Thu, 27 December 2018
The Promise Luke 1:26-35 |
Thu, 27 December 2018
The Light of the World! John 1: 1-14 |
Mon, 17 December 2018
Participating in the Promise Luke 1:67-80 Dr. Jim Bankhead |
Mon, 10 December 2018
Believing the Lord! |
Tue, 4 December 2018
What does a Family Tree, An Angel, THE MIRACLE, Luke 1:36-47
Family Tree
An Angel
THE MIRACLE
And a 15-year-old Girl
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Mon, 26 November 2018
Practicing Thanksgiving |
Mon, 19 November 2018
Dr. Jim Bankhead preaches from Luke 19:1-9, 21:1-4 |
Mon, 12 November 2018
Nov. 11: Following the Lord's Giving Pattern |
Mon, 5 November 2018
Dr. Jim Bankhead preaches from Joshua 24:1-5, 14-28. |
Mon, 29 October 2018
Transitional Pastor Dr. Jim Bankhead preaches from 2 Kings 22. |
Mon, 22 October 2018
Oct. 21: God's Government's Benefits Matthew 6:24-34 |
Mon, 15 October 2018
Oct. 14: The Gospels of the Kingdom of God! |
Mon, 8 October 2018
Rev. Chris Handley delivers the sermon, Life is Fragile, from 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. |
Mon, 1 October 2018
Sept. 30, 2018: The Amazing Story 2 Timothy 3:16 |
Mon, 24 September 2018
Preparing for the Storm Matthew 7:24-29 |
Mon, 10 September 2018
How Can I Examine Myself? 2 Corinthians 13:5-10 |
Mon, 10 September 2018
THE CONTEXT Paul wrote Ephesians while in prison, and therefore, had time to reflect and add theological/doctrinal detail. It makes one realize that God works his purposes in our lives through the good times and through the difficulties. Prison gave Paul the time he needed to give us a rich and thorough sense of what God has done for us through his Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
INTRODUCTION “The opening section of Ephesians (1:3–2:10), which describes the new life God has given us in Christ, divides itself naturally into two halves, the first consisting of praise and the second of prayer. In the ‘praise’ half, Paul blesses God because He has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing (1:3–14); while in the ‘prayer’ half he asks that God will open our eyes to grasp the fullness of this blessing (1:15–2:10).” Observing Paul’s focused praise helps us approach the table of our Lord today.
Chronicles’ Gate?
Explosion of Praise
The Tragedy and Glory of it!
Perspective is everything!
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Mon, 27 August 2018
Make the most of the TIME Ephesians 5
CONTEXT Ephesians was a cyclical letter that was to be sent to many churches in the area around Ephesus (southern Turkey). Paul wrote while in prison and therefore had time to add theological/doctrinal detail. The first half of the letter emphasizes the status of believers as “saved by grace not by works.” And because of that, now we (believers) are “In Christ”; a phrase Paul uses 34 times in Ephesians.
The latter half of the letter is encouragement/challenge to grow in maturity and live imitating Jesus during the “time/kairos” (verse 15).
INTRODUCTION Pooh logic
Maturity is the goal.
TIME is of the essence
“I am with you.” How is he with you?
Playbook
Audible
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Mon, 20 August 2018
Guest preacher Rev. Dr. Cody Watson preaches from Luke 24. |
Mon, 13 August 2018
Guest preacher Rev. James Braswell's sermon from Romans 5:1-11 |
Mon, 6 August 2018
August 5: Carpe Diem … Pro Agnus Dei Revelation 5
Revelation was written as a message of encouragement and exhortation to the seven churches of Asia sometime between 92 AD and 96 AD. Peter and Paul had been crucified and Timothy murdered by this time. Domitian was the Emperor, and he was requiring that the subjects of Rome worship him as Lord and God. They were required to go to the temple and state, “Ceasar is Lord.” Those who did not make this confession were punished and even killed. John had been arrested and exiled to the island of Patmos to work in the Roman quarries. This pressure, along with the many benefits of living under Roman rule, caused the need to see things as they really are. Therefore, God gave John the “Revelation.”
I. Carpe Diem
II. Our days are numbered
III. The Mystery Revealed
IV. He will reign? He reigns?
V. Now
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Mon, 30 July 2018
Don’t waste MY time!
Luke was written to remind us “all that Jesus began to do and to teach.” (Acts 1:1 ) Luke’s work is “from the beginning” (comprehensive) “carefully” done (accurate); and “orderly” (organized in a formal literary manner) (Luke 1:2). Luke’s goal in writing is to convince Theophilus (and us) of the truth and certainty of the person and work of Jesus!
Jesus uses this well-known parable as a means to respond to the challenge of a religious lawyer, who wants to discredit Jesus’s use of the Law of God. The lawyer’s challenge gives Jesus the opportunity to emphasize the kind of life that pleases God. Eternal Life (All Time) is given to those who live according to the Law of God, the Law of love.
II. Don’t Waste My Time III. Use of Time B. Samaritan IV. Repent of time idolatry |
Mon, 23 July 2018
I. Cameryn Brand II. Mary Catherine Rawlinson |
Mon, 16 July 2018
JULY 15: Wait a Minute Mark 5:21-43
INTRODUCTION The gospel of Mark is split into two distinct sections. Mark 1-8 answers the question, “Who is Jesus?” Jesus asks his disciples in Mark 8:29: “Who do you say I am?” Therefore in one scenario after another leading up to that question, Jesus demonstrates who he is! Then in the remainder of Mark (9-16) it describes what Jesus, the Christ, came to do!
CONTEXT After commanding the storm (nature) to be still (Mark 4) and overcoming the Legion of demons (spiritual world) in the demoniac (Mark 5A) Jesus overwhelms the slow death of a woman and the early death of a little girl. I. Just wait a minute! II. The cry for help! III. Malpractice IV. His promise, Your posture
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Mon, 9 July 2018
Are You a Boat Potato? Matthew 14:22-33 |
Tue, 3 July 2018
July 1: Paul: A Model of Christian Leadership Colossians 1:24-29
BACKGROUND “Concerning their genre, the Pauline letters are just that — highly personal letters written either to members of his mission teams or to the mission churches he had planted; and as personal letters, they reflect the style of the man and his times and circumstances.”
INTRODUCTION Colossae was a town in the Lycus Valley in what today is Turkey. The congregation in Colossae was founded by a disciple of Paul, Epaphras. This letter is personal and passionate while at the same time gives us some of the most profound insight into the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Col. 1:15-20). Paul, though having never visited Colossae, feels a great burden for the congregation and does all he can to encourage and exhort this young congregation. I. Thank God for Influencers II. Paul’s goal as a servant/influencer! A. To make the word of God fully known. (Col. 3:16) B. To make the people of God fully mature
III. Christ in you … the hope of glory A. To live is Christ (Phil 1:21) B. To die is gain/heaven
IV. Maturity Requires Warnings and Teachings (2 Timothy 3:16) V. Fellowship in Christ’s Suffering and Toiling in God’s Power (Col. 2:12)
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Mon, 25 June 2018
June 24: The Starting Point and The Finishing Place Matthew 16:13-19 INTRODUCTION Most of us in our memory bank have stored special places and special people that we associate with a marriage, a job, a first home, a school, or a significant accomplishment. These “first memories” are powerful reminders of experiences and people who shaped us. They are “grounding points” that keep us rooted in our past, faithful in our present, and hopeful in our future.
CONTEXT Jesus and his disciples have been busy! So, he takes them on a retreat. They go up a mountain with a vista of Caesarea Philippi and there the disciples are confronted with a crucial question from Jesus, “Who do you say that I am?” How they answer that question shapes their own identity and purpose in life. The same is true for you and me!
CONTENT #1 A. Identity vv13-16 *We discover who we are in light of who Jesus is!!! B. Who is Jesus? Acts 2:36, 4:12, Phil 2:9-11, Col 1:15-20 C. Who am I? vv17-18
#2 Purpose v18-19, Gen 12:1-3, Mat 28:18-20 *We are here to make a difference!!! |
Mon, 18 June 2018
June 17: Facing the Lions Daniel 6 INTRODUCTION CONTEXT CONTENT
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Mon, 11 June 2018
Hey! Do you know who you are? Romans 8:1-2,12-22 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,17 and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, (ESV) INTRODUCTION: This chapter is considered by many to be the “Mount Everest” of scripture. BACKGROUND: Romans was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome, which he had never visited. Paul wrote with regards to the big picture — laying down the doctrine of salvation and its benefits. He desperately wants them to know the gospel of Christ, and it impacts their life.
a. b.
Direct download: 2018-06-10_Hey_Do_You_Know_Who_You_Are_Audio.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:40am EDT |
Mon, 4 June 2018
June 3: The Courage to Take a Stand Daniel 1 INTRODUCTION It’s easy to take the “easy way” out! The only problem with that strategy is that sometimes the easy way is not the right way. How difficult it is to take a stand for a cause when most people are not willing to stand with you. It’s tempting to do what everyone else is doing and not only to follow the crowd but also to blend in with the crowd when we know that the destination is contrary to God’s desire. CONTEXT Daniel had been ripped away from his home in Jerusalem. He had been forced into exile in Babylon. Because of his immense intelligence and education, Daniel was given the opportunity to be “assimilated” into the culture of Babylon and the ways of King Nebuchadnezzar. All that Daniel had to do was to be willing to live just like everyone else. But such a compromise ran counter to his convictions as a follower of the Lord. He took a stand! CONTENT I. Daniel’s Life in Babylon B. God’s hand in history 1:2, 1:9, 1:17 (Is 39:6-7) C. Daniel’s “Stand” and refusal to take the “Easy Way” v8 The outcome vv15-17, 20-21 II. When to Take a Stand #1 Is it right? Jn 17:17, Micah 6:8, Ps 106:3, Phil 4:8-9 (example of Joshua — Josh 24:15 & others) #2 Is it necessary? (Is now the time?) Gal 4:4, Eccl 3:1 (2-8)
Direct download: 2018-06-03_The_Courage_to_Take_a_Stand.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:35am EDT |
Tue, 29 May 2018
May 27, 2018: God’s Graffiti Daniel 5 INTRODUCTION Imagine that you get a note today that says (and there is TV commercial that shows this happening), TODAY YOU WILL HAVE A HEART ATTACK! How would you respond to that shocking message? No one knows what a day will bring … not even if you are a king or queen for the day. ONLY GOD KNOWS … AND CONTROLS. CONTEXT Belshazzar is “king for the day.” Actually, he is the king’s son and because his father is elsewhere, Belshazzar is appointed to lead. He throws a party! In the midst of wine flowing, a heart-stopping event occurs. A hand writes a message on the wall that only a man of God, Daniel, can decipher. His message is a wake-up call for an individual and a nation.
CONTENT I. God Crashes the Party
Understanding the “handwriting on the wall” v17, 28-31
II. Deeper Truths (Your days are numbered! Ps 90:1-6,12) #1 God is Sovereign v18-19, Is 45:5-7; 43:11-13; 42:5-8 #2 The need to HUMBLE ourselves under God v20, 22, II Chron 7:14 The need to turn to God … NOW! |
Mon, 21 May 2018
May 20: What Happens When the Holy Spirit Shows Up Acts 2:41-47 INTRODUCTION All of us are alive! But too many of us simply exist. We get up; we eat; we go about our daily activities. We wind down at night; we go to bed; and we get up to repeat the cycle. Is there more to life than this? The Good News is — there is a whole lot more to living. When God, the Holy Spirit, enters our life, we are liberated to enjoy and experience life in ways that not only satisfy us but also impact the lives of others. CONTEXT These two passages provide us with snapshots of what happens to people when the Holy Spirit fills their lives. Acts 2 centers on the lifestyle of 3,000+ believers and Acts 4 identifies a person (Barnabas) whose life becomes a constant source of encouragement to others. Both are vivid examples of the power of the Holy Spirit.
CONTENT
A Word to the Wise — Luke 10:25-37
Direct download: What_Happens_When_the_Holy_Spirit_Shows_Up.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:32am EDT |
Mon, 14 May 2018
May 13: The Power of Love INTRODUCTION One of the most underutilized and yet, plentiful and powerful resources in our life is LOVE. Love is a medicine that can bring healing to broken hearts. This love is personal. It’s rooted in God. This love is powerful. When people have given up on life, the love of God never gives up on them. CONTEXT The book of Ruth could open with the description, “It was the worst of times ...” The nation of the Hebrews was strangled by a paralyzing drought. As a result, CONTENT I. When Life Gets Messy A. Unexpected deaths vv3-5 #1 I will be with you Heb 13:5, Mat 28:20 A Final Word — The origins of love v16, I Jn 4:7-11 |
Mon, 7 May 2018
May 7: Teach Your Children Well Deuteronomy 6:4-9
INTRODUCTION Repetition is a wonderful teacher. Redundancy is a vital ingredient in effective communication. Repeating is not necessarily bad! We learn by doing something over and over again. We also learn by hearing and seeing and saying things multiple times. This morning’s passage was meant to be repeated by parents and mentors so that a next generation would be fully equipped to follow God and live purposeful lives. That’s as true today as it was thousands of years ago!
CONTEXT The people of God were perched and ready to enter the Promised Land. But before they did, Moses reminded them of some important responsibilities. God inspired Moses with these words in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, which were meant to be a prayer. In fact, this was the first prayer Jesus’ parents taught him!
CONTENT I. A Conviction v4, Jn 14:6, I Cor 3:11, Ps 127:1 Question: What are your convictions about God and who God is? II. A Passion v5, II Cor 5:14 Question: Who has your heart? Who or what are you passionate about? III. A Mission vv7-9, Ephesians 6:4 Question: Parents (and Covenant Partners) when it comes to your children what is your foundational mission?
Direct download: 0506018_Teach_Your_Children_Well_Audio.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:17am EDT |
Mon, 30 April 2018
Be Ready Matthew 25:1-13 INTRODUCTION Jesus Christ often spoke in parables. A parable is very simply defined as an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. Parables were told to portray a spiritual lesson in a way that was clear and memorable. Matthew 25 is made up of three parables about the return of the Lord.
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Mon, 23 April 2018
The Path to Fellowship 1 John 1
INTRODUCTION John in our passage emphasizes the physical reality of the person of Jesus when He was in this world. Evidently some regarded Jesus Christ as a phantom or spirit. John’s concern is that Christians have true fellowship with God, and the test of such fellowship is that it will be through the person of Jesus.
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Mon, 16 April 2018
April 15: Open Doors and Opposition I Corinthians 16:7-9, 13-14 INTRODUCTION “Take the path of least resistance.” That’s a common piece of wisdom that many of us have used in making decisions. We have a tendency when faced with important choices to make the one which is easiest … the one that requires the least effort … the one that appeals to our personal desires. But be careful because often the door through which God leads us is one which is accompanied by great challenges. CONTEXT Paul is given an invitation to visit his friends in Corinth. He’s wanted in Corinth. He’s been used by God in Corinth. However, he chooses to stay in Ephesus. He chooses to stay in a church that has been riddled with problems and full of challenges. His obedience to God led him through a door that was demanding and difficult. CONTENT
#1 External Challenges Acts 14:19-20, 17:6
#2 Internal Challenges Fear Num 13 Near-sighted Jer 29:10-11
Final Advice on Going through Open Doors vv13-14 Focus — “watch” v13, Heb 12:2 Foundation — “stand firm” v13, I Cor 3:11 Live out of the center of Who You Are — “love” v14, I Jn 4:7
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Mon, 9 April 2018
April 8: The Man Who Missed Easter John 20:19-31
INTRODUCTION “I wouldn’t miss it for anything in the world.” That’s a common comment to an uncommon “happening.” A family member’s wedding, a graduation, a retirement dinner, a baptism … the list is long but the sense of needing to be present prevails.
CONTEXT Jesus appeared to a small group of his followers on that first Easter evening. Understandably, they were overjoyed. Thomas, one of the disciples, was not present. When he heard their reports, he needed more evidence. So, Jesus met Thomas where he was! Thomas responded with one of the most powerful, insightful views of the real Jesus, “My Lord and my God.”
CONTENT
#1 Thomas was WELCOME by the community of believers vv24-26 #2 INVESTIGATION…Jesus moves toward Thomas vv26-27 #3 EXHORTATION v27 #4 PROFESSION v28
3. The Life of Faith…for you and me A step of faith v29 An informed faith vv30-31, Rom 10:17, II Tim 3:16, II Pet 1:16-21
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Tue, 3 April 2018
The Road to Life Luke 24:13-35
INTRODUCTION All of us are travelers. Some of us like to travel, others of us tolerate travel. Some of us are anxious to get some place and others of us are ready to get away from some place. Whether you like it or not, you are on a journey. If you get to where you are going, will you be satisfied with where you are?
CONTEXT Jesus is dead! Two eyewitnesses of his crucifixion are on the road that leads from Jerusalem to Emmaus, a small village about 7 miles away. Their tone is somber, their walk is slow, and their footsteps are heavy with grief. As they travel, they are intersected by a man who changes the direction of their life.
CONTENT
#1 Our Mind … engaged by Scripture vv25-27, Is 53:4-10, Rom 10:17, II Pet 1:16,20-21
#2 Our Eyes … opened by God v31, I Cor 12:3; Eph 2:1-9
#3 Our Purpose … confirmed vv33-35; II Cor 5:17; Jn 10:10 A change of life … a change of Direction!
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Mon, 26 March 2018
When Jesus Moves In Matthew 21:1-14
IINTRODUCTION Sometimes there is a huge “gap” between “expectations” and “reality.” Think about how you approached the golden age of “getting your driver’s license.” For most of us, we thought, “Driving is a piece of cake … so easy. Anybody can do it, especially me!” But the reality of driving was filled with fears like: “Am I in the center of the lane? How do I enter this bustling interstate?” and countless other concerns. What does it mean for you and me to be a Christ Follower? If we were to trust Jesus Christ to “save us” then what challenges and changes would be involved?
CONTEXT Jesus comes to town! Matthew 21 is Jesus “Coming Out Party.” Up until now, Jesus has kept relatively silent about his Lordship … the fact that he is the Messiah. But that’s over, now he enters Jerusalem humbly riding on a donkey. However, he also comes as the King of Kings to liberate his people. They cry out, “Hosanna,” which means “save us … now.” Jesus will do exactly that, but the reality of his salvation is different than their expectation.
CONTENT
#1 Adjust your understanding of Lordship (leadership) vv2,5,
#2 Adjust your understanding of Salvation Is 53:5-6, II Cor 5:21
#3 Adjust your expectations of Life with Jesus Gal 2:20, Ps 34:17-20, II Cor 11:24-28
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Mon, 19 March 2018
March 18: Caught in the Act Caught in the Act John 8:1-11 INTRODUCTION We’ve all been there and done that! Every one of us has at times found ourselves having done something that has brought pain to others and shame to us. We may try to cover up our moral failures — our sins — and look fine from the outside. But inside we hear the verdict reverberating — GUILTY. CONTEXT John 8 centers on a court case. Jesus is thrust into the roles of both lawyer and judge. At first sight, the case seems open and shut … an easy verdict upon a woman caught in the act of adultery. But the ruling which Jesus brings surprises and liberates … not just the woman but you and me, too! CONTENT
#1 Quit judging others Mat 7:1-5, Jms 5:16, 19-20 #2 Quit beating yourself up Jer 31:3, Is 43:1, Jn 3:16-17, Rom 8:1 |
Mon, 12 March 2018
John 15:1-11 1. I am the True Vine |
Mon, 5 March 2018
When Religion Falls Flat John 3:1-17
INTRODUCTION Religion can be defined as our attempt to earn a relationship with God. Christianity can be defined as God’s gift of a relationship with us through Jesus Christ. One approach may keep you busy but it will never achieve what you desire. The other approach is life-giving but demands that we take our eyes off ourselves and fix our eyes upon Jesus.
CONTEXT Nicodemus is a good guy! He’s extremely religious. He is a student of the Scriptures. He is a leader amongst his peers. Yet for all the wonderful qualities which Nicodemus has, he is seeking something more. In some strange way, he senses that “something” is really “someone” and that “someone” is Jesus.
CONTENT
#1 Experiencing God begins with God creating life in you v6, Ezek 37:1-14; 36:25-27
#2 You need GOD (and so do I) Our need vv13-15, Numbers 21:4-9
God’s gift vv16-17, Rom 8:1-3
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Mon, 26 February 2018
When Temptation Knocks at Your Door Luke 4:1-13
Temptation is a fact of life! No matter how old or young we are, all of us are susceptible to temptation. As one person said, “I can resist anything … except temptation!” The Good News is that we can resist temptation … but we cannot resist it in our power and by our own strategies. Jesus has just been baptized and heard the affirmation of God the Father, “This is my beloved Son.” (Lk 3:23) Now the Spirit of God leads Jesus into the wilderness. After 40 days of not eating and subject to isolation, a lonely, tired, hungry Jesus is vulnerable to temptation … and a Fall! I. Three Temptations with Deadly Potential #1 Point of Weakness (Lust of the Eyes) vv1-3, Deut 8:3 II. Dealing with Temptations that can bring us down #1 Get real … temptation is a part of life I Cor 10:12 |
Mon, 19 February 2018
February 18: Living a Lifestyle of Reconciliation 2 Corinthians 5:12-21 |
Mon, 12 February 2018
Colossians 2:1-7
Background Paul traveled through the Middle East and Europe extensively in three different missionary journeys. But, he never visited Colossae. Paul’s presence, however, was felt as Paul’s disciples, Tychicus, Onesimus, and Epaphras, had significant involvement in planting and nurturing this young church. But, as we see from our passage, Paul’s presence was felt through his prayer ministry. He called this ministry a “great struggle.” Paul’s message in Colossians 1 is that believers celebrate the Hope of Glory, i.e. Christ in Us. Yet we tend to settle for less. So he prays. Let us listen and learn from his heart.
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Mon, 5 February 2018
The Story of Glory
Colossians 1:24-29
Colossians Background: Paul never visited Colossae but he sent some of his disciples to encourage this small house church (Epaphras, Tychicus, and Onesimus). In this letter he offers encouragement to believers in Colossae to fortify them for a faith-filled life. The message of chapter one is a strong statement of the life of believer as one who bears fruit and increases in the knowledge of God. Then he gives a strong statement about the second person of the Trinity, Jesus Christ. He is God’s image! Then Paul uses the idea of the revealed “mystery” to capture the idea that even Gentiles are a part of God’s redemptive work.
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Mon, 29 January 2018
The Lord’s Prayer, Transformation, and the Kingdom of Heaven Matthew 6: 5-15 |
Mon, 22 January 2018
INTRODUCTION Jesus is baptized near the end of Luke 3. Then Luke, in Chapter 4, records the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. The first thing Jesus experiences is his temptation. During this moment Jesus demonstrates his reliance on the Word of God as he recites to Satan scripture that stands against Satan’s lies and temptations. Soon afterward, Jesus begins teaching his ministry in Nazareth in the Synagogue quoting scripture from Isaiah (61), which said, “the Spirit of Lord is on me.” First, the crowds marvel at Him but then turn on him, claiming He had blasphemed. Jesus in Chapter 5 moves from Nazareth to Capernaum, where he finds a family of fishermen open to Him and his ministry (Peter, James, and John). Every move Jesus made seems controversial: healings, Sabbath practices, and even his association/friendships, and his powerful demonstrations were capturing the public’s attention. It seems like he postured for great success. How does he move forward?
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Tue, 16 January 2018
Shape Up: Maturity is Listening and Obeying! Matthew 7:21-27
INTRODUCTION The Sermon on the Mount is the longest portion of teaching recorded of Jesus. The whole sermon is recorded for us in Matthew 5-7 or in Luke 6. It speaks of the blessedness of a believer and different issues related to living the life of a believer.
Jesus, in Chapter 7 of Matthew, concludes his sermon warning of false prophets, (v15-20); the reality of false believers (21-23); and how to prepare for the coming storm at the end of time (vv.24-27).
This passage challenges us to develop the ability to hear and then obey. This ability is a primary sign of maturity.
I. Where are you headed?
II. False Believers vs True Believers
III. Goal is to develop the Character of Christ and the Competency
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Mon, 8 January 2018
Shape Up! Ephesians 4:1-17
INTRODUCTION Ephesians is a letter written to the Church, not to any one congregation. It serves as the constitution of the church.
In the first three chapters of the letter you find the theological moorings for life with God. Ephesians 2:8 has the famous quote: “We are saved by grace not by works.” At the end of Ephesians 3, Paul prays that the Church might attain the knowledge of God in Jesus Christ and grow up into being the fullness of Christ in this world.
Chapter 4 is where Paul lays out how to live consistently with who God is and what he has done in Jesus. In Chapter 4, there are three movements within the verses: 1) Verses 1-6 are about unity. 2) Verses 7-11 are about diversity. 3) Verses 12-16 are about maturity.
I. Getting into Shape.
II. Difficulties.
III. Goal is to develop the Character of Christ and the Competency of Christ.
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Tue, 2 January 2018
The “ABCs” of a New Year Jeremiah 29:4-14
INTRODUCTION Many of us excel in thinking about the future and fail miserably in living for today. We’re quick to complain about our circumstances and slow to compassionately act to change our circumstances! As you begin 2018, what actions does God want you to take today, right where you are, that will lead you into His hopeful future?
CONTEXT God’s people were not “happy campers.” They were in exile. They had been uprooted from their home and taken 700 miles away to Babylon. The only thing that they wanted was out! That’s not the message that God gave to them from Jeremiah. His words to them are “on target” for you and me.
CONTENT
-Tendency to want the “easy way” out
- God’s “Waiting Room” Ps 27:14
-Don’t let what you can’t do, keep you from doing what you need to do!
III. CALL upon the Lord…seek the Lord v12-13 -Biblical “call” Gen.4:26, Ps.50:15, Jer 33:3
Questions to Ponder: Whose voice will direct you this year? What actions do you need to take now in order to follow God’s plan for your life in the future?
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