Gratitude and ingratitude are based on our focus in life
Negatives - ingratitude
Positives - gratitude
You can tell the size of the person by the size of things it takes to make him angry
Philippians 4:8 - think about these things
Philippians 4:12-13 - secret to being content in any and every situation
Being content is a decision - 10% what happens to us; 90% how we react to the situation
Romans 8:38-39 - nothing can separate us from the love of God
Power of Gratitude - Bon AppetitSatan works to both deceive us and accuse us - People tend to have a deceived or an accused conscience
Too many of us seem to think that God turns away from us when we are doing bad and turns back when we repent
Fathers are much more engaged when their kids are not doing well
God ran to the Lost Son - Luke 15
Gave his only Son when we were not doing well - John 3:16-17
Christ died for the ungodly - Romans 5:6-11
At the point the mind changes - our conscience should be cleared
Sin is serious - that is what the cross is all about
Feel the burden of sin long enough to be convicted and move to repentence
Power of Gratitude - Bon AppetitSatan works to both deceive us and accuse us - People tend to have a deceived or an accused conscience
Too many of us seem to think that God turns away from us when we are doing bad and turns back when we repent
Fathers are much more engaged when their kids are not doing well
God ran to the Lost Son - Luke 15
Gave his only Son when we were not doing well - John 3:16-17
Christ died for the ungodly - Romans 5:6-11
At the point the mind changes - our conscience should be cleared
Sin is serious - that is what the cross is all about
Feel the burden of sin long enough to be convicted and move to repentence
Power of Gratitude - Bon AppetitSatan works to both deceive us and accuse us - People tend to have a deceived or an accused conscience
Too many of us seem to think that God turns away from us when we are doing bad and turns back when we repent
Fathers are much more engaged when their kids are not doing well
God ran to the Lost Son - Luke 15
Gave his only Son when we were not doing well - John 3:16-17
Christ died for the ungodly - Romans 5:6-11
At the point the mind changes - our conscience should be cleared
Sin is serious - that is what the cross is all about
Feel the burden of sin long enough to be convicted and move to repentence
Power of Gratitude - Bon AppetitSatan works to both deceive us and accuse us - People tend to have a deceived or an accused conscience
Too many of us seem to think that God turns away from us when we are doing bad and turns back when we repent
Fathers are much more engaged when their kids are not doing well
God ran to the Lost Son - Luke 15
Gave his only Son when we were not doing well - John 3:16-17
Christ died for the ungodly - Romans 5:6-11
At the point the mind changes - our conscience should be cleared
Sin is serious - that is what the cross is all about
Feel the burden of sin long enough to be convicted and move to repentence
Power of Gratitude - Bon AppetitSatan works to both deceive us and accuse us - People tend to have a deceived or an accused conscience
Too many of us seem to think that God turns away from us when we are doing bad and turns back when we repent
Fathers are much more engaged when their kids are not doing well
God ran to the Lost Son - Luke 15
Gave his only Son when we were not doing well - John 3:16-17
Christ died for the ungodly - Romans 5:6-11
At the point the mind changes - our conscience should be cleared
Sin is serious - that is what the cross is all about
Feel the burden of sin long enough to be convicted and move to repentence
Power of Gratitude - Bon AppetitSatan works to both deceive us and accuse us - People tend to have a deceived or an accused conscience
Too many of us seem to think that God turns away from us when we are doing bad and turns back when we repent
Fathers are much more engaged when their kids are not doing well
God ran to the Lost Son - Luke 15
Gave his only Son when we were not doing well - John 3:16-17
Christ died for the ungodly - Romans 5:6-11
At the point the mind changes - our conscience should be cleared
Sin is serious - that is what the cross is all about
Feel the burden of sin long enough to be convicted and move to repentence
Power of Gratitude - Is your Job Sacred or Secular?A large percentage of our waking hours on the job
God expects even a slave to be happy with their lot in life - Colossians 3:22
Whatever you do, do it in the Lord's name - Colossians 3:17
Offer your bodies as living sacrifices - Romans 12:1
Full-time ministry
We are full-time if we are disciples
Others have gifts not in "up-front" roles
No child of the King of Kings should feel like a second-class citizen
Hospital worker = God's minister to the medical professionals
Factory worker = sweating it out for the Lord
Programming = designing and mental stress for the Lord
The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
"This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
Who can be against us? No one
Who will bring any charge against us? No one
Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
Romans 3:11 - there is no one that seeks God
John 6:44 - No one can come to me unless the Father draws him
Studying the Bible is simply allowing ourselves to be sought by God
If it was our own effort - baptism may seem like the end of the quest
We need to active learners
When we were young, we understood obligation - "I gotta go to school"
After high school, we may go to college and narrow our focus of learning and become passive learners
We listen to the voice of our experience as the final authority
We learn mostly from our mistakes
We learn when we are forced to out of control - crisis, illness, death
Treasures are for those who will continue to seek forever; not for those who want tips and tricks for being "effective"
If there were ever a moment to be a passive learner, it would be when you walk with Jesus
Luke 11:1-13 - where would we be if the disciples had not asked about praying to the Father? - not know how to address the Father
We need to take responsibilty to get deep and ask questions
Satan invented the mind-set: Sin now and pay later
God is not short-term but long-term
Pay up front and gain big dividends later
Righteousness is an investment of life
Without perseverance through hard time times we will not grow - Romans 5:1-5, James 1:2-4, Hebrews 12:5-14
God does not "zap" change into you:
Change requires:
Practice until our character is different - Hebrews 5:14
Patience if did not get it right for ___ time
Trust God that this change is for our own good - Romans 8:28
We always know what we want, God always knows what we need
We love labor saving devices - medicine, cars, wash machine, lawn mower, tools
Not bad for life, but there is button pushing when it comes to overcoming our sinful nature
Deny self daily
Repentance - when we don't respond to God's grace - God will find a way to help us to repent
Through kindness - Romans 2:4
Through discipline - Hebrews 12:5-11
Persevering though suffering - James 1:2-4
Greater the gain in spirituality, the larger the price tag
God is determined to raise us up to maturity, despite our wailing and weeping through the rod of discipline
Sooner we cooperate, the sooner our trials may end
Do you want Joy? > Become spiritually mature
Do you want to mature? > Pray for God to help (suffering will most likely be involved)
Reject the temptation to desire the easy way
That way will lead to death - Proverbs 14:12
God's glory = the expression of his goodness and all his other eternal qualities
Through history, God has revealed his glory
God's glory is best seen in Jesus Christ
All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23
I have created them to bring me glory - Isaiah 43:7
Jesus brought glory to God by doing everthing he was told to do by God - John 17:4
We bring God glory by worshiping him - Use your body to the glory of God - Romans 6:13
We bring God glory by loving other believers - Accept others as Christ accepted you - Romans 15:7
We bring God glory by becoming like Christ - We become more and more like him, reflect his glory even more - 2 Corthinians 3:18
We bring God glory by serving others our gifts - Do it all with all that God has given you - 1 Peter 4:10-11
We bring God glory by telling others about him - Bringing people to Christ through his grace, God receives more and more glory - 2 Corinthians 4:14
Giving glory to God will require us to change our priorities, schedule, relationships, and everything else
God's glory = the expression of his goodness and all his other eternal qualities
Through history, God has revealed his glory
God's glory is best seen in Jesus Christ
All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23
I have created them to bring me glory - Isaiah 43:7
Jesus brought glory to God by doing everthing he was told to do by God - John 17:4
We bring God glory by worshiping him - Use your body to the glory of God - Romans 6:13
We bring God glory by loving other believers - Accept others as Christ accepted you - Romans 15:7
We bring God glory by becoming like Christ - We become more and more like him, reflect his glory even more - 2 Corthinians 3:18
We bring God glory by serving others our gifts - Do it all with all that God has given you - 1 Peter 4:10-11
We bring God glory by telling others about him - Bringing people to Christ through his grace, God receives more and more glory - 2 Corinthians 4:14
Giving glory to God will require us to change our priorities, schedule, relationships, and everything else
God's glory = the expression of his goodness and all his other eternal qualities
Through history, God has revealed his glory
God's glory is best seen in Jesus Christ
All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23
I have created them to bring me glory - Isaiah 43:7
Jesus brought glory to God by doing everthing he was told to do by God - John 17:4
We bring God glory by worshiping him - Use your body to the glory of God - Romans 6:13
We bring God glory by loving other believers - Accept others as Christ accepted you - Romans 15:7
We bring God glory by becoming like Christ - We become more and more like him, reflect his glory even more - 2 Corthinians 3:18
We bring God glory by serving others our gifts - Do it all with all that God has given you - 1 Peter 4:10-11
We bring God glory by telling others about him - Bringing people to Christ through his grace, God receives more and more glory - 2 Corinthians 4:14
Giving glory to God will require us to change our priorities, schedule, relationships, and everything else
Three barriers to 100% surrender are: fear, pride, and confusion
Can we trust God?
Trust is essential, you can not surrender to God if you do not trust him
Fear keeps us from surrendering - God is love and love us deeply and casts out all fear
God is willing to have his son die for us - Romans 5:8
Admitting our limitations
The oldest temptation is want to be like God - Genesis 3:5
That desire wants complete control
We want to be taller, smarter, anger, stronger, more talent, more beauty, and wealthier.
When faced with our limitations we react with irritation, anger, and resentment.
Inheritance - since yo are his child, everything he has belongs to you (Galatians 4:7)
Will be with God forever - 1 Thesslonians 5:10
Be like Christ - 1 John 3:2
Freed from all pain, death, and suffering - Revelation 21:4
Rewarded and reassigned positions of service
Share in Christ's glory - Romans 8:17
We all need a family to identify with - the Church - Satan is always on the prawl
Purpose Driven Life - Restoring Broken FellowshipRelationships are always worth restoring
God has given us the ministry of restoring
God gave everything (his son) for restoring relationships
Does not mean avoiding conflict or appeasement
Talk to God before talking to the person
God may change your heart or their hear - James 4:1-2
Tell God your frustrations
Most conflict is rooted in unmet needs; some needs can only be meet by God
Always take the initiative
God expects you to make the first move - Matthew 5:23-24
Abandon your offering at the alter and go make things right first
Acting quickly reduces the spiritual damage
Bitterness is only hurting yourself
Sympathize with their feelings
Use your ears more than your mouth - Philippians 2:4
Focus on feelings and not facts
Start with sympathy, not solutions
Confess your part of the conflict
Ask "Am I the problem?" - Matthew 7:5
The way you handle a conflict creates a bigger hurt
Attack the problem, not the person
How you say it is important as what you say
Cold War - country decided on weapons that should never be used
Cooperate as much as possible - Romans 12:18
Sometime it cost our pride, self-centerness
Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution
Reconciliation focuses on the relationship
Takes a lot of effort to restore a relationship
God uses problems to draw you closer to himself
Lord is close to the brokenhearted - Psalms 34:18
God had the ability to kept:
Joesph out of jail
Daniel out the lion's den
Paul from being shipwrecked 3 times
Young Hebrew from being thrown in a furance
... but he didn't
Problem force us to look to God and depend on him
None of your problem could happen without God's permission
Romans 8:28-29 (NLT)
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters.
"God causes everything" - God is behind everything
"to work together" - work together as part of God's plan
"for the good" - the end result is for our hearts to be more like Jesus
"of those who love God" - those who are obedient
"according to his purpose" - the purpose is "become like his Son"
God uses problems to draw you closer to himself
Lord is close to the brokenhearted - Psalms 34:18
God had the ability to kept:
Joesph out of jail
Daniel out the lion's den
Paul from being shipwrecked 3 times
Young Hebrew from being thrown in a furance
... but he didn't
Problem force us to look to God and depend on him
None of your problem could happen without God's permission
Romans 8:28-29 (NLT)
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters.
"God causes everything" - God is behind everything
"to work together" - work together as part of God's plan
"for the good" - the end result is for our hearts to be more like Jesus
"of those who love God" - those who are obedient
"according to his purpose" - the purpose is "become like his Son"
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
God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well - Romans 12:6
Can not say, "I don't have any abilities to offer"
Average person possesses from 500 to 700 different skills and abilities
Brain can store 100 trillion facts
Can handle 15,000 decisions a second
Every ability can be used for God's glory
Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God - 1 Corinthians 10:31
Remember the Lord your God; he give the ability to produce wealth - Deuteronomy 8:18
What I am able to do, God wants me to do
God equips you will you need for doing well - Hebrews 13:21
Seriously examine what you are good at doing and do it
God will never ask to something you have no talent for
Abilities are not just to make a living, but also for service for him
Be sure to use our abilities to help each other - 1 Peter 4:10
Take a long honest look at what you are good at
Try to have a sane estimate of your abilities - Romans 12:3
Make a list and ask other people
Experiment with different areas of service
When it doesn't not work out, call it an "experiment", not a failure
Consider your heart and personality Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given - Galatians 6:4
Examine your experiences and extract lessons you have learned
Remember today what you have learned about the Lord - Deuteronomy 11:2
Forgotten experiences are worthless
Paul - "Were all your experiences wasted? I hope not! - Galatians 3:4
Were rarely see God's good purpose - John 13:7
Run with patience the particular race that God has set before us - Hebrews 12:1
Satan can steal our joy by:
Compare your ministry with others - others doing a better job
Conform your ministry to the expectations of others - you are doing better and you full of pride
Avoid comparisons, resist exaggerations, and seek only God's commendations - 1 Corinthians 10:12-18
Servants think about their work, not what others are doing
They do not compare, criticize, or compete with other servants; same goal and same team
When you are busy serving, you don't have time to be critical
Our job is not to evaluate - Lord will determine the sucessfulness of his servant - Romans 14:4
If you serve like Jesus, expect to be criticized
The service of the sinful (pouring perfume on Jesus) was though to be a waste but just though of it as significant - Matthew 26:10
Servants base their identity in Christ
They are loved and accepted by grace, servants don't have to prove their worth
Jesus washing feet - Jesus understood his worth and the task did not threathen his self-image - John 13:3-4
Insecure people are always worrying about how they appear; want others to serve them instead
Only God's approval counts - 2 Corinthians 10:18
Servants think of ministry as an opportunity, not an obligation
Serve the Lord with gladness - Psalms 100:2
The Father rewards anyone who serves him - John 12:26
He will not forget how hard you have worked - Hebrews 6:10
The only really happy people are those who have learned to serve
If people see your strengths but not your weakness, they can not relate
Strengths: Nice that he can do that but I can not
Weaknesses: I am not sure how he can do that but if he can then I can with God's power
Decide wheather you want to impress people or influence people
Glory in your weakness
When Satan points out your weakness, agree with him and praise Jesus - 2 Corinthians 12:5
Jesus understans our weakness - Hebrews 4:1
The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness - Romans 8:26
"If you want to be blessed by God and use you greatly, you must learn to walk with a limp" - Joacb
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
Three verse opened a whole new way of understanding Jesus:
Jesus praying: Abba, Father, everything is possible for you - Mark 14:36
We can cry Abba, Father - Romans 8:15
Because you are sons we can cry Father - Galatians 4:6
Prior to Jesus it was never used as a reference to God; even scandalous if used
Simular to "da-da" in English
Before Jesus, there was no one who could tell us what he could about God
If you are not aware of your weaknesses, then God can not make you strong
Prayer is simply the key that unlocks the door to God's free reign in our lives
He reigns whether we like it or not, but he will not take away our free will - we have to surrender it
Getting rid of weakness is not the point - it to humbly submit yourself to God, depend on his power, and to rely on his strength
If you are not aware of your weaknesses, then God can not make you strong
Prayer is simply the key that unlocks the door to God's free reign in our lives
He reigns whether we like it or not, but he will not take away our free will - we have to surrender it
Getting rid of weakness is not the point - it to humbly submit yourself to God, depend on his power, and to rely on his strength
Teach Us To Pray - Friends and Loved OnesTo intercede or pray on someone else's behalf is a privilege
Our prayers are sacrifices which are pleasing to him - Hebrews 13:15
Paul: I want you to know how much I am struggling for you - Colossians 2:1
Who do you struggle for? How about people you have never meet?
Far be it that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray to you - Samuel to King Saul - 1 Samuel 12:23
Jesus intercedes for us - Romans 8:34
Like a good friend, he adds or subtracts from what you are missing or need
Jesus makes us complete in God's sight
Paul tells us that we don't know how to pray like we should - Romans 8
Part of the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to help us in this area - Romans 8:26-27
God will answer this prayer
We have a tendency to become distracted - help me to be focused
Do not have because we have not asked - James 4:2
Don't forget to pray about praying
Paul tells us that we don't know how to pray like we should - Romans 8
Part of the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to help us in this area - Romans 8:26-27
God will answer this prayer
We have a tendency to become distracted - help me to be focused
Do not have because we have not asked - James 4:2
Don't forget to pray about praying
God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives
He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?
In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38
The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met
What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?
God wants to forgive
God has spent all of his time since man's fall working out our forgiveness - it cost him dearly
God's nature is to forgive
If God kept a record of sins, who could stand? - Psalms 130:3-4
Psalms 103:
v3 - He forgives all
v13-14 - He is compassionate and gracious
v8 - He is slow to anger
v9 - He doesn't hang on to his anger forever
v10 - He does not treat us as our sins deserve
God doesn't need forgiveness
He commited no sin - 1 Peter 2:22
We are the ones who sinned - Romans 3:23
The most foolish thing in the world is to have this attitude toward God
How we blend conviction with an equally deep level of acceptance?
We need to understand that some convictions can be disputable matters
Paul does not get into a discussion what is right and wrong
Accept those whose faith is weak - Romans 14:1
Accept one another in order to bring praise to God - Romans 15:7
Example: It is OK to treat one day more special to worship God than another day - Romans 14:5-6
Even if the conviction is misguided - we sin if go against it
Great questions in these verses:
Who are you to judge some else's servant? - Romans 14:4
Why do you judge your brother? - Romans 14:10
Why do you look down on your brother? - Romans 14:10
On the day of judgment:
No "I'm right" or "Your wrong" on that day
Rightness will be perfectly obvious to all
Therefore lut us stop passing judgment on one another - Romans 14:13
Wild at Heart - Healing the wound (part 4)Forgiveness is a choice
Do not wait for the feeling of wanting to forgive because it will not come
Not “It didn’t matter” and “I probably reserved it”
“It was wrong, it mattered, and I release you”
Masculinity is passed from father to son
Adam, Abraham, Jacob, David leaned who they were out of their intimacy with God the Father
New heart and put a new spirit in you - Romans 8:1
What God sees when he see you is the real you, the true you, the man he had in mind when he made you
You must ask God what he thinks of you, and you must stay with the question until you have an answer
Last thing the Evil One wants you to
I send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss - 1 Corinthians 16:20
Greet one another with a holy kiss - 2 Corinthians 13:12
Greet one another with a kiss of love - 1 Peter 5:14
Although somewhat strange to kiss in the US (prefer a hand shake or hug), the emphasis is the heart behind it
Need to show each other they are welcomed, loved and accepted - not just saying "I accept you" roboticly
Challenge for all of us is to really communicate the heart of love and acceptance
Identify 2 or 3 people that you have a hard time "accepting"
Will you be comfortable saying "God judge me just as I judge them"?
Noutheteo is used frequently involving one another
I did not cease to admonish each one with tears - Acts 20:31
We proclaim Him, admonishing every man - Colossians 1:28
Admonish one another - not just something for leaders - Romans 15:14
Admonish the unruly - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
More often admonish is the word couch
Not uncommon to pay to have a life couch
We should have a # of relationships with people who know us and can help
We must also realize that we can give others couching as well
Kingdom First - True CompanionsScriptures repeatedly draw a parallel between marriage and our relationship with God - Matthew 5:31-32
Jesus recalled God plan for marriage from the beginning and used word 'united' - Matthew 19:5
Romans 6:5 - we are united with Christ through his death and resurrection
We are all one in Christ - Galatians 3:28
Unfaithfulness in marriage is also unfaithfulness to God
Anyone who does not love his brother, cannot love God - 1 John 4:20
Our faithfulness to him is mirrored in our faithfulness to our husband or wife
Jesus is not interested in our obedience outwardly without having our hearts set on heaven
All the ancient were longing for a better country
Living a Christian life is more than living up to a standard of behavior
Meant to ask deeper questions of motivation and heart with an understanding a heart properly movtivated - actions will follow
We should develop a heart that does not store treasures in heaven
Jesus makes a case that does not make sense to store up treasures here because they will not even last here - Matthew 6:19-21
No moth, no rust, no thief, not even Satan himself can diminish our treasure in heaven
It is an incredible freeing feeling to let go of the "treasure" here on earth
Will you miss services to get overtime in?
Do your children see a joyful parent excited about the kingdom of God?
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"
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"
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"
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"
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"
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"
1. Conflict happens - normal part of a relationship
Its ultimate effect depends on our response to it
Are we sharping each other or making each other more dull - Proverbs 27:17
2. The goal is to agree
3. We may need help from a third party
David and the jealous king Saul - 1 Samuel 24:8-22
David's conduct with Saul was above reproach; He did everything he could to work things out
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all people - Romans 12:18
Peace requires both parties to desire it
There are things that depend on us and others that are out of our conotrl
Focus on belonging and being devoted - Romans 12:5
All belong to one another - members of one another
These who have been united with Christ - this is your spiritual family
Be a giver, not just a taker
Always need great listeners (not just being quite) - ask questions, draw people out
Do your part to make the group warm, loving, supportive, open, etc
"I'm not getting much out from this group" - check your heart and actions
Appreciate, affirm, and encourage the different gifts - 1 Corinthians 12
God has given our brothers and sisters for our enjoyment
Give special focus to those who may feel marginalized by illness/disability
To Live is Christ - Enemies of the CrossThe acceptance of Jesus leads to joy and not to be naive - Philippians 3:17-21
Be thankful but still have our eyes wide open
The cross stands as a constant reminder of the battle between good and evil
Jesus did not just hang out at the cross - HE DIED there because of his enemies
And the war goes on
To act as though we do could do enough to earn salvation - undermines Jesus' sacrifice
To act as though grace is a license for sin - undermines the purpose of the cross - Romans 6:17
Enemies of the cross = people with minds on earthly things
Philippians had a unique blessing of having Roman citizenship outside of Rome
Our real home country is heaven and our loyalty is to the King of Kings
Battle of good and evil within us - Romans 7:20-23
Sinful desires are contrary to the Spirit
They conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want - Galatians 5:17
There is a nagging awareness warning us not to feel our hunger too deeply or it will undo us
We wouldn't want to do anything crazy or desperate
We want what our unmet desire wants but our sinful nature wants what is contrary
We try everything - TV, sex, relationships, drugs, etc - going one to another
We don't know what we want because we're so unacquaninted with our desire
We try to keep a safe distance between our daily lives and our heart's desire - because it causes us too much trouble
Do we really want to open Pandora's box?
Dare we awaken our hears to their true desires?
Is it better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all?
Our dilemma is this: we can't seem to live with desire, and we can't live without it
Battle of good and evil within us - Romans 7:20-23
Sinful desires are contrary to the Spirit
They conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want - Galatians 5:17
There is a nagging awareness warning us not to feel our hunger too deeply or it will undo us
We wouldn't want to do anything crazy or desperate
We want what our unmet desire wants but our sinful nature wants what is contrary
We try everything - TV, sex, relationships, drugs, etc - going one to another
We don't know what we want because we're so unacquaninted with our desire
We try to keep a safe distance between our daily lives and our heart's desire - because it causes us too much trouble
Do we really want to open Pandora's box?
Dare we awaken our hears to their true desires?
Is it better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all?
Our dilemma is this: we can't seem to live with desire, and we can't live without it
Battle of good and evil within us - Romans 7:20-23
Sinful desires are contrary to the Spirit
They conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want - Galatians 5:17
There is a nagging awareness warning us not to feel our hunger too deeply or it will undo us
We wouldn't want to do anything crazy or desperate
We want what our unmet desire wants but our sinful nature wants what is contrary
We try everything - TV, sex, relationships, drugs, etc - going one to another
We don't know what we want because we're so unacquaninted with our desire
We try to keep a safe distance between our daily lives and our heart's desire - because it causes us too much trouble
Do we really want to open Pandora's box?
Dare we awaken our hears to their true desires?
Is it better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all?
Our dilemma is this: we can't seem to live with desire, and we can't live without it
Battle of good and evil within us - Romans 7:20-23
Sinful desires are contrary to the Spirit
They conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want - Galatians 5:17
There is a nagging awareness warning us not to feel our hunger too deeply or it will undo us
We wouldn't want to do anything crazy or desperate
We want what our unmet desire wants but our sinful nature wants what is contrary
We try everything - TV, sex, relationships, drugs, etc - going one to another
We don't know what we want because we're so unacquaninted with our desire
We try to keep a safe distance between our daily lives and our heart's desire - because it causes us too much trouble
Do we really want to open Pandora's box?
Dare we awaken our hears to their true desires?
Is it better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all?
Our dilemma is this: we can't seem to live with desire, and we can't live without it
Spring reminds us that life can return to the dead
The return of spring brings such a relief and joy and anticipation
Might spring and summer may be nature way of expressing Jesus was trying to tell us?
Nature God's word to us also - Romans 1:20
Our ideas of heaven are sometimes not very desirable
Many Christians have some idea that heaven is an never-ending church service
And then our hearts sink
Forever and ever? That is it?
We sigh and feel guilty that is we are not more "spritual"
We then turn to the present to find what life we can
We can only hope for what we desire
Scripture tells us that God has set eternity in our hearts - Ecclesiastes 3:11
Where is out hearts? In our desires.
The kingdom of God brings restoration
Life is resotred to what it was meant to be
Eden was exactly as God meant for it to be
Jesus came to make all things new - Revelation 21:5
He does not say he is make all new things, rather, the things that been broken will be restored
Not new glass or crutches but new eyes and legs
Jesus called himself the Son of man to state clearly that he was what man was suppose to be
What happens to him when he dies? He is resurrected as himself, not some else - only healed and very much alive
Creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed - Romans 8:19
The kingdom of God prepared for you since the creation of the world - Matthew 25:31-34
He will put the faithful and wise servant in charge of all his possessions - Matthew 24:47
They will reign forever and ever - Revelation 22:5
We will take the position for which we have uniquely made and will rule with him
Much of the activity of God in our lives brings us to the place where we can be entrusted
To each their own
Each person will live out the passion of their heart - given by God
The kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it - Revelation 21:24
Hard to believe that we can add anything to the splendor of God
That is exactly what we are designed for and what our future involves
Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 3)Pleasure is often more about drugging ourselves that it is about enjoying ourselves
Avoiding the ache is always worse in the end than the ache itself
We want to predict what the Lord is going to do so that it does not hurt so bad when it happens
Whole creation has been groaning right up til the present time yet if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently - Romans 8:22-25
We live in hope and he says hoping is waiting and groaning
Ask yourself: What am I waiting for? Is there anything I desire that I am doing nothing to secure?
To wait is to learn the spiritual grace of detachment - the freedom of desire
Not the absence of desire but desire at rest
I have still and quieted my soul - Psalms 131:2
Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 3)Pleasure is often more about drugging ourselves that it is about enjoying ourselves
Avoiding the ache is always worse in the end than the ache itself
We want to predict what the Lord is going to do so that it does not hurt so bad when it happens
Whole creation has been groaning right up til the present time yet if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently - Romans 8:22-25
We live in hope and he says hoping is waiting and groaning
Ask yourself: What am I waiting for? Is there anything I desire that I am doing nothing to secure?
To wait is to learn the spiritual grace of detachment - the freedom of desire
Not the absence of desire but desire at rest
I have still and quieted my soul - Psalms 131:2
Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 3)Pleasure is often more about drugging ourselves that it is about enjoying ourselves
Avoiding the ache is always worse in the end than the ache itself
We want to predict what the Lord is going to do so that it does not hurt so bad when it happens
Whole creation has been groaning right up til the present time yet if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently - Romans 8:22-25
We live in hope and he says hoping is waiting and groaning
Ask yourself: What am I waiting for? Is there anything I desire that I am doing nothing to secure?
To wait is to learn the spiritual grace of detachment - the freedom of desire
Not the absence of desire but desire at rest
I have still and quieted my soul - Psalms 131:2
Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 3)Pleasure is often more about drugging ourselves that it is about enjoying ourselves
Avoiding the ache is always worse in the end than the ache itself
We want to predict what the Lord is going to do so that it does not hurt so bad when it happens
Whole creation has been groaning right up til the present time yet if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently - Romans 8:22-25
We live in hope and he says hoping is waiting and groaning
Ask yourself: What am I waiting for? Is there anything I desire that I am doing nothing to secure?
To wait is to learn the spiritual grace of detachment - the freedom of desire
Not the absence of desire but desire at rest
When someone gets married, it isn't just a marriage to help them in retirement but their whole lives
I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living - Psalms 27:13
No one who has left everything will fail to receive many times as much in this age, in the age to come, eternal life - Luke 18:29-30
Jesus talks about a life available to us in this age
Godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come - 1 Timothy 4:8
When we hear eternal life, most think a life that waits for in eternity
But eternal means "unending" not "later"
Eternal life can start now
Jesus was raised from the dead, now we also may live new lives - Romans 6:4
Coming fully alive is what he was committed to
What a different it would make if we really knew that our lives and God's glory were bound together
Things would start looking up
Waking Dead - MotivesThose who live from the mind shed few tears
There are the stated reasons for what we do and then there is the real reasons = motives
On the day of judgment, the Lord will expose the motive of men's hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
The Pharisees prayed to impress men with their spirituality and gave to impress with their generosity
God looks at the heart
The law is written on our hearts and consciences - Romans 2:15
It is why it is so important to not to harden our hearts
The heart is where we do our deepest thinking
Jesus knows what the we are thinking in our hearts
Solomon asked for a wise and discerning heart - 1 Kings 3:9
The modern mistake is to think that the mind equals reason and the heart equals emotion
Scripture judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart - Hebrews 4:12
Not the feelings of the heart but the thoughts
It is with your heart you believe and are justified - Romans 10:10
They hear with their ears and understand with their hearts - Matthew 13:!5
The heart is the dwelling place of our true beliefs
It takes courage to love and takes courage to follow Jesus
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid - John 14:27
Courage > Old French cuer > Latin cor = heart
The battle for the heart is going to take all the courage you can muster
Waking Dead - Last AdamPaul refers to Jesus as the Last Adam and the Second Man - 1 Corinthians 15:45-47
Adam and Eve were rulers over all creation and glorious image bearers of God
Their choices would forever shape our lives - chose to disobey the one command they were given
Fruit does not fall far from the tree
Parents often wonder where their toddler learn how to be disobedient
It was taught to them - it is inherent to human nature
Through one man disobedience - many were made sinners - Romans 5:12
A man comes down from heaven, slips into the world unnoticed as:
Neo does in Matrix
Maximus does in Gladiator
Wallance does in Braveheart
Just as Adams' trespass had far reaching effects, Jesus, the Last Adam, effects were much greater - Romans 5:17
Waking Dead - Last AdamPaul refers to Jesus as the Last Adam and the Second Man - 1 Corinthians 15:45-47
Adam and Eve were rulers over all creation and glorious image bearers of God
Their choices would forever shape our lives - chose to disobey the one command they were given
Fruit does not fall far from the tree
Parents often wonder where their toddler learn how to be disobedient
It was taught to them - it is inherent to human nature
Through one man disobedience - many were made sinners - Romans 5:12
A man comes down from heaven, slips into the world unnoticed as:
Neo does in Matrix
Maximus does in Gladiator
Wallance does in Braveheart
Just as Adams' trespass had far reaching effects, Jesus, the Last Adam, effects were much greater - Romans 5:17
Waking Dead - Life to the FullChrist 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 - Glory (part 1)Our destiny is to come fully alive
To explain sin, some have gone to the point of saying "I am just a sinner, saved by grace" or "there sure isn't anything good in me"
But this is unbibical
They point to: "For I know that nothing good lives in me" - Romans 7:18
Notice he says " in my flesh" - there is a difference between the flesh (old heart) and the true you
Yes, we battle sin and crucify the flesh but we choose to live from the new heart
That sinful nature you battle is not who you are
"it is no longer I myself who do it" X 2 - Romans 7:17-18; 20, 22
Paul opens the letter with "Paul, an apostle" not as a sinner
You should shine like stars - Philippians 2:15-16
Let your light shine before men - Matthew 5:16
Shame says - "I am nothing to look at. I am not capable of goodness"
Humility say - "I bear a glory for sure, but it is a reflected glory"
Waking Dead - Glory (part 2)Your story does not begin with sin but with glory
Bible does not start in Genesis 3 but Genesis 1
God is glorious
You are his offspring, his child
You bear his image
When he made all His creation before man he said "it was good"
Only after did he make humans did he say "it is very good" - Genesis 1:31
Your glory is greater than everything else made - oceans, mountains, stars, the universe
Saints in the land are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight - Psalms 16:3
Those he justified, he also glorified - Romans 8:30
The fact that you don't see your good heart and glory is proof has effective the assault has been
Lion King example
It is time for the true king to come back and take over
But Simba does not believe who he is
His father was murdered and the enemy blamed it on him
After years of loosing heart, Simba's father appears to him in a vision: you are more than what you have become
The one who is in you is greater than the one in the world - 1 John 4:4
Remove yourself from distractions - will be able to hear more clearly
We declare the authority of Jesus over our hearts - he made our hearts - Psalms 33:15
He has redeemed our hearts - Romans 2:29
Sometimes he will take us back to a memory, a time and place where a shattering blow was given
Anytime someone says, "I feel like there's this part of me..." we need to listen - somewhere in the heart
Hidden many times because of a false comfort
As we renounce any sin, we also renounce any claim we've given to Satan in our lives
This often comes in the form of "agreements" - Satan has suggested something to us and we have said yes.
"Don't ever trust anyone"
"Your heart is bad, never show it to anyone"
"You are dirty and will never get free"
We command our enemy to flee - James 4:7
As long as we have unhealed places in our hearts, it is next to impossible to live in freedom and victory
No matter how much discipline we apply to it
Our enemy knows them well and trying undermine us and uses it against us with a disabling effect
Submit and resist
Submit ourselves to Christ and resist whatever has come against us or those we love
Their needs to "dailyness" to our walk
1. We have to choose to abide in Christ
Consecrate our whole body:
Body - Romans 12:1
Soul - Luke 10:27
Spirit - 1 Corinthians 6:17
2. Then we need to cleanse our lives with the blood of Christ
Take our place under the headship of Christ
The faith of centurion, he understood authority - Matthew 8:10
Most sins fall under:
Pride - independence from God
Idolatry - Giving our devotion, fear, or any part of our heart to something other than God
We need to ask God to search our hearts so we might confess sin and agreements we have made
God made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of knowledge of the glory of God
We must not cover or obscure the light in any way - Matthew 5:15-16
The Clear Communication (CC - in the formula) must consist of and understanding of:
God's nature
Their sinfulness
Christ's payment
Steps that must be taken to receive forgiveness
The new life he offers
How can someone believe without someone helping - Romans 10:14
Make an honest assessment about your evangelism
Which are you?
High potency, low proximity = remaining isolated from those you need to be with
Low potency, high proximity = just being part of the world
High potency, High proximity, No communication = hoping the gospel will just rub off
Introduction
"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail"
As Christians, we often fail to have a plan for our finances. Prior to doing this study, you may have even thought it unspiritual to spend time focusing on your finances. Hopefully, by now you have developed convictions as to God's plan for your finances. In this study, we will look at the need for us to establish a budget for our spending. A budget is a reasonable written plan for your giving, spending, and saving based on your income. It is a tool to help you to be a good steward of that which God has entrusted to you.
The Need for a Budget
God expects you to know the condition of your flocks and herds (money, possessions, debts) Proverbs 27:23
We must have a plan and commit it to God. Proverbs 16:3, 3:9
Jesus teaches us to know the cost of something before we begin. It is foolish not to budget. Luke 14:28-30
Guidelines
Plan first to give to God.
Plan to live sacrificially, not beyond your means.
Plan to have something to share, to be able to be generous with others.
Plan to save for occasional or emergency expenses (e.g. special contributions, auto repairs, medical expenses, family trips).
Plan to eliminate debt - Romans 13:8
QUESTIONS
Do I have a written budget that I use to plan my giving, spending, and saving?
Do I compare my actual spending to my budget?
Have I adopted a standard of living that enables me to stay out of debt and have enough to be generous with others?
Contagious Christian - Strength of Sacrifice (part III)Third major kind of sacrifice is a sustained, long term godly lifestyle
Spiritual cynicism runs deep in some people - Christians need to watch their life and doctrine closely to win them over
May times these are family member who have seen you go through phases before and think this is just another one
Offer your bodies as living sacrifices by being transformed with the renewing of your mind - Romans 12:1-2
History has seen rush of the Christianity starting blocks only to be on the side lines after a couple of laps
Time shows our faith to be genuine
Like in a marathon, we have to finish the race
We have to outlast other's objections
Are you going to be God's helper that is going to wear down every cynic, scoffer, and doubter in your life?
All three of the major sacrifices must be motivated by love
Love has no one greater than this - that on lay down his life for his friends - John 15:13
Contagious Christian - Strength of Sacrifice (part III)Third major kind of sacrifice is a sustained, long term godly lifestyle
Spiritual cynicism runs deep in some people - Christians need to watch their life and doctrine closely to win them over
May times these are family member who have seen you go through phases before and think this is just another one
Offer your bodies as living sacrifices by being transformed with the renewing of your mind - Romans 12:1-2
History has seen rush of the Christianity starting blocks only to be on the side lines after a couple of laps
Time shows our faith to be genuine
Like in a marathon, we have to finish the race
We have to outlast other's objections
Are you going to be God's helper that is going to wear down every cynic, scoffer, and doubter in your life?
All three of the major sacrifices must be motivated by love
Love has no one greater than this - that on lay down his life for his friends - John 15:13
What kind of justice is there in having Jesus suffer instead of me?
God was not a reluctant bystander
The difference is that God is will and he is taking his own punishment for you
You
Many people are left with the impression that if they go to church or they born into a church they are saved
Not everyone that calls Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom - Matthew 7:21-23
We have got to be crystal clear that a personal response is essential
Do vs Done
The difference between religion and Christianity is Do vs Done
Religion spells DO - as in we try to do something for God's salvation
It is like a salesman that needs to meet a quota but does not know what it is
But we can never do enough and will always fall short - Romans 3:23
Christianity spells DONE
Means that what we could never do for ourselves, Christ has already done
He lived a perfect life we could never live
He willingly died on the cross to pay the penalty we owed
There is much trouble apart from God - people need to understand their lostness
Christ died so we have relationship restored - 1 Peter 3:18
A common response is to go back and think about it for a while
Other times God has prepared their hearts through someone else
We need to give them this freedom
There is much trouble apart from God - people need to understand their lostness
Christ died so we have relationship restored - 1 Peter 3:18
A common response is to go back and think about it for a while
Other times God has prepared their hearts through someone else
We need to give them this freedom
If one wants to enter the All-Universe Hall must meet the following requirements for 5 years
Must play error free ball
Pitchers must strikeout everyone in a no-hitter every time
Must have 1.000 batting average
Each hit must be a home run
Who can do this for a season?
To earn your salvation, you must do something similar - Romans 3:23
One missed law is guilty of breaking all of the laws - James 2:10
We need Jesus' sacrifice to reach God
Without this, there would be nothing else
God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us - Romans 5:8
We first need to clearly teach people why forgiveness is possible
Happens only in the name of Jesus
It is only because God loves us and not because of anything we have done or will do
We must also make it clear that is when one is baptized in the name of Jesus that one is saved - Acts 2:38
As we preach, we must be careful, but not cautious
Be sensitive but not sentimental
We must preach the cross so powerfully that it cuts
No one will ever repent until they are brought to Godly sorrow - 2 Corinthians 7
Mission - First the KingdomNo one is ready to follow Jesus who is not ready to put the kingdom of God first above everything else in his life
Take away the radicalness of the message and you take away the power of the message
Compromise it and you have religion but not the church of Jesus Christ
Every kingdom has a king
God is the king of kings and the lord of lords - 2 Timothy 6:15
Jesus is known as both Lord and Christ, King and Savior - Acts 2:38
We are the servants, subjects, and even slaves of God - Romans 6:22
The centurion understood this authority - Luke 7:8
You will be given all the things you need when you seek first the kingdom - Matthew 6:33
Can you powerfully proclaim this message to others because it is so clearly your conviction? - Colossians 3:1-2
When making decisions, ask what is best for the kingdom.
Every person is either in the darkness or the light. This study will show us that outside of Jesus we are all in the darkness.
Isaiah 59:1-2
What is the consequence of sin? Sin hurts others, hurts ourselves, but ultimately sin hurts and separates us from God.
God is light. As long as the wall of sin remains, we are in the darkness.
In order to have a relationship with God, the barrier of sin must come down.
Romans 3:21-24
We will come back to other ideas in this text later, but focus on v23. Who has sinned?
Use illustrations to show that some are better than others, but all sin and fall short.
Examples: Swimming to Hawaii, graph showing piles of sin.
Who is more lost? There is no “good person” who is without sin.
Mark 7:14-23
Sin is not simply wrong actions, but a problem of the heart.
Who is responsible for our sin? Despite genetics, parenting, peer pressure and socio-economic conditions, we are responsible for our own sin, which comes from our own hearts and makes us unclean.
What is the consequence of being unclean before God?
Every person is either in the darkness or the light. This study will show us that outside of Jesus we are all in the darkness.
Isaiah 59:1-2
What is the consequence of sin? Sin hurts others, hurts ourselves, but ultimately sin hurts and separates us from God.
God is light. As long as the wall of sin remains, we are in the darkness.
In order to have a relationship with God, the barrier of sin must come down.
Romans 3:21-24
We will come back to other ideas in this text later, but focus on v23. Who has sinned?
Use illustrations to show that some are better than others, but all sin and fall short.
Examples: Swimming to Hawaii, graph showing piles of sin.
Who is more lost? There is no “good person” who is without sin.
Mark 7:14-23
Sin is not simply wrong actions, but a problem of the heart.
Who is responsible for our sin? Despite genetics, parenting, peer pressure and socio-economic conditions, we are responsible for our own sin, which comes from our own hearts and makes us unclean.
What is the consequence of being unclean before God?
Every person is either in the darkness or the light. This study will show us that outside of Jesus we are all in the darkness.
Isaiah 59:1-2
What is the consequence of sin? Sin hurts others, hurts ourselves, but ultimately sin hurts and separates us from God.
God is light. As long as the wall of sin remains, we are in the darkness.
In order to have a relationship with God, the barrier of sin must come down.
Romans 3:21-24
We will come back to other ideas in this text later, but focus on v23. Who has sinned?
Use illustrations to show that some are better than others, but all sin and fall short.
Examples: Swimming to Hawaii, graph showing piles of sin.
Who is more lost? There is no “good person” who is without sin.
Mark 7:14-23
Sin is not simply wrong actions, but a problem of the heart.
Who is responsible for our sin? Despite genetics, parenting, peer pressure and socio-economic conditions, we are responsible for our own sin, which comes from our own hearts and makes us unclean.
What is the consequence of being unclean before God?
Every person is either in the darkness or the light. This study will show us that outside of Jesus we are all in the darkness.
Isaiah 59:1-2
What is the consequence of sin? Sin hurts others, hurts ourselves, but ultimately sin hurts and separates us from God.
God is light. As long as the wall of sin remains, we are in the darkness.
In order to have a relationship with God, the barrier of sin must come down.
Romans 3:21-24
We will come back to other ideas in this text later, but focus on v23. Who has sinned?
Use illustrations to show that some are better than others, but all sin and fall short.
Examples: Swimming to Hawaii, graph showing piles of sin.
Who is more lost? There is no “good person” who is without sin.
Mark 7:14-23
Sin is not simply wrong actions, but a problem of the heart.
Who is responsible for our sin? Despite genetics, parenting, peer pressure and socio-economic conditions, we are responsible for our own sin, which comes from our own hearts and makes us unclean.
What is the consequence of being unclean before God?
Sin is the fundamentally “un-God-ward” orientation of our “flesh” or “sinful nature” and finds expression in many different ways. Emphasize “and the like.”
What is the common element in all these things? Self-centeredness.
Be as specific as necessary to explain and share from your own life about the sins listed. How do you see yourself in these verses? What sins have been characteristic of your own sinful nature? (If needed, look at additional Scriptures which catalog sins.)
James 4:17
We are sinful and in need of forgiveness not only as a result of those sins we have committed, but for failing to do the good that we know to do.
Romans 6:15-18
How does sin enslave?
Note that sin is a power that must be defeated as well as specific acts that must be repented of.
Who alone can set us free from sin? (John 8:31-36)
Romans 6:23
What are the eternal consequences of sin?
Why be urgent to learn about receiving the gift of God that comes through Jesus Christ?
Review these verses as honestly as you can to get in touch with the bad news about your own sinfulness. In the next couple of studies, we will look at the good news of God’s solution to our bondage to sin. (Note: In some instances it is important to have the person articulate how he or she was saved or forgiven of sin before examining the Bible’s teaching about salvation.)
Sin is the fundamentally “un-God-ward” orientation of our “flesh” or “sinful nature” and finds expression in many different ways. Emphasize “and the like.”
What is the common element in all these things? Self-centeredness.
Be as specific as necessary to explain and share from your own life about the sins listed. How do you see yourself in these verses? What sins have been characteristic of your own sinful nature? (If needed, look at additional Scriptures which catalog sins.)
James 4:17
We are sinful and in need of forgiveness not only as a result of those sins we have committed, but for failing to do the good that we know to do.
Romans 6:15-18
How does sin enslave?
Note that sin is a power that must be defeated as well as specific acts that must be repented of.
Who alone can set us free from sin? (John 8:31-36)
Romans 6:23
What are the eternal consequences of sin?
Why be urgent to learn about receiving the gift of God that comes through Jesus Christ?
Review these verses as honestly as you can to get in touch with the bad news about your own sinfulness. In the next couple of studies, we will look at the good news of God’s solution to our bondage to sin. (Note: In some instances it is important to have the person articulate how he or she was saved or forgiven of sin before examining the Bible’s teaching about salvation.)
Sin is the fundamentally “un-God-ward” orientation of our “flesh” or “sinful nature” and finds expression in many different ways. Emphasize “and the like.”
What is the common element in all these things? Self-centeredness.
Be as specific as necessary to explain and share from your own life about the sins listed. How do you see yourself in these verses? What sins have been characteristic of your own sinful nature? (If needed, look at additional Scriptures which catalog sins.)
James 4:17
We are sinful and in need of forgiveness not only as a result of those sins we have committed, but for failing to do the good that we know to do.
Romans 6:15-18
How does sin enslave?
Note that sin is a power that must be defeated as well as specific acts that must be repented of.
Who alone can set us free from sin? (John 8:31-36)
Romans 6:23
What are the eternal consequences of sin?
Why be urgent to learn about receiving the gift of God that comes through Jesus Christ?
Review these verses as honestly as you can to get in touch with the bad news about your own sinfulness. In the next couple of studies, we will look at the good news of God’s solution to our bondage to sin. (Note: In some instances it is important to have the person articulate how he or she was saved or forgiven of sin before examining the Bible’s teaching about salvation.)
Sin is the fundamentally “un-God-ward” orientation of our “flesh” or “sinful nature” and finds expression in many different ways. Emphasize “and the like.”
What is the common element in all these things? Self-centeredness.
Be as specific as necessary to explain and share from your own life about the sins listed. How do you see yourself in these verses? What sins have been characteristic of your own sinful nature? (If needed, look at additional Scriptures which catalog sins.)
James 4:17
We are sinful and in need of forgiveness not only as a result of those sins we have committed, but for failing to do the good that we know to do.
Romans 6:15-18
How does sin enslave?
Note that sin is a power that must be defeated as well as specific acts that must be repented of.
Who alone can set us free from sin? (John 8:31-36)
Romans 6:23
What are the eternal consequences of sin?
Why be urgent to learn about receiving the gift of God that comes through Jesus Christ?
Review these verses as honestly as you can to get in touch with the bad news about your own sinfulness. In the next couple of studies, we will look at the good news of God’s solution to our bondage to sin. (Note: In some instances it is important to have the person articulate how he or she was saved or forgiven of sin before examining the Bible’s teaching about salvation.)
Sin is the fundamentally “un-God-ward” orientation of our “flesh” or “sinful nature” and finds expression in many different ways. Emphasize “and the like.”
What is the common element in all these things? Self-centeredness.
Be as specific as necessary to explain and share from your own life about the sins listed. How do you see yourself in these verses? What sins have been characteristic of your own sinful nature? (If needed, look at additional Scriptures which catalog sins.)
James 4:17
We are sinful and in need of forgiveness not only as a result of those sins we have committed, but for failing to do the good that we know to do.
Romans 6:15-18
How does sin enslave?
Note that sin is a power that must be defeated as well as specific acts that must be repented of.
Who alone can set us free from sin? (John 8:31-36)
Romans 6:23
What are the eternal consequences of sin?
Why be urgent to learn about receiving the gift of God that comes through Jesus Christ?
Review these verses as honestly as you can to get in touch with the bad news about your own sinfulness. In the next couple of studies, we will look at the good news of God’s solution to our bondage to sin. (Note: In some instances it is important to have the person articulate how he or she was saved or forgiven of sin before examining the Bible’s teaching about salvation.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
Question: What do you think the heart of what Jesus is saying in these scriptures?
Question: Biblically speaking, because someone goes to church does that make them a Christian? Are they a Christian because they are a good person? What if they know a lot about the Bible, does that make them a Christian?
That means you are saying that the majority of people in the world are lost. How does that make you feel?
Make God feel said but God has a plan for them - 1 Timothy 2:1-6
Do you believe that Jesus was the Son of God, died for your sins and rose on the 3rd day?
Acts 2:22-24
v22 - The miracles Jesus did proves he was God's son
v23 - He died on the cross for your sin
v24 - God raised him from the dead
What is your good confession?
Romans 10:9-10
Confess with your mouth (acknowledging God and everyone around you that you nor anything else will be the Lord of your life,expect Jesus)
It is not the confession that justifies you, it is your heart that God is looking at.
Who will baptize you?
Who would you like to be there?
Let's meet 30 early so we can pray together
Question: What do you think the heart of what Jesus is saying in these scriptures?
Question: Biblically speaking, because someone goes to church does that make them a Christian? Are they a Christian because they are a good person? What if they know a lot about the Bible, does that make them a Christian?
That means you are saying that the majority of people in the world are lost. How does that make you feel?
Make God feel said but God has a plan for them - 1 Timothy 2:1-6
Do you believe that Jesus was the Son of God, died for your sins and rose on the 3rd day?
Acts 2:22-24
v22 - The miracles Jesus did proves he was God's son
v23 - He died on the cross for your sin
v24 - God raised him from the dead
What is your good confession?
Romans 10:9-10
Confess with your mouth (acknowledging God and everyone around you that you nor anything else will be the Lord of your life,expect Jesus)
It is not the confession that justifies you, it is your heart that God is looking at.
Who will baptize you?
Who would you like to be there?
Let's meet 30 early so we can pray together
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
Abraham believed God when it looked like he and Sarah could not have children
He did not waver in his faith - vs. 20
He was fully persuaded that God had the power to do anything - vs 21
Where does your righteousness come from?
Personal experiences?
Tradition (“we always do it this way”)?
Goals that are easy to achieve?
What situations in your life could "credited as righteousness” because of your faith that it would happen?
The Apostle Paul possessed a firm belief that he had been sent by the Lord Jesus into the world for the specific purpose of bringing the lost to salvation.
1. He believed that he was on a Heavenly mission in the Lord’s behalf
2 Corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore Christ's ambassadors,
Timothy 2:6-7 - Pointed out those who have wandered away
John 17:18 - As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.
2. He believed that the purpose of this Heavenly mission was to bring the lost to salvation.
Romans 1:14-16 - Was eager to preach the gospel
2 Corinthians 5:18-20 - Preached the ministry of reconciliation
The Apostle Paul possessed a firm belief that he had been sent by the Lord Jesus into the world for the specific purpose of bringing the lost to salvation.
1. He believed that he was on a Heavenly mission in the Lord’s behalf
2 Corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore Christ's ambassadors,
Timothy 2:6-7 - Pointed out those who have wandered away
John 17:18 - As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.
2. He believed that the purpose of this Heavenly mission was to bring the lost to salvation.
Romans 1:14-16 - Was eager to preach the gospel
2 Corinthians 5:18-20 - Preached the ministry of reconciliation
The Apostle Paul possessed a firm belief that he had been sent by the Lord Jesus into the world for the specific purpose of bringing the lost to salvation.
1. He believed that he was on a Heavenly mission in the Lord’s behalf
2 Corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore Christ's ambassadors,
Timothy 2:6-7 - Pointed out those who have wandered away
John 17:18 - As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.
2. He believed that the purpose of this Heavenly mission was to bring the lost to salvation.
Romans 1:14-16 - Was eager to preach the gospel
2 Corinthians 5:18-20 - Preached the ministry of reconciliation
With you there is forgiveness, therefore you are feared - Psalms 130:4
Neither awe nor gratitude alone can represent adequately show the meaning of the fear of the Lord
At the same time:
Unapproachable light - 1 Timothy 1:17
Abba, father - Romans 8:15
Three most profound words in the Bible: God is love - 1 John 4:8
More than God is loving, he is love
This is love: He sent his Son as a atoning sacrifice - 1 John 4:9-10
God showed his love by sending His Son.
Fearing God - Turning Aside WrathIt 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 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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 - Fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen
Romans 8:18 - Present sufferings cannot even be compared to the glory that will be revealed to us
Philippians 2:4 - Should be concerned not only about your own interests
The physical is temporary; the spiritual is eternal.
More obvious does not mean more real.
The eternal is superior to the temporary.
Romans 8:17 - We suffer with him so we may also be glorified with him
Hebrews 10:32-34 - You knew that you certainly had a better and lasting possession
Isaiah 49:15-16 - Even if mothers were to forget, I could never forget you
Jeremiah 29:11 - I have plans to give you a future filled with hope
Romans 8:28 - In all things God works for the good of those who love him
This one is for the days when life seems most impossible.
Thirty minutes of all-out faith can change your mind about a whole day.
Romans 4:18-21 - Abraham did not waver through unbelief
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
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
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
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
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
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
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
God (part I)Though it sounds so simple, understanding the true nature of God can be very challenging. Many of us were raised with false perceptions of God – inappropriate and incomplete. Unfortunately, those views caused us to act in certain ways, most of which were ungodly. In this study we will learn a few of the problems connected with false views about God and how to make sure we know the real God.
God has been misrepresented
Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly
We were led down a wrong path
John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily
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.
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
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
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
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
Grace (part II)Grace continues to be yours after your baptism
Romans 5:9-11 - If God showed us patience while enemies, how much more now as friends?
2 Peter 3:17-18 - You are now in a secure position; enjoy it immensely
Grace should inspire you to say no to temptation and sin
Romans 6:5-11 - God’s grace gave us a new life – why would we want to return to the old
Titus 2:11-14 - God’s grace teaches us t say no to sin (Cruise ship example)
Jude 3-5 - God’s grace is not license to sin, rather a license against sin
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.
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
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What are some disputable matters among Christians today? (dress, taste in music, food and drink)
What should your attitude be toward those who see these things differently?
Romans 14:16-23
What does God care about the most?
Are you doing anything that could cause others to stumble?
What does verse 23 mean?
Do you feel good about the way you are living now?
Matthew 11:18-19
Why did the people criticize Jesus and John the Baptist?
Why do you think they were so different yet both were pleasing God?
Application: Do you have questions about what is right and wrong for a Christian? Find out from a mature disciple whether these are disputable matters and come to your decisions.
What does God promise to those who seek him with all their hearts?
Are you seeking him or something else?
Psalms 37:3-4 - What are the desires of your heart? Do you believe God will give them to you?
Psalms 16:5-8 - Do you feel this way about your life? Why?
1 Timothy 6:6-10
What should make you content?
What will a desire for money and things do to your life?
How does someone "wander" from the faith?
What other desires could make us wander?
Romans 8:31-32 - How has God proven his love for you?
Application: If you see anxiety or discontentment in your life, confess it as a lack of faith, and memorize one of these scriptures to remind yourself of God's faithfulness.
What does God promise to those who seek him with all their hearts?
Are you seeking him or something else?
Psalms 37:3-4 - What are the desires of your heart? Do you believe God will give them to you?
Psalms 16:5-8 - Do you feel this way about your life? Why?
1 Timothy 6:6-10
What should make you content?
What will a desire for money and things do to your life?
How does someone "wander" from the faith?
What other desires could make us wander?
Romans 8:31-32 - How has God proven his love for you?
Application: If you see anxiety or discontentment in your life, confess it as a lack of faith, and memorize one of these scriptures to remind yourself of God's faithfulness.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) I think as a non-Christian, I was the most anxious, controlling person in the world. I remember I would have almost every minute of my life planned out from beginning to end. Although it helped me to be disciplined and to achieve goals, it stopped me from letting people into my heart. I was always the strong one to my friends and family…"the rock". They saw all the successful things on the outside, but they didn't see the desperate, feeble person I was inside. When I began to work with people, it was very difficult for me, because I had no control whatsoever over them. That lack of control began to crush me. Now I see that God is using my problems and failures to encourage me to grow. He is telling me the little that I know is not enough - I need to keep growing and changing and developing into the person He wants me to be. One decision I have made when I have problems in my ministry, marriage, or family is to pray about them and to commit them fully
to God. Now, instead of giving in to thoughts like “I can't change that woman's heart, I pray specifically about what I need help with and have confident expectation of what God will do. This has brought much more joy to my marriage, ministry, and life.
What is stealing your joy? Could it be that you are letting problems and situations dictate your life?
Decide today to commit those things to prayer and ask God to give you increasing character to deal with your life.
As promised, Sarah had a son: Isaac. She had Hagar and Ishmael sent away but God preserved them. Abraham and Abimelech made a treaty.
Observations
Genesis 21:1 - The LORD visited Sarah just as he had said he would and did for Sarah what he had promised
God's fulfillment of his promises does not depend on us. God alone is faithful in what he says he will do. Neither should our vows change the on what others do or how our situation changes. Wheather that be our decision to become a Christian, our marriage, or commitment to the church or our kids. Jesus loved people to the core despite how others treated him.
Genesis 21:22 - God is with you in all that you do
God is all around us. His works and the evidence that he exists can not be denied. Which leads to the question: he is all around us but also with us? God is watching us and he is with those who love him. [Romans 8:28]
Personal Application
I need to unmoved by the changing seas around me. I go all over the place on where I stand on giving to others without resolve. Need to be consistent as I faithfully follow the Lord.
Father perhaps had been scanning the horizon day after day - Luke 15:20
Until one day his dream came true
The celebration spared no expense - Luke 15:22-24
He welcomes sinners who do not deserve it - it is how he feels about us
Jesus literally opened wide his arms for us on the cross
He opens his arms for us all day long - Romans 10:21
Peter, at Pentecost, pleaded with the people to be saved on God's behalf - Acts 2:40
God's heart cares deeply for us
His heart was filled with pain during the time of Noah - Genesis 6:6
His heart is in that same way now - Luke 17:26
Centrality of the Heart (part II)The Christian life is a love affair of the heart
It can not be lived primarily as a set of principles
What must we do? Love the Lord your God with all of your heart - Luke 10:26
The truth of the gospel is intended to free us to love God
If we ignore our heart and only try to live out our religion solely as correct doctrine or ethics, our passion is crippled
What God cares about is the inner life, the life of the heart - Matthew 23:25-28
Our heart is the key to the Christian life - Isaiah 29:13
Paul - the hardness of the heart is behind all the addictions and evils of the human race - Romans 1:21-25
Above all we are to guard our heart
It was from the longing of our hearts that most of us first responded to Jesus
What changed?
It is possible to recover from the lost life of the heart - we must leave what is familiar and comfortable
Change our heart and go back to when we lived with our heart, a heart of a child - Mark 10:15
Centrality of the Heart (part II)The Christian life is a love affair of the heart
It can not be lived primarily as a set of principles
What must we do? Love the Lord your God with all of your heart - Luke 10:26
The truth of the gospel is intended to free us to love God
If we ignore our heart and only try to live out our religion solely as correct doctrine or ethics, our passion is crippled
What God cares about is the inner life, the life of the heart - Matthew 23:25-28
Our heart is the key to the Christian life - Isaiah 29:13
Paul - the hardness of the heart is behind all the addictions and evils of the human race - Romans 1:21-25
Above all we are to guard our heart
It was from the longing of our hearts that most of us first responded to Jesus
What changed?
It is possible to recover from the lost life of the heart - we must leave what is familiar and comfortable
Change our heart and go back to when we lived with our heart, a heart of a child - Mark 10:15
Centrality of the Heart (part II)The Christian life is a love affair of the heart
It can not be lived primarily as a set of principles
What must we do? Love the Lord your God with all of your heart - Luke 10:26
The truth of the gospel is intended to free us to love God
If we ignore our heart and only try to live out our religion solely as correct doctrine or ethics, our passion is crippled
What God cares about is the inner life, the life of the heart - Matthew 23:25-28
Our heart is the key to the Christian life - Isaiah 29:13
Paul - the hardness of the heart is behind all the addictions and evils of the human race - Romans 1:21-25
Above all we are to guard our heart
It was from the longing of our hearts that most of us first responded to Jesus
What changed?
It is possible to recover from the lost life of the heart - we must leave what is familiar and comfortable
Change our heart and go back to when we lived with our heart, a heart of a child - Mark 10:15
Centrality of the Heart (part II)The Christian life is a love affair of the heart
It can not be lived primarily as a set of principles
What must we do? Love the Lord your God with all of your heart - Luke 10:26
The truth of the gospel is intended to free us to love God
If we ignore our heart and only try to live out our religion solely as correct doctrine or ethics, our passion is crippled
What God cares about is the inner life, the life of the heart - Matthew 23:25-28
Our heart is the key to the Christian life - Isaiah 29:13
Paul - the hardness of the heart is behind all the addictions and evils of the human race - Romans 1:21-25
Above all we are to guard our heart
It was from the longing of our hearts that most of us first responded to Jesus
What changed?
It is possible to recover from the lost life of the heart - we must leave what is familiar and comfortable
Change our heart and go back to when we lived with our heart, a heart of a child - Mark 10:15
Centrality of the Heart (part II)The Christian life is a love affair of the heart
It can not be lived primarily as a set of principles
What must we do? Love the Lord your God with all of your heart - Luke 10:26
The truth of the gospel is intended to free us to love God
If we ignore our heart and only try to live out our religion solely as correct doctrine or ethics, our passion is crippled
What God cares about is the inner life, the life of the heart - Matthew 23:25-28
Our heart is the key to the Christian life - Isaiah 29:13
Paul - the hardness of the heart is behind all the addictions and evils of the human race - Romans 1:21-25
Above all we are to guard our heart
It was from the longing of our hearts that most of us first responded to Jesus
What changed?
It is possible to recover from the lost life of the heart - we must leave what is familiar and comfortable
Change our heart and go back to when we lived with our heart, a heart of a child - Mark 10:15
Having no accountability always leads to irresponsibility
One day we will stand before God one day and be held accountable for how we lived
Our actions not only have immediate consequences but eternal ones as well:
We will all stand before the judgment seat of God - Romans 14:10
He will “judge men’s secrets” - Romans 2:16
He will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness, disclosing the motives of our hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
He will judging the words of our mouths - Matthew 12:36
He will testthe deeds we have done - Romans 2:5-8
This is wired into our consciences and confirmed throughout His Word
Everything in a man’s thinking changes when he realizes that he is only one heartbeat from standing before the Lord
Do you know for certain where you will spend eternity after you die?
Most men don’t understand what God requires for someone to be ready
We must take full responsibility for ourselves, our wives, and our children
Preparing for that day is why we should become accountable to one another
Here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man - Ecclesiastes 12:13–14
Accountability dynamically helps make us into men - humble, wise, responsible, faithful men.
Having no accountability always leads to irresponsibility
One day we will stand before God one day and be held accountable for how we lived
Our actions not only have immediate consequences but eternal ones as well:
We will all stand before the judgment seat of God - Romans 14:10
He will “judge men’s secrets” - Romans 2:16
He will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness, disclosing the motives of our hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
He will judging the words of our mouths - Matthew 12:36
He will testthe deeds we have done - Romans 2:5-8
This is wired into our consciences and confirmed throughout His Word
Everything in a man’s thinking changes when he realizes that he is only one heartbeat from standing before the Lord
Do you know for certain where you will spend eternity after you die?
Most men don’t understand what God requires for someone to be ready
We must take full responsibility for ourselves, our wives, and our children
Preparing for that day is why we should become accountable to one another
Here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man - Ecclesiastes 12:13–14
Accountability dynamically helps make us into men - humble, wise, responsible, faithful men.
Having no accountability always leads to irresponsibility
One day we will stand before God one day and be held accountable for how we lived
Our actions not only have immediate consequences but eternal ones as well:
We will all stand before the judgment seat of God - Romans 14:10
He will “judge men’s secrets” - Romans 2:16
He will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness, disclosing the motives of our hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
He will judging the words of our mouths - Matthew 12:36
He will testthe deeds we have done - Romans 2:5-8
This is wired into our consciences and confirmed throughout His Word
Everything in a man’s thinking changes when he realizes that he is only one heartbeat from standing before the Lord
Do you know for certain where you will spend eternity after you die?
Most men don’t understand what God requires for someone to be ready
We must take full responsibility for ourselves, our wives, and our children
Preparing for that day is why we should become accountable to one another
Here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man - Ecclesiastes 12:13–14
Accountability dynamically helps make us into men - humble, wise, responsible, faithful men.
Having no accountability always leads to irresponsibility
One day we will stand before God one day and be held accountable for how we lived
Our actions not only have immediate consequences but eternal ones as well:
We will all stand before the judgment seat of God - Romans 14:10
He will “judge men’s secrets” - Romans 2:16
He will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness, disclosing the motives of our hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
He will judging the words of our mouths - Matthew 12:36
He will testthe deeds we have done - Romans 2:5-8
This is wired into our consciences and confirmed throughout His Word
Everything in a man’s thinking changes when he realizes that he is only one heartbeat from standing before the Lord
Do you know for certain where you will spend eternity after you die?
Most men don’t understand what God requires for someone to be ready
We must take full responsibility for ourselves, our wives, and our children
Preparing for that day is why we should become accountable to one another
Here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man - Ecclesiastes 12:13–14
Accountability dynamically helps make us into men - humble, wise, responsible, faithful men.
Having no accountability always leads to irresponsibility
One day we will stand before God one day and be held accountable for how we lived
Our actions not only have immediate consequences but eternal ones as well:
We will all stand before the judgment seat of God - Romans 14:10
He will “judge men’s secrets” - Romans 2:16
He will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness, disclosing the motives of our hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
He will judging the words of our mouths - Matthew 12:36
He will testthe deeds we have done - Romans 2:5-8
This is wired into our consciences and confirmed throughout His Word
Everything in a man’s thinking changes when he realizes that he is only one heartbeat from standing before the Lord
Do you know for certain where you will spend eternity after you die?
Most men don’t understand what God requires for someone to be ready
We must take full responsibility for ourselves, our wives, and our children
Preparing for that day is why we should become accountable to one another
Here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man - Ecclesiastes 12:13–14
Accountability dynamically helps make us into men - humble, wise, responsible, faithful men.
Having no accountability always leads to irresponsibility
One day we will stand before God one day and be held accountable for how we lived
Our actions not only have immediate consequences but eternal ones as well:
We will all stand before the judgment seat of God - Romans 14:10
He will “judge men’s secrets” - Romans 2:16
He will bring to light the things hidden in the darkness, disclosing the motives of our hearts - 1 Corinthians 4:5
He will judging the words of our mouths - Matthew 12:36
He will testthe deeds we have done - Romans 2:5-8
This is wired into our consciences and confirmed throughout His Word
Everything in a man’s thinking changes when he realizes that he is only one heartbeat from standing before the Lord
Do you know for certain where you will spend eternity after you die?
Most men don’t understand what God requires for someone to be ready
We must take full responsibility for ourselves, our wives, and our children
Preparing for that day is why we should become accountable to one another
Here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man - Ecclesiastes 12:13–14
Accountability dynamically helps make us into men - humble, wise, responsible, faithful men.
God not only wants you to lead your family but deeply love them
The more you walk with God and obey Him each day, the more of His love will be “poured out” in your heart - Romans 5:5
Children feel much more secure if they know their parents love each other.
We must do whatever it takes to put your marriage on a sound footing.
Don’t wait for her. Step up and be the leader God meant you to be. It’s never easy.
Your words in ten seconds can change them forever - either in a positively or negative way
If your kids feel they always get your leftover energy and attention, they will disconnect and struggle with resentment
Love our wives is actually more demanding than the task placed upon wives to “submit” to their husbands.
The example God gives husbands to follow is simply the most courageous and sacrificial act ever done in all human history.
When Jesus died for His bride, she was dirty and sinful. She was acting like His enemy.
We are called to sacrifice our lives every day for her.
To say “no” to what we want so we can say “yes” to what she needs. That is Christlike love and leadership.
Marriage, however, is a God-ordained covenant that invites you to love an imperfect, sinful person with the love of Christ.
Because that’s how He loves you. His love finds every reason to start but finds no reason to stop.
Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God - Romans 8:38-39
Most marriage problems are usually the result of a wife’s wounded reaction to poor leadership and lack of love from her husband.
The key to loving like Jesus is to understand that we cannot do it on our own.
God loves us not because we are lovable but because He is so loving.
We disconnect from our mate’s imperfections and plug into God’s unchanging nature.
What would happen in the next year if God’s unconditional love became the foundation of your marriage?
Love our wives is actually more demanding than the task placed upon wives to “submit” to their husbands.
The example God gives husbands to follow is simply the most courageous and sacrificial act ever done in all human history.
When Jesus died for His bride, she was dirty and sinful. She was acting like His enemy.
We are called to sacrifice our lives every day for her.
To say “no” to what we want so we can say “yes” to what she needs. That is Christlike love and leadership.
Marriage, however, is a God-ordained covenant that invites you to love an imperfect, sinful person with the love of Christ.
Because that’s how He loves you. His love finds every reason to start but finds no reason to stop.
Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God - Romans 8:38-39
Most marriage problems are usually the result of a wife’s wounded reaction to poor leadership and lack of love from her husband.
The key to loving like Jesus is to understand that we cannot do it on our own.
God loves us not because we are lovable but because He is so loving.
We disconnect from our mate’s imperfections and plug into God’s unchanging nature.
What would happen in the next year if God’s unconditional love became the foundation of your marriage?
Earthly authority is His design and tool for creating order and for keeping us accountable and responsible, for honoring good and for punishing evil - Romans 13:1-4
Authorities on earth help keep us mindful of His superior, eternal authority
God can turn the heart of anyone in a leadership position in any direction - Proverbs 21:1
We should be like Jesus and submit to our imperfect, human authorities knowing that God uses them to carry out His purposes - John 19:11
The only time we should not submit to them is when they are asking us to disobey God and sin - Acts 5:29
Notice that Scripture does not tell us to obey them only if we agree with their judgment - Hebrews 13:17-18
When dishonoring authority, you are not rebelling against an individual but against God Himself.
Handling and responding to authority is serious business.
Earthly authority is His design and tool for creating order and for keeping us accountable and responsible, for honoring good and for punishing evil - Romans 13:1-4
Authorities on earth help keep us mindful of His superior, eternal authority
God can turn the heart of anyone in a leadership position in any direction - Proverbs 21:1
We should be like Jesus and submit to our imperfect, human authorities knowing that God uses them to carry out His purposes - John 19:11
The only time we should not submit to them is when they are asking us to disobey God and sin - Acts 5:29
Notice that Scripture does not tell us to obey them only if we agree with their judgment - Hebrews 13:17-18
When dishonoring authority, you are not rebelling against an individual but against God Himself.
Handling and responding to authority is serious business.
Earthly authority is His design and tool for creating order and for keeping us accountable and responsible, for honoring good and for punishing evil - Romans 13:1-4
Authorities on earth help keep us mindful of His superior, eternal authority
God can turn the heart of anyone in a leadership position in any direction - Proverbs 21:1
We should be like Jesus and submit to our imperfect, human authorities knowing that God uses them to carry out His purposes - John 19:11
The only time we should not submit to them is when they are asking us to disobey God and sin - Acts 5:29
Notice that Scripture does not tell us to obey them only if we agree with their judgment - Hebrews 13:17-18
When dishonoring authority, you are not rebelling against an individual but against God Himself.
Handling and responding to authority is serious business.
Earthly authority is His design and tool for creating order and for keeping us accountable and responsible, for honoring good and for punishing evil - Romans 13:1-4
Authorities on earth help keep us mindful of His superior, eternal authority
God can turn the heart of anyone in a leadership position in any direction - Proverbs 21:1
We should be like Jesus and submit to our imperfect, human authorities knowing that God uses them to carry out His purposes - John 19:11
The only time we should not submit to them is when they are asking us to disobey God and sin - Acts 5:29
Notice that Scripture does not tell us to obey them only if we agree with their judgment - Hebrews 13:17-18
When dishonoring authority, you are not rebelling against an individual but against God Himself.
Handling and responding to authority is serious business.
States by their very nature reserve to themselves as the ultimate power of life and death over their individual members
Ineveitably come to thinks of themselves as divine:
Pharaohs of Egypt
King of Babylon
Emporeror of Rome
"Jesus is Lord" confession is hersey in their mind. Idolatry is the unoffical religon of every state.
Do not be afraid of those who can kill the body and nothing else - Luke 12:4
First century church was persecutied for its first 275 years: non-conformity was the crime - Romans 12:2
In 313, major persecution ended with Edict of Milan. The tables had turned and Christian emperors favored the church and began persecuting the pagans
Privilege always comes with a price. For when the empire becomes Christan, the church becomes imperial. Proclaim to the whole world, right? - Luke 24:47
However, no one can serve to masters - Matthew 6:24, other priorities eventually creep in.
Jesus did not intend to mandate building cathedrals, wearing crosses, fish bummer stickers, Christian tatoos or clerical dress
Large building can be visibility initmidating more than inviting
It is the lives people that speak and act in witness to the love of God revealed in Jesus. Nothing else is required.