Facebook: agapechurchslo

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Website: agape.church

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

CAMPFIRE: LIFE LESSONS FROM THE LEGENDS OF THE BIBLE

Week 2 | Campfire with Joseph: From Pit to Purpose

Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.

CAMPFIRE MOMENT

Joseph would say “DO NOT JUDGE GOD’S PURPOSE BY ONE PAINFUL CHAPTER.”

What people mean for harm, God can use for preparation, positioning, and purpose.

POINT 1: THE PIT IS NOT THE END OF YOUR STORY

Genesis 37:23–24

“So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the robe of many colors that he wore. And they took him and threw him into a pit. The pit was empty; there was no water in it.”

BIG TRUTH: A painful chapter is not a final conclusion.

POINT 2: GOD’S PRESENCE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOUR POSITION

Genesis 39:2–3

“The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man… His master saw that the Lord was with him…”

Genesis 39:20–21

“And Joseph’s master took him and put him into the prison… But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love…”

BIG TRUTH: Your location may change, but God’s presence remains constant.

POINT 3: CHARACTER DEVELOPED IN HARDSHIP PREPARES YOU FOR INFLUENCE

BIG TRUTH: Let hardship develop your character, not destroy it.

POINT 4: PURPOSE IS OFTEN REVEALED AFTER PERSEVERANCE

Genesis 50:20

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…”

BIG TRUTH: God’s plan is often clearer in hindsight than in the middle.

FOUR WAYS TO LIVE JOSEPH’S LESSON

1. DO NOT LET PAINFUL SEASONS MAKE YOU BITTER

2. STAY FAITHFUL IN PLACES THAT FEEL UNFAIR

3. LET HARDSHIP DEVELOP YOUR CHARACTER, NOT DESTROY IT

4. TRUST THAT GOD IS STILL WORKING EVEN WHEN LIFE FEELS DELAYED

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

Primary Text

Genesis 6:9, 13–14, 22; Hebrews 11:7

Foundational Scripture

Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.

Have you ever done something that made perfect sense to you because you knew why you were doing it, but it looked absolutely ridiculous to everybody else?

Imagine Noah for a moment. Day after day, week after week, year after year, building something nobody around him had ever seen before, for a storm nobody around him believed was coming. Can you imagine the conversations?

“Noah, what are you doing?” “I’m building an ark.” “What’s an ark?” “It’s a really big boat.” “What’s the really big boat for?” “For the flood.” “What flood, we’re in the desert?”…And in that moment, Noah had to decide whether he was going to live by what people thought or by what God said.

That is not just Noah’s struggle. That is ours. Because there are moments in every believer’s life when obedience to God will put you out of step with the culture around you. 

There will be seasons when doing the right thing will not be applauded. There will be times when honoring God will make you look strange, extreme, or out of touch with current times.

And in those moments, you need more than inspiration. In those moments, you need conviction.

That is why this summer we are in this series, CAMPFIRE. We are sitting down with men and women from Scripture who still speak to us through what Hebrews 12:1 calls a great cloud of witnesses. They do not just inspire us from a distance… Their lives testify to us… Their stories call to us… Their faith still has something to say to our modern struggles, our leadership decisions, our family battles, and our everyday obedience. 

And today, if Noah sat down across from you at the campfire, with a cup of coffee in his hand, I think he would say something like this:

“If you are going to walk with God, THERE WILL BE TIMES YOU HAVE TO STAND ALONE.”

[OUR BIG IDEA TODAY IS THIS…]

Obedience to God will sometimes set you apart from the crowd, but WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM THE CROWD IS OFTEN WHAT GOD USES TO PRESERVE YOUR FUTURE. 

Let’s look at the life of Noah.

Point 1: NOAH WALKED WITH GOD IN A CORRUPT GENERATION

Genesis 6:9

These are the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God.

I love that the Bible does not first describe Noah by what he built. It describes him by how he walked.

Before Noah ever built an ark, he built a life with God.

The text says he was righteous, blameless in his generation, and that he walked with God. 

That doesn’t mean Noah was sinless. It means he was set apart. 

It means there was something distinct about him. 

It means when everybody else was going one direction away from God, Noah was going in the other toward God.

And that matters because Genesis 6 makes it clear that Noah was not living in an easy environment. He was living in a corrupt generation. Wickedness had spread. Violence had increased. Human hearts had drifted far from God.

So notice this… Noah’s righteousness is made even more visible because of the darkness around him.

Faithfulness is often most visible when compromise is most common.

It does not take much courage to blend in. It does not take much conviction to go with the flow. 

But it takes real faith to walk with God when the people around you are not.

Some of us keep waiting for culture to get easier before we obey more deeply. But that is not how this works. 

Noah shows us that the darker the culture gets, the more distinct the people of God should become.

We are not called to be strange for the sake of being strange… We are called to be holy.

We are not called to be difficult for the sake of being difficult… We are called to be faithful. 

We are not called to chase cultural approval… We are called to walk with God.

There is a difference… And I want to pause here and make this very practical.

Some of you are trying to follow Christ in spaces where very few people share your convictions. 

You are the only believer in your friend group. The only one in your department trying to live with integrity. The only one in your family who is taking God seriously right now. The only one trying to honor God in your dating life. The only one trying to lead your home biblically.

And the temptation in those moments is to think, “Maybe I’m doing too much.”

But Noah would tell you, “No. Maybe you’re just walking with God.”

Because faithfulness does not always feel popular. SOMETIMES FAITHFULNESS FEELS LONELY.

But let me say this clearly: Just because you are OUTNUMBERED DOES NOT MEAN YOU ARE OUT OF GOD’S WILL.

Noah walked with God while living in a corrupt generation.

And Agape, that is still the call.

Not to mirror the culture… Not to blend into the crowd… Not to adjust truth to fit the moment… BUT TO WALK WITH GOD.

Psalm 1:1–3 tells us blessed is the person who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked but delights in the law of the Lord.

Psalm 1:1–3 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither - whatever they do prospers.

Romans 12:2 tells us not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our mind.

Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

That is Noah… And that must be us.

BIG TRUTH

YOUR ENVIRONMENT MAY BE DARK, BUT YOUR LIFE CAN STILL BE DISTINCT.

Point 2: GOD OFTEN ASKS FOR OBEDIENCE BEFORE HE EXPLAINS EVERYTHING

Genesis 6:13–14

And God said to Noah, “I have determined to make an end of all flesh, for the earth is filled with violence through them. Behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make yourself an ark of gopher wood. Make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and out with pitch.

This is one of the most remarkable moments in Scripture.

God gives Noah an assignment that has no cultural precedent, no public support, and no visible confirmation.

God tells Noah to build before he ever sees rain.

Now for us, rain is ordinary. Flood language is familiar. Boats make sense. But this was not the case for Noah.

Noah is obeying God in a category he has never personally experienced… And that is what makes obedience so powerful.

Because obedience is not based on full understanding. Obedience IS BASED ON FULL TRUST. 

A lot of us want step #10 before we ever take step #1. We want God to explain everything, map it all out, solve every question, remove every uncertainty, and guarantee every outcome before we move.

But if God always explained everything, IT WOULD NOT REQUIRE FAITH.

Hebrews 11:7 says,

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

Did you catch that phrase? As yet unseen. Noah built in response to something he had not yet seen.

And there are seasons when that is exactly what obedience looks like for you and me.

You forgive before you feel closure.

You tithe before you see abundance.

You serve before you feel recognized.

You say yes before all the details are clear.

You build because God said build…

There are marriages that need to hear this.

There are leaders who need to hear this.

There are parents who need to hear this.

There are believers sitting in this room right now who have been delaying obedience because you keep ASKING FOR CLARITY GOD NEVER PROMISED TO GIVE IN ADVANCE.

Let me help you… Sometimes God gives enough light for the next step, but not the whole staircase.

That is not God being cruel. That is God developing trust.

Because if you only obey when it makes sense, then your obedience is still rooted in your own understanding.

But Proverbs 3:5–6 says,

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Noah teaches us that sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is move at the level of what God said, even when you cannot fully explain why.

And this particularly difficult for modern people because we are trained to trust what is measurable, trust what is visible, and trust what is immediate… But faith has always required a different posture.

Faith says, “If God said it, that is enough for me to start building.”

BIG TRUTH

YOU DO NOT NEED FULL EXPLANATION TO GIVE FULL OBEDIENCE.

Point 3: STANDING ALONE WITH GOD IS BETTER THAN FITTING IN WITHOUT HIM

If Noah’s neighbors saw him working on that ark, I promise you he looked foolish.

Because obedience often looks foolish before it looks wise.

And, if we’re honest with the dialogue of our hearts, that is one of the hardest parts of following God. Not just doing what is right… but doing what is right while being misunderstood, criticized, and even mocked.

Noah’s obedience likely looked ridiculous to people around him.

But what the world mocks today may be what God honors tomorrow. 

There are people who will laugh at your boundaries. Laugh at your convictions. Laugh at your commitment to purity. Laugh at your decision to honor God with your money. Laugh at your refusal to compromise. Laugh at your decision to forgive. Laugh at your insistence on truth.

But you have to settle something in your spirit… Standing alone with God is better than fitting in without Him. 

Because fitting in can get expensive… It often costs you conviction. It costs you peace. It costs you clarity. Sometimes it costs you spiritual authority.

And the truth is, if you spend your life trying to be accepted by people who do not value obedience to God, you will eventually be pressured to disobey the God who called you, blessed you, gifted you, and ultimately died for you!

Noah reminds us that loneliness and abandonment ARE NOT the same thing. 

Just because you are standing apart does not mean God has left you. In fact, sometimes separation is evidence of consecration.

Sometimes the reason you do not fit in is because God has set you apart.

2 Corinthians 6:17 says,

Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord,

and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you,

Now that does not mean isolation from the world. It means distinction within it. 

We are in the world, but not of it. We love people, but we do not mirror every value around us.

And there are moments when you must choose whether you want the comfort of the crowd or the companionship of God… Noah chose God!

And eventually, what looked foolish was revealed as wisdom.

Agape, hear me: The crowd is often loud, but it is not always right.

Popularity is not proof of truth… Agreement is not always confirmation. And resistance is not always a sign that you missed God.

Sometimes resistance is the evidence that you hit something important.

BIG TRUTH

DO NOT CONFUSE STANDING ALONE WITH BEING ABANDONED. 

Point 4: OBEDIENCE DOES NOT JUST BLESS YOU — IT CAN PRESERVE OTHERS

Genesis 6:22

Noah did this; he did all that God commanded him.

Noah’s obedience was personal, but it was never merely private.

His faithfulness impacted his whole household… His obedience had generational impact… And that’s one of the strongest lessons in the whole story.

We often think obedience is just about me and God. My calling.

My peace. My blessing. My breakthrough.

But Noah reminds us that your obedience may become shelter for somebody else. 

Parents, your obedience matters; Leaders, your obedience matters. Husbands, wives, singles, students, pastors, business leaders—your obedience matters!

Because when you honor God, you are not just making a personal choice. You may be building something your children will one day live inside of. You may be making a decision that preserves a marriage, shifts a family line, protects a ministry, or opens a future you cannot yet see.

Noah built an ark, but what he was really building was preservation.

And that speaks to us in such a practical way.

When you pray instead of panic, you may be preserving your home.

When you stay faithful instead of compromising, you may be preserving your witness.

When you obey God financially, you may be preserving future freedom.

When you choose purity, you may be preserving your future marriage.

When you repent quickly, you may be preserving the tenderness of your heart.

When you stand for truth, you may be preserving somebody else’s courage.

Never UNDERESTIMATE THE REACH OF YOUR OBEDIENCE.

You may think nobody notices. You may think it is just your private yes. You may think it is just another ordinary day of choosing faithfulness.

But Noah would tell you: “You do not always know who is in the ark of your obedience yet.”

Acts 16:31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Deuteronomy 5:29 points to the blessing that comes when God’s people fear Him and keep His commands, for them and their children.

Deuteronomy 5:29 Oh that they had such a heart as this always, to fear me and to keep all my commandments, that it might go well with them and with their descendants forever!

BIG TRUTH

PRIVATE OBEDIENCE CAN HAVE PUBLIC AND GENERATIONAL IMPACT. 

I want to give you four practical takeaways for this message…

Ways to Apply Noah’s Lesson This Week

1. DO WHAT GOD SAYS EVEN WHEN IT IS UNPOPULAR

Stop waiting for applause to obey. Stop checking whether your conviction is trending. Stop measuring truth by public acceptance.

If God said it, that settles it.

This week, I challenge you to identify one area where delayed obedience has been hiding behind fear of people’s opinions. Then obey God there.

2. STAY CLOSE TO GOD WHEN CULTURE GROWS DARKER

Noah walked with God in a corrupt generation. That means your answer to cultural darkness is not panic. Your answer to cultural darkness is proximity to God!

Stay in the Word. Stay in prayer. Stay in worship. Stay in community. Stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

Do not let darkness push you away from God when it should be driving you closer to Him.

3. DO NOT CONFUSE STANDING ALONE WITH BEING ABANDONED

Some of you need to hear this in your spirit.

If you are the only one in your family trying to break a cycle—you are not abandoned.

If you are the only one in your friend circle trying to live holy—you are not abandoned.

If you are the only one at work refusing to cut corners—you are not abandoned.

You may be standing alone socially, but you are not standing alone spiritually.

4. REMEMBER YOUR OBEDIENCE MAY PROTECT MORE PEOPLE THAN YOU REALIZE

Your yes to God may become safety for your children.

Your faithfulness may become encouragement for a friend.

Your conviction may become a model for someone who is watching quietly.

Keep building. Keep obeying. Keep trusting.

You may not fully understand what your obedience is preserving yet.

When you read Noah’s story, it is easy to focus on the ark.

The size of it. The scale of it. The miracle of it.

But the ark began long before the first board was cut. It began in a heart that had already decided: “I gonna walk with God, even if nobody else does.”… And that is where obedience begins for us too… in a settled private conviction.

So let me ask you today: What has God told you to build? What has God told you to stop? What has God told you to start? Where has God been calling you to obey, even though it does not yet make sense? Where have you been tempted to fit in, when God has called you to stand apart?

Because this is the lesson from Noah: Obedience to God will sometimes set you apart from the crowd, but what sets you apart is often what God uses to preserve your future. 

And I believe there are people in this room who are in ark-building season.

It is repetitive.

It is costly.

It is misunderstood.

It is not glamorous.

It is not celebrated.

It may even feel lonely… BUT KEEP BUILDING!.

Because when the rain comes, what looked foolish in one season will be revealed as faithfulness in another.

RESPONSE / PRAYER MOMENT

Maybe today your prayer needs to be:

“Lord, help me obey You before I understand everything.”

“Lord, strengthen me to stand when I feel alone.”

“Lord, keep me close to You in a corrupt generation.”

“Lord, use my obedience to preserve what matters most.”

LET’S PRAY THAT TOGETHER.

Father, thank You for the witness of Noah. Thank You that You still speak through lives of faith. Strengthen us to walk with You in dark times. Give us the courage to obey You when it is unpopular, when it is costly, and when we stand alone. Help us trust Your voice more than public opinion, and Your promises more than what we can see. And let our obedience not only bless us, but preserve those connected to our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

BUILT TO LAST – God’s Plan for Love, Marriage & Family

Week 6 | Rebuilt by Grace: When Relationships Are Broken

There was a house that had been abandoned for years. The foundation was cracked… The windows were shattered… The inside was worn down by time and neglect… Most people walked by and said, “It’s too far gone.” But then a builder came along and said, “I don’t see what it is… I see what it can become.”

Months later, that same house— that people had written off— was restored, renewed, and beautiful again.

And here’s the truth: Some of you feel like that house.

Something broke; Something didn’t last; Something didn’t go the way you planned 

And deep down, you’re wondering… “Is it too far gone?”

If you’ve ever felt like your relationships, your past, or even your family story is broken… This message is for you.

Because the God we serve is not just a builder… He is also a rebuilder.

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Joel 2:25 (ESV)

I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter, my great army, which I sent among you.

Not just forgive… Not just cover… BUT Restore.

POINT 1: BROKENNESS IS REAL — BUT IT’S NOT FINAL

Let’s be honest: Divorce is real; Loss is real; Betrayal is real; Regret is real 

Psalm 34:18

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

God doesn’t ignore brokenness… He moves toward it

BIG IDEA…

Brokenness may be part of your story, but BROKENNESS DOES NOT HAVE TO BE THE END OF YOUR STORY.

POINT 2: GRACE IS GREATER THAN YOUR PAST

Some people live trapped in: guilt; shame; regret 

Romans 8:1

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

The enemy says: “You blew it.” BUT God says: “I can rebuild it.”

Isaiah 43:18–19

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

BIG IDEA…

Grace doesn’t just forgive your past — GRACE FREES YOUR FUTURE.

POINT 3: GOD SPECIALIZES IN RESTORATION

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

New doesn’t mean patched up… It means transformed

John 21:15–17 (Peter restored)

Peter denied Jesus… publicly…

And Jesus didn’t disqualify him… He restored him.

BIG IDEA…

God doesn’t just use perfect people — GOD RESTORES BROKEN PEOPLE.

POINT 4: HEALING REQUIRES HONESTY AND SURRENDER

Healing doesn’t happen through avoidance… Healing happens through surrender.

James 5:16

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

What you hide… God cannot heal.

Proverbs 28:13

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

BIG IDEA…

HEALING BEGINS WHERE HONESTY MEETS SURRENDER.

POINT 5: YOUR STORY CAN STILL BE REDEEMED

Some of you believe: “I missed it.” “It’s too late.” “This wasn’t God’s plan…”

But hear me clearly: God is not limited to your mistakes.

Romans 8:28

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Not that everything was good… But God can work it for good

BIG IDEA…

God can TAKE WHAT WAS BROKEN and BUILD SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR HEALING & RESTORATION

1. BRING YOUR PAIN TO GOD HONESTLY

Don’t filter it; Don’t hide it 

God heals what you surrender.

2. RELEASE SHAME and RECEIVE GRACE

Stop rehearsing your failures… Start receiving God’s truth 

Shame keeps you stuck—grace moves you forward.

3. PURSUE HEALTHY COMMUNITY

Don’t isolate… Invite support

Healing happens in community.

4. FORGIVE — even when it’s hard

Others… Yourself

Forgiveness frees you, not just them.

5. TAKE THE NEXT RIGHT STEP

Not perfection… Progress

You don’t rebuild everything at once—just the next step.

CLOSING MOMENT

Some of you walked into this series feeling like: “This doesn’t apply to me…” “My story is too messy…” “I’ve already messed it up…”

But today… God is reminding you: I’m not finished with you.

Your marriage may be struggling… Your past may be painful… Your family story may be complicated…

But none of that disqualifies you from:

God’s grace; God’s healing; God’s restoration

ALTAR / RESPONSE

“God, heal what’s broken in me.” 

“Restore what I thought was lost.” 

“Help me release shame and receive Your grace.” 

DECLARATION

I am not disqualified. I am not beyond repair. I am not too far gone. I am being restored by God. And what God rebuilds… will last!

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

BUILT TO LAST – God’s Plan for Love, Marriage & Family

Week 6 | Rebuilt by Grace: When Relationships Are Broken

There was a house that had been abandoned for years. The foundation was cracked… The windows were shattered… The inside was worn down by time and neglect… Most people walked by and said, “It’s too far gone.” But then a builder came along and said, “I don’t see what it is… I see what it can become.”

Months later, that same house— that people had written off— was restored, renewed, and beautiful again.

And here’s the truth: Some of you feel like that house.

Something broke; Something didn’t last; Something didn’t go the way you planned 

And deep down, you’re wondering… “Is it too far gone?”

If you’ve ever felt like your relationships, your past, or even your family story is broken… This message is for you.

Because the God we serve is not just a builder… He is also a rebuilder.

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Joel 2:25 (ESV)

I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter, my great army, which I sent among you.

Not just forgive… Not just cover… BUT Restore.

POINT 1: BROKENNESS IS REAL — BUT IT’S NOT FINAL

Let’s be honest: Divorce is real; Loss is real; Betrayal is real; Regret is real 

Psalm 34:18

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

God doesn’t ignore brokenness… He moves toward it

BIG IDEA…

Brokenness may be part of your story, but BROKENNESS DOES NOT HAVE TO BE THE END OF YOUR STORY.

POINT 2: GRACE IS GREATER THAN YOUR PAST

Some people live trapped in: guilt; shame; regret 

Romans 8:1

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

The enemy says: “You blew it.” BUT God says: “I can rebuild it.”

Isaiah 43:18–19

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

BIG IDEA…

Grace doesn’t just forgive your past — GRACE FREES YOUR FUTURE.

POINT 3: GOD SPECIALIZES IN RESTORATION

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

New doesn’t mean patched up… It means transformed

John 21:15–17 (Peter restored)

Peter denied Jesus… publicly…

And Jesus didn’t disqualify him… He restored him.

BIG IDEA…

God doesn’t just use perfect people — GOD RESTORES BROKEN PEOPLE.

POINT 4: HEALING REQUIRES HONESTY AND SURRENDER

Healing doesn’t happen through avoidance… Healing happens through surrender.

James 5:16

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

What you hide… God cannot heal.

Proverbs 28:13

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

BIG IDEA…

HEALING BEGINS WHERE HONESTY MEETS SURRENDER.

POINT 5: YOUR STORY CAN STILL BE REDEEMED

Some of you believe: “I missed it.” “It’s too late.” “This wasn’t God’s plan…”

But hear me clearly: God is not limited to your mistakes.

Romans 8:28

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Not that everything was good… But God can work it for good

BIG IDEA…

God can TAKE WHAT WAS BROKEN and BUILD SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR HEALING & RESTORATION

1. BRING YOUR PAIN TO GOD HONESTLY

Don’t filter it; Don’t hide it 

God heals what you surrender.

2. RELEASE SHAME and RECEIVE GRACE

Stop rehearsing your failures… Start receiving God’s truth 

Shame keeps you stuck—grace moves you forward.

3. PURSUE HEALTHY COMMUNITY

Don’t isolate… Invite support

Healing happens in community.

4. FORGIVE — even when it’s hard

Others… Yourself

Forgiveness frees you, not just them.

5. TAKE THE NEXT RIGHT STEP

Not perfection… Progress

You don’t rebuild everything at once—just the next step.

CLOSING MOMENT

Some of you walked into this series feeling like: “This doesn’t apply to me…” “My story is too messy…” “I’ve already messed it up…”

But today… God is reminding you: I’m not finished with you.

Your marriage may be struggling… Your past may be painful… Your family story may be complicated…

But none of that disqualifies you from:

God’s grace; God’s healing; God’s restoration

ALTAR / RESPONSE

“God, heal what’s broken in me.” 

“Restore what I thought was lost.” 

“Help me release shame and receive Your grace.” 

DECLARATION

I am not disqualified. I am not beyond repair. I am not too far gone. I am being restored by God. And what God rebuilds… will last!

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

BUILT TO LAST – God’s Plan for Love, Marriage & Family

Week 5 | Built at Home: Raising the Next Generation God’s Way

A parent once said, “I just want my kids to turn out right.” And every parent in the room felt that. But here’s the tension… We want:

respectful kids || responsible kids || faith-filled kids 

…but we’re raising them in a world that is constantly discipling them in the opposite direction.

And if we’re honest… Most parents feel overwhelmed; Some feel underqualified; And many are just trying to survive the day.

But here’s the truth: Parenting is not just about raising good kids…

it’s about building God-centered lives.

If your family is going to be Built to Last, you cannot outsource what God has assigned to you.

OUR FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE IS FOUND IN…

Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (ESV)

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Not occasionally; Not accidentally… but Diligently!

POINT 1: PARENTS ARE THE PRIMARY DISCIPLERS

Culture says: “Let the school teach them” and “Let the church raise them spiritually” 

But God says: “You teach them.”

Psalm 78:5–7

He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel,

which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.

The church supports… Schools assist.. But Parents disciple

BIG IDEA…

If you don’t lead your children spiritually, culture will step in and lead them for you.

If you don’t lead your children in truth, don’t be surprised when culture leads them into confusion.

POINT 2: WHAT YOU MODEL MATTERS MORE THAN WHAT YOU SAY

Kids listen in a different way that you expect… KIDS LISTEN BY WATCHING.

Proverbs 20:7

The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!

Your children will learn more from how you respond; how you treat people; how you handle pressure… than from what you say in when you’re lecturing them.

BIG IDEA…

The life you live teaches your children more than the words you speak.

What your children see in you will speak louder than what they hear from you.

POINT 3: DISCIPLINE IS TRAINING, NOT PUNISHMENT

Many people confuse discipline with punishment.

Punishment reacts; Discipline trains

Proverbs 22:6

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Hebrews 12:11

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Discipline is not about control; DISCIPLINE IS ABOUT FORMATION

BIG IDEA…

If all you do is stop bad behavior without forming godly character, you you miss the point and haven’t reached the real goal.

The goal parenting God’s way is not just about correcting wrong behavior, but helping shape godly character.

POINT 4: BUILD FAITH INTO EVERYDAY LIFE

Many parents think: “If we go to church… we’re good.”

But faith is not meant to “live in” or “live at” a building.

Deuteronomy 6:7 (continued)

You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Faith is in conversations; in car rides; in daily life 

BIG IDEA…

Faith is not just for Sunday—it belongs in everyday life.

Faith is not just something we practice once a week—it should shape how we live every day.

POINT 5: YOUR GOAL IS NOT CONTROL—IT’S PREPARATION

You don’t raise children to control their lives forever…

You raise them to release them into life, equipped with the tools, wisdom, and faith God has entrusted you to impart to them.

Psalm 127:4

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.

Arrows are not meant to stay in your hand… Arrows are meant to be launched!

BIG IDEA…

Parenting is preparation for purpose—not permanent control.

The goal of parenting is not lifelong control, but raising children who are ready to walk in God’s purpose for their lives.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR BIBLICAL PARENTING

1. CREATE CONSISTENT SPIRITUAL RHYTHMS

Pray together; Read Scripture together 

Consistency builds your family culture.

2. HAVE INTENTIONAL CONVERSATIONS

Ask about their day; Speak truth into their lives 

Don’t just manage behavior—shape hearts.

3. BE AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE IN THEIR CHARACTER

Integrity; Faith; Kindness 

Children will mirror what they see.

4. DISCIPLINE WITH PURPOSE, NOT EMOTION

Stay calm and Be consistent 

Correction should build your child, not break their spirit.

5. REGULARLY REMIND YOUR CHILDREN WHO THEY ARE

Speak life; Consistently affirm your children’s value, character, and God-given identity!

Their Christ Identity anchors their future.

Some of you feel like you’re not doing enough… But hear me:

God didn’t call you to be a perfect parent BUT He did call you to be a present and intentional parent.

And what you build in your home today… will echo into generations to come!

CONSISTENT PRAYER MOVING FORWARD…

“God, help me lead my home spiritually.” 

“Give me wisdom and patience as a parent.” 

“God, heal where I’ve fallen short and strengthen where I feel weak.” 

DECLARATION

My home will not be shaped by culture. My children will not be raised by accident. My family will be built on God’s truth. And what is built in my home… will last for generations. In Jesus’ Name!

Week 5 | Built at Home: Raising the Next Generation God’s Way

A parent once said, “I just want my kids to turn out right.” And every parent in the room felt that. But here’s the tension… We want:

respectful kids || responsible kids || faith-filled kids 

…but we’re raising them in a world that is constantly discipling them in the opposite direction.

And if we’re honest… Most parents feel overwhelmed; Some feel underqualified; And many are just trying to survive the day.

But here’s the truth: Parenting is not just about raising good kids…

it’s about building God-centered lives.

If your family is going to be Built to Last, you cannot outsource what God has assigned to you.

OUR FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE IS FOUND IN…

Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (ESV)

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Not occasionally; Not accidentally… but Diligently!

POINT 1: PARENTS ARE THE PRIMARY DISCIPLERS

Culture says: “Let the school teach them” and “Let the church raise them spiritually” 

But God says: “You teach them.”

Psalm 78:5–7

He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel,

which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.

The church supports… Schools assist.. But Parents disciple

BIG IDEA…

If you don’t lead your children spiritually, culture will step in and lead them for you.

If you don’t lead your children in truth, don’t be surprised when culture leads them into confusion.

POINT 2: WHAT YOU MODEL MATTERS MORE THAN WHAT YOU SAY

Kids listen in a different way that you expect… KIDS LISTEN BY WATCHING.

Proverbs 20:7

The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!

Your children will learn more from how you respond; how you treat people; how you handle pressure… than from what you say in when you’re lecturing them.

BIG IDEA…

The life you live teaches your children more than the words you speak.

What your children see in you will speak louder than what they hear from you.

POINT 3: DISCIPLINE IS TRAINING, NOT PUNISHMENT

Many people confuse discipline with punishment.

Punishment reacts; Discipline trains

Proverbs 22:6

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Hebrews 12:11

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Discipline is not about control; DISCIPLINE IS ABOUT FORMATION

BIG IDEA…

If all you do is stop bad behavior without forming godly character, you you miss the point and haven’t reached the real goal.

The goal parenting God’s way is not just about correcting wrong behavior, but helping shape godly character.

POINT 4: BUILD FAITH INTO EVERYDAY LIFE

Many parents think: “If we go to church… we’re good.”

But faith is not meant to “live in” or “live at” a building.

Deuteronomy 6:7 (continued)

You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Faith is in conversations; in car rides; in daily life 

BIG IDEA…

Faith is not just for Sunday—it belongs in everyday life.

Faith is not just something we practice once a week—it should shape how we live every day.

POINT 5: YOUR GOAL IS NOT CONTROL—IT’S PREPARATION

You don’t raise children to control their lives forever…

You raise them to release them into life, equipped with the tools, wisdom, and faith God has entrusted you to impart to them.

Psalm 127:4

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.

Arrows are not meant to stay in your hand… Arrows are meant to be launched!

BIG IDEA…

Parenting is preparation for purpose—not permanent control.

The goal of parenting is not lifelong control, but raising children who are ready to walk in God’s purpose for their lives.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR BIBLICAL PARENTING

1. CREATE CONSISTENT SPIRITUAL RHYTHMS

Pray together; Read Scripture together 

Consistency builds your family culture.

2. HAVE INTENTIONAL CONVERSATIONS

Ask about their day; Speak truth into their lives 

Don’t just manage behavior—shape hearts.

3. BE AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE IN THEIR CHARACTER

Integrity; Faith; Kindness 

Children will mirror what they see.

4. DISCIPLINE WITH PURPOSE, NOT EMOTION

Stay calm and Be consistent 

Correction should build your child, not break their spirit.

5. REGULARLY REMIND YOUR CHILDREN WHO THEY ARE

Speak life; Consistently affirm your children’s value, character, and God-given identity!

Their Christ Identity anchors their future.

Some of you feel like you’re not doing enough… But hear me:

God didn’t call you to be a perfect parent BUT He did call you to be a present and intentional parent.

And what you build in your home today… will echo into generations to come!

CONSISTENT PRAYER MOVING FORWARD…

“God, help me lead my home spiritually.” 

“Give me wisdom and patience as a parent.” 

“God, heal where I’ve fallen short and strengthen where I feel weak.” 

DECLARATION

My home will not be shaped by culture. My children will not be raised by accident. My family will be built on God’s truth. And what is built in my home… will last for generations. In Jesus’ Name!

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

Week 4 | Built to Last: Leaving a Godly Legacy

{CORE VALUE: Agape Church – The things we BUILD FOR GOD should OUTLIVE US}

Because whether we realize it or not… We are all building something that will outlive us.

TRANSITION

If your life and family are going to be Built to Last,

you have to stop thinking just about today…

…and start building for generations.

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Psalm 78:4 (ESV)

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.

Faith was never meant to stop with you.

It was meant to flow through you.

POINT 1: LEGACY IS BUILT, NOT LEFT

Many people think legacy is something you leave when you die.

But legacy is something you build while you live.

Proverbs 13:22

A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.

That inheritance is not just financial… it’s spiritual, it’s relational, and it’s generational.

BIG IDEA…

YOU ARE BUILDING A LEGACY RIGHT NOW—WHETHER YOU REALIZE IT OR NOT.

The question is not: “Will I leave a legacy?”

The question is: “What kind of legacy am I building?”

POINT 2: WHAT YOU PASS DOWN MATTERS MORE THAN WHAT YOU PASS ON

We focus on:

Money, success, opportunities 

But God focuses on:

Faith, character, truth 

Deuteronomy 6:6–7

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

You don’t just pass down possessions… You pass down priorities.

BIG IDEA…

WHAT YOU LIVE CONSISTENTLY WILL BE WHAT YOUR CHILDREN REMEMBER PERMANENTLY.

POINT 3: MULTI-GENERATIONAL FAITH IS GOD’S DESIGN

Psalm 145:4

One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.

God never intended for faith to be: one generation deep

He designed it to be: multi-generational

2 Timothy 1:5

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.

Faith was passed down, Modeled and it Multiplied

BIG IDEA…

A STRONG FAMILY IS NOT BUILT IN ONE GENERATION — IT’S STRENGTHENED ACROSS GENERATIONS.

POINT 4: YOU CAN MAKE CHANGES THAT POSITIVELY IMPACT THE LEGACY

Some people hear this and think: “But my family didn’t pass down anything good…”

But here’s the power of the Gospel: You can be the starting point.

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

You don’t have to repeat what you inherited… You can rebuild what was broken.

BIG IDEA…

IN CHRIST, YOU DON’T HAVE TO CONTINUE THE PATTERN—YOU CAN CHANGE IT.

POINT 5: FINISH STRONGER THAN YOU STARTED

It’s not just how you start… It’s how you finish.

Philippians 1:6

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 12:1

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…

A Godly legacy requires: consistency, endurance, and, intentionality 

BIG IDEA…

A STRONG FINISH CREATES A LASTING LEGACY.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR BUILDING A GODLY LEGACY

1. CLARIFY YOUR FAMILY VALUES (POST THEM, IF YOU CAN)

What matters most? What will define your home? [BECAUSE…] What is clear gets built.

2. TALK ABOUT GOD REGULARLY

Share testimonies; Talk about His faithfulness. [BECAUSE…] Stories shape legacy.

3. LIVE WHAT YOU BELIEVE

Integrity; Faith in action. [BECAUSE…] Consistency builds credibility.

4. INVEST IN THE NEXT GENERATION INTENTIONALLY

Time; Conversations; Mentorship. [BECAUSE…] Legacy requires investment.

5. BREAK WHAT NEEDS TO BE BROKEN

Toxic patterns; Generational dysfunction. [BECAUSE…] We don’t pass down what God wants to heal.

CLOSING MOMENT

One day… Everything we’ve built will speak.

Your life will preach a message… even when you’re no longer here.

[THE QUESTION IS…] Will it say: “Success… but no substance?”

Or will it say: “Faith… that changed generations?”

Because at the end of the day… The greatest thing you can leave behind

is not something in their hands…

THE GREATEST THING YOU CAN LEAVE BEHIND IT’S SOMETHING IN THEIR HEARTS.

CONSISTENT PRAYER MOVING FORWARD…

“God, help me build a legacy that honors You.” 

“Use my life to impact generations.” 

“Break what needs to be broken and build what needs to last.” 

DECLARATION

My life will not be lived for the moment. My family will not drift without direction. My legacy will be built on faith. And what is built on faith anchored in the finished work of Jesus… will outlive me for generations!

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

BUILT TO LAST – God’s Plan for Love, Marriage & Family

Week 3 | Built on Understanding: Loving Each Other Well

A husband once said, “I don’t understand my wife… I fixed the problem, but she’s still upset.” The wife said, “I didn’t want you to fix it—I wanted you to feel it with me.”

Now the husband is confused… The wife is frustrated… And both are thinking:

“Why is this so hard?”

Because here’s the truth: Most conflict in marriage is not about bad intentions…

Most conflict in marriage is about MISUNDERSTANDING.

Two people can love each other deeply… and still hurt each other consistently… if they don’t understand how to love each other well.

If your marriage is going to be Built to Last, you have to move beyond: “I love you” …to “I KNOW HOW TO LOVE YOU.”

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

1 Peter 3:7 (ESV)

Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Not just living together… but living with understanding.

POINT 1: LOVE REQUIRES LEARNING

We assume love should come naturally… But biblical love is a learned skill.

Philippians 1:9

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,

Love is not just emotional—it’s intentional and informed.

BIG IDEA…

You cannot love someone the right way if you do not take the time to understand them.

Real love is more than strong feelings; it requires the humility to keep learning how the other person receives care, support, and affection.

What encourages them? What hurts them? What fills them up? What drains them?

POINT 2: OUR UNIQUENESS IS BY DESIGN, NOT BY ACCIDENT

God didn’t accidentally make men and women different.

Genesis 1:27

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

Different wiring; Different perspectives; Different emotional processing

But here’s where we struggle: We expect the other person to love us the way we naturally give love.

That’s why: One feels unloved… The other feels unappreciated… …and both are trying (unsuccessfully) to make the relationship work.

BIG IDEA…

God made us different on purpose, so loving each other well takes understanding, patience, and humility.

Because God created each person with unique needs, perspectives, and ways of relating, healthy love requires us to understand those differences rather than fight against them.

POINT 3: LOVE AND RESPECT ARE FOUNDATIONAL NEEDS

Ephesians 5:33

However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Now let’s be clear: Both need love & Both need respect… But Scripture highlights a tendency: Men often respond strongly to respect and Women often respond deeply to love 

When a man feels disrespected → he withdraws or reacts

When a woman feels unloved → she disconnects or defends

BIG IDEA…

When basic needs of love and respect are missing, conflict multiplies.

POINT 4: STOP KEEPING SCORE AND START SERVING MORE

Scorekeeping is one of the fastest ways to damage a relationship and foster resentment.

“I did this…”  “You didn’t do that…” “I gave more…” 

Philippians 2:3–4

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Mark 10:45

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Jesus didn’t say: “Serve if they deserve it.”

Jesus modeled: Serve because that’s who you are!

BIG IDEA…

Strong marriages are built when both people stop measuring each other’s effort and start meeting each other’s needs. 

POINT 5: COMMUNICATION BUILDS OR BREAKS CONNECTION

Most couples don’t have a love problem… they have a communication problem.

James 1:19

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;

Too often we find ourselves being: quick to speak… slow to listen… and way too fast to react 

Proverbs 18:2

A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.

BIG IDEA…

If you listen to respond, you’ll miss understanding. If you listen to understand, you’ll build connection.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR LOVING EACH OTHER WELL

1. LEARN YOUR SPOUSE INTENTIONALLY

Ask questions; Study their needs 

Don’t assume—learn.

2. SPEAK THEIR LOVE LANGUAGE

Not what’s natural to you; What’s meaningful to them

Love is most powerful when it’s received.

3. PRACTICE DAILY ENCOURAGEMENT

Speak life and Affirm often

Your words build up or tear down.

4. SCHEDULE HEALTHY CONVERSATIONS

Not just reactive talks… but Intentional connection time

Don’t only talk when something’s wrong.

5. CHOOSE SERVICE OVER SCOREKEEPING

Do good without keeping track and Give freely

Grace sustains what scorekeeping destroys.

Some of you love each other…

but you’re not experiencing the relationship God intended…

because you haven’t learned how to love each other well yet.

But here’s the good news:

Love can grow

Understanding can increase and …

Your marriage can get stronger.

CONSISTENT PRAYER MOVING FORWARD…

“God, teach me how to love my spouse better.”

“Help me understand, not just react.”

“Break selfishness and build servant-hearted love in me for my spouse and for others.” 

DECLARATION

I will not love based on convenience. I will not love based on feelings alone. I choose to love with understanding. And when love is built on understanding and empowered by the finished work of Jesus… it lasts.

Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

BUILT TO LAST – God’s Plan for Love, Marriage & Family

Week 2 | Built on the Rock: The Foundation of a Godly Marriage

I want to start with a survey, if I asked you, “What’s the most important part of building a house?” How many of you would say the kitchen… How many of you would say the roof… How many of you would say maybe the design.

But the correct answer is the part nobody sees—the foundation.

Even with beautiful countertops, custom cabinets, high ceilings, but a weak  foundation… the house won’t survive the test of time and durability.

And here’s a tragic truth: We are living in a time where people are building beautiful weddings… but broken marriages.

Because we’ve focused on what’s seen— and IGNORED WHAT SUSTAINS.

If your marriage is going to be Built to Last, it must be built on the right foundation.

You cannot build THE RIGHT RELATIONSHIP on THE WRONG FOUNDATION.

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Matthew 7:24–25 (NIV)

Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.

Not the one who hears… BUT the one who puts into action or applies what they hear.

POINT 1: MARRIAGE IS A COVENANT, NOT A CONTRACT

Culture teaches contract: “As long as you meet my needs, I’ll stay.”

God teaches covenant and covenant says, “I’m committed—even when it’s hard.”

Genesis 2:24

Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

“Hold fast” = cling, cleave, stay connected.

Malachi 2:14

But you say, “Why does he not?” Because the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant.

BIG IDEA…

Contracts are based on conditions; Covenants are BUILT ON COMMITMENT.

A contract says: “I’ll stay if…” BUT a covenant says: “I’m here because…”

POINT 2: BUILD ON JESUS, NOT CULTURE

Culture says: “Follow your feelings” ; “Do what makes you happy” ; “If it stops working, walk away” 

But Jesus says in Matthew 7:24 Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.

A strong marriage is not built on chemistry or compatibility or convenience

A strong marriage is BUILT ON OBEDIENCE TO CHRIST.

Psalm 127:1

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

BIG IDEA…

If Jesus is not at the center of your marriage, something else will take His place—and it won’t be strong enough to hold it together.

If Jesus isn’t holding your marriage together, something weaker will try.

POINT 3: MARRIAGE IS DESIGNED TO REFLECT CHRIST

Marriage is not just about happiness— it’s also about representation.

Ephesians 5:25

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,

Marriage, which is a covenant, is a living picture of the Christ’s love; Christ’s sacrifice, and Christ’s commitment 

Ephesians 5:21

submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

BIG IDEA…

A strong marriage is built when both husband and wife choose to love, serve, and honor each other like Christ.

Marriage reflects Jesus most clearly when both people are committed to serving one another with humility, love, and sacrifice.

POINT 4: YOU DON’T FALL INTO A GREAT MARRIAGE—YOU BUILD A GREAT MARRIAGE

Nobody accidentally builds a strong marriage.

Galatians 6:7

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

You don’t reap love without sowing love; 

You don’t reap respect without giving respect; 

You don’t reap connection without investing time 

BIG IDEA…

Every marriage is the direct result of what has been consistently sown.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR BUILDING A STRONG MARRIAGE

1. PRIORITIZE TIME TOGETHER

Weekly connection time; Protect it like an appointment 

What you prioritize grows.

2. COMMUNICATE CLEARLY AND OFTEN

Say what you mean; Don’t expect mind-reading 

Clarity prevents conflict. (Clarity is CARING)

3. SERVE EACH OTHER DAILY

Small acts matter 

Serve without scorekeeping 

The strength of a marriage is shaped by the daily choice to love each other through practical acts of service.

4. PRAY TOGETHER

Even if it’s short… make a habit of Inviting God into your relationship

Couples who pray together stay connected spiritually.

5. ADDRESS ISSUES EARLY

Don’t let things pile up 

HEALTHY CONFLICT IS BETTER THAN SILENT DISTANCE 

A healthy marriage is strengthened when small issues are faced early, before they become deep wounds.

Some of you are trying to fix symptoms… when God is calling you to fix the foundation.

Because when challenges come— and they will— the question won’t be:

“Do you love each other?”

the question will be: “What is our marriage built on?”

CONSISTENT PRAYER MOVING FORWARD…

Married couples: “God, rebuild our foundation.” 

Engaged/dating: “God, help us build it right from the start.” 

Hurting marriages: “God, restore what we’ve allowed to weaken.” 

DECLARATION

Our marriage is not built on feelings. Our marriage is not built built on culture. Our marriage is built on Jesus. And whatever is built on Jesus…will stand.

Christianity rises or falls on a single claim.

Not a teaching, Not a value system, Not a moral philosophy… BUT ONE EVENT.

If Jesus rose from the dead — everything changes; If He didn’t — none of this matters.

Easter is not about springtime optimism… Easter is about a HISTORICAL INTERRUPTION that rewrote reality.

John doesn’t begin his recollection of Easter morning with celebration… He begins with grief.

THE SCENE: Hope Buried

John 20 tells us Mary Magdalene goes to the tomb while it is still dark.

She’s not expecting resurrection… She’s expecting to grieve.

The stone is rolled away — and her first conclusion isn’t hope… It’s loss.

She runs to tell the disciples: “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb…”

Even the closest followers of Jesus were not expecting Resurrection.

Resurrection was not even wishful thinking — BUT it was a shocking reality.

THE EMPTY TOMB: Evidence Before Explanation

Peter and John run to the tomb. They don’t find chaos… They find order.

The face cloth, which had been on Jesus head, folded up in a place by itself. The tomb is empty. And Death undone.

John wants us to know, beyond the shadow of a doubt: “He saw and believed.”

Not because he understood everything — but because the evidence demanded a response.

Our Christian faith is not blind belief… Our Christ-centered faith is BELIEF THAT IS ROOTED IN REALITY.

THE ENCOUNTER: Jesus Calls Her Name

Mary stays behind, weeping. She sees Jesus — and doesn’t recognize Him.

Grief has a way of blurring our vision.

Then Jesus says one word: “Mary.” …And everything changes.

The risen Jesus is not a distant idea — He is a personal Savior.

[RESURRECTION IS THE GREATEST MIRACLE…] because throughout this series, we’ve seen Jesus:

turn water into wine; heal a dying child; restore a paralyzed man; multiply bread; walk on water; give sight to the blind and call Lazarus from the grave… But Easter is different.

Every other miracle we have looked at delays death, But this miracle DEFEATS DEATH.

The resurrection is not just something Jesus did. The resurrection is WHO JESUS IS.

RESURRECTION CHANGES…

1. HOW WE SEE DEATH

Death is no longer the end — it’s a defeated enemy.

Jesus didn’t escape death — JESUS CONQUERED DEATH.

2. HOW WE SEE SUFFERING

Pain is no longer pointless.

The cross looked like failure — until Resurrection Sunday came.

God does His greatest work in places that look the most hopeless.

3. HOW WE LIVE TODAY

The resurrection is not just future hope — The RESURRECTION IS PRESENT POWER.

THE SAME POWER that raised Jesus now lives in those who trust Him.

HOW THE RESURRECTION STRENGTHENS OUR DAILY FAITH

1. WE ARE NEVER TOO FAR GONE

The tomb was sealed… The stone was heavy… The situation looked final.

And God still moved!

There is no sin, failure, or loss this beyond the reach of resurrection power.

2. GOD IS STILL WORKING IN THE DARK

Mary arrived while it was still dark — but the miracle had already happened.

Just because you can’t see it yet doesn’t mean God isn’t at work.

3. RESURRECTION POWER IS MEANT TO BE SHARED

The first command of the risen Jesus is simple: “Go and tell.”

Resurrection doesn’t end in amazement — it is launch of a life-changing mission.

CONNECTING THE ENTIRE SERIES

Every miracle in John pointed to this truth, the man Jesus is exactly who He says He is… Jesus is the Son of God!

The miracle of Water into wine → Jesus brings New life

The miracles of Healing → Jesus brings Restoration

The miracle of Provision → Jesus is MORE THAN ENOUGH

The miracle of Lazarus being raised of the dead → It is the Preview of the Life Giving, Death Defeating work that Jesus will do in the lives of people who He loves greatly

Easter / Resurrection Sunday is the miracle that explains them all.

CONCLUSION: 

Resurrection Changes Everything… Because Jesus is risen:

FORGIVENESS IS REAL

HOPE IS ALIVE

DEATH IS DEFEATED

YOUR STORY IS NOT OVER

The tomb is empty. Jesus is alive. And because He lives — everything changes.

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As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.” “Where is this man?” they asked him. “I don’t know,” he said.

The Pharisees Investigate the Healing

They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. Then they turned again to the blind man, “What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened.” The man replied, “He is a prophet.”

They still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who already had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue. That was why his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”

A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. “Give glory to God by telling the truth,” they said. “We know this man is a sinner.” He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” Then they asked him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” He answered, “I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples too?” Then they hurled insults at him and said, “You are this fellow’s disciple! We are disciples of Moses! We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don’t even know where he comes from.” The man answered, “Now that is remarkable! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will. Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” To this they replied, “You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!” And they threw him out.

Spiritual Blindness

Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?” Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.

INTRODUCTION: When Suffering Raises Questions

Some pain comes with a clear explanation. Other pain or suffering comes with questions that never seem to get answered. Why this? Why me? Why now?

John 9 opens with a man who has been blind since birth — not because of an accident, not because of a choice, but because this has always been his reality. And instead of immediately healing him, Jesus allows the moment to surface the deepest question we all ask when we encounter suffering: “Who’s at fault?”

But Jesus is about to reframe the entire conversation.

This miracle is not just about RESTORED SIGHT. This miracle is about LEARNING TO SEE GOD DIFFERENTLY.

THE QUESTION: Looking for Someone to Blame

The disciples see the blind man and ask Jesus: “Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”

This reflects a common belief: suffering must always be tied to personal failure.

But Jesus refuses that framework. “Neither this man nor his parents sinned… but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”

Jesus doesn’t explain suffering away — He redirects attention to God’s redemptive purpose.

THE HEALING: Obedience Before Understanding

Jesus spits on the ground, makes mud, and places it on the man’s eyes. This is unusual. Messy. Uncomfortable. Then He tells the man to go wash.

And the man goes — blind, vulnerable, trusting. He doesn’t ask questions.

He doesn’t demand clarity. He obeys.

And when he washes — he sees.

Sometimes THE MIRACLE IS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF OBEDIENCE we don’t fully understand.

THE AFTERMATH: When Your Miracle Disrupts Others

The neighbors are confused; The Pharisees are threatened. Instead of celebrating the miracle, they interrogate it.

This man’s healing challenges their systems, assumptions, and authority.

Miracles will often disturb people who are comfortable with things staying the same.

THE TESTIMONY: Simple Faith, Growing Courage

When questioned, the man doesn’t give theological arguments. He gives testimony: “I was blind, but now I see.” That’s it.

He doesn’t know everything about Jesus yet — but he knows what Jesus did for him. And as the pressure increases, his faith grows stronger.

A lot of times, CLARITY COMES AFTER OBEDIENCE.

THE FINAL REVEAL: True Sight

Later, Jesus finds the man and asks if he believes in the Son of Man.

The man responds honestly: “Who is He, sir? Tell me so that I may believe in Him.”

Jesus reveals Himself; And the man worships.

Maybe the most tragic thing is the Pharisees — who can physically see — remain spiritually blind.

Jesus closes with a sobering truth: Some who think they see… don’t.

And some who know they’re blind… are ready to see.

WHY THIS MIRACLE MATTERS FOR US

This miracle reminds us:

The process of healing DOES NOT MEAN YOU’LL HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS YOU DESIRE FIRST

OBEDIENCE often PRECEDES CLARITY

ENCOUNTERING JESUS changes how we, literally and spiritually, see everything

PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS

HOW THIS MIRACLE STRENGTHENS OUR DAILY FAITH

1. Stop Assigning Blame — START LOOKING FOR GOD’S WORK

Jesus refused to blame the man or his parents.

Faith grows when we stop asking “Who’s at fault?” and start asking “What’s the opportunity for God to work here?”

2. OBEY Even When the Process Feels Uncomfortable

The healing came through mud and washing — not explanation.

God will use an imperfect processes to produce perfect outcomes.

Ask yourself: What obedience have I been postponing because I want answers first?

3. SHARE WHAT YOU KNOW — Not What You Don’t Know

The man’s testimony was simple — and powerful.

You don’t need all the answers to point others to Jesus. Your story is enough!

CONCLUSION: Seeing Clearly

Jesus didn’t just give this man sight — JESUS GAVE HIM VISION.

And the same Jesus still invites us to see…

ourselves differently

the things we’re suffering differently

Him more clearly

If you find yourself “blind” today and don’t have all the answers as to “why”… JESUS IS READY TO OPEN YOUR EYES

When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

INTRODUCTION: When Obedience Leads You Into the Storm

We often assume that obedience leads to calm waters. We often assume that if we follow Jesus closely enough, storms will somehow miss us.

But John 6 reminds us that sometimes the storm doesn’t come because we disobeyed — sometimes THE STORM COMES BECAUSE WE OBEYED.

The disciples are in the middle of God’s will… and still fighting the wind.

This miracle is not about Jesus showing off His power over nature.

It’s about REVEALING HIS PRESENCE IN THE MIDDLE OF FEAR.

THE SETTING: Obedience Without Jesus in the Boat

After feeding the 5,000, Jesus sends the disciples ahead by boat… Night falls.

The sea grows rough… The wind intensifies. 

John says something subtle but important: “Jesus had not yet joined them.”

They are obeying — but they feel alone… And I’m guessing that many of us can relate to that feeling.

We’re literally doing what Jesus asked… yet still exhausted, afraid, and overwhelmed.

THE STRUGGLE: Making Progress Without Peace

The disciples row hard… They’re not idle… They’re not careless… They’re fighting the storm with all their strength.

But the harder they row, the more obvious it becomes: effort alone won’t save them.

Some storms are DESIGNED TO EXPOSE THE LIMITS OF HUMAN STRENGTH.

JESUS’ APPROACH: Power Revealed in the Storm

[AND THE MIDDLE OF THE STORM…] while they are giving everything they have and still not making progress… Jesus comes to them walking on the water.

This isn’t just dramatic — it’s deeply symbolic.

The thing that threatens them becomes the surface underneath His feet.

What FEELS UNCONTROLLABLE to us IS COMPLETELY UNDER HIS AUTHORITY.

But instead of comfort, fear intensifies. They think He’s a ghost.

Fear distorts perception.

Sometimes God is closer than we realize — but we just don’t recognize Him in the storm.

JESUS’ WORDS: Peace Has a Voice

Then Jesus speaks: “It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

That phrase matters. Jesus isn’t just identifying Himself — He’s revealing His authority.

John does not clearly state whether the storms stops immediately or not… But what John clearly communicates is the fact that peace enters the boat when Jesus does… And sometimes that’s the miracle… HOLY PRESENCE BEFORE CIRCUMSTANTIAL CALM

John tells us that once Jesus enters the boat, they immediately reach their destination.

Take a close look at the order:

fear first || presence next || then arrival follows

Jesus doesn’t always calm the storm first… Sometimes He calms US first.

WHY THIS MIRACLE MATTERS FOR US

Storms come to everyone.

Faith doesn’t exempt us from hardship — But Faith anchors us in the midst of the hardship.

JESUS WALKING ON WATER REMINDS US…

Jesus is not overwhelmed by what overwhelms us

Jesus meets us where fear feels strongest

Jesus’ presence changes everything

THREE PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS

HOW THIS MIRACLE STRENGTHENS OUR DAILY FAITH

1. OBEDIENCE DOES NOT ELIMINATE STORMS

The disciples were doing exactly what Jesus told them to do.

If you’re facing resistance, it doesn’t mean you missed God — it may mean you’re exactly where He wants you.

(Agape facing opposition from the neighbors)

2. DON’T LET FEAR REDEFINE GOD’S PRESENCE

Fear caused the disciples to misidentify Jesus.

When anxiety is high, clarity is low.

Ask yourself: Could Jesus be closer than I think — even in this storm?

3. PEACE COMES FROM WHO IS WITH YOU, Not What You’re In

Peace arrived when Jesus entered the boat.

Our peace isn’t rooted in calm circumstances — it’s rooted in the presence of Jesus!

CONCLUSION: Let Him In the Boat

Jesus doesn’t shout from the shore. He comes to you — right where the waves are crashing.

And He’s still saying the same thing: “It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

If you’ll let Him into your fear… you’ll find peace — even before the storm passes.

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Website: agape.church

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Every believer reaches a moment when faith is tested—when prayers feel delayed, obedience feels unnoticed, and trust feels costly. In those moments, Scripture reminds us that God does not change. He is faithful, not because of our strength, but because of His nature.

God describes Himself as “abounding in love and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6–7). The Hebrew word for faithfulness, ’emet, means stable, reliable, and trustworthy—something you can lean on with confidence. This same word describes Moses’ steady hands in battle (Exodus 17) and the trustworthy leaders of Israel (Exodus 18:21).

Throughout Scripture, God proves His faithfulness again and again. Abraham trusted God’s promise despite impossible circumstances, and his faith was credited as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). Israel believed God after the Red Sea (Exodus 14:31) but struggled to trust Him when fear outweighed promise—teaching us that faith is not believing God exists, but believing God is faithful.

David trusted God in the face of giants and “walked in ’emet” before the Lord (1 Kings 3:6). God promised David a kingdom established forever (2 Samuel 7:16), even when Israel later questioned God’s faithfulness in exile (Psalm 89:49).

The New Testament answers that question through Jesus. Introduced as the Son of David and the Son of Abraham (Matthew 1:1), Jesus is the fulfillment of every promise. Through Him, God confirms His faithfulness to His covenant (Romans 15:8–9). Jesus is God’s faithfulness in human form—the unshakable Rock and eternal King.

Because God is faithful, His promises still stand, He will not abandon His people, and our future is secure. Our response is trust—to he’emin, to “amen” God—leaning our full weight on the One who is completely reliable. The story of Scripture, and the story of our lives, is the story of the God who remains faithful from beginning to end.

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THE GOD WHO IS… Overflowing with Loyal Love

Have you ever filled out a job application and they say “tell us about yourself – describe your personality ; your core values”. You know what you write down is going to reveal whether you are qualified or the right fit for the job…  

If you started out, “I’m basically a good guy… sharp, creative, personable, responsible…. BUT don’t mess with me before my coffee in the morning – whoa – I can be grumpy and moody… 

Or Im pretty organized, but don’t look in my closet… 

Or I’m patient – I get along with people but there’s things that push my buttons… whoa unto you if you do… THE BEAR COMES OUT OF THE CAVE…

This would not be recommended if you are looking for a job in HR

Sociologists say, there are over 4,000 religions in the world – cut and pasted from ancient beliefs and creeds as well as modern day thought…. Many of them with the same question – WHO ARE YOU GOD? 

Today – we are going to look again about what God says about Himself

WE ARE IN SERIES – THE GOD WHO IS…

Looking at the history of the Children of Israel – the Israelites

God has chosen them to reveal Himself to the whole world – His nature, His desires, His eternal plan.

He promises to keep a covenant with them that He made to their forefathers 1000 years prior – that He would be there God… 

Fast forward – the foundation of that covenant is now extended through Christ to you and me – That He would be Our God

As God begins to form and develop the Israelites into His People – essentially Moses asks the same questions in the book of Exodus 33 _ He asks God to reveal Himself  -  in Exodus 34… 

Only a few times in Scripture – God describes Himself – His character and nature – our anchor text is the moment when God reveals His own character:

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Exodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious

God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. 

Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.

We’ve looked at God’s “Self Description:

Compassionate — a God moved in His deepest being by our pain.

Gracious — a God who gives delightfully undeserved gifts.

Slow to anger — a God who is patient and does not rush to judgment.

Today we come to the fourth phrase:

“abounding in love” — or as we’ll say it: “overflowing with loyal love.”

LET’S TALK ABOUT “LOYAL LOVE”

INTRODUCTION — WHEN SOMEONE STAYS

Most of us know what it feels like to wonder if someone will stay.

You messed up in a relationship…

You failed to follow through on a promise…

You disappointed someone who believed in you…

And deep down, you’re asking:

“Are you still here? Or is this the moment you walk away?”

Think about those rare moments when instead of walking away, that person

looks you in the eye and says:

“I’m hurt - I’m honest about that…but I’m not going anywhere.

I made a promise, and I intend to keep it.”

That is more than forgiveness.  That is more than a second chance.

That is a kind of stubborn grace — a love that doesn’t just pardon you, it stays with you.

In Scripture, that stubborn, promise-keeping, staying love is not just something God does…It is something God is.

I. THE HEBREW WORD —KHESED חֶסֶ (Khawsed) 

The word translated “love” here is the Hebrew word khesed (חֶסֶד).

KHESED IS ONE OF THE RICHEST, HARDEST-TO-TRANSLATE WORDS IN THE ENTIRE BIBLE.

NO SINGLE ENGLISH WORD CAPTURES IT.

It combines these qualities:

Love – genuine affection and care.

Generosity – going above and beyond what’s required.

Enduring commitment – a promise that sticks, even when it hurts.

So you’ll see it translated in Bible versions as:

“steadfast love”

“great love”

“unfailing love”

“lovingkindness”

“mercy”

“loyal love”

Khesed describes promise-keeping loyalty motivated by deep personal

care.

How do we contrast it to our ”natural love”, our transactional love? 

Not contract.

Not cold obligation.

Not “I’ll do my part if you do yours.”

Khesed is:

“I’m not leaving.

I’m not quitting.

I’m not withdrawing my heart.”

My commitment is not based on your performance, but based on my character of keeping vows, looking passed flaws; being quick to forgive; knowing your potential, trusting your growth; and believing the best;

DO YOU HAVE ANY FRIENDS LIKE THAT? COVENANT FRIENDS? I’M BLESSED TO HAVE SOME IN THIS ROOM … 

Oris Martin’s memorial – his daughter was paying tribute to her dad – About his “Loyal Love To Her”

HE SAID – “I ll always have your back” 

MORE DESCRIPTIVE  - ‘I’LL HAVE YOUR BACK LIKE A TIGHT BRA STRAP” 

(Im going to archive this) 

II. RUTH — The Lord gave us a s story to reveal it - A HUMAN PICTURE OF KHESED

One of the clearest illustrations of khesed is found in the OT book of Ruth.

Ruth is a Moabite woman from an outside tribe – she  married into an Israelite family.

Her husband dies.

His brother dies. – according to custom – next in line to provide

Her father-in-law dies – last line of support

All that’s left are three widows: Naomi is Ruth’s mother-in -law… left with the other two widowed daughters-in-law.

Naomi has nothing left to offer.

No income.

No security.

No future.

She tells Ruth“

Go back to your people. Start over. There’s nothing for you with me.”

From a human perspective, the logical thing is to leave.

But Ruth does the opposite.

She says, in essence:

“Where you go, I’ll go.

Your people will be my people.

Your God will be my God.

I will stay with you—until death.”

She binds her future to Naomi’s empty future.

She chooses the hard, costly road of staying.

And as the story unfolds and people watch Ruth keep this promise, they call her faithfulness acts of khesed (see Ruth 3:10–11).

Ruth’s khesed is not based on Naomi’s usefulness, worth, or ability to repay.

It is a window into Ruth’s character.

She is a person of loyal love.

She is a person of generous, promise-keeping commitment.

And that is what khesed looks like in human form.

III. GOD’S KHESED TO JACOB — LOYAL LOVE TO A DECEIVER

But as inspiring as Ruth is, the Bible is clear: No one shows more khesed than God.

From earlier generations - Take Jacob – son of Issac

Jacob is not a moral hero.

He lies.

He deceives his father.

He cheats his brother.

He manipulates situations for his own advantage.

Yet God chooses Jacob.

God repeats to him the promise He gave to Jacob’s  grandfather- Abraham:

“I’m going to bless you, give you many descendants,

 and through your family I will bless the nations.”

Jacob runs away in fear and shame.

For twenty years he lives in exile.

Then, on the way back home, terrified of facing his brother, Esau – whom he has cheated for his birthright, Jacob prays:

Genesis 32:10 (ESV)

“I am not worthy of the least of all the deeds of khesed (steadfast love) and all the faithfulness that you have shown to your servant, for with only my staff I crossed this Jordan, and now I have become two camps.”

Jacob is right.

He is not worthy.

But that’s the point.

God’s khesed was never based on Jacob’s worth.

It was never “If you perform, I’ll stay.”

It was always “I have chosen you, and I am committed to My promise.”

God’s khesed is a display of God’s generous loyalty, not Jacob’s behavior.

IV. GOD’S KHESED TO ISRAEL — HE KEEPS RESCUING

God’s khesed continues into the story of Jacob’s descendants—Israel.

They end up enslaved in Egypt for hundreds of years.

We’re told that God “remembers His covenant” with Abraham and Jacob.

To “remember” in Hebrew doesn’t mean God forgot.

It means God is about to act in faithfulness to His promise.

So God defeats Egypt, raises up Moses, and leads Israel toward the promised

land.

In the song of Moses, after the Red Sea, they sing:

Exodus 15:13 (ESV)

“You have led in your steadfast love (khesed) the people whom you have

redeemed…”

Their liberation is called an act of khesed because God is keeping His word.

But the story doesn’t stay triumphant for long.

On the way to the promised land, Israel sees the nations around them, and fear

grips their hearts.

They doubt that God can protect them.

They talk about appointing a new leader to take them back to slavery in Egypt.

They are ready to kill Moses.

LET THAT SINK IN:

God has rescued them.

God has provided for them.

God has revealed Himself to them.

And they want to go back to bondage.

God is understandably hurt and angry.

But in Numbers 14, Moses intercedes:

Numbers 14:19 (NIV) “In accordance with your great love (khesed), forgive the sin of these people…”

Moses doesn’t base his request on Israel’s behavior.

He bases it on God’s character.

“God, be who You are. Do what is consistent with Your khesed.”

And God does. He forgives.

He recommits Himself to a people who don’t want to be committed to Him.

V. HUMAN LOVE VS. GOD’S LOYAL LOVE

In the Bible, God is loyal and loving for no other reason than that’s who He is.

Of course, God desires His people to respond with khesed in return—

to love Him truly, to keep covenant, to love others with the same loyal love.

But even when they don’t… God’s khesed remains.

The prophet Hosea says:

Hosea 6:4 - Israel’s khesed is “like the morning mist” —

here one moment, gone the next.

Our loyalty is often fragile.

Our commitment is often temporary.

Our promises are often conditional.

But God’s khesed is enduring.

That’s why Psalm 136 opens with:

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good…”

And then repeats 26 times:

“for His khesed (steadfast love) endures forever.”

Over creation.

Over history.

Over rebellion.

Over enemies.

Over everything.

God’s loyal love outlasts human unfaithfulness.

VI. JESUS — THE FULLNESS OF GOD’S LOYAL LOVE

After centuries of Israel breaking their covenant,

and after humanity’s long history of violence, idolatry, and death…

God still keeps His promise in the most dramatic way possible:

He becomes human.

In Jesus, God binds Himself to us in a new and deeper way.

The New Testament writers reach for words like:

agapē (ἀγάπη) – self-giving, sacrificial love.

eleos (ἔλεος) – mercy, compassion in action.

charis (χάρις) – gracious gift, undeserved favor.

All of these overlap with the Old Testament idea of khesed.

In John 1, we’re told that Jesus comes “full of grace and truth.”

That phrase “grace and truth” echoes the Hebrew pairing khesed we’emet —

“loyal love and faithfulness.”

The early followers of Jesus looked at Him and said:

“In Him, we have encountered the God of Israel

who is full of loyal love and faithfulness.”

Jesus is:

The ultimate loyal and loving human,

The perfect image of God’s khesed in a human life,

The one who loves “to the end” (John 13:1).

In His life, death, and resurrection, God opens a new future for us and all

creation.

Not because we earned it…But because this is who God is:

Generous.

Loving.

Eternally loyal to His promises.

VII. WHEN GOD’S LOYAL LOVE TOUCHES US

When we truly experience the purity and power of God’s loyal love shown

through Jesus, it doesn’t leave us neutral.

It compels us.

It moves us.

It reorients us.

We begin to reimagine:

Why we love God.

How we love people.

What commitment looks like in a world of easy exits.

Because if this kind of khesed is in God’s character,

it should begin to show up in our character.

VIII. HOW WE SHOW KHESED BACK TO GOD AND OTHERS

1. Khesed toward God — measured and revealed in faithful devotion, not occasional attention.

If God has bound Himself to us in covenant love, we respond not with “casual spirituality,” but with whole-hearted devotion.

Choosing Him when it’s costly.

Trusting Him when we don’t see the way.

Obeying Him when it would be easier to compromise.

We don’t earn His khesed by doing this.

We reflect His khesed by doing this.

2. Khesed toward people — “Staying” love in a Leaving world.

We live in a culture of:

ghosting,

cancelling,

quitting,

disposable relationships.

God calls His people to a different way:

In marriage: keeping vows when feelings fluctuate.

In friendship: showing up when there’s nothing to gain.

In church: staying engaged, serving, forgiving, building, instead of

bouncing at the first offense.

In community: caring for the vulnerable when they can’t pay you back.

ILLUST: MARRIAGE - I CHOOSE YOU… OVER AND OVER AGAIN – 45 YEARS

In marriage, I chose you and I choose you again

When I first begin to date… sitting in her living room – 2 phone calls from different guys – no cell phones or voicemails… I think- shes got a few choices 

 Then she tells me a “friend” from UCSB is coming down… wants to go to dinner

Fine.. no problem… you are friends… “God, if Jan is the one it will all work out”… sitting there watching ‘sports center:… 

How good of friends are they?  AM I THE CHOSEN ONE? - “God if he tries to kiss her – take a coal from your altar and scorch his lips”

A desire to be chosen… our commitment to that choice has protected our vows for 45 years

   Khesed IS COVENENTAL LOVE . IT says:

“Even when you’re empty, I won’t withdraw.

Even when this is hard, I won’t run.

Even when you have little to offer, I’ll keep showing up.”

Not because people always deserve it, but because God is forming His loyal love in us.

3. Khesed toward the undeserving — because that’s how God loved us.

Remember Jacob.

Remember Israel.

Remember you.

We love with khesed not because people have earned it,

but because God extended it to us first.

“We love because He first loved us.”

Story –  I’ll call him “ Bryan” (Ryan Inclan) – from Passover Days- 25 years ago

Paul Rogers from Intervarsity invited him

Bryan - Struggling w faith and as much with identity and habits

Paul moved – asked me if I would stay in touch with Bryan – and asked if he could give Bryan my number – I naively said “yes” not really knowing what that would mean - 

That was probably 25 years ago… Bryan died about a month ago now. 

Bryan moved to the Bay Area - fought major Bipolar Disorder along with several other Psychological disorders,

He’d call up, friendly, hopeful. In a small group - happy

Then weeks later - Midnight texts – desperate, self -hating… just been online doing things in chat rooms – struggling with sexual identity… pray for me

I’d leave scripture messages – reinforcing this is Who You Are Now… encouraging him to connect with a church – he tried several churches – goes good – then collapses; there was always an enemy – somebody hurt him; offended him; doesn’t understand him

Through the years - Dad dies; mother dies… desperation

Paul & I drove to SF to get him in a psych hospital

Then Weeks – no communication… maybe he’s better… connected with a local group… no… in relapse… hiding… ashamed

Two months later -  manic weeks – all is better… I found a mens group – im praying again

MANY TIMES – Im done… You are way beyond my comfort zone… And my pay grade

Somehow we would re-connect – late night  1 hr caounseling calls … Jan would shake her head

He got liver cancer about 6 months ago… Me and a group of people on a Text thread – praying emoji’s, heart emoji’s… encouraging words and prayers

He died in peace, believing – 

GOSPELS – Guys tearing open a roof to lower a friend down to be healed.  For 25 years – tearing off guilt, shame, mental torment in short seasons of relief…

Bryan finally made it – now he is healed

IX. PRACTICAL QUESTIONS FOR OUR HEARTS

Where am I tempted to walk away instead of stay?

Where am I loving only as long as it benefits me?

Where is God calling me to reflect His loyal love by keeping a promise,

extending grace, or refusing to give up?

And deeper still:

Where have I underestimated God’s loyalty to me?

Some of you live like God is one failure away from leaving.

In Exodus 34 and the whole story of Scripture shout:

“His khesed endures forever.”

His love Is LOYAL – so much so that:

He may discipline. He may confront. But all for your best interest

He may hand you over to the consequences of your choices for a season, so we see clearly the destructive paths we are on.

He does not abandon His promises to be with you and guide you through.

He does not abandon His people. He is an Everlasting Father.

He does not abandon His plan of redemption – toward you or anyone who calls upon Him

CONCLUSION — THE GOD WHO WILL NOT LET GO

So when God says of Himself:

“I am abounding in love…”

He is saying:

“I am overflowing with khesed

—with loyal, generous, enduring love.

I keep My promises.

I stay.

I do not quit on what I have begun.”

Jesus is the ultimate proof of that.

He stepped into our story.

He took on our flesh.

He bore our sin.

He rose with new life.

He promised to be with us “always, even to the end of the age.”

This is THE GOD WHO IS OVERFLOWING WITH LOYAL LOVE.

And if that is who He is, then by the power of His Spirit,

that is who He is shaping us to become.

ALTAR CALL… He is loyal in his love for us… Even when we aren’t feeling it

Maybe this is new to you – this foreign kind of unconditional love – it was for me – works based

Maybe you sense it right now – he does love you; He wants you to know him… and enter into this Loyal Love we are talking about.

You might say – “I’ll never be able to keep my end of the deal… I‘ve got too much stuff going on… 

Yea – but I can say “you’ve never been loved like this before…” It’s transformative

It starts w Romans 10:9-10 – a vow 

Altar Call – side room 

you sense He’s pulled back or away from you… But I would ask… Have you pulled back from Him

There are places and things He won’t condone or endorse… again It’s about love… 

Strength to break free and walk it out..

As we close – make a commitment to come up here

Next time, we’ll look at the fifth trait in this powerful description:

“THE GOD WHO IS FAITHFUL.” 

But today, may we rest in His loyal love,

and may we mirror that loyal love

to a world that desperately needs to see it.  

Slow To Anger

INTRODUCTION — WHEN GOD DIDN’T REACT LIKE YOU EXPECTED

Have you ever looked back on a moment in your life—a season, a decision, a rebellion—and thought: “I’m shocked God didn’t give up on me.”

Maybe it was a failure you repeated more times than you want to admit.

Maybe it was a habit you just couldn’t break. Maybe it was a time you knew better… but didn’t do better. Maybe it was a moment where you assumed God must be frustrated, disappointed, even angry.

But instead of God reacting in hot anger… He responded with patience.

Instead of the “strike you down” version of God that some of us grew up hearing about… You found a God who slowed His steps, softened His tone, and continued to walk with you.

That is not weakness.

That is not God overlooking sin.

That is not God compromising His holiness.

That is the character of God as revealed by God Himself.

Today we come to the third phrase in the most repeated self-description God gives in the entire Bible:

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Exodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,

slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.

[FOR SO MANY PEOPLE…] this is the phrase that surprises them most: “Slow to anger.” Let’s dive in to what God really means when He says this.

I. THE HEBREW PHRASE — ’EREK ’APPAYIM (“LONG OF NOSE”)

The Hebrew phrase translated “slow to anger” is: ’erekh ’appayim (אֶרֶךְ אַפַּיִם)

Literally: “long of nostrils” or “long-nosed.”

Now, before you picture God with an exaggerated cartoon nose… This is a Hebrew idiom built on the physical experience of anger.

In Hebrew:

“angry” = “nose burns hot”

“deep anger” = “hot nostrils”

When Potiphar believed Joseph tried to sleep with his wife, Scripture says:

“his nose burned hot.”

When someone’s anger flares, their face gets hot.

[SO IN THE HEBREW IMAGINATION…] A patient person is “long-nosed.” It takes a very long time for their anger to heat up.

This is why Proverbs 19:11 says: Proverbs 19:11 (NIV) A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”

Hebrew: “A person’s wisdom makes them long of nose.”

Wisdom lengthens your fuse.

And God—according to God—is THE MOST “LONG-NOSED,” PATIENT, SLOW-TO-ANGER BEING IN THE UNIVERSE.

II. GOD DOES GET ANGRY — BUT NOT LIKE WE DO

Let’s hit this misconception about God head-on: God is not an angry deity waiting for people to mess up. But the Bible does talk about God getting angry.

[SO HOW DO WE…] hold these two truthful statements together?

1. GOD’S ANGER IS A METAPHOR, not a mood swing.

God doesn’t literally have a nose. He doesn’t flare His nostrils or turn red. 

Hebrew uses human body language to communicate divine emotion.

2. God’s anger is HIS RESPONSE TO HUMAN EVIL, not human inconvenience.

God is not irritated. He is not moody. He does not lash out because He lost His temper.

God’s anger is HIS JUSTICE AND HIS COMPASSION WORKING TOGETHER against anything that destroys His creation.

[THINK ABOUT IT…]

If you saw a child being bullied and didn’t feel anger— something would be wrong with your heart.

God feels anger when His world is vandalized by human evil.

BUT— God is slow to anger. God gives people an enormous amount of time to change.

III. GOD’S PATIENCE IN THE EXODUS STORY

Let’s look at Exodus 3 and the Ten Plagues

Pharaoh enslaves Israel. Pharaoh orders Hebrew baby boys to be thrown into the Nile. Pharaoh crushes God’s people under violence and oppression.

God sees it; God hears it; God feels it; And God sends Moses. But notice what God does: God gives Pharaoh ten opportunities to repent. TEN.

God could have judged him instantly… Instead—God delays judgment.

But when Pharaoh continues to harden his heart and finally rides out with his chariots to destroy Israel… God allows Pharaoh’s own evil to rebound onto him.

The waters that drowned Hebrew children now drown Pharaoh’s army.

The Bible calls this an act of God’s “hot anger.”

[BUT DON’T MISS THIS VERY IMPORTANT KEY POINT…] God’s anger ARRIVES ONLY AFTER ABUNDANT PATIENCE.

And God’s judgment is not arbitrary— It is God handing Pharaoh over to the consequences of his own choices.

IV. “HANDING OVER” IS THE PRIMARY EXPRESSION OF GOD’S ANGER

This is one of the most important insights in Scripture: **God’s anger is not God exploding. God’s anger is God withdrawing.**

God steps back. God removes Himself as the buffer. God allows people to experience the full weight of their own decisions.

You see this pattern everywhere throughout scripture…

[IN THE BOOK OF JUDGES…] For hundreds of years Israel repeatedly turns from God, worships idols, oppresses the vulnerable, and abandons the covenant.

Scripture repeatedly says things like: Judges 2:14 (ESV) The anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and He gave them over to plunderers…”

Not because God abandoned His people— but because God allowed them to taste where their choices were leading.

[IN ROMANS 1…] Paul says the same thing three times: “God gave them over…” “God handed them over…” “God turned them over…”

This is DIVINE JUDGMENT— not lightning bolts, BUT consequences.

God lets people walk the path they insist on walking, even when that path leads to their ruin.

BUT… and this is crucial that we understand… Even in judgment, GOD IS PATIENT, LONGING FOR REPENTANCE.

[SO LET’S LOOK AT SOME…] KEY TRUTHS ABOUT GOD’S ANGER

1. God’s anger is ALWAYS A RESPONSE TO HUMAN EVIL.

Never to inconvenience. Never to annoyance. Never because He’s just “had enough.”

2. God’s anger FLOWS FROM HIS COMPASSION AND LOYAL LOVE.

If God didn’t care, He wouldn’t get angry.

INDIFFERENCE IS THE OPPOSITE OF LOVE, not anger.

3. God’s anger is HIS REFUSAL TO LET HUMANS SIT FOREVER IN SELF-DESTRUCTION.

He will not allow sin to reign unchallenged. He will confront evil because He is good.

4. God’s anger SERVES HIS MISSION TO RESCUE.

Anger is not the end… Restoration is.

God’s justice CLEARS THE WAY FOR GOD’S MERCY.

[AND THIS IS WHERE WE FIND JESUS…]

JESUS IS WHERE GOD’S ANGER AND GOD’S LOVE MEET PERFECTLY

Jesus reveals the heart of God more clearly than anyone.

In John 3:16, Jesus says He is going to Jerusalem to die as the expression of God’s love for His enemies.

That means Jesus does not simply teach about God’s patience—

JESUS EMBODIES PATIENCE.

Jesus stands in the place of people choosing self-destruction and absorbs the consequences of their choices into Himself.

On the cross:

We see God’s anger against sin.

On the cross, We see God’s love for sinners.

On the cross, We see justice and mercy come together.

On the cross, We see wrath swallowed by grace.

On the cross, We see sinners rescued instead of ruined.

THE CROSS is THE ULTIMATE ACT OF THE GOD WHO IS SLOW TO ANGER.

[SO THE QUESTION IS…] WHAT DOES “SLOW TO ANGER” MEAN FOR US?

1. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD’S PATIENCE IS FAR GREATER THAN OUR FAILURES.

If He wasn’t done with Pharaoh after nine chances, He isn’t done with you after your mistakes.

2. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD GIVES TIME FOR REPENTANCE.

Every delay in judgment is an invitation to return.

3. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD CONFRONTS EVIL, but NEVER IN A WAY THAT CONTRADICTS HIS COMPASSION.

Divine anger is always aimed at restoration.

4. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD WILL NOT FORCE YOU TO CHOOSE LIFE, but HE WILL LET YOU FEEL WHERE DEATH LEADS.

Not because He doesn’t love you— but because He loves you too much to lie to you.

5. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, YOU CAN ALWAYS COME HOME, ALWAYS!

If you are still breathing, God is still inviting.

[SO…] WHAT SHOULD WE DO WITH THIS (How do we apply it to our lives)?

Allow God to CONFRONT YOUR DESTRUCTIVE PATTERNS.

He is slow to anger… not absent of anger.

DON’T MISTAKE GOD’S PATIENCE FOR PERMISSION.

Delayed consequences are not divine approval. They are divine mercy.

SURRENDER WHAT KEEPS LEADING YOU TO RUIN.

Sin always promises life but delivers death. God always promises truth and delivers freedom.

Trust the GOD WHOSE ANGER AND LOVE WORK TOGETHER TO SAVE.

He is not trying to destroy you. He is trying to rescue you.

CONCLUSION

GOD’S PATIENCE IS PART OF GOD’S LOVE

When God describes Himself as “slow to anger,” He is not saying He never gets angry. He is not saying He doesn’t take sin seriously. He is not saying He ignores evil.

He is saying: “My anger is PATIENT, PURPOSEFUL, and AIMED AT REDEMPTION.”

God delays judgment so He can extend mercy.

God holds back wrath so He can offer grace.

God gives space for repentance because He loves His creation.

This is the heart of THE GOD WHO IS SLOW TO ANGER.

And this is THE GOD JESUS REVEALS… the God who takes our self-destructive choices upon Himself so we can receive forgiveness, life, and restoration.

Maybe you made a huge mistake at work, and instead of firing you, the boss covered for you. Maybe you hurt someone deeply, and instead of shutting the door, they forgave you. Maybe you received a gift you absolutely could not repay—a scholarship, a meal, a chance, an open door, a second start you didn’t deserve. Have you ever had someone treat you… not according to what you deserved, but according to the goodness in their heart?

That is grace.

But God’s grace is something infinitely more. Because God’s grace doesn’t come from a human heart that might change its mind, second-guess itself, or run out of compassion. God’s grace flows from His very nature. It is who He is; It is how He moves; It is how He relates to humanity.

[AND JUST LIKE LAST WEEK…] we return to the verse where God reveals His own character in the most repeated self-description in the entire Bible.

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Exodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not

leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.

I. THE HEBREW WORD FOR GRACE — KHANUN

When God revealed Himself to Moses, He said He is “gracious.” The Hebrew word is KHANUN (HA-noon) ḥannûn (חַנּוּן).

It comes from the root KHEN (HEN) ḥên (חֵן), a rich and beautiful word that means: Grace; favor; delight; a gift freely given out of pleasure, not obligation. Before “grace” was a theological concept, ḥên was a word used in everyday life. It described beauty that captures the heart, favor that surprises you, and gifts that delight the giver as much as the receiver.

II. WHAT ḤÊN LOOKS LIKE IN SCRIPTURE

A. ḤÊN as Beauty and Delight

In the Psalms, a gifted poet is described as having “lips of ḥên”—words that are so skillfully crafted they bring delight.

--> A beautiful necklace or piece of jewelry is called an “ornament of ḥên” because it draws the eye, stirs joy, and invites delight. So before ḥên was about forgiveness… It was about favor flowing from delight.

B. ḤÊN as a Favorable Gift

Ḥên often describes a generous gift given because someone delights in another person.

-->In the book of Esther, when Esther approaches King Xerxes at the risk of her life, she calls her request a “plea for ḥên.” And the king grants it—not because she deserved it, but because he favored her. He delighted in

her. He showed her grace.

C. The Most Extreme ḤÊN — When Someone Deserves the Opposite The deepest form of ḥên is when grace is shown to someone who deserves judgment or distance.

--> This is what happens with Jacob and Esau. Jacob deceived Esau. He stole his blessing and ran away for twenty years. When he finally returns, Jacob prays, “May I find ḥên—favor, grace—in your eyes.” Jacob isn’t asking for fairness. He’s asking for a gift he absolutely does not deserve. And shockingly— Esau gives it. He runs to Jacob. He embraces Jacob. He delights in Jacob. He gives him ḥên.

III. GOD SHOWS MORE ḤÊN THAN ANYONE

If humans can occasionally show grace like this… God shows it continually. The story of the golden calf in Exodus makes this clear. God rescues Israel from slavery, loves them, provides for them, and enters

covenant with them. And within weeks—weeks!—they turn and worship a golden idol. God had every right to walk away. Every right to judge. Every right to start over… But Moses intercedes and asks God for something radical: “Lord, give Your people ḥên; Give us a gift we do not deserve; Give us a promise we have

not earned; Give us Yourself… And God says YES. He forgives them; He renews the covenant; He promises His

presence will go with them. That is ḥannûn. That is gracious.

IV. GOD’S GRACE IS CONSISTENT AND RELIABLE

This trait—God’s grace—is so reliable that in the Psalms alone, people cry out

for God’s ḥên over 40 times: when sick; when oppressed; when guilty; when exiled; when facing enemies; when crushed under their own failures… And every time, God responds out of His character— with grace. The prophets understood this too. Isaiah, speaking to a rebellious nation standing under judgment, looks back to God’s past acts of ḥên and confidently declares: “Because God has shown ḥên before, God will show ḥên again.”

{BIG KEY} Grace IS NOT God’s reaction. GRACE IS GOD’S NATURE.

V. THE NEW TESTAMENT WORD FOR GRACE — KHARIS

By the time we reach the New Testament, the Greek writers pick up the Hebrew

idea of ḥên and expand it with the word charis (χάρις), meaning: gracious gift; unearned favor; generosity freely given.

A. JESUS IS THE KHARIS OF GOD in Human Form

John tells us that Jesus came “full of charis and truth.” Jesus is God’s grace embodied. Grace with skin on. Grace walking among us.

B. Paul Explains the Power of Grace

In Ephesians 2, Paul says humanity is spiritually dead— cut off from God through our sin. We deserve judgment.

But Paul says: “But God, who is rich in mercy… …made us alive by His Kharis.” Grace does not merely forgive you— GRACE RESURRECTS YOU. Grace RESTORES YOU. Grace RECREATES YOU. Grace REVERSES YOUR STORY.

C. Grace Is MORE POWERFUL THAN DEATH

Paul says the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are gifts— gifts that overpower death itself. Gifts that must simply be received. Grace doesn’t make bad people good. Grace MAKES DEAD PEOPLE ALIVE.

VI. WHAT MAKES GOD’S GRACE AMAZING?

[LET’S SUMMARIZE WHAT THE BIBLE IS SHOWING US…]

1. GRACE IS GOD’S DELIGHT, Not His Obligation

He doesn’t give grace because He has to. He gives grace because it delights Him. It is His pleasure.

2. Grace GOES TO PEOPLE WHO DON’T DESERVE IT

Grace doesn’t wait until you’ve fixed your life. Grace meets you where you are.

3. Grace RESTORES WHAT SIN DESTROYED

Jacob and Esau / Israel and God / Humanity and God / Us and Our failures. Grace rebuilds what sin tore down.

4. Grace IS A GIFT YOU RECEIVE, NOT ACHIEVE

You cannot earn Kharis; You cannot perform for ḥên… You can only receive it.

5. Grace IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE BECAUSE GOD IS ALWAYS GRACIOUS

You and I will never wake up on a day when God says, “I’m out of grace.”

VII. HOW WE EXPERIENCE GOD’S GRACE?

Grace is not automatic. It must be received with two simple actions:

A. We OWN OUR FAILURES

Grace is not permission to hide… It’s permission to come home. Grace begins where pretending ends.

B. We ASK FOR GRACE

Throughout Scripture, when people cry out for ḥên… God responds with Himself.

He gives His mercy.

He gives His presence.

He gives His covenant promises.

He gives His Spirit.

He gives His Son.

Grace is GOD'S GIFT OF GOD.

VIII. APPLICATION — WHAT GOD’S GRACE MEANS FOR US?

1. GRACE MEANS WE CAN STOP TRYING TO EARN GOD’S APPROVAL. He has already delighted in you.

2. GRACE MEANS OUR PAST DOES NOT DISQUALIFY US FROM OUR FUTURE. Jacob’s story proves that. Israel’s story proves that. Your story, which is completely written from His view, but is still playing out in your view… proves that our past does not disqualify us from our future!

3. GRACE MEANS GOD’S GRACE IS STRONGER THAN YOUR WORST MOMENT. Grace doesn’t ignore sin. But grace overrules the justified impact of sin.

4. GRACE EMPOWERS YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY. Grace isn’t just pardon… It’s power.

GOD GIVES THE GIFT OF HIMSELF

[So where do we end today?...] With this truth: When we own our failures

and ask God for grace, His response is consistent and generous.

 Because God does not merely give grace— GOD IS GRACIOUS.

He gives:

 Himself; His life; His presence; His love; His Spirit; His Son; And a future

we could never earn.

This is THE GOD WHO IS GRACIOUS.

Every year—like many pastors—I usually start January with a “felt needs” message series. Something to help us get our feet under us for a new year: stress, relationships, habits, purpose, prayer, identity… the things we’re feeling right now.

But as I was preparing for the first series of 2026, I heard the Holy Spirit speak something that immediately captured my attention. “The first felt need is to know Me.”

I really believe The Lord is communicating to us, “The greatest need of My people is not a change in circumstances, but the greatest need of My people is clarity about who I AM.”

If you don’t know who He is… You won’t trust Him.

If you don’t trust Him… You won’t obey Him.

If you don’t obey Him…You won’t experience the life He promised.

[SO THIS YEAR…] before we talk about our needs, we are going to talk about His nature. We’re going to start right where God Himself starts when He describes His own character.

Not what culture says about God… Not what our trauma says about God… Not even what our feelings say about God… BUT WHAT GOD SAYS ABOUT GOD.

And there is one place in Scripture where God gives the most repeated, most quoted self-description of Himself in the entire Bible:

FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE

Exodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,

slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.

This passage appears more than twenty times throughout the rest of Scripture. It is the Bible’s anchor text for understanding the heart of God.

[BUT IT DOES CREATE TENSION…] One moment God is compassionate, gracious, loving, forgiving… Then suddenly we read He “punishes the children”…

SO… Is God merciful or is He vengeful? To answer that question, we need to look at the story behind these words.

I. THE STORY BEHIND THE DESCRIPTION

Before Exodus 34, God makes a covenant with Israel—He saves them out of slavery, brings them to Mount Sinai, gives them the Ten Commandments, and calls them to be SHAPED BY HIS CHARACTER so they can REPRESENT HIM TO THE WORLD.

But as Moses is on the mountain receiving the covenant… Israel is at the bottom breaking the covenant… They build a golden calf. They worship an idol.

God is hurt. God is angry. God tells Moses, “They will keep doing this. This rebellion will never stop.” AND God is ready to call off the covenant—

And He would have been absolutely just in doing so!

But Moses intercedes and reminds God of His promise to rescue the world through Abraham’s family.

[SO NOW THE QUESTION IS…] Will God give Israel what they deserve,

or will He give them who He is?

In response to that question— In response to human rebellion, human weakness, and human failure— GOD REVEALS HIS CHARACTER.

II. THE FIVE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD (THE CENTERPIECE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT)

The description in Exodus 34:6–7 has five core traits:

Compassionate; Gracious; Slow to Anger; Abounding in Loyal Love; Faithful / Truthful

Compassion is listed first—not by accident. And today we’re going to begin with the first thing God wants us to know about Him:

III. THE GOD WHO IS COMPASSIONATE

“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate God…” —Exodus 34:6

The Hebrew word is raḥûm {ra-khum} (רַחוּם).

Its noun form is raḥamîm (compassion).

Both come from the Hebrew root rechem — womb.

To the ancient Hebrew mind, compassion is not a soft, vague feeling.

It is love ROOTED IN THE DEEPEST PLACE OF HUMAN EMOTION—

a mother’s fierce, protective, tender love for her vulnerable child.

Compassion is not distant pity. It is GUT-LEVEL MOVEMENT TOWARD SOMEONE IN PAIN.

A. Compassion HAS DEEP EMOTION — 1 Kings 3

In Solomon’s famous judgment between two mothers, the real mother is described as being “deeply moved”—the Hebrew is raḥamîm—compassion rising from her core, from her womb.

She would rather lose her child to another woman than see him harmed.

Compassion MOVES YOU TOWARD ANOTHER’S GOOD AT YOUR OWN COST.

{BIG KEY} THIS IS THE FIRST WORD God chooses to DESCRIBE HIMSELF!

B. Compassion MOVES GOD TO ACTION

Compassion isn’t just God’s feeling—it is God’s movement. When Israel cries out in Egypt, Scripture says God “heard their groaning” and was moved with raḥamîm to rescue them.

In the wilderness, though they complained and doubted, God sustained them like a mother with Food, Water, Protection, Clothing that did not wear out, Leadership, guidance, and mercy!

{BIG KEY} When God reveals His character, the very first trait He mentions is COMPASSION.

C. Israel Rejects God’s Compassion… but GOD REMAINS COMPASSIONATE

Despite His tenderness, Israel continually rejects Him. They worship idols. They oppress each other. They abandon Him and heir rebellion leads to exile.

In the darkest moment, God speaks through Isaiah: Isaiah 49:15 Can a mother forget her nursing child, or have no compassion (raḥamîm) on the child of her womb? Though she may forget, I will not forget you.

Even when Israel forgets God— God promises that He will not forget them!

He is more faithful than the most faithful mother. More tender than the most tender heart. More committed than the most committed parent.

[AND ISAIAH ANNOUNCES SOMETHING RADICAL…] God will rescue His people by ENTERING INTO THEIR SUFFERING HIMSELF.

IV. JESUS IS THE COMPASSION OF GOD IN HUMAN FORM

When Jesus steps onto the scene, He is the fulfillment of Exodus 34:6.

The Greek word for compassion in the New Testament is oiktirmos {oeek-teir-mose} (οἰκτιρμός).

It means deep pity; heart-moved mercy; compassion that expresses itself in action.

There is also another word often used of Jesus’ compassion:

splagchnizomai {splank-knee-ZOE-my}— compassion from the inner parts, the guts, the womb-like center of a person.

Jesus is the raḥûm of God walking among us.

JESUS HEALS Because He Is Compassionate

He touches the leper; He lifts the broken; He feeds the hungry; He embraces the outcast.

JESUS WEEPS Because He Is Compassionate

At Lazarus’s tomb, He is deeply moved; He enters our grief.

JESUS PROTECTS Because He Is Compassionate

In Luke 13:34, He compares Himself to: “a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings.” Again we see the mother-heart of God.

JESUS SAVES Because He Is Compassionate

The ultimate oiktirmos {oeek-teir-mose} is the cross. Jesus enters humanity’s suffering, sin, sorrow, death— Not because we deserved it, but because He COULDN’T LEAVE US WHERE WE WERE.

V. THE TENSION OF COMPASSION AND JUSTICE

[NOW LET’S TURN BACK TO…] Exodus 34.

God is compassionate… But He is also just. He forgives wickedness, rebellion, and sin… But He “does not leave the guilty unpunished.”

Is this contradiction? No—it is the balancing of God’s character.

A. The Third and Fourth Generations

The phrase “punishes to the third and fourth generation” does not mean God is punishing innocent grandchildren.

It means God limits the consequences of generational rebellion only to those who continue it.

In Hebrew thought:

“Thousands” = countless generations

“Three or four” = a very limited number

{BIG KEY} God’s LOYAL LOVE IS THOUSANDS OF TIMES GREATER than His judgment.

God LEANS OVERWHELMINGLY TOWARD MERCY.

He only gives judgment WHEN PEOPLE CONTINUOUSLY REJECT HIS COMPASSION.

VI. WHAT COMPASSION REQUIRES FROM US

Because God is compassionate, Scripture calls us to embody His compassion:

Luke 6:36 Be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.”

2 Corinthians 1:3–4 God comforts us so we can comfort others.

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another…

When we see suffering— Be moved.

When we see brokenness— Move toward it.

When we see pain— Don’t look away; Don’t harden your heart; Don’t grow numb.

Compassion is the character of God developed within His people.

Agape, if we want to represent the God who is, we must become a people who reflect what He is.

VII. APPLYING GOD’S COMPASSION TODAY

1. When you are hurting, GOD MOVES TOWARD YOU, NOT AWAY FROM YOU.

Some of you think God is disappointed or distant.

No—He is moved by your pain.

2. When you fail, GOD’S COMPASSION DOES NOT RUN OUT.

Israel failed repeatedly—but God remained compassionate.

3. When you see suffering, GOD WANTS TO MOVE THROUGH YOU.

Compassion is not a feeling—it is participation.

4. GOD’S COMPASSION IS STRONGER THAN YOUR GENERATIONAL PATTERNS.

Three or four generations of sin cannot outweigh thousands of generations of God’s loyal love.

5. THE CROSS PROVES COMPASSION WINS.

Jesus does not abandon His children—He gathers them.

CONCLUSION — THE GOD WHO IS COMPASSIONATE

SO WHEN GOD REVEALS HIMSELF—not when Moses describes Him, not when people guess about Him, not when circumstances try to interpret Him— God tells Moses the very first word: COMPASSIONATE.

THE God with a mother’s heart…

THE God who moves toward the hurting…

THE God who feels deeply and acts timely…

THE God who enters suffering, not avoids it…

THE God who forgives before He judges…

THE God whose love lasts to a thousand generations…

THIS IS THE GOD WHO IS COMPASSIONATE.

And this is where we begin 2026. Not with what we feel… BUT WITH WHO GOD IS.

Today— Let’s respond to the God who moves toward us.

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UNWRAPPED: THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS

Receiving Forgiveness for Yourself

1 John 1:9 (NIV)

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

After World War II, Allied soldiers liberated a concentration camp filled with emaciated prisoners. The gates were opened, food was brought in, and the captives were told, “You’re free to go.” But one man didn’t move.

He sat on his cot, arms folded. When a soldier asked why, he said quietly,

“I’ve been in here so long… I don’t know how to live free.”

That’s exactly where many of us are spiritually. Jesus has opened the gate of grace, but shame keeps us sitting in the cell. We believe in forgiveness—but we don’t believe it applies to us.

Many people believe God forgives others but struggle to believe He truly forgives them. You can’t walk in freedom while holding yourself hostage.

Guilt reminds you of what you’ve done, but grace reminds you of who God is.

1 John 1:9 doesn’t start with punishment—it starts with promise:

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful…”

Guilt says, “You failed.” Grace says, “You’re forgiven.”

The enemy wants to keep you chained to your past, but Jesus specializes in writing new beginnings.

When a judge declares someone “not guilty,” that decision erases their record. It’s not probation; it’s a pardon. That’s what God does. He doesn’t put you on spiritual probation—He declares you free and forgiven.

So if God has forgiven you, why do you keep re-sentencing yourself?

When you confess, you aren’t informing God—you’re inviting healing. God already knows what you’ve done. Confession isn’t about giving Him new information; it’s about giving Him permission to heal you.

Psalm 32 says that when sin was kept hidden, it drained life from the inside—but the moment it was confessed, forgiveness came. Unconfessed guilt eats away at you, but when it’s brought into the light, grace rushes in like fresh air.

Imagine carrying a heavy backpack of rocks everywhere you go. Every sin, every regret, every shameful memory adds another stone. Confession is setting the backpack down and letting Jesus carry it.

You can’t move forward when you’re weighed down by what God has already removed.

God’s forgiveness doesn’t just erase your sin—it restores your identity.

1 John 1:9 says He will “purify us from all unrighteousness.” He doesn’t just forgive what you did; He restores who you are.

You are not your worst mistake.

You are not your addiction, your failure, your regret.

You are a child of God—forgiven, redeemed, and made new.

Scripture says that if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone; the new is here.

Forgiveness doesn’t just wipe away sin—it wipes away shame.

This week, be honest before God. Tell Him what you’ve been carrying. He already knows, but He’s waiting for you to let go. Write this declaration: “Because of Jesus, I am forgiven and free.” Put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. Take time to remember that His blood was shed not just for sin—but for you.

Remember Etch-A-Sketch toys? You twist the knobs and make a mess of lines, but when you shake it, the screen clears completely. That’s forgiveness. God doesn’t just draw over your mistakes—He shakes the slate clean.

Scripture says He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.

Maybe you’ve been living with silent shame—something you’ve never told anyone, something you can’t forgive yourself for. But the good news is this: the manger leads to the cross, and the cross leads to freedom.

It’s time to believe that God’s forgiveness is for you.

“Lord Jesus, I believe You died for me.

You know every sin, every secret, every scar—and yet You love me still.

Today, I confess my need for You.

I receive Your forgiveness and lay down my shame.

I am forgiven, I am loved, and I am Yours.

In Jesus’ name, amen.”

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Website: agape.church

UNWRAPPED: THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS

Receiving Forgiveness for Yourself

1 John 1:9 (NIV)

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

After World War II, Allied soldiers liberated a concentration camp filled with emaciated prisoners. The gates were opened, food was brought in, and the captives were told, “You’re free to go.” But one man didn’t move.

He sat on his cot, arms folded. When a soldier asked why, he said quietly,

“I’ve been in here so long… I don’t know how to live free.”

That’s exactly where many of us are spiritually. Jesus has opened the gate of grace, but shame keeps us sitting in the cell. We believe in forgiveness—but we don’t believe it applies to us.

Many people believe God forgives others but struggle to believe He truly forgives them. You can’t walk in freedom while holding yourself hostage.

Guilt reminds you of what you’ve done, but grace reminds you of who God is.

1 John 1:9 doesn’t start with punishment—it starts with promise:

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful…”

Guilt says, “You failed.” Grace says, “You’re forgiven.”

The enemy wants to keep you chained to your past, but Jesus specializes in writing new beginnings.

When a judge declares someone “not guilty,” that decision erases their record. It’s not probation; it’s a pardon. That’s what God does. He doesn’t put you on spiritual probation—He declares you free and forgiven.

So if God has forgiven you, why do you keep re-sentencing yourself?

When you confess, you aren’t informing God—you’re inviting healing. God already knows what you’ve done. Confession isn’t about giving Him new information; it’s about giving Him permission to heal you.

Psalm 32 says that when sin was kept hidden, it drained life from the inside—but the moment it was confessed, forgiveness came. Unconfessed guilt eats away at you, but when it’s brought into the light, grace rushes in like fresh air.

Imagine carrying a heavy backpack of rocks everywhere you go. Every sin, every regret, every shameful memory adds another stone. Confession is setting the backpack down and letting Jesus carry it.

You can’t move forward when you’re weighed down by what God has already removed.

God’s forgiveness doesn’t just erase your sin—it restores your identity.

1 John 1:9 says He will “purify us from all unrighteousness.” He doesn’t just forgive what you did; He restores who you are.

You are not your worst mistake.

You are not your addiction, your failure, your regret.

You are a child of God—forgiven, redeemed, and made new.

Scripture says that if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone; the new is here.

Forgiveness doesn’t just wipe away sin—it wipes away shame.

This week, be honest before God. Tell Him what you’ve been carrying. He already knows, but He’s waiting for you to let go. Write this declaration: “Because of Jesus, I am forgiven and free.” Put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. Take time to remember that His blood was shed not just for sin—but for you.

Remember Etch-A-Sketch toys? You twist the knobs and make a mess of lines, but when you shake it, the screen clears completely. That’s forgiveness. God doesn’t just draw over your mistakes—He shakes the slate clean.

Scripture says He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.

Maybe you’ve been living with silent shame—something you’ve never told anyone, something you can’t forgive yourself for. But the good news is this: the manger leads to the cross, and the cross leads to freedom.

It’s time to believe that God’s forgiveness is for you.

“Lord Jesus, I believe You died for me.

You know every sin, every secret, every scar—and yet You love me still.

Today, I confess my need for You.

I receive Your forgiveness and lay down my shame.

I am forgiven, I am loved, and I am Yours.

In Jesus’ name, amen.”

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Website: agape.church

Sometimes, the pain or “wrapping” of OFFENSE hides the gifts of PEACE AND FREEDOM that comes through forgiveness. 

WHAT IS UNFORGIVENESS?

POINT 1: Offense Is A TRAP — Forgiveness Is THE ESCAPE! Jesus said in Luke 17:1, “It is impossible that no offenses should come.” The Greek word for “offense” is skandalon — the bait stick in an animal trap. That’s what offense does. It lures you in, and once you bite, it locks you down.

1.Scripture describes Relational sins that create a “debt.”                                                                                   

Matthew 6:12 - “forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”

2.The Nature of the Debt

3.Spiritual Law required appropriate payment for Sin. 

Rom 6:23 - "the wages of sin is death" 

4.Unforgiveness Is Like A Parasite – It Sucks The Life Out Of You

(Here comes my gross, cringy visual illustration that you will remember) 

5.You can’t avoid being hurt — but YOU CAN CHOOSE HOW YOU RESPOND. 

6.Unforgiveness is a BIG DEAL to God!

Mark 11:25 — Forgive when you stand praying “so your Father may forgive you.”

You can’t change what someone did, but YOU CAN CHANGE WHAT YOU DO NEXT.

POINT 2: Forgiveness Is Not Saying What Happened Was Okay — It’s Saying IT WON’T CONTROL YOU ANYMORE

Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. Col 3:12-15 NLT

FOUR SPIRITUAL CONSEQUENCES OF LETTING UNFORGIVENESS LINGER

1. CUTS OFF FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD (Matthew 6:14–15)

2. GIVES SATAN LEGAL GROUND (Ephesians :26-27)

3. DEFILES OTHERS AROUND US (Hebrews 12:15)

4. IMPRISONS THE OFFENDED PERSON

If you’ll let God handle the wrapping, He’ll show you the gift inside — PEACE.

POINT 3: Forgiving Others UNWRAPS PEACE IN YOUR HEART

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. Col 3:12-15 NLT

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Advent Season – preparing our hearts for the coming of Messiah. This week, take three steps:

Identify one person or situation that still stirs pain when you think about it.

Pray for them by name each day this week. Bless them, even if your feelings haven’t caught up yet.

Write a Christmas Letter - a letter of release. (You don’t have to send it.) Write what they did, how it affected you, and then end with: “Today, I choose to forgive you and release you to God.” It will be a gift to them… and to yourself!

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·     Have you ever passed by a person with a sign that says, “NEED HELP or NEED FOOD” and thought… man I hope someone gets him something to eat. Or a co-worker that’s clearly going through a rough time and you pray, God please send someone to help him.

The person you’re hoping and praying for is YOU!

Matthew 14:13-16 (NLT)

As soon as Jesus heard the news that John the Baptist had been beheaded, he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. But the crowds heard where he was headed and followed on foot from many towns. Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. That evening the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.” But Jesus said, “That isn’t necessary—you feed them.”

·     COMPASSION with NO CORRESPONDING ACTION IS JUST SYMPATHY

[WHAT HAPPENS…] when Jesus CHALLENGES YOU to be a DIFFERENCE MAKERS THROUGH SERVICE?

Scott Harrison, the founder of Charity: Water — an organization that’s helped bring clean drinking water to millions around the world. What’s amazing is where his journey began. After years in the New York nightclub scene, Scott hit rock bottom and discovered a deeper purpose that changed everything. In this clip from The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast, he shares how that transformation led to the birth of Charity: Water.”

I love how Scott’s story shows that when you say yes to Jesus, you never really know what God might do through that simple act of obedience. Scott thought he was just leaving behind an empty life — but God was preparing to do immeasurably more than he could have ever imagined.

·     That’s the challenge Jesus gives to every one of us — to be difference makers through our generosity combined with our service.

·     When you take that step, when you offer what’s in your hand, God can multiply it beyond your wildest dreams.

In this next clip from The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast, Scott shares what happened when he took that step — the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ behind Charity: Water — and how one surrendered life can bring clean water, hope, and the love of Jesus to millions.

RECAP & ACTION STEP

[I BELIEVE A GOOD CASE CAN BE MADE…] when you look at God’s characteristics of making a difference in the lives of people we find two things:

·      God's primary way of ruling and acting on our planet is THROUGH PEOPLE.

·      When God wants something done in the world, GOD OFTEN CALLS PEOPLE TO DO IT."

IMMEASURABLY MORE is an effort to meet three specific goals:

·      $15,000 – Extra Mortgage Payment (Debt Reduction)

·      $48,000 – Finish Painting Auditorium & FLC Buildings & PA System Update (Stewardship)

·      $12,000 – A Water Well for Bomet, Kenya (Generational Gospel Impact - Legacy)

·      $75,000 – IMMEASURABLY MORE GOAL BY DECEMBER 31, 2025

PRIMARY GOAL - 100% Participation

We want every person who calls Agape Church their church home to be a part of this Generosity Initiative. Now is the time that we come together, in even greater unity, around advancing this vision and mission.

·     [WHAT DOES THAT LOOK LIKE…]

Over the next couple weeks you are going to discover how to complete that Commitment Card; Please take the next couple of weeks to pray, see what God directs you to give and come on November 16, ready to participate as we make our commitment to the Lord together!

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Facebook: agapechurchslo

Instagram: @agapechurchslo

Website: agape.church

Review: Everyone Has a Worldview Your WORLDVIEW is simply the LENS YOU SEE LIFE THROUGH.

Foundational Scripture for this series, 

Proverbs 14:12(NLT) 12 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.

Barna Report: In his report from the American Worldview Inventory 2023, Barna identifies the “seven cornerstones of the biblical worldview.” They are:

An orthodox, biblical understanding of God.

All human beings are sinful by nature; every choice we make has moral considerations and consequences.

Knowing Jesus Christ is the only means to salvation, through our confession of sin and reliance on His forgiveness.

The entire Bible is true, reliable, and relevant, making it the best moral guide for every person, in all situations.

Absolute moral truth exists—and those truths are defined by God, described in the Bible, and are unchanging across time and cultures.

The ultimate purpose of human life is to know, love, and serve God with all your heart, mind, strength, and soul.

Success on earth is best understood as consistent obedience to God—in thoughts, words, and actions

The report goes on to say:

35% of Americans believe Jesus is the only way for salvation.

46% accept the Bible as true and reliable.

25% believe in absolute truth rooted in the Bible.

23% define success as obedience to God.

Our worldview drives our beliefs and our behavior.

Victory Christian School

We have seen research lately that says that a person’s worldview is established by the age of 13.

And that by the age of 30 most people go back to that early world view. 

So it is imperative that we teach our kids a Biblical worldview.

They must believe they are created by God and the Word of God is absolute truth. 

Quick explanation of:

Biblical Worldview

Post modernism

Secularism

Syncretism

How To Walk Out A Biblical Worldview

Galatians 3 (NLT) 

The Law and Faith in Christ

1 Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ’s death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 

2 Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses? Of course not! You received the Spirit because you believed the message you heard about Christ. 

3 How foolish can you be? After starting your new lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? 4 Have you experienced so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?

5 I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law? Of course not! It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ.

6 In the same way, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”7 The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God.

10 But those who depend on the law to make them right with God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, “Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the commands that are written in God’s Book of the Law.” 11 So it is clear that no one can be made right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.”

The gospel is the most radical message that has ever confronted humanity 

Because it deals with our biggest issues - pride and selfishness.

The only answer to self is the cross. 

I have to let self die and the Christ nature move in. 

How To Walk Out A Biblical Worldview 

Matthew 16:24-25 (NIV) 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.

#1 The cross is the place where I die.

#2 It’s not what I want, it’s what God wants.

#3 It’s not what I think, it’s what God says in His Word.

#4 It’s not what I feel, it’s how the Holy Spirit leads me.

Key Points:

Everyone has a worldview, but a biblical worldview is based on God's Word, not cultural norms

Our identity is not self-made, but God-given

We must reject counterfeit identities and root our identity in Scripture

Renewing our mind is crucial for maintaining a biblical worldview

Remember your worth is fixed in the finished work of Jesus, not others' opinions

God defines our worth, gender, and calling

Scripture References:

Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."

Genesis 1:27 - "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."

Romans 12:2 - "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Jesus isn’t saying it’s wrong to have money. He’s saying IT’S DANGEROUS TO TRUST IN IT. Worry is often a symptom that we’ve placed TRUST IN OURSELVES instead of TRUST IN OUR FATHER. This is not prosperity gospel—it’s PRIORITY GOSPEL. The way of the Kingdom is not worry, IT’S WORSHIP. It’s not accumulation, IT’S SURRENDER. It’s not fear, IT’S FAITH.

KEY TRUTHS: Live as people of heaven while still on earth. The way forward is deeper, not easier. Real righteousness means treating every human like they have ultimate value. Jesus raised the bar. He fulfilled the Law so we could live a transformed life from the inside out. He calls us to reject surface-level spirituality. At Agape, we’ve committed to stop settling for appearances and live from the inside out—loving God, obeying His Word, reflecting His kingdom. Let’s begin with a prayer: “Holy Spirit, I want to live righteously—deeper than behavior. Make me more like Jesus.”

Jesus lived in a culture where public devotion brought praise. But devotion can become performance when our audience shifts from God to people. Even our “doing righteousness”—in giving, praying, and fasting—can be corrupted. Jesus believed the ultimate treasure of life is not status or recognition, but receiving God’s love—and giving that love to others. “Be careful that you don’t do your righteousness in front of people to be seen by them. If you do, you’ll have no reward from your Father in the skies.” – Matthew 6:1

GENEROSITY “When you give... don’t signal it with a trumpet... they have fully received their reward.” – Matthew 6:2 Jesus’ culture honored public giving, but He warns against giving for attention. “When you give... don’t let your left hand know what your right is doing... your Father who sees in private will reward you.” – Matthew 6:3–4 Give from love, not for likes. Jesus’ teachings on generosity (Mark 10:17–22; Mark 12:41–44; Matt. 13:44; Luke 12:13–21, 33; Acts 20:35) show God’s heartbeat. Even good acts need honest motives.

PRAYER “When you pray... don’t be like the hypocrites... they’ve received their reward.” – Matthew 6:5 Jesus prayed consistently (Luke 5:16) but also warns against using prayer for praise. “When you pray, go into a room... pray to your Father in private... He will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6 Prayer is about intimacy, not performance. Jesus gives wisdom: check your motives by praying when no one can see.

FASTING “When you fast, don’t look gloomy... they have received their reward.” – Matthew 6:16 Fasting is praying with your body—setting aside physical needs to make space for God. But it too can become performative. “When you fast... wash your face, so your fasting isn’t visible... your Father... will reward you.” – Matthew 6:17–18 Jesus never says to stop giving, praying, or fasting. He says: don’t treat God’s love like a trophy. When done from love, the reward is His presence, pleasure, and transformation (Matt. 23:2–12; 2 Pet. 1:3; John 17:20–23).

PRACTICAL STEPS AUDIT YOUR MOTIVES Ask: Would I do this if no one knew? (Psalm 139:23–24) CULTIVATE A SECRET PLACE Create space in daily life for private worship (Matthew 6:6). PRACTICE ANONYMOUS GENEROSITY Give without recognition. Love giving more than credit (Matthew 6:3–4). FAST FROM VISIBILITY Avoid public displays. Let it be between you and God (Matthew 6:17–18). REMEMBER YOUR TRUE REWARD Your reward is not applause—it’s knowing and being known by God (John 17:3; 2 Peter 1:3)

Mt.5:1,2 “Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, he began to teach them.”

Ep.1:18 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,

Mt.5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Lk. 17:20,21 “Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in within you.”

Lk.11:20 “But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”

Mat.5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

1Th. 4:13 “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.”

2C.7:10 “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.”

Lk.18:13-14 “Tax collector stood at a distance. Wouldn’t even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Mat.5:5 Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth.

Mt.11:28,29 "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me. For I am meek and lowly in heart."

Jn 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Ep. 4:22-24 "You were taught to put off your old self... to be made new in the attitude of your minds... to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Mt 11:29 "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls." Mat.5:6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Ph.3:15 “All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things.”

Mat.5:7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

2 C.1:3-4 “What a wonderful God we have—he is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the one who comforts and strengthens us in our hardships... so that we can pass on to others this same help.”

Mat.5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Ps. 24:3-6 “Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart... They will receive blessing from the Lord... Such is the generation of those who seek him.” Mat.5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Mat.5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. PRACTICAL STEPS TO

GROW THROUGH THE STUDY OF Mat.5-7:

1. Read slowly each week

2. Memorize a verse each week

3. Keep the treasure: Look for things that challenge and bless

4. Pray the Lord's prayer daily as a declaration

5. Live in community (small groups)

6. Live as Kingdom people while still here on earth.

Columnist and author Ann Landers once described how our attitudes toward our dads evolve as we grow:

Child’s Age – Attitude Toward Dad

4 years: My daddy can do anything.

7 years: My dad knows a lot, a whole lot.

8 years: Wow… Dad doesn't quite know everything, does he?

12 years: Well, of course Dad wouldn't know anything about that.

14 years: Pops? Hopelessly old-fashioned.

21 years: Oh, he’s living in the past. What’d you expect?

25 years: He knows a little bit about it, but pretty clueless.

30 years: Well, it might not help, but we could ask Dad what he thinks.

35 years: Let’s slow down a bit and get Dad's opinion before we do anything.

50 years: I wonder what Dad would’ve thought about that. He was pretty smart.

60 years: My dad knew absolutely everything!

65 years: I'd give anything if Dad were still here so I could talk this over with him. I really miss him.

Theology Professor Calvin Miller once said: “The reason that the earth is so poor is that her real treasure lies in heaven, while all her treasure maps are of the earth.”

This is because God truly sees us as His children.

In South Africa’s Pilanesberg Park, young male elephants—without the guidance of mature males—became aggressive and destructive. Eventually, older bull elephants were introduced. They quickly brought stability and order, assuming their roles as fathers and disciplinarians.

What was your dad’s wound from his dad? And how was grandpa hurt by his father? Many of us are shaped by generations of father wounds.

“Many men with father wounds become the best fathers. They have a deep conviction to protect the next generation from what wounded them.” Author Richard Rohr

God sends an angel to the home of Joash, from the clan of Abiezer, to speak with Joash’s son, Gideon:

Judges 6:12–16

The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior.”

Then Gideon said to him, “O my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”

The Lord looked at him and said, “Go in this your strength and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian. Have I not sent you?”

He said to Him, “O Lord, how shall I deliver Israel? Behold, my family is the least in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father’s house.”

But the Lord said to him, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat Midian as one man.”

But first, God required Gideon and Joash to separate themselves from idolatry before stepping into their calling.

Judges 6:25–27

Now on the same night the Lord said to him, “Take your father’s bull and a second bull seven years old, and pull down the altar of Baal which belongs to your father, and cut down the Asherah that is beside it; and build an altar to the Lord your God on the top of this stronghold in an orderly manner, and take the second bull and offer a burnt offering with the wood of the Asherah which you shall cut down.”

Then Gideon took ten men of his servants and did as the Lord had spoken to him; and because he was too afraid of his father’s household and the men of the city to do it by day, he did it by night.

One of the few remaining altars of Baal still stands today—a reminder of the very thing Gideon was called to tear down.

This action was bold, loud, and disruptive. People noticed right away.

Judges 6:28–31

When the men of the city arose early in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was torn down, and the Asherah which was beside it was cut down, and the second bull was offered on the altar which had been built.

They said to one another, “Who did this thing?” And when they searched about and inquired, they said, “Gideon the son of Joash did this thing.”

Then the men of the city said to Joash, “Bring out your son, that he may die, for he has torn down the altar of Baal, and indeed, he has cut down the Asherah which was beside it.”

But Joash said to all who stood against him, “Will you contend for Baal, or will you deliver him? Whoever will plead for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because someone has torn down his altar.”

After this turning point, God began to move Gideon into leadership and victory—because God knew what was coming.

Judges 6:33–34 (NLT)

Soon afterward the armies of Midian, Amalek, and the people of the east formed an alliance against Israel and crossed the Jordan, camping in the valley of Jezreel.

Then the Spirit of the Lord clothed Gideon with power. He blew a ram’s horn as a call to arms, and the men of the clan of Abiezer came to him.

We are the most resourced, connected, and Gospel-rich generation in history. Let us not waste this moment. The world is waiting. The harvest is great. And Jesus is worthy.

Paul told Timothy, “Do the work of the Evangelist” (2 Tim 4:5). Today, despite global turbulence, God's kingdom is growing. A spiritual hunger is rising—especially among young people—not just for information, but a relationship with Jesus.

Recent Stats: In 2024/25, 62% of 18–24-year-olds identify as spiritual, up from 25–33% in 2021–23. They’re hungry—not all saved yet, but searching.

The Church must respond.

1. WHY? People won’t know Jesus unless someone tells them! Romans 10:14-15 (NIV): “How can they believe... without someone preaching... How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

2. WHY? We must remember what it was like to be lost. Luke 15:4: “What man of you… does not leave the ninety-nine… and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?” Lost people today are surrounded by noise, but empty inside. I was lost at Disneyland as a kid—and again at 19—until Jesus found me. We must help others be found.

3. WHY? Christ’s Love Compels Us! John 3:16 (NKJV): “For God so loved the world...” 1 John 4:19: “We love Him because He first loved us.” We share not out of guilt, but because we’ve been changed. People like Tom, Christine, and Bill shared Jesus with me.

4. The Power of Seed 1 Corinthians 3:6-8: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase…” Every conversation, every act of love plants a seed.

5. Infinite Potential in a Seed F.F. Bosworth said, “One verse… may grow into thousands of conversions.”

6. WHY? We are Called and Sent Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV): “Go therefore and make disciples…” John 20:21: “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” Evangelism isn’t just for pastors—it’s for all of us.

7. We Are Ambassadors 2 Corinthians 5:14-20: “We are ambassadors for Christ… be reconciled to God.” Evangelism is urgent—“God is pleading through us.”

8. WHY? The Reality of Heaven & Hell Jesus warned of hell (Gehenna) at least 11 times. Matthew 25:31: “Depart from me… into everlasting fire…” 2 Thes. 1:9: “...everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord…” Hell is not God's choice—it’s ours. Romans 6:23: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life…” Hebrews 9:22: “Without the shedding of blood there is no remission…”

Summary –

Why Share Our Faith?

We Share Because We've Been Changed

We Share Because People Are Lost

We Share Because We Are Ambassadors

We Share Because Jesus Paid the Ultimate Price

Part 2 – Practical Tools for Sharing the Gospel

1. Start with Prayer

2. Build Bridges, Not Sales Pitches --Be honest and relational. Jesus met people where they were (John 4).

3. Ask Good Questions --“Are you interested in spiritual things?” --“What does ‘born again’ mean to you?” --“If you died today, do you believe in Heaven or Hell?”

4. Share Your Story --Before Christ – Meeting Christ – After Christ

5. Listen Well (James 1:19)

6. Pray for Needs on the Spot --Invite God’s presence to move.

7. Offer Help Where You Can --Let your actions reflect Christ’s love. Let’s Do It! Pray for boldness. Be available. Every conversation is a seed—plant it, and trust God for the harvest!

Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Kindness isn’t about being “nice” or having a pleasant personality. It’s a fruit of the Holy Spirit—a sign that God is alive in us. In a world that rewards cruelty and mocks compassion, true kindness is radical and powerful. We can’t manufacture fruit—it’s the natural result of a life rooted in Christ. When the Spirit leads, kindness flows. It’s not about rules—it’s about transformation.

[EPHESIANS 4:32 (NKJV)] “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

Kindness comes from a soft heart. A hardened heart, however, leads to the kind of "bad fruit" Paul warned about:

[2 TIMOTHY 3:1-5 (NKJV)] “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves…unloving, unforgiving…brutal, despisers of good…having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!”

If we see this fruit in our lives, it’s a call to repentance. God wants to produce kindness in us from the inside out.

MAKE IT PRACTICAL – SIX WAYS TO CULTIVATE KINDNESS Gratitude Softens the Heart Grateful people are kind people. Key Thought: “The more I’m grateful for God’s kindness toward me, the kinder I’ll be to others.” Purity Protects Kindness

Unrepented sin hardens the heart.

Love Fuels Kindness

Kindness is love in action.

Forgiveness Makes Space for Kindness

Bitterness blocks kindness.

Key Thought: “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover the prisoner was me.”

Devotion to God Develops Kindness

Romans 2:4: “God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.”

God is patient with us. And when we are patient—especially as mothers, fathers, or spiritual parents—we demonstrate that same fruit and reveal the evidence of God’s Spirit in our lives. The fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, are not something we can strive for. The fruit of the Spirit is a byproduct of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and EVIDENCE of our relationships with Jesus. The fruit of patience is not meant to help us deal with annoyances of life. Patience, as used here, is defined as ENDURANCE, STEADFASTNESS, PERSEVERANCE, PATIENCE IN TRIAL, and LONGSUFFERING. Its purpose is to help us suffer through rials and mistreatment with a Christ-like attitude.

Psalm 86:15 (NIV) reminds us that God is “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger”—He doesn’t just demand patience, He demonstrates it.

2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) shows us the reason: “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise… He is patient with you.”

PATIENCE MATURES US BY GIVING US THE ABILITY TO DO THREE THINGS.

1. We LEARN TO WAIT FOR GOD.

When we trust God in the waiting, we: Let go of our timeline but get God’s timing. Let go of our plan but get God’s provision. Lose control but get God’s covering.

2. We mature as we LEARN TO ENDURE THROUGH TRIALS. God does not cause trials, but He promises to be with us through trials. We must hold firm to God, no matter what!

3. We endure in patience when we LEARN TO FORGIVE EACH OTHER. Forbearance gives us the ability to forgive someone even in the toughest situations. Today, let’s lock eyes with Jesus, so that He can help us cultivate the kind of patience that’s only available through Him!

WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE PRACTICALLY: HOW DO WE CULTIVATE PATIENCE?

1. FOCUS ON WHO JESUS IS. When we are waiting, enduring, and forgiving, we can cast out doubt, fear, and anxiety because He is faithful! Jesus is Love, Powerful, our Redeemer, Rock, Good Shepherd, and Good Father. He is the Way, Truth, the life, our Savior, Almighty, and the Great I AM! We don’t have to focus on ourselves.

2. FOCUS ON WHAT JESUS HAS SAID. Patience is not passive. Waiting is an opportunity to grow when we put our hope in the Word. We need to find a verse that speaks to our situation and claim it!

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, .. James 1:2-3

3. FOCUS ON WHAT JESUS HAS DONE.

When God asks us to be patient, He isn’t asking us to do anything He did not do first. God waited on us, endured with us, and forgave us. Because He did, we can wait on God’s timing, endure through the greatest pain, and forgive the deepest wrongs.

WE ARE NEVER MORE LIKE JESUS THAN WHEN WE ARE LIVING IN PATIENCE! Do not, therefore, fling away your [fearless] confidence, for it has a glorious and great reward. For you have need of patient endurance [to bear up under difficult circumstances without compromising], so that when you have carried out the will of God, you may receive and enjoy to the full what is promised. (Heb 10:35-36) AMP

Our Core Values

A young couple moved to a new city with big dreams but felt isolated — no friends, no community. On a whim, they visited a church. From day one, they felt seen, loved, and welcomed. Over time, they became leaders, helping others find the same sense of belonging. When asked why they stayed, they said, "It wasn’t the programs or preaching — it was the people who lived what they believed and loved us when we had nothing to offer." That’s the heartbeat of Agape Church.

[VISION STATEMENT] We exist to HELP PEOPLE KNOW GOD, FIND FREEDOM, DISCOVER PURPOSE, and MAKE A DIFFERENCE. It’s not just what we do — it’s who we are. Having a compelling vision is good — but a healthy culture is essential.

CULTURE EATS STRATEGY FOR LUNCH. Even the best plan fails without the right values, morals, and behaviors. Motivation is your why. Morals are your compass. Integrity is consistency. Character is your reputation.

GOD'S CORE PROMISES Exodus 6:6-7 (NIV) “...I will bring you out... I will free you... I will redeem you... I will take you as my own people...” “I will bring you out” – SALVATION

(Change your location) “I will free you” – DELIVERANCE

(Change your mentality) “I will redeem you” – RESTORATION “I will take you as my own people” – FULFILLMENT GOD’S CORE VALUES FOR THE ISRAELITES

Exodus 20:1–17 God gave the commandments after freeing His people — values are for the free.

AGAPE CHURCH CORE VALUES - God works through His Church — people led and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

We serve with EXCELLENCE. Colossians 3:23–24 (NIV)

We build for the future — what we build should OUTLIVE US. John 15:16 (NIV)

We SPEAK WELL OF OTHERS — no gossip. Leviticus 19:16 (NLT), Proverbs 11:13 (NIV)

We PASTOR A CITY, not just a church.

We are FRIENDLY and HELPFUL.

We believe in the UNIFYING POWER OF JESUS. John 17:20–23 (NIV)

[BIG KEY:] A united nation starts with a united Church — passionate people surrendered to Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:18–20 (NIV), 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NLT)

FOUR UNITY STEPS:

Own the problem.

Accept the Church’s call to reconcile.

Overcome blind spots.

Fully commit to unity.

CREATIVITY is how we solve problems — even within limitations.

We TRANSITION WELL — honoring God and relationships. Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7:8 (ESV)

We always TRUST GOD TO MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

Jesus will always provide COMFORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE INSIDE-OUT FIRST, not from the outside –in.

·       JOY comes from the inside but HAPPINESS comes from the outside

·       Our desire to know and love Him and the energy to serve Him will KEEP FLOWING into and through us AS LONG AS "WE ABIDE IN HIM."

·       A believer cannot achieve anything of spiritual value independent of Jesus.

·       The ability to bring the transforming love of Jesus to a world suffering with all these ailments comes from being like branches are connected to the vine.

Because Jesus is the True Vine, we are to stay connected to Him and by loving each other!

Jn. 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.” (NKJV)

Intro:

Honor and Definition of a Shepherd

Jesus, a great storyteller

Good and Bad leaders

Chap 9:

Man born blind, healed by Jesus on the Sabbath, thrown out of the temple. Leaders were spiritually blind, contrasting with Jesus’ healing.

Chapter 10:

Jesus compares shepherds to people in the Middle East. He contrasts the Pharisees’ blindness with the healed man. False shepherds (Pharisees) claimed insight but were spiritually blind. Jesus, as the True Shepherd, seeks and heals His sheep. His sheep hear and follow His voice.

Jn. 10:1-5

Jesus describes Himself as the door of the sheep, warning of thieves and robbers. Sheep recognize and follow the voice of their shepherd.

Jesus as the Door:

He is the only way to salvation and provision. The shepherd protects His flock and provides for their needs. False shepherds only take from the flock, but Jesus gives abundant life. John. 10:7-10

Jesus is the door through which His sheep are saved and find pasture. The thief comes to steal, but Jesus came to give life more abundantly.

The Good Shepherd:

Jesus is willing to give His life for His sheep (Jn. 10:11).

A hireling flees when danger comes, but Jesus cares for His flock and lays down His life for them (Jn. 10:12-13).

Jesus has intimate knowledge of His sheep and will gather others, including Gentiles (Jn. 10:14-16).

John. 10:17-18

Jesus willingly lays down His life; His death is voluntary, and He has power over it.

His obedience to God’s will brings special love from the Father.

Division Among the People: Jesus' teachings divided the crowd, with some claiming He was demon-possessed, while others recognized His power to heal.

Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd:

Psalm 23:1-6: God as our shepherd provides, restores, protects, and comforts. He takes care of all our needs, especially salvation, which He secured through Jesus' sacrifice.

Jesus said – “I am the Door”

Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:7-10 NKJV

BIBLICAL USAGE OF DOOR OR GATE Greek Word - "thyra" means "door," "gate," or "entrance," used both literally and figuratively. Figurative Meaning: It can also be used metaphorically to represent an opportunity, a way in, or a pathway to something different, something new, a higher place … or to a door of temptation.

SIX IMPORTANT DOORS TO CONSIDER

The Door of Salvation - “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

The Door of Protection - “I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” John 10:9

The Door of Opportunity – “See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it” Rev 3:8

The Door of Perseverance – “… keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. Luke 11:5-9 NLT

The Door of Temptation – “Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.” Gen 4:6-7 NLT

The Door to Heaven – “Then as I looked, I saw a door standing open in Heaven, and the same voice I had heard before spoke to me like a trumpet blast. The voice said, “Come up here ” Rev 4:1

The Invitation - Behold, I stand at the door and continually knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him (restore him), and he with Me. Rev 3:20 amp

John. 8:12 (NIV) When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

John.1:1-5 (NIV) “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John.14:6 Jesus and answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

The Light of His TRUTH,

The light of His WORD,

The light of ETERNAL LIFE.

FIRST PROMISE, His followers will never walk in darkness,

2 Corinthians 4:7 (TLB) But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

Ephesians 1:18-19 (NIV) “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, . . . 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,

Ephesians 3:17-18 (NIV) “. . . I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,

1 John 1:5-7 (NIV) “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all[a] sin.

SECOND promise is we will reflect the Light of Life.

John 8:12 (TLB) “Later, in one of his talks, Jesus said to the people, “I am the Light of the world. So if you follow me, you won’t be stumbling through the darkness, for living light will flood your path.”

Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV) “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Isaiah 60: 1-3 (NIV) Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness will cover the earth, and deep darkness the peoples; But the Lord will rise upon you and His glory will appear upon you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.

I AM; Child of God;

I AM: Redeemed from the hand of the enemy

I AM: A new creation.

I AM the light of the World

Isaiah 60 (AMP) "Arise [from the depression & prostration in which circumstances have kept you -- rise to a new life]!"

THE BREAD THAT SAVED A LIFE

During World War II, a soldier in a prison camp shared his hidden piece of bread with a fellow prisoner, offering life-saving strength. That small gesture symbolized life beyond mere sustenance. John 18:3-6 (NIV)

Jesus, knowing His fate, declares “I AM He” (ego eimi), a powerful statement connecting Himself to God’s covenant name revealed in Exodus 3:14, affirming His divinity. John 6:28-35 (NIV)

The crowd, seeking signs, misses the deeper truth. Jesus corrects their view of manna, revealing that God’s true bread, the bread of life, comes from Him. “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”

BREAKING IT DOWN… The crowd focuses on physical bread, missing the spiritual truth. Jesus points them to eternal sustenance, urging them to seek the true bread from heaven.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT JESUS IS THE BREAD OF LIFE? Bread is Essential for Life: It symbolizes sustenance. Just as physical bread sustains life, Jesus sustains spiritual life. Jesus Gives Eternal Life: Jesus contrasts physical bread with spiritual bread, offering eternal life. Jesus Satisfies the Deepest Hunger: He satisfies our inner desire for righteousness, purpose, and meaning (Matthew 5:6).

THE BREAD OF LIFE – WHAT JESUS IS SAYING TO YOU

Jesus is saying He is essential for your life. He offers eternal life, satisfaction for your deepest hunger, and an invitation to come and believe in Him.

COMMUNION Jesus is not just a teacher or prophet—He is the Bread of Life that gives eternal life. The question is: Are you feeding on the true Bread that lasts, or settling for what will never satisfy?

In 1956, Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, along with four missionaries, attempted to reach the Huaorani tribe in Ecuador. Though Jim and the others were killed, Elisabeth returned with her daughter, demonstrating a generational mentality—she believed her actions could impact future generations. Eventually, the tribe embraced Christ, and today, their descendants are pastors and missionaries. Many of us live for the present, but God calls us to think generationally.

Psalm 78:4, 6-7 (NLT): *"We will tell the next generation...so each generation might set its hope anew on God."* Families are not just dynamic institutions but spiritual legacies. As a church, we are called to instill hope, power, and faithfulness in future generations. Let’s explore a Generational Mentality—acknowledging both the present and future in God’s plan.

**Two Main Characteristics of Our Current Generation**

**We are a DIVERSE GENERATION** There are more generations alive today than ever before! - Silent, Boomer, X Generations: Slower-paced, shared faith, high trust, strong morality - Millennial, Gen Z: Frantic pace, faith at the margins, broken trust, moral tolerance

**We are a DISCONNECTED GENERATION**

Judges 17:6 (NLT): *"In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes."*

As culture changes, children must figure out their own values. Margaret Mead predicted a time when children will navigate values alone. As followers of Jesus, we must restore connections between generations.

**Benefits of Understanding Generational Differences**

- Effective communication, teamwork, and leadership

- Better recruitment and retention

- Shared values

Without a generational mentality, a church’s mission dies with the current generation. Nelson Henderson said, *"The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit."* A church with a generational mindset plants seeds for a harvest it may never see.

**Four Characteristics of a Church with a Generational Mentality**

1. **Prioritizes Discipleship and Spiritual Reproduction** - 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV): *"Entrust to reliable people who will teach others."* A generational church trains disciples who train others.

2. **Honors the Legacy of Faith** - 1 Corinthians 11:23 (NIV): *"For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you..."* A church keeps the foundation of faith intact for future generations.

3. **Builds Structures for the Future** - Psalm 78:6 (NLT): *"So the next generation might know them..."* A church creates ministries and leadership programs that outlast current leadership. *The things we build for God should outlive us!*

4. **Strengthens Families to Carry Faith Forward** - Josh McDowell: *"Christianity is always one generation away from extinction."* A church equips families to carry on the faith.

**A Church with a Generational Mentality Answers Three Critical Questions for the Next Generation**

1. **What is Truth?** - John 18:37-38 (NIV): *"Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."* A church anchors youth in Scripture to withstand cultural shifts.

2. **Where Do I Belong?** - Psalm 68:6 (NIV): *"God sets the lonely in families..."* A church is a place of belonging and mentorship across generations.

3. **Does My Life Matter?** - Ephesians 2:10 (NLT): *"We are God’s masterpiece..."* A church affirms that every life has God-ordained purpose.

**How to Live Out a Generational Mentality**

- Teach the next generation—share faith stories with children and new believers.

- Disciple intentionally—invest in mentoring and training.

- Create future-focused ministries—empower young leaders by placing them in positions of responsibility.

- Live with a kingdom legacy in mind—make decisions that impact generations to come. Let us commit to building a legacy of faith that echoes through generations!

Psalm 127:3-5 (New Living Translation) Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (New Living Translation) For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!

So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.

KINGDOM TACTICS FOR RAISING KIDS

1. Amusement is not top priority. Parents call the shots. You are the leader.

2. Believe that you deserve to be respected Setup clear expectations Practice Pray for an obedient heart

3. Routine and boundaries provide a sanctuary

BOUNDARY STARTER KIT

Make it clear

Be consistent

Make it helpful

4. Building a boat to launch.

5. Make church, the Bible and prayer normal

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (New Living Translation) And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today.

Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.

Deuteronomy 6:6 (New Living Translation) And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children.

**Foundational Scripture:** Proverbs 24:3 (NCV) "It takes wisdom to have a good family, and it takes understanding to make it strong."

**Six Unchanging Principles for Families**

1. **Our families are built on a foundation of love** 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV) Love is a choice to be patient, kind, and forgiving daily.

2. **Our families should be high touch** Mark 10:13-16 (ESV) Jesus showed the importance of affirmative touch. Physical touch promotes healing (Mark 6:56).

3. **Our families prioritize time together** Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV) Time is precious. The average dad spends only 37 seconds of meaningful time with kids daily.

4. **In our families, words should give blessing and encouragement** Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) The tongue has the power of life and death. Positive words are key to building strong relationships.

5. **Godly families leave an inheritance** Proverbs 13:22 (NIV) Inheritance can be financial, honorable, or spiritual. Your legacy matters.

6. **You’ll never be a perfect parent, but you can be a praying parent** James 5:16 (NIV) The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

**Goal:** My family will fulfill God's will and purpose for their lives. Psalm 138:8 (NLT) "The Lord will work out his plans for my life..."

**Closing:** Healthy families are built with wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 24:3). By applying biblical principles, our families can grow in love, grace, and faith through every season of life.

- Attitude of humility

2. Unity is accomplished when we have humble minds.

- we>ME

- Attitude of gentleness

3. Unity is accomplished when we exhibit gentleness.

- Attitude of Patience

4. Unity is accomplished through PATIENCE.

Then the heart is the center of all parts of human existence. As in the well-known Proverb, “guard your heart because from it flows your whole life.”

AHAVAH refers to the kind of affection or care that one person shows another. 

LORD -the one who was, who is and who will be 

God’s love originates from God’s own character. 

God’s love has no end because it has no beginning 

God’s love has no end because it HAS NO BEGINNING. God’s love is an eternal fact of the universe. 

AHAVAH is one of the strongest things that God feels. God’s love is also an action. 

God chooses (an action) to love.’ 

God’s love is something God does. 

In the ‘SHEMA‘, God calls Israel to respond to His AHAVAH by showing Ahavah in return. 

If I am not doing what the Lord asks in Deuteronomy 10 then, I don’t actually love God… I just say I do! 

I show my love for God by how I treat the people around me. We are to imitate God’s ahavah by showing ahavah for others. 

We love [AHAVAH] because God first loved [AHAVAH] us. – 1 John 4:19 

The Bible has lots of different titles for God. Which should we use? Explore the many names of God and the significance of the one used in the Shema. This week we focus on the ancient Hebrew prayer, the Shema, with a closer look at the first word in the prayer, shema, meaning 'listen'.

Murmuring is a subdued or private expression of discontent or dissatisfaction.

WHY DOES GOD HAVE AN ISSUE WITH MURMURING

MURMURING is not a tool for building, MURMURING is gaining followers.

*Pillars, Bread, & Seed*

**Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)**

*Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…*

In 1519, Hernán Cortés arrived in Mexico with a small army, greatly outnumbered. He issued the bold command: *BURN THE SHIPS!*—making retreat impossible. This decision set the stage for their mission's success.

**First Principle of Immeasurably More:**

When following God's vision, **there is no plan B!**

**2 Kings 4:1-7 (NIV)**

The widow of a prophet seeks Elisha’s help. She has nothing but a small jar of olive oil. Elisha tells her to gather empty jars and pour the oil into them. The oil miraculously keeps flowing until all jars are filled. Elisha instructs her to sell the oil, pay her debts, and live on the remainder.

**The Pillars of Immeasurably More:**

1. **Surrender:** The widow surrendered to God’s plan through Elisha. Whatever God asks of us, He has already placed the seed for it “in our house.”

*God’s desire is not to take from us but to give to us.* Surrendering is not just agreeing, but fully committing to God’s call.

2. **Trust:** "ALL IN" invites us to trust God, both individually and as a community, to accomplish His vision through us.

3. **Generosity:** Generosity is a commitment to always give God your best. Father Joseph Damien, who served lepers on Molokai and eventually contracted the disease, demonstrated this with his life. He gave selflessly, even to the point of sacrifice.

**2 Corinthians 9:6-8, 10-11 (NIV)**

*Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously...*

God will provide for us, increasing our seed and multiplying our harvest, so we can be generous on every occasion.

**Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Will Provide**

God provides everything we need. Some is *seed* to be sown, and some is *bread* for consumption. It’s our job to discern the difference.

*Don’t sow your bread, and don’t consume your seed.*

**The Principles of Sowing & Reaping:**

*Seed* is too small to satisfy our needs but has potential for a harvest. *Bread* is for immediate consumption. Wisdom lies in sowing the right thing at the right time.

**Immeasurably More Requires Sacrifice**

**Primary Goal:** 100% participation in surrender and trust. We want everyone at Agape Church to join this vision, united in purpose.

**Impact & Opportunity Goal:** $75,000 in generosity and sacrifice to fund the vision God has given us over the next 51 days.

Now is the time to act in faith and invest in God’s plan for Agape Church.

TITHING IS A VALUABLE WEAPON GOD HAS GIVEN US TO MEET OUR NEEDS. Malachi 3:6-10 (NIV) “I the Lord do not change... Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse... Test me in this... see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”

Tithing means giving 10%—the first 10% belongs to God and is holy.

Obedience starts with the tithe; anything above is an offering.

The Background Story The people faced drought and pestilence due to disobedience, indicating that heaven, not the world, was their problem.

IMMEASURABLY MORE PRINCIPLES True financial prosperity includes soul transformation. God invites us to return to His commands.

ERRONEOUS THINKING ABOUT TITHING Some say tithing is only for the Old Testament, but Abraham tithed to Melchizedek before the Law. Hebrews 7:11-18 shows Jesus continues that priesthood. We give to honor God, as seen in Deuteronomy 14:23. Giving is an expression of gratitude. 1 Corinthians 10:26 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us that God gives us the ability to produce wealth. We give to teach ourselves to trust God (Hebrews 11:6). God is our source; resources should not control us. Generational blessings stem from our godly decisions. 2 Samuel 7:11-13 shows God’s promise to David extends to his descendants, illustrating how our good choices can impact future generations. We give to demonstrate God’s love through generosity.

THE 9 QUESTION PRIDE TEST

1.    Do you need a lot of attention?

2.   Do you become jealous or critical of people who succeed?

3.   Do you always have to win?

4.   Do you have a pattern of lying?

5.   Do you have a hard time confessing you were wrong?

6.   Do you consistently have conflicts with other people?

7.    Do you feel like rules apply to others?

8.   Are you teachable?

9.   Do you often have an attitude of entitlement?

INDICATORS ABOUT PRIDE

Pride believes holy things can be TREATED LIGHTLY or with DISRESPECT.

Pride becomes ANGRY WHEN CORRECTED by godly voices.

You either HOLD ONTO HUMILITY and allow God to lift you up, or you PAMPER PRIDE and God knocks you down.

OVERLOAD – when we are doing too much against the capacity that we have to do it

DIFFERENT KINDS OF OVERLOAD

- ACTIVITY Overload

- CHANGE Overload

- CHOICE Overload

- COMMITMENT Overload

- DEBT Overload

- INFORMATION Overload

STRATEGIES TO OVERCOME BURNOUT

1. PRIORITIZE REST AND SABBATH (Genesis 2:2-3; Matthew 11:28-30)

2. RELY ON GOD'S STRENGTH, NOT YOUR OWN (Isaiah 40:31)

3. PRACTICE SPIRITUAL RENEWAL (Romans 12:2 )    

4. STAY CONNECTED TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY (Hebrews 10:24-25; Galatians 6:2)

1. Ignore basic human needs like sleep, exercise, and nutrition.

2. Seek happiness through material possessions.

3. Compare your life with others.

4. Obsess over global tragedies.

5. Live at an unsustainable pace, leading to isolation.

**Objective:** Reduce and manage anxiety, and allow God to work through it for His glory.

**Scripture: 1 Peter 5:8-11 (NIV):** Be alert and of sober mind. The devil seeks to devour. Resist him, knowing others share your struggles. God will restore and strengthen you.

**Types of Anxiety:**

- Situational Anxiety

- Ongoing Anxiety (e.g., phobias, social anxiety)

Disqualified from Cal Poly because of my grades; got an opportunity to see a therapist;

THERE IS HOPE IN JESUS” John 5:6 (NKJV)

A journey surrounding mental health within our faith community. We are committed to looking to God's Word to guide us in dispelling myths & embracing mental health in accordance with His will and plan.

Are you internally battling real depression, real anxiety, can’t let go of the stress, & dealing with crippling fear.

DEFINING MENTAL HEALTH: Mental Health is probably not the best term to describe what we’re talking about because it’s more involved that that… When we say “Mental Health” we’re talking about spiritually health, emotionally health, & being relationally health How you THINK – IMPACTS – how you FEEL – IMPACTS - how you LIVE Your mental health determines how I handle stress; how I relate to people; how I make choices; how I bounce back from disappointment…

[WHAT DOES JESUS SAY ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH…] John 14:27 (NIV) If you are overwhelmed with fear, overwhelmed with anxiety, You are absolutely human but that IS NOT FROM GOD!

Romans 15:13 (NIV) Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV)

MYTHS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH THAT ARE VERY DESTRUCTIVE

Myth #1: Mental Illness is a Sign of Weak Faith

Myth #2: Christians Should Not Struggle With Mental Health

Elijah: 1 Kings 18-19; David: 1 Samuel 17; Jeremiah (The Weeping Prophet): Whole Book

Myth #3: Seeking Professional Help is a Sign of Weakness

Proverbs 15:22 (NIV) 1 Corinthians 12:26 Sometimes you will need to learn some tools so that you can walk in the mental health Jesus has paid the price for you to live in.

Myth #4: Mental Illness is a Punishment for Sin

THREE STEPS TO INCREASE MENTAL HEALTH

Don’t Go At It Alone, Find the Support You Need

Be Diligent to Address Your Thoughts in a Biblical Way Romans 12:2 2 Corinthians 10:4-5

[John Maxwell…] How Transformational Change Happens: When you change YOUR THINKING, you change YOUR BELIEFS. When you change YOUR BELIEFS, you change YOUR EXPECTATIONS. When you change YOUR EXPECTATIONS, you change YOUR ATTITUDE. When you change YOUR ATTITUDE, you change YOUR BEHAVIOR. When you change YOUR BEHAVIOR, you change YOUR LIFE. ALL LIFE CHANGE STARTS WHEN I CHANGE THE WAY I THINK

Remember It All Starts With God and God Is For You Most people overwhelmed with discouragement and depression somehow feel like God is not for them and that He is actually against them.

SPIRITUAL MATURITY takes time

commit to daily spiritual disciplines - PRAYER, READING GOD'S WORD, and CONNECTING WITH OTHER BELIEVERS

STRENGTH TO FACE GREATER CHALLENGES

"POSITIVE STRUGGLE is a good thing." - Dr. Kiana Pendleton

Embrace the battles you face today as GOD'S TRAINING GROUND

The author of Hebrews implies that THE COVENANT IS ALL OF GOD. (7:22)

1.   The new covenant is better because it has A SUPERIOR HIGH PRIEST.

2.   The new covenant is better because it has A SUPERIOR HEAVENLY SANCTUARY.

3.   The new covenant is better because it has A SUPERIOR FOUNDATION AND PROMISES.

•   This new covenant would not only GOVERN PEOPLE’S OUTWARD BEHAVIOR but would TRANSFORM THEIR LIVES BY MAKING PROFOUND CHANGES IN THEIR MINDS AND HEARTS.

•   This new covenant would RESTORE PEOPLE’S RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD and HELP THEM TO KNOW JESUS THROUGH THE MERCY AND FORGIVING GRACE OF GOD.

The need for replacement of the Law

Jesus is the ultimate and perfect fulfillment of God's promises

Going beyond the basics.

Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, The writer rebuked his readers for their spiritual immaturity but he knew that nothing was gained by treating them as immature. He continued with his instruction and warnings.

Elementary principles: This has the idea of “rudiments” or “ABCs.” They are basic building blocks that are necessary, but must be built upon – otherwise has only a foundation and no structure.

Perfection: This is the ancient Greek word teleiotes, which is much better understood as “maturity.” The writer to the Hebrews did say that we can not reach perfection on this side of eternity, but that we can and should reach a place of maturity in Jesus. The call is plain: let us go on to perfection.