The message focuses on the character and call of church leadership, detailing what a true under-shepherd looks like:

- A Vital Personal Experience: True leadership stems from a deep, growing relationship with Jesus. God constantly cares more about our character than our comfort, and our holiness than our happiness, dynamically chiseling away what does not belong to conform us into the image of Christ.

- The Heart of an Under-Shepherd: Pastors are called to live among the flock and truly smell like sheep. Unlike cattle which are driven heavy-handedly, sheep must be willingly led. Because sheep are naturally defenseless and prone to wander into danger or follow each other off cliffs, God establishes elders to guide, feed, and protect them.

- The Three Structural Warnings: Peter commands elders to lead with specific boundaries: 1) Not under compulsion but willingly out of a divine calling; 2) Not for financial or shameful gain, but out of absolute zeal for God; 3) Not heavy-handedly lording authority over the flock, but serving as a living example.

- The Call to Voluntary Submission: True safety and spiritual flourishing are found when we willingly place ourselves under God-ordained authorities, including government, employers, marriage covenants, and church elders. Pride resists authority, but humility allows us to thrive within the body of Christ.

Pastor Allen concludes with a practical challenge for church owners to commit three hours a week to their spiritual health: one hour in corporate worship, one hour serving others, and one hour in a smaller Life Group community to be truly known.

Using an illustration from an arborist, Pastor Scott explains how trees develop a “root flare” at their base to widen and anchor themselves when facing heavy winds. In the same way, the fierce storms of life are designed to flex our spiritual muscles, breaking us down to build us back up into more mature, deeply rooted followers of Jesus.

The message unpacks three distinct types of human suffering:

• Common Suffering: Hardships that happen simply because we are human beings living in a broken world, like sickness or a leaky utility.

• Carnal Suffering: Consequences and pain that we bring upon ourselves through our own sinful choices, pride, or compromises.

• Christian Suffering: Intentionally facing trials, mockery, or systemic pressure simply for choosing to stand up for righteousness and the name of Jesus.

To navigate these fiery ordeals, Pastor Scott outlines five keys to standing firm:

1. Realize suffering is bound to happen: Salvation is a completely free gift, but living it out puts a spiritual target on your back.

2. Rejoice when suffering does happen: True joy is a conscious internal choice based on our confidence in Jesus, allowing us deep fellowship with Him.

3. Refuse to be ashamed: Do not run from situations that put your faith on display; proudly stand as a Christian to provide a watching world with evidence that God is real.

4. Remember the reward you will receive: Earthly athletic trophies eventually tarnish and fade, but enduring light afflictions for Christ produces an incomparable eternal weight of glory.

5. Remain faithful to God: Entrust your soul to your faithful Creator even when the situation makes no sense, trading your fragile self-reliance for deep reliance on Him.

Don’t quit on God in the middle of the fire. Lean directly into the wind and allow the trial to refine, prove, and strengthen your testimony.

In this message, "Four Faces of Courage," we explore how God’s grace works through brokenness and outsiders:

- Tamar (Courage to Pursue Justice): We look at the "messed up" story of Tamar, who courageously pursued what was right when she was neglected and treated unjustly by those meant to protect her.

- Rahab (Courage to Change): A Canaanite prostitute who risked her life to hide Israelite spies. Her story reminds us that no matter how we were raised, we have the courage to turn in a new direction when faced with the truth of God.

- Ruth (Courage to Trust): An outsider from Moab who gave her life away to care for her mother-in-law. Ruth teaches us what it looks like to take refuge under the wings of the God of Israel without any guarantees.

- Mary (Courage to Surrender): A teenage mom who accepted God’s calling despite the certainty of rumors and social pressure. Her humble submission paved the way for the Savior of the world.

Whether your family tree is full of "Cousin Eddies" or you feel like an outsider today, this message is a reminder that God never wastes your wounds. He uses the most unlikely people to advance His kingdom.

This sermon explores how to "number our days" so that every moment counts for eternity. If you knew Jesus was coming back in just one year, how would your priorities change? We look at four radical expressions of

Christian love that should define our lives in these last days:

- Love Expressed in Forgiveness: Discover how love "covers a multitude of sins" by choosing to let go of grudges and covering the shame of others rather than exposing it.

- Love Expressed in Hospitality: Moving beyond dinner with friends, we look at "radical ordinary hospitality"—opening our homes and lives to those we disagree with to further the Gospel.

- Love Expressed in Service: Every believer is given a spiritual gift for the common good. We discuss what it means to be an "owner" rather than just a "member" of the church, sacrificing rights to serve others.

- Love Expressed for God's Glory: Life is not about our own happiness, but about God’s glory. Learn why the sooner we realize life isn't about us, the more our joy will explode.

The message concludes with a challenge to check your direction. If you realize you’re heading the wrong way spiritually, today is the day to turn around. Following Jesus is a "right now" decision.

The sermon tackles the "difficult verses" of Peter’s letter while keeping the focus on the main point: It’s all about Jesus. Key Takeaways:

- Jesus as our Substitute: Explore the "Great Exchange" where the Righteous One (Jesus) suffered once for the unrighteous (us). We discuss substitutionary atonement—how our sin was imputed to Christ so His righteousness could be imputed to us.

- The Purpose of Suffering: Is happiness the goal of life? Pastor Allen challenges the modern "safetyism" culture, noting that suffering is often God's "Plan A" to develop holiness, endurance, and character. We learn that Jesus didn’t bypass the cross to get to the crown, and neither do we.

- The "Spirits in Prison" and the Ark: We look at the obscure passage regarding Christ proclaiming to spirits and the days of Noah. Learn why the Ark is a "type" of Jesus—we aren't saved by the water of baptism, but through the judgment by being "in the boat" with Christ.

- The Supremacy of Christ: The message concludes with the exaltation of Jesus. He is no longer on the cross or in the grave; He is at the right hand of God with all angels, authorities, and powers subjected to Him.

Whether you are in the middle of a "raging water" season of life or looking for clarity on difficult scriptures, this message is a reminder that while the world is on fire, there is safety on the Ark. Turn to Christ, the Shepherd and Overseer of your soul, while He may be found.

The message outlines three powerful ways to model Christ to a watching world:

- Walking in Love: We explore the five adjectives that should describe the church: unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Pastor John challenges us to extend this love not just to our church family, but to our enemies—blessing those who slander us and seeking peace in the midst of conflict.

- Surrendering to His Lordship: True courage comes from honoring Christ as holy in our hearts. When Jesus is on the throne of our lives, we no longer have to fear the "conspiracies" or threats of the world. This surrender gives us the strength to share our hope boldly yet gently, winning hearts rather than just winning arguments.

- Keeping a Clear Conscience: Like a ship that must seal its watertight doors to stay afloat, we must work to keep our hearts free from the "undergrowth" of sin. We learn the importance of hating what is evil and loving what is good, ensuring our lives match our witness so that those who revile us are put to shame by our good behavior.

The message concludes with a reminder that it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. By looking to the cross and following the example of the Suffering Servant, we can become world-changers who offer a living hope to everyone we meet.

The sermon focuses on how to build a flourishing marriage through the "Ancient Ways" of Scripture:

- Choosing God's Design: We examine the biblical call for wives to practice "winsome and wise" submission—not as a loss of voice or forced dominance, but as a willing partnership that models the relationship between Christ and the Church.

- Cultivating Inner Beauty: In a world that puts immense pressure on external appearance, Peter encourages women to focus on the "imperishable beauty" of a gentle and quiet spirit. Learn why character is what truly sustains a marriage through the "droughts" of life.

- Husbands as Students: Men are challenged to "live in an understanding way" by intentionally studying their wives—learning their fears, hopes, and love languages. Pastor Allen explains that a husband’s leadership is proven by how he cherishes and honors his wife.

- The Warning for Men: We look at the scandalous (for the 1st century) claim that men and women are "joint heirs" of grace. Discover why a husband’s relationship with God is directly tied to how he treats his wife, with the sobering warning that failing to honor her can hinder his very prayers.

The message concludes with a call to stop competing and start completing one another. Whether you are currently married or aspiring to be, this sermon offers a roadmap for a life-giving, Christ-centered home.

The sermon dives into the "Great Exchange" and the physical reality of the resurrection:

- The Rational Case for Easter: We look at "Rational Thomas" and the scared band of disciples who were transformed into bold martyrs. We don't have a New Testament because of a book; we have a New Testament because Jesus actually walked out of the grave.

- The Perfect Sacrifice: Peter paraphrases Isaiah 53 to describe Jesus as the sinless Lamb of God. Unlike the flawed sacrifices of the Old Testament, Jesus was without blemish or deceit, making Him the only one qualified to stand in our place.

- The Scapegoat and the Great Exchange: Discover the meaning of "atonement" through the biblical imagery of the scapegoat. Jesus bore our sins—carrying away the weight of our shame and guilt—and in exchange, He imputed His righteousness to us.

- By His Wounds, We are Healed: We examine the brutal reality of crucifixion and why Jesus had to suffer "in place of us." This isn't just physical healing; it is the spiritual restoration of dead people being made alive.

The message concludes with a look at the modern revival happening among Gen Z and a call to return to the "Overseer and Shepherd of your soul." Whether you are a seeker looking for proof or a believer needing to return to the Shepherd, this Easter message is an invitation to stop running and turn toward the one who has been seeking you all along.

The sermon focuses on three key markers of our spiritual heritage:

- Remember Who You Are: Peter provides four powerful titles for every believer: a Chosen Family, a Royal Priesthood, a Holy Nation, and a People of His Own Possession. These aren’t badges we earn like merit badges; they are gifts given the moment we are born again. We are God’s “treasured possession,” rescued from the fire of sin to live in His marvelous light.

- Remove What Wars Against You: As “sojourners and exiles,” we are living in a world that is not our home. Pastor Allen explains that we must abstain from “passions of the flesh” that wage war against our souls. Using the illustration of a sunken aircraft carrier, we see the danger of not having “watertight doors” in our lives to seal off the temptations that seek to sink our faith.

- Reflect Christ to the World: We are called to keep our conduct “honorable” even when we are slandered or misunderstood. By living out our family values through good deeds, we prepare the way for others to glorify God on their “day of visitation”—the moment God knocks on the door of their own hearts.

The message concludes with the beautiful story of Hosea and Gomer, illustrating how God relentlessly pursues us, ransoms us from our shame, and gives us a new name. Whether you have been far off or are just beginning your journey, you are invited to join the family of God today.

The sermon focuses on three key principles for growing in your faith:

- Reject What Kills Love: Peter instructs us to “put away” behaviors like malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. These aren’t just “bad habits”—they are community-killers that act out of character for those who have a new identity in Christ. Learn how to “weed the garden” of your heart to make room for genuine love.

- Feed What Grows Love: Mature faith doesn’t happen by accident. We are called to “crave” pure spiritual milk—the Word of God—with the same intensity and desperation as a newborn infant. Pastor Allen challenges us to evaluate where we are in the spiritual life cycle (infant, toddler, child, teenager, or parent) and to stop settling for “filler” when God offers deep satisfaction.

- Support One Another in Christ: Using the metaphor of “living stones,” we see that God is building a spiritual house. We are not meant to be lone sheep or isolated stones; we are designed to be connected to the cornerstone, Jesus Christ, and to one another. Discover why staying connected to the body of Christ is the only way to avoid being “devoured” by the enemy.

The message concludes with a challenge: If you want to love well, you must starve your sin, feed your soul, and stay connected to God’s people. Whether you are a seeker “tasting” that the Lord is good for the first time or a long-time believer needing to “grow up,” this message is a roadmap for your spiritual journey.

The sermon focuses on four key markers of our new identity in Christ:

- Set Your Mind on Jesus: Drawing from Peter’s instruction to "prepare your minds for action," we learn the importance of mental discipline. Just as ancient workers tucked their robes into their belts for movement, we must "gird up" our minds by focusing on the future grace of Christ rather than past mistakes or worldly distractions.

- Live Like Jesus: We are called to be "obedient children" who do not conform to the patterns of our former ignorance. Pastor Allen explains that holiness means being set apart from the world's systems to mimic our Father, calling Him "Abba" (Daddy) in an intimate, personal relationship.

- Ransomed by Jesus: Our identity is not based on what others think, but on the fact that we were bought back from a "futile life." We have been redeemed by the precious, unblemished blood of Christ, giving us a "royal bloodline" as children of the King.

- Love Like Jesus: Being part of a new family means loving one another "earnestly" from a pure heart. The word for earnest love implies "stretching" like a runner reaching the finish line—love that is sacrificial, inconvenient, and attractive to a watching world.

The message concludes with a daily declaration to help you remember who you are in Christ every morning. As we look toward the resurrection, let us live as "elect exiles" who are known by the way we love.

The sermon explores the bedrock of our security in Christ:

- Rooted in Mercy: Our salvation is not based on our performance or our past, but on God’s great mercy. Drawing from the life of Peter, we see that betrayal and failure are not the end of the story when they are met with the "chesed" (steadfast love) of God.

- A Living Hope: Unlike a historical memory or a wishful fantasy, our hope is living because our Savior is living. Because Jesus walked out of the grave, our future is anchored in a resurrected reality that cannot be shaken by earthly circumstances.

- An Imperishable Inheritance: Peter describes our heavenly inheritance using three powerful terms: it is imperishable (cannot decay), undefiled (unstained by sin), and unfading (never loses its luster). It is kept in a "heavenly safety deposit box" where neither life nor Satan can touch it.

- Purified by Fire: We discuss the purpose of various trials. Just as gold is not destroyed but purified by fire, our faith is tested and strengthened through hardship. The "hotter the fire," the more the true nature of our faith is revealed and proved.

Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by current trials or struggling with the weight of past mistakes, this message is a reminder that your salvation is guarded by God’s power and secured for all eternity.

The sermon dives into the foundational truths of our identity in Christ:

- Citizens of Another Kingdom: Peter addresses his readers as "exiles" or "sojourners." We are reminded that as Christians, our ultimate citizenship is in heaven. Like pilgrims on a journey, we are passing through a world with a different value system, keeping our eyes fixed on our eternal destination.

- The Comfort of Election: Pastor Allen explores the often-debated doctrine of election, emphasizing that in Scripture, it is always presented as a source of comfort for the suffering saint. To be "elect" means you are chosen, loved, and secured by God, and no one can snatch you from His hand.

- The Mystery of God’s Plan: We look at the beautiful tension between the sovereignty of God and the free will of man. While we may not fully understand how they meet, we trust that God is weaving a masterpiece out of the broken shards of our lives.

- Multiplied Grace and Peace: Discover why Peter prays for grace and peace to be "multiplied" to his readers. This peace is not dependent on circumstances; it is an inward calm that comes from the triune God, regardless of the storms we face.

Whether you are walking through a season of suffering or simply trying to navigate life in "Babylon," this message will encourage you to glance at your problems and glare at your God.

Drawing from the heart of King David in Psalm 103, we learn what it means to truly bless the Lord:

- Remember His Benefits: We often forget the "fringe benefits" of the Gospel. Pastor Allen breaks down how God forgives our iniquity, heals our spiritual diseases, and crowns us with a steadfast love that never runs out.

- The Expanse of Mercy: Explore the infinite nature of God's forgiveness. Using the geography of the heavens and the globe, we see how God separates us from our sins "as far as the east is from the west"—an ever-expanding distance that removes our guilt and shame.

- A Covenant-Keeping God: Discover the deep meaning of Hesed (God's steadfast love) and Yahweh (His covenant name). We are reminded that our security is not based on our performance, but on the strength of the Father who holds us secure when the waves of life crash.

- Holy, Holy, Holy: Why do the angels cry out "Holy" rather than "Sovereign" or "Love"? We examine how God's holiness colors every other attribute, ensuring that He is not just powerful, but perfectly good, and not just loving, but perfectly just.

The message concludes with a challenge to awake your soul and sing. Whether you need to confess, surrender, or simply rest in His mercy, this is an invitation to be reconciled to a holy God through the atoning work of Jesus Christ.

The message dives into the qualities that forged these “broken people” into world-changers:

- Strength from Brokenness: Before they were “Mighty Men,” they were a group of 400 individuals in distress, in debt, and bitter in soul. God specializes in taking the broken and qualifying them for a mission greater than themselves.

- The Courage to Stand Alone: While others fled, men like Shammah took a stand in a field of lentils, defending his master’s ground and seeing God bring about a great victory. We learn that to stand out for Christ, you often have to be willing to stand alone.

- Leadership in the “Snowy Pits”: We look at the “bad to the bone” exploits of Benaiah, who killed a lion in a pit on a snowy day. True character is proven in the dangerous and uncertain seasons of life, not just on “sunny fields”.

- The Power of Your Circle: Your growth is directly related to those around you. Pastor Dustin challenges us to find a brotherhood or community that holds us accountable and pushes us to be better leaders, parents, and friends.

The message concludes with a call to honesty. God doesn’t use the perfect; He uses those who are honest about their failures and willing to surrender to the perfect Savior, Jesus Christ.

The sermon breaks down the heart of intercessory prayer and God’s righteous character:

- Loving Justice and Mercy: We love justice because God loves justice. We examine why a holy God must judge sin to be a fair judge, yet how He simultaneously invites us into a "cosmic conversation" to plead for mercy on behalf of others.

- Drawing Near to the Bench: Abraham "drew near" to God—a legal term for approaching a judge’s bench. We learn how we, as believers, are called to be conduits of blessing and priests who intercede for nations, communities, and individuals far from God.

- The Power of the Righteous Few: Abraham’s negotiation with God (from 50 down to 10 righteous people) reveals a powerful truth: God is willing to restrain judgment for the sake of a righteous remnant. We see how this points directly to Jesus, the only truly Righteous One who became the substitute for the unrighteous many.

- A Call to Intercede: This week, our church enters a 24/7 week of prayer. We are challenged to "stand in the gap" for those who don't even know they need to be fought for—from world leaders to our own neighbors and family members.

The message concludes with a reminder that we were all once "unrighteous ones" until the Good Shepherd left the ninety-nine to come after us. Do not give up on those you love; instead, draw near to the Father and plead for His mercy today.

Using the story of the resurrection of Lazarus in John 11, the sermon highlights the journey from bondage to liberation:

- The Weight of the Secret: We discuss how unconfessed sin acts like "spiritual grave clothes," binding us and keeping us in a state of decay. Just as Lazarus was alive but still bound in his burial wrappings, many believers are saved but still hindered by the weight of hidden guilt and shame.

- The Healing Power of Community: Jesus commanded the community to "unbind him and let him go." Confession is not just a private act between us and God; it is a communal practice. We learn how inviting "2:00 AM friends" into our struggles provides the support needed to stay free.

- From Oppression to Forgiveness: Drawing from Psalm 32, Pastor Allen illustrates the physical and emotional toll of keeping silent about our sins. True refreshment and the "lifting of the weight" only come when we stop hiding and start being honest before God and others.

The message concludes with a powerful invitation to leave your "grave clothes" at the altar. Whether you are dealing with a small entanglement or a major stronghold, today is the day to experience the radical forgiveness and transformation that only Jesus can provide.

The sermon highlights three key phases of Jacob’s journey that reflect our own:

- Jacob the Deceiver: Like many of us, Jacob relied on his own intelligence, manipulation, and self-preservation to get ahead. We see how pride often leads us to a dead end where our own strategies can no longer save us.

- The Encounter in Solitude: God often meets us when we are alone and at our weakest. We look at how God stripped away Jacob’s family, possessions, and control to lead him to a place of solitude. It is in these quiet, distracted-free moments that we truly begin to hear God’s voice.

- Clinging vs. Striving: In the heat of the struggle, God dislocated Jacob’s hip, forcing him to move from striving in his own strength to clinging to God for a blessing. Jacob walked away with a new name (Israel) and a limp—a testimony that true success is found in dependence on God, not ourselves.

The message concludes with a challenge to stop “wrestling” against God’s will and to wave the white flag of surrender. Whether it is your finances, your reputation, or a specific habit, true freedom begins when you open your hands and let go.

The sermon explores the reality of living in a broken world and how to navigate deep emotional distress:

- Brokenness and Culture: Hannah lived in a world of rivalry and cultural pressure, where her value was often tied to her ability to have children. Today, our culture is just as oppressive, dictating value based on careers, appearance, or income.

- The Choice in Our Pain: Brokenness either drives us toward God or deeper into brokenness. Hannah reached a point where she "rose"—a Hebrew idiom meaning she was done with the social pressures and decided to go to the only Person who could truly heal her heart.

- Approaching the Lord of Hosts: Hannah cried out to the "Lord of Hosts," the all-powerful God of armies, yet she knew she could come to Him as a daughter. Like a child playing under a father’s desk during important meetings, we are always welcome in the presence of God.

- Peace Before the Promise: Perhaps the most critical part of Hannah's story is that she found peace before her petition was granted. She realized that what she truly needed wasn't just a child, but a relationship with God that anchored her soul.

If you are carrying a heavy burden or feeling empty despite your achievements, this message is an invitation to bring those burdens to the Father. Stop going back to broken cisterns and come to the well of living water.

The sermon focuses on moving from cultural Christianity to spiritual vitality through three ancient disciplines:

- The Rhythm of Sabbath: We explore why God gave us the gift of rest—not because He was tired, but to set a pattern for our well-being. Learn how to “cease, rest, delight, and worship” to break the cycle of endless striving and find fulfillment in Christ alone.

- The Discipline of Fasting: Pastor Allen calls the church to a communal fast, declaring that our deepest need is not to be filled by the world, but to be formed by God. We discuss how fasting shows the Father our desperation for Him and invites His power into our lives.

- The Power of Scripture Memory: Over the next 40 days, our church will memorize Romans 12. Discover how writing God’s Word on the “tablet of your heart” provides the mental and spiritual strength needed to navigate life’s crossroads.

The message concludes with a warning from Jeremiah’s time: many heard the invitation to rest but chose to continue in their own rebellion. Don’t let that be your story. Respond to the gentle and lowly heart of Jesus today and begin walking the path that leads to life.

The sermon highlights three key areas of spiritual focus:

- The Source of Living Water: We are invited to stop digging "broken cisterns"—temporary fixes like materialism or consumerism—and return to Jesus, the only source of living water that truly satisfies the soul.

- The Heart of God: Discover the only place in Scripture where Jesus describes His own heart: as "gentle and lowly." This approachable Savior invites the weary to find rest that the world cannot provide.

- A Posture of Thanksgiving: Using Psalm 100, Pastor Allen encourages us to find our identity in the fact that we belong to God as the sheep of His pasture.

The message concludes with a celebration of God’s faithfulness—including 161 baptisms in the past year—and a challenge to commit to a new journey of unwrapping God's gifts of mercy and grace.

The sermon explores three key takeaways from Acts chapter 28:

- Hope, Not Rebellion: Paul emphasizes that the Gospel is not a political threat but the fulfillment of the Hope of Israel. He identifies as a "prisoner of Christ," choosing to submit to God's lordship regardless of his physical bonds.

- The Softening of Hearts: Even in his exhaustion, Paul spends days expounding the scriptures to anyone who would listen. While some reject the message, the Gospel continues to soften hardened hearts and produce belief in those who truly perceive the truth.

- A Bold and Unhindered Witness: The book of Acts ends abruptly with Paul proclaiming the Kingdom of God with all boldness. This "unfinished" ending serves as a handoff to us—the church today—to continue writing the story of the Gospel's advance in our own communities.

As we look toward 2026, Pastor Jon challenges us to move from being "a mile wide and an inch deep" to resting deeply in the Lord and living with a responsive heart. Whether you are wrestling with a hardened heart or looking for your next step in faith, this message is a call to be an obedient ambassador for Christ.

The sermon explores three critical themes from Paul’s testimony:

- Radical Grace vs. Religious Achievement: Paul shares his background as a legalistic Pharisee who once persecuted the church, proving that salvation is not earned through strict rules but received through the promise of the resurrection.

- Transformation, Not Just Information: Recounting his Damascus Road encounter, Paul explains that the Gospel's aim is to open eyes and turn people "from darkness to light" and "from the power of Satan to God."

- The Tragedy of Being "Almost Persuaded": Despite hearing the rational truth, King Agrippa remains unmoved, highlighting the danger of being close to the truth without surrendering to it.

Paul argues that Christianity, while supernatural, is entirely rational and is the fulfillment of ancient promises. Don't remain a prisoner to empty pursuits—experience the freedom of the light today.

The sermon explores four major themes in Paul’s story that apply to every believer today:

Compassion—God’s Extravagant Love: Paul opens with respect, addressing the crowd in Hebrew and sharing his elite background as a student of Gamaliel. He openly confesses his past as a murderer of “the Way,” proving that God’s grace is greater than any past and that He pays the penalty for our sins once and for all.

Conversion—A Life Redirected by Christ: Paul recounts the Damascus Road encounter where Jesus personally intervened. This reminds us that God is the initiator of salvation, coming to seek and save the lost right where they are—whether in a church, a tree, or on a road.

Confirmation—Evidence of Change: Through the healing of his blindness and the witness of Ananias, Paul’s life shows the immediate and undeniable power of God. The promise remains: everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Calling—Sent with Purpose: Paul reveals his specific mission to go “far to the Gentiles.” This fulfills the ancient promise that God’s people would be a blessing to all nations, breaking down every cultural and socio-economic barrier.

The greatest story ever told is not just Paul’s—it is the story of the day Jesus came to you. We invite you to surrender to His grace and find your new purpose in Him.

The sermon outlines the key responsibilities and character required of Christian leaders and applies these characteristics to all believers:

- The Character of a Christian (Acts 20:18-27): Paul modeled integrity, serving the Lord with all humility and tears, enduring trials, and demonstrating that sacrificial living is greater than playing it safe by declaring: “I do not account my life of any value.” He declared the whole counsel of God, refusing to “cherry pick” parts of Scripture.

- The Heart of a Shepherd (Acts 20:28-35): The shepherd’s duty is to protect the flock from “fierce wolves” who twist the truth, to care for them with the Word of God, and to give/help the weak, living out Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” The good shepherd searches for the one lost sheep, just as Jesus left heaven to seek and save the lost.

The message is a powerful reminder that all believers are called to be on mission, sacrificing their comfort, and that Jesus, the Good Shepherd, loves, seeks, and forgives.

The sermon identifies four types of people encountered:

- Some will need clarity and completeness: Like Apollos, a passionate but partially taught believer, some sincerely know about Jesus (John's baptism) but lack the full understanding of Christ's redemptive work and the Holy Spirit. We must be like Priscilla and Aquila, offering patient instruction and clarity, not public condemnation.

- Some will need to be called out and need consistency: Paul encountered twelve disciples who only knew John's baptism, moving them from religious activity to spiritual vitality. In contrast, others in the synagogue became obstinate and publicly maligned the Gospel, showing inconsistency between their profession and practice. An authentic Christian life requires surrender to biblical authority, not just knowledge.

- Some will need Christ and His character: When the seven sons of Sceva tried to use Jesus' name as a magical formula for exorcism, the evil spirit responded: "Jesus I know, Paul I know, but who are you?". This exposes that power comes only from a union and relationship with Jesus, not imitated spiritual power.

- Some will need confrontation and courage: The public riot in Ephesus, stirred by the silversmith Demetrius, shows that resistance to the Gospel often comes because it threatens an idol—in this case, the economic engine of the Temple of Artemis.

Pastor Scott concludes by urging listeners to seek deeper clarity, authentic witness, and the courage to dethrone idols by making Jesus Lord of their identity and priorities.

The sermon focuses on how God works through unexpected means:

1. The Presence of God Leads Us: Paul's plans to go east were forbidden by the Holy Spirit (closed doors), and a vision of the Man of Macedonia redirected him west across the Aegean Sea—the first step of the Gospel into Europe. The sermon affirms that God directs the steps of the righteous, using "no's" to lead us to His will.

2. The Purpose of God Fulfills Us: Paul finds a place of prayer, not a synagogue, and ministers to women. The first convert in Europe is Lydia, a successful businesswoman and "God-fearer." God used an unmarried, successful businesswoman to start the church in Europe, demonstrating that He cares less about our past brokenness and more about where we're going.

3. The Power of God Delivers Us: Paul and Silas deliver a slave girl from demonic possession, leading to their brutal beating and imprisonment. Despite being thrown into the inner prison, they are found praying and singing hymns at midnight. This praise leads to a miraculous earthquake that frees them and leads to the dramatic conversion of the Philippian Jailer and his entire household. The sermon emphasizes that only the finished work of Christ is needed for salvation: "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved."

The message concludes with the powerful testimony of Horatio Spafford, who, after immense tragedy, wrote the hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul," reminding us to glare at God, not at our problems.

Pastor Allen uses the council's decision to affirm six points:

1. Conflict arises when convictions become conditions : Adding anything (like circumcision or moralistic behavior) to Jesus plus nothing equals nothing. Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone.

2. Healthy churches create space for hard conversations : Disagreements are inevitable, but unity is paramount, often requiring grace and concession.

3. There's grace for all: The Council decided that the law was an unbearable yoke that no one—not even Moses—could bear; Christ is sufficient and salvation is for Jews and Gentiles alike.

4. This was all about unity, not uniformity : The four non-salvation prohibitions given to Gentiles were concessions to avoid being a stumbling block to Jews and to ensure new converts truly left behind pagan worship and sexual immorality.

5. Spiritual authority is not about control, but about alignment.

6. Gospel clarity doesn't eliminate human intention : Even Paul and Barnabas had a "sharp disagreement" over John Mark and separated, but the Gospel ultimately redeems and reconciles.

Pastor Allen closes by condemning "repressive religion" that shames, reminding listeners that God sees them as a fully restored "new rose" and beloved child, welcoming all to receive His free and finished grace.

The sermon focuses on the theme of grace as the core of the Christian life:

The Grace of God Cleanses You: Preaching to Jews and Gentiles in the synagogue, Paul contrasts the Law of Moses (which only points out sin) with the Grace of God (which offers forgiveness and frees believers). This is a call to honesty, rejecting the "mask of pretension," and finding freedom in the finished work of Christ.

The Grace of God Commissions You: Paul, once a zealot who murdered Christians, was not only saved by grace but sent by grace. His life illustrates the urgency of sharing the Gospel with the whole world, driven by a deep understanding of God's unmerited favor.

The Grace of God Causes Celebration: When the Gentiles heard the message of full inclusion in the family of God, they began rejoicing. Persecution followed, but Paul and Barnabas were "filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit" because they were being faithful.

Pastor Allen uses powerful testimonies of transformation and a compelling invitation to encourage listeners to become "trophies of grace" by receiving Christ, getting baptized, and becoming an active owner of the local church family.

Pastor Allen highlights three marks of a healthy New Testament church:

-- They Pass It On: Scattered by persecution after Stephen's martyrdom, ordinary disciples preached the Gospel to Hellenists (Greeks/Pagans) in the decadent city of Antioch, demonstrating that evangelism is the responsibility of every believer.

-- They Come Alongside: The Jerusalem church sent Barnabas—the "Son of Encouragement"—who found a place where grace abounds and exhorted them to remain faithful. This illustrates the necessary parakaleo—coming alongside one another to speak truth (rebuke) and offer mercy (encouragement).

-- They Bring Others: After a year of intense discipleship by Barnabas and Paul, "they were first called Christians," a term initially derogatory but embraced as a badge of honor, signifying they were "soldiers of Christ." This church was diverse in ethnicity and socioeconomic status, reflecting that the Gospel is for all people.

The sermon concludes by emphasizing a fourth mark: Giving Graciously. The Antioch church immediately demonstrated generosity by raising relief for the brothers in Judea, modeling sacrificial giving—for "God so loved the world, He gave."

Pastor Allen breaks down the account into three main points:

-- A Devout Seeker, God Notices: Cornelius was a highly moral, pious, generous, and prayerful man—yet he was still missing Jesus. The sermon emphasizes that being "good" is not enough, as we are all "dead in our transgressions and sins" and need the resurrection life of Christ.

-- A Reluctant Apostle, God Redirects: God uses a vision of "unclean" animals, repeated three times, to teach Peter that what God has cleansed, he should not call common. This vision, alongside the Spirit's clear direction, compels Peter to cross the threshold into a Gentile home, shattering deeply held cultural and theological barriers.

-- A Public Confirmation, God Provides: Peter preaches that God shows no partiality. The message is one of peace—reconciliation with God through Jesus' atoning sacrifice—and the declaration that Jesus is Lord of all. The Holy Spirit falling on the Gentiles is the undeniable public verification that salvation is now through rebirth, not birthright, and is for everyone who believes.

The sermon first highlights the cruel depravity of the human heart as seen in Saul, who was "breathing murderous threats" and ravaging the church—a picture sadly reflected in modern-day persecution. It then focuses on Saul's surprising, radical encounter with the Way, as Jesus personally defends His followers, stating, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" The three days Saul spent blinded is presented as a metaphor for dying to self, underscoring that we must die before we can be resurrected. Finally, the sermon celebrates Paul's life transformed by the power of the gospel, which immediately turned him from persecutor to proclaimer.

Pastor Allen uses the humble figure of Ananias and the story of Billy Graham's conversion to encourage listeners that while we may not be the next Paul, we can all be an obedient "usher" or a faithful follower used by God to impact the world. He closes with an invitation to lay burdens down and accept the abundant life that Jesus offers, even amid suffering.

Drawing from Ephesians 5:22-33, Pastor Bob outlines God’s design for the home:

-- Husbands are commanded to love their wives as Christ loved the church. This love, agape, is a commitment to doing the right thing regardless of feeling. It is expressed by sacrificing for her, focusing on her positive qualities, and being perceptive of her needs (affection, conversation, trust, financial security, and family commitment).

-- Wives are commanded to respect their husbands. This respect is an act of submission to the husband's delegated leadership, even if the wife is more capable, acknowledging the Lordship of Christ. It is expressed by responding to his needs (including sexual fulfillment and admiration).

The sermon is a candid call for authenticity, reminding couples to stick together even through disagreements, and emphasizing that forgiveness must always trump divorce. Pastor Bob closes with a heartfelt invitation for couples to come forward for prayer to strengthen their marriage or for individuals to accept Christ as their Savior.

Pastor Scott emphasizes that while salvation is free, following Jesus will cost you everything. He challenges the notion of the comfortable Christian, urging believers to move from being spiritual consumers to contributors. The message culminates in Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God—a powerful image interpreted as Christ rising to acknowledge and honor Stephen's sacrifice. Pastor Scott encourages all believers to live with the readiness to suffer for Christ, assuring them that the worth of eternal glory far outweighs the sufferings of this present time.

Pastor Allen uses the judgment of Ananias and Sapphira as a sober reminder that God demands the purity of His church, caring more about our holiness and character than our comfort. He clarifies that their sin was not compulsory giving, but lying and trying to earn favor—a heart issue. The message transitions to the apostles' incredible boldness before the Sanhedrin, where they proclaimed the name of Jesus despite beatings. This sermon is a powerful call to be a bold witness, sharing personal testimony and prioritizing the Lord's work while the Spirit of God is moving and the "night is coming."

This sermon explores three key truths from this passage: First, Jesus alone has the power to bring true healing, transcending the world’s temporary answers of politics, education, or relationships. Second, we are all called to be living witnesses to that power, sharing our own stories of resurrection from spiritual death. Finally, Pastor Allen delivers a challenging but life-giving invitation to “come and die”—to surrender completely to Christ, because only when we lose our lives for His sake will we truly find them.

Pastor Allen dives into Acts chapter 2 to explain the significance of Pentecost. He clarifies that this was not when the Holy Spirit first came into existence, but when He began to dwell permanently within believers. This is a critical distinction, as the Christian worldview teaches that the problem is internal, and the solution, the Holy Spirit, comes from an external source—heaven. He explains that the Holy Spirit’s presence is our “birth certificate” and “guarantee” of salvation, identifying us as children of God.

The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder that the hope of the gospel is for all people, transcending language and culture, a reversal of the Tower of Babel. Pastor Allen challenges listeners to recognize that the true miracle is not signs and wonders, but a life resurrected from spiritual death. He invites all to repent and be baptized, to receive the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Shannon explores Esther’s famous line, "if I perish, I perish," as a model for courage in the face of adversity. She contrasts our human efforts to control life, symbolized by paper clips and post-it notes, with making Jesus the true center. Using the metaphor of a magnet, she explains that when Jesus is at the center, He pulls all our chaotic circumstances together.

This message is a heartfelt call to recognize our God-given purpose and to trust in Him, even in uncertain times. Shannon shares a powerful personal testimony about her journey with community and vulnerability, and she introduces a friend who shares her story of finding hope and salvation through a life group. The session concludes with an invitation for every woman to take her next step in faith, whether it's giving up control for the first time or simply seeking to make Jesus the center of her life.

This sermon dives into the first chapter of Acts, revealing why the early church was so powerful. Pastor Allen explains that the church is an unstoppable force because believers are "witnesses to the resurrection," empowered by the Holy Spirit. He clarifies that being a witness means dying to self and proclaiming the transformative power of Jesus's resurrection and God's love. He also discusses the Holy Spirit as the "guarantee" of Jesus's return.

The message is a call for believers to be filled with the Spirit's power by weeding out sin, fertilizing their lives with prayer and God's Word, and actively sharing their faith. Pastor Allen concludes with a powerful invitation to those who may be struggling with sin or who have never surrendered to Christ, reminding them not to reject the Holy Spirit's leading, but to say "yes" to Him.

The sermon tackles the difficult and controversial passage in Ezra 10 where the Israelites, in an act of repentance, are told to put away their foreign wives and children. Pastor Allen first sets the stage by explaining that the purpose of marriage is to show the world what a relationship with God looks like. He illustrates this with the biblical foundation of marriage as "one flesh" and the picture of God's covenantal love in the story of Hosea and Gomer. He clarifies that the prohibition against intermarriage was not about race, but about interfaith relationships with those who practiced pagan religions, including human sacrifice and cannibalism.

Pastor Allen presents two common interpretations of Ezra 10—whether the divorces were a morally appropriate response to protect the community or if they were a wrong decision despite the people's earnest repentance. He explains his position that this was a descriptive, not prescriptive, truth, as other prophets like Malachi taught that God hates divorce. The ultimate lesson from this difficult text is about the importance of being holy and set apart from the world. Pastor Allen challenges the audience to recognize their own modern-day idols, such as materialism, lust, or self-worship, and to be quick to repent and turn back to God.

This sermon explores the Israelites’ powerful response to hearing the Law of Moses read aloud for the first time in generations. He contrasts their reverent attention and joyful worship with a modern-day spiritual complacency that can be caused by being over-familiar with Christian traditions.

Discover three key lessons for spiritual renewal:

-- The Word of God Is Elevated: The Israelites’ reverence for Scripture, symbolized by building a platform for Ezra to read from, reminds us to elevate God’s Word as the most important thing in our lives. Pastor Brent warns against over-familiarity, which can lead to a lack of genuine response and a compartmentalized faith.

-- We Need Each Other to Make Sense of the Word: The Levites helped the people understand the meaning of the Law, demonstrating the critical role of community in our spiritual growth. Just as a severed foot cannot survive alone, Christians need to be connected to the body of Christ to thrive and avoid spiritual drift.

-- The Joy of the Lord Is Your Strength: After weeping over their sin, the people were commanded to stop mourning and celebrate, for “the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This shows that true joy comes from understanding God’s goodness and responding to His Word with a heart of gratitude, which in turn inspires action.

This message is a call to move beyond passive faith and embrace an active, communal, and joyful relationship with God. It challenges us to fight against spiritual complacency, find accountability, and respond to the Word of God with the same awe and reverence as the people in Nehemiah’s time.

The sermon dives into Ezra’s profound response to the sin of his people, who had mixed with foreign nations and their abominable religious practices. This intermarriage, which led to idolatry and child sacrifice, was not an issue of ethnicity, but of religious compromise. Ezra’s intense, public display of grief and shame—tearing his clothes and plucking his hair and beard—serves as a model of true repentance and a deep burden for the sins of others.

Dustin outlines three key points from the passage:

The People Were Broken for Their Sin: The returning exiles, like the biblical figure of Ezra, demonstrated genuine brokenness, weeping bitterly over their unfaithfulness, recognizing that even small sins can have devastating consequences.

Ezra Was Burdened Over Sin: Ezra’s prayer and confession, even though he was not personally involved, show a profound identification with the sins of the people. This example challenges us to move from gossiping about others’ sins to interceding for them and holding them accountable.

Blessed by Mercy: Despite their unfaithfulness, God had not forsaken them, but extended His steadfast, unfailing love. This passage reminds us that God’s grace and mercy are always available, providing hope for a new beginning and a fresh start every day.

The message concludes with a powerful invitation for both believers and non-believers. For those who don’t know Christ, it is a call to acknowledge sin and receive salvation. For believers, it is a challenge to confess, repent, and find freedom from the habitual sin that separates them from God.

This sermon focuses on the theme of God's hand of favor, guidance, and protection. He explains that for the "good hand of the Lord" to be on you, your heart must be set on three things, just as Ezra's was:

To Study: To diligently study and ask questions about God's Word, moving beyond just reading it.

To Do: To apply God's Word to your life, understanding that belief must be turned into action.

To Teach: To share what you've learned with others, discipling them to do the same.

Pastor Allen contrasts the Old Testament experience, where the Spirit of God was "on" people for specific purposes, with the New Covenant reality for believers, where the Spirit of God dwells "in" us. He reminds us that as a born-again believer, you are the temple of the Holy Spirit, with constant access to God's presence and all the resources of heaven.

He also shares an encouraging lesson on God's timing and provision, citing the example of Ezra's journey and God's intervention, even through a pagan king, to finance and protect His mission. This message is a heartfelt invitation to surrender to Jesus, confess sin, and live in the confidence that His hand is on you.

He provides a brief history of Israel’s exile and return, setting the stage for the narrative in Ezra where God’s people, after a 16-year delay caused by opposition, are encouraged by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah to resume rebuilding the temple. This message reminds us that in this fallen world, we will have trouble, but God’s presence and promises remain firm.

Discover three key points for overcoming life’s challenges:

-- You will have trouble, but take heart: Understand that opposition is a normal part of the Christian life. Pastor Allen explains how God disciplines those He loves and reminds us that our reward is not in this world, but in the next.

-- God will provide for His mission: He illustrates how God not only encouraged the builders to resume work but also commanded their adversaries to pay for the project, proving that where God guides, He provides.

-- Jesus has overcome the world: The sermon concludes by linking the rebuilt temple in Ezra to Jesus’s declaration that He is the new temple. This emphasizes that intimate relationship with God, not a physical location, is the true path to freedom, salvation, and joy.

This message is a powerful call to surrender to God, overcome internal and external opposition, and rediscover the joy that comes from trusting in His sovereignty and the finished work of Jesus Christ.

This sermon explores four key aspects of the adversary's tactics:

-- Deception: How enemies (like the Samaritans in Ezra) offer seemingly helpful partnerships to corrupt God's work.

-- Discouragement: The enemy's attempts to create frustration and intimidation to halt spiritual progress.

-- Defamation: The use of slander, false accusations, and "half-truths" to undermine God's people and their mission.

-- Decree: The painful reality that even obedience to God's command does not exempt us from severe opposition and setbacks.

Pastor Scott provides current examples of adversaries facing the church today, including disunity, following pastors over Christ, consumer Christianity, lack of discipleship, and sin within the church, noting alarming statistics about church closures and pastoral resignations.

Learn vital responses to opposition: expect it, discern and resist deceptive partnerships, stand firm against discouragement and slander, and trust in God's unwavering sovereignty. He passionately reminds us that whatever it is that the enemy is designed for evil in your life, God desires to use it for good.

This message is a powerful call to stand firm in faith, knowing that the same God who starts a work in us will complete it until the day He returns.

Hanley reminds us of our identity as God's chosen people, made by God and for God, with a purpose to proclaim His excellencies to the world. He highlights that forgetting this purpose can lead to drifting, but God, in His immense patience and mercy, continually offers second chances. The sermon emphasizes that true rebuilding begins with repentance and leads to genuine worship.

Discover how the returned exiles in Ezra prioritized rebuilding the altar and laying the temple's foundation, even amid fear from surrounding peoples. This serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize God's presence and His Word in our lives, building upon the "cornerstone of Jesus." Hanley challenges listeners to allow Scripture to shape their perception of life, hope, and worship more profoundly than worldly influences.

Experience the mixed emotions of worship, a blend of joy for God's new work and sorrowful repentance for past failures, all united by God's steadfast love that "endures forever." This sermon is a heartfelt call to respond to God's continuous invitation to return, rebuild, and live faithfully for His glory, recognizing that even a "heap of ruins is a foundation of God's great work."

This sermon highlights incredible stories of God’s recent work, from college students finding Christ in Spain where conversions are rare, to record numbers at 1451 Camp, and two students giving their lives to Christ at a public park prayer meeting. These events demonstrate a season of spiritual renewal and rebuilding within the church.

Delving into Ezra 1, Pastor Allen reveals key truths:

-- God is in control: He orchestrates historical events, even using pagan kings like Cyrus, to fulfill His purposes. He cites Jeremiah’s 70-year prophecy as a testament to God’s precise timing and faithfulness.

-- God will provide for His mission: Just as God moved Pharaoh’s heart during the Exodus, He stirs hearts and provides resources, even using the secular world’s wealth, for His work. He often works through a faithful remnant, not necessarily the masses.

-- God calls His people to respond: He invites us to leave spiritual “Babylon” (exile from Him) and return to our first love, regardless of how long we’ve been away. God’s desire is for His presence to be known in every community.

Discover how God is stirring hearts for evangelism, liberal giving, and full-time ministry. This message is a powerful call to surrender to Christ, trust in His perfect plan, and boldly engage in His mission.

Pastor Dustin shares a compelling statistical finding: where you are spiritually by age 18 is likely where you'll stay for life. This underscores the critical importance of investing in the spiritual development of teenagers, with a call to action for both students to take their faith seriously and parents to prioritize God, His kingdom, and His church above all else.

Hear inspiring testimonies from students as they share their "next steps" in faith, including commitments to ministry, sharing the Gospel with friends, releasing worldly distractions, and starting Bible studies.

Drawing from John 12 and the historical "Haystack Revival" of 1806, Pastor Dustin challenges believers to "put wood on the fire" through prayer and continued spiritual growth. He outlines four valuable lessons from the Haystack Revival, emphasizing that God uses:

-- People in the middle of nowhere to plead for souls everywhere.

-- Young people to stir up all ages.

-- Few in number to gather countless for harvest.

-- Invisible and seemingly insignificant events to accomplish His great purposes.

This sermon is an invitation to respond to Jesus, to surrender your life to Him, and to join in fervent prayer for a spiritual awakening in our communities and beyond.

In this sermon, Pastor Allen highlights the unseen spiritual battle raging around us, impacting us spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. He shares the incredible truth that "there is more for you than there is against you," emphasizing God's omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience as our ultimate defense. Learn how God fights for His people, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

Pastor Allen also exposes common lies of the enemy concerning our worth and relationships. Discover how to resist the devil by standing firm in faith, relying on God's strength, and speaking truth over the enemy's accusations. He breaks down the "PRAY" acrostic for effective prayer in spiritual warfare: Praise, Repent, Ask, and Yield.

Finally, Pastor Allen contrasts the enemy's tactics of condemnation and accusation with Jesus's work of conviction and intercession. Understand that Jesus is actively praying for you, advocating on your behalf, and that you are defined by His scars and His love, not your mistakes. This message is a vital encouragement for anyone facing spiritual opposition, seeking to grow in prayer, or needing to be reminded of God's unwavering presence and power.

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Allen reveals that our minds are the front lines of this spiritual battle, where the enemy attempts to plant deception and doubt. He explains how to "take every thought captive to obey Christ" and combat strongholds formed by believing the enemy's lies.

Discover the supernatural and effective weapons God has given us to win these battles:

-- The Word of God: Learn how daily engagement with Scripture can destroy arguments and false doctrines.

-- Prayer and Fasting: Pastor Allen illustrates through the example of Daniel 10 how prayer and humbling ourselves before God can lead to divine intervention against demonic forces.

-- Worship: Understand how gratitude and praise to God can be a powerful weapon against anxiety, fear, and overwhelm, inviting God to fight on your behalf.

This message is for anyone seeking freedom from sin, anxiety, depression, or relational struggles, and who desires to experience the joy and peace that only Christ can give.

Discover what it means to be a man of God in a fallen world. Pastor Allen delves into the five key characteristics of biblical masculinity, drawing inspiration from Paul’s description of Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:25. Learn about the importance of strong male friendships and accountability, the God-given gift of work and purpose, and the spiritual battles men are called to fight. He also highlights the call to live an adventurous life on mission for Christ, and the sacrificial love that motivates true ministry.

This sermon also touches on the reality that “it’s okay to not be okay”, encouraging men to seek help and support when facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or frustration. Pastor Allen emphasizes the courage required to risk it all for Christ, as exemplified by historical figures and modern-day examples like Clayton Kershaw and Charles Pennington.

This message is essential for any man seeking to understand his God-given purpose and for anyone interested in the biblical perspective on masculinity, strength, and service.

Discover the spiritual armor God provides for effective evangelism, including the "gospel shoes" that give you firm footing in spiritual warfare. Pastor Allen exposes common lies the enemy uses to stop your witness - from feeling "not good enough" to fearing rejection or embarrassment.

Learn the simple 4-point gospel outline: God created, man sinned, Jesus died, my response. This message will equip you with practical tools for sharing your testimony and becoming an unstoppable witness in your community.

Key topics covered:

✅ How to overcome fear of evangelism

✅ The importance of prayer in witnessing

✅ Understanding your role as Christ's ambassador

✅ Identifying true vs. false conversion

✅ Breaking through spiritual warfare that hinders outreach

Whether you're a new believer or seasoned Christian, this sermon will reignite your passion for sharing the gospel and give you the confidence to "snatch others from the fire." Stop letting the enemy silence your witness and step into the boldness God has called you to have.

Watch to discover how an unstoppable church creates unstoppable witnesses who advance God's kingdom with power and authority.

What You'll Learn:

-- How to identify and resist Satan's schemes and strategies

-- The biblical truth about spiritual warfare and demonic forces

-- Four practical steps to spiritual victory: ROAD (Resist, Obey, Abide, Draw Near)

-- How to put on the full armor of God for daily protection

-- Why your battle isn't against people but spiritual forces

-- How to replace lies with God's truth and find freedom from guilt and shame

Key Topics Covered:

-- Understanding spiritual warfare and Satan's tactics

-- Breaking free from depression, anxiety, and past regrets

-- Protecting your marriage and family from spiritual attack

-- The power of confession and repentance in Christian living

-- Walking in the righteousness of Christ daily

-- Prayer as a weapon against spiritual opposition

This message is perfect for anyone struggling with temptation, feeling spiritually attacked, or wanting to understand biblical spiritual warfare. Whether you're dealing with pornography addiction, marital problems, financial stress, or overwhelming guilt, Pastor Allen shows how Christ has already won the victory and how you can walk in that triumph.

Scripture Focus: Ephesians 6:10-18, James 4:7-8, John 15:5, 1 John 5:4-5

Perfect for Christians seeking victory over sin, freedom from spiritual oppression, understanding spiritual warfare, or learning to walk in God's power. This biblical teaching will equip you with practical tools for spiritual battle and help you experience the abundant life Christ offers.

Drawing from the powerful example of the prophet Jeremiah in Lamentations 3, Pastor Allen reveals how God's faithfulness remains constant even when our world is turned upside down. This isn't just theory - it's truth tested in the fires of real tragedy, as Emmanuel Baptist Church opened their doors to disaster relief volunteers and ministered to tornado victims firsthand.

If you're struggling with questions about God and suffering, dealing with loss, or wondering how to find hope in hopeless situations, this message will encourage your faith and remind you that God's mercies are new every morning. You'll discover how trials can actually strengthen the church, help the hurting, and point others to Christ.

Whether you're facing a natural disaster, personal crisis, or just trying to understand why bad things happen to good people, Pastor Allen's biblical insights will help you see God's character and faithfulness even in the darkest storms of life.

Topics Covered:

-- Why God allows suffering and tragedy

-- Finding hope in the midst of disaster

-- The faithfulness of God during trials

-- How the church responds to crisis

-- God's purposes in our pain

-- Memorial Day reflections on sacrifice

-- Biblical view of natural disasters

Perfect for: Those questioning God after tragedy, people dealing with loss, anyone seeking hope during difficult times, Christians wanting to understand suffering, church leaders ministering during crisis.

Pastor Scott Cannon from Immanuel Baptist Church explains how God calls us to make decisive

choices that will impact our eternal destiny. There's no middle ground - you're either in or out, hot or

cold, obedient or disobedient.

What you'll discover in this message:

-- Why God says His commands aren't too difficult for you to follow

-- The danger of being spiritually "lukewarm" and why it makes God sick

-- How every choice creates a domino effect with eternal consequences

-- The urgent decision you must make today about following Jesus

-- Why neutrality isn't an option when it comes to faith

Drawing from Deuteronomy 30 and Revelation 3, Pastor Scott challenges believers to examine where

they stand spiritually. Are you at a crossroads wondering what God wants you to do? This sermon will

help you understand that God's will isn't hidden - it's accessible through His Word and Spirit.

Whether you're struggling with salvation, baptism, church membership, or simply living out your faith

boldly, this message provides biblical clarity on making life-changing decisions. Don't miss this call to

choose life and walk in God's blessings.

Perfect for those searching for:

-- How to know God's will for my life

-- What does the Bible say about making difficult decisions

-- Am I saved or going to heaven

-- Why can't I be neutral about faith

-- What does lukewarm Christian mean

-- How to stop being lukewarm in faith

-- Biblical guidance for life choices

-- What are the consequences of disobedience to God

Join those who have found clarity and direction through God's Word. Subscribe for more life-

changing biblical teaching that will help you grow in your faith journey.

Discover the three key principles that can transform your relationship with Christ:

-- Work without God's presence is just a task, but with Him, it's a mission

-- Busyness for God is not the same as intimacy with God

-- You can serve in the house of God and miss the heart of God

Pastor Allen shares practical ways to prioritize Jesus, pause the chaos of life, and pray with intention. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities, or simply wanting to deepen your relationship with Christ, this message offers biblical wisdom on finding peace in His presence.

Are you stuck trying to earn your way to heaven? This message exposes the dangerous belief that we can be "good people" who deserve eternal life. Pastor Allen breaks down why moralism fails and how true salvation transforms everything—from our finances to our priorities.

Discover why Jesus told one wealthy man to "sell everything" while celebrating another's salvation. Learn the three keys to genuine eternal life and why your confidence about heaven reveals much about your understanding of the Gospel.

Whether you rate your confidence about heaven as a 3 or a 10 on the scale, this message will challenge your assumptions and point you toward the true path to salvation that brings immediate joy and eternal security.

Pastor Allen explores how God uses ordinary people with extraordinary boldness to reach the unreachable—from hostile Samaritans to a wealthy Ethiopian official. Discover how the Holy Spirit guides believers to uncomfortable yet divinely appointed encounters that change lives forever.

This message challenges us to ask: When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone for the gospel? Are you living with the same unstoppable boldness that characterized the early church?

Through powerful stories of Thomas Jefferson’s slave Hannah witnessing to her master and Philip’s divine appointment with the Ethiopian eunuch, learn how the gospel empowers believers to overcome prejudice, fear, and complacency.

Whether you’re questioning your purpose, seeking to understand true evangelism, or needing courage to share your faith, this message offers biblical insight on how the Holy Spirit works through willing vessels to accomplish God’s plan in reaching the world.

Discover compelling evidence from the Gospel of Mark showing Jesus as both the promised Messiah and God in human form. Pastor Allen unpacks the historical evidence for the resurrection and explains why hundreds of eyewitnesses were willing to die for this truth.

Whether you’re questioning the reality of the resurrection, searching for hope in difficult times, or seeking to understand why Easter matters, this message offers clear Biblical teaching about the most significant event in human history.

Mack draws from his extensive ministry experience in the Middle East to illustrate how we can remain vigilant against both external threats and internal dangers within the church. Discover how to maintain a clear conscience by faithfully proclaiming the whole counsel of God, protecting the flock from wolves, and identifying devious influences that can draw people away from Christ.

Whether you’re a church leader or a growing believer, this message will challenge you to examine your own spiritual vigilance, embrace a cross-centered life instead of a “protected life,” and stay committed to authentic gospel ministry even when it’s difficult.

Pastor Allen takes us on a journey through the major covenants of the Bible—from Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David—showing how each covenant points to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises. Learn how these ancient agreements between God and His people directly connect to our lives today.

Discover why Jesus is the perfect high priest who entered the Holy of Holies once and for all, tearing the temple curtain from top to bottom to give us direct access to God. Pastor Allen explains how the Holy Spirit is the sign of the New Covenant, writing God’s law on our hearts rather than tablets of stone.

Whether you’re questioning the significance of Easter, struggling with sin, or seeking to understand God’s faithfulness, this message provides biblical insight into how Jesus fulfilled all of God’s covenant promises through His death and resurrection.

Join us at Immanuel Baptist Church as we prepare our hearts for Easter by understanding the covenants that point to Christ.

Discover why the average person lies four times daily and how Satan, "the father of lies," uses deception to pull us away from God's truth. Pastor Allen shares four key reasons we lie and how these deceptions create spiritual bondage in our lives.

Whether you're struggling with honesty in your relationships, at work, or with yourself, this message offers biblical wisdom on:

-Why God values truthfulness so highly

-How lies affect our connection with God and others

-The freedom that comes through confession and truth

-Practical steps to develop integrity in everyday life

This final message in our Proverbs series provides practical wisdom for anyone seeking to build their life on the foundation of truth rather than deception.

In this sermon, Pastor Brent breaks down:

• The destructive power of uncontrolled anger

• How words can heal or hurt • Practical strategies for self-control

• Biblical wisdom on managing emotions

• The importance of speaking with purpose

Key Takeaways:

• Understand why anger happens and how to respond spiritually

• Learn how to use your words to build up, not tear down

• Discover the spiritual fruit of self-control

• Practical tips for communication in family, work, and relationships

• Biblical guidance for emotional healing

Whether you’re dealing with anger issues, want to improve your relationships, or seeking spiritual growth, this message offers hope and practical guidance.

Learn practical strategies for guarding your heart and mind against the subtle traps of sexual temptation. Pastor Allen addresses the importance of accountability, applying God's Word daily, and nurturing intimacy within marriage as God intended.

Whether you're single, dating, or married, this message offers Biblical truth about maintaining sexual purity in a world full of temptation. Pastor Allen reminds us that no matter our past mistakes, God's grace offers redemption and restoration to all who seek Him.

In this sermon, you’ll discover:

• Why children are a blessing and part of God’s plan for humanity • How honoring parents leads to blessing in your children’s lives

• Practical parenting wisdom for different stages of childhood

• The importance of modeling respect for your own parents

• The beautiful parallel between God’s adoption of us and our care for children

Whether you’re married, single, a parent, or considering starting a family, this message offers biblical wisdom on God’s design for raising the next generation. Pastor Allen also discusses the global decline in birth rates and encourages Christians to consider adoption and foster care as ways to fulfill God’s call to care for children.

Learn how to disciple your children effectively by understanding that you are their primary spiritual influence. Pastor Allen unpacks Proverbs 22:6 and explores twelve key principles every parent should teach their children before age 12, including seeking wisdom from God, maintaining integrity, preparing for marriage, sexual purity, choosing godly friends, honoring parents, embracing children as blessings, developing strong work ethics, practicing generosity, using words wisely, cultivating humility, and controlling anger.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or someone who influences young people, you'll find practical biblical guidance for raising children who love the Lord. Pastor Allen reminds us that it's never too late to begin applying these principles, as God is the redeemer of time.

Key topics covered:

-- The true purpose of Proverbs 31's "ideal woman"

-- How wisdom and virtue apply to all believers

-- Understanding biblical ideals vs. perfectionism

-- The connection between Proverbs 31 and the Gospel

-- Practical steps for spiritual growth

Pastor Allen breaks down 5 essential qualities to look for in a relationship partner:

• A genuine relationship with God

• Healthy communication patterns

• Actions that match their words

• How they treat others, especially family

• Respect for boundaries and purity

Whether you’re single, dating, engaged, or married, this message offers practical biblical guidance for building healthy, God-honoring relationships. Discover why marriage isn’t about finding someone to complete you, but about learning to love others sacrificially as Christ loved us.

Pastor Allen unpacks eight key principles from the book of Proverbs, including:

-- Building character before wealth

-- Creating a long-term approach to money

-- Establishing healthy savings habits

-- Planning for future generations

-- Avoiding debt traps

-- Understanding biblical lending

-- Applying sowing and reaping principles

-- Finding contentment in your financial journey

Whether you're dealing with credit card debt, trying to create a budget, or seeking to become a better steward of your resources, this message provides practical steps for financial freedom and peace. Learn how to transform your relationship with money while strengthening your relationship with God.

Pastor Allen breaks down key principles for workplace success, including:

-- Why work is a gift from God, not a curse

-- How serving others leads to career advancement

-- The importance of completing tasks and avoiding procrastination

-- Why continuous learning is essential for growth

-- Maintaining integrity and honesty at work

-- Setting healthy boundaries between work and rest

Perfect for professionals, business owners, stay-at-home parents, and anyone looking to find greater meaning and success in their work. Learn how to view your career through a biblical lens and experience true fulfillment in your daily tasks.

Pastor Allen provides three key principles for sharing your faith:

- You are a tree of life - bringing hope and truth to others

- You are on a rescue mission - understanding the urgency of evangelism

- You are a sign - pointing people to Jesus without pressure

Perfect for anyone wanting to:

- Share their testimony with confidence

- Start spiritual conversations naturally

- Overcome fears about evangelism

- Make an eternal impact in others’ lives

Includes practical steps for sharing your faith this week and a simple framework for telling your story: life before Christ, meeting Christ, and life after Christ.

In this message, discover:

-Why technological advancement hasn't solved humanity's deepest needs

-The difference between reading the Bible and studying it effectively

-How to apply biblical wisdom to daily decisions

-The relationship between fearing God and gaining wisdom

-Practical steps for developing spiritual disciplines

If you're feeling overwhelmed by information but lacking real wisdom, or searching for timeless principles to guide your life, this message offers biblical insights for finding purpose and contentment in today's fast-paced world.

Learn why some choose not to follow Christ, why others oppose Him, and what genuine worship looks like through the historical account of the wise men's journey. Pastor John explores how this ancient story perfectly illustrates God's plan to include all nations in His kingdom, and challenges us to examine our own response to Christ's kingship.

Perfect for anyone:

-- Seeking to understand true Biblical worship

-- Questioning the significance of the wise men's journey

-- Wrestling with obstacles in their faith journey

-- Wanting to deepen their relationship with Christ

-- Exploring the meaning of Christ's kingship

Learn why happiness based on circumstances will always disappoint, and how to experience the deep, lasting joy that comes from placing your hope in eternal promises rather than temporary pleasures. Pastor Allen shares four practical ways to cultivate authentic joy: placing your hope in Christ's return, treasuring eternal things over material goods, giving your life away in service to others, and surrendering your rights instead of fighting for them.

Whether you're facing loneliness, loss, or disappointment this holiday season, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of true Christian joy, this message offers biblical wisdom and hope for your journey.

In this powerful Christmas sermon, Lead Pastor Allen Bonnell explores the deeper meaning of hope during life’s most challenging moments. Drawing from Luke Chapter 2 and the beloved Christmas hymn “O Holy Night,” Pastor Allen unpacks how Christmas offers hope for those struggling with:

• Relationship challenges

• Personal disappointments

• Feeling overwhelmed by life’s difficulties

• Seeking meaning in a broken world

Discover how the Christmas story reveals:

- Your inherent worth in God’s eyes

- Hope’s arrival through Jesus Christ

- Finding peace in difficult circumstances

- Understanding God’s love in seasons of struggle

Whether you’re experiencing pain, loneliness, or searching for purpose, this message offers biblical insight into finding genuine hope. Learn how the true spirit of Christmas transcends holiday cheer and provides real comfort for weary souls.

Perfect for anyone seeking hope, healing, or understanding during the holiday season

Pastor Allen unpacks the biblical story of the shepherds, revealing profound insights about:

- Finding joy even when you're feeling doubtful

- Experiencing God's grace in your lowest moments

- Understanding that Jesus meets you exactly where you are

- Transforming your perspective during difficult times

Perfect for anyone feeling:

- Overwhelmed by life's challenges

- Struggling with faith

- Seeking genuine hope this holiday season

- Wanting to understand God's love more deeply

Key Scriptures Referenced:

Luke 2:8-20

Hebrews 12:2

Galatians 5:22

James 1:2

Whether you’re experiencing doubt, depression, or feeling defeated, this message offers biblical wisdom and compassionate guidance for your spiritual journey.

Remember: God’s grace is greater than your current circumstances.

-Finding guidance in difficult decisions

-Overcoming personal brokenness

-Understanding God's ultimate plan of redemption

-Experiencing peace amid life's challenges

Key biblical insights from Isaiah, Matthew, and Revelation reveal Christ as:

-Emmanuel (God with us)

-Wisdom from on High

-Branch of Jesse

-Key of David

-Bright Morning Star

-King of Nations

Perfect for anyone seeking spiritual encouragement, biblical understanding, or hope during the holiday season.

Understand the true power of the Holy Spirit in your life

Become an effective witness in your community

Join a movement transforming lives across generations

Key Insights:

Shocking statistic: Less than 2% of college campuses are Christian

70% of young people leave the church after high school

How ordinary Christians can do "greater things" through God's power

Pastor Allen shares inspiring real-life stories of recent conversions and explains why every believer matters in God's mission. Whether you're feeling spiritually stuck or passionate about evangelism, this message will challenge and encourage you to step into your God-given purpose.

Sermon Highlights:

✓ The partnership in spreading the Gospel

✓ Accessing supernatural power through the Holy Spirit

✓ Your role in world evangelism

✓ Practical ways to share your faith

Scripture References: Acts 1, John 14:12

In this message, Pastor Allen explains how every believer is called to be “sent” - living as a missionary wherever God has placed them. Whether you’re questioning your purpose, seeking to deepen your relationship with God, or wondering how to make an impact, this message offers biblical guidance for your spiritual journey.

Key points covered:

-How to develop an intimate relationship with God

-Understanding your mission as a believer

-The difference between knowing about God vs. knowing God personally

-Practical steps for living out your faith

-Why unity in the church matters

Learn how God can transform anyone’s life - from the dramatic story of the demon-possessed man to modern-day testimonies. This sermon tackles tough questions like:

-Why does God allow storms in our lives when we’re trying to follow Him?

-How can we find peace during difficult times?

-What’s holding us back from sharing our faith story?

-Are we living missionally or just “playing church”?

Whether you’re facing personal storms, feeling stuck in your comfort zone, or searching for purpose, this message offers biblical wisdom for your journey.

Pastor Bob draws from Scripture to outline three key aspects of a "radical faith": exclusive allegiance to Jesus, denying worldly desires and ambitions, and humbly submitting one's intellect to the teachings of the Bible.

He emphasizes that true discipleship requires a daily commitment to crucifying the flesh and aligning one's thoughts and behaviors with the will of God.

Through compelling stories and biblical insights, Pastor Bob paints a vivid picture of what it looks like to lose one's life in order to find it in Christ. This message is a powerful call to forsake the world's values and instead pursue the narrow path of radical obedience to Jesus.

Whether you're struggling with lingering doubts, worldly ambitions, or the pull of sinful desires, this sermon offers timely wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with the Lord. Discover the joy and freedom that come from denying self and fully surrendering to Christ's Lordship.

Pastor Bob Russell was the Pastor at Southeast Christian Church for 40 years. He retired in 2006 after it had become one of the largest churches in the country.

Drawing from John 1, Pastor Allen explains that Jesus is fully God and fully man, the perfect sacrifice who took the punishment for our sins on the cross. He emphasizes that we are all sinners in need of a Savior, and that only by repenting of our sins and placing our trust in Christ can we be forgiven and receive eternal life.

Throughout the message, Pastor Allen encourages viewers to examine their own hearts and make the decision to follow Jesus, the only way to heaven. He provides a clear and concise explanation of the Gospel, making it accessible for both longtime believers and those exploring Christianity for the first time.

Whether you're wrestling with doubts about your salvation, seeking clarity on the path to heaven, or simply want to deepen your understanding of the core message of Christianity, this sermon by Pastor Allen is a must-watch. Discover the assurance of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ alone.

In this powerful message, Pastor Allen unpacks:

The source of Jesus' divine authority

How to receive eternal life through faith in Christ

The reality of future judgment and resurrection

Practical ways to share your faith and pray for the lost

Are you searching for meaning, struggling with doubt, or wondering about life after death? This sermon offers biblical insights and encouragement for your spiritual journey. Join us in praying for a great awakening and learn how you can make an eternal impact in your community.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your faith and understand the transformative power of Christ's authority in your life!

Key takeaways from this message:

- Why sharing your faith is crucial in today's world

- The power of a simple invitation to "come and see" Jesus

- How to engage skeptics and doubters with grace and understanding

- Practical strategies for bringing friends and family to church

- The transformative effect of personal testimonies in evangelism

Pastor Bonnell unpacks the biblical examples of Andrew, Philip, and others who eagerly shared their encounters with Jesus. Learn how these early disciples' methods can be applied in our modern context to reach those around us.

Whether you're new to faith or a long-time believer, this message will equip and encourage you to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Discover how your story can become a powerful tool in God's mission to reach the world.

Ready to make a difference in someone's life? Watch now and be inspired to point others to the life-changing power of Jesus

CONNECT WITH IMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH:

Website: https://weareibc.com/

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Through the lens of biblical scholarship, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and personal stories, Pastor Allen reveals how we can live out our faith with joy and power today. Learn the importance of repentance, holiness, and the dangers of legalism in the Christian life. Are you ready to take your next step of faith? Join us in this eye-opening message to experience true freedom and victory in Christ.

John 3:22-36

John 3:30

You need an awareness of the identity of Christ. Who is He?

You need an awareness of self. Who am I?

Malachi 4:5 “See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes.

Luke 1:17 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”, 

Jesus said in Matthew 11:11 Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

You need to act. What must I do as a result?

Jesus > I

John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.

His Word > My Experiences.

Sacrificial Living > Playing It Safe

John 12:1-11

"Let your light shine before men that they may SEE your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Availability

Humility 

Sacrifice 

Jesus > I

2. I should serve because: I’ll be blessed.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 

What hinders us from serving:

1. Don’t have the time.

2. Unprepared for the role

3. Unqualified because of your past

4. Your treasure is elsewhere

5. You don't know the needs.

6.

1.  Jesus initiates.

2.  Jesus meets you where you are.

3.  Jesus won’t leave you where you are.

Authentic Community > Independent Living

4.  Jesus alone satisfies your soul's longing.

Exodus 31 Then the Lord said to Moses, 2 “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3 and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— 

12 Then the Lord said to Moses, 13 “Say to the Israelites, ‘You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the Lord, who makes you holy.

Not keeping a Sabbath.

Exodus 20:9-10a “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work.”

Confused rest and refueling

Exodus 31:17 It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.’”

Luke 6:1-11 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. 2 Some of the Pharisees asked, “Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”

3 Jesus answered them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 4 He entered the house of God, and taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” 5 Then Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”

6 On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. 7 The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. 8 But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Get up and stand in front of everyone.” So he got up and stood there.

9 Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?”

10 He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored. 11 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Resting in the wrong person.

Hebrews 4:9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works,[e] just as God did from his.

Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Isaiah 58:3,6-7

3‘Why have we fasted,’ they say,  ‘and you have not seen it?
Why have we humbled ourselves,  and you have not noticed?’

“Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please  and exploit all your workers.

6“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:

to loose the chains of injustice

  and untie the cords of the yoke,

to set the oppressed free

  and break every yoke?

7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry

  and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—

when you see the naked, to clothe them,

  and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

The Gospel gives us a correct worldview for work

“Righteous people disadvantage themselves to advantage others. The wicked are willing to disadvantage the community to advantage themselves.” – Bruce Waltke

The Gospel empowers us in our work.

1 Corinthians 10:31

31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

The Gospel enables us to see work as an extension of our faith.

Colossians 3:23-24

23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord

Genesis 3:16-19

Thorns and Thistles.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

No Satisfaction.

“So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Ecclesiastes 2:17

“So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot.” Ecclesiastes 3:22

The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. 6Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and pursuit of the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:5-6

It’s all about me.

“And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Ecclesiastes 4:4

Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only out of having more of it than the next man. We say that people are proud of being rich, or clever, or good-looking, but they are not. They are proud of being richer, or cleverer, or better-looking than others. – CS Lewis

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14

Work brings order to chaos.

God brought order to chaos. In Genesis, God orders the universe.

Job 38:4 “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?  Tell me, if you understand.
5 Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!  Who stretched a measuring line across it?
6 On what were its footings set,  or who laid its cornerstone—
7 while the morning stars sang together  and all the angels[a] shouted for joy?

8 “Who shut up the sea behind doors  when it burst forth from the womb,
9 when I made the clouds its garment  and wrapped it in thick darkness,
10 when I fixed limits for it  and set its doors and bars in place,
11 when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther;  here is where your proud waves halt’?

The renewal of work-life.

Matthew 19:28 Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Timothy Keller, “No other religion envisions matter and spirit living together in integrity forever. And so birds flying and oceans roaring and people eating, walking, and loving are permanently good things.”

God provides for you through work.

Jack Miller, “Cheer up: you’re a worse sinner than you ever dared imagine, and you’re more loved than you ever dared hope.”

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12

Go do a work that fuels others.

Go do a work that fits you.

S

H

A

P

E

Go do a work that fires you up. 

If your primary motivation is to make money or achieve a status you will never be satisfied. 

1. Work as a picture of the creator. 

2. Work to please the creator

Unproductive – unfruitful or profitless.

2 Thessalonians 3:11-13 11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.

Work is good because it was given before the fall.

Genesis 1:28 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Work is good because God gave work to us.

Genesis 2:15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.

Work is good because it fulfills our purpose.

Eph 2:10 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.”

—Ephesians 2:19-20

2) Live productively by believing the right things.

3) Live productively by doing the right things.

1. Remember who you are.

2. Remember who you used to be.

3. Remember who saved us.

Titus 2:11-15

“Doctrine is the way out of a problem not the way in.” Albert Mohler

1. Grace has appeared.

Grace - unmerited favor of God toward unworthy sinners.

2. Grace is offered to all people.

3. Grace teaches us how to live.

4. Grace will return.

5. Grace liberates and adopts us.

Roman 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the

gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”

3. Grace teaches us how to live.

4. Grace will return.

5. Grace liberates and adopts us. 

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special

possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

1 Peter 2:9 

Titus 2:1-10 ESV

1) We are called to be Different.

     Do they believe you at home?

     Do they believe you at work?

     Do they believe you when you have fun?

2) We are called to invest in others.

   Who could you invest in?                 .

1 Thess 4:3-5a

For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, 5 not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;

One Point: Belief without behavior is nothing to believe in at all!

What is your next step in being different from the rest of the world?           .

Titus 1:10-16

There’s a rebel within all of us

Rebel with the cause, not just because

“So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.’”

Acts 4:18-20

Follow the admirable, obedient One who rebelled for our good

Tim Keller: “The very core of any gospel presentation is to show people that in some way or another they’ve been trying to save themselves, and they are failing.”

Titus 1:5-9

God’s plan for all of us is _godliness_   (Titus 1:1-3)

*Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. – Philippians 2:12-13

God intends for _elders_ to guide us toward godliness   (Titus 1:5)

*And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed. – Acts 14:23

*Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him. And when they came to him, he said to them . . .

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for [shepherd / pastor] the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. – Acts 20:17-18, 28

What an elder must _be_   (Titus 1:6-8)

*Above Reproach – An elder must bear the character needed to be a steward of God’s people.

*Five vices

*Six virtues

What an elder must _do_   (Titus 1:9)

*Hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught

*So that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine, and

*Rebuke those who contradict it

He secured us. 

Slavery to Christ brings freedom from sin and freedom to obey

Slavery to Christ ends prejudices

Slavery to Christ is a table of grace

He picked us.

1 Corinthians 1:26–27

“For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;” 

He keeps His vows to us.

He shows up. 

“I have no question that God chose me. How can I be so sure? Because I believe in Him and Jesus Christ as my Savior. I could not have come to this belief on my own… It can only be explained by the power of the Holy Spirit and God’s grace at work within me.” - Charles Spurgeon

Matthew 25:14-30 ESV

God entrusts you as a steward of His resources.

We will give an account for that stewardship.

You will be rewarded for the risks you take.

1. Go at once.

2. Use what you have.

3. Trust it all to God.

Matthew 25:1-13

1. The inauguration of the church age.

2 Cor 2:6, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

Galatians 5:18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.

Acts 1:3; 8-11 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of

Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence. 2 Corinthians 4:14

2. End of times timeline.

3. Keep Watch.

• Betrothal > Salvation

• Bridegroom > Jesus Returns

• Banquet > Wedding Banquet of the Lamb

1. You can play the part, but you can’t fake the heart.

2. You can’t borrow someone else’s faith.

3. There is a time when it is too late.

Matthew 24:29

Revelation 14:6 Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people.

1. Jesus is coming back.

1 Thes 4:17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

Rapture: “to seize, snatch away,” which is equivalent to the meaning of the Greek word harpazõ in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 (“caught up”).

Pre-Tribulation Rapture: This view maintains the rapture occurs when Jesus comes secretly to gather the church prior a seven-year Great Tribulation that precedes the return of Christ to earth.

Mid-Tribulation Rapture: This is similar to the pre-tribulation view except that it locates the rapture after the first three-and-half years at the point when the Anti-Christ assumes power.

Pre-Wrath Rapture: This position argues that the rapture will occur toward the end of the tribulation before the outpouring of God’s wrath with the bowl judgments (Rev. 16) prior to the return of Christ.

Post-Tribulation: This view sees the rapture as occurring simultaneous to the return of Christ at the end of the Tribulation.

2. We don’t know when the imminent return of Christ will take place.

3. We all need to be ready.

A Parable of Contrast:

Faithful servant vs evil servant

Diligence vs negligence

Rewards vs punishment

Matthew 24:1-25

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Epoch 1 – Birth Pains v. 4-8 

1 Thes 5:3  for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

Epoch 2 – Intensification v. 9-14

Epoch 3 - Tribulation v. 15-28

Daniel 7:13-14: “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence.He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.

2 Corinthians 8-9 (NIV)

1. God’s grace promotes generosity.

2. Your life is your gift to God.

3. Giving is a test. 

4. Give cheerfully.

5. God’s abundant grace enables abundant giving, which results in abundant work. 

6. Generosity elicits thanksgiving to God.

7. Our gift doesn’t compare to God’s gift. 

Go

Genesis 1:28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Build

Exodus 35:4-5; 10, 21-22, 25, 36:6-7

Glorify

Romans 10:14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

2 Chronicles 7:1 When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. 

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

The resurrection demonstrates that you are loved. 

The resurrection displays the power of God. 

The resurrection reveals there is life after death.

We all are traitors.

We are all offered forgiveness.

Repentance is required.

2. Saving faith always results in serving faith.

3. It’s the fruit not the roots.

Dr. Rebekah Naylor PICS

Judgement is real.

Judgement is final.

Judgement can be a reward.

Matthew 5

Love God.

Love your neighbor as yourself.

John 3:19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

1. Be the light,

Philippians 2:15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you in the world,

Salt

2. Shine the light

3. Receive the light

Matthew 22:34-40

Love begins with God.

1 John 4 7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Love those outside your circle.

1 John 4:20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.

Treat others as you would want to be treated.

Matthew 7:12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Galatians 5:14 The entire law is fulfilled in a single decree: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 15But if you keep on biting and devouring one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another. 16So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

Matthew 21:1-11

Jesus is the eternal King.

Jesus is the return of the Glory of God.

Genesis 49:9-11 You are a lion’s cub, Judah;  you return from the prey, my son.
Like a lion he crouches and lies down,  like a lioness—who dares to rouse him?
10 The scepter will not depart from Judah,  nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet,[a]
until he to whom it belongs[b] shall come  and the obedience of the nations shall be his.
11 He will tether his donkey to a vine,  his colt to the choicest branch;
he will wash his garments in wine,  his robes in the blood of grapes.

God loves to employ people in the work of the kingdom.

Don’t miss the coming of God to you. 

Rev 7:9-10 9 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. 10 And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

2) We need to feel as Jesus felt.

3) We need to do as Jesus did.

If Jesus is the LORD of the harvest, what do we have to lose?

Where is God sending you?              .

What Dream Team do you need to join?              .

2. Use what you have. 

“It’s not how many titles you have, but how many toilets you clean.”

“Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28

3. Do something.

1. The Father rewards His faithful followers.

Matthew 5:4 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

John Stott, “Jesus is not talking about a feeling. What God thinks of you and what on that account they are, blessed.”

2. Start with me, and end with Jesus.

Dallas Willard, “The main thing God gets out of your life is who you become, not your achievement.”

3. Holiness is progress not perfection.

4. It is the application of our faith that brings power.

Matthew 6:12-13

To sin is human, to forgive is divine.

Matthew 5:20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.

5:21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister[b][c] will be subject to judgment. 

5:27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’[a] 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.

5:31 “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’[a] 32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

David Tripp says, “And so, you'll never solve this problem by behavioral reformation because I could attempt to change some of my behavior, but I can't change the condition of my heart. So right away, I know that I need rescue, I need a Savior. The thing that I need to be rescued from most in life is me because I'm my greatest problem.”

2. Forgiven people, forgive others

13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13

3. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Matthew 6:9-13

“Our Father has committed to care for us. We aren’t wrestling crumbs out of a reluctant hand but, rather, confessing the bounty of a generous hand. The essence of the prayer is really an affirmation of the Father’s care. Because our provision is His priority.” - Max Lucado

1. Jesus invites us to ask for help.

Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

2. Whatever you give me is ours, not mine.

3. God is never tired of our request.

Luke 18:7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?

4. The prayer is a reminder to live in today, and not distracted about tomorrow.

Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

5. It is a reminder to be content.

1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

Proverbs 30:7 “Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: 8 Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. 9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

6. We trust in the provider not in the provision

Matthew 6:31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.

Matthew 6:5-15 (NIV)

1. Our Father adopts us into his forever family.

Ephesians 1:5

2. Our Father disciplines us for our good.

Hebrews 12:7-11

3. Our Father gives good gifts.

Matthew 7:9-11

If you’re wondering, ”How should I pray?” the P.R.A.Y. acronym lays it out for you.

Praise – Spend time praising God for who He is and thank him for all that he's done for you.

Repent – Confess and repent of sin. God already knows about it, but He tells us to confess it.

Ask – Ask God to move in your life and the lives of others. This can be in big ways and small ways.

Yield – Take some time to stop and listen to God and what He's calling you to do. Be obedient to whatever that is.

Pastor Brett guides you through the P.R.A.Y. method and invites you to spend time praying through each letter of the acronym as you go.

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1. There is always a time of preparation before the plan.

2. The assuredness of temptation.

1 John 2:16 (ESV) For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world

Hebrews 4:15 (ESV) For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.

3. Wield the word of God as a sword.

Ephesians 6:16 (ESV) In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 

4. Getting on your knees is the only way to get on your feet.

1 Peter 5:5 (ESV) Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

James 1:17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Matthew 3:1-17

Repentance: think different →  feel different → do different

9 As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. 10 For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death. (2 Corinthians 7:9-10)

Repentance first. Baptism second. Why? Because it’s right.

Only Christ can right our wrongs.

The Spirit, like wind, removes the chaff from your life.

The Spirit, like water, nourishes and brings fruit.

The Spirit, like a dove, communicates peace.

1. Jesus is our deliverer.

2. The pain in the world will one day be comforted.

3. Jesus was cursed for us.

Matthew 2:1-12

Numbers 24:17 “I see him, but not now;

    I behold him, but not near.

A star will come out of Jacob;

    a scepter will rise out of Israel.

Isaiah 60:1-6 ESV

Arise, shine, for your light has come,

    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.

2 For behold, darkness shall cover the earth,

    and thick darkness the peoples;

but the Lord will arise upon you,

    and his glory will be seen upon you.

3 And nations shall come to your light,

    and kings to the brightness of your rising.

4 Lift up your eyes all around, and see;

    they all gather together, they come to you;

your sons shall come from afar,

    and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.

5 Then you shall see and be radiant;

    your heart shall thrill and exult,

because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you,

    the wealth of the nations shall come to you.

6 A multitude of camels shall cover you,

    the young camels of Midian and Ephah;

    all those from Sheba shall come.

They shall bring gold and frankincense,

    and shall bring good news, the praises of the Lord.

Micah 5:2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,

    though you are small among the clans of Judah,

out of you will come for me

    one who will be ruler over Israel,

whose origins are from of old,

    from ancient times.”

Seek Jesus.

Ask others for direction.

Worship Jesus.

Bring your best gift to Jesus.

Tell others about Jesus. 

Matthew 1:18-25

1. The character of Joseph.

2. The charge to Joseph.

Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

3. The courage of Joseph.

Matthew 1:1-11, 16-17

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born,

    to us a son is given,

    and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

God uses imperfect people for his perfect purposes.

The legacy you leave is more important than the heritage you received. 

The genealogy of Jesus points to the fact that we all need a savior.

In Christ you are given a new start and a new purpose.

Matthew 25:14-30 (ESV)

Greed begins where contentment ends. Debt accrues where Greed prevails.

James 4:1-4 What causes and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your that battle within you? 2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with , that you may spend what you get on your. 4 You , don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”

Proverbs 21:26 All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing.

Matthew 25:14-30ESV

14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants[a] and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents,[b] to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with

them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.[c] You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

6:33 But his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be as well.

Deuteronomy 8:18 “But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.

God gives you ability to produce wealth to be generous.

Generosity reflects the heart of God.

Malachi 3:6 “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. 7 Ever since the time of your ancestors you have from my decrees and have not kept them., and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ 8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.

“But you ask, ‘ are we robbing you?’ “In . 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 the into the storehouse, that there may be food in . in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and 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.

We were 11th in the state in giving to missions.

Cooperative Program $135,000

You were 3rd in the state in baptisms.

Since 2008 we have seen over 1,100 people baptized.

65 in ministry or preparing for ministry.

Matthew 6:25-34

Greed begins when contentment ends.

Proverbs 22:7 “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

1. Seek God.

Psalm 24:1 Of David. A psalm. The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it”

2. First His Kingdom.

Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

3. Save with the future in mind.

Proverbs 21:20NLT The wise have wealth and luxury,

but fools spend whatever they get.

Pr 30:25 Ants are creatures of little strength,

    yet they store up their food in the summer;

Proverbs 6:9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard?

    When will you get up from your sleep?

10 A little sleep, a little slumber,

    a little folding of the hands to rest—

11 and poverty will come on you like a thief

    and scarcity like an armed man.

4. Spend with a plan

Proverbs 21:5The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.

Colossians 2: 13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you[a] alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.

1. Greed is a heart issue.

“Greed is a sin against God, just as all mortal sins, in as much as man condemns things eternal for the sake of temporal things.” Thomas Aquinas

Proverbs 23:4-5 Do not wear yourself out to get rich;

    do not trust your own cleverness.

5 Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone,

    for they will surely sprout wings

    and fly off to the sky like an eagle.

2. How Greed controls you.

Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

3. Freedom from Greed.

AW Tozer in the Pursuit of God, “There is within the human heart a tough fibrous root of fallen life whose nature is to possess, always to possess. It covets `things' with a deep and fierce passion. The pronouns `my' and `mine' look innocent enough in print, but their constant and universal use is significant. They express the real nature of the old Adamic man better than a thousand volumes of theology could do. They are verbal symptoms of our deep disease. The roots of our hearts have grown down into things, and we dare not pull up one rootlet lest we die. Things have become necessary to us, a development never originally intended. God's gifts now take the place of God, and the whole course of nature is upset by the monstrous substitution.”

November 5, 2023

Philippians 4:1-9

• There are different levels of anxiety.

• Some temperaments are more prone to worry than others.

• There is a difference between anxiety & concern.

• We worry about different things but most of us struggle in one area or another.

The Command: “Do not be Anxious.”

• Worry is a Sin because it is Harmful to us.

• Worry is a sin because it’s a poor witness to others. • Worry is a sin because it insults God.

The Cure: “For anxiety requires we Transform our Thinking.”

To Transform your Thinking from Anxiety to Peace:

1) Memorize Scripture.

“I have hidden your Word in my Heart that I might not sin against God.”

—Psalm 119:11

2) Face the Worst... and Trust God will Sustain You.

“Even if He slay me, I will Trust Him.”

“The Lord is able to deliver us from the fire, but even if He doesn’t, we will Trust Him.”

—Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego

—Job

“Even if I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil.”

—David

“We will not fear even if the mountains fall and crash into the sea. God is our Refuge.”

—David

“In the World you’re going to have trouble, but be of Good Cheer, I have overcome the World.”

—Jesus

Faith is not Confidence God will do what I want. Faith is Confidence God will do what is best for us in the end.

• Embrace the Moment. • Focus on Eternity 

Be aware when there is dissonance. 

Identify the truth in the bible.

3. Anchor your thoughts and actions to the truth found in the bible.

Why am I here? ------ purpose 

Why is there so much pain in the world? ------ problem

Am I loved? ------ plan

Psalm 68:5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. 6 God sets the lonely in families, 

2 Corinthians 5:11-21

1. A life that counts will cost you. 

2. We are called to the mission of God.

3. We live a missionary mindset.

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”  John 20:21

The Cost (Esther 4:8-11)

The Plan (Esther 4:12-14)

IV. The Response (Esther 4:15-17)

Ephesians 2:1-10

You have a purpose beyond yourself.

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. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Genesis 2:15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.

You are prepared for that purpose.

Ephesians 4 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Spiritual contributor > Spiritual consumer

A consumer is focused on self.

Ephesians 2

2 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 

“Choose this day who you will serve but as for me and my household we will serve the LORD.”

A contributor is motivated by gratitude.

4 BUT because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Acts 2:4242 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Why:

We come to know God and bring Him glory.

174 I long for your salvation, Lord,

    and your law gives me delight.

175 Let me live that I may praise you,

    and may your laws sustain me. Psalm 119

We come to know ourselves and grow in righteousness.

11 I have hidden your word in my heart

    that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119

We learn direction in life.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

We learn how to have healthy relationships with others.

Proverbs 12:16 Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.

Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 17:9 Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.

How?

Returning college student, I read a book of the bible this summer and it changed me, it made me a better man. 

Hear

 romans 10:17 17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.

Read 

rev 1:3 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Study 

acts 17:11 11 Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.

Memorize 

ps 119:9, 1111 I have hidden your word in my heart

    that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119

Apply 

james 1:22 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

Show me your friends and I will show you your future.

Proverbs 13:20 Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.

Acts 9:26-28

26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 He talked and debated with the Hellenistic Jews,[a] but they tried to kill him. 30 When the believers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

1. Life is better together.

Romans 15:7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

2am Friends

Acts 11 25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.

2. Learns from one another. 

3. Gives generously.

“Therefore I urge you to imitate me. That is why I have sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which is exactly what I teach everywhere in every church.” 1 Corinthians 4:16-17

Refrigerator Rights

Acts 13 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

4. Lives on mission.

 “If you want to run fast, run alone. If you want to run far, run together.” -unknown

“If we’re going to make disciples and move out in mission, we need to go from managing boundaries to integrating family and mission into one life, a cohesive framework and fabric that empowers a culture of discipleship and mission, not just occasional events and periodic programs.” 

- Mike & Sally Breen, Family On Mission

2 Timothy 4:9-22

 “We are born looking for someone looking for us.” Curt Thompson

Main idea: Friendship is forged by grace and love as we do life together.

(Read through the passage commenting as we walk through it)

9 Do your best to come to me quickly, 10 for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. 12 I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.

14 Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. 15 You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.

16 At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

19 Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus. 20 Erastus stayed in Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Miletus. 21 Do your best to get here before winter. Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia and all the brothers and sisters.

“One sometimes meets super-spiritual people who claim that they never felt lonely and have no need for friends, for the companionship of Chirst satisfies all their needs. But human friendship is the loving provision of God for mankind.” – John Stott

7 applications from Paul to forge those friendships with grace and love.

Have an inner circle.

Be transparent.

Reconcile quickly.

Don’t blame others.

Avoid dangerous people.

Stay connected. 

Be active in the church. 

“When our spirit is lonely, we need friends. When our body is cold, we need clothing. When our mind is bored, we need books. To admit this is not unspiritual; it is human.” –John Stott

2 Timothy 4:6-8

1. Present situation

Phillippians 1:3 “I have the desire to depart and be with Christ.”

Romans 8:18 “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Charles Spurgeon, “To come to thee is to come home from exile, to come to land out of the raging storm, to come to rest after long labor, to come to the goal of my desires and the summit of my wishes.”

2. Past victories

There is a battle to fight.

There is a purpose to live.

Hebrews 12:1b “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us”

There is a treasure to guard.

“Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” 2 Timothy 1:14

3. Future glory

2 Timothy 1:12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.

Are you focused on the Creator or his creation?

What does your faith cause you to do?

We should all look for ways to

Inspire

Equip

Pray

Give

Go

Send

2 Timothy 4:1-5

Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18.

2 Timothy 4:1 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 2 Preach the word

Proclaim the truth of Scripture as one who will be held accountable. 

1 Timothy 4:13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.

“be prepared in season and out of season”

2. Be ready to preach the truth of Scripture.

“Correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 

3. Preach the Scriptures with a broken heart.

3 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

4. We preach the Gospel in a hostile environment.

 “Preach the gospel, die, and be forgotten.” -- Zinzendorf 

2 Timothy 3:14-17

 “Christianity is the religion of a Book.” – Arthur Pink

“At any price give me the book of God. Let me be a man of one book.” – John Wesley

The nature of Scripture is divine.

“I have a fundamental belief in the Bible as the Word of God, written by those who were inspired. I study the Bible daily.” Isaac Newton

The unique revelation of Jesus.

Claims it is from God.

Fulfillment of prophecy.

The power of the message.

The unity of the message.

Trans-cultural appeal of the message.

The honesty of the bible. 

VIII.Superiority to other literature.

Pragmatic test of experience.

The translation process.

The purpose of Scripture revelation.

Believe

Act

“The bible will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from the bible.” Dwight L. Moody

The effect of Scripture is powerful.

Saves you

Equips you

“Scripture is the chief means which God employs to bring ‘the man of God’ to maturity.” John Stott

2 Timothy 3:1-9

The folly of lovers of self.

The fakeness of lovers of self.

The failure of lovers of self.

2 Timothy 2:22-26

1. Cleanliness is necessary for usefulness.

20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. 21 Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

2. The privilege of useless is tied to the pursuit of righteousness.

22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 

3. Righteousness leads to effective evangelism.

23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

2 Timothy 2:14-19

Stay Hungry

• TAWG

• PRAY

• COMMUNITY

John 17:17

Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.

It's ok to have questions, it's not ok to push your speculations.

A good worker:

• Stays hungry

• Stays focused

• Stays sharp

What is your next step with Jesus?                  .

2 Timothy 1:13-2:2 ESV

Live it!

Guard it!

William Booth “The chief danger that confronts the coming century will be religion without the Holy Ghost, Christianity without Christ, forgiveness without repentance, salvation without regeneration, politics without God, heaven without hell.”

Pass it!

2 Timothy 1:1-12

Conviction in our calling.

Working together.

Empowerment of the Spirit.

Lamentations 3

Lamentations 3

1 I am the man who has seen affliction by the rod of the Lord’s wrath.

2 He has driven me away and made me walk in darkness rather than light;

3 indeed, he has turned his hand against me again and again, all day long.

4 He has made my skin and my flesh grow old and has broken my bones.

5 He has besieged me and surrounded me with bitterness and hardship.

6 He has made me dwell in darkness like those long dead.

7 He has walled me in so I cannot escape; he has weighed me down with chains.

8 Even when I call out or cry for help, he shuts out my prayer.

9 He has barred my way with blocks of stone; he has made my paths crooked.

10 Like a bear lying in wait, like a lion in hiding,

11 he dragged me from the path and mangled me and left me without help.

12 He drew his bow and made me the target for his arrows.

13 He pierced my heart with arrows from his quiver.

14 I became the laughingstock of all my people; they mock me in song all day long.

15 He has filled me with bitter herbs and given me gall to drink.

16 He has broken my teeth with gravel; he has trampled me in the dust.

17 I have been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is.

18 So I say, “My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the Lord.”

19 I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.

20 I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.

 21 Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope:

22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”

25 The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him;
26 it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

1. I WILL CALL TO MIND

I HAVE HOPE

GODS LOVE ME 

GOD IS FAITHFUL

2. I WILL WAIT FOR HIM

FOR HE IS GOOD

HE WILL DELIVER ME

Numbers 11:14-15 I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me. If this is how you are going to treat me, please go ahead and kill me

1 Kings 9:3-4 Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.”

Jonah 4:3 Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.” But the Lord replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?”

2 Cor. 1:8 

We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.

Galatians 6:1-10 (ESV)

Share the load.

Matthew 22: 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”

Be willing to get dirty

There is a return on investment.

Romans 15:14-15

14 And concerning you, my brothers and sisters, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another. Romans 15:14 NASB

“We proclaim Him, admonishing every person and teaching every person with all wisdom, so that we may present every person complete in Christ.” Colossians 1:28 NASB

14 And concerning you, my brothers and sisters, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish ONE ANOTHER. 15 But I have written very boldly to you on some points so as to remind you again, because of the grace that was given to me from God.” Romans 15:14-15 NASB

1. Have the right motive.

Galatians 6:1 NIV Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.

“Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. Acts 20:31 ESV

2. Be Word saturated.

16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV

16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16 NASB

3. Be the right person. 

14 I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. 15 For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” 1 Corinthians 4:14-15 ESV

Hebrews 10:19-25

Draw near to God.

Persevere in the faith. 

Grow by being accountable. 

Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. Proverbs 27:6

“For God so gave “

life.” John 3:16

loved

the world, that he

in him should not perish but have eternal

his only Son, that whoever

believes

Now before the Feast of the Passover, when

Jesus knew

that his hour had

come to depart out of this world to the Father, having

loved

his own who

were in the world, he

loved

them to the end.” John 13:1

“You knew the full extent of their weakness, so you showed them the full

extent of your love. Washing their feet was a prelude to washing their hearts.

Water sufficed for the first, your lifeblood was required for the second.”

--Scotty Smith

“A . As

“

life

“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John 19:30

ram and

has

new command

I give you:

Love one another

I have loved you, so you

must love one another. By this everyone will

know

that you are my

disciples,

if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

Greater love

no one than this: to

lay down

one’s

for one’s friends.” John 15:12-13

“And the LORD

God made

for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and

clothed

them.” Genesis 3:21

“And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a

, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram

offered it

up as a burnt offering

instead of his son.”

Genesis 21:13

“God made Him (Christ), who knew no sin, to be sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” 2 Corinthians 5:21

(the John pass will be read here)

“

But that you may know that the Son of Man has

authority

rise

on earth to

forgive sins

”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you,

, pick up your

bed, and go home.” Mark 2:10-11

you also

will live” John 14:19

“Because I live, 

1. The Motives of the Crowd

2. Our King is Humble

3. To ride with the King, you must die like the King

Matthew 16:13-20

Our faith is based on the divine claims of Christ.

36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” 37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2

Our church is built by Jesus.

1 Peter 2 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house[a] to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ

 6 For in Scripture it says:

“See, I lay a stone in Zion,

    a chosen and precious cornerstone,

and the one who trusts in him

    will never be put to shame.”[b]

Our enemy is already defeated by Jesus. 

Romans 8 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

John 4:1-42

1. The Gospel is the good news of redemption.

God created 

Man sins

Jesus died

We Respond

“When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. John 18:6

2. The power of the Gospel changes your life.

3. A life changed shares the Gospel with others.

Barriers:

What are people going to think of me.

They know my past.

What if I can’t answer all their question’s.

I’m an introvert, not my giftedness.

Rebeca Pippert “Being an extrovert isn't essential to evangelism - obedience and love are.

Charles spurgeon Oh, my brothers and sisters in Christ, if sinners will be damned, at least let them leap to hell over our bodies; and if they will perish, let them perish with our arms about their knees, imploring them to stay, and not madly to destroy themselves. If hell must be filled, at least let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go there unwarned and unprayed for.

The gospel is only good news if it gets there in time.

- Carl Henry

1. The Dangers of Money 

1 Timothy 6:9-10 Those who WANT to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the LOVER OF MONEY is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, EAGER for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs

The trap of debt.

b. The trap of self-sufficiency.

Deuteronomy 8: 17 You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” 18 But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.

c. The trap of the enemy.

2. The Purpose of Money 

a. Conform His power.

10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and 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.” Malachi 3:10

“There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: ‘Mine!” - Abraham Kuyper

b. Learn contentment.

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6:

c. Grow community.

ROOTED – Giving is not God’s way of raising money. It’s His way of raising people with surrendered hearts. He wants people to learn to trust and love Him. 

3. The Plan for Money

9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,  with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,  and your vats will brim over with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10

6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 

JOY (Jesus, Others, You)

Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, BUT through love serve one another.

“Christian maturity begins to grow when you can sense your concern for others outweighing your concern for yourself.” - Rooted

God uses people. 

1 peter 4:10 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

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.”

God uses unlikely people 

1 Samuel 16 6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here before the Lord.”

7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”

“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”

God uses who you are

(SHAPE)

Spiritual Gifts 

Heart 

Abilities 

Personality 

Experiences

1 Timothy 1:12 “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service.

Proverbs 3:28 Do not say to your neighbor,  “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—  when you already have it with you.

58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor 15:58

Colossians 3:23-24 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Acts 6:1-7

1. Saved to Serve 

2. The Spirit is our Source

Acts 6:5a, ESV: And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, 

Full – completely occupied, abounding in, complete

Faith – trust, belief, confidence fidelity

Holy Spirit – breath, wind

“He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.” Acts 11:24

3. Saved to Share

“So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” Acts 6:7 NIV

8 Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. 

9 Opposition arose

On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Acts 8:1b

4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said.

Acts 8:4-6

“Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” Mark 8:34-35

“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John 17:3

1. The Supremacy of Christ “God is Spirit” John 4:24

17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:17

“Jesus replied, “Philip, I have been with you all this time, and still you do not know Me? Anyone who has seen Me has

seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?” John 14:9

John 1: 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

John 8:58 58 “Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!”

Rev 1:18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

2. The Sufficiency of Christ

14 The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Cor 2:14

Romans 8 9 You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.

Pslam 62:11 Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God,

Directed – The Holy Spirit will lead you in what to say, where to go, and what to do.

Galatians15: 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.

11 And when they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” Luke 12

Empowered – The Holy Spirit will empower you to complete the tasks that He calls you to.

Deuteronomy 1:6 “The Lord our God said to us in Horeb, ‘You have stayed long enough at this mountain.

Henry Blackaby, “Our world is not seeing God, because we are not attempting anything that only God can do.”

1. Longing to be filled

Blessed are those who hunger. and thirst after righteousness, for

they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6

37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and

drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” 39 Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to

receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” John 7

2. Confess quickly

13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.” Colossians 2

3. Surrender totally

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12

4. Obedience to God leads to the empowerment of God. 5. Ask

“You do not have, because you do not ask.” James 4:2c

1 Corinthians 12:4-19

4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves[a] or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be?

Given by the Spirit

6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 

8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom….

11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

We all have them

7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 

1 Peter 4:10 “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.”

We need all of them

14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.

They may not be permanent

“Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.” 1 Corinthians 13:8

John 20:30-31 30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

1 Cor 14:22 Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers.

Purpose of the gifts are for the good of the church

7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 

Eph 4:12 “To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,

1 cor 14:4 The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church.

1. Discover your gifts. 

2. Dedicate your gifts to God. 

3. Develop your gifts.

4. Deploy your spiritual gifts.

When believers are filled with the Spirit, they don’t get more of the Spirit, the Spirit gets more of them.

with

Empowers us to complete the mission.

Acts 4:8 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and

elders of the people! Enables us to live in victory.

• Ask for the Holy

Luke 11:13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

“And s

do not get drunk with wine, for that is t

ube filled

debauchery, but

the Spirit.” Eph 5:18

2 For the law of the Spirit of life has

set you free

in Christ Jesus from the law

of sin and death. Romans 8:2

Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

• Be thankful 1 Thes 5:18

• Yield to be filled

Eph 4:30, 1 thes 5:19, acts 7:51 

1 Corinthians 12:13

“For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:13

PIC OF MAN BEING BAPTIZED

John 14: 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you

another Helper, to be with you forever,

1 John 4:4 “Little children, you are from God and have overcome

them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in

other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2:4

18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” Acts 8

44 While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Acts 10

15 As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave

2

to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God's way?” Acts 11

3 And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John's baptism.” 4 And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” 5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 19

6 And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. Acts 19

Romans 8:9 You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.”

Ephesians 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism

John 10:27-30

27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”

1) Jesus is the True Shepherd.

2) The Sheep know the Voice of their Shepherd.

3) The Holy Spirit Seals us for the Day of Redemption.

Ephesians 1:13

“In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,”

Ephesians 4:30

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”