to being mentored.
After Elijah is taken up into heaven, Elisha picks up the mantle that fell. We look at some principles of mentoring in this one including how to be a good mentor, and open to being mentored.
Elijah is caught up in a whirlwind as he leaves Elisha behind. Elisha makes a request of Elijah.
Elijah is caught up in a whirlwind as he leaves Elisha behind. Elisha makes a request of Elijah.
Will God or has God ever teamed up with satan's kingdom to accomplish what He plans to do? King Ahab joins forces with the king of Judah, Jehoshaphat, in a battle against the Syrians and Jehoshaphat asks if there is a prophet of the Lord to inquire of. Again, a prophet not named Elijah is called upon - Micaiah. He gives a very grim outcome of the battle and for king Ahab. He also gives us a very interesting look into something that happened in heaven that had results on the earth, and it can be confusing to a lot of people who read the Bible. So here is a question ... Does God ever use satan or his kingdom to accomplish what He wants to do?
Will God or has God ever teamed up with satan's kingdom to accomplish what He plans to do? King Ahab joins forces with the king of Judah, Jehoshaphat, in a battle against the Syrians and Jehoshaphat asks if there is a prophet of the Lord to inquire of. Again, a prophet not named Elijah is called upon - Micaiah. He gives a very grim outcome of the battle and for king Ahab. He also gives us a very interesting look into something that happened in heaven that had results on the earth, and it can be confusing to a lot of people who read the Bible. So here is a question ... Does God ever use satan or his kingdom to accomplish what He wants to do?
Sister Ethel Waters took the midweek service as pastor Steve and Connie were at the RMAI Regional Meeting, teaching on what we need to say (and think) when we face challenging circumstances. She shares her own personal testimony of something she faces.
Elijah returns with a word for Ahab after Naboth is murdered so Ahab could turn his vineyard into a vegetable garden. With all the material goods king Ahab had, he is sad over what he doesn't possess. A good lesson to learn ... stay thankful for all you have!
We look at Elijah's response to queen Jezebel's threat on his life, and what caused Elijah to have such a set back after a great victory with the fire coming down from heaven and burning up the alter and sacrifice, as well as the rain that came after 3 1/2 years of drought. We also have encountered set backs like this, though maybe not as grand. How do we come back from them? How can I recognize that I could be set up for such a set back? Is there something I can do to prevent this in my life? All this and more is found in 1 Kings 19.
We look at Elijah's response to queen Jezebel's threat on his life, and what caused Elijah to have such a set back after a great victory with the fire coming down from heaven and burning up the alter and sacrifice, as well as the rain that came after 3 1/2 years of drought. We also have encountered set backs like this, though maybe not as grand. How do we come back from them? How can I recognize that I could be set up for such a set back? Is there something I can do to prevent this in my life? All this and more is found in 1 Kings 19.
As we continue looking at 1 Kings, we will be answering the questions this encounter between Elijah and Ahab raises. FIRST - Why is it if something is the will of God (in this case for the rain to come and break the drought) will it not happen until Elijah prays? SECOND - If something like the rain is the will of God, why don't the clouds appear after the first time Elijah prays? In this case the rain cloud didn't appear until after the 7th time of "fervent" prayer, and once Elijah was told the little tiny cloud appeared in the sky, he stopped praying and warned Ahab to get on his way and a torrential downpour hit the land. This chapter exposes a lot of ignorance we have regarding prayer and the will of God.
As we continue looking at 1 Kings, we will be answering the questions this encounter between Elijah and Ahab raises. FIRST - Why is it if something is the will of God (in this case for the rain to come and break the drought) will it not happen until Elijah prays? SECOND - If something like the rain is the will of God, why don't the clouds appear after the first time Elijah prays? In this case the rain cloud didn't appear until after the 7th time of "fervent" prayer, and once Elijah was told the little tiny cloud appeared in the sky, he stopped praying and warned Ahab to get on his way and a torrential downpour hit the land. This chapter exposes a lot of ignorance we have regarding prayer and the will of God.
Elijah makes his first appearance (in the Bible anyway) and announces a drought and that it won't end until he says so. Then God takes him away and hides him while supernaturally providing for his needs, and eventually those of the widow and her son. But not everything is roses and the son of the woman dies. How does Elijah and the widow handle tragedy? We can learn a lot from how we handle surprise tests and trials!
Elijah makes his first appearance (in the Bible anyway) and announces a drought and that it won't end until he says so. Then God takes him away and hides him while supernaturally providing for his needs, and eventually those of the widow and her son. But not everything is roses and the son of the woman dies. How does Elijah and the widow handle tragedy? We can learn a lot from how we handle surprise tests and trials!
1 Kings 15 & 16 go through 6 kings of Israel (all during the reign of one king in Judah - Asa) and several different dynasties, ending with the father of king Ahab - Omri. Not much is written about him, but of the 6 he may be the most interesting.
1 Kings 15 & 16 go through 6 kings of Israel (all during the reign of one king in Judah - Asa) and several different dynasties, ending with the father of king Ahab - Omri. Not much is written about him, but of the 6 he may be the most interesting.
In the life of king Asa, we see a man who did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He was a very good king who didn't finish as strong as he began. He won a great battle when he was outnumbered greatly, because he relied on the Lord. Decades later he won another battle, but even though every thing worked out well, God was not pleased. Just because things work out doesn't mean God is pleased when His eyes were set on a better outcome.
In the life of king Asa, we see a man who did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He was a very good king who didn't finish as strong as he began. He won a great battle when he was outnumbered greatly, because he relied on the Lord. Decades later he won another battle, but even though every thing worked out well, God was not pleased. Just because things work out doesn't mean God is pleased when His eyes were set on a better outcome.
In the book of 1 Kings, it only gives us a little information into the reign of Abijah (or Abijam) but nothing that would show us he was a bad king. So, we go to Chronicles to get the bigger picture and see a man who had a lot of zeal to do things for God, but lacked something that God was looking for.
In the book of 1 Kings, it only gives us a little information into the reign of Abijah (or Abijam) but nothing that would show us he was a bad king. So, we go to Chronicles to get the bigger picture and see a man who had a lot of zeal to do things for God, but lacked something that God was looking for.
Both the king of the northern tribes (Israel) and the king of the southern tribes (Judah) both fell into the temptation of idolatry. So in the New Testament when Paul teaches us that God " will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able..." (1 Corinthians 10:13) mean that He will block temptations from coming to you that are too great for you to bear? If so, why would these temptations gone unblocked when a whole nation fell into idolatry as a result? If this is not what is meant, what is God not allowing?
Both the king of the northern tribes (Israel) and the king of the southern tribes (Judah) both fell into the temptation of idolatry. So in the New Testament when Paul teaches us that God " will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able..." (1 Corinthians 10:13) mean that He will block temptations from coming to you that are too great for you to bear? If so, why would these temptations gone unblocked when a whole nation fell into idolatry as a result? If this is not what is meant, what is God not allowing?
A new king in to follow Solomon, Rehoboam takes the throne and goes to a northern city (not Jerusalem) to be put in the position of King of Israel. Find out why he goes to Shechem instead of the people coming to Jerusalem, and why things don't go so well in Shechem.
A new king in to follow Solomon, Rehoboam takes the throne and goes to a northern city (not Jerusalem) to be put in the position of King of Israel. Find out why he goes to Shechem instead of the people coming to Jerusalem, and why things don't go so well in Shechem.
The wisest man in the world was corrupted by the world through his multiple wives and his heart turns from God. A lesson to us all to always be on guard against the corruption around us!
The wisest man in the world was corrupted by the world through his multiple wives and his heart turns from God. A lesson to us all to always be on guard against the corruption around us!
The fame of Solomon's wisdom spreads and people come from all over to hear him, including this visit from the queen of Sheba.
The fame of Solomon's wisdom spreads and people come from all over to hear him, including this visit from the queen of Sheba.
God appears a second time to Solomon (20 years later) and has some interesting things to say to him, though they might not jump out at you at first.
God appears a second time to Solomon (20 years later) and has some interesting things to say to him, though they might not jump out at you at first.
The dedication service for the new Temple Solomon built for the Lord. We see what things God views as the mot important, and this list sometimes differs from ours (and even Solomon's.)
The dedication service for the new Temple Solomon built for the Lord. We see what things God views as the mot important, and this list sometimes differs from ours (and even Solomon's.)
The Bible gives us a very good look at the splendor of Solomon's temple. Why is it important for us to know all this? How expensive was the temple to finish?
The Bible gives us a very good look at the splendor of Solomon's temple. Why is it important for us to know all this? How expensive was the temple to finish?
Solomon builds the Temple of Jerusalem. God gave the design of the alter, the ark of the covenant, the pattern of the tabernacle, it's furnishings, and so much more to Moses, told Noah how to build the ark for the animals, but he never gave a layout for a temple. So where did Solomon come up with one? The answer may tell you why God speaks of rebuilding the tabernacle of David (Amos 9:11 & Acts 15:16) but not the temple of Solomon.
Solomon builds the Temple of Jerusalem. God gave the design of the alter, the ark of the covenant, the pattern of the tabernacle, it's furnishings, and so much more to Moses, told Noah how to build the ark for the animals, but he never gave a layout for a temple. So where did Solomon come up with one? The answer may tell you why God speaks of rebuilding the tabernacle of David (Amos 9:11 & Acts 15:16) but not the temple of Solomon.
After Solomon receives the wisdom from God he asked for, it is immediately tested. This test was actually in the making for some time, but it gets to Solomon right after he makes the request from God. When you receive something from God (wisdom, revelation, healing, blessing, etc.) it will be tested. The enemy doesn't want you to keep it!
After Solomon receives the wisdom from God he asked for, it is immediately tested. This test was actually in the making for some time, but it gets to Solomon right after he makes the request from God. When you receive something from God (wisdom, revelation, healing, blessing, etc.) it will be tested. The enemy doesn't want you to keep it!
Not everyone is happy with the new king (Solomon) and plans are made to remove him. But God gives him wisdom to see this and stop it in it's tracks. Just because plans are made against you, doesn't mean they will succeed!
Not everyone is happy with the new king (Solomon) and plans are made to remove him. But God gives him wisdom to see this and stop it in it's tracks. Just because plans are made against you, doesn't mean they will succeed!
David is Dying and the thrown needs to be passed to one of his sons before it is taken by one of them.
David is Dying and the thrown needs to be passed to one of his sons before it is taken by one of them.
Sister Ethel Waters teaches on how our fight with the enemy has been fixed, but there are somethings we need to know.
God does not desire to share the glory that should go to Him. Religion tries to share some of that glory or get us to glory in the wrong things. As Paul wraps up the epistle to the Galatian saints, see how you are doing in giving God the Glory.
God does not desire to share the glory that should go to Him. Religion tries to share some of that glory or get us to glory in the wrong things. As Paul wraps up the epistle to the Galatian saints, see how you are doing in giving God the Glory.
It is easier to keep doing good when we see the benefits, but how do we continue to do good when it doesn't seem to do anything? Paul teaches on this in these verses from Galatians.
It is easier to keep doing good when we see the benefits, but how do we continue to do good when it doesn't seem to do anything? Paul teaches on this in these verses from Galatians.
Someone came along and "hindered" the Galatian saints in the walk of faith. How did they accomplish this and how can we stop people from hindering us?
Someone came along and "hindered" the Galatian saints in the walk of faith. How did they accomplish this and how can we stop people from hindering us?
Taking a stand on something is spoken about often in the Bible, and is something too many Christians don't know to do. We look at Galatians 5:1 and do a word study on "Stand."
Taking a stand on something is spoken about often in the Bible, and is something too many Christians don't know to do. We look at Galatians 5:1 and do a word study on "Stand."
The sons of the bond woman (Hagar) and the sons of the free woman (Sarah) ... which one are you of?
The sons of the bond woman (Hagar) and the sons of the free woman (Sarah) ... which one are you of?
Paul compares a child in a house, who is an heir of all things, cannot touch any of it until something happens. In the same way neither will we access our inheritance until we are made sons.
Paul compares a child in a house, who is an heir of all things, cannot touch any of it until something happens. In the same way neither will we access our inheritance until we are made sons.
Who is behind the guarantee of a product is more important than the guarantee itself. As Christians, we should know that God stands behind all His promises!
Who is behind the guarantee of a product is more important than the guarantee itself. As Christians, we should know that God stands behind all His promises!
When was the last time you refused/forgot/ neglected to use what you knew in battle? This is one of the problems the Galatian church faces, and someone has bewitched them into not using what they know to do.
When was the last time you refused/forgot/ neglected to use what you knew in battle? This is one of the problems the Galatian church faces, and someone has bewitched them into not using what they know to do.
When we try and change the behavior of people we have influence over or are responsible for like children, who's pattern do we follow? Do we even know what God the Father's pattern is? Are we following another pattern instead because we think it will work better?
When we try and change the behavior of people we have influence over or are responsible for like children, who's pattern do we follow? Do we even know what God the Father's pattern is? Are we following another pattern instead because we think it will work better?
We can learn from Paul's story of his encounters with false brethren and false doctrine how we can become immune to anything that is not of the truth.
We can learn from Paul's story of his encounters with false brethren and false doctrine how we can become immune to anything that is not of the truth.
The first in a new series on the epistle to the Galatians, as Paul exhorts them for leaving the true Gospel for a fake one. How can we make sure we don't leave what is true, for what is fake?
The first in a new series on the epistle to the Galatians, as Paul exhorts them for leaving the true Gospel for a fake one. How can we make sure we don't leave what is true, for what is fake?
Even though Paul is only on the island of Malta because of a shipwreck, he still looks for and finds ministry opportunities
Even though Paul is only on the island of Malta because of a shipwreck, he still looks for and finds ministry opportunities
Paul's shipwreck on the island of Malta was not just an attack supernatural proportions, there was a whole lot of natural things going on that may surprise you. This shipwreck was no accident!
Paul's shipwreck on the island of Malta was not just an attack supernatural proportions, there was a whole lot of natural things going on that may surprise you. This shipwreck was no accident!
God said Paul would testify of God before kings, and so he is as he appears before Agrippa. So many people heard the gospel here who otherwise likely would not have.
God said Paul would testify of God before kings, and so he is as he appears before Agrippa. So many people heard the gospel here who otherwise likely would not have.
The difference between those who falsely accuse and those who stand on the Truth is clearly evident in this chapter. Learn how to recognize a lie from the truth based on the way people act when they present it.
The difference between those who falsely accuse and those who stand on the Truth is clearly evident in this chapter. Learn how to recognize a lie from the truth based on the way people act when they present it.
Paul is sent to Felix for his case to be heard. Many times we find ourselves in places like Paul: Being falsely accused of things by people who have actually committed the things they say you did.
Paul is sent to Felix for his case to be heard. Many times we find ourselves in places like Paul: Being falsely accused of things by people who have actually committed the things they say you did.
As we had looked at how we should respond positively, with an attitude of 'I can do it', more when people make requests of us, we now look at the question "Should I Ever Say No" when people ask something of me?
As we had looked at how we should respond positively, with an attitude of 'I can do it', more when people make requests of us, we now look at the question "Should I Ever Say No" when people ask something of me?
A Lot of assumptions are made in this chapter. Some by strong Christians. Assumptions will hurt us, so lets see how to recognize and avoid them.
A Lot of assumptions are made in this chapter. Some by strong Christians. Assumptions will hurt us, so lets see how to recognize and avoid them.
Paul, on his way to Jerusalem, encounters tears, warnings, emotional tugs, and a prophecy that had some problems. Still he is undeterred and continues towards Jerusalem. We look more at the question of should he have gone or were the warnings for him to stop? Also, what is wrong with the prophecy?
Paul, on his way to Jerusalem, encounters tears, warnings, emotional tugs, and a prophecy that had some problems. Still he is undeterred and continues towards Jerusalem. We look more at the question of should he have gone or were the warnings for him to stop? Also, what is wrong with the prophecy?
As Paul continues his journey to Jerusalem he is warned of the chains and tribulations to come. Paul says that none of these things move him ... so, what kind of things do move him and what should (or should not) move us? He also gives what he thinks are his last words to the pastors of Ephesus.
As Paul continues his journey to Jerusalem he is warned of the chains and tribulations to come. Paul says that none of these things move him ... so, what kind of things do move him and what should (or should not) move us? He also gives what he thinks are his last words to the pastors of Ephesus.
At Ephesus, the Bible says that "God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul," and "that even handkerchiefs and aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them." Should we expect this to happen today? Also, this is the first and only place in scripture where casting out of evil spirits is called exorcism. There is a reason why.
At Ephesus, the Bible says that "God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul," and "that even handkerchiefs and aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them." Should we expect this to happen today? Also, this is the first and only place in scripture where casting out of evil spirits is called exorcism. There is a reason why.
Priscilla and Aquila become even more instrumental to Paul, and a new major influencer of the church arises in Apollos. Paul comes to Ephesus for the second time and stays a lot longer.
Priscilla and Aquila become even more instrumental to Paul, and a new major influencer of the church arises in Apollos. Paul comes to Ephesus for the second time and stays a lot longer.
Paul comes to Corinth for the first time, he makes some important friends in Aquila and Priscilla, and undergoes so much persecution and threats that the Lord gives him a very special word.
Paul comes to Corinth for the first time, he makes some important friends in Aquila and Priscilla, and undergoes so much persecution and threats that the Lord gives him a very special word.
Paul on his second missionary Journey, goes to Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens the gospel is received in different ways and with varying results.
Paul on his second missionary Journey, goes to Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens the gospel is received in different ways and with varying results.
Paul and Barnabas decide to go back to the churches they visited on their first journey together, but get into a dispute over taking John Mark again, so Barnabas takes the southern part of the route with John Mark, and Paul takes the northern part with Silas. This chapter gives the details on what happened on Paul and Silas' Journey.
Paul and Barnabas decide to go back to the churches they visited on their first journey together, but get into a dispute over taking John Mark again, so Barnabas takes the southern part of the route with John Mark, and Paul takes the northern part with Silas. This chapter gives the details on what happened on Paul and Silas' Journey.
In Acts 15 A question arises in the church of what should be required of new believers. After some debate, James sends back a list of four “don’ts” to the church at Antioch. Was this beneficial to them? What should we require of new Christians as far as behavior or lifestyle changes? Should we ask for any at all? Are we truly ready for unsaved people to be added to the church? Do we expect them to get cleaned up first?
In Acts 15 A question arises in the church of what should be required of new believers. After some debate, James sends back a list of four “don’ts” to the church at Antioch. Was this beneficial to them? What should we require of new Christians as far as behavior or lifestyle changes? Should we ask for any at all? Are we truly ready for unsaved people to be added to the church? Do we expect them to get cleaned up first?
Paul and Barnabas are thought to be gods one day and then the people are ready to stone Paul. Does Paul die or is he just wounded, and what happens next?
Paul and Barnabas are thought to be gods one day and then the people are ready to stone Paul. Does Paul die or is he just wounded, and what happens next?
Luke writes in Acts 14 that "the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren." So, how does someone go about to poison the mind of another? If we learn how it is done, we can better understand how to prevent it from happening to us!
Luke writes in Acts 14 that "the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren." So, how does someone go about to poison the mind of another? If we learn how it is done, we can better understand how to prevent it from happening to us!
Paul and Barnabas begin their missionary journey at Cyprus and Pisidia, as they are sent out from Antioch. They begin with the Jews, but go to the gentiles once the Jews reject the message. Interesting how the same words bring joy to one group and bitterness to the other.
Paul and Barnabas begin their missionary journey at Cyprus and Pisidia, as they are sent out from Antioch. They begin with the Jews, but go to the gentiles once the Jews reject the message. Interesting how the same words bring joy to one group and bitterness to the other.
James is killed by Herod and Peter is arrested to be killed, but an angel shows up to break him out of jail. Afterwards Herod dies.
James is killed by Herod and Peter is arrested to be killed, but an angel shows up to break him out of jail. Afterwards Herod dies.
Peter arrives at Cornelius' home and discovered that they don't know what to ask him, and Peter wasn't told what to say. So, Peter opens his mouth and ... (thus has not always worked well in the past!)
Peter arrives at Cornelius' home and discovered that they don't know what to ask him, and Peter wasn't told what to say. So, Peter opens his mouth and ... (thus has not always worked well in the past!)
Peter has a vision that involves all sorts of unclean animals and is told to kill and eat. Though most people refer to this vision as abolishing the food laws, the real principle Peter was to learn had nothing to do with food ... and it is as clear as could be!
Peter has a vision that involves all sorts of unclean animals and is told to kill and eat. Though most people refer to this vision as abolishing the food laws, the real principle Peter was to learn had nothing to do with food ... and it is as clear as could be!
Phillip didn't have a whole lot of areas of ministry, but what he did do, what he was called to do, he did very well. We can learn how to be comfortable doing what we are called to and not becoming envious of what others do.
Phillip didn't have a whole lot of areas of ministry, but what he did do, what he was called to do, he did very well. We can learn how to be comfortable doing what we are called to and not becoming envious of what others do.
Stephen is brought into court for the miracles he did in the name of Jesus and gives a fantastic sermon inspired by the Holy Spirit!
Stephen is brought into court for the miracles he did in the name of Jesus and gives a fantastic sermon inspired by the Holy Spirit!
As the church began, the believers are said to hold the apostles in High Esteem. There is a reason why, and we look to find that out as we study chapter 5. We all desire to be esteemed by others, but are we willing to pay the price they did?
As the church began, the believers are said to hold the apostles in High Esteem. There is a reason why, and we look to find that out as we study chapter 5. We all desire to be esteemed by others, but are we willing to pay the price they did?
The passage in Acts here tells us that Ananias and Sapphira had their hearts filled by satan. How can satan fill the heart of a believer? It is not a question of can it happen, as it happened several other times that we are told of in the Word. We look at a few of those times as well so we can learn how NOT to leave the door to our heart open to the wrong source!
The passage in Acts here tells us that Ananias and Sapphira had their hearts filled by satan. How can satan fill the heart of a believer? It is not a question of can it happen, as it happened several other times that we are told of in the Word. We look at a few of those times as well so we can learn how NOT to leave the door to our heart open to the wrong source!
The problems bad leaders had when the church began is the same as the ones bad leaders have today. When leaders do not follow the way of God, they go in the way of the enemy and the signs are evident. Listen and see the comparison!
The problems bad leaders had when the church began is the same as the ones bad leaders have today. When leaders do not follow the way of God, they go in the way of the enemy and the signs are evident. Listen and see the comparison!
The second half of Peter's message on the day of Pentecost looking at the prophecy of the Messiah from David.
The second half of Peter's message on the day of Pentecost looking at the prophecy of the Messiah from David.
Looking at peter's sermon after the Spirit of God is poured out, we see that he quotes Joel's prophecy saying "this is that spoken by the prophet Joel." But when you compare what Peter says and what Joel wrote you will notice a word has been changed and it changes the application of the Joel prophecy. This is not an error on Peter's part, but the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to understand that the prophecy was intended for more then was understood.
Looking at peter's sermon after the Spirit of God is poured out, we see that he quotes Joel's prophecy saying "this is that spoken by the prophet Joel." But when you compare what Peter says and what Joel wrote you will notice a word has been changed and it changes the application of the Joel prophecy. This is not an error on Peter's part, but the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to understand that the prophecy was intended for more then was understood.
Looking at the events leading up to the pouring out of the Holy Spirit and when it actually came!
Looking at the events leading up to the pouring out of the Holy Spirit and when it actually came!
Beginning a new series on the book of Acts, we look at the author (Luke), the first events of the book with the ascension of Jesus, His promised return, and the 11 disciples of Jesus ... whatever became of them?
Beginning a new series on the book of Acts, we look at the author (Luke), the first events of the book with the ascension of Jesus, His promised return, and the 11 disciples of Jesus ... whatever became of them?
Ethel Waters took the midweek service "From Where Did It Come." Using people in the Bible like Abraham, Joseph, and David we look at where certain non biblical attitudes came from.
The final church in the 7 churches of Revelation with Laodicea. This is known as the lukewarm church and we will see why. They are counseled by the Lord to buy from Him gold refined in the fire. How can we buy this gold? It must be possible or they wouldn’t have been told to do so. There are several phrases from this letter we are all very familiar with, but you may not know they come from here.
The final church in the 7 churches of Revelation with Laodicea. This is known as the lukewarm church and we will see why. They are counseled by the Lord to buy from Him gold refined in the fire. How can we buy this gold? It must be possible or they wouldn’t have been told to do so. There are several phrases from this letter we are all very familiar with, but you may not know they come from here.
In this letter to the church of Philadelphia, Jesus speaks to them of a door He has opened and no one can shut. Jesus has the power (strength) and key of David (authority) to open doors for His churches. It is then our responsibility to go thru them! What door has He opened for us?
In this letter to the church of Philadelphia, Jesus speaks to them of a door He has opened and no one can shut. Jesus has the power (strength) and key of David (authority) to open doors for His churches. It is then our responsibility to go thru them! What door has He opened for us?
Finishing up the letter to the church of Sardis, Jesus commanded them to do five things; Be Watchful and strengthen, remember, hold fast, and repent. In part one we focused on the first two, and in this one we examine the last three, Remember, hold fast, and repent.
Finishing up the letter to the church of Sardis, Jesus commanded them to do five things; Be Watchful and strengthen, remember, hold fast, and repent. In part one we focused on the first two, and in this one we examine the last three, Remember, hold fast, and repent.
Praised for their love, faith, works, but reprimanded for their tolerance of false teachers the church of Thyatira was the smallest of the 7 churches, but received the longest letter. The Jezebel of the New Testament is found here. See what the warnings mean for us today.
Praised for their love, faith, works, but reprimanded for their tolerance of false teachers the church of Thyatira was the smallest of the 7 churches, but received the longest letter. The Jezebel of the New Testament is found here. See what the warnings mean for us today.
It is said that Pergamos was one of if not the hardest cities to live in if you were a Christian. Here is a look at what they went thru and the moral and doctrinal decay working in their midst.
It is said that Pergamos was one of if not the hardest cities to live in if you were a Christian. Here is a look at what they went thru and the moral and doctrinal decay working in their midst.
The church of Smyrna was one of the most persecuted churches of the day, and these are the Words of the head of the church to them. Some of the things they face were people assuming things against them without facts or investigation, and the hearers accepting the charges without any investigation. As we go thru what this church faced, you will see some of the same attitudes rising up today against the church. Though in a much smaller scale then that at Smyrna, we learn what to do and to be prepared should it grow worse.
The church of Smyrna was one of the most persecuted churches of the day, and these are the Words of the head of the church to them. Some of the things they face were people assuming things against them without facts or investigation, and the hearers accepting the charges without any investigation. As we go thru what this church faced, you will see some of the same attitudes rising up today against the church. Though in a much smaller scale then that at Smyrna, we learn what to do and to be prepared should it grow worse.
Looking at the letter to the first of the seven churches - Ephesus. Size and influence are not as important to God as doing and holding to the things that He considers important.
Looking at the letter to the first of the seven churches - Ephesus. Size and influence are not as important to God as doing and holding to the things that He considers important.
Here is a look at Blind Bartimeus as a man who had faith to be healed, but was still blind. Find out what he gave God to work with.
Here is a look at Blind Bartimeus as a man who had faith to be healed, but was still blind. Find out what he gave God to work with.
From the new series on the 7 Churches of Revelation, here is the first one ... the introduction.
From the new series on the 7 Churches of Revelation, here is the first one ... the introduction.
Only two times did Jesus call a persons faith "great" ... this is a look at the time with the centurion. What makes faith great? How does your faith measure up to this encounter?
Only two times did Jesus call a persons faith "great" ... this is a look at the time with the centurion. What makes faith great? How does your faith measure up to this encounter?
Paul's words to those who are masters, those who are rich, and those who are people of God gives us principles to live by no matter who we are. One real important thing to get from this passage is the words we use are not as important as the principles we live by.
Paul's words to those who are masters, those who are rich, and those who are people of God gives us principles to live by no matter who we are. One real important thing to get from this passage is the words we use are not as important as the principles we live by.
Paul gives Timothy some instructions on how to treat certain members of the church such as widows (which he separates into 4 kinds of widows). We can learn a good deal on how to treat certain ones in the church who need more ministry than others.
Paul gives Timothy some instructions on how to treat certain members of the church such as widows (which he separates into 4 kinds of widows). We can learn a good deal on how to treat certain ones in the church who need more ministry than others.
Paul instructs Timothy on what makes a good minister of the gospel. We can also derive from the list the qualities of a good follower of Christ.
Paul instructs Timothy on what makes a good minister of the gospel. We can also derive from the list the qualities of a good follower of Christ.
The qualifications for Deacons. How are they different from those for the overseer and what does a deacon do?
The qualifications for Deacons. How are they different from those for the overseer and what does a deacon do?
Looking at the qualifications of an overseer, we see qualities that are good to strive for in all of us. We look to try and clear up the meaning of each of these qualities since the wording seems very close.
Looking at the qualifications of an overseer, we see qualities that are good to strive for in all of us. We look to try and clear up the meaning of each of these qualities since the wording seems very close.
In 1 Timothy 3 Paul list some qualifications for leaders, but the first one is easy to miss ... it must be something you desire!
In 1 Timothy 3 Paul list some qualifications for leaders, but the first one is easy to miss ... it must be something you desire!
Paul teaches us about praying for all men and rulers everywhere and the role of women in the church
Paul teaches us about praying for all men and rulers everywhere and the role of women in the church
Beginning at Ch. 1:18, looking at the things charged to each one of us, the prophecies made to Timothy and how that relates to some that may have been made to us, Paul’s dealings with people who did him harm, how to avoid shipwreck, and what the blaspheme of the Holy Spirit is. Lots to study on in these three verses!
Beginning at Ch. 1:18, looking at the things charged to each one of us, the prophecies made to Timothy and how that relates to some that may have been made to us, Paul’s dealings with people who did him harm, how to avoid shipwreck, and what the blaspheme of the Holy Spirit is. Lots to study on in these three verses!
The attitude of being “Thankful and Grateful” -- how important it is to our Christian walk, and yet so easy to get away from. Paul lists three things he is thankful for and, for the same reasons, we need to know what specifically we are thankful for. In these five verse, we see three things that will impact Timothy’s service for God, and also our own.
The attitude of being “Thankful and Grateful” -- how important it is to our Christian walk, and yet so easy to get away from. Paul lists three things he is thankful for and, for the same reasons, we need to know what specifically we are thankful for. In these five verse, we see three things that will impact Timothy’s service for God, and also our own.
Why does Paul use the greeting he does in all his letters? What do these words mean to the people of the day and why is mercy added to this greeting? Paul gives us the purpose of doctrine and of the instructions given to us, and what their end result should be. Much more than can be listed here, but you can listen now.
Why does Paul use the greeting he does in all his letters? What do these words mean to the people of the day and why is mercy added to this greeting? Paul gives us the purpose of doctrine and of the instructions given to us, and what their end result should be. Much more than can be listed here, but you can listen now.
How easy it is for what begins right to become corrupted. Israel enters the promised land with true worship and how quickly it becomes corrupted. How can we prevent this?
How easy it is for what begins right to become corrupted. Israel enters the promised land with true worship and how quickly it becomes corrupted. How can we prevent this?
The end of Samson’s life in Judges 16 as this man anointed with strength to deliver Israel from their enemies, was brought down by a woman he fell in love with ... Delilah. We looked at a number of life issues in this one, including some pitfalls of dating and how to avoid them.
The end of Samson’s life in Judges 16 as this man anointed with strength to deliver Israel from their enemies, was brought down by a woman he fell in love with ... Delilah. We looked at a number of life issues in this one, including some pitfalls of dating and how to avoid them.
Why does Samson's Riddle make it into the Bible? Read it; it's not funny, it has no spiritual significance, and it is giving by a man dominated by his flesh. Well, we look into why this one is in the Bible, and we come to a surprise ending that wasn't even in the notes!
Why does Samson's Riddle make it into the Bible? Read it; it's not funny, it has no spiritual significance, and it is giving by a man dominated by his flesh. Well, we look into why this one is in the Bible, and we come to a surprise ending that wasn't even in the notes!
This is the Saturday night session and involved some teaching in the beginning and a lot of ministry afterwards.
Continuing with the life of Samson, we see him doing the same thing many of us have done ... flirting with disaster! We look at how God is using us and determine that our disobedience isn't important. At the end, we look at the difference between God's mercy, His grace, and His favor. See what you think!
Continuing with the life of Samson, we see him doing the same thing many of us have done ... flirting with disaster! We look at how God is using us and determine that our disobedience isn't important. At the end, we look at the difference between God's mercy, His grace, and His favor. See what you think!
After finishing up with Jephthah, we move on to the birth of Samson. Samson's problems in life came about because of a problem with his parents view of him, and the lack of balance between character and anointing.
After finishing up with Jephthah, we move on to the birth of Samson. Samson's problems in life came about because of a problem with his parents view of him, and the lack of balance between character and anointing.
A Study of the Judge of Israel Jephthah, and the vow he made that ended up involving his daughter in a very misunderstood and misapplied story from the Bible.
A Study of the Judge of Israel Jephthah, and the vow he made that ended up involving his daughter in a very misunderstood and misapplied story from the Bible.
Why did Israel have such a hard time being faithful to God during the time of the Judges? We find our answer here. It is also the reason people today have difficulty being faithful to God. Think you know what it is? Listen and see ...
Why did Israel have such a hard time being faithful to God during the time of the Judges? We find our answer here. It is also the reason people today have difficulty being faithful to God. Think you know what it is? Listen and see ...
A great victory over the Canaanite king Jabin led by Barak. We see the role Deborah played in this and learn how important is it to grow and mature ourselves so that we can know the voice of God and the direction He gives us and not just rely on others around us.
A great victory over the Canaanite king Jabin led by Barak. We see the role Deborah played in this and learn how important is it to grow and mature ourselves so that we can know the voice of God and the direction He gives us and not just rely on others around us.
The first Judges for Israel are not the most well know, but give us plenty to learn from. One example is how long it takes for the cries of God's people to be "heard" compared to how quickly faith is. There is a big difference between cries and faith ... do you know what it is?
The first Judges for Israel are not the most well know, but give us plenty to learn from. One example is how long it takes for the cries of God's people to be "heard" compared to how quickly faith is. There is a big difference between cries and faith ... do you know what it is?
In Judges Ch.2, we look at the passing of a great generation and the rise of a new one. Why do some characteristics seem to dominate a generation? How did a one that was so strong precede one so weak? When a weak generation arises, is it the fault of those before who did not teach them, or can it be something else?
In Judges Ch.2, we look at the passing of a great generation and the rise of a new one. Why do some characteristics seem to dominate a generation? How did a one that was so strong precede one so weak? When a weak generation arises, is it the fault of those before who did not teach them, or can it be something else?
Judges opens with a description of an incomplete conquest of the promised land ... What caused this? There are four parts to achieving the victory in our lives that God has declared is ours. How are you doing in these?
Judges opens with a description of an incomplete conquest of the promised land ... What caused this? There are four parts to achieving the victory in our lives that God has declared is ours. How are you doing in these?
What force did Jesus go into battle with? The disciples looked at the two swords they had, but Jesus had a very different perspective. The force that came against Jesus was unusually large just to arrest one man. Very often, we focus on what is against us and what we see that we have on our side, and miss what we are to go into battle with.
What force did Jesus go into battle with? The disciples looked at the two swords they had, but Jesus had a very different perspective. The force that came against Jesus was unusually large just to arrest one man. Very often, we focus on what is against us and what we see that we have on our side, and miss what we are to go into battle with.
We looked at what it is to “take up your cross” as Jesus gave command to do on several occasions. What most people call “carrying their cross” is not what Jesus intended, so to see what He meant we looked at what happened when He carried His cross and applied it to our life.
We looked at what it is to “take up your cross” as Jesus gave command to do on several occasions. What most people call “carrying their cross” is not what Jesus intended, so to see what He meant we looked at what happened when He carried His cross and applied it to our life.
Before Joshua life on earth ends, he addresses first the leaders of Israel and then the people. What would your last words be if you were Joshua?
Before Joshua life on earth ends, he addresses first the leaders of Israel and then the people. What would your last words be if you were Joshua?
With the war over, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half the tribe of Manasseh were praised, blessed, and sent home across the Jordan. On the way they stopped to building something that almost began a civil war. The way this issue grew so big is a great lesson for our own life conflicts!
Why is so much time spent going over the divisions of the land of Israel? The reasons may surprise you. And they actually impact the way you live the Christian life!
Why is so much time spent going over the divisions of the land of Israel? The reasons may surprise you. And they actually impact the way you live the Christian life!
After a big victory over the five kings, Israel finds an even bigger multitude coming after them now. Have you ever thought you deserve a rest after a big victory over the enemy? Why is it we don't always get one?
After a big victory over the five kings, Israel finds an even bigger multitude coming after them now. Have you ever thought you deserve a rest after a big victory over the enemy? Why is it we don't always get one?
Joshua and Israel take on the large multitude from the five kings that banded together. We look at the battle and Joshua's prayer to have the moon and sun stand still.
Joshua and Israel take on the large multitude from the five kings that banded together. We look at the battle and Joshua's prayer to have the moon and sun stand still.
As Five kings gather together and Israel rises to meet them in battle, there is an interesting twist in the story. We not only know the names of the cities, but now the names of the kings are also made known. As we look at the names and their meaning, an interesting pattern emerges.
As Five kings gather together and Israel rises to meet them in battle, there is an interesting twist in the story. We not only know the names of the cities, but now the names of the kings are also made known. As we look at the names and their meaning, an interesting pattern emerges.
The Gibeonites come to make a treaty, based on deception. Once again we see that the quicker the response becomes necessary, the more likely you are to respond from your flesh.
The Gibeonites come to make a treaty, based on deception. Once again we see that the quicker the response becomes necessary, the more likely you are to respond from your flesh.
After the victory over the stronger city in Jericho, the Children of Israel losses the battle with the much smaller and less powerful Ai. The reasons are helpful to show us why we don't stand against some of our enemies.
After the victory over the stronger city in Jericho, the Children of Israel losses the battle with the much smaller and less powerful Ai. The reasons are helpful to show us why we don't stand against some of our enemies.
The battle for Jericho is finally underway, but before they march on the city, God has a very unusual request for them. We also see how well people follow instructions is a testimony of their faith....
The battle for Jericho is finally underway, but before they march on the city, God has a very unusual request for them. We also see how well people follow instructions is a testimony of their faith....
Crossing the Jordan has a lot of differences when compared to the crossing of the Red Sea. What is their significance?
Crossing the Jordan has a lot of differences when compared to the crossing of the Red Sea. What is their significance?
The faith of Rahab is referred to number of times in the Bible. We look at the her encounter with the spies to see why.
The faith of Rahab is referred to number of times in the Bible. We look at the her encounter with the spies to see why.
A new Wednesday Night series on the book of Joshua. In this one, leadership transitions from Moses to Joshua and what God speaks to Joshua.
A new Wednesday Night series on the book of Joshua. In this one, leadership transitions from Moses to Joshua and what God speaks to Joshua.
A look at the temptation of Jesus. Did the Holy Spirit lead Jesus into the wilderness for the purpose of being tempted? We also look at what temptation is.
A look at the temptation of Jesus. Did the Holy Spirit lead Jesus into the wilderness for the purpose of being tempted? We also look at what temptation is.
Bringing the series on the epistle of Ephesians to a close, we look at Paul's final words and his request for prayer? What is Paul asking them to pray about for him?
Bringing the series on the epistle of Ephesians to a close, we look at Paul's final words and his request for prayer? What is Paul asking them to pray about for him?
What does Paul mean when he tells us to be watchful in prayer? Jesus also uses this phrase. Is this kind of watchfulness involved when you pray?
What does Paul mean when he tells us to be watchful in prayer? Jesus also uses this phrase. Is this kind of watchfulness involved when you pray?
As we continue to look at "Praying always with all prayer" we go to two of the prayers of Jesus to learn about limitations and possibilities in prayer.
As we continue to look at "Praying always with all prayer" we go to two of the prayers of Jesus to learn about limitations and possibilities in prayer.
As Paul tells us to pray always with all prayer, we look at the types of prayer the Word demonstrates.
What the Helmet of Salvation is, what it protects us from, and how it has been used in the Bible.
What the Helmet of Salvation is, what it protects us from, and how it has been used in the Bible.
What schemes of the enemy does the shield of faith protect us against and how was it used in the Bible?
What schemes of the enemy does the shield of faith protect us against and how was it used in the Bible?
As we continue looking at the armor of God we take on the shoes of peace this time, both as a defensive and offensive weapon. We look at what from the enemy it is designed to counteract, and how others used it in the Word.
As we continue looking at the armor of God we take on the shoes of peace this time, both as a defensive and offensive weapon. We look at what from the enemy it is designed to counteract, and how others used it in the Word.
Looking at the first two pieces of armor Paul lists here in Ephesians, how the 'belt' of truth and the breastplate of righteousness are designed to fend off the attacks of the enemy and how they were used (or not used) by believers in the Bible.
Looking at the first two pieces of armor Paul lists here in Ephesians, how the 'belt' of truth and the breastplate of righteousness are designed to fend off the attacks of the enemy and how they were used (or not used) by believers in the Bible.
An introduction to the armor of God, looking at how we will be breaking this chapter down. We also look into the clues in the text that show us how important to our well being Paul sees this teaching.
An introduction to the armor of God, looking at how we will be breaking this chapter down. We also look into the clues in the text that show us how important to our well being Paul sees this teaching.
Our tendency in relationships is to magnify flaws we see in others instead of focusing on exemplifying the Godly pattern.
Our tendency in relationships is to magnify flaws we see in others instead of focusing on exemplifying the Godly pattern.
We focus on three phrases in this teaching from Ephesians. (1) "Walk Circumspectly" (2) "Redeeming the Time" and (3) "Be Filled With the Spirit." The last one we tend to be the most familiar with its meaning, but the first two may surprise you.
We focus on three phrases in this teaching from Ephesians. (1) "Walk Circumspectly" (2) "Redeeming the Time" and (3) "Be Filled With the Spirit." The last one we tend to be the most familiar with its meaning, but the first two may surprise you.
Once we were in darkness, but now we are in light. What is meant by the phrases "walk as children of light" and "have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness?"
Once we were in darkness, but now we are in light. What is meant by the phrases "walk as children of light" and "have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness?"
There is one body, but many parts. Paul teaches on the importance of them and how we are all to grow.
There is one body, but many parts. Paul teaches on the importance of them and how we are all to grow.
A look at the error of the Judgment Day May 21st 2011 group that has billboards, trucks, and the like to advertise their prediction. We look at their own material they hand out on this and compare it to the Word of God.
A study of the different ages God set up, why He did that, and how the one we live in is different. What should we do to live in the age the way God intended?
A study of the different ages God set up, why He did that, and how the one we live in is different. What should we do to live in the age the way God intended?
Some things come to us through God's grace and some through His mercy. There are also those that come through grace and by faith. Do you know the difference?
Some things come to us through God's grace and some through His mercy. There are also those that come through grace and by faith. Do you know the difference?
A study of the prayer Paul prays for the saints in the opening of this epistle. We look at the prayers progression and purpose so we understand how to pray it for ourselves and others.
A study of the prayer Paul prays for the saints in the opening of this epistle. We look at the prayers progression and purpose so we understand how to pray it for ourselves and others.
Do all things that happen to us come from God? Are they allowed by God? Are all things God's will? We cover these and other questions about the things that come into our lives in this teaching from Ephesians.
Do all things that happen to us come from God? Are they allowed by God? Are all things God's will? We cover these and other questions about the things that come into our lives in this teaching from Ephesians.
A look at the very controversial doctrine of predestination. Many times this topic is examined as to what the Word TEACHES on the topic, but in this one we also look at how is Predestination demonstrated in the lives of those in the Word? Seeing how this doctrine affects those in the Bible tells us a lot about what is actually taught.
A look at the very controversial doctrine of predestination. Many times this topic is examined as to what the Word TEACHES on the topic, but in this one we also look at how is Predestination demonstrated in the lives of those in the Word? Seeing how this doctrine affects those in the Bible tells us a lot about what is actually taught.
An introduction to the series and a look at what it means to be "blessed with every spiritual blessing."
An introduction to the series and a look at what it means to be "blessed with every spiritual blessing."
A new political group was formed called "No Labels" and prompted me to ask 'Does God use labels with people?' In this teaching we go through the Word to find the answer and see what impact that should have on us.
A new political group was formed called "No Labels" and prompted me to ask 'Does God use labels with people?' In this teaching we go through the Word to find the answer and see what impact that should have on us.
Now the Jewish people are authorized to defend themselves. We also look at how the book of Esther fits in the timeline of that era, if Esther had any children with the king, who they might be, and what affect they had on history.
Now the Jewish people are authorized to defend themselves. We also look at how the book of Esther fits in the timeline of that era, if Esther had any children with the king, who they might be, and what affect they had on history.
How the plans of the unrighteous can backfire when they target God's children! (There was some feedback on this recording. The loud ones were removed, but there are some lower, ringing ones that couldn't be without making the teaching sound choppy.)
How the plans of the unrighteous can backfire when they target God's children! (There was some feedback on this recording. The loud ones were removed, but there are some lower, ringing ones that couldn't be without making the teaching sound choppy.)
A plot is hatched against the Israelites by Haman. What lessons are here for us to learn from what got Haman mad and Esther's decision to approach the king.
A plot is hatched against the Israelites by Haman. What lessons are here for us to learn from what got Haman mad and Esther's decision to approach the king.
Was it God's will for Esther to become queen to the Persian king so He could deliver Israel from a coming crisis?
Was it God's will for Esther to become queen to the Persian king so He could deliver Israel from a coming crisis?
A parable from which a lot of wrong interpretations have come from. What kind of persistence in prayer was Jesus teaching us about?
A parable from which a lot of wrong interpretations have come from. What kind of persistence in prayer was Jesus teaching us about?
Why was the rich man condemned for wanting to build bigger barns to hold his great harvest?
A friend comes at midnight for bread, but when do we need to pound on God's door to get Him to answer?
This mp3 start a few minutes into the service.
In the Parable of the Wedding Feast, what is the purpose of the feast, the guests, the invitations and Parable overall? What about the guest who was removed? How does this parable differ from the other about the invitations given and their responses?
In the Parable of the Wedding Feast, what is the purpose of the feast, the guests, the invitations and Parable overall? What about the guest who was removed? How does this parable differ from the other about the invitations given and their responses?
In this parable we see a different purpose in giving the parable and an emphasis on what we didn't do. There is a song we played at the end by Kevin LeVar & One Sound entitled "A Heart That Forgives." Can't post the song in this podcast, but you can hear it if you look it up on iTunes or such.
In this parable we see a different purpose in giving the parable and an emphasis on what we didn't do. There is a song we played at the end by Kevin LeVar & One Sound entitled "A Heart That Forgives." Can't post the song in this podcast, but you can hear it if you look it up on iTunes or such.
The final two parables Jesus taught in this set. The dragnet has many similarities to the wheat and the tares along with some differences, and the final one brings it all together.
The final two parables Jesus taught in this set. The dragnet has many similarities to the wheat and the tares along with some differences, and the final one brings it all together.
Our Good Friday service looking at the crown of thorns placed on Jesus, how it got there, and what it means.
In this teaching we cover three Parables: the tares and the wheat, mustard seed, and the leaven. Often misunderstood, learn the warning Jesus was giving about the kingdom of heaven on earth.
In this teaching we cover three Parables: the tares and the wheat, mustard seed, and the leaven. Often misunderstood, learn the warning Jesus was giving about the kingdom of heaven on earth.
Finishing the flood of Noah, as the waters receded a new environment is established, and a very important covenant is made.
Finishing the flood of Noah, as the waters receded a new environment is established, and a very important covenant is made.
The flood of Noah, its possible cause, long term affects, and the role of Noah before the rain started.
The flood of Noah, its possible cause, long term affects, and the role of Noah before the rain started.
What can possibly be learned from the genealogies! We look at the men of God described in the word, and the preparation Enoch did to get the world ready for a flood.
What can possibly be learned from the genealogies! We look at the men of God described in the word, and the preparation Enoch did to get the world ready for a flood.
Where did Cain and his brothers get their wives from? What was the mark on Cain? And other questions answered from the chapter with the first murder.
Where did Cain and his brothers get their wives from? What was the mark on Cain? And other questions answered from the chapter with the first murder.
A look at the fall of man, and the curse that came upon them. What of this curse today?
A look at the fall of man, and the curse that came upon them. What of this curse today?
When the world was put in order again and populated with plants and animals, a law was set in motion that is still in affect today. That single law by itself negates any possibility for evolution.
When the world was put in order again and populated with plants and animals, a law was set in motion that is still in affect today. That single law by itself negates any possibility for evolution.
The first three days of earth's reordering and how they all worked together to form "The Firmament."
The first three days of earth's reordering and how they all worked together to form "The Firmament."
What does the Bible say about creation? How old is the earth? Did God create the earth in six days?
What does the Bible say about creation? How old is the earth? Did God create the earth in six days?
Sometimes we need to speak from the Word and other times from the Spirit. What is the difference and can we tell what is called for?
The difference between sense realm actions and decisions and spirit realm actions and decisions.
It seems most Christian's have gone through spiritual setbacks, but knowing how they start can help us avoid them.
It seems most Christian's have gone through spiritual setbacks, but knowing how they start can help us avoid them.
What is the difference between the Power of God and the authority we have in the name of Jesus? How are each used?
Is the principle Jesus teaches in Matthew 18 one that involves us binding this and loosing that, or something different? We look at not only the principle taught, but also its demonstration in both old and new testaments.
Is the principle Jesus teaches in Matthew 18 one that involves us binding this and loosing that, or something different? We look at not only the principle taught, but also its demonstration in both old and new testaments.
Expectation is one of the most important ingredients in prayer. How can you tell if you have it or what can you do to get it?
What is the difference between prayers of supplication and prayers of intercession? How do I pray these type of prayers?
What is the difference between prayers of supplication and prayers of intercession? How do I pray these type of prayers?
What is the difference between the prayers of Petition and Dedication and what are the scriptures that apply to each?
What is the difference between the prayers of Petition and Dedication and what are the scriptures that apply to each?
There is a difference in speaking what is revealed to us BEFORE it is known then after everyone sees it!
Why does Jesus deal so harshly with Peter saying "Get Behind Me Satan" for Peters remarks about Jesus teaching on His approaching death and resurrection?
How can I tell if what I pick up in the spirit is God? What is the purpose of spiritual deceptions? If I know their purpose it is easier to identify them.
How can I tell if what I pick up in the spirit is God? What is the purpose of spiritual deceptions? If I know their purpose it is easier to identify them.
In this teaching we left a good part of the Question and Answer session at the end, as it was dealing with a part of the outline left out.
In this teaching we left a good part of the Question and Answer session at the end, as it was dealing with a part of the outline left out.
God's plan for us is to be able to defeat the tests and trials of life "Before it Matters!"
God's plan for us is to be able to defeat the tests and trials of life "Before it Matters!"
Miracles and blessings come to us as a result of our taking certain actions, but what actions produce each?
Miracles and blessings come to us as a result of our taking certain actions, but what actions produce each?
Usually spiritual setbacks are a wrong response to something simple, and most times the response has been building over time. Learn how to spot it and correct it.
Usually spiritual setbacks are a wrong response to something simple, and most times the response has been building over time. Learn how to spot it and correct it.