Cityview Bible Church: Recent Episodes
Cityview Bible Church
Cityview Bible Church is… A family of believers, committed to reaching people with the life-changing reality of Jesus Christ.
Jesus said we cannot see the Kingdom of God if we are not born again.
What is the “new birth” we can experience in Christ? How do we know if we are born again?
Starting this Sunday, we will explore these questions and more like them as we launch a four-week preaching series: NEW BIRTH.
During this series, we will look at four key passages dealing with the concept of new birth and the fruit that comes when we are born again. This is a great opportunity to pray for family and friends who don’t know Christ and to invite them to join us this Sunday as we examine what it means to experience new birth through a relationship with Jesus.
Jesus said we cannot see the Kingdom of God if we are not born again.
What is the “new birth” we can experience in Christ? How do we know if we are born again?
Starting this Sunday, we will explore these questions and more like them as we launch a four-week preaching series: NEW BIRTH.
During this series, we will look at four key passages dealing with the concept of new birth and the fruit that comes when we are born again. This is a great opportunity to pray for family and friends who don’t know Christ and to invite them to join us this Sunday as we examine what it means to experience new birth through a relationship with Jesus.
Jesus said we cannot see the Kingdom of God if we are not born again.
What is the “new birth” we can experience in Christ? How do we know if we are born again?
Starting this Sunday, we will explore these questions and more like them as we launch a four-week preaching series: NEW BIRTH.
During this series, we will look at four key passages dealing with the concept of new birth and the fruit that comes when we are born again. This is a great opportunity to pray for family and friends who don’t know Christ and to invite them to join us this Sunday as we examine what it means to experience new birth through a relationship with Jesus.
The Christmas We Didn’t Expect #2 Philippians 2:5-8
The Expected King Exploits Position for Personal Gain Maintains Distance from His Subjects Arrogant Attitude The Unexpected Christ Used Position to Bless Others Came Near to Serve Humanity Humble Heart Are you an unexpected Christian? Generosity Proximity Humility What is your attitude this Christmas?
Return of the King #10 Revelation 7:1-17
The Saints of the Church Age
The Rapture of Church (1 Thess 4:17, Rev 3:10)
The Church in Heaven (Revelation 5:9-10)
The Saints of the Great Tribulation
The Redeemed of Israel (Revelation 7:1-8)
The Redeemed of the Nations (Revelation 7:9-17)
The Kingdom of God Culture (vs. Kingdom of Man)
Diversity of Peoples (Jew & Gentile, all nations & tribes)
Oneness in Worship Jesus is our Salvation. Jesus is our Shelter. Jesus is our Shepherd.
Are we giving people a foretaste of the Kingdom today?
The OT Context: Daniel 9:24-27
69 Weeks (483 years) from Decree to Messiah 1 Week (7 years) of Flood, War, & Destruction
The NT Parallel: Matthew 24:4-8
The Six Seals of Revelation Six:
The Four Horsemen
Seal #1 = Conquest (6:1-2)
Seal #2 = War (6:3-4)
Seal #3 = Famine (6:5-6)
Seal #4 = Death (6:7-8)
The Great Tribulation
Seal #5 = Martyrs (6:9-11)
Seal #6 = Signs in Heaven & Earth (6:12-17)
Our Takeaways: Christ the Lamb is also Christ the Judge. No one will escape the judgment of God. The urgency of our mission.
Return of the King #8 Revelation 5:1-14
The Scroll (5:1)
The content of the scroll: God’s redemptive plan
The seals on the scroll: God’s perfect timing
Who is Worthy? (5:2-7) Only Jesus, who is… The Lion of Judah (Genesis 49:9) The Root of David (Isaiah 11:10) The Sacrificial Lamb (Exodus 11-12)
What do we learn about Jesus? (5:8-14) He is God. He overcame by His blood. He leads a different Kingdom.
How should we respond to the Lamb?
Get under His blood.
Return of the King #7 Revelation 4:1-11
A New Vision of Heaven
Worship in heaven invites participation on earth.
A New Reality on Earth
Worship of God changes our priorities on earth. Give glory = praise for His attributes Give honor = respect for His position Give thanks = gratitude for His blessings A New Framework
What’s at the center?
Return of the King #6 Revelation 3:14-22
The Messenger (3:14)
First question: what does this passage teach us about Jesus?
The Message (3:15-18)
Jesus strongly rebukes His people when they are spiritually lukewarm.
Jesus warns us that lukewarmness can lead to spiritual blindness.
The Invitation (3:19-22)
Repent of lukewarmness and be zealous for Christ.
Listen for His knock and open your heart to Christ.
Return of the King #5 Revelation 3:1-13
Two Types of Christians
Jesus’ message to Christians who are externally religious but spiritually dead (Revelation 3:1-6): Your Reputation is Not Ultimate Reality Remember and Repent Be Watchful for His Return Jesus’ message to Christians who are faithful to Christ but facing serious opposition (Revelation 3:7-13): Kingdom Authority is better than Earthly Power Jesus will Deliver His People from Judgment Hold On until the End
What is His message to you?
Return of the King #4 Revelation 2:12-29
Encouragement
Pergamum: Holding on to Jesus Amidst Persecution Thyatira: Good Works on Behalf of Jesus
Correction
Pergamum: Indifference to False Teaching (syncretism) Teaching of Balaam (idolatry) Teaching of Nicolaitans (immorality) Thyatira: Toleration of False Teachers The Prophetess Jezebel (deceiver) Promise
Pergamum: Spiritual Food and Personal Fellowship
Thyatira: Authority in the Kingdom
Application
Reject False Teaching & Avoid False Teachers
Sync with Christ more than Culture
Jesus Knows (2:2, 2:9)
Your Service
Your Affliction
Jesus Speaks (2:1, 2:7, 2:8, 2:11)
His Written Word
His Holy Spirit
Jesus Corrects (2:4-5)
Remember
Repent
Jesus Encourages (2:10)
Don’t Be Afraid
Be Faithful
His Call to Us Today: Return to Your First Love
Return of the King #2 Revelation 1:9-20
John Hears A Voice (1:9-11)
Historical Context Physical Context Spiritual Context
John Sees a Vision (1:12-16)
Son of Man (Humanity) Fullness of Glory (Deity) Head of the Church (Authority)
John Receives a Call (1:17-20)
Don’t Be Afraid Write These Words
Now What?
Revelation 1:1-8
The Nature of Revelation (1:1-2) Three Major Themes: 1- Who is Jesus? 2- What must take place? 3- How then should we live?
The Importance of Revelation (1:3) Five Interpretive Keys: 1- Allow the whole book to interpret itself. 2- Track OT images to their sources. 3- Understand the apocalyptic genre. 4- Use a consistent hermeneutic (& futurist orientation). 5- Always look for specific application.
The People of Revelation (1:4-6) The Author: John the Apostle The Recipients: The Churches The Subject: Jesus the King The Scope: The Nations The Urgency of Revelation (1:7-8) Jesus is coming soon. Every eye will see Him. Do you see Him now?
Colossians 3:11-17
The Priority of Love - Unity without love is impossible.
The Pathway of Love - Love is more about how we treat people than how we feel about people.
The Pinnacle of Love - The pinnacle of love is not our forgiveness of others. It is God’s forgiveness of us.
Why Should The Church Be Leading This Conversation? 1- We can do it constructively, not destructively (in love). John 13:35 2- We have a better story to tell (the biblical story). John 8:31
Every worldview answers at least four questions: Who are we? What’s wrong with the world? What will make things better? What is our future hope? Two Dominant Cultural Narratives:
Narrative #1: Expressive Individualism Who are we? I am my personal desires and personal accomplishments. What’s wrong with the world? I am held back by external cultural pressures and by relational limitations. What will make things better? If people throw off external constraints, follow their hearts, and achieve personal fulfillment. What is our future hope? A world where everyone can be whatever they desire to be. Narrative #2: Postmodern Critical Theory Who are we? I am the intersection of all the groups that I identify with. What’s wrong with the world? I am held back by the oppression that more powerful groups have exerted over my groups. What will make things better? When oppressed groups can gain power and oppressive groups lose power. What is our future hope? Ultimately none because there will be an unending battle for power between different groups. A Better Story: The Biblical Narrative
- Who are we? We are human beings created in the image of God. (Genesis 1:27, Acts 17:24-26)
- What's wrong with the world? We are sinners by nature and by choice (Romans 3:23). We live in an unjust world under the weight of the curse (Romans 8:19-21)
- What will make things better? Jesus died for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2). Jesus died to reconcile us to God and to each other (Ephesians 2:15-16). Jesus died to demonstrate God's commitment to justice & love for sinners (Romans 3:26). Jesus died to offer grace to those who repent and believe (Mark 1:15). Jesus died to give us the power to forgive those who hurt us (Colossians 4:13).
- What is our hope? The return of Jesus to make all things right (Revelation 7:9).
gnoring race relationships, racial history, and racial challenges won’t make them get better.
Part 1: The Branches (our reality)
“A racialized society is a society wherein race matters profoundly for differences in life experiences, life opportunities, and social relationships.” - Michael Emmerson
What does race impact? Economic Opportunity Net Worth Health Care Education Quality & Options Language Barriers Incarceration Rates Relationships with Law-Enforcement Church Experiences Family of Origin Housing Opportunities Relationships with Other Races
1- Race matters. 2- Racialization is real and complex.
Part 2: The Trunk (our history) AW Mays Testimony Racialization is historical and generational.
Part 3: The Root (our hearts) The heart issue is pride. Paul’s Heart Change Philippians 3:4-6 1 Timothy 1:12-15 Peter’s Heart Change Acts 10:28, 34-35 Racialization is deeply rooted in our hearts.
Action Step: Oneness Embraced Study with Dr. Tony Evans
COMMUNITY The Call to Community Community Requires....... 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) DIVERSITY The Call to Diversity Diversity Requires....... 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) CHRIST AT THE CENTER
Summer With Cityview - Douglas Hallam 19 Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon so that I too may be encour- aged by news about you. 20 For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; 21 all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know his proven character, because he has served with me in the gospel ministry like a son with a father. 23 Therefore, I hope to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 I am confident in the Lord that I myself will also come soon. 25 But I considered it necessary to send you Epaphroditus—my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier, as well as your messenger and minister to my need— 26 since he has been longing for all of you and was distressed because you heard that he was sick. 27 Indeed, he was so sick that he nearly died. However, God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. 28 For this reason, I am very eager to send him so that you may rejoice again when you see him and I may be less anxious. 29 Therefore, welcome him in the Lord with great joy and hold people like him in honor, 30 because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up what was lacking in your ministry to me. Philippians 2:19-30 1. _________________ caring about the needs of others is _________________. 2. ___________________ aren’t always wrong, and sometimes ______________________, just dont be ___________________. 3. Living for others involves __________________- motivated ________________. 4. Living for others involves _____________-motivated _______________.
- Paul challenges us to work out our salvation, not work _______ our salvation.
- God who is working in you both to _________ and to ________ according to His good purpose.
- We often fall prey to ________________ and ________________.
- We learn in verse 15 that we live in a __________________ and ____________________ generation. Those who follow Christ should instead be blameless and pure.
- Rather than building up wealth or power, Paul’s objective was to see that others become ___________________ in the Gospel.
- Are you willing to ___________________ for others?
5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,[a] 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,[b] 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,[c] being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:5-11
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1
1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, Hebrews 1:1-3
56 Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.” 57 So the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?”[a] 58 Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” 59 So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple. John 8:56-59
I and the Father are one.” John 10:30
8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? John 14:8-9
13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”— Galatians 3:13
Dr. Michael O. Oyedokun II 1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. - Philippians 2:1-4 1. The Christian’s Modus Operandi 2. The Christian’s Code of Conduct 3. The Christian’s Choice of Conformity
The Reality of the Life-Review: Nothing is Hidden From God
NDE Testimony: Howard Storm Video
Scripture: Romans 14:11-12 Hebrews 9:27-28 2 Corinthians 5:10
The Results of the Life-Review: Eternal Implications
NDE Testimony: Dr. Mary Neal
Two Questions:
Our Eternal Destiny – What did we do with Jesus? Revelation 20:11-12 Matthew 16:13-16
Our Eternal Rewards – What did we do with our lives? Matthew 16:27 1 Corinthians 4:5
Our Response Today to the Life Review
NDE Testimony: Randy Kay
Live for Eternal Rewards more Temporary Gain 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Love God & People more than Fame & Money Matthew 22:37-40 Matthew 6:19-21
The Highlight of Heaven is the Presence of God Genesis 3:23-24 Revelation 21:1-4
What is God really like? God is Light. Daniel 10:4-6 Isaiah 9:2 John 8:12 Matthew 17:1-2
NDE Testimony: Howard Storm Video (3:20)
God is Love. Exodus 34:6-7 1 John 4:7
NDE Testimony: Dean Braxton (3:47)
John 3:16-17
God is Personal. Acts 9:3-6 Isaiah 62:5 Matthew 6:31-32
Relationships Last Forever Relationships in Heaven We will have a ________________ like no other. Broken relationships with be fully ______________. Our physical bodies will be fully _________________. Relationships on Earth Work for ________________ now as a foretaste of heaven. ____________ people as God loves you. _____________ in relationships today. Relationship with God The most important relationship now and forever is the one with ____________.
Evidence for the Afterlife Three Evidences for the Afterlife 1- The _______________ Evidence 2- The _______________ Evidence 3- The _______________ Evidence Near-Death Experiences What are they? How should we think about them? What do they point to? So What?
Discussion Guide Use the following questions this week to reflect on what it would mean to align yourself with the truths taught in Scripture. Each question is meant for both personal reflections and as a catalyst for discussion with your family, friends, or small group. 1. Read 1 Corinthians 2:9. What has been your prior picture of heaven? What did you think it was going to be like, and did you look forward to going there? Where does your picture of heaven come from? 2. Read 2 Corinthians 12:2-4. As you think about the number of people who have experienced a Near Death Experience (NDE) and the scientific studies done, are you inclined to give some validity to NDEs? Why or why not? 3. Read 2 Corinthians 5:6-9. What do you believe happens to you when you die? How does your view compare with the teaching of the Bible? What does it mean to walk by faith and not by sight? 4. If heaven is as good as the Bible and NDEers describe, how does that change your view of the way we should live our lives today? Are there any changes you feel God would want you to make?
If The Lord Wills James 4:13-16
Two Mistakes with Tomorrow Over-confidence in my plans for tomorrow. Why is this a mistake? Only God knows what tomorrow will bring.
The Right Perspective: God-centered Planning
- Putting off obedience until tomorrow.
Why is this a mistake? We are not guaranteed tomorrow.
The Right Response: Immediate Obedience
The Right Heart for Today
Boasting in God, not self
Surrender to God's will, not my plans
Number Our Days Psalm 90:1-17
THREE Important Realities (1-11) God is our eternal Creator. Life is brief and difficult. All humanity is under God’s wrath.
FOUR Wise Applications (12-17) Walk in humility. Give thanks every single day. Seek reconciliation with others. Rejoice in God’s love.
A Time For Everything Ecclesiastes 3:1-15
A Wise Approach To Time
Embrace the diversity of seasons in life Acknowledge how short life is on the earth Reflect on the eternal desires God put in your heart
The Mystery of Symmetry
A Time to Live & Die
A Time to Weep & Mourn
Four Steps to Biblical Lament turn to God explain complaint make a request express faith and hope
A Time to Celebrate & Rejoice
A Time to Work & Rest
The Point of It All
In everything, center your life on God, not self.
Every season is a season for worship.
Now What?
Show yourself grace on hard days Center ALL your days, your hours, your minutes in God Rest your eternity in Christ
Unshakable #3: The Cornerstone Acts 4:5-12
Introduction & Review
The Cornerstone
The power of the Cornerstone makes us unshakeable The Truth of the Cornerstone makes us unshakeable Unshakeable Salvation can only come through the Cornerstone
Next Step
Popular Mechanics Quote: “To resist high winds, whether they're from tornadoes or hurricanes, homes must be built with what is called a 'continuous load path,' a series of reinforced connections that tie every element together from roof to foundation, like a chain. Important connections would include rafters to top plates, top plates to studs, studs to bottom plates and bottom plates to foundation.”
What am I building my life on? What am I building my life with?
Read 1 Corinthians 3:10-17.
The Meaning of the Text
The Historical Background
Not everything built in the church at Corinth had lasting value.
The Collective Context The church needs a solid foundation. The church needs many builders. The church is the people, not the building. The church needs the Spirit. The Future Assessment
The Return of Christ The Revelation by Fire The Eternal Reward
The Application of the Text
Build Your Life: On Christ (not idols) With intentionality (not passivity) With others (not alone) With the Spirit (not self) For eternity (not today)
Unshakable #1: The Foundation Luke 6:46-49
The Great Equalizer
Floods come for everyone. Floods reveal the quality of your foundation.
“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” -Mike Tyson
The Unshakable Foundation
Three Pieces: Come to Jesus Hear His word Act on His word
The Unstable Foundation
Unstable foundations create the illusion of strength when the waters are calm, but quickly collapse when the waters rise.
Two unstable foundations: Hearing Jesus without action Confessing Jesus without obedience
Every foundation other than Christ is ultimately unstable.
The Easter Surprise
The Architect who surveys your foundation is also the Carpenter who repairs the cracks.
The Obstacles to Action
Passivity (someone else will do it) Performance (I’ll just act the part) Postponement (I’ll do it later)
God’s Infinite Power Job 40-41
God’s Answer for Job (40:1-2)
God answers Job’s questions with a question. Who are you to question the Almighty?
Job’s First Response to God (40:3-5)
When confronted with God’s greatness & His questions, Job understands… His insignificance in glory His foolishness in speech Rather than recanting, Job chooses silence.
God’s Second Speech to Job (40:6 – 41:34) Four questions… Will you tear me down to make yourself look better? (read 40:6-9) Would you be able to administer justice on the earth? (read 40:10-14) Can you control the greatest beasts of creation (Behemoth)? (read 40:15-19) Can you subdue the supernatural forces of evil (Leviathan)? (read 41:1-2, 9, 19-20, 25-26) Our Takeaways Speak less and listen more. Evaluate yourself under God, not the other way around. Rely on God’s grace, not your righteousness.
God’s Infinite Wisdom Job 38-39
The Value of God’s Words (38:1-2)
God’s Questions for Job (38:3) Where were you during creation? (38:4) (God’s eternal nature) Who enclosed the oceans? (38:8) (God’s infinite power) Have you commanded the sunrise? (38:12) (God’s daily providence) Have you been to the depths of hell? (38:17) (God’s omnipresence) Do you control the path of the stars? (38:31-32) (God’s infinite size) Who created knowledge and understanding? (38:36) (God’s infinite wisdom) Did you make all the animals? (39:1, 5, 13, 19, 26) (God’s incredible creativity) Our Takeaways All of creation testifies to the greatness of God. Our greatest need in life is a RIGHT view of the TRUE God. We love God for Himself, not for His blessings.
Self-Righteousness & The Justice of God Job 29-37 The Big Picture 1) A New Friend: Elihu 2) A New Order: Job-Elihu-God 3) A New Point: Don’t self-justify Job’s Self-Defense (29-31) “I was once respected by all for my righteousness & justice.” (29:7-8, 11-14) “Now I am ridiculed by the foolish & rejected by God.” (30:1, 9-10, 16, 20-21) “What have I done to deserve all this pain?” (31:5-6, 13-14, 24-25, 28, 35-37) Setting Up The Scene (32:1-5) Elihu’s Rebuke of Job (32-37) “I have listened to everyone and now I must speak.” (32:6-8, 18-19) “Arguing with God is foolish because God is so much greater.” (33:8-13) “God is righteous and sovereign even when He is silent.” (34:12-15, 29-30) “Job is speaking of things he doesn’t fully understand.” (35:6-7, 16) “God is good and loving even when He allows suffering.” (36:2-3, 5, 26) “God does great things we cannot comprehend.” (37:4-5, 14-16, 23-24) Our Takeaways 1- Own the Folly of Self-Righteousness 2- Trust in God’s Righteousness. 3- In our suffering, we need a BIGGER view of God.
Foolishness & Wisdom Job 22-28
Understanding Two Important Biblical Categories:
Foolishness = the selfish application of knowledge
Wisdom = the godly application of knowledge
What is foolish to do when people are hurting/suffering?
To point out their flaws, sins, and lack of goodness (22:5-9) To correct all of their inconsistent theology (22:12-15) To promise that everything will get better quickly (22:21-23) To remind them of their frailty (25:4-6)
What is the wisdom that Job needs in his despair?
He needs to hear from God, not people. (23:2-5) He needs peace in God’s presence, not terror. (23:13-16) He needs help enduring injustice. (24:12-14) He needs reminders of God’s sovereignty. (26:6-9)
Key Takeaways:
True wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord. (28:18) The wisdom of this world is foolishness to the Lord. The message of the cross is the wisdom of God.
What Not To Say To Hurting Friends Job 15-21
Why does God give us THREE sets of speeches?
Round 2 Big Question: What Should We Say?
Eliphaz’ Second Speech “Our message (that your suffering is caused by your sin) is ancient, time-tested wisdom.” (15:17-20)
Bildad’s Second Speech “The wicked are punished by God and lose their inheritance in the future.” (18:5, 18-21)
Zophar’s Second Speech “The joy and prosperity of the wicked are brief because God will take away their blessings.” (20:4-5, 27-29)
Job Responds “Your empty words are a miserable comfort.” (16:1-5) “You scoff at me and mock me while I weep.” (16:18-22) “Your words provide no hope for my hurting heart.” (17:13-16) “Your words crush and humiliate me.” (19:1-3) “Your words persecute me.” (19:21-22, 28-29) “Suffering in this world doesn’t make sense.” (21:7-9, 23-26) “Your words are deceptive and unhelpful.” (21:34)
Key Takeaways: Speak only what God has said – not more than He has said. Unkind words cut deeply and leave wounds. Extend the same grace to others that you have received. In grief, people need an advocate, not a judge.
Friendship & the Search for Answers Job 4-14
The Importance of Friendship in Our Suffering
The Big Question: Why Is Job Suffering So Much?
Eliphaz Speaks (4:2, 7-8, 5:8-9) “I know I shouldn’t say this, but surely you offended God in some way. Ask God for clarity.”
Job Responds to Eliphaz (6:2-3, 14, 24-25, 7:20-21) “In my deep grief, I need loyal friends, not trite answers. Please God, show me why I’m suffering.”
Bildad Speaks (8:1-7, 20-22) “Your children must have offended God. But don’t worry, friend, it will all be better in the future.”
Job Responds (9:1-4, 21-22, 10:18-21) “No one is truly righteous before God, and besides that, it seems like everyone suffers in this life.”
Zophar Speaks (11:1-3, 13-14) “Let me correct your babbling speech. Turn away from your sin, Job, and turn back to God.”
Job Responds (12:13-15, 13:1-5, 22-23, 14:10) “I already know what you are teaching. But I want to know if there is any hope for us in the face of death.”
Key Takeaways: Not everything that can be said should be said. Acknowledge the category of unjust suffering Embrace mystery in walking with God Get into the pit with the suffering person.
Sovereign over Suffering - Week 2 JOB 1-3
Defining grief: Grief is a healing journey that allows us to survive the painful emotions that accompany the inevitable losses of life.
The 6 Stages of Grief:
Stage 1: Shock and Denial - Job 1 "This can't be true."
Stage 2: Anger - Job 2 "How could you let this happen?
Stage 3: Bargaining - Job 3:1-10 "If only things were different."
Stage 4: Depression - Job 3:11-26 "I can't handle this much pain."
Stage 5: Acceptance - Job 42:1-6 "God, you are in control."
Stage 6: Meaning
1) No one is exempt from the painful losses of life. 2) We are not alone in our grie 3) God can and will redeem our deepest sorrows.
Sovereign Over Suffering Job 1-2
The Introduction of Job (1:1-5)
The First Scene in Heaven (1:6-12)
The Terrible Loss of Job (1:13-19)
The Faith of Job (1:20-22)
The Second Scene in Heaven (2:1-6)
The Physical Suffering of Job (2:7-8)
The Faith of Job (2:9-10)
The Introduction of Job’s Friends (2:11-13)
Today’s Takeaways: 1) God is sovereign over success and suffering. 2) We face a real, powerful adversary who intends us harm. 3) Suffering is not always a consequence of our unrighteousness. 4) There is a divine perspective on suffering that we cannot see.
What’s After Life? 2 Corinthians 4:16 – 5:5
Near-Death Experiences:
-What are they? (Show Dr. Mary Neal video)
-Why so many today?
-What do they mean? ---They are collectively credible but not individually authoritative. ---They are powerful evidence but not infallible. ---They provide us with opportunities to talk about Jesus.
The Biblical Framework for Eternity: -The life to come is incomparably greater than our life now. -What is unseen is just as real as what is seen. -God has put eternity on the hearts of all people.
What’s Next? -Get a book. -Read it this week. -Give it away.
We finish our series on fasting by talking about the important rhythms in the OT and how they apply to the church today and how they point us to Christ. The goal is to see fasting within the context of the other important rhythms of faith and how to keep God at the center of them all. Here's the outline:
The Holy Rhythms of Israel 1) The Sabbath Day (23:3) 2) Passover & The Festival of Unleavened Bread (23:4-8) 3) The Festival of First Fruits (23:9-14) 4) The Festival of Weeks (23:15-22) 5) The Festival of Trumpets (23:23-25) 6) The Day of Atonement (23:26-32) 7) The Festival of Shelters (23:33-44)
The Holy Rhythms of the Church 1) Work and Rest 2) Remembering God’s Grace 3) Giving to God 4) Giving to Others 5) Waiting on the Lord 6) Fasting Together 7) Celebrating Together
The Holy One at the Center 1) Jesus is our Sabbath Rest. (Hebrews 4:9) 2) Jesus is our Passover Lamb. (1 Corinthians 5:7) 3) Jesus is the First-fruit from the Grave. (1 Corinthians 15:20) 4) Jesus sends the Spirit from the Father at Pentecost. (John 15:26) 5) Jesus returns with Trumpet Blast. (1 Corinthians 15:52) 6) Jesus is the Final Sacrifice. (Hebrews 10:10) 7) Jesus resides with us always. (Matthew 28:20)
Isaiah 58:1-14
Big Question: Is our fasting God-Honoring or Self-Serving?
God’s Message to the Prophet Isaiah (58:1-2)
“Boldly confront My people for the sin of looking religious on the outside while ignoring the suffering of others.”
The People’s Complaint to God (58:3a)
“Why aren’t You responding to our FAST like we want?”
God’s Message to the People (58:3b-14)
The Problem: Fasting from food while mistreating people and overlooking those in need dishonors the Lord. (5:3-5)
The Promise: Three If/Then Statements IF you work to liberate the oppressed and help those in need, THEN God will restore you and guide you. (5:6-8) IF you change your attitude toward those in need, THEN God will restore you and guide you. (5:9-12) IF you honor the Lord first in your schedule, THEN God will restore your joy in Him. (5:13-14)
The Point: Let’s be sure to connect our fasting with a real pursuit of God, a genuine love for all people, and using our resources to help those in need.
The Next Step: Bring your special offering next week at church.
Fasting Together #3
In the Bible, fasting is often connected with repentance. Examples: Nehemiah 9, Jonah 3, Acts 9
Today’s Passage: 1 John 2:15-17
Audience: Believers in Christ
The Command: Don’t Love the World More than You Love God
The Reasons: 1) You can’t love this world and God at the same time (2:15). 2) The priorities and values of this world are not the priorities and values of God’s Kingdom (2:16) 3) This current world system is passing away (2:17)
So What?
1 – Take a personal inventory of your sins against God.
2 – Confess and repent before God.
Psalm 63:1-11
Fasting is the spiritual discipline of limiting our food intake for the sake of pursuing God and learning self-control of the flesh.
THE CONTEXT:
The CONTEXT of Psalm 63: David’s Wilderness Time in 1 Samuel 21-23
Seeking God FIRST in the midst of the wilderness requires us to pursue God by remembering His goodness despite our circumstances.
The CONTEXT of our 21-Day Fast: Our Abundance in 2020 America
Seeking God FIRST in the midst of abundance requires us to pursue God by exercising self-control in the face of many options.
THE PURSUIT:
David’s language for pursuing God: -Eagerly seek You (vs 1) -Thirst for You (vs 1) -Faint for You (vs 1) -Gaze on You (vs 2) -Glorify You (vs 3) -Bless You (vs 4) -Lift Up My Hands (vs 4) -Praise You (vs 5) -Meditate on You (vs 6) -Rejoice in You (vs 7) -Follow Close to You (vs 8)
The KEY to making fasting a spiritual activity more than just a physical activity is pursuing GOD in the midst of the fast.
There are TWO parts to any effective fast: -What is God asking me to give up during my fast? -How will I pursue God MORE than usual during my fast?
THE REASONS: 1. The land is dry and desolate. 2. God’s faithful love is better than life itself. 3. God’s presence satisfies us more than the richest foods. 4. God is our only great helper. 5. God will sustain us and hold us in His hand forever.
THE GAME PLAN: 1. Follow our daily Bible reading plan 2. Practice spontaneous prayer when feeling hungry 3. Journal each night what God is teaching you 4. Worship the Lord throughout the day 5. Keep your eyes on God > food
Fasting Together #1 Matthew 6:16-18
Jesus expects His disciples to fast. What does this mean?
What is FASTING? Hebrew Word: TSOM (refers exclusively to abstaining from food) Greek Word: nesteuo (hungry, without food, fasting) Definition: fasting is the spiritual discipline of limiting our food intake for the sake of pursuing God and learning self-control of the flesh.
What’s the POINT of FASTING? Key Biblical Themes… -Repentance of sin and renewal of holiness. (1 Samuel 7:5-6) -Removal of idols and recommitment to God. (Exodus 34:28) -Personal humility and identification with the poor. (Isaiah 58) -Living in expectation of God’s future feast with His people. (Zechariah 8:19) -To remember and follow Christ’s example (Matthew 4:1-11) -To honor God and receive His blessing (Matthew 6:16-18) -To eagerly anticipate the return of Jesus (Luke 5:33-35)
What does FASTING NOT do? -Reconcile us to God or make us righteous (Luke 18:9-14) -Force God to answer our prayers (Luke 22:42) -Make us more spiritual than others (Matthew 6:16-18)
How do we FAST TOGETHER for 21 days? -A FULL Fast (no food for 21 days) -A PARTIAL Fast (skip one meal for 21 days or remove a part of your diet that you will feel for 21 days) -A SOUL Fast (removing something from your daily rhythm to focus on God) -A CORPORATE Fast (with your church family)
What are my next steps? -Pray and ask the Lord to guide you in this fast. -Talk to your family about what you can do together. -Tell your life group what you are doing and ask for prayer. -Plan ahead for a 21-day fast (it takes preparation). -Pursue God DURING the fast (this is the primary goal).
Philippians 4:4-9
The Big Question: Is it really possible to experience God’s peace in our lives regardless of the difficulty of our circumstances?
The Context of Philippians 4… Paul in a Roman prison Philippians facing pagan persecution & Jewish opposition
The Command: Don’t Worry About Anything (4:6)
The Keys to Peace in All Circumstances: Pray About Everything With Thanksgiving (4:6) Meditate on what is True and Good (4:8) Obey what God Commands (4:9)
The Promises: The Peace of God Will Guard Us (4:7) The God of Peace Will Be With Us (4:9)
The Prince of Peace #3 Ephesians 4:25-32
The Purchase of Peace (Ephesians 2:14-16)
Jesus reconciled us to each other through His work on the cross.
The Practice of Peace (Ephesians 4:25-32)
These DISRUPT Peace: These SPREAD Peace:
Lying (4:25) Speaking the truth in love (4:15, 25) Anger (4:26-27) Removing anger (4:31) and practicing kindness (4:32) Stealing (4:28) Hard work & generosity (4:28) Foul language (4:29) Gracious speech (4:29-30) Unforgiveness (4:31-32) Forgiveness (4:32)
Whose Ambassadors Are We?
The Prince of Peace #3 Ephesians 4:25-32
The Purchase of Peace (Ephesians 2:14-16)
Jesus reconciled us to each other through His work on the cross.
The Practice of Peace (Ephesians 4:25-32)
These DISRUPT Peace: These SPREAD Peace:
Author and lecturer Fouad Masri was born and raised in the war zone of Beirut, Lebanon. As a third generation ordained pastor, he has a passion for sharing the love of Christ with Muslims and has been reaching out to Muslims and inspiring others to follow his example since 1979.
After coming to the United States to attend seminary, Fouad realized the urgency for teaching American Christians to reach out to the growing population of internationals, particularly Muslims.
In 1993, he founded Crescent Project to nurture transformational relationships between Christians and Muslims and to rally the Church to reach out to Muslims to share the Good News of Christ.
Since then, he has trained more than 21,000 Christians to sensitively and purposefully share their faith with Muslims through both the Bridges One-Day and Sahara Challenge training experiences. He has served as a guest instructor at several universities and Christian ministries and has been featured in several media publications including Christianity Today, Newsweek, and Mission Network News. He has appeared on CBN, TBN, the Janet Parshall Show, and Prime Time America.
The Prince of Peace #1
Isaiah 9:1-7
Who is the Messiah King?
-A divine king who will come as a child to establish an eternal kingdom of peace.
What is the Nature of His Kingdom? -Light Instead of Darkness (9:2) -Joy Instead of Despair (9:3) -Freedom Instead of Oppression (9:4) -Peace Instead of War (9:5) -Justice Instead of Injustice (9:7)
How do we experience His Reign of Peace? -Trust in God, not in Man -Live in His Kingdom Today
The unseen battle #7 - Ephesians 6:18-20
What to do: ___________
When to do it: __________
How to do it: ___________
Why to do it: ___________
The Unseen Battle #6 Ephesians 6:13-17
Why do we need the armor of God? 1. We are in a real spiritual war. 2. Our enemy is not people, but evil spiritual forces. 3. The devil is scheming against us.
How do we fight this spiritual war?
We TAKE UP the full armor of God. - The Belt of Truth - The Breastplate of Righteousness - The Sandals of Readiness with the Gospel - The Shield of Faith - The Helmet of Salvation - The Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God
We RESIST the schemes of the devil.
We PREPARE EVERYTHING for battle. - Our Daily Rhythm - Our Fighting Unit
We STAND.
THE UNSEEN BATTLE #5 MATTHEW 4:1-11
Satan's Temptations of Jesus:
Temptation #1: Listen to your physical desires more than God's Word. Jesus' Answer (Deut 8:3): God's word is more important than food.
Temptation #2: Test God to see if He really loves you. Jesus' Answer (Deut 6:16): We don't test God. We trust Him.
Temptation #3: Go after worldly treasures by worshiping false gods. Jesus Answer (Deut 6:13): Worship and serve God alone
The Big Picture: Satan's primary strategy is lying to us. (John 8)
THE UNSEEN BATTLE #3-WHAT IS SATAN'S INTENT?
The Heart of God: 1. 2. 3.
The Command:
The Heart of Satan 1. 2. 3.
The Command:
The Point:
Examples:
Our Hope in the Unseen Battle 1. 2. 3.
The Unseen Battle #2 – Who is Satan?
- Satan’s Origin Story
Five NT passages describe Satan’s origins…
Luke 10:18 Revelation 12:9 2 Peter 2:4 2 Corinthians 11:14 Jude 1:6
2.Satan’s Original Sin
Two OT passages give us the rest of the story…
Ezekiel 28:11-19 Isaiah 14:12-14
- Our Internal Struggle
The way of Satan: the way of pride, arrogance, and self-exaltation.
The way of Jesus: the way of humility, service, and self-denial.
The Unseen Battle #1 (Ephesians 6:10-13)
The Nature of the Battle It’s REAL. It’s PERSONAL. It’s SPIRITUAL. It’s CONSISTENT. It’s IMPORTANT. The Resources for the Battle The STRENGTH of God. The ARMOR of God. The Goal in the Battle: To STAND.
The Invitation (John 14:12-14) To Believe in Jesus (14:12)
To Do The Works of Jesus (14:12) First, He is serving.
Second, He is doing miracles.
Third, He is teaching.
Fourth, He is delivering.
To Ask (14:13)
To Ask In Jesus’ Name (14:14)
The Struggle to Persevere
The Need: To Not Give Up on Prayer (18:1)
The Parable (18:2-5): 1.) The Unjust Judge (18:2) 2.) The Persistent Widow (18:3) 3.) The Result: Justice Through Persistence (18:4-5)
The Contrasts (18:6-8) 1.) God is a Just Judge. 2.) God does not delay. 3.) God swiftly brings justice.
The Challenge For Us Today 1.) The Action: Ongoing Prayer 2.) The Heart: Childlike Faith
How NOT to Pray Matthew 6:5-8
1) Don’t Perform (be a hypocrite)
Wrong Action: Public Prayer without Private Prayer Wrong Motive: To Be Seen by People Why Not? Seeking Crowd Approval instead of God
2) Don’t Babble (like the pagans)
Wrong Action: Empty Repetition Wrong Motive: Manipulate God Why Not? Your Father already knows and cares.
How TO Pray
1) Get Alone with God
2) Talk to God Alone
3) Trust Him Alone
Pursue God in Prayer #3 (Luke 11:5-13)
Contrasting Visions of Prayer
Bold, Audacious Prayer VS. Cautious, Timid Prayer (11:5-8)
Faithful, Confident Prayer VS. Inconsistent Prayer (11:9-10)
A Good, Generous Father VS. Evil, Unhelpful People (11:11-13)
How God Answers Prayer: -Yes, I thought you’d never ask. -No, I love you too much. -Yes, and here’s more than you asked for. -Yes, but not yet. -Yes, but differently than what you thought.
Praying Like Jesus The Pattern… Intimacy (adoption through atonement) Awe (reverence for God’s holiness) Surrender (submission to His will, His glory) Dependence (daily needs – provision) Repentance (confession & turning away) Mercy (strength to forgive others) Protection (from sin & temptation) Praying With Jesus
Pursue God in Prayer #1 (Luke 10:38-42)
What Keeps Us from Prayer Pride Distraction (10:40) Comparison (10:40) Worry (10:41)
What Helps Us to Pray Humility (10:39) Focus (10:42) Listening to God’s Word (10:39) Trusting God’s Heart (10:40)
Unity & Diversity: Age (Titus 2:1-8)
Reminder: In our current cultural moment, the church of Jesus has a unique opportunity to put the love of God on display in the way that we love one another across barriers that normally divide.
Generational Relationships Today
The Kingdom Invitation: Intergenerational Community Titus 2:1-8
Intergenerational community works when…
1- Older men and women model godliness in their attitudes, words, and actions.
2- Older men and women spend time teaching the younger generation to follow Christ.
3- Younger men and women seek wisdom by humbly listening to older, godly mentors.
4- The young and old do life together.
Personal Application:
Reach out and build a generational bridge.
In the church, men and women are to relate to each other as family, creating a culture where older men and women are respected as fathers and mothers and younger men and women are loved as brothers and sisters.
In addition to reconciling sinners to God, the gospel of Jesus also reconciles us to each other, tearing down the dividing walls of hostility that separate people from one another. The church is the unified & diverse people of God who put the power of the gospel on display for a watching world.
Some words are hurtful; other words are helpful; all words are consequential.
Hurtful Words...
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Sharp words. Psalm140:3 They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the venom of asps... Proverbs 21:9 Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
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Profone words. Psalm 140:9 As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them!
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Gossip. Psalm 140:11 ...Let not the slanderer be established in the land;
Helpful Words... 1. Encouraging words. 5...it is oil for my head;.... 6...for they shall hear my words, for they are pleasant.
- Prayer and Praise. Psalms 140:1 Deliver me, O Lord, from evil men; preserve me from violent men,... Psalms 140:13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name;...
Psalms 141:3 Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! 4 Do not let my heart incline to any evil,.... T--Is it true? H--Is it helpful? I--Is it inspiring? N--Is it necessary? K--Is it kind?
How To Make The Most of My Words... Ask God to clean my heart. Psalms 140:2 "they plan evil things in their hearts." Matthew 12:34 "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks."
Use my words to bless others.
8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For,
“Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. 11 They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”[a]
1 Peter 3:8-12
17 Therefore, I say this and testify in the Lord: You should no longer walk as the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their thoughts. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them and because of the hardness of their hearts. 19 They became callous and gave themselves over to promiscuity for the practice of every kind of impurity with a desire for more and more. 20 But that is not how you learned about the Messiah, 21 assuming you heard about Him and were taught by Him, because the truth is in Jesus. 22 You took off your former way of life, the old self that is corrupted by deceitful desires; 23 you are being renewed in the spirit of your minds; 24 you put on the new self, the one created according to God’s likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth. “25 Since you put away lying, Speak the truth, each one to his neighbor, because we are members of one another. 26 Be angry and do not sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and don’t give the Devil an opportunity. 28 The thief must no longer steal. Instead, he must do honest work with his own hands, so that he has something to share with anyone in need. 29No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear. 30 And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit. You were sealed by Him for the day of redemption. 31 All bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander must be removed from you, along with all malice. 32 And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” – Ephesians 4:17-32
Our Great Redeemer (Ruth 4:1-22)
The Problem of Self-Redemption (Ruth 4:1-8)
The Desire: “I want to redeem it.”
The Limitation: “I can’t redeem it.”
The Beauty of God’s Redemption (Ruth 4:9-16)
God redeems Naomi’s life.
The Ongoing Story of God’s Redemption (Ruth 4:17-22)
Why do we need redemption?
Why can’t we redeem ourselves?
What has God done to redeem us?
Waiting on the Lord (Ruth 3:1-18)
God is redeeming your brokenness. What do you do?
1- Act boldly.
(Expect Risk)
2- Act righteously.
(Expect Temptation)
3- Act patiently.
(Expect Obstacles)
Providence & Provision (Ruth 2:1-23)
The Faithfulness of Ruth
What did she promise in Ruth 1? -Allegiance to Naomi -Allegiance to her people (Israel) -Allegiance to her God (Yahweh)
How would she stay faithful to her word? -Initiative -Industrious -Humility (gratitude) -Faith in God
The Generosity of Boaz
Who is Boaz? -Prosperous -God-honoring -Close relative of Elimelech (go’el)
How did Boaz use his position & means? -Protection for Ruth -Provision for Ruth -Honor
The Grace of God -Connecting Ruth to Boaz -Preparing Boaz’ heart to be kind to Ruth -Bringing an abundant harvest -Watching over Naomi and Ruth -Providing a family redeemer in Boaz
Applications:
1- In your low moments, be faithful in the small things like Ruth.
2- In your best moments, be generous to others like Boaz.
3- In all your moments, thank God for His redeeming grace.
Proverbs 4:1-9
Definition of Wisdom
Value of Wisdom
Building Blocks of Wisdom
Parental Role in Imparting WIsdom -Teach Wisdom --- quick list of topics that are repeated over and over again in the book of Proverbs. 1. Friendship 2. Sex 3. Marriage 4. Finances 5. Words 6. Work 7. Integrity 8. Priorities 9. Compassion 10. Authority -Celebrate Wisdom -Model Wisdom
Portrait #1 - the angry parent - Ephesians 6:4a -We’ve got a problem - Romans 7:14-25 -God the Father has a solution - Hebrews 12:1-13: -11:6 -Diligently seek your father
Portrait #2 - the parent as a coach vs parents as a punisher - Ephesians 6:4b -obedience training -corrective training -repentance training
Practice until you can’t get it wrong. Nick Sabin
Portrait #3 - The Parent as Counselor -Be assertive listener and draw them out (James 1:19-20) -Call on the Father for wisdom (James 1:5-8) -Provide the Fathers Perspective (Romans 12:2) -Listen and Pray before you talk!
First, children are commanded to obey their parents. -What is obedience? -What does the phrase “in the Lord” mean? -Why obey our parents? -Are there any exceptions to this command? -What is disobedience? -Do I need to obey my parents my whole life?
The second command for children is to honor our parents. -What does it mean to honor? -How do we honor practically? -When do we honor them? -Why honor them?
Parenting Today #3 - The Gospel Solution
The Christian Way of Life (Titus 3:1-2)
How We Should Live Differently 1.) Submit to authority. 2.) Obey God. 3.) Do good works. 4.) Control your tongue. 5.) Be kind to everyone.
The Christian Message (Titus 3:3-7)
Why We Should Live Differently 1.) We were sinners without hope. 2.) God saved us by His mercy. 3.) God gave us a new heart by His Spirit. 4.) God justified us by His grace. 5.) God adopted us into His family.
Application for Parents:
Why This Matters 1.) Jesus is our message. 2.) Prayer is our weapon. 3.) Grace is our identity. 4.) Heaven is our home.
The Historical Background of Psalm 51: -King David’s sin against God in 2 Samuel 11-12
The Meaning of Psalm 51
1- Understanding Sin -Pride before God -Rebellion against God -Guilt under God
2- Understanding Repentance -Awareness of my true spiritual condition -Ownership of my responsibility for my sin -Turn from sin to God -A broken and humbled heart
3- Understanding Mercy -Grace comes from God -Forgiveness comes from God -A New Heart comes from God
The Application to Parenting
1- Parents and kids have the same heart problem.
2- Kids need to see their true spiritual condition.
3- A child's biggest struggle is not with their parents but with God.
4- A changed heart must precede lasting transformation.
Helpful Parenting Practices:
1- Model repentance to your kids.
2- Lift up the holiness of God.
3- Shepherd your child’s heart.
Easter 2019: First Things First 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
What is the most important news of Easter? (15:3-8) a.) Jesus died on the cross for our sins. (15:3) b.) Jesus rose from the dead on the third day. (15:4) c.) Jesus did all this according to the Scriptures. (15:3&4)
How should we respond to this news? (15:1-2) a.) We receive it (by faith). b.) We take our stand on it. c.) We are saved by it (past, present, and future).
Who is this news for? (15:9-11) a.) It is for people who are not worthy. b.) It is for people who own their sin. c.) It is for people who cling to grace. d.) It is for you.
Until Everyone Hears #5 (Romans 16:25-27)
The Doxology (declaration of glory) of Romans
Why end with a doxology?
Glory to God who is… 1. All-Powerful (vs. 25) 2. Eternal (vs. 26) 3. Only-Wise (vs. 27)
His Glory is Displayed in… 1. The Gospel of Jesus Christ 2. The Revelation of the Scriptures 3. The Mission of the Church
Soli Deo Gloria.
Until Everyone Hears #4 (Romans 16:17-23)
Final Warnings:
1- Avoid divisive people. (16:17)
2- Avoid deceiving people. (16:18)
Key Indicator: Their Motive. (16:18)
Practical Applications: Watch who you follow. Work for unity around the central things. Final Encouragement:
1- Be wise with what is good.
2- Be innocent with what is evil.
3- Be hopeful that God will win.
Practical Application: Don’t separate doctrine & daily life. Pursue obedience as passionately as you protect doctrine
Until Everyone Hears #3 KEY: God uses His church (ekklesia) to spread His gospel.
Our Identity as a Church Our Behavior as the Church
1- We are family.
1- We love one another.
2- We are diverse.
2- We honor one another. 3- We are coworkers.
3- We work hard. 4- We are dear friends.
4- We encourage one another. 5- We are fellow prisoners.
5- We suffer together. 6- We are saints.
6- We choose holiness.
WITH EYES ON EASTER: WHERE IS GOD WHEN YOU HURT? The Problem: Life is a flowing river interrupted by boulders of tragedy.
Our Response: in grief we search for answers to life's biggest questions.
Jesus knows what you're going through. John 11:1-16 Jesus cares about your greatest heartache. John 11: 17-36 Jesus paid the price to conquer your worst problems. John 11:37-53
Jesus provides an answer to life's biggest boulders - sin and death
Do you believe this?
Until Everyone Hears #2 (Romans 15:22-33)
The Call: Take the Gospel of Jesus to All People in All Places
The Question: How do we best support global mission work?
Four Parts to Supporting the Global Spread of the Gospel:
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Cross-cultural Travel Example from the Text: Application Today:
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Fellowship with LT Missionaries
Example from the Text: Application Today:
- Financial Contributions
Example from the Text: Application Today:
- Fervent Prayer
Example from the Text: Application Today:
Until Everyone Hears #1 (Romans 15:14-21)
Problem:
Part 1: People & Places that have no access to the gospel (15:20-21) Part 2: Christians who live good lives but don’t care about part 1
Solution: Every Christian on mission with Jesus in every place.
What does that include? (18-21) Proclamation of the Gospel with our Words Courage to GO Everywhere with the Gospel Demonstration of the Gospel with our Lives Dependence on the Power of the Spirit Application: You can’t give away what you don’t have. You can’t keep what really changes your life.
Walk It Out #7 (Romans 14:13-23) How do we walk out our faith to build up the family of believers?
Romans 14:1-12 was about our attitude toward other believers. Today’s passage is about our actions toward other believers.
Command: Don’t cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith.
How can the strong in faith help the weak in faith not to stumble? Limit your freedom for the sake of others. Don’t cause another believer to do something they have a personal conviction against. Keep your personal convictions to yourself. Why should we not cause our brothers & sisters to stumble in faith? We are family in Christ. We belong to a different Kingdom. We live for Jesus, not for self. The Application:
- Build others up.
- Develop personal convictions.
How should we walk out our faith toward government?
The Command: Submit to governing authorities (13:1, 5)
Why should we submit? Government is a God-ordained institution with divine authority. (13:1-2) Government has God-ordained responsibilities within human society. (13:4-5) How do we submit? We obey the law. (13:2) We do good to others. (13:3) We pay our taxes. (13:7) We show honor. (13:7) We pray. (1 Tim 2:1-4) Are there exceptions? Yes… When the government orders us to disobey God, we have to obey God. God is always the highest authority. When the government passes or enforces unjust laws, we have a responsibility before God to work for justice. Conclusions:
All authority (home, church, work, and state) is established by God, but not all use of authority is approved by God.
All authority figures are accountable to God for their use of power, and all those under authority are accountable to God for how they submit to authority
BIG PICTURE: Romans 12-16 teaches us that while our salvation is not based on our good works, it should result in good works.
How do we walk out our faith in a way that honors God?
We start with the right _________________.
We honor God with our ____________.
We renew our ____________ with God’s truth.
We ______________ and obey God’s will.
Advent 2018 #2: LOVE (1 John 4:7-21)
What kind of love did Jesus bring in His first coming?
Jesus brought ___________ love into the world (agape).
What are the defining characteristics of agape love?
It is _____________ love It is _____________ love It is _____________ love It is _____________ love It is _______________ love It is _______________________ love
What is the command to us today?
______________ God’s love
______________ God’s love to others
______________ to God’s love
Why is it hard to love others this way?
How does Jesus help us love this way?
- We possess a ___________ hope that is unlike anything in the world.
- We _________ to this hope unlike anything in the world.
- With this hope we ___________ something unlike anything in the world.
God’s Promises #7 (Romans 11:33-36)
In light of all that God has done for us in the gospel (Romans 1-5), all the Spirit is doing in us currently (Romans 6-8), and all that God will do for His people in the future (Romans 9-11), let us…
Reflect on the ___________ ______________ of God (11:33)
Keep our own ______________________ in mind (11:34-35)
___________________ the Lord together (11:36)
Final Application:
The important connection between __________ and _____________.
God’s Promises #6 (Romans 11:11-32)
At the end of this section on God’s Promises, what are Paul’s key takeaways for Gentile believers?
We need to _______________ God’s plan for Israel. (11:11-16)
We need to ______________ ourselves before God. (11:17-24)
We need to ________ that God is not finished working. (11:25-32)
Final Application:
God’s Promises #5 (Romans 11:1-10)
If Israel rejected the Messiah because of the sovereign plan of God (Ch. 9) and because they hardened heart toward the gospel (Ch. 10), does that mean God has rejected His people? (Romans 11:1)
Answer: Absolutely Not!
What is the EVIDENCE that God has not rejected His covenant people?
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__________________ The story of Paul – 11:1
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___________________ The story of Elijah – 11:2-4
The story of Moses – 11:7-8
The story of David – 11:9-10
- ____________________ The story of the Early Church – 11:5-6
What does this mean for us today?
Just as God did in biblical times, God today maintains a ___________ _______________ that is willing to trust Him regardless of the cost.
God’s Promises #4 (Romans 10:14-21)
The Pathway To Salvation
The Christian is Commissioned (vs. 15)
The Christian Proclaims the Gospel (vs. 14)
The Listener Hears the Gospel (vs. 14)
The Listener Believes the Gospel (vs. 14)
The Listener Calls on Jesus (vs. 14)
How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news! (Romans 10:15 | Isaiah 52:7)
Why then did Israel not receive Jesus their Messiah?
Was it because they didn’t hear the gospel? (vs. 18)
Was it because they didn’t understand the gospel? (vs. 19)
It was because they hardened their hearts. (vs. 21)
What’s our takeaway today?
Spiritual seeker: don’t harden your heart to the gospel.
Christian: stay on message and stay on mission.
God’s Promises #3 (Romans 10:1-13)
Core Questions Every Human Should Ask and Answer…
Is There a God?
What is God Like?
How can I be in Right Relationship with the True God?
What then should I do?
God’s Promises #3 (Romans 10:1-13) Core Questions Every Human Should Ask and Answer…
Is There a God?
What is God Like?
How can I be in Right Relationship with the True God?
What then should I do?
God’s Promises #2 – Romans 9:19-33
The question of Romans 9:19-33: If God is sovereign over the hearts of people, then why does He still hold Israel responsible for unbelief?
Four Answers:
The _______________ of God (9:20-21) The _______________ of God (9:22-24) The _______________ of God (9:25-29) The _____________________ of Humans (9:30-33)
Two Uncomfortable Truths:
Not everyone goes to _______________ when they die.
_______________ people are equally at risk of eternal judgment as __________________ people.
Now what?
God’s Promises #2 – Romans 9:19-33 The question of Romans 9:19-33: If God is sovereign over the hearts of people, then why does He still hold Israel responsible for unbelief?
Four Answers: The _______________ of God (9:20-21) The _______________ of God (9:22-24) The _______________ of God (9:25-29) The _____________________ of Humans (9:30-33)
Two Uncomfortable Truths:
Not everyone goes to _______________ when they die. _______________ people are equally at risk of eternal judgment as __________________ people.
Now what?
The Promises of God #1 – Romans 9:1-18
The primary question of Romans 9… How can we trust God’s promise to love us forever (8:37-39) if God didn’t keep His promises to Israel?
Two reasons for the question: (9:1-5)
The Jewish ____________ of the Gospel The OT ________________ of God to Israel
Two answers to the question:
OT Truth: Physical _______________ does not guarantee spiritual ________________. (9:6-8) NT Parallel: Church ________________ and/or Christian ______________ do not guarantee personal salvation.
OT Truth: God sovereignly ____________ the objects of His mercy. (9:9-18) NT Parallel: God sovereignly chooses who will ___________ and be saved. (Jesus in John 13:18)
Our Response to this Truth:
_______________ in God’s promises. _______________ in our salvation. _______________ in our evangelism.
Swimming Upstream #5 – THE VULNERABLE
When we see someone in need around us, how do we respond?
FIRST cultural narrative: God helps those who help themselves.
SECOND cultural narrative: The government should help those who can’t help themselves.
The danger of these two narratives: we avoid any ________________ for helping our neighbor.
The Way of Jesus is to use our strength, influence, power, and resources to ___________ the vulnerable and help the weak.
How do we know that this is the Way of Jesus?
God is the ultimate _____________ of the vulnerable. Jesus __________ for us and taught us to help those in need. The early church took care of needs in their midst.
Who are the vulnerable and weak that God wants us to help?
How can you be more personally involved in helping the weak and protecting the vulnerable?
Swimming Upstream #4 – MARRIAGE
Marriage in America today is trapped between two narratives:
1 – __________________________: if I find and connect with the right person, then I will finally be happy and whole.
The Bible reframes this narrative on three fronts:
First, only _______ can satisfy the deepest longings of your heart. (Psalm 16:11)
Second, _____________ is a high and holy calling and marriage is not required to be fully human or fully alive. (1 Cor 7:8)
Third, marriage is _____________ and not a part of the eternal state. (Luke 20:34-36)
#2 – _______________________________: the goal of life is to discover who I am and what makes me happy and to live out and express my personal desires.
The Bible reframes this narrative on three fronts:
First, we should see marriage through an __________________ lens, not a selfish lens. (Philippians 2:3-4)
Second, we need to honor marriage as a community. (Hebrews 13:4) Biblically, marriage is a lifelong _______________ relationship between one woman and one man to be faithful to each other and to follow God’s design for the marriage roles. (Genesis 2:24-25)
Third, marriage is ultimately about __________ because marriage is a picture of Christ’s relationship with His people. (Ephesians 5:32)
Swimming Upstream #3 – GENDER
Cultural Narrative on Gender:
Problems with the Cultural Narrative on Gender:
Biblical Narrative on Gender:
Where does this narrative (equal but distinct) come from in the Bible?
Men & Women are EQUAL in… …moral dignity, value, and ________ (Gen 1:26-27) …__________ to God through Jesus Christ (Gal 3:27-28) …spiritual ______________ and skillfulness (1 Cor 12:7) …knowledge, wisdom, and ____________ (Eph 4:11-13)
The Way of Jesus is radically _________________.
Men & Women are DIFFERENT… …in physical _____________ (Gen 2:18) …in creation _____________ (Gen 2:21-25) …in roles in the _____________ (Eph 5:21-33) …in roles in the ______________ (1 Tim 3:1-7) …in ___________________ (Gen 3:9)
What does this mean for how I see myself?
How can I help those struggling with their gender identity?
What does this mean for how I see the opposite gender?
Swimming Upstream #2 – Truth “What is truth?” John 18:37-38 Truth is the correspondence between what we say and ___________.
Cultural Narrative on Truth: Truth is The Problems with this Narrative:
Christian Narrative on Truth: Truth is
What is the SOURCE of truth? Ultimately, all truth is rooted in ___________. The God of all truth reveals truth to us in His ___________. We believe in the ________________ of the Bible We believe in the _____________ of the Bible We believe in the _______________ of the Bible We believe in the ________________ of the Bible
Why does this matter to us today?
Everything flows downstream from your ________ of truth. Walking in the Truth sets us _________ (John 8:32).
Swimming Upstream #1 - UNITY
One of the greatest challenges to following Jesus is that His ways are so different from what comes __________ to us and is ____________ in the larger culture.
“Do not be conformed to this age…” – Romans 12:2 “They are not of the world…” – John 17:16
To follow Christ faithfully, we must be willing to swim upstream against the __________ ____________ of our contemporary culture, and yet do it in such a way that is humble, gracious, and loving.
Jesus prays that His church will be unified (John 17:21). Yet, we live in an age of __________ and never-ending ___________.
The Way of Jesus feeds unity, while our way feeds division…
The Way of Jesus is the way of _________, not the way of _________. What is a culture of grievance?
The Way of Jesus is the way of speaking the ________ in love, not the way of _______. What is a culture of gossip?
How can we swim upstream against division and work for unity?
Know who we are ______________. (Galatians 3:28)
Do ________ to people _______ to resolve conflict. (Matthew 18:15)
Practice __________ with God and with people. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Sermon Outline The wonderful results of our justification in Christ… 1- _____________ with God: Reconciliation (5:1, 10-11) 2- Ongoing Access to ________________ (5:2) 3- _____________ in Affliction (5:3-4, 11) 4- Security in God’s _____________ (5:5-8) 5- Future _______________ (5:9-10) Now What?
Sermon Outline What do we learn about genuine faith from Abraham’s life?
Genuine faith humbles our moral _______________ because salvation doesn’t come by obeying the law. (4:13-15)
Law --> Transgression --> Wrath Promise --> Faith --> Heir
Genuine faith undermines _______________________ because salvation is not exclusive to one people-group or nation. (4:16-18)
Genuine faith is always ________________. (4:19-22)
Abraham’s tests:
Abraham’s faith: he believed that God was more powerful than the impossible ______________________ before him.
What does this mean for us?
We can trust in God because He has _____________________ His power in the cross and resurrection of Jesus. (4:23-25)
Sermon Outline Joy is the emotion we feel when someone is ___________ to be with us.
_________ is always glad to be with us.
Is it really a big deal to God that He is with us? God ________________ us so He can be with us.
Jesus _____________ the highest price for us so He can be with us.
The Lord ___________________ a place for us so He can be with us.
God’s invitation to eternal joy and happiness:
Personal Study Guide Sermon Response: What was your primary take-away from the sermon on Sunday? How did the Lord challenge you to apply the truth that you heard? Study the Word: Read Genesis 28:10-17. What is the difference between people climbing the ladder to get to God, and God descending the ladder to get to us? Read Philippians 2:5-8 and Hebrews 12:2. What did Jesus give up to come to earth? What motivated him to endure the brutality of the cross? Read Isaiah 65:17-19 and Revelation 21:1-4. How would the union of a New Heaven and a New Earth make eternity more joyful for you? What are some of the things you are planning to do there? Personal Application: Do you believe that God is glad to be with you? Why or why not?
Have you opened the door of your heart to Christ? Do you enjoy dining with Him daily? How do you do that in practical terms?
Sermon Outline Obstacles to Joy Rhythms of Joy 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5.
Personal Study Guide Sermon Response: What was your primary take-away from the sermon on Sunday? How did the Lord challenge you to apply the truth that you heard? Study the Word: Read Exodus 20:8-11 and Mark 2:23-28. Why did God give His people the Sabbath requirement? How does Jesus’ teaching on the Sabbath help us better understand the commandment’s purpose? Read Philippians 4:10-14. According to Paul, what is the key to experiencing joy in each and every circumstance? Why is contentment so hard to maintain in our culture today? Personal Application: Based on the list of obstacles to joy in the sermon on Sunday, which one is the biggest challenge for you? Why do you think that obstacle is such a big deal in your life?
Which rhythm of happiness do you need to start practicing in your life? What would it look like to add that to your schedule? Who can you ask to hold you accountable for that new rhythm?
Sermon Outline The Story of Creation
Why This World Never Fully Satisfies
The Pathway to Joy
Specific Examples
Personal Study Guide Sermon Response: What was your primary take-away from the sermon on Sunday? How did the Lord challenge you to apply the truth that you heard? Study the Word: Read Ecclesiastes 2:1-11. What did Solomon learn from his search for joy? Read Ecclesiastes 12:12-14. Based on his life and experiences, what did Solomon most want his son to know? Read Ecclesiastes 5:18-19 and Exodus 20:1-6. What is the difference between enjoying God’s creation and making an idol out of God’s creation? How do you know when you have crossed the line from one to the other? Personal Application: What has been your experience with searching for joy inside of creation? What has brought you the most joy and the most pain? What conclusions have you come to about the search for joy?
What parts of God’s creation are you most tempted to turn into an idol in your own life? What has been the result of putting things (or people) ahead of God in your life?
Sermon Outline Persevere in the ________________ of the Gospel
Persevere in the ________________ of the Gospel
Prepare for the ______________ of Sharing the Gospel
The Power to Persevere
Personal Study Guide Sermon Response: What was your primary take-away from the sermon on Sunday? How did the Lord challenge you to apply the truth that you heard?
Study the Word: Read 2 Timothy 1:8-12 and 1 Timothy 2:3-7. What are the similarities between these two passages? How does Paul understand his own identity/calling? What does he teach as the core of the gospel message?
Read 2 Timothy 1:13-18 and 2 Corinthians 4:7-18. How does Paul keep on going when his co-laborers in the ministry abandon him? What convictions help him to persevere in the midst of hard times?
Personal Application: In what ways are you tempted to distort the gospel in your own mind? How can you regularly remind yourself of the core elements of the Christian faith as part of your spiritual disciplines?
Would you say that you are courageous or timid with the gospel? Search your own heart: what causes you to not speak up more often about your faith in Christ?
Sermon Outline 2 Timothy 1:1-7 Setting the Stage The Author: The Audience: The Timeline: The Context: The Connection: What God Has Given Us Grace, Mercy, & ____________ in Christ Generational __________________ Loving Mentors & _______________ ______________ by the Spirit
What God Asks of Us Keep _______________ Your Faith in Christ Embrace the Right _______________
Personal Study Guide Sermon Response: What was your primary take-away from the sermon on Sunday? How did the Lord challenge you to apply the truth that you heard? Study the Word: Read 2 Timothy 1:1-5, 1 Corinthians 4:15-17, and Acts 16:1-5. Based on these passages, how would you describe Paul’s relationship with Timothy? Why do you think they created such a strong bond? Read 2 Timothy 1:6-7 and 1 Timothy 4:11-16. What was the “gift” that Timothy received through the “laying on of hands by the elders”? What does Paul challenge Timothy to do with this gift? Personal Application: In what seasons of your life has your faith been strongest and in what seasons has it been weakest? What can you learn from your own spiritual journey about what is required to keep the fire of your faith ablaze?
What causes you the most fear in your life right now? How does the spirit of fear compete with your faith in God? What Scriptures can you memorize to help you fight your fear and grow your faith?