Big Woods Bible Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Big Woods Bible Church
12/15/2024 - "A Season of Hope, Joseph Receives and Reveals Hope"
Matthew 1:18-25, 2:13-14, 19-21
Mark 1:10-11, Mark1:14-15, Mark 8:34-35, Matt 4:7, Matt 4:18-22, Matt 4:25, Matt 25:24-30, Matt 28:19-20
Hebrews 12:28-29, Psalm 73:16-17, Revelations 7:9-10, I Corinthians 12:12-14, Ephesians 5:21, Romans 12:1
Matthew 16:19, 18:15-20, Acts 20:28, II Cor 2:5-8, I Timothy 3:1-13 II Timothy 4:3-4, Hebrews 13-17
How the World and the Flesh are No Match for the Spirit of God
I John 2:15-17, Romans 8:5-17, Galatians 5:16
7/4/2021 Giving Together - Why Corporate Stewardship Matters - What Is Stewardship? - Matt. 6:19-21
An Exciting Opportunity I Corinthians 3:16 - “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you
Romans 8:26-27
I. A Help with Prayer
II. A Response of Gratitude and Alignment
A. We Should be Grateful
B. We Should Work to Align Our Prayers to the Will of God
Romans 8:28-30
I. Resting in God’s Sovereignty
II. Trusting in Our Salvation
A. God Foreknew
B. God Predestined
C. God Called
D. God Justified
E. God Glorified
Romans 8:26-27
I. A Help with Prayer
II. A Response of Gratitude and Alignment
A. We Should be Grateful
B. We Should Work to Align Our Prayers to the Will of God
Romans 8:18-25
I. We Need to Bring the BIG Picture into Perspective (v. 18-23)
A. The World is Hurting
B. There is Help That is Offered
C. The Ultimate Source of Help is the Gospel that Promises Future Glory
II. We Need to Live in Light of the Hope That is to Come (v. 24-25)
Romans 8:14-17
I. We Have Been Adopted by Our Father (Identity) v. 14-15
II. We Have Been Given Access to Our Father (Intimacy) v. 15
III. We Will Be Glorified with Our Father (Inheritance) v. 17
Romans 8:5-11
I. Living in the Flesh Leads to a Sadness, Selfishness, and Suffering (vss. 5-8)
II. Living in the Spirit Leads to a Life Pleaseing to God and Eternal Presence with God (vss. 9-11)
Romans 8:1-4
I. Why is There No Condemnation?
II. How is There No Condemnation?
III. What is the Result of Living with No Condemnation?
The Power of the Resurrection - Philippians 3:7-11
I. Freedom from the Fear of Guilt and Shame
II. Freedom from the Fear of Death
III. Freedom from Being Under Destructive Powers and Authorities
Romans 8:1
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Confidence, Assurance, and Gratitude
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Much More in Jesus Christ
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To Help Me Live in Christ
-Know What is Right
-Desire What is Right
-Do What is Right
Romans 7:14-25
I. The Power of Sin No Longer Reigns, but the Presence of Sin Still Remains.
II. The Same Law that Cannot Justify the Sinner, Cannot Sanctify the Saint
III. The Grace of God Frees Us, Not from Persistence in the Battle, but from the Consequence of the Fight.
"As a result of grace, we have been saved from sin’s penalty. One day we will be saved from sin’s presence. In the meantime, we are being saved from sin’s power." - Alistair Begg
Romans 7:7-13
I. The Law is a Mirror - It Reflects the Sinfulness of Sin
II. The Law is a Hammer - It Ruins the Sinner
III. The Law is a Gift - It Points Us to Our Savior
When it comes to the law...
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Don’t be angry and frustrated.
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Be grateful for the gift of grace.
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See Jesus who fulfilled what we could not.
Romans 6:15-23
I. Being a Slave to Sin Leads to Great Bondage.
II. Being a Servant to Righteousness Leads to Greater Blessing
We have the blessing of being...
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Set Free from Sin
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Set Apart Through Sanctification
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Se Up with Eternal Life
Romans 6:12-14
I. If You Yield to Your Passions, Sin Will Reign
II. If You Yield to God, Grace Will Reign
To Yield to God We Must Specifically Yield To...
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The Word of God
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The Spirit of God
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The People of God
Romans 6:1-11
I. How to Walk the New Life
II. How to Love the Old Life
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
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Confess Sincerely - Go directly and immediately to the Lord and the one you have wronged.
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Invite Others In - Commit to transparency in relationships with others who are seeking to do the same
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Create Boundaries - Establish clear and achievable guidelines that assist in personal disciplines
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Immerse Completely - Set goals for time in the Word, prayer, worship, and serving.
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Establish Accountability - Schedule to meet personally with more than one person at a time.
Romans 5:12-21
I. One Trespass from the First Adam Brings Sin & Death
II. One Act of Righteousness from the Second Adam Brings Grace & Life
Romans 5:6-11
I. The When of Atonement
II. The Who is Atoned For
III. The What is Atonement
IV. The Result of Atonement
Romans 5:1-5
Taught By: Mike Fry
I. Through faith in Jesus we have received peace with God.
II. Through Jesus we receive the hope of the glory of God.
III. This hope allows us to rejoice in suffering.
Romans 4
I. Abraham Had Faith in God and God Alone
II. Abraham Acted on His Faith
III. Abraham Exemplified the Faith We Need
Mark 4:35-41
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Pray For and Obey Those in Authority
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Offer to Help the Sick and the Elderly
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Sacrifice and Spend Your Money "As an Act of Love"
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Share Good Information and Ignore Bad
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Serve and Pray for Our Healthcare Workers
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Feed and Watch Other People’s Kids if Schools are Closed
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Keep your Home Filled with Scripture, Songs, and Prayer
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Don’t Stop Trusting and Worshiping
Romans 3:21-31
I. The Standard - The Righteousness of God
II. The dilemma - The Unrighteousness of Man
III. The Solution - Righteousness Through Faith in Christ Jesus
A. Righteousness Revealed - v. 21
B. Righteousness Applied - vss. 22-25a
C. Righteousness Enjoyed - vss. 25b-31
Romans 3:9-20
II. The Dilemma - The Unrighteousness of Man
A. The Darkest of Nights - When everyone is under sin
B. The Brightest of Lights - When JESUS, the Son of God, arrives
Romans 3:1-8
I. The Standard - The Righteousness of God
A. God’s Righteousness is Heard Through His Word
B. God’s Righteousness is Seen Through His Faithfulness
C. God’s Righteousness is Demonstrate Through His Justice
Romans 2:12-29
I. With Openness - There are No Secrets in God’s Judgment
II. With Fairness - There is No Favoritism in God’s Judgment
III. With Graciousness - There is No Desire to Ruin in God’s Judgment
Psalm 100
I. A Command to be Thankful (vss 1-2, 4)
II. A Cause for Our Thanksgiving (vss 3,5)
Romans 2:1-11
I. Stop Thinking You are Better Than Other People
II. Start Trusting God Knows the Truth about All People
Romans 1:26-32
I. Dishonorable Passions
II. Debased Minds
III. Deserving Death
IV. Hope Offered
Romans 1:18-25
I. Wrath of God Revealed
II. Truth of God Suppressed
III. Hearts of Mankind Darkened
IV. Creator of Everything Is Blessed Forever
Romans 1:16-17
Four Truths Communicated In These Verses
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Power of God
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Salvation
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Revelation
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Righteousness of God
I. Assurance IN the Gospel Brings Boldness FOR the Gospel
II. Power OF God for Salvation Brings Faith IN God to Salvation.
Romans 1:8-15
I. Paul’s Credentials
II. Paul’s Concern
A. To Encourage Them Personally
B. To Be Encouraged By Them
C. To Strengthen Them Spiritually
Romans 1
I. Paul’s Credentials
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“A Servant”
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“Called to be an Apostle”
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“Set apart for the Gospel of God”
The Gospel, the Good News includes a…
Promise (v. 2)
Person (v. 3-4)
Provision (v. 5a)
Proclamation (v. 5b)
Purpose (v. 5c)
Privilege (v. 6-7)
Exodus 32-34
Dan Nauta
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We need God in our heart.
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We replace God with our own gods.
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God makes a way to satisfy our need.
Exodus 25-30
I. The Tabernacle we Costly - Expecting Sacrifice (Exodus 25:1-9)
II. The Tabernacle was Holy - Displaying Sacredness (Exodus 25-26)
III. The Tabernacle was Lovely - Offering Salvation (Leviticus 16; Hebrews 9-10)
II Corinthians 5:18-21
I. Our Responsibility - To Seek Reconciliation (vss. 18-19)
II. Our Role - To Serve As Ambassadors (vss. 20-21)
II Corinthians 5:16-17
I. The Secret is Out - "If anyone is in Christ, he/she is a new creation."
a. "a new creation" speaks of acceptance
b. "a new creation" speaks of assurance
c. "a new creation" speaks of inheritance
II. The Hope is Real - "The old has passed away, behold the new has come."
"From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passes away; behold, the new has come."
-II Corinthians 5:16-17
II Corinthians 5:11-15
I. We Care About Spiritual Integrity (vs. 11)
II. We Care About Personal Humility (vss. 12-13)
III. We Care About Gospel Purity (vss. 14-15)
II Corinthians 5:6-10
I. We Are Always of Good Courage (v. 6)
II. We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight (v. 7)
III. We Make it our Aim to Please Him (v. 9)
IV. We Must All Appear Before the Judgment Seat of Christ (v. 10)
II Corinthians 5:1-5
Taught By: Matt McDermit
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We know that our earthly bodies are temporal.
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We know that our heavenly bodies are eternal.
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We know that our groaning is normal.
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We know that our guarantee is final.
II Corinthians 4:16-18
"...this light momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison."
II Corinthians 4:13-15
I. Remember & Reflect on our Suffering Savior
II. Remember & Reflect on our Future Promise
III. Remember & Reflect on our Present Purpose
II Corinthians 4:7-12
I. Afflicted in every way but not crushed...
II. Perplexed but not driven to despair...
III. Persecuted but not forsaken...
IV. Struck down but not destroyed.
II Corinthians 4:1-6
I. We Do Not Lose Heart
II. We Refuse to Tamper with the Truth
III. We Proclaim Jesus Christ
Application:
A. We Need to confess that we have covered our light with a bushel/basket of discouragement.
B. We need to proclaim with word and show with action what it means to be, “light in darkness.’
C. We need to know this is going to be hard, and it’s not a “Let go and let God” moment.
"The Christian’s motto should not be ’Let go and let God’ but ’Trust God and get going!’” -J I Packer
Exodus 20:13-14
I. Your heart matters in maters of obedience
II. Anger is the seed from which murder grows
III. Make it right, right away
IV. Adultery starts in the heart
V. Go to great lengths to avoid lust
Exodus 20:12
I. Why Should You Honor Your Father and Mother?
A. To Live in Obedience
B. To Practice the Art of Honoring
II. How Do You Honor Your Father and Mother?
Exodus 20:8-11
(continued from last week)
III. The Lord’s Name is Holy - Treat it as Such
IV. The Lord’s Day is Holy - Treasure It as Sacred
Application
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Preparation is Key
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Public Worship is Necessary
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Pitfalls of Legalism must be Avoided
Exodus 20:1-6
I. You Should Not Replace God with an Idol
II. You Should Not Represent God with an Image
Exodus 18:9-26
I. Moses Accepts Wise Counsel
II. Moses Adjusts a Broken System
III. Moses Enjoys Shared Ministry
APPLICATION
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There is great danger in trying to do too much, even if it’s good work.
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There is nothing good that comes when one burns out in the work God has called you to.
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There is never a good reason to work completely alone.
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There is great effectiveness and reward in shared ministry.
Exodus 17:8-16
I. The Sword Reveals to Us We Cannot Be Passive in the Battle
II. The Staff Refocuses Us to God’s Power and Presence in the Midst of the Fight
III. The Banner Reminds Us of God’s Promise that He Will (and has) Overcome on Our Behalf
Exodus 17:1-7
I. People Who Are Constantly Grumbling Are Hard to Love – Yet God Still Loves
II. People Who Are Constantly Doubting Are Hard to Provide For – Yet God Still Provides
III. People Who are Constantly Sinning Are Hard to Forgive – Yet God Still Forgives
Exodus 16
I. God’s Provision was Supernatural
II. God’s Provision was Sufficient
III. God’s Provision was Sacred
Exodus 15:22-27
I. God Knows Your Needs – There is No Need to Grumble
II. God Promises Your Salvation – There is No Reason to Doubt
III. God Desires Your Obedience – There is No Eternal Value to Rebellion
Including:
Pastor Tim Boger, Big Woods Bible Church
Pastor Doug Packard, First Baptist of Lock Haven
Pastor Scott Garmin, Cedar Heights Brethren in Christ Church
Pastor Josh Grimes, The Common Place Church
Exodus 14:13-31
I. He Will Be With You in the Journey
II. He Will Save You in the Journey
III. He Will Give You Grace to Endure the Journey
Exodus 11:1 - 12:13
I. The Consequence of Sin is Death
II. The Conqueror of Sin is Jesus
Exodus 9-10
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Sixth Plague – Boils a Hurtin’
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Seventh Plague – Hail a Fallin’
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Eighth Plague – Locusts a Eatin’
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Ninth Plague – Darkness a Blindin’
God Will Do Whatever is Necessary to Get Your Attention
Exodus 8-11
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First Plague – Turnin’ the Nile into Blood
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Second Plague – Frogs a Jumpin’
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Third Plague – Gnats a Crawlin’
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Fourth Plague – Flies a Swarmin’
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Fifth Plague – Livestock a Dyin’
APPLICATION
A. Admit we have a tendency to put other things in place of our worship of the one true God.
B. Confess to God what idols you may have in your life.
C. Ask God to guard your heart from worshiping false Gods.
D. Ask God to guard your mind and mouth from making false confessions.
Exodus 7
Taught by: Brandon Zembower
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God show His power through both man’s obedience and disobedience.
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God shows His supremacy by humiliating the Egyptian gods.
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God shows His justice by revealing the blood required to pay for sin.
APPLICATION
-We strive to live in obedience to the Word.
-We trust in the supremacy of God.
-We seek to know God more.
Exodus 6:1-9
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Remember God, through the Gospel, Offers Salvation
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Remember God, through the Gospel, Offers Redemption
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Remember God, through the Gospel, Offers Adoption
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Remember God, through the Gospel, Offers Inheritance
Exodus 5
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Admit It
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Expect It
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Know You’re in Good Company
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Trust that God is at Work
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Learn from It
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Remember the Glory that Awaits
Exodus 2:1-10
I. We Can Learn How God, In His Grace, Protected Baby Moses.
II. We Can Learn How God, In His Grace Provided for Baby Moses.
III. We Can Learn How God, In His Grace, Has Protected and Provided for You Through Jesus.
Exodus 1
I. What’s an Exodus?
II. Why Exodus?
A. We Need to Know God Better than We Do.
B. We are Introduced to God’s Plan of Redemption for Mankind.
C. We Begin to Understand God’s Promises, Plan, and Purpose.
III. How Does Exodus Impact My Life Today?
A. We Have a Problem.
B. God Gives a Promise.
APPLICATION
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We are in bondage – Sin
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We are in need of redemption – Death
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We have been sent a Redeemer - Jesus
Matthew 5:33-37
I. Commit to be Truthful in Holiness
II. Commit to be Truthful in Faithfulness
Ephesians 3:14-21; Romans 12:3-8
Lesson #1 – Church is Bigger Than Any One Person
Lesson #2 – Christ is Bigger Than Any One Church
Lesson #3 – Nothing is Bigger than Christ
Mark 10:13-16
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The Kingdom of God is God’s Redemptive Reign
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We are Dependent on God for the Gift of Forgiveness and Salvation
-Our holiness is not enough
-Our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment – Isaiah 64:4
-Your Abilities are not enough
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We continue to be dependent on God for our Sanctification
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God is Always Available to Us
Colossians 4:2-18
THE GOSPEL
I. Advances Through Persistent Prayer
II. Is Confirmed In Our Lives by Wise Conduct
III. Has a Role for All Believers
Colossians 3:18-4:1
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We are not called to have power over, but power under. (See Matthew 20:25-28)
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Our lives are not only to be lived for others, but ultimately for the Lord.
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When we move on in maturity past what to do and into how to live, our lives will begin making an eternal impact.
Colossians 3:1-11
Following Jesus Means Joining His New Humanity.
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Mind Heavenly Things
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Understand We Died
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Crucify the Flesh
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Control Your Tongue
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Tell the Truth
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Rid Yourself of Prejudice
Colossians 3:12-17
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Put On Compassion
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Put On Kindness
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Put On Humility
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Put On Gentleness
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Put On Patience
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Put On Forgiveness
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test my thoughts. Point out anything you find in me that makes you sad, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. - Psalm 139:23, 24
Colossians 2:16-23
Drew Talbot
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Christ’s work on the cross alone secured your position with God.
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Christ’s work on the cross freed you from the slavery of cultural expectations.
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Christ’s work on the cross calls you into a deep relationship with Him.
Colossians 2:6-15
I. To Walk In Him Means to Live Like Christ
-Rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ
-Actively Building Ourselves Up to Maturity Through…
-God’s Word
-Prayer
-Teaching & Discipleship in the Church
-Being Ultimately Changed by the Holy Spirit
II. Our Response is to be with Praise and Thanksgiving
Colossians 1:24-2:5
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The Compulsion of Paul
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The Commission of the Proclaimers
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The Connection of the Church
Colossians 1:15-23
CHRIST IS SUPREME...
- In His Character
-He Is God
- In Creation
-Created By Him
-Created For Him
-He Was Before All
-He Upholds All Things
- In His Church
-Built On His Resurrection
-Indwelt By God’s Fullness
Why? That He Might Have The Preeiminence!
Colossians 1:1-8
Matt Trumbull
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We must have complete faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ
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We must rest our hope on heaven
APPLICATION
Read your Bible
-Consistently and constantly
-Study who God is, who you were, and who you are because of the Gospel - this should grow your love of the Gospel.
-Make not of what God has for you both now and in the future and set your mind on these things.
-Understand how he calls us to worship him with our sacrificial lives.
Pray
-Pray that God would reveal himself to you through his Word.
-Pray for brothers and sisters in the church, not just for needs in this world, but that God would reveal himself as they read and understand the Word.
-Pray that God would show and empower you to build up His church.
-Pray that you would love the Gospel more and more each day, and that you would focus in on what is eternal and stop spending effort on what is temporary.
Serve
-Join a home group.
-Work in a ministry.
-Be available for others.
-This gives you opportunity to worship God by responding to his love by loving one another.
Introduction to Colossians
Pastor Aaron Batdorf
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In order not to be swayed by false teaching, the Christian must be deeply rooted in Christ.
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Paul’s purpose for writing Colossians is that we would know the true Christ so we would never be fooled by the fakes.
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We must be firmly rooted in Christ so that as the winds of culture blow, we are not shaken.
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If you believe Jesus has supremacy over all things, live with your focus fixed on Jesus.
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We have no need to fear evil because Jesus has won.
Colossians 2:6, 7
Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
II Samuel 23
I. David’s Final Official Words
Like David, we too have been…
A. Raised on High (Col 3:1-2)
B. Anointed of God (Heb 1:9; I John 2:20)
C. Spoken to by God (John 10:27)
D. Given an Everlasting Covenant (Heb 13:20)
II. David’s Final Personal Words
Like Solomon, We Too Should…
A. Be Strong
B. Keep the Charge of the Lord
C. Walk in His Ways
D. Keep His Statutes, Commandments, Rules, and Testimonies
II Samuel 13-14
I. David Displays Anger Without Action
II. David Desires Reconciliation Without Repentance
III. David Finally Listens to Truth, Turns from His Sin, and Trusts His Savior
WHAT TO DO
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Learn of the devastating consequences of passivity.
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Know there is no greater responsibility than leading your children to the Lord.
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Lead in you commitment to the Word of God and consistency in your walk with God.
II Samuel 6
I. Holiness Matters Because it Sets the Creator Apart from Creation
II. Holiness Matters Because it Sets God’s People Apart from the World
A. Holiness Leads to Obedience
B. Holiness Leads Us to be More Like Christ
I Samuel 30
I. Rejection is an Opportunity for Reliance
II. Brokenness is an Opportunity for Blessing
I Samuel 25
I. Do Not Make Rash Decisions
II. Do Not Take Justice in Your Own Hands
III. Do Not Ignore Godly Wisdom
IV. Do Not Forget God’s Promises
I Samuel 24
I. Just as David Received Grace, So Have You.
II. Just as David Extended Grace, So Must You.
A. Showing Respect
B. Speaking Truth
C. Trusting God
REMEMBER: Forgiven People, Forgive People
I Samuel 18:6-16
I. Saul Shows Insane Jealousy When Confronted with David’s Success
II. David Shows Sincere Humility While Experiencing Success
III. It’s Humility, Not Jealousy, that Leads People to the Gospel of Jesus
APPLICATION
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Know God does not make mistakes in how He made you and where He placed you.
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Know that both success and failure can bring God glory.
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Strive to be more concerned about others than yourself.
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Strive to think like Jesus thinks and serve like Jesus served.
I Samuel 17
I. There is an Enemy that is Bigger than Goliath
II. There is a Hero that is Better than David
Is David and Goliath about facing our giants
Or about the Son of David who slayed the tyrant?
Over Satan He triumphed when He suffered and bled
Our representative King was crushin’ his head.
-Timothy Brindle "Headcrusher"
I Samuel 16:1-13
I. God Has a Plan to Rescue His People
II. God’s Plan is Generally Not Like Your Plan
III. God’s Plan is That You, Like David, Are Called for His Purpose
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Know there is a natural struggle within all of us to be more concerned about outward appearance than inward substance.
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Stop measuring other people (and yourself) according to outward expectations and strive for inward obedience.
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Trust just as God chose David, God has also chose you to be part of fulfilling His plan.
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Never underestimate King Jesus as only a helpless baby and wise teacher but see Him as the true and ultimate solution to the world’s greatest problem – the Savior who conquered sin and death.
Proverbs 3:5-6
We don’t trust God because…
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We have a heart condition
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We are much too self-sufficient
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We are too quick to call on others
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We are distant and don’t really know Him
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We have cultivated the bad habit of worrying
I Peter 4:7-11
I. We Stay On Track By Being Self-Controlled and Praying Faithfully
II. We Stay On Track By Loving Other People and Building Relationships
III. We Stay On Track By Using Our Gifts For His Glory
Psalm 1
- The Way of the Righteous (vss 1-3)
-The blessing of the way of the righteous is God himself
-Blessing is not a list of things to do, but rather a
summons of what to love
-There is simply no substitute for encountering God to
increase our delight in Him.
- The way of the wicked (vss 4-5)
-The wicked, instead of delighting in God, delight in self.
-Delighting in themselves, they turned their backs on God.
- Two final destinations (vs 6)
-The righteous are blessed and the wicked perish.
Philippians 4:21-23
I. We are to Give Grace
II. We are Reminded that We Have Received Grace
Philippians 4:14-20
I. Just as the Philippians Shared in Paul’s Trouble, We are to Share in One Another’s Trouble
II. Just as the Philippians Showed Their Generosity, We are to Show Our Generosity.
III. Just as the Lord Supplied Every Need for Paul and the Philippians, the Lord Will Supply Every Need We Have.
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Jesus Shared in Our Trouble
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Jesus Showed His Generosity
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Jesus Supplied Our Greatest Need
Philippians 4:10-13
I. Rejoicing in God’s Provision Leads to Contentment.
II. Learning About God’s Plan Leads to Contentment.
III. Trusting in God’s Power Leads to Contentment.
Philippians 4:10-13
I. Rejoicing in God’s Provision Leads to Contentment
A. Be content with who God has made you - don’t compete!
B. Be content with where God has placed you - don’t complain!
C. Be content with what God has given you - don’t compare!
Revelation 1:17, 18
When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.
Philippians 4:8
Philippians 4:8
I. Think About How a Divine Design Reveals the Glory of God and is Commendable
II. Think About How a Purposeful Plan Reveals the Glory of God and is Commendable
III. Think About How a Redemptive Reward Reveals the Glory of God and is Commendable
Philippians 4:8
I. God Himself is Lovely
II. The Word of God is Lovely
III. The Kingdom of God is Lovely
IV. Those Created in the Image of God (All People) are Lovely
V. The Creation of God (All Nature) is Lovely
Philippians 4:8
I. Rethink How You Think - Romans 12:1
II. Refocus What You Are Focusing On - Psalm 119:11
Life Application
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Take Responsibility
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Confess & Repent Sin
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Changes Patterns of Behavior
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Establish Accountability
Philippians 4:8
I. Think About What God’s Word Says, Not What Man Says
Sanctify them in the truth; Your Word is truth. - John 17:17
II. Live By What You Know to Be True, Not How You Feel
You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. -
John 8:32
III. Ask “Is It True?” Not “Does It Work?”
The Bereans…received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said
was true. -Acts 17:11
Philippians 4:4-7
I. Rejoicing in the Lord
II. Not Worrying About Things in the World
III. Praying With Thanksgiving
IV. Enjoying Peace that is Beyond Understanding
Philippians 4:1-3
I. Urging Others to Live in Unity
II. Helping Others Focus on Unity
A. By Remember Past Labors Together
B. By Reminding One Another of Future Eternal Life, Together
Philippians 3:12-16
I. Concentration to Stay Focused
II. Motivation to Move Forward
III. Determination to Finish Well
A. The Word of God
B. The People of God
Philippians 3:1-11
I. A Word of Warning
II. A Word of Testimony
III. A Word of Instruction
Philippians 3:1-11
I. A Word of Warning
II. A Word of Testimony
III. A Word of Instruction
Philippians 2:12-18
A. Do All Things Without Grumbling or Disputing
B. Lead With the Gospel – holding fast to the word of life
C. Learn to Rejoice Because of the Gospel – be glad and rejoice with me
Philippians 2:12-18
I. Pay Attention to the Details- ‘work out’ does not mean ‘work for’
II. Trust God to do the Dirty Work- He sent His Son to Save you and His Spirit to sanctify you
III. Shine as Bright Lights in a Dark World- A sanctified life will always stand out
Philippians 2:9-11
I. The Exaltation of Christ
II. The Submission of Mankind
A. The bending of our knees
B. The confession of our
tongues
Philippians 2:1-8
I. Focus on Yourself
II. Focus on Others
III. Focus on Christ
-
The power to properly focus on ourselves and to live like we need to live for others comes only through Jesus Christ.
-
Not only does Jesus give us what we need to live the Christian life, he has demonstrated exactly how we need to live that life.
Unity and holiness will come, and will only come as the mind of the community and individuals within it are transformed to reflect the mind of the Messiah himself. -N T Wright
Philippians 1:27-30
I. No Matter the Circumstances of Your Life, Live for Jesus
II. Gospel Promotion is the Full Time Job of Gospel Citizens
III. Unity is Highly Important to the Spread of the Gospel in Our Community
IV. We Have Nothing to Fear Because Jesus Rose from the Grave
Philippians 1:19-26
I. A Single Hope – Christ Will Deliver Me
II. A Single Mind – Christ Will Be My Identity
III. A Single Goal – Christ Will Be Glorified
"When everything considered valuable in life is seen to be nothing in comparison to the glory of Christ, you learn rather well that Christ alone is worth living for. Christ alone is worthy of an entire life’s affections and devotions." -Matt Chandler
Philippians 1:15-18
I. Some Preach Christ with a Wrong Motive
II. Some Preach Christ with a Right Motive
Application:
-
Know the truth of the Gospel
-
Examine your motives for proclaiming Christ
-
Commit to proclaim Christ out of a love for others, not yourself
-
Rejoice that Christ is being proclaimed and the Gospel will advance
Philippians 1:12-14
I. Pain and Suffering Serve to Advance the Gospel
II. Pain and Suffering Can Give Us Greater Boldness in the Gospel
Philippians 1:7-11
I. Joy in the Gospel Increased Paul’s Affection Toward Others
II. Joy in the Gospel Increases Our Affection Toward Others
"There can be no greater or more exhilarating joy than that produced by deep abiding and genuine affection for others." -John MacArthur
Philippians 1:6
I. You Can Have Confidence In Christ
II. You Can Be Made Complete Through Christ
A. Hold Tight to the Truth
B. Trust Jesus to be Your Savior and Make Your Life
Complete
Philippians 1:3-5
I. Thankful in Our Relationships
II. Faithful in Our Prayers
III. Useful in Our Work of the Gospel
Praying, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, unifies us because it helps us long for His Kingdom. It keeps us from backbiting, from jockeying for position, from longing to establish little kingdoms of our own. -John Onwuchekwa
Philippians 1:1, 2
I. Joy Is Needed
A. Because of the seeming
Futility of life
B. Because of the Constant
Friction with Others
II. Joy Is Promised
True biblical joy is…the settled conviction that God sovereignly controls all circumstances for a believer’s good and His glory.
John 13:34-35
I. How Are We to Love?
A. With Steadfast Love
B. With Sacrificial Love
II. Who Are We to Love?
-
Love God
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Love your spouse
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Love your children and grandchildren
-
Love your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ
-
Love your neighbor
-
Love your enemy
III. Why Are We to Love?
A. It’s a Commandment
B. It’s Our Identity
I Corinthians 8:1-9
I. It is to be a Matter of Willingness…Not a Matter of Wealth
II. It is to be an Opportunity…Not an Obligation
A. An opportunity to prove your love for others
B. An opportunity to follow Christ’s example
Joshua 3:14-17
I. Faith Must Be Grounded in the Word of the Lord
II. Faith Must Be Willing to Trust in More than the Visible
III. Faith Must Be Ready to Move Forward in Spite of Obstacles
I Peter 2:13-17
I. Show Respect for All People
II. Give Special Attention to the Family of God
III. Listen and Obey the Lord First
IV. Strive to be a Model Citizen
Fear God with the highest reverence, duty and submission; if this be wanting, none of the other three duties can be performed as they ought. -Matthew Henry
I Peter 2:11-17
I. Submission May Not Be Fun
II. Submission May Not Even Be Fair
III. Submission is For the Lord’s Sake...Not For Our Sake
I Peter 2:11-17
I. The Matter is Urgent
II. The Mission is Clear
"Expose your sin and Jesus will cover it. Cover your sin and Jesus will expose it." -J. D. Greear
John 14:1-3
I. Jesus Promised - He is preparing a place for those who believe in Him
II. Jesus Promised - He is going to return to get those who believe in Him.
A. Be Encouraged
B. Be Expectant
C. Be Excited
John 17:9
I. Jesus Prays for Himself to Glorify His Heavenly Father
II. Jesus Prays for His Followers to Glorify His Heavenly Father
A. How does Jesus intercede for us? Through the ministry of
the Holy Spirit.
B. Why does Jesus intercede for us? We cannot glorify God in
our unrighteousness.
III.
John 15:12-15
I. Jesus’ Friendship is Beyond Liking…It’s About Loving
II. Jesus’ Friendship is Beyond Getting…It’s About Giving
III. Our Friendship with Others Should Model Jesus’ Friendship with Us
A. We Are to Love Sincerely
B. We Are to Give Sacrificially
John 10:22-30
I. Jesus’ Claim is Twofold
A. I Am - A Claim to Deity
B. His Sheep Know His Voice
II. The Greatness of Our Eternal God Guarantees Our Eternal Life
III. The Guarantee Of Our Eternity
A. Emboldens Our Witness
B. Changes How You Live Now
C. Is Secured by God Himself
"The assurance of your salvation is not based on how you feel at any given moment, it is based on the greatness of the God who holds his sheep in his hand."
John 14:21
I. The Church Proves Its Love Through Its Obedience
II. The Lord Promises His Love Through His Presence
"There is a duty for those who claim the dignity of being His disciples." -Matthew Henry
Matthew 16:19
I. Making a Declaration that Gives Authority
II. Giving an Invitation that Offers Access to Heaven
Matthew 11:28-30
I. Jesus Invites: Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden…
II. Jesus Promises: …I will give you rest.
III. Jesus Instructs: Take my yoke upon you…
IV. Jesus Reminds: …my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
APPLICATION
- Admit the crushing burden you are under as a
result of your own sin.
-
Give every bit of that burden to Jesus.
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Live in the light of the promise Jesus invites us to.
Hebrews 13:1-6
I. The promise of God in our fellowship, hospitality, and empathy.
II. The promise of God in our purity.
III. The promise of God in our contentment.
When we love one another as family in the church, we will glorify God as our Father in the world.
—David Platt
...and it’s not how to change a tire, say thank you, or throw a curveball.
- Exodus 34:6,7 | Numbers 14:17-18 -
I. Teach Your Kids God’s Wrath is Real
II. Teach Your Kids God’s Wrath is a Gift of His Goodness
III. Teach Your Kids You Can Only Escape God’s Wrath Through Christ
Romans 5:1 - Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Luke 21:10-19
I. Learn to See Adversity as Opportunity
II. Trust God to Give You a Well-Worded Testimony
Matthew 4:18-22
DISCIPLESHIP - Following Me as I Follow Jesus
-
COMMIT yourself to the priority of discipleship
-
PRAY that the Lord lead you to the right person to disciple
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WALK with this person through life, showing them how to follow Jesus, faithfully
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INVEST your time, learn to listen, teach them how the Word of God applies to everyday life
-
Be patient
John 14:18-20; Acts 2:1-4
I. The Holy Spirit Converts Us
II. The Holy Spirit Seals Us
III. The Holy Spirit Convicts Us
IV. The Holy Spirit Sanctifies Us
V. The Holy Spirit Equips Us
Matthew 16:13-18
I. Many Underestimate the Power and thus Undermine the Purpose of the Local Church
II. Power Exists in the Local Church Because It Is Built Upon, “…Christ, the Son of the Living God,” and not Man.
Hebrews 10:11-18
I. The Work of Salvation is Complete and Perfect
II. The Work of Sanctification is Promised and Progressive
Jonah 4:1-11
I. Jonah Displays Anger and Frustration
II. God Offers Comfort and Correction
III. We Learn to Trust in God’s Sovereign Power and Plan
Jonah 3:4-10
I. Trusting in the Word of God
II. Mourning Over Sin
III. Crying Out to God
IV. Turning from Evil Ways
I. God Shows Grace to Jonah
-
By sustaining Jonah’s life
-
By giving Jonah an opportunity to learn the importance of
obedience
- By showing Jonah His love for all people
II. God Shows Grace to Nineveh
III. God Shows Grace to Us
TODAY KNOW God shows grace to us by washing our wicked sinfulness away through the blood of Jesus.
Easter Sunday, 2018
Luke 24:1-12
For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.
-I Corinthians 15:22
Part 1: Jonah 1:17-2:10
I. Jonah Cried Out for God’s Help
II. Jonah Accepted God’s Correction
Jonah 1:17 - 2:10
I. Jonah Cried Out for God’s Help
II. Jonah Accepted God’s Correction
III. Jonah Trusted in God’s Promise
IV. Jonah Submitted to God’s Will
Jonah 1:10-16
I. The Sovereignty of God is Demonstrated in the Storm
A. Storms are Designed to Bring Us to Obedience
B. Storms are Fueled by God’s Mercy
II. The Sovereignty of God is Demonstrated by Transformed Lives
Jonah 1:4-10
I. God Does Not Just Allow Storms, He Creates Them
II. God Uses Storms to Get Our Attention Off Ourselves and On Him
A. A Storm Can Test Us
B. A Storm Can Turn Us
What to do?
Affirm God’s Sovereignty
Study the Word
Memorize Scripture
Pray
-Christina Fox | Contributing Author w/ The Gospel Coalition
Romans 11:36
I. All Glory Belongs to God Because He Cannot Be Measured
II. All Glory Belongs to God Because He Cannot Be Matched
III. All Glory Belongs to God Because it is Already His in the First Place
I Timothy 2:5
I. The Exclusivity of Christ
II. The Rejection that or Anything that Adds to Christ
Romans 3:38
I. ONE OBJECTIVE: Know that Salvation Occurs Through Faith Alone
II. TWO OBSERVATIONS:
A. We Have A Tendency to Drift Away from that Great Truth
B. We Can Keep From Drifting From This Great Truth
- When we believe in a BIG God and pay attention when we
read the Bible.
- When we surround ourselves with people who believe and
celebrate EVERYTHING God has done.
- When we pursue holiness by striving for obedience to
bring glory to God.
Ephesians 1:2-10; 2:1-10
Sola Gratia Means:
I. God Gets the Credit
II. God’s Grace is Not Limited to Any One Kind of Person or Group
III. God’s Grace Will Change the Way You Live Your Life
If any man be saved, he is saved by divine grace and divine grace alone. And the reason for his salvation is not to be found in him but in God. We are not saved as a result of anything we do or that we will. But we will and do as a result of God’s good pleasure and the work of His grace in our hearts. -Charles Spurgeon
Psalm 19:7-11
What are the Five Solas?
Five Theological summaries that emerged from the Protestant Reformation that, together, constitute five foundational doctrines that unite all evangelical Christians to this day.
Sola Scriptura - According to Scripture Alone
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The Bible Transforms You
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The Bible Gives You Wisdom
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The Bible Brings You Joy
-
The Bible Dispels Darkness
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The Bible Adds Stability
-
The Bible Promises Justice
Galatians 6:1,2
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Revelation 2:1-7
I. The Church of Ephesus Faced Doctrinal Challenges
II. The Church of Ephesus had Faded in its Love for Christ and Others
III. The Church of Ephesus Faced Moral Challenges
APPLICATION:
-
We must test and challenge our doctrine in our life and culture.
-
We must face our own moral challenges.
-
We must love God and others.
Isaiah 9:6-7
I. God Had a Plan that Revealed His Glory (A Miraculous Birth)
II. God Promised a Solution that Demonstrates His Grace (A Marvelous Savior)
Philippians 1:2-11
We Fulfill God’s Perfect Plan through…
-
Faithful Expositional Preaching
-
Prayer
-
Evangelism & Discipleship
-
Missions
-
Church Membership & Church Discipline
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Leadership Equipping the Church to Serve
-
Sacrificial Giving
Don’t be a ‘Lone Ranger Christian’ exclusively concerned with you. Lock arms with others who love the Lord and love His church and together grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. – Thabiti Anyabwile
II Corinthians 4:1-7
I. Sharing the Gospel is to be Considered a Blessing and a Privilege
II. Sharing the Gospel is to be Done with Honesty and Humility
III. Sharing the Gospel is to Know Satan Has Blinded the Eyes of Many
IV. Sharing the Gospel is to Trust that God Has the Power to Open the Eyes of the Blind
Application:
-
Rejoice that you have been given the privilege to share in the work of the Gospel
-
Do not quit sharing the Gospel regardless if there is little or no response
-
Trust God to accomplish every part of His perfect will
Luke 17:11-19
- All are in a dire situation
a. On our own, our situation is hopeless
b. On our own, our situation is helpless
- We have a Savior ready to heal
a. His healing is for all
b. His healing comes through faith
- Our Savior Deserves our Worship
a. Worship Unashamedly
b. Worship Thankfully
Acts 17:16-34
I. Know that Any Culture Can Point to Our Creator
II. Trust that Our Creator Will Always Point to Our Redeemer
III. Speak of the Fact Our Redeemer Will One Day Be Our Judge
A. Some Will Mock
B. Some Will Delay
C. Some Will Believe
John 4:31-42
I. Jesus Shows the Disciples the Work of the Gospel is Urgent
II. Jesus Stays with the Samaritans Because the Work of the Gospel is Important
What is this text telling us? What is the application for us?
-
The task is urgent.
-
The message is important.
-
DO NOT WAIT. The time is now!
Learning to Introduce Others to the One Who Rescued Us
John 4:1-39
I. Jesus Connects with a Person Others Would Cast Off - WE ARE TO DO TEH SAME!
II. Jesus Communicates the Gospel By Using Something Easily Understood - WE ARE TO DO THE SAME!
III. Jesus Concentrates on the Solution Not the Problem - WE ARE TO DO THE SAME!
II Corinthians 12:9-10
I. Be Honest with Yourself - "For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
II. Be Transparent with Others - "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses so the power of Christ may rest upon me."
III. Be Satisfied with God - "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Romans 3:21-26
I. The Problem of Humanity is Sin
A. Justified - an instantaneous legal act of God in which He
declares us righteous
B. Propitiation - a wrath removing sacrifice
II. Being Justified with God makes us Heirs with Christ
Genesis 3:1-8, 15
I. What is Happening?
A. Circumstances are out of our control
B. People are out of control
II. How Did We Get Here?
A. Futility - Romans 8:20 "For the creation was subjected to
futility..."
B. Pain - Romans 8:22 "For we know that the whole creation has
been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now..."
III. What Should We Do?
A. Know that trying to fix yourself does not work.
B. Know that trying to earn God’s pleasure does not work.
C. Know that only putting your trust in Christ’s work can restore
our relationship with God.
When Good Goes Bad - Ecclesiastes 3:11
I. What is Happening?
A. Circumstances are out of our control
B. People are out of control
An Open Door - Colossians 4:2-6
I. A One-Part Objective - To mobilize the local church to develop meaningful relationships so we can accomplish what God has called us to accomplish.
II. A Two-Part Command - It is never Evangelism OR Discipleship; instead it must be Evangelism AND Discipleship.
III. A Three-Part Prayer - We pray for and open door, an opportunity to declare, and a clear word when we speak.
Our Objective: To mobilize the local church to develop meaningful relationships so we can accomplish what God has called us to accomplish.
Mark 16:14-20
I. The Great(est) Commission
II. The Miraculous Ascension
III. The Efficacious Intercession
Jesus is at work…
-
With us (Mark 16:20)
-
In us (Phil 2:13)
-
For us (Rom 8:28)
Mark 15:42-16:13
I. Jesus Promises Forgiveness of Sins to Those Who Ask
II. Jesus Promises Life with Him to Those Who Trust
Mark 15:1-15
I. Pilate had a Problem with Jesus
II. Pilate Had to Make a Decision About Jesus
III. Jesus is the Solution to Everyone’s Greatest Problem
Today’s Takeaway:
-
See yourself as guilty, not innocent.
-
Know Jesus was perfectly innocent who died in the place of the guilty.
-
Trust that Jesus died so you can be forgiven and set free from sin.
Mark 14:53-72
I. The Courage of Jesus as He is Put on Trial
II. The Cowardice of Peter as He is Put Through a Test
Important Lessons:
-
Our personal weaknesses only need a little bit of pressure from temptation that can cause us to crumble.
-
Our verbal claims of commitment are not enough to prove our allegiance to Christ and His church.
-
Knowing Christ’s love and willingness to forgive our failures can give us strength and courage.
Mark 14:43-50
I. A Kiss that Reveals Betrayal
II. A Sword that Reveals Failure
III. A Statement that Reveals Power
Remember:
-
God is at work fulfilling His perfect plan.
-
God does not need your help.
-
God wants your heart.
Mark 14:27-42
I. Jesus Predicts
II. The Disciples Protest
III. Jesus Prays
IV. The Disciples Sleep
Final Thoughts
-
God is at work in you. Do not be obsessed with the circumstances. God can use trials and turmoil to remind you He is always there. Don’t give in!
-
God is at work in you. Know that you will fail and others will fail you, but Christ is unfailing. Followers of Christ are saints, not angels. Don’t give up!
-
God is at work in you. Remember, there is coming a time, because of the work of Christ, when the Kingdom of God is completely established and "God will wipe away every tear..." Rev. 7:17. Don’t forget!
Mark 14:12-26
I. The Last Supper Included…
A. Preparation
B. Celebration
C. Declaration
II. The Lord’s Supper Intended…
A. Remembrance
B. Reverence
I. The Woman Acts in Adoration
II. The Disciples React in Indignation
III. Jesus Responds in Appreciation
Lessons for Us
-
We are to be more concerned about our Savior than about our service.
-
We are never to hold back giving to God what He rightfully deserves.
-
We should be reminded every day is an opportunity for us to be remembered, first and foremost as a worshiper of Jesus.
Mark 13:24-37
I. Be Ready for the Harvest of Souls (vss. 24-31)
II. Be Ready for the King to Return (vss. 32-37)
A. Everyone has an appointed task
B. Everyone is to remain faithful
C. No one, but God the Father, knows when Jesus will return
"If what we have learned in Mark 13 does not make us more watchful as Christians, then we have not allowed Jesus to have the last word in our lives." -Sinclair Ferguson
Mark 13:1-13
I. Be Wise – “See that no one leads you astray.” (v. 5a)
II. Be Watchful – “Be on your guard” (v. 9)
III. Be Witnesses – “The Gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations.” (v. 10)
Ephesians 6:4
A Great Dad Teaches His Child(ren)
-
To Fear God
-
To Love God
-
To Know the Gospel
-
To Care for Others
-
To Study Scripture
-
To Be Thankful
-
To Work Hard
10-12-2014 Fruits of the spirit Faithfulnes Its Not Fun or Flashy But It Will Be Well Worth It
8-31-2014 Kindness A Key Connection to the Gospel But the fruit of the Spirit is ...Kindness
8-24-2014 Gods Perfect Plan for Patience But the fruit of the spirit is... patience. Galatians 5 22
6-15-2014 Why You Can Call the Creator of the Universe the King of All Kings Lord of All lords and the Savior of the World... Daddy Galatians 41-11
6-8-2014 Mirror Mirror On the Wall Learning to See the Difference Between Old Testament Law and New Testament Promise
5-18-2014 Where Is Your Faith - Learning To Trust In. Live In and Rest In the Completed Work of Christ.
5-4-2014 Lessons to Learn When One Deviates From the Truth of the Gospel Galatians 2 11-21
4-13-2014 When Not To Give An Inch - Taking a Strong Stand for the Gospel Galatians 21-5
4-6-2014 Up Close and Personal - Paul Tells His Story of How the Gospel Transformed His Life Galatians 111-24
3-30-2014 Dangerous If Swallowed The Results of Believing a Lie Over the Truth Galatians 16-10