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Falling in Love with God - Bitterness
An emotional response (along with fear) that succeed at undermining our love for God
A result of an uncard-for emotional wound
Matthew 18:15-17 - can resolve most issues
Sometimes we are just called on to forgive
Not forgiving is like allowing a physical cut become infected
Examples
- Esau wept bitteryly when he failed to receive the blessing - Genesis 27:34
- Israelites incrediblity harsh and treatment from the Eyptians - Exodus 1:14
- Naomi changed her name to Mara, meaning "bitterness" (losted husband and sons) - Ruth 1:21
- Hannah wept "in bitterness of soul" because of her infertility - 1 Samuel 1:10
- David's men because of the loss of their children - 1 Samuel 30:6
- Job while not understanding the discipline of God - Job 7:11
- Missing the grace of God cause bitter root - Hebrews 12:15
- Envy becomes bitterness - James 3:14
Bitterness will actively oppose any attempt to restore our love for God
Bitter or better - a channel of curses or blessings
Disciples need Jesus' example to overcome the pain of the cross
Jesus wants us to have his attitude toward suffering
- What form do we expect our Christian suffering to take?
- Are we looking for a Christianity that does not involve suffering?
Bible command us to get rid of all bitterness
Two ways to overcome bittereness:
- Forgive - Ephesians 4:32
- Trusting God is at work in all things for our good - Romans 8:28
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Falling in Love with God - Holy Spirit with us What else should I be conscious of regarding the Holy Spirit:
- Spirit's circumcision of my heart - Romans 2:29
- God pours his love into my heart via the Spirit - Romans 5:1-5
- God's Spirit lives in me - 1 Corinthians 3:16
- Holy Spirit within me cries out to God - Galatians 4:6
- Credit for all wisdom and revelation goes to the Spirit - Ephesians 1:17
- He himself testifies to us that he lives within us - 1 John 4:23
Every spiritual thought we have is the result of the workings of God's Spirit within us
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Falling in Love with God - Discerning God's voice
| Thought |
Worst that
could happen
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Truth
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Scripture
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I'll never change
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I could try and fail
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God can do anything
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Ephesians 3:20
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I'm and idiot
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I could look foolish
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We all look stupid; It won't kill me
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Psalms 139:14
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How can I help anybody?
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Help but nothing changes
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God will work one way or another
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2 Corinthians 5:20
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I don't feel God is with me
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Go through a time feeling disconnected
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God promised he would never leave
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Matthew 28:20
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Why would allow this to happen?
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I have to experience pain from time to time
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God has a great plan for my life
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Romans 8:28
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You'll never amount to anything
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Your expectations don't become a reality
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God has a dream for you
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Jeremiah 29:11
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God's word contains God's voice
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Falling in Love with God - Practical Inspiration
Get Out of Here
Sometimes the first step in restoring our hearts is simply to get out of the house
Why go outside?
- Quiet - able to meditate
- Parents - able to get up before the kids do
- Nature is full of inpsiration
- Much more freedom outside
Turning back the clock
Rewrite the sins and people I sin against; what I was forgiven of (not an exercise in guilt but gratefulness
Secret Scriptural Weapon
You have to work at understanding the cross
Insights of yesterday about the cross need to be consistently refreshed
God never spoke louder than he did on Calvary
Memorizing scriptures and writing them on index cards
Ephesians 3:20 - When each word is accented, the scripture can have new meanings
Best for Last
Create a treasure chest:
- Baptism photos
- Special note from friends
- Wedding Vows
- Memorabilia from children being born
Scrapbook of the heart of God - testament to God
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Purpose Driven Life - It All Starts with God It's not about you
You were born by HIS purpose and for HIS purpose
Our search for purpose usually starts at the wrong place - ourselves
Self Help Books = Consider your dreams > Clarify your values > Set some goals
Being successful <> (not equal) Fulfilling your life's purpose
Easiest way to fine out the purpose of an invention is to ask its owner
Ephesians 1:11
- Discover your identity and purpose through Jesus
- God was thinking of you long before you ever thought about him
- Purpose of your life fits into a much larger purpose
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Purpose Driven Life - What Makes God Smile? (Part 1) "Noah was a pleasure to God" - Ephesians 5:10
Noah was an example of making God smile:
- When we love him supremely
- Noah did it when no one else did
- God wants a relationship with you - Hosea 6:6
- It is the greatest commandment
- When we trust him completely
- Problems that Noah could have had:
- Noah had never seen rain
- Lived hundreds of miles from the ocean
- Rounding up all the animals
- Many discouraging days around people
- Children were probably embarrassed
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Purpose Driven Life - A Place to Belong You are called to belong
Relationship with Christ is personal but not private
Your organs are connected to other organs to fulfill a purpose
Organ severed from the body will shrivel and die
Christ loved the church and gave his life for it - Ephesians 5:25
Church is Christ's bride
Can't say to Christ "I love you but I do not love your wife
Why you need a Church Family?
1. Identifies you as a genuine believer
2. Move you out of self-centered isolation
Lab for practicing unselfishness
Learn to care about others
If one part suffers, all suffer - 1 Corinthians 12:16
We ought to lay down our lives for our brothers - 1 John 3:16
3. Helps develop spiritual muscle
Isolation breeds deceitfulness
4. Body Needs you
5. Share in Christ's mission - He works through us
6. Church family will help you from backsliding
"Mind your own business" - not a Christian phrase
It is your responsibility to help those who need help
Difference between a church attender and a church member is commitment
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Purpose Driven Life - Protecting Your Church It is your job to protect the unity of the church
Supreme model for unity is the Trinity
Jesus' final moment was thinking and praying about the church's unity
Make every effort to keep the unity - Ephesians 4:3
Focus on what we have in common
We share the same life, salvation, and same future
Conflict - focused on "disputable matters"
Be realistic in your expectations
People become disillusioned with church
Should not be surprised - made up of sinners, including ourselves - 1 Corinthians 1:10
Reconciliation - not running away - road to stronger character and deeper fellowship
If the church must be perfect to satisfy you, that same perfection will exclude you
Choose to encourage rather than criticize
It is always easier to stand on the sidelines than get involved
Judge another believer:
- Lose fellowship with God
- Expose my pride and insecurity
- Set myself up to be judged by God
- Harm the fellowship
Satan is the accuser of our brothers
Other Christians are not the real enemy
Any time spent for comparing and criticizing should be used for building others up
Refuse to listen to gossip
People who gossip to you will also gossip about you
Great wounds usually come from other sheep, not wolves
Practice God's method for conflict resolution
Go to the person you are having issues with - Matthew 18
Takes a man of courage to speak the truth in love
Support your pastor and leaders - Hebrews 13:17
No perfect leaders
They are accountable but so are you
You will give an account on how you obeyed your leaders
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Purpose Driven Life - Created to Become Like Christ You are created to become like Christ
Jesus' mission is restore the full image that we have lost
God's ultimate goal for your life on earth in not comfort but character development
If we forget this, you will become frustrated by your circumstances
You exist for God's purpose, not vice versa
Only the Holy Spirit has the power to make the changes God wants to make in our lives - Philippians 2:13
We must cooperate with the Holy Spirit's work
Obedience unlocks God's power
God waits for you to act first
Make every effort - Luke 13:24; Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:3; 2 Timothy 2:15
Ephesians 4:22-24 - Responsibilities in belonging like Christ:
- Choose to let go of old ways
- Must change the way we think
- Must put on the "character of Christ by developing new, godly habits
God uses his Word, people, and circumstances to mold us
- Truth we need to grow
- Support when we need guidance or when we fail
- Environment we need to practice Christ-likeness
In many religions, the mature isolate themselves, not those who are being like Christ
Being like Christ is a long, slow process of growth - You are a work in progress
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Purpose Driven Life - Created to Become Like Christ You are created to become like Christ
Jesus' mission is restore the full image that we have lost
God's ultimate goal for your life on earth in not comfort but character development
If we forget this, you will become frustrated by your circumstances
You exist for God's purpose, not vice versa
Only the Holy Spirit has the power to make the changes God wants to make in our lives - Philippians 2:13
We must cooperate with the Holy Spirit's work
Obedience unlocks God's power
God waits for you to act first
Make every effort - Luke 13:24; Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:3; 2 Timothy 2:15
Ephesians 4:22-24 - Responsibilities in belonging like Christ:
- Choose to let go of old ways
- Must change the way we think
- Must put on the "character of Christ by developing new, godly habits
God uses his Word, people, and circumstances to mold us
- Truth we need to grow
- Support when we need guidance or when we fail
- Environment we need to practice Christ-likeness
In many religions, the mature isolate themselves, not those who are being like Christ
Being like Christ is a long, slow process of growth - You are a work in progress
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Purpose Driven Life - Created to Become Like Christ You are created to become like Christ
Jesus' mission is restore the full image that we have lost
God's ultimate goal for your life on earth in not comfort but character development
If we forget this, you will become frustrated by your circumstances
You exist for God's purpose, not vice versa
Only the Holy Spirit has the power to make the changes God wants to make in our lives - Philippians 2:13
We must cooperate with the Holy Spirit's work
Obedience unlocks God's power
God waits for you to act first
Make every effort - Luke 13:24; Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:3; 2 Timothy 2:15
Ephesians 4:22-24 - Responsibilities in belonging like Christ:
- Choose to let go of old ways
- Must change the way we think
- Must put on the "character of Christ by developing new, godly habits
God uses his Word, people, and circumstances to mold us
- Truth we need to grow
- Support when we need guidance or when we fail
- Environment we need to practice Christ-likeness
In many religions, the mature isolate themselves, not those who are being like Christ
Being like Christ is a long, slow process of growth - You are a work in progress
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Purpose Driven Life - How We Grow
God wants you to grow up - some grow older but never grow up (Ephesians 4:14-15)
Nothing shapes your life than the commitments you make
Many are afraid to commit to anything and drift through life
God's part and your part
Our part is to: Continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling - Philippians 2:12-13
Our role = "work out" salvation (grow - in a body workout we have our body but we make it better)
God's role = "work in" us
Changing your autopilot
Becareful what you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts - Proverbs 4:23
Changing what you think, changes you
Going on a diet, exercising does not work if you do not change your thinking - "I am going on a diet"
The way you think determines the way you feel - which influences how you act - Ephesians 4:23
Babies by nature are completely selfish
Many never grow beyond that kind of thinking
It is not the amount of biblical information and doctrine you know
Deeds must be constant with our creeds / Beliefs backed up with Christlike behavior
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Purpose Driven Life - Overcoming Temptation Refuse to be intimidated
You will never outgrow temptation
Temptation is a sign that Satan hates you
Paul says, "WHEN you are tempted..." - 1 Corinthians 10:13
Jesus was tempted, but never sinned - Hebrews 4:15
The closer you grown to God, the more Satan will try to tempt you
Recognize your pattern of temptation
Know what exactly what trips you up - Stay alert, Satan waits til you are napping - Matthew 26:41
- When am I most tempted?
- Where am I most tempted?
- Who is with me went I am tempted?
Don't give the Devil a chance - Ephesians 4:27
Plan carefully what you do... - Proverbs 4:26-27
Request God's Help
Call on God in times of trouble - Psalms 50:15
Jesus is sympathetic; he understands our weakness - Hebrews 4:15
We can be embarrassed to ask God for help after failing over and over again, but let us have confidence when approaching - Hebrews 4:16
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Purpose Driven Life - It Takes Time There are no shortcuts to maturity - it takes us years to mature physically
While we worry about fast we, God is concern how strong
We arrive to spiritual maturity when have gained the fullness of Christ - Ephesians 4:13
Why does it take so long to learn?
- We are slow learners - Israelites are a great example of this
- We have a lot to unlearn (bad habits) - Taking off the old self and putting on the new self - Romans 13:12
- We can not grow without a humble, teachable attitude
- Growth is often painful and scary
- There is no growth without change
- There is no change without fear or loss
- There is no loss without pain
- Must let go of old ways in order to experience the new way
- Habits take time to develop - Practice and devote yourself to growth - 1 Timothy 4:15
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Purpose Driven Life - Accepting Your Assignment You were put on earth to make a contribution
Not what we get out of life, it what you give
You were created to server God
God created us for a life of good deeds - Ephesians 2:10
Set apart for a special work - Jeremiah 1:5
You were saved to server God
Saved us and chose us for his holy work - 2 Timothy 1:9
We are not saved by service but you are saved for service
Offer yourself as living sacrifices to God - Romans 12:1
Our love for each other proves we have gone from death to life - 1 John 3:14
A saved heart is one that wants to server
He leaves us here to fulfill his purpose
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Purpose Driven Life - Shaped for Serving God Before God created you, he decided what role he wanted you to play on earth
You were made for a specific ministry.
Created in Christ to do good works - Ephesians 2:10
God does not make junk
God never wastes anything - he did not give you talents and gifts unless he intended for you to use them for his glory
God shapes us:
Spiritual Gifts
Heart
Abilities
Personality
Experience
We will look at spiritual gifts and heart today:
SHAPE: Spiritual Gifts
He alone decides which gift each person should have - 1 Corinthians 12:11
If you had them all, you would not need others; teaches us to love and depend on each other
Given gifts for the benefit of others
Gift given as a means of helping the entire church - 1 Corinthians 12:7
Two gift problems:
- Gift-envy - wanting a gift that someone else has
- Gift-projection - expect others to the same gifts as we do
SHAPE: Heart
Heart = desires, hopes, interest, ambition, dreams, and passion
Heart reflects the person - Proverbs 27:19
You may have interest that no one else has - from God
Don't ignore your interest; consider how they might be used by God
Serve the Lord with all of your heart - Deuteronomy 11:13
How do you know if you are serving the Lord with all of your heart?
- Enthusiasm - what you love to do; no one has to motivate
- Effectiveness - passion drives perfection
A simple life is better than a rich life with headaches - Proverbs 15:16
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Purpose Driven Life - Becoming a World-Class Christian (part 2) Shift from self-centered thinking to other-centered thinking
Stop thinking like children (thinking like only of self), and like like mature people (grown ups) - 1 Corinthians 14:20
Most advertising encourages selfish thinking
To make the paradigm switch to mature thinking - need to dependence of God
God has given us his Spirit so we don't think like the world thinks - 1 Corinthians 2:12
Shift from local thinking to global thinking
God so loved the world... - John 3:16
God made all the nations and where they would be, so we would look for him - Acts 17:26-27
The world already thinks globally: business, competition, and news
If you ask me, I will give you the nations - Psalms 2:8
What should we pray for?
- Opportunities to witness - Colossians 4:3
- Courage to speak up - Ephesians 6:19
- Rapid spread of the gospel - John 17:20
- More workers - 2 Thessalonians 3:1
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Purpose Driven Life - Lifes 5 Greatest Questions
- What will be the center of my life? - Center our lives should be God - 2 Chronicles 14:4
- What will be the character of my life? - Keep a firm grasp of your character; keep at it - 1 Timothy 4:16
- What will be the contribution of my life? - Meet the needs of God's people produces gratitude - 2 Corinthians 9:12
- What will be the communication of my life? - Bring honor to the good news - Philippians 1:27
- What will be the community of my life? - Christ loved the church and gave his life for it - Ephesians 5:25
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30 Days at the Cross - Unconditional Love
Feels good to feel loved - insecurities come from not being sure or for some reason other than unconditional love
In our worst shape, God demonstrated his love for us - Romans 5:8
Love that surpasses knowledge - Ephesians 3:19
The is not of higher value than unconditional love
Not a testimony to God's softness on sin
We will be changed if we understand God's love
Love you enough to have his son killed for you - while you (and me) were enemies of God
How much is his love toward you now that you his child?
Be imitators of God, as dearly loved children and live a life of love - Ephesians 5:1-2
If God loves us this much, we should as love this way - 1 John 4:11
Do you only love God when perform as you think he should? He doesn't!
Paul - Christ came to save sinners and I am the worst - 1 Timothy 1:15
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30 Days at the Cross - Unconditional Love
Feels good to feel loved - insecurities come from not being sure or for some reason other than unconditional love
In our worst shape, God demonstrated his love for us - Romans 5:8
Love that surpasses knowledge - Ephesians 3:19
The is not of higher value than unconditional love
Not a testimony to God's softness on sin
We will be changed if we understand God's love
Love you enough to have his son killed for you - while you (and me) were enemies of God
How much is his love toward you now that you his child?
Be imitators of God, as dearly loved children and live a life of love - Ephesians 5:1-2
If God loves us this much, we should as love this way - 1 John 4:11
Do you only love God when perform as you think he should? He doesn't!
Paul - Christ came to save sinners and I am the worst - 1 Timothy 1:15
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30 Days at the Cross - Unconditional Love
Feels good to feel loved - insecurities come from not being sure or for some reason other than unconditional love
In our worst shape, God demonstrated his love for us - Romans 5:8
Love that surpasses knowledge - Ephesians 3:19
The is not of higher value than unconditional love
Not a testimony to God's softness on sin
We will be changed if we understand God's love
Love you enough to have his son killed for you - while you (and me) were enemies of God
How much is his love toward you now that you his child?
Be imitators of God, as dearly loved children and live a life of love - Ephesians 5:1-2
If God loves us this much, we should as love this way - 1 John 4:11
Do you only love God when perform as you think he should? He doesn't!
Paul - Christ came to save sinners and I am the worst - 1 Timothy 1:15
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30 Days at the Cross - It Keeps on Cleansing
The blood of Jesus purifies us from all sin - 1 John 1:7
"Purifies" = present tense as in a da by day, constsant cleansing
His blood was the only thing that could possibly attain forgiveness for me - Ephesians 1:7
Blood make atonement for one's life
Imagine the priest persuading an Israelite to trust God's ways and offer the lamb
Do we have more faith in our weak, self-invented sacrifics than we do in God's plan fo grace?
Jesus' sacrifice for our sins must be accepted first for the joy of our sacrifical life to make sense
His blood is keeping us cured as we openly confess, repent, and appeal to God for our forgiveness - 1 John 8:2-6
Where does your value come from? As a blood-bought sinner or my ability to produce a perfect life
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30 Days at the Cross - United Hearts
Unity has an immense impact on our lives
Tower of Babel - God said nothing they planned would be impossible for them - Genesis 11:6
House divided against impossible for them - Mark 3:25
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit - Ephesians 4:3
What are the obstacles to unity?
- Misunderstanding and wrong assumptions (Israelite tribes) - Joshua 22
- Selfish ambition (James and John) - Matthew 20:20-28
- Inferiority and insecurity
- Jealousy and selfishness (brothers of Joesph) - Genesis 37
- Ingratitude and unforgiveness (older brother of the prodical son) - Luke 15
Sin is the ultimate cause of all disunity. Forgiveness is the ultimate cure.
It defies our nature
Reflects a surrender that trusts God's justice
Demonstrates a humility that cares less for one's own rights than for the good of others
Who do you need to totally forgive?
Forgiveness is the key to bing reunited
We need a daily "state of our unions"
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Teach Us To Pray - God Enjoys Talking to Us
To truely know him, we must absorb his Word
We must enjoy his talking to us
God's Word was written with one purpose in mind - to communicate God's love:
- He promised to carry our burdens - Matthew 11:28
- We will have all we need - 2 Corinthians 9:8
- He will give us more than we can ask or imagine - Ephesians 3:20
- He will meet all our our needs - Philippians 4:19
- All disciples have angels to server them - Hebrews 1:14
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Teach Us To Pray - In Marriage and Family
Unless the Lord builds, its builder labor in vain - Psalms 127:1-2
Solomon probably knew the truth of this passage as much as anyone
He saw incrediable tragedy in his own family from the result of his father's unspiritual leadership
His family stands as a warning to all married disciples of how Satan can destroy the most precious of all human relationships
Powerful benefits of daily prayer with one another:
- Prayer keeps your relationship spiritual focused
- Prayer keeps us going to bed united - Ephesians 4:26-27
- Prayer makes us more grateful
- Prayer gives us focus and direction
Prayer in family life:
- Nightly prayer with children from infancy
- Daily devotionals with younger school children - 15min in the morning
- Taking pray walks with teenage children
- Quiet Times with one another
- Praying as a family about major decisions and challenges
- Praying with children after they are disciplined adds powerfullly to the impact of such training
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Teach Us To Pray - In Marriage and Family
Unless the Lord builds, its builder labor in vain - Psalms 127:1-2
Solomon probably knew the truth of this passage as much as anyone
He saw incrediable tragedy in his own family from the result of his father's unspiritual leadership
His family stands as a warning to all married disciples of how Satan can destroy the most precious of all human relationships
Powerful benefits of daily prayer with one another:
- Prayer keeps your relationship spiritual focused
- Prayer keeps us going to bed united - Ephesians 4:26-27
- Prayer makes us more grateful
- Prayer gives us focus and direction
Prayer in family life:
- Nightly prayer with children from infancy
- Daily devotionals with younger school children - 15min in the morning
- Taking pray walks with teenage children
- Quiet Times with one another
- Praying as a family about major decisions and challenges
- Praying with children after they are disciplined adds powerfullly to the impact of such training
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Man of Prayer - YHWH-shalom Means "the Lord is peace"
Gideon had a powerful encounter with the angel of the Lord - Gave the name at the alter - Judges 6:24
Hebrew word shalom = welling being, contentment, harmony, fulfillment, and wholeness.
It communicates a total state of well-being which comes from a proper relationship with God
The blessing of God brings the peace of God
He is the source of your peace - Ephesians 2:14
Peace is the result of God's Spirit working in your life - Galatians 5:22
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Man of Prayer - Praying for our family
There is no greater privilege and responsibility than to pray for our spouse and children
It boggles the imagination to see how the quality of our family life can be affected by exercise this privilege
Powerful spiritual forces of evil try to undermine God's foundational institutions like the family
Bible clearly teaches that our struggle come from the spiritual forces outside conscious perception - Ephesians 6:12
Praying sometimes make things worst (at the beginning) because Satan is on the attack
Each of us need to realize that how we pray for our spouse is limited only by our creativity
If you want the kind of relationship that God intended you to have with your wife, prayer will be a major factor in seeing that desire realized
When we have been faithful in praying for my children, we have a great sense of peace about their lives
Christian dads have a tremendous privilege and a straggering responsibilty to pray their children
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Man of Prayer - Praying for the church body
Should pray for:
- maturity
- commitment
- spiritual health
- impact on our city
Pray for dreams for the church that will stretch our vision for the church and city
God can do more than we can imagine - Ephesians 3:20
How are you praying for your church? - Its your church
What do you want see God do? Where do you want to see His kingdom advance?
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Man of Prayer - Experiencing Forgiveness Being a Christian is a no-lose proposition
Athlete - performance dictated opportunity to participate
Student - achievement is based off of grades and advanced degrees
Every area in which we perform we are eventually bound to fail
We become a Christian on the basis of my failure and Jesus' performance
By grace we have been saved - Ephesians 2:8
Much more than just an initial experience of grace but a transformation of justification - we need daily bread (grace)
Jesus taught his disciples to confess their sins - Luke 11:4
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Man of Prayer - Developing Spiritual Protection World is filled with unknown and dangerous supernatural enemies - the battlefield is out there
Not against flesh and blood - but the spiritual forces of evil - Ephesians 6:12
We are part of a war of epic and eternal proportions that effect every area of our lives
Many men are casualties of a war they don't know is being waged
We are to prepared and equipped to wage this spiritual war
One of the seven major components of prayer is developing spiritual protection
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one - Matthew 6:13
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Man of Prayer - The Flesh (part 3)
Three other ways to fight the battle aginst our flesh (nature)
Resist temptation - 1 Peter 5:9
Turn and flee from temptation - 2 Timothy 2:22
Most effective - avoidance - Lead us not into temptation
He guides me in paths of righteousness for hos name's sake - Psalms 23:3
Prayer becomes our spiritual "dressing room" for the battle of the day - Ephesians 6:13-17
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Man of Prayer - The Flesh (part 3)
Three other ways to fight the battle aginst our flesh (nature)
Resist temptation - 1 Peter 5:9
Turn and flee from temptation - 2 Timothy 2:22
Most effective - avoidance - Lead us not into temptation
He guides me in paths of righteousness for hos name's sake - Psalms 23:3
Prayer becomes our spiritual "dressing room" for the battle of the day - Ephesians 6:13-17
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Man of Prayer - The Flesh (part 3)
Three other ways to fight the battle aginst our flesh (nature)
Resist temptation - 1 Peter 5:9
Turn and flee from temptation - 2 Timothy 2:22
Most effective - avoidance - Lead us not into temptation
He guides me in paths of righteousness for hos name's sake - Psalms 23:3
Prayer becomes our spiritual "dressing room" for the battle of the day - Ephesians 6:13-17
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Man of Prayer - The Flesh (part 3)
Three other ways to fight the battle aginst our flesh (nature)
Resist temptation - 1 Peter 5:9
Turn and flee from temptation - 2 Timothy 2:22
Most effective - avoidance - Lead us not into temptation
He guides me in paths of righteousness for hos name's sake - Psalms 23:3
Prayer becomes our spiritual "dressing room" for the battle of the day - Ephesians 6:13-17
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Man of Prayer - The Flesh (part 3)
Three other ways to fight the battle aginst our flesh (nature)
Resist temptation - 1 Peter 5:9
Turn and flee from temptation - 2 Timothy 2:22
Most effective - avoidance - Lead us not into temptation
He guides me in paths of righteousness for hos name's sake - Psalms 23:3
Prayer becomes our spiritual "dressing room" for the battle of the day - Ephesians 6:13-17
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Man of Prayer - Miracle List
It is helpful to keep a separate list of needs for times of pure intercession:
- Ministry
- Neighbors
- Family
- Special Needs
Also good to have a "miracle list"
God can do anything - nothing is impossible - Luke 1:37
During difficult times, God extended a seeming impossible invitation:
Jerusalem was under attack from the Babylonians and the city was destroyed
Call to me and I will answer with great and unsearchable things - Jeremiah 33:3
God promised healing, forgiveness, and cleansing to Israel - Jeremiah 33:6-9
He can do immeasurably more than what we can ask - Ephesians 3:20
We know God can do anything; we just don't know if he will do them
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Raising Awesome Kids - Husband and Father Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her - Ephesians 5:25-6:4
Our relationship with our father is, in many ways, the defining relationship in all of our lives
Our response to authority and our self-confidence comes from our father
Responsibility of training children squarely upon the father
Fathers...bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord - Ephesians 6:4
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Raising Awesome Kids - Father as Leader Husband is the head - Ephesians 5:23
You, as the father, are in charge - it is wrong not to lead
Men and women are equal but have different roles
Christ is head of the husband who is head of his wife - 1 Corinthians 11:3
We hurt ourselves and those close to us when we ignore or distort God's plan
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Raising Awesome Kids - Training and Teaching Fathers, bring up your children up in the training and instruction of the Lord - Ephesians 6:4
We, as fathers, teach and train non-stop
Do not underestimate the importance of teaching
The worst mistake you can make is to do nothing
Children love to learn
Why else would God let us keep them for almost 20 years, but to train them
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Raising Awesome Kids - Respect (part 1)
Honor you father and mother so it may go well with you - Ephesians 6:2-3
The issue of respecting authority is critical - opposite is arrogant, haughty, cocky attitudes
If not addressed - will lose our children to the world
How can we tell if our chidlren are disrepectful?
- Sassy talk
- Defiant looks
- Temper tantrums
- Stomping feet
- Them hitting you
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Raising Awesome Kids - Respect (part 1)
Honor you father and mother so it may go well with you - Ephesians 6:2-3
The issue of respecting authority is critical - opposite is arrogant, haughty, cocky attitudes
If not addressed - will lose our children to the world
How can we tell if our chidlren are disrepectful?
- Sassy talk
- Defiant looks
- Temper tantrums
- Stomping feet
- Them hitting you
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Raising Awesome Kids - Winning Obedience from Children (part 2)
First principle = first time obedience
Second principle = Parents never lose
They want to see their limits
Apologize when warrented but never give up in the battle of wills
Sometimes the whole issues comes down to the "mother of all battles"
Compromise is one the most devastating mistakes parent can make
When we do this, we sow the seeds of rebellion - Ephesians 6:4
If you have failed in this area:
- Read about passages about obeying
- Talk to them about obeying the first time
- Explain this has not been the way but will be now
- Pray together
- From that time on be different
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Raising Awesome Kids - Repect: Eliminate Critical, Harsh Talk Reckless words pierce like a sword - Proverbs 12:18
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor - Proverbs 11:12
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your months - Ephesians 4:29-32
So thing we just plain need to get rid of:
Harsh words
Men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken - Matthew 12:36-37
Name calling
Would you use the same words if Jesus was in the room? Let that be the test.
Rudeness
Love is not rude - 1 Corinthians 13:5
Get rid of all actions, looks, and expression related
God hate haughty eyes - Proverbs 6:16-17
These are signs of disrespect
Recognize > Confront > Eliminate from their behavior
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Raising Awesome Kids - Repect: Eliminate Critical, Harsh Talk Reckless words pierce like a sword - Proverbs 12:18
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor - Proverbs 11:12
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your months - Ephesians 4:29-32
So thing we just plain need to get rid of:
Harsh words
Men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken - Matthew 12:36-37
Name calling
Would you use the same words if Jesus was in the room? Let that be the test.
Rudeness
Love is not rude - 1 Corinthians 13:5
Get rid of all actions, looks, and expression related
God hate haughty eyes - Proverbs 6:16-17
These are signs of disrespect
Recognize > Confront > Eliminate from their behavior
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Raising Awesome Kids - Repect: Eliminate Critical, Harsh Talk Reckless words pierce like a sword - Proverbs 12:18
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor - Proverbs 11:12
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your months - Ephesians 4:29-32
So thing we just plain need to get rid of:
Harsh words
Men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken - Matthew 12:36-37
Name calling
Would you use the same words if Jesus was in the room? Let that be the test.
Rudeness
Love is not rude - 1 Corinthians 13:5
Get rid of all actions, looks, and expression related
God hate haughty eyes - Proverbs 6:16-17
These are signs of disrespect
Recognize > Confront > Eliminate from their behavior
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Raising Awesome Kids - Repect: Eliminate Critical, Harsh Talk Reckless words pierce like a sword - Proverbs 12:18
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor - Proverbs 11:12
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your months - Ephesians 4:29-32
So thing we just plain need to get rid of:
Harsh words
Men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken - Matthew 12:36-37
Name calling
Would you use the same words if Jesus was in the room? Let that be the test.
Rudeness
Love is not rude - 1 Corinthians 13:5
Get rid of all actions, looks, and expression related
God hate haughty eyes - Proverbs 6:16-17
These are signs of disrespect
Recognize > Confront > Eliminate from their behavior
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Raising Awesome Kids - Openness
Instead, speak the truth in love - Ephesians 4:15
An open family is a close family
No simmering backlog of unresolved problems - children should free to speak their minds at any time
Children should believe that we care enough to give them our full attention; will not fly off the handle
This establishes an open door policy with them
Openness is not limited to parents and children - includes the children with one another
Never allow conflict between kids to go unsettled
Send them off to talk about it - Mediate if needed
King Saul - filled with jealousy and envy and held in his feelings
His patteren was to think one thing and say something else - 1 Samuel 18
Resulting in complete emotional and spiritual breakdown
Parent should be concerned for a child that holds everything in
Have open talks during your family devotional times
Establish an atmosphere of freedom and openness
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Jesus with People - Feeling the Pain
Luke 7:11-17 - He said, "Don't cry", Jesus chose to be vulnerable to everyone's pain:
- His heart ached for a woman whom he had never meet
- Immediately felt her pain
- Was not oblivious to other's pain
- He gave her reason to rejoice - through his death
Jesus compassion knows no bounds
How wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ - Ephesians 3:18
Are you praying to stretch the capacity of your heart to feel deeply with many others?
Is your lack of openness (rooted in fear of the sin of pride) blocking your passion and compassion?
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Promises of God - Forgiving Others
By the time we are old enough to understand, we have hurt and been hurt so many times - we need forgiveness and so do others
We can become resentful and bitter - only way out the vicious cycle is to learn how to forgive
The definition of a dysfunctional relationship: the inability to solve conflict and forgive
Hugh obstacle: We can not truely forgive until we have experienced forgiveness
Once we are forgiven by God can we forgive as God does
Once we are forgiven, we are obligated to forgive others - Matthew 18
Forgving others as in Christ God forgave you - Ephesians 4:32
Our sins against each other pale in comparison to our sins against God
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need God - He is Our Provider GOD AS OUR PROVIDER...
- Has promised to meet our physical needs - Matthew 6:25-32
- If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives - Matthew 6:33-34
- Has promised to meet our spiritual needs - Phillipians 2:12-13
- If we will put on His armor - Ephesians 6:11-18
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Why We Need Jesus - He Reconciles Us to God HE RECONCILES US TO GOD...
- There is but one mediator between God and man - 1 Timothy 2:5
- God sent Christ to reconcile sinful man back to Him - 2 Corinthians 5:18-20
- This God did this by offering Christ as the sacrifice for our sins - 1 John 4:9-10
- We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins - Ephesians 1:7
- Jesus is the only way to God - John 14:6
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Why We Need Jesus - He Offers Us a Better Life WHO OFFERS US A BETTER LIFE...
- A more abundant life - John 10:10
- Peace that surpasses understanding - John 14:27; 16:23; Phillipians 4:6-7
- Love that passes knowledge - John 15:9; Ephesians 3:19
- Joy that is inexpressible - John 15:11; 1 Peter 1:8
- Hope that sustains in the face of death - John 11:25; Revelation 14:13
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One Another - Making it Clear
| 1 Corinthians 1-3 |
2 Corinthians 1 |
| The world's wisdom |
The world's wisdom |
| God's grace |
God's grace |
Relationships that are conducted according to the world's wisdom - have some element of self in mind
Relationships in God's grace have in mind: God's grace to us and our need to pass grace on to others
World teaches to be independent / We belong to one another - Romans 12:5
- One on who be independent choose not to / he emptied himself and became a slave - Philippians 2
- We are do be devoted to one another - philostorgos = like family - Romans 12:10
When we see the grace of God, we see one:
- who brings into his circle of friends - John 15:13-15
- who adopts us into his family - Hebrews 2:11
- who vows he will never leave or forsake us - Hebrews 13:5
We are to admonish one another and speak the truth in love - Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 4:15
If living with worldly wisdom then we will:
- Ignore the problem
- Gossip about it to other
- Blast a person with the truth
None of these actions show grace
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One Another - Speaking the Truth in Love Speaking the truth in love - Ephesians 4:15
Really what admonishing and good couching is
Not speaking harshly or with anything other than their good in mind
Example of any area of life to talk about:
- Brother not engaging in fellowship
- Someone being insensitive or self-focused
- Sister seem dominated by negative and critical attitudes
- Someone overindulges in food or drink or something else
- Someone too serious and unrelatable
You may or may not be the best person to help them
Input not to stand in judgment but help one another to be transformed
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Kingdom First - Rapid Resolution Reconcile your difference with your brother before offering a gift to God - Matthew 5:21-25
Similar to a verse in the OT - Leviticus 19:16-18
Jesus is basically telling us that we are responsible to be righteous in every relationship
Whether or not it is our problem - we are responsible
- To seek the person out
- Speak frankly
- Make every effort to build unity - Ephesians 4:3
Failing to resolve things can erode our relationship with God
Hatred is like murder - rejoices in the downfall of person you have a problem with
Take the initiative; love speaks the truth
Remember that relationship with others mirrors our true relationship with God
We'll never be close to God if we're afraid to speak the truth to our fellowman
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Kingdom First - Helping Others to Make Peace Highest calling as peacemakers is to help other make peace with God
We have been fitted with the feet of readiness that comes from the gospel of peace - Ephesians 6:15
Are proclaim peace to others - Isaiah 52:7
Jesus shed his blood so we could have peace
He calls to die to ourselves so others can be made right with God
Not superficial "world peace" but true peace in the heart of each man and women
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Kingdom First - Personal Responsibility (part 1) Things have not changed much since the begging of time
The woman you put here gave me some fruit - Genesis 3:12
We crave a scape goat:
- Children blame parents
- Spouses blame each other
- Employees blame employers
- Society blame political administration
- Present political administration blame previous one
Jesus calls us to personal responsibility - Matthew 7:1-5
Must confront the planks in our own lives
Instead should admonish one another - Colossians 1:28-29
Build each other up through contructive challenges - Ephesians 4:29
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One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 1) Bible is clear - Jesus came to break down divisions - Ephesians 2:14
Worldly divisions
- Race
- Money
- Gender
- Culture
- Distance
- Too busy
Common barriers in the church:
- Past hurts
- Bitterness
- Sin - yours, mine or others
Jesus broke down walls through the cross - Ephesians 2:16
Can ONLY be done at the foot of the cross
Only way a holy and righteous God can be reunited with his unrighteous enemy (us) - Romans 5:6-11
Reconcile = to become friends again
Not to politely tolerate one another or a ceasefire
The goal of Jesus is to be one - John 17:20-21
Only way Jews and non-Jews could form the church of God
What Paul had is mind when writing - Ephesians 3:20
"...him who by the power that is working within us is able to do far beyond all that we ask or think"
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One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 1) Bible is clear - Jesus came to break down divisions - Ephesians 2:14
Worldly divisions
- Race
- Money
- Gender
- Culture
- Distance
- Too busy
Common barriers in the church:
- Past hurts
- Bitterness
- Sin - yours, mine or others
Jesus broke down walls through the cross - Ephesians 2:16
Can ONLY be done at the foot of the cross
Only way a holy and righteous God can be reunited with his unrighteous enemy (us) - Romans 5:6-11
Reconcile = to become friends again
Not to politely tolerate one another or a ceasefire
The goal of Jesus is to be one - John 17:20-21
Only way Jews and non-Jews could form the church of God
What Paul had is mind when writing - Ephesians 3:20
"...him who by the power that is working within us is able to do far beyond all that we ask or think"
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One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 1) Bible is clear - Jesus came to break down divisions - Ephesians 2:14
Worldly divisions
- Race
- Money
- Gender
- Culture
- Distance
- Too busy
Common barriers in the church:
- Past hurts
- Bitterness
- Sin - yours, mine or others
Jesus broke down walls through the cross - Ephesians 2:16
Can ONLY be done at the foot of the cross
Only way a holy and righteous God can be reunited with his unrighteous enemy (us) - Romans 5:6-11
Reconcile = to become friends again
Not to politely tolerate one another or a ceasefire
The goal of Jesus is to be one - John 17:20-21
Only way Jews and non-Jews could form the church of God
What Paul had is mind when writing - Ephesians 3:20
"...him who by the power that is working within us is able to do far beyond all that we ask or think"
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One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 2)
Biblical Principles of Reconcilation:
- Realize the urgency and importance of being reconciled - Matthew 5:23-24
- God would rather you patch up things with your brother than worship him
- Have you called someone on a Saturday night to talk so you can worship God acceptably the next day?
- Accept the obligation and possibility of reconciliation
- Know that we cannot always have our way
- Reconciliation does not mean that everone will agree; power of the gospel is diversity working together in harmony
- Make every effort to work things out - Ephesians 4:3
- Forgive as the Lord forgave you - Colossians 3:13
- Pray for your enemies (against human nature - Matthew 5:44
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One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)
Some things that depend on us
We can always have a gracious attitude
Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19
We can always be humble
Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2
We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15
We can always listen - James 1:19-20
We can always control our anger - James 1:20
Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship
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One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)
Some things that depend on us
We can always have a gracious attitude
Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19
We can always be humble
Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2
We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15
We can always listen - James 1:19-20
We can always control our anger - James 1:20
Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship
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One Another - Forgiving One Another (part 2) Other matters related to forgiveness:
Forgiveness is the ultimate 'one another' trump card
Love, which always forgives, can cover a multitude of sins - 1 Peter 4:8
Forgiveness must come from a grateful heart
If forgiveness comes from anything other than a grateful heart, we lack the purity of heart
Rid yourself of all bitterness, rage, and anger - forgiving each other as Christ forgave you - Ephesians 4:31-32
We must help one another forgive
When a person is not forgiving, they grow bitter
The sin of lack of forgiveness of someone may be greater than the actual offense
See that no one misses the grace of God and no bitter root grows - Hebrews 12:14-15
Pain and anger are not resolved in a moment, but let us never doubt where we must end up
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One Another - Forgiving One Another (part 2) Other matters related to forgiveness:
Forgiveness is the ultimate 'one another' trump card
Love, which always forgives, can cover a multitude of sins - 1 Peter 4:8
Forgiveness must come from a grateful heart
If forgiveness comes from anything other than a grateful heart, we lack the purity of heart
Rid yourself of all bitterness, rage, and anger - forgiving each other as Christ forgave you - Ephesians 4:31-32
We must help one another forgive
When a person is not forgiving, they grow bitter
The sin of lack of forgiveness of someone may be greater than the actual offense
See that no one misses the grace of God and no bitter root grows - Hebrews 12:14-15
Pain and anger are not resolved in a moment, but let us never doubt where we must end up
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One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
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One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
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One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
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One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
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One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
|
One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
|
One Another - One Another In Groups (part 3) Work out differences; maintain unity - Ephesians 4:1-7
Do not be surprised when there are differences
See differences as:
- Opportunity for the spirit to work
- Opportunity for iron to sharpen iron
- Opportunity for us to go to the cross and practice humility
Be sensitive to outsiders; seek to bring them in - Colossians 4:2-6
Need to make the most of every opportunity
Avoid lingo and behavior that make the visitor truly feel like an outsider
Stay at the foot of the cross
What makes a Christian group different from others is the cross
Where is your group in regard to the cross?
Are we dying and living a baptized life?
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Life to the Full - In His Steps (part 2)
Disciples are priests and ministers in function - using the righteousness of Jesus - 1 Peter 2:4-6
Preist, by definition, is holier than the common man
The clergy-laity system is flawed because of there reasons:
- It is elitiest
- Fosters a double-standard
- It is unbiblical
Consider today's denominational titles:
- Father - Jesus said to avoid this title - Matthew 23:9
- Pope - means father; Peter was suppose to the first one but he never claimed that he was
- Paster - Latin for shepard; refered only in - Ephesians 4:11
- Bishop - Greek for overseer
- Priest - corruption of the Greek presbyteros, meaning elder
- Female pasters - Roundly rejected by the NT; See 1 Timothy 3 and 1 Corinthians 14
- Monks and Nuns - created in the 2nd and 3rd centuries; Jesus said we are in the world but not of the world
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Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)
Preached by Maurice Hooks
John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?
Romans 13:8 - Being a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people
Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7
Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31
Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30
Challenges for the week:
- Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
- Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
- Help someone not close to you feel special
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Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)
Preached by Maurice Hooks
John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?
Romans 13:8 - Being a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people
Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7
Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31
Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30
Challenges for the week:
- Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
- Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
- Help someone not close to you feel special
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Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)
Preached by Maurice Hooks
John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?
Romans 13:8 - Being a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people
Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7
Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31
Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30
Challenges for the week:
- Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
- Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
- Help someone not close to you feel special
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Heart of Friendship (part 2)
Friendship in Christ
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are all in Christ
- There is no different: race, martial status, money you make, area you live in
Friendship like Christ
John 13:34-35 - You must love one another like Christ (even when you do not want to)
Matthew 26:50 - First word Jesus said to Judas as he was betraying him was "Friend, ..."
Revelation 3:19 - Jesus corrected those he loved (We must correct those we love)
Friendship for Christ
Ephesians 5:21
- Our motivation for submitting to each other - reverence for Christ
- How can we tolerate others? our reverence for Christ
Friendship through Christ
Philippians 4:13 - We can do anything with our friend, Jesus Christ
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Desire's Journey - Taking Up the Quest The only fatal error is to pretend that we have found the life we prize
The Shawshank Redemption
At first, these walls, you hate them. They make you crazy. After a while you get used to them, don't notice them anymore. Then comes the day you realize you need them.
Most tragic day of all - to prefer slavery to freedom, to prefer death to life
Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead - Ephesians 5:14
Bringing our heart among in our life's journey - the most important mission of our lives
To desire something and not to have it - is not this the source of nearly all our pain and sorrow?
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I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
I need to pray (part 1)
Preached on 2002-08-25 by Vince Hawkins
Ephesians 3:14-21
- I kneel before the Father - come to God humble
- Strength comes from how deep, wide, long of Christ's love
- Prayer can do anything God can do
God overwhelms the mind
Genesis 41:40 - overwhelmed Joseph with the position that was given to him
1 Kings 10:7-8 - Sheba was overwhelmed by Solomon's wealth and wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:9 - He will overwhelm you by his love
Ephesians 3:20 - more than we can ask or image
- Think about how God meet everyone of your needs
- Think about how God go beyond everyone of your needs
- Think about how God can bless you beyond what we can think of
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Jesus - The Healer (part 2)
Causes of Sickness:
Break Down of System
Our spiritual immune system can break down:
- Time with God isn't exciting...less time spent
- Dynamic prayer becomes nonexistant
- Desire to go to Church decreases
- Becomes critical toward the church, people, even God
James 1:13-15
- I didn't become a disciple to be here and then fall away
- Sin gives birth to death...maybe slow maybe fast.
Some are accidential injuries
You must be prepared:
1 Peter 4:1-11
- Because we are not prepared
- Wolves are all around us.
Some are self-afflicted injuries
Ephesians 5:10-18
- Comes when we make excuses.
- Like shotting ourselves in the foot.
Jesus can heal your weaknesses and injuries
Will you let him?
|
Our worst, His best
Preached on 2003-03-16
Bad day? Being at your worse, need someone at their best
What is your reaction to these people?
Romans 5:6-8
Ephesians 2:1-5
God was at His best
John 13:1-38- Apostles betraying
Matthew 26:36-46- Apostles sleeping
Luke 22:47-53 - His own turned against him
Mark 14:53-65 - False witnesses, no answer
Luke 22:54-62 - Peter not standing up for Jesus
Luke 23:26-43 - Killing him, our savation
1 Peter 2:18-25 - Are you have been hurt more than Jesus?
|
Our worst, His best
Preached on 2003-03-16
Bad day? Being at your worse, need someone at their best
What is your reaction to these people?
Romans 5:6-8
Ephesians 2:1-5
God was at His best
John 13:1-38- Apostles betraying
Matthew 26:36-46- Apostles sleeping
Luke 22:47-53 - His own turned against him
Mark 14:53-65 - False witnesses, no answer
Luke 22:54-62 - Peter not standing up for Jesus
Luke 23:26-43 - Killing him, our savation
1 Peter 2:18-25 - Are you have been hurt more than Jesus?
|
Our worst, His best
Preached on 2003-03-16
Bad day? Being at your worse, need someone at their best
What is your reaction to these people?
Romans 5:6-8
Ephesians 2:1-5
God was at His best
John 13:1-38- Apostles betraying
Matthew 26:36-46- Apostles sleeping
Luke 22:47-53 - His own turned against him
Mark 14:53-65 - False witnesses, no answer
Luke 22:54-62 - Peter not standing up for Jesus
Luke 23:26-43 - Killing him, our savation
1 Peter 2:18-25 - Are you have been hurt more than Jesus?
|
Our worst, His best
Preached on 2003-03-16
Bad day? Being at your worse, need someone at their best
What is your reaction to these people?
Romans 5:6-8
Ephesians 2:1-5
God was at His best
John 13:1-38- Apostles betraying
Matthew 26:36-46- Apostles sleeping
Luke 22:47-53 - His own turned against him
Mark 14:53-65 - False witnesses, no answer
Luke 22:54-62 - Peter not standing up for Jesus
Luke 23:26-43 - Killing him, our savation
1 Peter 2:18-25 - Are you have been hurt more than Jesus?
|
Our worst, His best
Preached on 2003-03-16
Bad day? Being at your worse, need someone at their best
What is your reaction to these people?
Romans 5:6-8
Ephesians 2:1-5
God was at His best
John 13:1-38- Apostles betraying
Matthew 26:36-46- Apostles sleeping
Luke 22:47-53 - His own turned against him
Mark 14:53-65 - False witnesses, no answer
Luke 22:54-62 - Peter not standing up for Jesus
Luke 23:26-43 - Killing him, our savation
1 Peter 2:18-25 - Are you have been hurt more than Jesus?
|
Desire's Journey - The Grand Affair (part 1)
To know and to be known. It is our deepest ache.
Our bodies are an outward sign of an inward reality
Love makes us to crazy things for love. No union on earth like the consummation of love between a man and woman
Lovers reach for the stars to find words fitting enough to express what the beloved means to them - to a clue to a deeper reality
Becoming one - this is what God is seeking with us
Gender, sexually and marriage server as a lving metaphor
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother ... and the two will become one flesh... I am talking about Christ and the church - Ephesians 5:31-32
The cross is a great mystery - but in context of sacrifing animal - it became clear what they had been doing and what Christ was doing
Bible is the greatest romance ever written
God has given us the highest freedom of all - the freedom to reject him
Love is possible only when it is freely chosen
|
Desire's Journey - The Grand Affair (part 1)
To know and to be known. It is our deepest ache.
Our bodies are an outward sign of an inward reality
Love makes us to crazy things for love. No union on earth like the consummation of love between a man and woman
Lovers reach for the stars to find words fitting enough to express what the beloved means to them - to a clue to a deeper reality
Becoming one - this is what God is seeking with us
Gender, sexually and marriage server as a lving metaphor
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother ... and the two will become one flesh... I am talking about Christ and the church - Ephesians 5:31-32
The cross is a great mystery - but in context of sacrifing animal - it became clear what they had been doing and what Christ was doing
Bible is the greatest romance ever written
God has given us the highest freedom of all - the freedom to reject him
Love is possible only when it is freely chosen
|
Desire's Journey - Deeper Desire (part 8) Losing all sensitivity - the dullness that most people accept as normal - Ephesians 4:17-19
A deadened soul requires a greater and greater level of stimulation to arouse it
This is known as the downward spiral of any addiction
TV today would be consider shocking thirty years ago
This is why holiness is not numbness - it is sensitivity
God wants to be our perfect lover but instead we seek perfection in human relationships and are disappointed when our lovers cannot love us perfectly
The Law (Music sheet, if you will) is our help for guiding us
Our instrument is out of tune from years of misuse
We're not clear all the time on what it is we really want
|
Desire's Journey - Deeper Desire (part 8) Losing all sensitivity - the dullness that most people accept as normal - Ephesians 4:17-19
A deadened soul requires a greater and greater level of stimulation to arouse it
This is known as the downward spiral of any addiction
TV today would be consider shocking thirty years ago
This is why holiness is not numbness - it is sensitivity
God wants to be our perfect lover but instead we seek perfection in human relationships and are disappointed when our lovers cannot love us perfectly
The Law (Music sheet, if you will) is our help for guiding us
Our instrument is out of tune from years of misuse
We're not clear all the time on what it is we really want
|
Desire's Journey - Deeper Desire (part 8) Losing all sensitivity - the dullness that most people accept as normal - Ephesians 4:17-19
A deadened soul requires a greater and greater level of stimulation to arouse it
This is known as the downward spiral of any addiction
TV today would be consider shocking thirty years ago
This is why holiness is not numbness - it is sensitivity
God wants to be our perfect lover but instead we seek perfection in human relationships and are disappointed when our lovers cannot love us perfectly
The Law (Music sheet, if you will) is our help for guiding us
Our instrument is out of tune from years of misuse
We're not clear all the time on what it is we really want
|
Waking Dead - At War (part 2)
The theme of does not end with the Old Testament
I have come to bring peace but the sword - Matthew 10:34
The birth of Christ was an act of war
The enemy knew it and tried to kill him - Matthew 2:13
The whole life of Christ is marked by battle and confrontation
- Kick out demons with a stern command
- Rebukes fever and it leaves
- Rebukes a storm and it resides
- Confronts the Pharisees numberous times
- He wakes Lazarus from the dead
- Decends into hell and leads a train of captives free - Ephesians 4:8-9
Not just a theme of the Bible but the backdrop for the whole story
What is he fighting for? Our freedom and restoration
The glory of God is man fully alive
|
Waking Dead - At War (part 2)
The theme of does not end with the Old Testament
I have come to bring peace but the sword - Matthew 10:34
The birth of Christ was an act of war
The enemy knew it and tried to kill him - Matthew 2:13
The whole life of Christ is marked by battle and confrontation
- Kick out demons with a stern command
- Rebukes fever and it leaves
- Rebukes a storm and it resides
- Confronts the Pharisees numberous times
- He wakes Lazarus from the dead
- Decends into hell and leads a train of captives free - Ephesians 4:8-9
Not just a theme of the Bible but the backdrop for the whole story
What is he fighting for? Our freedom and restoration
The glory of God is man fully alive
|
Waking Dead - The Heart's Eyes
Do not lose heart, fix our eyes on what is unseen - 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
We are losing heart, all of us, daily
Someone was trying to shutdown Paul during his ministry - 2 Corinthians 11:23-27
He was looking at what he could not see
Life is an illustion - there is a way of looking at life and be able to live from the heart no matter what
How? By seeing with the eyes of the heart - Ephesians 1:18
Jesus spoke in parables to our hearts:
- A sower went out to sow some seed
- A man fell into the hands of robbers
- Suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one
- There were ten virgins with ten lamps
Jesus spoke in a way that will get past all intellectual defenses
Civil War: Fought between 1861 to 1865 vs stories of the lives lost during that time
When you tell a story, you speak to the heart
|
Waking Dead - Point of all Living Everything you love is what makes a life worth living
Action: Set down the book and make a list of all the things you love
- People in your life
- Things that bring you joy
- Places that are dear to you
A life filled with loving is a life most like the one that God live - Ephesians 5:1-2
Jesus was asked what was most important
He boiled it down to loving God and loving others - everything else will fall into place
The heart is the connecting point; can not love without it
If we can truly love, be loved, and never lose love - we would be finally truly happy
If we worship efficiency, we can not grow in our love
Some try to master all sort of principles and and never know God intimately, heart to heart.
If do all sorts of Christian things without knowing God, he will say "I never knew you" - Matthew 7:22-23
The point is not the activity but intimacy with God
Taking a course on anatomy won't help you love you spouse
Taking a religion class will not help you love God
You will find God when you seek him with all of your heart - Jeremiah 29:13
|
Waking Dead - Point of all Living Everything you love is what makes a life worth living
Action: Set down the book and make a list of all the things you love
- People in your life
- Things that bring you joy
- Places that are dear to you
A life filled with loving is a life most like the one that God live - Ephesians 5:1-2
Jesus was asked what was most important
He boiled it down to loving God and loving others - everything else will fall into place
The heart is the connecting point; can not love without it
If we can truly love, be loved, and never lose love - we would be finally truly happy
If we worship efficiency, we can not grow in our love
Some try to master all sort of principles and and never know God intimately, heart to heart.
If do all sorts of Christian things without knowing God, he will say "I never knew you" - Matthew 7:22-23
The point is not the activity but intimacy with God
Taking a course on anatomy won't help you love you spouse
Taking a religion class will not help you love God
You will find God when you seek him with all of your heart - Jeremiah 29:13
|
Waking Dead - Life to the Full Christ died for us but he also raised for us
His resurrection was as much for us as his death was
Count yourself dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus - Romans 6:11
God made us alive with Christ - Ephesians 2:5
We received our sinful nature from Adam - now we receive a good and holy nature from Christ
God plan is not to just forgive you but restore you
Make a good tree and its fruit will be good - Matthew 12:33
The covenant has two parts: I will give you a new heart and spirit, remove the heart of stone and flesh - Ezekiel 36:26
I have come that they may have life and it to the full - John 10:10
|
Waking Dead - Spiritual Warfare (part 4) Heads up. Satan can give us actions and words to say:
- Satan incited David to take a census of Israel - 1 Chronicles 21:1
- To Peter: "Get behind me Satan" - Matthew 16:21-23
Some trying to "work through" things are simply have agreements with the Enemy
Do you really think the source of that is just you? or God?
Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry - Ephesians 4:26-27
Not just anger - it happens through all sorts of issues
Satan uses your wounds and unresolved emotional issues to pin your heart down under a spiritual stronghold
Wounds we take are not accidential
We must be careful not to make agreements with Satan to increase his dominion
|
Waking Dead - Spiritual Warfare (part 4) Heads up. Satan can give us actions and words to say:
- Satan incited David to take a census of Israel - 1 Chronicles 21:1
- To Peter: "Get behind me Satan" - Matthew 16:21-23
Some trying to "work through" things are simply have agreements with the Enemy
Do you really think the source of that is just you? or God?
Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry - Ephesians 4:26-27
Not just anger - it happens through all sorts of issues
Satan uses your wounds and unresolved emotional issues to pin your heart down under a spiritual stronghold
Wounds we take are not accidential
We must be careful not to make agreements with Satan to increase his dominion
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
You are what you eat Preached by Curt Simmons on 2002-08-18
Ephesians 1:11-14
- We eat to get energy
- We need to eat to healthy spiritually too
- What are we feeding the spirit?
- What is your spiritual diet?
- Are you eating junk food?
- Do not forget the Holy Spirit! - get to know him better
- We will die if we continue to gratify the sinful nature
Ephesians 3:14-19
- We desire to be filled
- Fullness = satisfied (not looks for more)
Ephesians 4:11-13
- Leaders help us
- Let other into your life
Ephesians 4:17-29
- All these sins are poisonous to our health
- Put on new self - start a new diet
General healthy spiritual food items
- Obedience
- Prayer
- Bible Study
- Singing
- Encouraging Others
- Serving
- Contribution
- Graduated
- Fasting
- Confessing Sin
- Discipling
Where are you at?
- Weak - poison = no, good food = no, eats little
- Sick - poison = some, worldly, impure
- Dying - not eating much, lots of poison
- Strong - lots of food, consistent, wide variety
Practicals
- Scheduled meals
- Decide what meals should go
- Decide what to start eating
|
Waking Dead - Christ's Great Works Son's three great works on our behalf
1. Cross accomplished many thing
Forgiveness and the power to overcomes the constant attacks from the enemy
2. Resurrection
Having put off the old self, we are to put on the new - Ephesians 4:24
It is life we were promised and it is life we need
3. Ascension
All authority was given to Christ
By the grace of God, we share that with him
It was Adam who gave it away and it was Christ who won it back
Lord of the Rings, Two Towers - Theoden (a king) who is reluctant to go to war
Open war is upon you whether you would risk it or not - Aragorn
The primary reason most people do not know the freedom and life Christ promised is that they won't fight for it
|
Waking Dead - Storing Up The good man brings good things out of the good stored in his heart
Out of the overflow of the heart, his mouth speaks - Luke 6:45
Jesus from the fullness of grace we have all received one blessing after another - John 1:16
Paul: I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you - Ephesians 3:16
Caring for our hearts isn't selfish - it is how we begin love
We care for our hearts for the sake of others
What will you bring to others to others if your heart is empty?
You can not love without your heart, you can not love well unless your heart is well
How you handle your heart is how you will handles theirs
Love others as you love yourself - Mark 12:31
If you dismiss your heart, you will end up dismissing others
Perfection of your heart will raise that same standard for them
Caring for your heart is also how you protect your relationship with God
Your heart is where that life flows into you - John 7:37-38
We love ourselves for God's sake - he considers our hearts the treasures of the kingdom
|
Mission - Baptizing Them Heaven is a place of continual celebration
God original place for us was to with him in a state of perfection
- He created us in his own image - Genesis 1:27
- Satan with sin, drove a wedge between us and God
- Sin destroyed our relationship with God and one another - Isaiah 59:1-2
- He grieved that he had made man - Genesis 6:6
God had a radical plan to bring back into a relationship with him and to destroy the power that Satan had over us
To this point, most Bible-believing world would agree
What about baptism?
Marginal matters are not in the Great Commission
Paul included in his list of "seven ones" - Ephesians 4:4-6
We are united in baptism with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus - Romans 6
The master deceiver and father of lies has changed the road signs and send many to spiritual dead ends
|
Mission - Baptizing Them Heaven is a place of continual celebration
God original place for us was to with him in a state of perfection
- He created us in his own image - Genesis 1:27
- Satan with sin, drove a wedge between us and God
- Sin destroyed our relationship with God and one another - Isaiah 59:1-2
- He grieved that he had made man - Genesis 6:6
God had a radical plan to bring back into a relationship with him and to destroy the power that Satan had over us
To this point, most Bible-believing world would agree
What about baptism?
Marginal matters are not in the Great Commission
Paul included in his list of "seven ones" - Ephesians 4:4-6
We are united in baptism with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus - Romans 6
The master deceiver and father of lies has changed the road signs and send many to spiritual dead ends
|
Mission - Baptizing Them Heaven is a place of continual celebration
God original place for us was to with him in a state of perfection
- He created us in his own image - Genesis 1:27
- Satan with sin, drove a wedge between us and God
- Sin destroyed our relationship with God and one another - Isaiah 59:1-2
- He grieved that he had made man - Genesis 6:6
God had a radical plan to bring back into a relationship with him and to destroy the power that Satan had over us
To this point, most Bible-believing world would agree
What about baptism?
Marginal matters are not in the Great Commission
Paul included in his list of "seven ones" - Ephesians 4:4-6
We are united in baptism with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus - Romans 6
The master deceiver and father of lies has changed the road signs and send many to spiritual dead ends
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Saved by Grace through Faith (part II) Ephesians 2:1-10
- What condition are we all in? We are dead in sins and transgressions.
- How much can a dead man do to improve his own condition? What then is the only way we can be saved?
- What do you learn about God in his passage? His love? His mercy? His grace?
- What is the condition of receiving what God has done on our behalf?
- We are saved by grace through faith. Faith is obedient trust in God (James 2:14-18).
- Here we trust what God has done in Jesus as the grounds of our salvation and commit our lives fully to him. While we can never do enough good works to save ourselves, what are we saved for?
- Saving faith is “worked out” in ways that bring glory to God and attest to a Christ-centered life.
Romans 3:21-26
- Having shown that Gentiles (non-Jews) are sinners in Romans 1 and Jews are no better off Romans 2, Paul summarizes his argument here.
- Is it possible for anyone to be “good enough” to be saved?
- Illustration: a plane goes down half way between Hawaii and California. Everyone must swim for the coast. Can some swim much further than others? But what eventually happens to them all? So with us, no one’s own efforts are enough. All fall short. So how are we saved?
- God justifies those who “have faith in Jesus” (v26).
- Saving faith is not in ourselves but “in his blood”—that is, in the death of Jesus on our behalf (v25).
Titus 3:3-8
- When we humbly consider our own sinfulness, it becomes obvious that we are saved because of God’s mercy, not because of righteous things we have done.
- Those who have trusted God for salvation, however, will devote themselves to doing his will.
- God’s grace is AMAZING! He generously accepts us as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf.
- To enter into this saving relationship with God, we must be washed of our sins and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
- We will look more at the conditions of accepting God’s grace in the coming studies.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Baptism into Christ (part II)
Ephesians 1:3-10
- An important New Testament teaching: every spiritual blessing from God is found “in Christ.”
- What are some of those blessings listed here? (Sonship, adoption, grace, redemption, forgiveness…)
- So how does a person enter “into Christ”? (Next passage.)
Galatians 3:26-29
- We are baptized “into Christ.” Note that Paul did not consider faith and baptism to be contradictory.
- Baptism is a tangible expression of faith that places us “in Christ” where salvation occurs.
Infant Baptism? Colossians 2:11-12
- Baptism is an immersion in water (from the Greek baptizo meaning “plunge, dip, immerse” - see Acts 8:38-39), but it does not operate “automatically” apart from the faith of the one who is baptized.
- Can an infant believe? Repent of sin? And what sins need to be forgiven?
- Ezekiel 18:20: Contrary to the widely held doctrine of “original sin,” guilt for sin is not inherited from our parents.
- We are guilty for our own sins and saved by grace through our own response of faith.
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Holy Spirit (part II)
Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Spirit is God’s mark of ownership on his children and a “deposit” of the
blessings of the age to come.
Ephesians 3:14-21 - We are strengthened with real power through the Spirit who dwells within us. We
cannot live the Christian life on our own strength, but God himself provides us with the power to live as
followers of Jesus. Understanding Jesus’ amazing love for us is a source of that strength.
Ephesians 4:29-32 - How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? Why is anger and anger-related sin so
devastating? How is disharmony in our relationships incompatible with having the Spirit of God in us?
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Church (part II)
Ephesians 2:19-21
- Like the Gentiles discussed here, we can now be part of God’s household.
- The church is the family of God. What does “family” mean to you?
- The church is also a spiritual temple built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, whose teachings we find in the Bible, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
- To be part of his temple, we must build our lives and our church on that foundation.
Ephesians 4:1-16
- Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness (vv.1-3).
- We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine (vv.4-6).
- God provides specific leadership roles within the church (vv.7-11)
- in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body in Christ-likeness and love (vv.12-16).
|
Followup - Relationships Demonstrated 1. Actions
- Acts 2:45, 1 John 3:17 - Material needs
- Colossians 1:28-29 - Toil to present one another perfect (mature, complete) in Christ.
- Ephesians 4:29 - Say only what is edifying.
- Hebrews 3:12-13 - Encourage daily!
2. Attitudes
1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
- Respect those who work hard
- Live in peace with each other
- Warn the idle
- Encourage the timid
- Help the weak
- Be patient with everyone
1 Corinthians 3:11-13 - Learn to be open.
- About our sins and struggles
- About our marriage/relationship.
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit not only to leaders, but to each other as well
|
Followup - Relationships Demonstrated 1. Actions
- Acts 2:45, 1 John 3:17 - Material needs
- Colossians 1:28-29 - Toil to present one another perfect (mature, complete) in Christ.
- Ephesians 4:29 - Say only what is edifying.
- Hebrews 3:12-13 - Encourage daily!
2. Attitudes
1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
- Respect those who work hard
- Live in peace with each other
- Warn the idle
- Encourage the timid
- Help the weak
- Be patient with everyone
1 Corinthians 3:11-13 - Learn to be open.
- About our sins and struggles
- About our marriage/relationship.
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit not only to leaders, but to each other as well
|
Followup - Servant (part II) Humble Servant - Luke 17:7-10
Question: What should our attitude be while serving?
- Grumbling servant - “I’ll serve, but I’m not going to like it.”
- Complaining servant - “Why do they always ask me to serve”
- Proud servant - “I serve more than anyone and deserve recognition”
We must be humble servants and serve daily
When we serve, we’ve done nothing special except our duty
Excellent Servant - Mark 7:37
Jesus did all things well
When we serve, we must do so with excellence
Ephesians 6:7-8 - When we serve, we must serve as though Jesus himself had asked us to do it!
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Followup - Servant (part II) Humble Servant - Luke 17:7-10
Question: What should our attitude be while serving?
- Grumbling servant - “I’ll serve, but I’m not going to like it.”
- Complaining servant - “Why do they always ask me to serve”
- Proud servant - “I serve more than anyone and deserve recognition”
We must be humble servants and serve daily
When we serve, we’ve done nothing special except our duty
Excellent Servant - Mark 7:37
Jesus did all things well
When we serve, we must do so with excellence
Ephesians 6:7-8 - When we serve, we must serve as though Jesus himself had asked us to do it!
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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The Church - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To help you understand the role of the church and we (as disciples) have in the church
The Head and Body
Colossians 1:15-20
- Question: Who has all authority? Jesus is the head (focus) of everything we want to do
- Question What is another name for the body of Christ? The head controls the body. Who is the head of the church? Jesus
- Use illustration to help for understanding
The Family
Ephesians 2:14-21
- Question: How would you define a foreigner or an alien person? Before becoming a disciple that's is what you
- Now through Jesus we are able to have peace (relationship) with God. To become family.
- As a disciple you become part of the family (household) not a part of the organization
- Question: What is the foundation of God's household? v20 - The Bible
- Share: Everyone in a household has responsibilities as we have responsibilities to the church family
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NT Commands (part V) NT Commands in the Bible (continued):
- Encourage the timid - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
- Fear God - Luke 12:4-5
- Fix our eyes on Jesus - Hebrews 12:2
- Give material possessions to a brother in need - 1 John 3:17
- Give thanks in all circumstances - 1 Thessalonians 5:18
- Give yourselves in the Lord's work - 1 Corinthians 15:58
- Give thanks for everything - Ephesians 5:20
- Hold to what is good - 1 Thessalonians 5:21
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NT Commands (part VII) Been studying the New Testament commands for the past week:
- Resist the devil - James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9
- Stand firm in the faith - 1 Corinthians 15:58; 1 Corinthians 16:13;1 Peter 5:9
- Store treasures in heaven - Matthew 6:20-21
- Submit to the governing authorities - Romans 13:1
- Submit yourself to God - James 4:7
- Submit yourself to each other - Ephesians 5:21
- Test everything - 1 Thessalonians 5:21
- Walk with the Spirit - Galatians 5:25
- Warn those who are idle - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
- Watch your life and your doctrine closely - 1 Timothy 4:16
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One Another (part I)
Started reading the one another scriptures in the Bible:
- Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you - Romans 15:7
- Admonish one another - Colossians 3:16
- Be at peace with each other - Mark 9:50
- Be devoted to one another in brotherly love - Romans 12:10
- Be kind and compassionate to one another - Ephesians 4:32
- Be patient, bearing with one another in love - Ephesians 4:2
- Bear with each other - Colossians 3:13
- Build each other up - 1 Thessalonians 5:11
- Carry each other’s burdens - Galatians 6:2
- Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another - 1 Peter 5:5
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One Another (part I)
Started reading the one another scriptures in the Bible:
- Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you - Romans 15:7
- Admonish one another - Colossians 3:16
- Be at peace with each other - Mark 9:50
- Be devoted to one another in brotherly love - Romans 12:10
- Be kind and compassionate to one another - Ephesians 4:32
- Be patient, bearing with one another in love - Ephesians 4:2
- Bear with each other - Colossians 3:13
- Build each other up - 1 Thessalonians 5:11
- Carry each other’s burdens - Galatians 6:2
- Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another - 1 Peter 5:5
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One Another (part III) One another scriptures continued:
- Forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another - Colossians 3:13
- Forgiving each other - Ephesians 4:32
- Greet one another with a holy kiss - Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20;2 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Peter 5:14
- Have equal concern for each other - 1 Corinthians 12:25
- Honor one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10
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One Another (part V) Reading through the one another scriptures this week:
- Make your love increase and overflow for each other - 1 Thessalonians 3:12
- Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling - 1 Peter 4:9
- Pray for each other - James 5:16
- Serve one another in love - Galatians 5:13
- Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs - Ephesians 5:19
- Spur one another on toward love and good deeds - Hebrews 10:24
- Stop passing judgment on one another - Romans 14:13
- Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ - Ephesians 5:21
- Teach[one another] - Colossians 3:16
- Wash one another’s feet - John 13:14; John 13:34-35; John 15:12; John 15:17
- When you come together to eat, wait for each other - 1 Corinthians 11:33
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One Another (part V) Reading through the one another scriptures this week:
- Make your love increase and overflow for each other - 1 Thessalonians 3:12
- Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling - 1 Peter 4:9
- Pray for each other - James 5:16
- Serve one another in love - Galatians 5:13
- Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs - Ephesians 5:19
- Spur one another on toward love and good deeds - Hebrews 10:24
- Stop passing judgment on one another - Romans 14:13
- Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ - Ephesians 5:21
- Teach[one another] - Colossians 3:16
- Wash one another’s feet - John 13:14; John 13:34-35; John 15:12; John 15:17
- When you come together to eat, wait for each other - 1 Corinthians 11:33
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God Is (part II) Day two of studying who God is:
- Everywhere - Psalms 139:7-12
- Forgiving - Psalms 86:5; Daniel 9:9; Ephesians 1:7
- Good - 1 Peter 2:3
- Gracious - Exodus 33:19; Psalms 111:4; 1 Peter 5:10
- Hates Sin - Psalms 5:5-6; Habakkuk 1:13
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God Is (part VII) Last day of this series on God's attributes:
- The Creator - Isaiah 40:12, 22, 26
- Truth - Psalms 117:2; Jeremiah 10:10
- Unequaled - Isaiah 40:13-25
- Without Limit - 1 Kings 8:27; Jeremiah 23:23-24
- Works According To His Will - Romans 8:28; Ephesians 1:11
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Names of the Church (part IV) More scriptures about the name given to the church:
- Holy city - Revelations 21:2
- Holy mountain - Zechariah 8:3
- Holy hill - Psalms 15:1
- House of God - 1 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 10:21
- House of the God of Jacob - Isaiah 2:3
- House of Christ - Hebrews 3:6
- Household of God - Ephesians 2:19
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Names of the Church (part II) More scriptures about the church's names:
- City of the Living God - Hebrews 12:22
- Congregation of saints - Psalms 149:1
- Congregation of the Lord's poor - Psalms 74:19
- Dove - Song of Solomon 2:14; 5:2
- Family in heaven and earth - Ephesians 3:15
- Flock of God - Ezekiel 34:15; 1 Peter 5:2
- Fold of Christ - John 10:16
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Names of the Church (part III) Continuing with the names of the church found in the Bible:
- General assembly of the first-born - Hebrews 12:23
- Golden candlestick - Revelation 1:20
- God's building - 1 Corinthians 3:9
- God's husbandry - 1 Corinthians 3:9
- God's heritage - Joel 3:2; 1 Peter 5:3
- Habitation of God - Ephesians 2:22
- Heavenly of Jerusalem - Galatians 4:26; Hebrews 12:22
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Names of the Believers (part IV) Names given to the believers in the Bible
- Chosen generation - 1 Peter 2:9
- Chosen ones - 1 Chronicles 16:13
- Chosen vessels - Acts 9:15
- Christians - Acts 11:26; 26:28
- Dear children - Ephesians 5:1
- Disciples of Christ - John 8:31; 15:8
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Names of the Believers (part VI) Believer name scriptures:
- Fellow-citizens with the saints - Ephesians 2:19
- Fellow-heirs - Ephesians 3:6
- Fellow-servants - Revelations 6:11
- Friends of God - 2 Chronicles 20:7; James 2:23
- Friends of Christ - John 15:15
- Godly, The - Psalms 4:3; 2 Peter 2:9
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Names of the Believers (part VI) Believer name scriptures:
- Fellow-citizens with the saints - Ephesians 2:19
- Fellow-heirs - Ephesians 3:6
- Fellow-servants - Revelations 6:11
- Friends of God - 2 Chronicles 20:7; James 2:23
- Friends of Christ - John 15:15
- Godly, The - Psalms 4:3; 2 Peter 2:9
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Names of the Believers (part X) More names of believers:
- Members of Christ - 1 Corinthians 6:15; Ephesians 5:30
- Men of God - Deuteronomy 33:1; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 3:17
- Obedient children - 1 Peter 1:14
- Peculiar people - Deuteronomy 14:2; Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 2:9
- Peculiar treasure - Exodus 19:5; Psalms 135:4
- People of God - Hebrews 4:9; 1 Peter 2:10
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Names of the Believers (part XII) Alternative names for the church:
- Salt of the earth - Matthew 5:13
- Servants of Christ - 1 Corinthians 7:22; Ephesians 6:6
- Servants of righteousness - Romans 6:18
- Sheep of Christ - John 10:1-16; 21:16
- Sojourners with God - Leviticus 25:23; Psalms 39:12
- Sons of God - John 1:12; Philippians 2:15; 1 John 3:1,2
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Names of Satan (part V) Satan's names study:
- Prince of this world - John 14:30
- Prince of the devils - Matthew 12:24
- Prince of the power of the air - Ephesians 2:2
- Ruler of the darkness of this world - Ephesians 6:12
- Satan - 1 Chronicles 21:1; Job 1:6
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Names of Satan (part V) Satan's names study:
- Prince of this world - John 14:30
- Prince of the devils - Matthew 12:24
- Prince of the power of the air - Ephesians 2:2
- Ruler of the darkness of this world - Ephesians 6:12
- Satan - 1 Chronicles 21:1; Job 1:6
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Names of Satan (part VI) Last day (day six) of the Satan name study:
- Serpent - Genesis 3:4,16; 2 Corinthians 11:3
- Spirit that works in the children of disobedience - Ephesians 2:2
- Tempter - Matthew 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 3:5
- The god of this world - 2 Corinthians 4:4
- Unclean spirit - Matthew 12:43
- Wicked-one - Matthew 13:19,38
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Mind of Christ - Intro (part V) The heart is the source of obedience
- You wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted - Romans 6:17
- Obey masters is doing the will of God from your heart - Ephesians 6:6
The heart is the source of your character
- "Eat and drink," he says to you, but his heart is not with you - Proverbs 23:7
- The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart - Luke 6:43-46
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Mind of Christ - Relationship with God (part VI) For oneness with the Father, we must be of the same kind of person:
- Ephesians 4:22-24 - Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness
- Colossians 3:10 - Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator
Oneness with the Father is a definable concept in our own personal lives.
What it does NOT mean:
- It is not merely being a member of the church.
- It is not merely being baptized.
- It is not merely observing the Lord’s Supper each Sunday.
- It is not merely the equivalent of quiet time each day.
- It is not merely an involvement in one or more discipling relationships.
- It is not merely being busy in “Church work”.
- It is not merely being fruitful in evangelism.
What it DOES mean:
- It means that I am continually conscious of God’s presence and that I desire such by seeking God’s face throughout the day
- It means that His thoughts are becoming my thoughts, His ways are becoming my ways (this is a continual, never ending process)
- It means that I truly love God and want to obey His will with more of my heart each day.
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Mind of Christ - Relationship with God (part VI) For oneness with the Father, we must be of the same kind of person:
- Ephesians 4:22-24 - Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness
- Colossians 3:10 - Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator
Oneness with the Father is a definable concept in our own personal lives.
What it does NOT mean:
- It is not merely being a member of the church.
- It is not merely being baptized.
- It is not merely observing the Lord’s Supper each Sunday.
- It is not merely the equivalent of quiet time each day.
- It is not merely an involvement in one or more discipling relationships.
- It is not merely being busy in “Church work”.
- It is not merely being fruitful in evangelism.
What it DOES mean:
- It means that I am continually conscious of God’s presence and that I desire such by seeking God’s face throughout the day
- It means that His thoughts are becoming my thoughts, His ways are becoming my ways (this is a continual, never ending process)
- It means that I truly love God and want to obey His will with more of my heart each day.
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Mind of Christ - Relationship with God (part VI) For oneness with the Father, we must be of the same kind of person:
- Ephesians 4:22-24 - Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness
- Colossians 3:10 - Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator
Oneness with the Father is a definable concept in our own personal lives.
What it does NOT mean:
- It is not merely being a member of the church.
- It is not merely being baptized.
- It is not merely observing the Lord’s Supper each Sunday.
- It is not merely the equivalent of quiet time each day.
- It is not merely an involvement in one or more discipling relationships.
- It is not merely being busy in “Church work”.
- It is not merely being fruitful in evangelism.
What it DOES mean:
- It means that I am continually conscious of God’s presence and that I desire such by seeking God’s face throughout the day
- It means that His thoughts are becoming my thoughts, His ways are becoming my ways (this is a continual, never ending process)
- It means that I truly love God and want to obey His will with more of my heart each day.
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Mind of Christ - Heavenly Mission (part II) Jesus employed at least five elements to accomplish this mission:
1. He gave himself totally to its fulfillment.
- John 6:51 - This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
- Galatians 1:4 - He gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age
- Galatians 2:20 - I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live
- Ephesians 5:2 - Christ loved us and gave himself up for us
- Titus 2:14 - He gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness
- 1 John 3:16 - Jesus Christ laid down his life for us
- John 10:11 - I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
- Philippians 2:7- He made himself nothing
- Hebrews 7:27 - He sacrificed for their sins once for all
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Mind of Christ - About Self (part II) The self-centered life (continued):
3. His worship is direct toward himself
- Luke 18:11 - Prayer: I thank you that I am not like other men
- Philippians 3:19 - Their god is their stomach
- 2 Timothy 3:2 - People will be lovers of themselves
4. His pleasure is to fulfill himself
- 2 Timothy 3:4 - Lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God
- Proverbs 21:17 - He who loves pleasure will become poor
- 1 Timothy 5:6 - But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead
5. His sinful nature is expressed through the gratification of self
- Galatians 5:16 - Live by the Spirit and not our sinful desires
- Ephesians 4:19 - Lost all sensitivity
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Daughter Needs - Stumbling or Building block? Are we a stumbling or building block for our daughter?
Men have been looking out for number one at rates that are alarming
61.7% live with their biological father
82.4% live with their dad in 1960
Realize that God does measure success based on the world's standards
God calls us to raise our daughters int he nurture and admonition of the Lord - Ephesians 6:4
Then our daughters will give us peace and delight to our souls - Proverbs 29:17
Our role in our daughter's life will shape the idea of her husband and view of the heavenly Father
We have no excuse to be satisfied with mediocrity
Consider the 6 stumbling block fathers...
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Fearing God - Turning Aside Wrath It is difficult for us to think about God's wrath; we prefer to think about his love
We envision a wrathful person as out of control
God's wrath is controlled, it is also described as anger, fury, and indignation
Unrepentant people are storing up wrath - Romans 2:5
We were born by nature as objects of wrath - Ephesians 2:3
Through condemnation of Adam's sin and our own personal sin
On the cross, Jesus suffered God's wrath in our place
"Why have you forsaken me?" - Matthew 27:46
Really start to enjoy fearing God:
- Realize in the depth that we deserve the wrath of God yet it was poured out on Jesus instead
- We are awed by His wrath and His love
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Followup: Humility II (part I) Ephesians 4:1-6 - How does God want us to get along and be unified with others?
- Be humble towards each other
- Be patient with each other
- Focus on our love for others so that we can bear with their faults
What are 2 things would you like to change in your character?
- Jesus still died on the cross for you in spite of your character flaws.
- To get along with others we must put ourselves aside, just as Jesus did for us.
- John 13:34 - love one another
1 Peter 5:5-7 - How can humility be like clothing?
- You put it on everyday
- Not a natural part of us-has to be put on (thought about)
- Should be the first thing people see
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Followup: Humility II (part I) Ephesians 4:1-6 - How does God want us to get along and be unified with others?
- Be humble towards each other
- Be patient with each other
- Focus on our love for others so that we can bear with their faults
What are 2 things would you like to change in your character?
- Jesus still died on the cross for you in spite of your character flaws.
- To get along with others we must put ourselves aside, just as Jesus did for us.
- John 13:34 - love one another
1 Peter 5:5-7 - How can humility be like clothing?
- You put it on everyday
- Not a natural part of us-has to be put on (thought about)
- Should be the first thing people see
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Followup: Humility II (part I) Ephesians 4:1-6 - How does God want us to get along and be unified with others?
- Be humble towards each other
- Be patient with each other
- Focus on our love for others so that we can bear with their faults
What are 2 things would you like to change in your character?
- Jesus still died on the cross for you in spite of your character flaws.
- To get along with others we must put ourselves aside, just as Jesus did for us.
- John 13:34 - love one another
1 Peter 5:5-7 - How can humility be like clothing?
- You put it on everyday
- Not a natural part of us-has to be put on (thought about)
- Should be the first thing people see
|
Followup: Humility II (part I) Ephesians 4:1-6 - How does God want us to get along and be unified with others?
- Be humble towards each other
- Be patient with each other
- Focus on our love for others so that we can bear with their faults
What are 2 things would you like to change in your character?
- Jesus still died on the cross for you in spite of your character flaws.
- To get along with others we must put ourselves aside, just as Jesus did for us.
- John 13:34 - love one another
1 Peter 5:5-7 - How can humility be like clothing?
- You put it on everyday
- Not a natural part of us-has to be put on (thought about)
- Should be the first thing people see
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Followup: Humility II (part I) Ephesians 4:1-6 - How does God want us to get along and be unified with others?
- Be humble towards each other
- Be patient with each other
- Focus on our love for others so that we can bear with their faults
What are 2 things would you like to change in your character?
- Jesus still died on the cross for you in spite of your character flaws.
- To get along with others we must put ourselves aside, just as Jesus did for us.
- John 13:34 - love one another
1 Peter 5:5-7 - How can humility be like clothing?
- You put it on everyday
- Not a natural part of us-has to be put on (thought about)
- Should be the first thing people see
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Followup: Humility II (part I) Ephesians 4:1-6 - How does God want us to get along and be unified with others?
- Be humble towards each other
- Be patient with each other
- Focus on our love for others so that we can bear with their faults
What are 2 things would you like to change in your character?
- Jesus still died on the cross for you in spite of your character flaws.
- To get along with others we must put ourselves aside, just as Jesus did for us.
- John 13:34 - love one another
1 Peter 5:5-7 - How can humility be like clothing?
- You put it on everyday
- Not a natural part of us-has to be put on (thought about)
- Should be the first thing people see
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Followup: Purity (part II) 2 Timothy 2:22
A. What does it mean to “flee” from something?
To desperately run away from something dangerous (a murderer, predator, etc…)
B. What does it mean to “pursue” something?
To move toward something with all your strength
Ephesians 5:3-7
- How much is a hint? Are there any hints in your life?
- What does God call us to replace impurity with?
How do you overcome these temptations? Psalms 119:9-16
* We overcome sin by meditating on God’s precepts (word) and following his statues.
James 5:16 (we as a family are here for each other, not to judge but to support)
* God wants you to be pure and holy, he’s given you his word and spiritual brothers and sisters to help you on your spiritual journey.
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Followup: Purity (part II) 2 Timothy 2:22
A. What does it mean to “flee” from something?
To desperately run away from something dangerous (a murderer, predator, etc…)
B. What does it mean to “pursue” something?
To move toward something with all your strength
Ephesians 5:3-7
- How much is a hint? Are there any hints in your life?
- What does God call us to replace impurity with?
How do you overcome these temptations? Psalms 119:9-16
* We overcome sin by meditating on God’s precepts (word) and following his statues.
James 5:16 (we as a family are here for each other, not to judge but to support)
* God wants you to be pure and holy, he’s given you his word and spiritual brothers and sisters to help you on your spiritual journey.
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Followup: Purity (part II) 2 Timothy 2:22
A. What does it mean to “flee” from something?
To desperately run away from something dangerous (a murderer, predator, etc…)
B. What does it mean to “pursue” something?
To move toward something with all your strength
Ephesians 5:3-7
- How much is a hint? Are there any hints in your life?
- What does God call us to replace impurity with?
How do you overcome these temptations? Psalms 119:9-16
* We overcome sin by meditating on God’s precepts (word) and following his statues.
James 5:16 (we as a family are here for each other, not to judge but to support)
* God wants you to be pure and holy, he’s given you his word and spiritual brothers and sisters to help you on your spiritual journey.
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Followup: Purity (part II) 2 Timothy 2:22
A. What does it mean to “flee” from something?
To desperately run away from something dangerous (a murderer, predator, etc…)
B. What does it mean to “pursue” something?
To move toward something with all your strength
Ephesians 5:3-7
- How much is a hint? Are there any hints in your life?
- What does God call us to replace impurity with?
How do you overcome these temptations? Psalms 119:9-16
* We overcome sin by meditating on God’s precepts (word) and following his statues.
James 5:16 (we as a family are here for each other, not to judge but to support)
* God wants you to be pure and holy, he’s given you his word and spiritual brothers and sisters to help you on your spiritual journey.
|
Followup: Purity (part II) 2 Timothy 2:22
A. What does it mean to “flee” from something?
To desperately run away from something dangerous (a murderer, predator, etc…)
B. What does it mean to “pursue” something?
To move toward something with all your strength
Ephesians 5:3-7
- How much is a hint? Are there any hints in your life?
- What does God call us to replace impurity with?
How do you overcome these temptations? Psalms 119:9-16
* We overcome sin by meditating on God’s precepts (word) and following his statues.
James 5:16 (we as a family are here for each other, not to judge but to support)
* God wants you to be pure and holy, he’s given you his word and spiritual brothers and sisters to help you on your spiritual journey.
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part I) Ephesians 2:19-22
We are the family of Christ
In God’s eyes there is no such thing as sibling rivalry. You must treat all your spiritual brothers and sisters with so much love that this love is only surpassed by your love for God and your parents. Many times we bring (into God’s family) the mentality we have from our (physical family). Our spiritual family is different from our physical family.
How does God want his family to be?
Romans 12:4-8
- We are all different (culture, race, socially, etc…) but we make up one body.
- We have different gifts but we must learn to accept each other for who we are.
- What do you see as (1) of your gifts? What gifts do you see in others?
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part I) Ephesians 2:19-22
We are the family of Christ
In God’s eyes there is no such thing as sibling rivalry. You must treat all your spiritual brothers and sisters with so much love that this love is only surpassed by your love for God and your parents. Many times we bring (into God’s family) the mentality we have from our (physical family). Our spiritual family is different from our physical family.
How does God want his family to be?
Romans 12:4-8
- We are all different (culture, race, socially, etc…) but we make up one body.
- We have different gifts but we must learn to accept each other for who we are.
- What do you see as (1) of your gifts? What gifts do you see in others?
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part I) Ephesians 2:19-22
We are the family of Christ
In God’s eyes there is no such thing as sibling rivalry. You must treat all your spiritual brothers and sisters with so much love that this love is only surpassed by your love for God and your parents. Many times we bring (into God’s family) the mentality we have from our (physical family). Our spiritual family is different from our physical family.
How does God want his family to be?
Romans 12:4-8
- We are all different (culture, race, socially, etc…) but we make up one body.
- We have different gifts but we must learn to accept each other for who we are.
- What do you see as (1) of your gifts? What gifts do you see in others?
|
Followup: Relationships in the Body (part I) Ephesians 2:19-22
We are the family of Christ
In God’s eyes there is no such thing as sibling rivalry. You must treat all your spiritual brothers and sisters with so much love that this love is only surpassed by your love for God and your parents. Many times we bring (into God’s family) the mentality we have from our (physical family). Our spiritual family is different from our physical family.
How does God want his family to be?
Romans 12:4-8
- We are all different (culture, race, socially, etc…) but we make up one body.
- We have different gifts but we must learn to accept each other for who we are.
- What do you see as (1) of your gifts? What gifts do you see in others?
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part II) John 13:34
- We must love each other the way Jesus loves us (unconditionally).
- How did Jesus love his disciples unconditionally (Peter, Judas, John, etc…)?
1 Peter 1:22-23
- Love each other deeply from the heart (not surface love)
- Share our insecurities (to not let Satan get a foot hold)
Acts 2:44-47 - Met each others needs (physically, emotionally and spiritually)
Colossians 1:28-29 - They discipled (trained) each other to be better disciples of Jesus.
Ephesians 4:29 - Built each other up (no gossip but encouragement)
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit to each other (husband, wife, leaders, etc…) because of Christ.
Remember we all have challenges from our past (personal, spiritual and family) but we are all born again into the family of God. God is the head of the family and we are all brothers and sisters.
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part II) John 13:34
- We must love each other the way Jesus loves us (unconditionally).
- How did Jesus love his disciples unconditionally (Peter, Judas, John, etc…)?
1 Peter 1:22-23
- Love each other deeply from the heart (not surface love)
- Share our insecurities (to not let Satan get a foot hold)
Acts 2:44-47 - Met each others needs (physically, emotionally and spiritually)
Colossians 1:28-29 - They discipled (trained) each other to be better disciples of Jesus.
Ephesians 4:29 - Built each other up (no gossip but encouragement)
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit to each other (husband, wife, leaders, etc…) because of Christ.
Remember we all have challenges from our past (personal, spiritual and family) but we are all born again into the family of God. God is the head of the family and we are all brothers and sisters.
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Prayer of the Righeous - Knowing God through His Word (part I)
Knowing God through our own study of the Bible is essential
I want to know Christ and the power of the resurrection - Philippians 3:10
We can get to know Christ through the living word of God - John 1:1
When we are truly in love with God, our prayers are fresh and exciting
God wants us to know him and be close to him
For that reason, he gave us the Counselor, the Holy Spirit - John 14:16, Romans 8:9-16
Fulfilling Jesus 's promise about not leaving us - John 14:18
The Spirit is there to help us do what we want to do
The Spirit is always working to help us have the mind of Christ - 1 Corinthians 2:16
The Spirit is grieved when we sin - Ephesians 4:30
The Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God's children - Romans 8:15-16
The Spirit helps us in our weakness, intercedes for us - Romans 8:26
We are to pray in the Holy Spirit - Jude 20
And to pray in the spirit in all occasions - Ephesians 6:18
Our prayers are spiritual when they are deeply rooted in scripture
Prayer and Word of God are inseparable
Prayer is like fire and fuel is God's word
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Prayer of the Righeous - Knowing God through His Word (part I)
Knowing God through our own study of the Bible is essential
I want to know Christ and the power of the resurrection - Philippians 3:10
We can get to know Christ through the living word of God - John 1:1
When we are truly in love with God, our prayers are fresh and exciting
God wants us to know him and be close to him
For that reason, he gave us the Counselor, the Holy Spirit - John 14:16, Romans 8:9-16
Fulfilling Jesus 's promise about not leaving us - John 14:18
The Spirit is there to help us do what we want to do
The Spirit is always working to help us have the mind of Christ - 1 Corinthians 2:16
The Spirit is grieved when we sin - Ephesians 4:30
The Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God's children - Romans 8:15-16
The Spirit helps us in our weakness, intercedes for us - Romans 8:26
We are to pray in the Holy Spirit - Jude 20
And to pray in the spirit in all occasions - Ephesians 6:18
Our prayers are spiritual when they are deeply rooted in scripture
Prayer and Word of God are inseparable
Prayer is like fire and fuel is God's word
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Genesis 18 - Abraham prays for Sodom
Summary
Three visitors came and said that Sarah would have a son next year. Sodom was very evil; Abraham pleaded with the LORD for the city.
Observations
Genesis 18:14 - Is anything too hard for the LORD?
This is a good question to ask ourselves in times where we doubt God in anyway. Sarai doubted that she would become pregnant because of how old she was. Mary may have been thinking of this scripture when the angel came to her saying she would become pregnant as a virgin - her reaction was much more faithful. Bog came do much more than we can ask or imagine [Ephesians 3:20].
Genesis 18:32 - For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it
God wants all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth [1 Timothy 2:4]. It is the reason God will waiting out all the evil and sin that is in the world. He is looking and searching out those who will changing their ways and love him back. Who around us is looking for God?
Personal Application
I doubt God way too much (once is too much )and I do probably everyday - I am doing it right now. God is god, he can do anything. Yes, even that. I have got to stop making God smaller in my mind. Every time that I think I have an understanding how big and strong he is - God is beyond that. He greater than I can imagine.
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Mind Change - Every Situation In every situation there is a right spiritual way to think.
It may take some time to find it.
It may take some discipline to embrace it.
But it is always there, and it is always best.
It is always the key to overcoming any challenge.
Philippians 1:27 - Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ
Ephesians 5:10 - find out what pleases the Lord
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - give thanks in all circumstances
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Mind Change - Forgive Forgive as God has forgiven you.
Forgiven quickly.
Forgive completely.
Realize nothing will hurt you like not forgiving others.
Matthew 6:14-15 - Forgive others their sins
Ephesians 4:31-32 - Forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you
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Mind Change - Forgive Forgive as God has forgiven you.
Forgiven quickly.
Forgive completely.
Realize nothing will hurt you like not forgiving others.
Matthew 6:14-15 - Forgive others their sins
Ephesians 4:31-32 - Forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
|
Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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God (part II) God is a powerful God
- 2 Chronicles 32:6-9 - God is greater than the devil or any other being
- Psalms 18:29 - God enables us to do what we can’t do on our own by His power
- Ephesians 3:20-21 God has immeasurable and unimaginable power
God is a loving God
- Deuteronomy 1:29-31; 3- God is a father who loves to help you and carry you as His child
- Psalms 68:4-6 - God loves to help and rescue those who need to be loved
- Matthew 10:29-31 - God knows and cares about everything in our lives
God is serious God
- Hosea 5:4-6 - God will not tolerate unrepentant behavior
- Psalms 78:56-59 - God refused to let Israel come to Him because of their sin
- Romans 11:22 - God will be stern to those who continue to sin
These and many other passages will help you better understand the full and complete nature of God. None of us want other people to make a judgment on us with just a few facts about our lives. God doesn’t either!! Continue to read the Bible and learn more about your great God. What you will discover is that the more you know, the more you see just how magnificent God really is.
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God (part II) God is a powerful God
- 2 Chronicles 32:6-9 - God is greater than the devil or any other being
- Psalms 18:29 - God enables us to do what we can’t do on our own by His power
- Ephesians 3:20-21 God has immeasurable and unimaginable power
God is a loving God
- Deuteronomy 1:29-31; 3- God is a father who loves to help you and carry you as His child
- Psalms 68:4-6 - God loves to help and rescue those who need to be loved
- Matthew 10:29-31 - God knows and cares about everything in our lives
God is serious God
- Hosea 5:4-6 - God will not tolerate unrepentant behavior
- Psalms 78:56-59 - God refused to let Israel come to Him because of their sin
- Romans 11:22 - God will be stern to those who continue to sin
These and many other passages will help you better understand the full and complete nature of God. None of us want other people to make a judgment on us with just a few facts about our lives. God doesn’t either!! Continue to read the Bible and learn more about your great God. What you will discover is that the more you know, the more you see just how magnificent God really is.
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part III) Grace should motivate you to work hard for God
- 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 - Paul felt more grace so he worked even harder
- Ephesians 2:8-10 - God has given us good works to do in response to His grace
Grace can be forfeited or lost
- Hebrews 10:26-31 - When we deliberately keep on sinning and insult the amazing gift of grace
- Jonah 2:1-8 - Our lack of repentance can keep God’s grace from our lives
Don’t let Satan lie to you. God has a lot of grace and loves giving it out to you on a regular basis. You receive grace when you sin after baptism as you did during your baptism. So enjoy the grace, but don’t let Satan lie to you in another way by telling you to relax and do what ever you want because God is a God of grace. Allow the grace of God to call you higher than ever before and further away from old, sinful ways.
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Grace (part III) Grace should motivate you to work hard for God
- 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 - Paul felt more grace so he worked even harder
- Ephesians 2:8-10 - God has given us good works to do in response to His grace
Grace can be forfeited or lost
- Hebrews 10:26-31 - When we deliberately keep on sinning and insult the amazing gift of grace
- Jonah 2:1-8 - Our lack of repentance can keep God’s grace from our lives
Don’t let Satan lie to you. God has a lot of grace and loves giving it out to you on a regular basis. You receive grace when you sin after baptism as you did during your baptism. So enjoy the grace, but don’t let Satan lie to you in another way by telling you to relax and do what ever you want because God is a God of grace. Allow the grace of God to call you higher than ever before and further away from old, sinful ways.
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Grace (part III) Grace should motivate you to work hard for God
- 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 - Paul felt more grace so he worked even harder
- Ephesians 2:8-10 - God has given us good works to do in response to His grace
Grace can be forfeited or lost
- Hebrews 10:26-31 - When we deliberately keep on sinning and insult the amazing gift of grace
- Jonah 2:1-8 - Our lack of repentance can keep God’s grace from our lives
Don’t let Satan lie to you. God has a lot of grace and loves giving it out to you on a regular basis. You receive grace when you sin after baptism as you did during your baptism. So enjoy the grace, but don’t let Satan lie to you in another way by telling you to relax and do what ever you want because God is a God of grace. Allow the grace of God to call you higher than ever before and further away from old, sinful ways.
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Gratitude (part II) Gratitude must be seen in our prayer life
- Philippians 4:6 - Start your prayer times every day with your thankful list
- 1 Timothy 4:4 - Be grateful for everything God has provided you with – even the basics
Lack of gratitude is both sinful and dangerous
- Romans 1:21 - Not thanking God can lead to involvement in other sinful areas
- Luke 17:11-19 - Not thanking God for the blessings you receive is selfish
Gratitude should be felt and spoken on a continual basis
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Be thankful in all circumstances, whether great or challenging
- Ephesians 5:19-20 - Always be thankful-for all things (make a list of 200 thing to be grateful)
As you can see, gratitude is a very important part of your Christian life. Being grateful for all things and at all times will not be easy. You will need to be constantly remind yourself and be reminded by others just how awesome God is and how good He has been to you. The devil wants you to be negative-a whiner and complainer. God wants and expects you to be a grateful disciple. Make some decisions today about how thankful you will be from this day forward.
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Gratitude (part II) Gratitude must be seen in our prayer life
- Philippians 4:6 - Start your prayer times every day with your thankful list
- 1 Timothy 4:4 - Be grateful for everything God has provided you with – even the basics
Lack of gratitude is both sinful and dangerous
- Romans 1:21 - Not thanking God can lead to involvement in other sinful areas
- Luke 17:11-19 - Not thanking God for the blessings you receive is selfish
Gratitude should be felt and spoken on a continual basis
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Be thankful in all circumstances, whether great or challenging
- Ephesians 5:19-20 - Always be thankful-for all things (make a list of 200 thing to be grateful)
As you can see, gratitude is a very important part of your Christian life. Being grateful for all things and at all times will not be easy. You will need to be constantly remind yourself and be reminded by others just how awesome God is and how good He has been to you. The devil wants you to be negative-a whiner and complainer. God wants and expects you to be a grateful disciple. Make some decisions today about how thankful you will be from this day forward.
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Growing (part I) As a young disciple, your commitment to God must be solid and steady. However, in no way does this mean you will be perfect or a “super-disciple” in an instant. And thankfully, God doesn’t expect you to be. What He does expect is something you and everybody else can do – GROW!! This study will help you to better understand how important growing as a disciple is, and provide you with some helpful ways to ensure that growth.
Begin with the Bible
- 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)
Get help from your leaders
- Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
- Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions
Let your fellow-disciple help you
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
- Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges
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Growing (part I) As a young disciple, your commitment to God must be solid and steady. However, in no way does this mean you will be perfect or a “super-disciple” in an instant. And thankfully, God doesn’t expect you to be. What He does expect is something you and everybody else can do – GROW!! This study will help you to better understand how important growing as a disciple is, and provide you with some helpful ways to ensure that growth.
Begin with the Bible
- 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)
Get help from your leaders
- Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
- Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions
Let your fellow-disciple help you
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
- Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges
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Growing (part I) As a young disciple, your commitment to God must be solid and steady. However, in no way does this mean you will be perfect or a “super-disciple” in an instant. And thankfully, God doesn’t expect you to be. What He does expect is something you and everybody else can do – GROW!! This study will help you to better understand how important growing as a disciple is, and provide you with some helpful ways to ensure that growth.
Begin with the Bible
- 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)
Get help from your leaders
- Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
- Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions
Let your fellow-disciple help you
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
- Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges
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Growing (part I) As a young disciple, your commitment to God must be solid and steady. However, in no way does this mean you will be perfect or a “super-disciple” in an instant. And thankfully, God doesn’t expect you to be. What He does expect is something you and everybody else can do – GROW!! This study will help you to better understand how important growing as a disciple is, and provide you with some helpful ways to ensure that growth.
Begin with the Bible
- 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)
Get help from your leaders
- Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
- Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions
Let your fellow-disciple help you
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
- Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges
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Growing (part I) As a young disciple, your commitment to God must be solid and steady. However, in no way does this mean you will be perfect or a “super-disciple” in an instant. And thankfully, God doesn’t expect you to be. What He does expect is something you and everybody else can do – GROW!! This study will help you to better understand how important growing as a disciple is, and provide you with some helpful ways to ensure that growth.
Begin with the Bible
- 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)
Get help from your leaders
- Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
- Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions
Let your fellow-disciple help you
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
- Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges
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Growing (part I) As a young disciple, your commitment to God must be solid and steady. However, in no way does this mean you will be perfect or a “super-disciple” in an instant. And thankfully, God doesn’t expect you to be. What He does expect is something you and everybody else can do – GROW!! This study will help you to better understand how important growing as a disciple is, and provide you with some helpful ways to ensure that growth.
Begin with the Bible
- 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)
Get help from your leaders
- Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
- Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions
Let your fellow-disciple help you
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
- Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges
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Guarding Your Heart (part II) Being open and vulnerable will help keep your heart healthy
- Proverbs 28:13 - You will always prosper and find mercy from God and other people
- Hebrews 3:13 - Talk with others daily to receive the encouragement needed
- James 5:16 - Healing will come to your heart when you confess to others
Develop a “play-it-safe” mentality with your heart
- Deuteronomy 11:16 - Satan will always be trying to entice you to return to your life of sin
- Psalms 101:2 - Be careful every day and in every situation
- 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 - Don’t be over-confident; even the greatest have fallen
- Ephesians 5:15-17 - Don’t be careless with your life; take the time to think about all you do
- Hebrews 2:1 - Lack of Being careful will cause you to drift from God
Your salvation is a priceless gift and your most important possession. Guard it with great care and do whatever you can to keep the number one killer of Christians out of your life - sin!! Satan will work to steal you away from God but God has given you the information and the power to overcome all of his efforts. (Ephesians 6:10-18) Heaven is too great a reward to not do all you can to guard your salvation.
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Guarding Your Heart (part II) Being open and vulnerable will help keep your heart healthy
- Proverbs 28:13 - You will always prosper and find mercy from God and other people
- Hebrews 3:13 - Talk with others daily to receive the encouragement needed
- James 5:16 - Healing will come to your heart when you confess to others
Develop a “play-it-safe” mentality with your heart
- Deuteronomy 11:16 - Satan will always be trying to entice you to return to your life of sin
- Psalms 101:2 - Be careful every day and in every situation
- 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 - Don’t be over-confident; even the greatest have fallen
- Ephesians 5:15-17 - Don’t be careless with your life; take the time to think about all you do
- Hebrews 2:1 - Lack of Being careful will cause you to drift from God
Your salvation is a priceless gift and your most important possession. Guard it with great care and do whatever you can to keep the number one killer of Christians out of your life - sin!! Satan will work to steal you away from God but God has given you the information and the power to overcome all of his efforts. (Ephesians 6:10-18) Heaven is too great a reward to not do all you can to guard your salvation.
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Guarding Your Heart (part II) Being open and vulnerable will help keep your heart healthy
- Proverbs 28:13 - You will always prosper and find mercy from God and other people
- Hebrews 3:13 - Talk with others daily to receive the encouragement needed
- James 5:16 - Healing will come to your heart when you confess to others
Develop a “play-it-safe” mentality with your heart
- Deuteronomy 11:16 - Satan will always be trying to entice you to return to your life of sin
- Psalms 101:2 - Be careful every day and in every situation
- 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 - Don’t be over-confident; even the greatest have fallen
- Ephesians 5:15-17 - Don’t be careless with your life; take the time to think about all you do
- Hebrews 2:1 - Lack of Being careful will cause you to drift from God
Your salvation is a priceless gift and your most important possession. Guard it with great care and do whatever you can to keep the number one killer of Christians out of your life - sin!! Satan will work to steal you away from God but God has given you the information and the power to overcome all of his efforts. (Ephesians 6:10-18) Heaven is too great a reward to not do all you can to guard your salvation.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 2 - Tested and Tempted Matthew 3:16-4:11
- What happened to Jesus after his baptism? What should you expect after your baptism?
- How was Jesus tempted to question his relationship with God? God's plan for him?
- How has Satan tempted you with doubts/insecurity/fears since your baptism?
- How did Jesus use the Bible to fight temptation? How does the Bible expose Satan's lies?
Ephesians 6:10-18
- How might the devil scheme against you?
- What armor has God provided to keep you strong?
- What is our only "weapon" against Satan (vs. 17)?
Application: Expect to be tempted and decide to be open about your struggles. Talk with another Christian today about your temptations and pray together.
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Day 12 - Doing Good Things Ephesians 2:10
- What has God created for us to do?
- Make a list of some good works that you could do.
1 Peter 4:8-11
- How does love cover over many sins?
- Have you been offering hospitality to other disciples?
- How can you improve in this?
- Why do you think God wants you to be giving to others?
Galatians 6:9-10
- Who does God want us to help?
- Who in your Bible talk has special needs right now that you could help?
APPLICATION: If you see needs you can meet, do it THIS WEEK.
If you don't know how you can help, ASK. REMEMBER: We need each other. We are family.
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Day 27 - Learning to be Loyal What does loyalty mean to you?
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
- Write out this passage substituting your name in place of the word love. Now read through it again, thinking about some specific relationships you have.
- What do you see about yourself that needs to change?
Ephesians 4:29
- What kind of talk is harmful to others?
- Have you been involved in talk that is unkind, slanderous or mocking?
1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
- Who is "over you in the Lord"?
- Is this based on how they live?
- Write some names of Christians who work hard among you. Do you respect them from your heart?
- What is your attitude toward Christians who are weak or slow to learn?
Application: Write a note of appreciation to someone you respect, who is over you in the Lord and also to someone who needs patient encouragement.
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Day 30 - Joined Together in Love Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?
Ephesians 4:1-3
- Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
- Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
- What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
- How can you consider others better that yourself?
- Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 & Matthew 5:23-24
- How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
- Who should go to whom first?
- Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.
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Day 30 - Joined Together in Love Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?
Ephesians 4:1-3
- Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
- Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
- What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
- How can you consider others better that yourself?
- Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 & Matthew 5:23-24
- How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
- Who should go to whom first?
- Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.
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Day 30 - Joined Together in Love Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?
Ephesians 4:1-3
- Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
- Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
- What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
- How can you consider others better that yourself?
- Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 & Matthew 5:23-24
- How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
- Who should go to whom first?
- Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Fear of Failure - God is Able, Part 2 by Del & Daurence Johnson - Region Leaders: San Francisco Church of Christ
Part of dealing with failure and sin is realizing that God is able. He can give us strength, and forgiveness to help us deal with our burdens.
1) God is able to do immeasurably more - Ephesians 3:14-21
God is able to do more than what my puny faith believes. So I have to ask for so much more and imagine even greater than I ever have. Make a list of your dreams that you desire. Pray through them. Test Him. See if the outcome doesn't blow your mind.
2) God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8
We need forgiveness to make up for how we purposely sabotage God's will for our life. Grace makes up for all our weaknesses and inadequacies.There are things God has done for us that we will never get the chance to thank Him for, because we don't even know what they are. For example, the times that we have hurt people, but they never said anything. Or times we could have hurt ourselves, but He guided us down a different road. God is the unknown soldier for every moment of our life. Our failures have become learning experiences that result in our maturity and people becoming stronger disciples.
Don't short cut God's discipline and will for your life because you are consumed with you and not Him. Learn to pray. Learn to read your Bible. Learn to be open and build spiritual friendships that keep you believing and repenting. He is not finished with you yet, nor I.
Decisions:
- Pray through my dream list at least twice a week
- Learn to stop trying to be perfect and be grateful for his grace
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
|
Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part I) Studying through the blessing of Jesus:
1. Access to God's Grace - Ephesians 2:8-18
2. We are adopted by God - Ephesians 1:5
3. We get an Inheritance - Ephesians 1:11
4. We are elected saved - 1 Peter 1:2
5. We become a child of God - John 1:12
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Blessings In Christ (part III) Continue studying through the blessing of Jesus:
11. We are reconciled to God - Romans 5:10
12. We are Sanctified - 1 Corinthians 6:11
13. We are accepted in the Beloved - Ephesians 1:6
14. We are Baptized into the body of Christ - 1 Corinthians 12:13
15. We are buried with him - Romans 6:4
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Blessings In Christ (part V) Continue studying through the blessing of Jesus:
21. We receive imputed righteousness - Romans 4:6
22. Our names are written in heaven - Luke 10:20
23. We are given a blessed hope of Christ's returning - Titus 2:13
24. We are seated in heavenly places - Ephesians 2:6
25. We have fellowship with the trinity - 1 John 1:3
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Blessings In Christ (part VI) Continue studying through the blessing of Jesus:
26. We have a mansion in heaven - John 14:2
27. We are born again with a spiritual re-birth - John 3:3-6
28. We have received an anointing - 1 John 2:27
29. The Holy Spirit will live with us now and forever - John 14:16
30. We've been sealed by the Holy spirit unto the day of redemption - Ephesians 4:30
31. Our bodies become the temple of the Holy Spirit - 1 Corinthians 6:19
32. We are forever forgiven - Luke 7:48
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Blessings In Christ (part VIII) Continue studying through the blessing of Jesus:
38. We become Christ's ambassadors - 2 Corinthians 5:20
39. We are blessed with spiritual blessings - Ephesians 1:3
40. Our every need will be supplied by God - Philippians 4:19
41. Given an inner strength to accomplish necessary things - Philippians 4:13
42. A good work has been done in us - Philippians 1:6
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Hurtful Examples and Lies
For some, hurtful things your father did and said to you over the years
Others were wounded more by your father’s absence
The question is whether or not you will allow it to hinder you or help you.
Unresolved anger becomes a bitter cancer that poisons hearts.
We are to forgive like God forgives, completely - Ephesians 4:32
Unresolved bitterness is sin and it will distort your own fathering.
If you believe the same lies your father believed, you will also be bound by them.
For every lie that says you need to sin, lust, or feed an addiction to survive or be happy,
God says, "I will take care of you, will never leave you, and will meet all your needs" - 1 Corinthians 10:13; Philippians 4:19
Truth doesn’t set you free if you only hear it and mentally understand it.
Ask God to reveal the lies you have believed in the past and help you replace each one with His truth.
Consider memorizing verses that stand against any lies you have believed.
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A Man Accepts His Masculinity
THe key ingredient masculinity is actually strength
Like Jesus, every man also needs to be developing moral, mental, social, and spiritual strength.
If men do not develop a sense of their own fortitude, they will never attempt hard things.
Opposite of masculinity is to be feminine, which means soft, pretty, and delicate.
Culture has spent decades telling women to “Rise up and be strong!” and telling men to “Sit down and be quiet!”
King David charged his son Solomon, “Be strong, therefore, and show yourself a man” - 1 Kings 2:2
If you are going to obey Him and be faithful to Him until the end, you must act like a man, embrace your masculinity, and hear His command to “Be strong!” - Joshua 1:9
When the enemy is attacking, you must keep up your resistance — “and having done everything, to stand firm” - Ephesians 6:13
“Act like men, be strong!” - 1 Corinthians 16:13
This is our responsibility as men. This is required of us to be faithful.
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Men Leave Childhood Behind
We need to choose to let go of childishness and foolishness
When I became a man, I did away with childish things - 1 Corinthians 13:11
Clinging to childhood while growing into manhood is like trying to run in opposite directions at the same time aka the “Peter Pan Syndrome”
Teen years are often wasted and fathers have become silent.
Rather than initiating serious conversations with wiser men, they goof off with fools in sports bars
Too many men want the freedoms, rewards, and privileges of manhood but only the responsibilities of boyhood
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ - Ephesians 4:14-15
Do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature - 1 Corinthians 14:20
The noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands - Isaiah 32:8
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Men Leave Childhood Behind
We need to choose to let go of childishness and foolishness
When I became a man, I did away with childish things - 1 Corinthians 13:11
Clinging to childhood while growing into manhood is like trying to run in opposite directions at the same time aka the “Peter Pan Syndrome”
Teen years are often wasted and fathers have become silent.
Rather than initiating serious conversations with wiser men, they goof off with fools in sports bars
Too many men want the freedoms, rewards, and privileges of manhood but only the responsibilities of boyhood
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ - Ephesians 4:14-15
Do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature - 1 Corinthians 14:20
The noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands - Isaiah 32:8
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Resolve to Lead Your Family
The greater responsibility to raise your children is yours.
When you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up - Deuteronomy 6:7
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord - Ephesians 6:4
When the dad leads, kids are up to twenty times more likely to stay in church long-term than when moms are the spiritual leaders at home
When the father gets immediately involved, leading with purpose, dealing with problems, his own personal walk with God
Trusting Him makes you wise. Relying on Him keeps you strong. Following Him shows you how to lead.
Seeking God in a very deliberate, devoted manner will impact everything else in your world.
Focus on your relationship with God, you will find it more natural to want your wife and children to be enjoying the same thing
Jesus uses the Word of God to wash us and bloom us into a holy Bride - John 15:3
Leading your family with God’s Word is a key to helping them work through issues, love one another, and grow spiritually.
Devotions together
- Even if it seems awkward or different at first
- Can be as simple as:
- Ggetting together in the same room and talking about how everyone is doing
- Reading a chapter out loud from the Bible
- Followed by a simple prayer asking God to help you apply what you heard
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Holy Matrimony
God alone designed the marvelous mystery of marriage.
To become godly husbands starts with the idea of holiness
God wants our lives to be holy so that they would become more like Him - priceless, pure, and special.
It makes things unique, like no other. It sets them apart. It keeps special things special.
After everything God had done to deliver His people and help them become holy, He hated when they forgot His mercy, rejected His standards, and shamefully lived like the world
They dishonored the surpassing worth of God.
Any sin in us reveals that God is not as holy to us as He should be.
You are to set her apart in your eyes above all the other women on the face of the earth. She became your prized possession for you to cherish, love, and protect for the rest of your life.
God created your marriage to be a living portrait on earth to reveal the loving relationship of Jesus Christ with His Bride, the church - those whom He has declared “holy” unto Him - Ephesians 1:4
Should be like: “Look at my relationship with my wife! This is what the sacrificial, unconditional love of Jesus Christ for His Bride looks like!”
God’s calling for you as a husband was not to marry the woman you love, but to love the woman you married.
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Loss of Heart
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger - Ephesians 6:4
Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart - Colossians 3:21
If we lose their hearts, we lose everything.
Intimacy is tied to feeling emotionally safe around someone.
Devil will begin to fill their minds with accusations against you.
When your children get angry with you, you need to stop what you are doing, get engaged, and help them deal with their anger
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Heart Hindrances (part I)
The following “heart hindrances” that will push your chidren away.
- Your absence - they become sheep without a shepherd.
- You are saying "You’re not important enough for me"
- Your anger
- React in anger, you can thoughtlessly say or do things in the heat of the moment that deeply wound your son or daughter’s spirit long-term
- Love is slow to anger - 1 Corinthians 13:5
- Humble yourself and quickly apologize
- Unjust discipline
- Must explain rules and consequences clearly using God’s Word and authority rather than their opinion - Ephesians 6:1-3
- Ask yourself, “How can I train them without losing their heart?”
- Harsh criticism
- Don’t be sarcastic or belittling
- Kids who have no freedom to fail will tend to rebel
- Lack of compassion
- Mercy warms hearts; carelessness distances them.
- We must provide a listening ear, wise counsel, prayerful support, and a willing hand
- Help them think of you as an oasis
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Heart Hindrances (part I)
The following “heart hindrances” that will push your chidren away.
- Your absence - they become sheep without a shepherd.
- You are saying "You’re not important enough for me"
- Your anger
- React in anger, you can thoughtlessly say or do things in the heat of the moment that deeply wound your son or daughter’s spirit long-term
- Love is slow to anger - 1 Corinthians 13:5
- Humble yourself and quickly apologize
- Unjust discipline
- Must explain rules and consequences clearly using God’s Word and authority rather than their opinion - Ephesians 6:1-3
- Ask yourself, “How can I train them without losing their heart?”
- Harsh criticism
- Don’t be sarcastic or belittling
- Kids who have no freedom to fail will tend to rebel
- Lack of compassion
- Mercy warms hearts; carelessness distances them.
- We must provide a listening ear, wise counsel, prayerful support, and a willing hand
- Help them think of you as an oasis
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Heart Hindrances (part I)
The following “heart hindrances” that will push your chidren away.
- Your absence - they become sheep without a shepherd.
- You are saying "You’re not important enough for me"
- Your anger
- React in anger, you can thoughtlessly say or do things in the heat of the moment that deeply wound your son or daughter’s spirit long-term
- Love is slow to anger - 1 Corinthians 13:5
- Humble yourself and quickly apologize
- Unjust discipline
- Must explain rules and consequences clearly using God’s Word and authority rather than their opinion - Ephesians 6:1-3
- Ask yourself, “How can I train them without losing their heart?”
- Harsh criticism
- Don’t be sarcastic or belittling
- Kids who have no freedom to fail will tend to rebel
- Lack of compassion
- Mercy warms hearts; carelessness distances them.
- We must provide a listening ear, wise counsel, prayerful support, and a willing hand
- Help them think of you as an oasis
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Disciplining Your Children (part I)
A major part of your role as a father is to disciple your kids
Discipling your kids requires discipline on our part
Discipline doesn’t feel good, nor should it - Hebrews 12:11
Discipline should be more on the father’s shoulders than the mother’s because of who we represent.
Loving discipline prepares our kids to respect and obey their heavenly Father
We had earthly fathers to discipline us, for they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good - Hebrews 12:9-10
It is the father’s job is to take the long view, not the short one.
Withheld discipline may seem momentarily pleasant to the child and the parent but it takes no skill or courage to be a passive father
Not disciplining guarantees that uncorrected sin will follow his child into adulthood and follow his family into the coming generations
Its momentary discomfort - knowing that sin will harm a child in far worse ways than even the painful discipline of a loving father.
He who loves him disciplines him promptly - Proverbs 13:24
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it - Proverbs 22:6
IT is a lie from the Enemy to believe that rebelling against and dishonoring authority brings more freedom and peace
Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord - Ephesians 6:4
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Genesis 24 - Search for the Bride of Isaac (part I)
Summary
Abraham's servant went to Nahor to find a wife for Isaac.
Observations
Genesis 24:1 - The Lord blessed him every way
God blessed Abraham, as he promised [Genesis 12:2], more than he could have asked or imagined [Ephesians 3:20] because of his belief that He would be faithful in his promises. In the investment world, it is about making a return on managed risk. Sometimes in Wall Street you can yield a good return with analysis. Other times, no matter what, you can lose large amounts of captial. But with God, you can bank on his promises through faithfulness. There is no guessing and changing out mind, we just need to be faithful.
Genesis 24:4 - Go instead to my homeland
His son was nearing 40 years old and Abraham was old himself. He was looked to pass the torch on the next generation. Abraham again was faced with the challege of age-related life changes [Genesis 21:2]. The easy way to find Isaac a spouse would be to just look around the local area. The rational here might be "well, they do not follow God now but we can convert them later". This idea rarely works out and can cause much harm spiritually. Abraham chose again to be faithfully and to take the path less traveled. That path for his servant was 450 miles away to Nahor.
Genesis 24:8 - But under no circumstances are you to take my son there
Abraham nor his son were going to leave Cannon. There must have been some faithful prayer involved to find a way out of this situation [1 Corinthians 10:13]. How was Abraham going to find a wife for his son in a different land without standing in the way of God's promise? For both of them to go would have been an express of their lack of faith in God's promise. Also, if Isaac went a alone, he may have not returned. If Abrham went a alone, Isaac may have found a wife among the Canaanites while he was gone. The solution was a highly improbable plan (without God) for Abraham was to send his servant to find his wife. This way would be at a high cost to old man Abraham because of amount of work extra work he would need to do to cover while the servant was gone.
Application
I am convicted by the way Abraham chose to approach challenging situations. He did not chose the easy way or the first way that sounded right. He chose to be faithful and had a conviction to allow God's promises to fulfilled in his life. I did not mediate and pray through the challenges set before very often. Many times I just say or do the first things that comes to my mind. Those are often thoughts of the easy way or only way to go about things. I need to think about the bigger picture when making decisions.
Prayer
Praying for heart of disernment and faithfulness in life's challenging situations.
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Love Like a Man
Love your wives like Christ loves the church - Ephesians 5:25-26
God created man to look after his wife, to love her perfectly
Love as Jesus loved!
Want to know how to love?
- Sacrifically - gave up his life
- Selflessly - Did everything his Father sent him to do
- Patiently - Taught flawed people and asked them to follow him
- Forgivingly - He asked his Father to forgive those crucified him
- Generously - Gave us far more than we deserve
Jesus is our perfect example of love in action
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Love Like a Man
Love your wives like Christ loves the church - Ephesians 5:25-26
God created man to look after his wife, to love her perfectly
Love as Jesus loved!
Want to know how to love?
- Sacrifically - gave up his life
- Selflessly - Did everything his Father sent him to do
- Patiently - Taught flawed people and asked them to follow him
- Forgivingly - He asked his Father to forgive those crucified him
- Generously - Gave us far more than we deserve
Jesus is our perfect example of love in action
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First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
First Thing First
Adding or removing optional features of the church does not change the essesnce of its character
A "church" with just good plan/works but no real faith in Jesus Christ, His direction, His protection, etc is not a church at all
Types of diverstity in the church:
- Mistake an accidental feature of the church for an essential one
- Church can treat essential features as optional
- Church may burden itself with many accidental features to make it impossible to love the essential
- Church is so careful not to add accidental features that is can not adapt to changing circumstances
1,3,4 has a form of a church but #2 ceases to be a church
The most basic esssential feature of the church is that it's origin is from God
Ephesians 1:11-18 - God call you to be His holy people
Ephesians 1:22-23 - Church, His body, fullness of him who fill everything in everyway
The church is God's idea, God's choice, and God's act
God is acting, churching (reconciling), "ekklesia" = gathering of people, the world to Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:19
We need to rid ourselves of the view that the church displaces God as the primary actor and replaces him with human actors
If we forget this, we will try "to make it happen" by our own power
Our task is to let ourselves be churched by God
|
The Essential Mission
The New Testament vision of the essential work can be captured: to witness or to manifest what is going on in heaven
So you may declare the praise of him who called you out of darkness - 1 Peter 2:9
Wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities - Ephesians 3:10-11
Even if it must speak as a lone voice to a disobedient people - Isaiah 65:2
People usually form associations to deal with a single challenge
It also well known that associations tend to stray from their founding purposes
Second and third generation leaders often do not share the orginal vision, their work becomes a job rather than a mission
Officers are tempted to place their own interests above the orginal mission
Those interest tend toward unrelated purposes and many times are political in nature creating division among the group, at this point the mission is hijaked
|
The Essential Mission
The New Testament vision of the essential work can be captured: to witness or to manifest what is going on in heaven
So you may declare the praise of him who called you out of darkness - 1 Peter 2:9
Wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities - Ephesians 3:10-11
Even if it must speak as a lone voice to a disobedient people - Isaiah 65:2
People usually form associations to deal with a single challenge
It also well known that associations tend to stray from their founding purposes
Second and third generation leaders often do not share the orginal vision, their work becomes a job rather than a mission
Officers are tempted to place their own interests above the orginal mission
Those interest tend toward unrelated purposes and many times are political in nature creating division among the group, at this point the mission is hijaked
|