Learning to Love: Part 2
Feed My Sheep
John 21:15-19
I. Showing Our Love For God
a. Jesus ties our love for God to our love for others.
i. Matthew 22- The two (three) greatest commandments are to Love God and Love others as ourselves.
ii. 1 John 3:10- 10This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother.
b. We are able to properly love God/others when we are following His commandments.
i. 1 John 4:21- And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
ii. 1 John 5:2-4- 2This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. 3This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4for everyone born of God overcomes the world.
iii. We are not able to love God and love others without His Holy Spirit
1. 2 Timothy 1:7- 7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
II. How do we feed His Sheep: What does the Lord command?
a. Micah 6:8- 8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
b. TO ACT JUSTLY
i. Be faithful and upright in all things- Do what is right!
1. Luke 16:10-11- 10"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. 11So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?
ii. Be an Ambassador of Reconciliation
1. 2 Corinthians 5- 20We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21God made him who had no sin to be sin[a] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
2. We are a new creation in Christ and he has destroyed what divides us.
iii. Be an Advocate for Justice!
1. The Good Samaritan- Start taking care of the street!
2. 1 Thessalonians 5- 14And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
3. Matthew 10- 18On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. 19But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
c. LOVE MERCY- My blow-up
i. SHOW COMPASSION- Colossians 3:13- 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
ii. 1 Thess 5- 15Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
d. WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD
i. Walk with Him by Seeking His Will
1. 2 Chronicles 7:14- 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
ii. Let Him Lead- Go to the Word
1. Psalm 119:105- Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
iii. Christ Exalted!
1. Phil. 1:12-26
III. Who Am I?
a. Noah was a drunk Abraham was too old Isaac was a daydreamer Jacob was a liar Leah was ugly Joseph was abused Moses has a stuttering problem Samson has long hair and was a womanizer Rahab was a prostitute Jeremiah and Timothy were too young David has an affair and was a murderer Isaiah preached naked Jonah ran from God Peter denied Christ The Disciples fell asleep while praying Zaccheus was too small Paul was too religious Lazarus was dead!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Monday, July 21, 2008
THE LOVE OF GOD
THE LOVE OF GOD: Part 1
Learning to Love Series
1 John 4:7-19
I. Love is the Defining Attribute of God
a. God is Love
i. 1 John 4:8- Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
b. Love is not something that God feels, it is his very being. Therefore, God’s actions are always loving.
i. 9This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son[b] into the world that we might live through him. 10This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for[c] our sins.
ii. Not only did he die for us—he served us- Christ washing the feet of the disciples
II. Our ability to love comes from God
a. We were created in His image and God is love.
i. Genesis 1:27- So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
ii. The Imago Dei has become distorted because of SIN. Therefore, our view of love has become distorted as well since God cannot dwell in Sin- Inordinate love
b. Our source for and to love is in God.- 1 John 4:7- Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
i. 19We love because he first loved us.
c. We need to have a model for love- JESUS & The Cross
i. Be Imitators of God- Ephesians 5:1- 1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved
ii. 12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
iii. 34"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
1. John 15 - 13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. How?
a. Galatians 6:2- 2Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
b. Hebrews 10:24- 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
c. 1 John 5:2- 2This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.
2. Romans 5- 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
III. Reduced to Love
a. Love comes from the spirit of God within us that is only made possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
b. 13We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. 16And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.
i. Know- It consumes our thoughts & Rely- It consumes our actions
c. The more we experience the love of God- the more we will be changed
i. 1 Corinthians 13- 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
ii. John 3:30- He must increase, so I must decrease.
Learning to Love Series
1 John 4:7-19
I. Love is the Defining Attribute of God
a. God is Love
i. 1 John 4:8- Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
b. Love is not something that God feels, it is his very being. Therefore, God’s actions are always loving.
i. 9This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son[b] into the world that we might live through him. 10This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for[c] our sins.
ii. Not only did he die for us—he served us- Christ washing the feet of the disciples
II. Our ability to love comes from God
a. We were created in His image and God is love.
i. Genesis 1:27- So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
ii. The Imago Dei has become distorted because of SIN. Therefore, our view of love has become distorted as well since God cannot dwell in Sin- Inordinate love
b. Our source for and to love is in God.- 1 John 4:7- Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
i. 19We love because he first loved us.
c. We need to have a model for love- JESUS & The Cross
i. Be Imitators of God- Ephesians 5:1- 1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved
ii. 12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
iii. 34"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
1. John 15 - 13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. How?
a. Galatians 6:2- 2Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
b. Hebrews 10:24- 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
c. 1 John 5:2- 2This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.
2. Romans 5- 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
III. Reduced to Love
a. Love comes from the spirit of God within us that is only made possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
b. 13We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. 16And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.
i. Know- It consumes our thoughts & Rely- It consumes our actions
c. The more we experience the love of God- the more we will be changed
i. 1 Corinthians 13- 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
ii. John 3:30- He must increase, so I must decrease.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Bethany Newsletter- July Edition
July, 2008
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
“So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
During the month of July we celebrate Independence Day which commemorates the signing of the declaration of independence formally establishing the United States of America as sovereign nation and separating our allegiance to Great Britain. While the fourth of July celebrates the signing of the declaration of independence—the victory that secured our freedom did not come until much later and after many lost their lives.
We know that our freedom was not and is not free, but was the result of the resolve and sacrifice of those who came before us. As Christians, we need to remember that the freedom that we have in Christ was not free because it costs Him His very life as Jesus took on the full weight of our sin and shame upon the old rugged cross of Calvary.
Luke 12:48 reminds us that to whom much is given, much is expected. Christ gave his all for us, so that we will give our all to Him. We give our all to Him, by declaring our dependence on Him. We do this because He first loved us (1 John 4:19) and so that we can truly live life at its best (Romans 6). Daily we need to declare to God that we can’t make it through the day without Him, acknowledge Him in all situations (Proverbs 3:6), and seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). The result will be life to the full (John 10:10)!
I want to encourage you to enjoy your life and the freedom found in Christ. This quote is posted in my office: "Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, totally worn out and proclaiming, 'WOW, WHAT A RIDE!!!'" Let us continue to encourage one another to live life to its fullest and using the freedom that we have in Christ to choose to do good for God’s glory and honor!
In Christ,
Pastor Robin Weinstein
THE GRUMBLE GREMLINS
“The Grumble Gremlins”
James 3:1-12
I. The Devastating Power of Words
a. In 1984, the movie “Gremlins” came out in which a boy receives a pet named Gizmo, a cute, fuzzy, and lovable pet called a Mogwai. There is a huge responsibility in looking after Gizmo as there are certain rules which must be followed. The Mogwai must be kept away from bright light, never made wet and never, ever be fed after midnight. When an accident occurs involving Gizmo and water, the next evolution stage of the Mogwai appears, and it isn't nice at all.
i. When you get him wet- it caused him to multiply into a number of mischievous little brothers. Soon enough, the new Mogwai get hold of some food after midnight and this causes them to change from cute fur-balls into nasty, scaly monsters dubbed 'Gremlins.'
ii. Gremlins destroy and cause havoc.
b. Each of us have the ability to go from a nice and peaceful person- to a scaly monster that causes havoc through our WORDS.
i. We have two natures at work with us- Romans 7:14-25- “What a wretched man I am!”- Have you ever regretted what you say? “
ii. Have It Your Way Mentality”
iii. “The Way It Used to Be Mentality”
iv. “Holier Than Thou Mentality”
c. James reminds us that words can produce devastating consequences in our relationships and community.
II. The Root Problem is a Heart Problem
a. James tells us that “no man can tame his tongue” (3:8)
b. The reason is that the tongue is controlled by the Heart.
i. Matthew 12:34- For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.
ii. Matthew 15:17-19- 17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.
c. What controls the heart? Spirit or the Flesh
i. If we are relying on the flesh, we will never able to truly tame the tongue because the flesh is weak.
ii. Our hearts need to be governed by the Spirit
1. Galatians 5- 16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. 19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
iii. 2 Corinthians 12:9- 9And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for (A)power is perfected in weakness" Most gladly, therefore, I will rather (B)boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
III. Easier said than done!- Colossians 3:1-17
a. Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness
i. Philippians 1- 15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.[c] 18But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
b. Set your mind on Heavenly Things
i. Philippians 4:8- 8Finally, brethren, (N)whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
c. Testing yourself with the cross as the measure- What is your motive?
i. Galatians 6:3-5- 3If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, 5for each one should carry his own load.
ii. 2 Corinthians 10:5- we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
d. Don’t hide from the problems- address them
i. Ephesians 4:25-27- 25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin"[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold.
e. Forgive as the Lord forgives you
f. Put on Love- “put on” Love is something we do, not something we feel.
g. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts
i. Psalm 37:4- Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.
h. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you- Stand on the Promises of God
i. Build one another up!
j. Rejoice Evermore!
i. Philippians 4:4- 4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
James 3:1-12
I. The Devastating Power of Words
a. In 1984, the movie “Gremlins” came out in which a boy receives a pet named Gizmo, a cute, fuzzy, and lovable pet called a Mogwai. There is a huge responsibility in looking after Gizmo as there are certain rules which must be followed. The Mogwai must be kept away from bright light, never made wet and never, ever be fed after midnight. When an accident occurs involving Gizmo and water, the next evolution stage of the Mogwai appears, and it isn't nice at all.
i. When you get him wet- it caused him to multiply into a number of mischievous little brothers. Soon enough, the new Mogwai get hold of some food after midnight and this causes them to change from cute fur-balls into nasty, scaly monsters dubbed 'Gremlins.'
ii. Gremlins destroy and cause havoc.
b. Each of us have the ability to go from a nice and peaceful person- to a scaly monster that causes havoc through our WORDS.
i. We have two natures at work with us- Romans 7:14-25- “What a wretched man I am!”- Have you ever regretted what you say? “
ii. Have It Your Way Mentality”
iii. “The Way It Used to Be Mentality”
iv. “Holier Than Thou Mentality”
c. James reminds us that words can produce devastating consequences in our relationships and community.
II. The Root Problem is a Heart Problem
a. James tells us that “no man can tame his tongue” (3:8)
b. The reason is that the tongue is controlled by the Heart.
i. Matthew 12:34- For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.
ii. Matthew 15:17-19- 17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.
c. What controls the heart? Spirit or the Flesh
i. If we are relying on the flesh, we will never able to truly tame the tongue because the flesh is weak.
ii. Our hearts need to be governed by the Spirit
1. Galatians 5- 16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. 19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
iii. 2 Corinthians 12:9- 9And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for (A)power is perfected in weakness" Most gladly, therefore, I will rather (B)boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
III. Easier said than done!- Colossians 3:1-17
a. Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness
i. Philippians 1- 15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.[c] 18But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
b. Set your mind on Heavenly Things
i. Philippians 4:8- 8Finally, brethren, (N)whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
c. Testing yourself with the cross as the measure- What is your motive?
i. Galatians 6:3-5- 3If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, 5for each one should carry his own load.
ii. 2 Corinthians 10:5- we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
d. Don’t hide from the problems- address them
i. Ephesians 4:25-27- 25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin"[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold.
e. Forgive as the Lord forgives you
f. Put on Love- “put on” Love is something we do, not something we feel.
g. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts
i. Psalm 37:4- Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.
h. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you- Stand on the Promises of God
i. Build one another up!
j. Rejoice Evermore!
i. Philippians 4:4- 4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
TO STAND
TO STAND
Exodus 13:17-14:31
I. Living Between Promise and Provision (vv.17-18)
a. God led the Israelites on the right path, but not the shortest.
b. The path that God leads us on is not an easy one and to see victory is a slow process.
i. The Christian Life is about struggle
ii. Ephesians 6:12- 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
iii. The Ability to STAND
iv. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
c. JESUS: OUR MOSES- Matthew 8:18-27
i. Jesus speaks of the cost of discipleship
1. 18When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. 19Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, "Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go." 20Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
ii. The story of the Storm- After speaking of the cost, Jesus then calms the storms of their lives- Go to Jesus
iii. Exodus- 21 By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. 22 Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.
iv. Psalm 46:7- The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
II. God Will Make Way!- Psalm 46:7-11
a. BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD
i. 13 Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
ii. Psalm 46:10- “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
b. DO NOT BE AFRAID BY RESTING IN THE LORD
i. Psalm 46:8- Come and see the works of the LORD, the desolations he has brought on the earth. (REMEMBER WHAT HE HAS DONE)
ii. Isaiah 46: 1 But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (REMEMBER WHAT HE WILL DO)
iii. Psalm 37:7 (NASB)- 7[a]Rest in the LORD and (A)wait [b]patiently for Him; (B)Do not fret because of him who (C)prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. (Don’t be discouraged)
c. MOVE ON IN HOPE
i. The result is strength to move on and GET OUT OF GETHSAMNE
ii. Isaiah 40:31- But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
iii. 2 Corinthians 5:7- We walk by faith, not by sight (NASB)
d. FEAR THE LORD AND PUT YOUR TRUST IN HIM
i. Do what He tells you to do and he will do what He says He will do.
ii. Psalm 37:5-6- Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
iii. Psalm 111:10- The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
1. Fearing God means believing in His mighty power even when it does not make sense.
iv. 1 Corinthians 1- 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."[d]
v. Psalm 46:11- The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress
III. Fight the Good Fight
a. 2 Timothy 4- 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Exodus 13:17-14:31
I. Living Between Promise and Provision (vv.17-18)
a. God led the Israelites on the right path, but not the shortest.
b. The path that God leads us on is not an easy one and to see victory is a slow process.
i. The Christian Life is about struggle
ii. Ephesians 6:12- 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
iii. The Ability to STAND
iv. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
c. JESUS: OUR MOSES- Matthew 8:18-27
i. Jesus speaks of the cost of discipleship
1. 18When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. 19Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, "Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go." 20Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
ii. The story of the Storm- After speaking of the cost, Jesus then calms the storms of their lives- Go to Jesus
iii. Exodus- 21 By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. 22 Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.
iv. Psalm 46:7- The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
II. God Will Make Way!- Psalm 46:7-11
a. BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD
i. 13 Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
ii. Psalm 46:10- “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
b. DO NOT BE AFRAID BY RESTING IN THE LORD
i. Psalm 46:8- Come and see the works of the LORD, the desolations he has brought on the earth. (REMEMBER WHAT HE HAS DONE)
ii. Isaiah 46: 1 But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (REMEMBER WHAT HE WILL DO)
iii. Psalm 37:7 (NASB)- 7[a]Rest in the LORD and (A)wait [b]patiently for Him; (B)Do not fret because of him who (C)prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. (Don’t be discouraged)
c. MOVE ON IN HOPE
i. The result is strength to move on and GET OUT OF GETHSAMNE
ii. Isaiah 40:31- But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
iii. 2 Corinthians 5:7- We walk by faith, not by sight (NASB)
d. FEAR THE LORD AND PUT YOUR TRUST IN HIM
i. Do what He tells you to do and he will do what He says He will do.
ii. Psalm 37:5-6- Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
iii. Psalm 111:10- The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
1. Fearing God means believing in His mighty power even when it does not make sense.
iv. 1 Corinthians 1- 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."[d]
v. Psalm 46:11- The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress
III. Fight the Good Fight
a. 2 Timothy 4- 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Sword of the Spirit & Feet Fitted with the Readiness That Comes from the Gospel of Peace
The Battles Is The Lord’s: Part 4
Sword of the Spirit & Feet Fitted with the Readiness That Comes from the Gospel of Peace
2 Timothy 3
I. The Power of the Word of God
a. The word of God is our tool for training in righteousness
i. 16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
ii. The Word of God shows us OUR sin and HIS grace which is THE hope.
1. Romans 7:7- Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law.
2. Romans 8- 3For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature,[b] God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering.[c] And so he condemned sin in sinful man,[d] 4in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.
iii. The Word of God shows us how to live life at its best!
1. Joshua 1: 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
b. The word of God is our weapon against the enemy
i. The word of God increases our faith/makes us stronger- Romans 10-17Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
ii. The word of God allows us to see the Devil’s lies- John 8- 44You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
1. Jesus when tempted countered every deception with God’s truth
c. The word of God is the instrument to breakdown strongholds and advance God’s Kingdom
i. 2 Corinthians 10- 3For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
ii. We demolish strongholds by preaching Christ crucified- 1 Corinthians 1:23
II. Unlocking the Power of the Word of God: Love!
a. Matthew 22- 36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'[b] 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[c] 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
b. Love prevents the abuse of the word of God!
i. 1 Corinthians 13- 1If I speak in the tongues[a] of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
c. Love allows us to correctly apply the word of God!- Marriage Illustration
i. Ephesians 4:15- 15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
III. Advancing the Word of God- Ready to spread the Gospel
a. If you love me, feed my sheep
i. 2 Corinthians 5:14- For Christ's love compels us
ii. 1 Peter 3:15- 15But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
b. Preach always, and when necessary use words
Sword of the Spirit & Feet Fitted with the Readiness That Comes from the Gospel of Peace
2 Timothy 3
I. The Power of the Word of God
a. The word of God is our tool for training in righteousness
i. 16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
ii. The Word of God shows us OUR sin and HIS grace which is THE hope.
1. Romans 7:7- Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law.
2. Romans 8- 3For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature,[b] God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering.[c] And so he condemned sin in sinful man,[d] 4in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.
iii. The Word of God shows us how to live life at its best!
1. Joshua 1: 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
b. The word of God is our weapon against the enemy
i. The word of God increases our faith/makes us stronger- Romans 10-17Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
ii. The word of God allows us to see the Devil’s lies- John 8- 44You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
1. Jesus when tempted countered every deception with God’s truth
c. The word of God is the instrument to breakdown strongholds and advance God’s Kingdom
i. 2 Corinthians 10- 3For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
ii. We demolish strongholds by preaching Christ crucified- 1 Corinthians 1:23
II. Unlocking the Power of the Word of God: Love!
a. Matthew 22- 36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'[b] 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[c] 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
b. Love prevents the abuse of the word of God!
i. 1 Corinthians 13- 1If I speak in the tongues[a] of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
c. Love allows us to correctly apply the word of God!- Marriage Illustration
i. Ephesians 4:15- 15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
III. Advancing the Word of God- Ready to spread the Gospel
a. If you love me, feed my sheep
i. 2 Corinthians 5:14- For Christ's love compels us
ii. 1 Peter 3:15- 15But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
b. Preach always, and when necessary use words
THE BELT OF TRUTH: INTEGRITY
The Belt of Truth: Integrity
May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you. (Psalm 25:21- of David)
I. What is INTEGRITY?
a. Integrity is being who you say you are.
b. Biblical integrity is being the person that Christ has called us to be.
c. The Belt of Truth- Integrity- is the cornerstone piece in our armor that protects us against the barrage of attacks from Satan because:
i. We know who we serve
ii. We know who He says we are
iii. We know that his grace is sufficient
d. Without integrity, none of the other pieces of spiritual armor fits.
i. Integrity requires uprightness in order to be an effective protection.
e. Integrity does not mean that we are perfect, but it does mean that we are always striving to be better- “Because my hope is in you”.
i. Romans 3:28- For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.
ii. Romans 6- 1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
II. Compromise’s destructive power- 2 Samuel 11
a. The weapon that the enemy uses against our integrity is compromise.
b. Compromise is a settlement- Hunter and the Bear Story
c. Compromises start out small- Crack in the foundation.
i. 1 In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem.
d. Compromise dwells in the secret corners of our lives.
e. Compromises grow!
f. The effects of compromise- 2 Samuel 12:7-12
i. Hurts our relationship with God, others, and ourselves- affects our ability to receive blessings.
ii. May have long term consequences- God forgives sin, but does not always cancel the consequences of our actions.
III. How to maintain our integrity in the face of compromise?
a. Admit you can’t do it on your own.
i. Only by Grace!
1. 1 Peter 5- 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
ii. Develop mentoring and accountable relationships- Proverbs 27- As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
b. Be Alert- 1 Peter 5:8- 8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
c. Don’t let the Devil get a foothold- RUN!
i. James 4:7- Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
d. Clean out your closet- CONFESS.
i. 2There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 3What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs. (Luke 12)
ii. Psalm 139- 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
e. Keep focused on Jesus!
i. Hebrews 12- 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
ii. 1 Peter 5- 10And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you. (Psalm 25:21- of David)
I. What is INTEGRITY?
a. Integrity is being who you say you are.
b. Biblical integrity is being the person that Christ has called us to be.
c. The Belt of Truth- Integrity- is the cornerstone piece in our armor that protects us against the barrage of attacks from Satan because:
i. We know who we serve
ii. We know who He says we are
iii. We know that his grace is sufficient
d. Without integrity, none of the other pieces of spiritual armor fits.
i. Integrity requires uprightness in order to be an effective protection.
e. Integrity does not mean that we are perfect, but it does mean that we are always striving to be better- “Because my hope is in you”.
i. Romans 3:28- For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.
ii. Romans 6- 1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
II. Compromise’s destructive power- 2 Samuel 11
a. The weapon that the enemy uses against our integrity is compromise.
b. Compromise is a settlement- Hunter and the Bear Story
c. Compromises start out small- Crack in the foundation.
i. 1 In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem.
d. Compromise dwells in the secret corners of our lives.
e. Compromises grow!
f. The effects of compromise- 2 Samuel 12:7-12
i. Hurts our relationship with God, others, and ourselves- affects our ability to receive blessings.
ii. May have long term consequences- God forgives sin, but does not always cancel the consequences of our actions.
III. How to maintain our integrity in the face of compromise?
a. Admit you can’t do it on your own.
i. Only by Grace!
1. 1 Peter 5- 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
ii. Develop mentoring and accountable relationships- Proverbs 27- As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
b. Be Alert- 1 Peter 5:8- 8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
c. Don’t let the Devil get a foothold- RUN!
i. James 4:7- Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
d. Clean out your closet- CONFESS.
i. 2There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 3What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs. (Luke 12)
ii. Psalm 139- 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
e. Keep focused on Jesus!
i. Hebrews 12- 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
ii. 1 Peter 5- 10And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
SPIRITUAL DEFENSE
The Battle Is the Lord’s: Spiritual Defense
Ephesians 6:10-18
I. Understanding the Devil’s Tactics- Matthew 4:1-11
a. Blood in the Water- Devil comes at your weakest point
b. Bread- Distraction
c. Temple- Distortion
d. Kingdoms- Doubt
II. The Helmet of Salvation- Guard Your Mind- What you think?
a. Titus 2:11- For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.
b. Acts 4:12- 12Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
c. James 4:7- 7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8Come near to God and he will come near to you.
d. Romans 8:5- Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.
e. Colossians 3:2- Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
f. 1 Peter 1:3- Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.
III. The Breastplate of Righteousness- Guard Your Heart- What you feel?
a. Matthew 5:6- Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.- What are you desiring?
i. Matthew 6:33- But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
ii. Romans 3- 21But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
iii. Philippians 3- 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith.
b. Galatians 6- 14May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which[b] the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation.
i. Romans 4- 4Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. 5However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.
IV. The Shield of Faith- What you believe?- Hebrews 11
a. 1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
b. By faith, not by sight!
Ephesians 6:10-18
I. Understanding the Devil’s Tactics- Matthew 4:1-11
a. Blood in the Water- Devil comes at your weakest point
b. Bread- Distraction
c. Temple- Distortion
d. Kingdoms- Doubt
II. The Helmet of Salvation- Guard Your Mind- What you think?
a. Titus 2:11- For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.
b. Acts 4:12- 12Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
c. James 4:7- 7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8Come near to God and he will come near to you.
d. Romans 8:5- Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.
e. Colossians 3:2- Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
f. 1 Peter 1:3- Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.
III. The Breastplate of Righteousness- Guard Your Heart- What you feel?
a. Matthew 5:6- Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.- What are you desiring?
i. Matthew 6:33- But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
ii. Romans 3- 21But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
iii. Philippians 3- 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith.
b. Galatians 6- 14May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which[b] the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation.
i. Romans 4- 4Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. 5However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.
IV. The Shield of Faith- What you believe?- Hebrews 11
a. 1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
b. By faith, not by sight!
THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD; PRAYER
THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD:
Preparing for the Battle- Prayer
Ephesians 6:10-18
I. The Battle Belongs to the Lord
a. The Battles that Choose Us
i. Psalm 44:22- Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.
b. The Battle we choose through our sinful and willful disobedience.
i. Jonah- living in the belly of the whale.
ii. The Holy Spirit will direct us, but if we ignore it, it will be to our peril.
c. No matter the Battle- the Lord is there to see us through and to make the outcome work to our benefit.
i. Romans 8:28- 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[j] who[k] have been called according to his purpose.
ii. Psalm 61:2- From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
II. All Battles are Spiritual-
a. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
b. Our first reaction is many times to fight using our own power and might!
i. Peter & the Ear- John 18:1-11
1. Peter was sleeping earlier while Jesus was preparing himself through prayer. Matthew 26:36-45
ii. We use prayer as a last resort (All we can do is pray.) when it is our most powerful weapon.
1. 2 Corinthians 10:4- The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
2. Pride keeps us from praying!
a. 2 Chronicles 4:17- if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
iii. David and Goliath- Pick your armor- the Holy Spirit
III. Prayerful Preparation
a. Jesus knew the necessity of a solid prayer life with the Father- he prayed at the beginning and at the end of every day.
i. Prayer was a means to a solid relationship with the Father.
1. The Promised Land was not just a land, but the journey was a means to a relationship- God’s priority.
2. 1 Thess 5- 16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
b. The Enemy is always at work to steal, kill, and destroy you.
i. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
1. Our security is found in the power of the Holy Spirit which is only harnessed through prayer.
2. Proverbs 18:10- The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
IV. Praying through the Battle- Exodus 7:9-13
a. Keep Your Hands Up to the Lord
i. Phil 1:9- Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
b. Keep Holding the Hands of Others Up
i. James 5:16- Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
c. Keep on Trusting!
i. 1 Chronicles 5:20- They were helped in fighting them, and God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in him.
Preparing for the Battle- Prayer
Ephesians 6:10-18
I. The Battle Belongs to the Lord
a. The Battles that Choose Us
i. Psalm 44:22- Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.
b. The Battle we choose through our sinful and willful disobedience.
i. Jonah- living in the belly of the whale.
ii. The Holy Spirit will direct us, but if we ignore it, it will be to our peril.
c. No matter the Battle- the Lord is there to see us through and to make the outcome work to our benefit.
i. Romans 8:28- 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[j] who[k] have been called according to his purpose.
ii. Psalm 61:2- From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
II. All Battles are Spiritual-
a. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
b. Our first reaction is many times to fight using our own power and might!
i. Peter & the Ear- John 18:1-11
1. Peter was sleeping earlier while Jesus was preparing himself through prayer. Matthew 26:36-45
ii. We use prayer as a last resort (All we can do is pray.) when it is our most powerful weapon.
1. 2 Corinthians 10:4- The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
2. Pride keeps us from praying!
a. 2 Chronicles 4:17- if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
iii. David and Goliath- Pick your armor- the Holy Spirit
III. Prayerful Preparation
a. Jesus knew the necessity of a solid prayer life with the Father- he prayed at the beginning and at the end of every day.
i. Prayer was a means to a solid relationship with the Father.
1. The Promised Land was not just a land, but the journey was a means to a relationship- God’s priority.
2. 1 Thess 5- 16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
b. The Enemy is always at work to steal, kill, and destroy you.
i. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
1. Our security is found in the power of the Holy Spirit which is only harnessed through prayer.
2. Proverbs 18:10- The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
IV. Praying through the Battle- Exodus 7:9-13
a. Keep Your Hands Up to the Lord
i. Phil 1:9- Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
b. Keep Holding the Hands of Others Up
i. James 5:16- Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
c. Keep on Trusting!
i. 1 Chronicles 5:20- They were helped in fighting them, and God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in him.
I AM THE TRUE VINE
“I AM THE TRUE VINE”
John 15:1-17
I. Jesus is our source for life at its best.
a. Doing it on our own is exhausting!
i. Great Depression- Run on the Bank- It’s a Wonderful Life
ii. FDIC- Jesus insures that we will have sufficient grace for every circumstance.
1. 2 Corinthians 9- 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
iii. Overdraft protection- 1 Peter 5:10- 10And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
b. Jesus wants us to have an abundant life IN HIM
i. John 10- 10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
c. What does it mean to have life to the full?
i. Romans 14- 17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit
1. 1 Cor. 1:30- It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
2. Phil. 4- 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.- Right Thinking
3. Neh. 8:10- Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
II. Only through Jesus can we bear lasting fruit that will be for the Father’s glory.
a. Can I bear fruit apart from Jesus?
i. The fruit that we bear apart from Jesus is temporary and not satisfying.
1. Living Water
ii. The branch broken off from the vine will wither. Likewise, it is impossible to live the Christian life without being part of the vine.
1. Psalm 1
iii. Living a Legacy- What we do for the Kingdom will be completed.
b. It is not our responsibility to live out the Christian life.
i. Through the Spirit, the Christian life is lived out through us, not by us.
ii. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 5)
iii. Surrender to the Holy Spirit
1. Admit that you can’t do it- But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
2. Pour on the power! Matthew 17:20- He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
III. We need to remain in Christ and remain with each other!
a. Hebrews 10- 19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. (THIS IS HOW YOU LOVE OTHERS) 25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
John 15:1-17
I. Jesus is our source for life at its best.
a. Doing it on our own is exhausting!
i. Great Depression- Run on the Bank- It’s a Wonderful Life
ii. FDIC- Jesus insures that we will have sufficient grace for every circumstance.
1. 2 Corinthians 9- 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
iii. Overdraft protection- 1 Peter 5:10- 10And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
b. Jesus wants us to have an abundant life IN HIM
i. John 10- 10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
c. What does it mean to have life to the full?
i. Romans 14- 17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit
1. 1 Cor. 1:30- It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
2. Phil. 4- 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.- Right Thinking
3. Neh. 8:10- Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
II. Only through Jesus can we bear lasting fruit that will be for the Father’s glory.
a. Can I bear fruit apart from Jesus?
i. The fruit that we bear apart from Jesus is temporary and not satisfying.
1. Living Water
ii. The branch broken off from the vine will wither. Likewise, it is impossible to live the Christian life without being part of the vine.
1. Psalm 1
iii. Living a Legacy- What we do for the Kingdom will be completed.
b. It is not our responsibility to live out the Christian life.
i. Through the Spirit, the Christian life is lived out through us, not by us.
ii. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 5)
iii. Surrender to the Holy Spirit
1. Admit that you can’t do it- But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
2. Pour on the power! Matthew 17:20- He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
III. We need to remain in Christ and remain with each other!
a. Hebrews 10- 19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. (THIS IS HOW YOU LOVE OTHERS) 25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
FIRST THINGS FIRST- MOTHER'S DAY
“First Things First”
Mother’s Day Lessons from Rebekah
Genesis 27:1-25
RATS- Biblical Parenting
I. REMEMBER
a. You are only a trustee of your child.
i. Children have a special place in God’s heart. (Mark 10:14)
1. 14When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
2. God wants parents to know and recognize that each child should be loved and valued.
3. To Whom Much is Given, Much is Expected
b. Each child is special and God has a plan for them.
i. Genesis 25- 28 Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.
1. 1 Corinthians 12- The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
2. Psalm 139- For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
3. 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. (Jeremiah 29)
II. ACT as CHRIST- Be a Godly Example
a. 1 Thess. 2- 11For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.
b. Deuteronomy 4- 9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
c. 1 Corinthians 11- 1Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
III. TRAIN in Righteousness
a. Many parents desire the best for their children. However, many times their desire for the best can create the worst.
i. God’s word teaches that we need to be focused on the right process and then He is responsible for the right outcome.
1. Proverbs 22:6- Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
2. Philippians 1:6- he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
ii. How do we train?
1. Study the Bible with your children/pray with your children.
2. SHARE your trials and failures.
IV. SURRENDER
a. Jacob and Esau’s relationship was strained and he spent many years away working for Laban- but he returned home to his foundation.
i. God allowed him to grow up.
1. The Prodigal Son
2. 8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me (Psalm 138)
3. Romans 8:28- 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[a] who[b] have been called according to his purpose.
4. God wrestled with him.
V. REPENT – Start Over
Mother’s Day Lessons from Rebekah
Genesis 27:1-25
RATS- Biblical Parenting
I. REMEMBER
a. You are only a trustee of your child.
i. Children have a special place in God’s heart. (Mark 10:14)
1. 14When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
2. God wants parents to know and recognize that each child should be loved and valued.
3. To Whom Much is Given, Much is Expected
b. Each child is special and God has a plan for them.
i. Genesis 25- 28 Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.
1. 1 Corinthians 12- The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
2. Psalm 139- For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
3. 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. (Jeremiah 29)
II. ACT as CHRIST- Be a Godly Example
a. 1 Thess. 2- 11For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.
b. Deuteronomy 4- 9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
c. 1 Corinthians 11- 1Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
III. TRAIN in Righteousness
a. Many parents desire the best for their children. However, many times their desire for the best can create the worst.
i. God’s word teaches that we need to be focused on the right process and then He is responsible for the right outcome.
1. Proverbs 22:6- Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
2. Philippians 1:6- he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
ii. How do we train?
1. Study the Bible with your children/pray with your children.
2. SHARE your trials and failures.
IV. SURRENDER
a. Jacob and Esau’s relationship was strained and he spent many years away working for Laban- but he returned home to his foundation.
i. God allowed him to grow up.
1. The Prodigal Son
2. 8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me (Psalm 138)
3. Romans 8:28- 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[a] who[b] have been called according to his purpose.
4. God wrestled with him.
V. REPENT – Start Over
I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE
I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE
John 14:5-14
I. For Jesus to be the way, he must be accepted as the truth manifested in the life.
II. WAY: Jesus is the only remedy for sinful man to approach a Holy God.
a. Some take issue with the fact that Jesus is the only way.
i. God did not have to make a way. But because of his great love for us, he chose to make the way himself.
b. Being a “good” person does not get you into heaven, because “no one is righteous” (Romans 3:10)
1. James 2:10- For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
2. What is the penalty and remedy for breaking a command?
3. Jesus says that sin reigns in our hearts and minds, even if we do not act on them.
a. Romans 12:2- Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
c. The Imparted of Righteousness of Christ (Romans 3:21-31)- He is our Sin bearer
i. Because we have all sinned, God needed to present a blameless sacrifice.
ii. Righteousness is not achieved through right actions, but through a right relationship with God, the Father, through Jesus, the Son.
1. 4Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. (Romans 10)
iii. The right relationship will bring about right living over time because it changes the heart. (Romans 7:21-25)
III. TRUTH: Jesus is not our life insurance policy. He is the policy of life’s assurances.
a. The promise of eternal life is an amazing gift, but it is only the beginning.
i. Social Security provides the basics for retirement, but in order to have a full retirement it requires that you prepare now for then.
ii. Today’s average 50 year old only has $2300 saved toward retirement.
iii. Less than 1/2 of American workers have attempted to calculate how much they need to save for retirement.
b. When I get to heaven, I want to hear…well done and that means that I have to live like Jesus now.
c. Believing that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior means that I accept him as the standard bearer.
i. Luke 16:13- "No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money."
ii. You will either be a slave to righteousness or a slave to sin. One leads to abundant life and the other leads to eternal death.
iii. Being a Christian means that I strive to be more like Jesus.
1. John 3- 36"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." (NASB)
2. Philippians 1:20- 21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
3. John 3- 30He must become greater; I must become less.
4. John 14- 12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing.
iv. How do you act in this life?
1. Jesus quoting the prophet Isaiah in Matthew 15 states: 8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'
IV. LIFE: Our decisions determine our direction which leads to our destination.
a. Luke 12:34- 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
i. What do you value in this life?
b. Following Jesus means living life at its best!- More peace, joy, love.
i. Jesus sets you free from the bondage of sin to live a life of freedom.
John 14:5-14
I. For Jesus to be the way, he must be accepted as the truth manifested in the life.
II. WAY: Jesus is the only remedy for sinful man to approach a Holy God.
a. Some take issue with the fact that Jesus is the only way.
i. God did not have to make a way. But because of his great love for us, he chose to make the way himself.
b. Being a “good” person does not get you into heaven, because “no one is righteous” (Romans 3:10)
1. James 2:10- For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
2. What is the penalty and remedy for breaking a command?
3. Jesus says that sin reigns in our hearts and minds, even if we do not act on them.
a. Romans 12:2- Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
c. The Imparted of Righteousness of Christ (Romans 3:21-31)- He is our Sin bearer
i. Because we have all sinned, God needed to present a blameless sacrifice.
ii. Righteousness is not achieved through right actions, but through a right relationship with God, the Father, through Jesus, the Son.
1. 4Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. (Romans 10)
iii. The right relationship will bring about right living over time because it changes the heart. (Romans 7:21-25)
III. TRUTH: Jesus is not our life insurance policy. He is the policy of life’s assurances.
a. The promise of eternal life is an amazing gift, but it is only the beginning.
i. Social Security provides the basics for retirement, but in order to have a full retirement it requires that you prepare now for then.
ii. Today’s average 50 year old only has $2300 saved toward retirement.
iii. Less than 1/2 of American workers have attempted to calculate how much they need to save for retirement.
b. When I get to heaven, I want to hear…well done and that means that I have to live like Jesus now.
c. Believing that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior means that I accept him as the standard bearer.
i. Luke 16:13- "No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money."
ii. You will either be a slave to righteousness or a slave to sin. One leads to abundant life and the other leads to eternal death.
iii. Being a Christian means that I strive to be more like Jesus.
1. John 3- 36"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." (NASB)
2. Philippians 1:20- 21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
3. John 3- 30He must become greater; I must become less.
4. John 14- 12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing.
iv. How do you act in this life?
1. Jesus quoting the prophet Isaiah in Matthew 15 states: 8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'
IV. LIFE: Our decisions determine our direction which leads to our destination.
a. Luke 12:34- 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
i. What do you value in this life?
b. Following Jesus means living life at its best!- More peace, joy, love.
i. Jesus sets you free from the bondage of sin to live a life of freedom.
I AM THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE
I AM THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE
John 11
When Life Does Not Make Sense…
I. Lord, the one you love is sick.
a. Resurrection implies that we will go through death/destruction
i. Though outwardly we are wasting away (2 Corinthians 4:6)
ii. Why does God allow it to be so hard?
1. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. (2 Corinthians 4:11-12)- So that he will be glorified!
b. 5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. (Romans 5)
i. Psalm 10:14- But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.
ii. HE IS OUR HOPE
c. The Rain falls on the Good and the Wicked (Matthew 7:24-27)
i. Build you your house upon the rock
ii. Psalm 9:9- The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
II. Resurrection Power
a. We need to call out to Jesus in our times of distress, just like Mary and Martha- GO TO THE ROCK
b. We need to wait patiently for His answer.
i. In our waiting, we need to acknowledge what we believe- Do you believe this?- Joseph
ii. Live what we believe and Trust God that His will is best.
c. When the enemy has destroyed—God will resurrect something new.
i. Isaiah 61:3- A Crown of Beauty Instead of Ashes; The oil of gladness, instead of mourning; a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
ii. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. (1 Peter 5:10)
iii. He makes ALL things new (Revelation 21:1-5)
1. 2 Corinthians 5:17- 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
iv. What is new?
1. New Identity
a. John 1:12- God’s Child
b. John 15:15- I am a friend to God
c. Colossians 2:9-10- I am complete in Christ
d. 1 Corinthians 3:16- I am God’s temple
2. New Hope
a. Hebrews 3:6- But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.
b. Titus 2:13- while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,
3. New Strength
a. Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength
III. Take off the grave clothes and let him go.
a. The grave clothes are always calling and trying to bring you down.
i. Be Hot or Cold- Revelation 3:16- So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
b. John 16:33- "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
c. SHED THE GRAVE CLOTHES
John 11
When Life Does Not Make Sense…
I. Lord, the one you love is sick.
a. Resurrection implies that we will go through death/destruction
i. Though outwardly we are wasting away (2 Corinthians 4:6)
ii. Why does God allow it to be so hard?
1. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. (2 Corinthians 4:11-12)- So that he will be glorified!
b. 5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. (Romans 5)
i. Psalm 10:14- But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.
ii. HE IS OUR HOPE
c. The Rain falls on the Good and the Wicked (Matthew 7:24-27)
i. Build you your house upon the rock
ii. Psalm 9:9- The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
II. Resurrection Power
a. We need to call out to Jesus in our times of distress, just like Mary and Martha- GO TO THE ROCK
b. We need to wait patiently for His answer.
i. In our waiting, we need to acknowledge what we believe- Do you believe this?- Joseph
ii. Live what we believe and Trust God that His will is best.
c. When the enemy has destroyed—God will resurrect something new.
i. Isaiah 61:3- A Crown of Beauty Instead of Ashes; The oil of gladness, instead of mourning; a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
ii. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. (1 Peter 5:10)
iii. He makes ALL things new (Revelation 21:1-5)
1. 2 Corinthians 5:17- 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
iv. What is new?
1. New Identity
a. John 1:12- God’s Child
b. John 15:15- I am a friend to God
c. Colossians 2:9-10- I am complete in Christ
d. 1 Corinthians 3:16- I am God’s temple
2. New Hope
a. Hebrews 3:6- But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.
b. Titus 2:13- while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,
3. New Strength
a. Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength
III. Take off the grave clothes and let him go.
a. The grave clothes are always calling and trying to bring you down.
i. Be Hot or Cold- Revelation 3:16- So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
b. John 16:33- "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
c. SHED THE GRAVE CLOTHES
I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD
I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD
John 10:11-18; Luke 15:3-7
I. Jesus Christ- Our Good Shepherd
a. He is the good shepherd who loves us and takes care of us!
b. The Shepherd’s Staff of Jesus is the HOLY SPIRIT
i. John 16:5-16
ii. It convicts us, teaches us, leads us, and reaches us.
II. The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life For His Sheep
a. Jesus is different from false teachers and prophets because he did not just talk the talk and walk the walk, he died our death.
b. He protects the flock because he loves his sheep.
i. 1 John 4:14- And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.
ii. Luke 9:56 (KJV)- For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them.
iii. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[c] in you. 18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. (John 14)
iv. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, righteousness, judgment
III. The Good Shepherd Knows the Sheep of His Flock
a. He has made himself known to the flock.
b. He speaks to the flock and his flock listens!
i. John 14- 26But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
ii. Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me." (John 18:37)
c. He knows and tends to the needs of the flock.
i. Psalm 23:1- The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
ii. Romans 5:6- You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
iii. Psalm- You fill my cup until it overflows- ABUNDANT LIFE
IV. The Good Shepherd Leads the Flock
a. 2 Corinthians 2:14 (Message)- In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade.
b. You may be obeying the laws of God and not following the lead of God.
c. John 16- 13But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.
i. The Shepherd is leading us from Glory to Glory
d. The Shepherd has cleared the path before us
i. Psalm 23:3- He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
ii. He has prepared a table in front of my enemies- Jesus is taking care of us in the midst of our enemies
1. Psalm 23 (CEV)- You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. You honor me as a guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows.
2. Where he is leading us? Amongst our enemies.
3. Ephesians 2:6- And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
V. The Good Shepherd Brings Others Into the Flock
a. Isaiah 56:8- The Sovereign LORD declares— he who gathers the exiles of Israel: "I will gather still others to them besides those already gathered."
VI. The Good Shepherd Goes After the Lost Sheep
a. Luke 15:3-7
b. You can’t sin your way out of the love of Christ.
c. Where you are is where He is.
John 10:11-18; Luke 15:3-7
I. Jesus Christ- Our Good Shepherd
a. He is the good shepherd who loves us and takes care of us!
b. The Shepherd’s Staff of Jesus is the HOLY SPIRIT
i. John 16:5-16
ii. It convicts us, teaches us, leads us, and reaches us.
II. The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life For His Sheep
a. Jesus is different from false teachers and prophets because he did not just talk the talk and walk the walk, he died our death.
b. He protects the flock because he loves his sheep.
i. 1 John 4:14- And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.
ii. Luke 9:56 (KJV)- For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them.
iii. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[c] in you. 18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. (John 14)
iv. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, righteousness, judgment
III. The Good Shepherd Knows the Sheep of His Flock
a. He has made himself known to the flock.
b. He speaks to the flock and his flock listens!
i. John 14- 26But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
ii. Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me." (John 18:37)
c. He knows and tends to the needs of the flock.
i. Psalm 23:1- The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
ii. Romans 5:6- You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
iii. Psalm- You fill my cup until it overflows- ABUNDANT LIFE
IV. The Good Shepherd Leads the Flock
a. 2 Corinthians 2:14 (Message)- In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade.
b. You may be obeying the laws of God and not following the lead of God.
c. John 16- 13But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.
i. The Shepherd is leading us from Glory to Glory
d. The Shepherd has cleared the path before us
i. Psalm 23:3- He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
ii. He has prepared a table in front of my enemies- Jesus is taking care of us in the midst of our enemies
1. Psalm 23 (CEV)- You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. You honor me as a guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows.
2. Where he is leading us? Amongst our enemies.
3. Ephesians 2:6- And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
V. The Good Shepherd Brings Others Into the Flock
a. Isaiah 56:8- The Sovereign LORD declares— he who gathers the exiles of Israel: "I will gather still others to them besides those already gathered."
VI. The Good Shepherd Goes After the Lost Sheep
a. Luke 15:3-7
b. You can’t sin your way out of the love of Christ.
c. Where you are is where He is.
I AM THE GATE
I AM THE GATE
John 1:1-10; Ephesians 2
I. The Gate to the Father
a. In Christ, the barrier between humans and the Father have been destroyed from the TOP-DOWN
b. Ephesians 2- 14For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
c. Philippians 4- 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
d. Matthew 7- 7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.- We cannot wear our welcome out.
II. The Gate to Our Pasture
a. Ephesians 2- 4But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
b. Revelation 21- 5He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"
c. God has a plan for your life!
i. Jeremiah 1:5- "Before I formed you in the womb I knew [a] you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
ii. Psalm 139:14-18
d. How do we find our pasture?
i. Choose this day who you will serve!
ii. Seek First the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness (Matthew 6:33)
iii. Set the Lord Continually Before You
1. Isaiah 53:6- We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
2. Psalm 16:8- 8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
iv. Psalm 3:5-6
1. Trust in the Lord- Remember He has a Plan
2. Lean Not on your own understanding- Remember- You are sheep!
3. In all your ways acknowledge him- Seek His Guidance and Direction
a. Be Still and Know that I am God! (Psalm 46:10)
b. Psalm 37:7,9- WAIT Patiently for Him, do not fret when men succeed in their ways…For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
c. PRAY
d. STUDY THE SCRIPTURES AND GO TO CHURCH
4. He will make your paths straight
III. The Gate of Our Security
a. John 10- 27My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all[d]; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30I and the Father are one."
John 1:1-10; Ephesians 2
I. The Gate to the Father
a. In Christ, the barrier between humans and the Father have been destroyed from the TOP-DOWN
b. Ephesians 2- 14For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
c. Philippians 4- 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
d. Matthew 7- 7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.- We cannot wear our welcome out.
II. The Gate to Our Pasture
a. Ephesians 2- 4But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
b. Revelation 21- 5He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"
c. God has a plan for your life!
i. Jeremiah 1:5- "Before I formed you in the womb I knew [a] you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
ii. Psalm 139:14-18
d. How do we find our pasture?
i. Choose this day who you will serve!
ii. Seek First the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness (Matthew 6:33)
iii. Set the Lord Continually Before You
1. Isaiah 53:6- We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
2. Psalm 16:8- 8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
iv. Psalm 3:5-6
1. Trust in the Lord- Remember He has a Plan
2. Lean Not on your own understanding- Remember- You are sheep!
3. In all your ways acknowledge him- Seek His Guidance and Direction
a. Be Still and Know that I am God! (Psalm 46:10)
b. Psalm 37:7,9- WAIT Patiently for Him, do not fret when men succeed in their ways…For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
c. PRAY
d. STUDY THE SCRIPTURES AND GO TO CHURCH
4. He will make your paths straight
III. The Gate of Our Security
a. John 10- 27My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all[d]; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30I and the Father are one."
I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
John 8:12: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
1 John 1:5-10
I. God is the Pure Light
a. Pure White Light is the Source of All Colors
i. God is light; in him there is no darkness at all-just complete unity. No confusion.
ii. The color black absorbs all other colors, while the color white is the reflection of all the colors in the spectrum.
iii. God is good and holy and there is no evil in him.
b. Genesis 1:27- So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
i. We were created to reflect the Glory of the Lord in his presence…to be a mirror of His image
1. Isaiah 43:7- Created for His Glory
2. We were created for his pleasure [for a relationship] (Revelation 4:12-KJV)
II. Fractured Light
a. Like a Prism- the Fall of Mankind fractured the image and light of God in us
i. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. (Genesis 3)
ii. It separated us from God and from each other- broke the unity
iii. We see through a glass darkly because it is only illuminated by our light and not his and darkened because of our sin
1. 1 Corinthians 13:12- 12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (KJV)
b. Sin (darkness) entered into the world and has darkened and distorted our vision and perception of the truth
i. 1 John 5:6- 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth.
ii. Isaiah 9:2- The people walking in the darkness
c. Jesus came to show us the Glory of the Lord and Bring the Light into the World- To restore the unity
i. John 1:9- 9The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
ii. 2There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Matthew 17:1-13
d. What His Light Provides?
i. Gives Me A Direction- Guidance- Marco/Polo
1. Isaiah 60:19- The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory
2. Where I came from/ Where I am going- I was blind, but now I see
ii. Gives Me An Identity
1. I am able to see who I truly am- we do not lose ourselves in God, but we find our truest self- Who we were met to be
iii. Provides Unity- All the colors come together in Him in Pure White Light
1. Galatians 3:26- 26You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
2. We all reflect Christ!
iv. The Ability to Overcome the Darkness- The darkness has not overtaken it!
III. Reflecting the Glory of the Lord
a. Matthew 5:16- In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
b. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9)
c. 1 John 1:7- 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all[b] sin.
i. In the Light as He is in the Light- starts by Accepting the Blood of Jesus DAILY
1. Black (sin) absorbs all colors of light and we cannot see. The color that changes our black hearts to pure white is Holy Red- The Blood of Jesus
ii. Confessing and Repenting of Our Sin DAILY
1. 1 John 1- 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
iii. Walking in the Light DAILY
1. 12Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 13We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away. 14But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. 15Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. 16But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect[a] the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3)
John 8:12: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
1 John 1:5-10
I. God is the Pure Light
a. Pure White Light is the Source of All Colors
i. God is light; in him there is no darkness at all-just complete unity. No confusion.
ii. The color black absorbs all other colors, while the color white is the reflection of all the colors in the spectrum.
iii. God is good and holy and there is no evil in him.
b. Genesis 1:27- So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
i. We were created to reflect the Glory of the Lord in his presence…to be a mirror of His image
1. Isaiah 43:7- Created for His Glory
2. We were created for his pleasure [for a relationship] (Revelation 4:12-KJV)
II. Fractured Light
a. Like a Prism- the Fall of Mankind fractured the image and light of God in us
i. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. (Genesis 3)
ii. It separated us from God and from each other- broke the unity
iii. We see through a glass darkly because it is only illuminated by our light and not his and darkened because of our sin
1. 1 Corinthians 13:12- 12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (KJV)
b. Sin (darkness) entered into the world and has darkened and distorted our vision and perception of the truth
i. 1 John 5:6- 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth.
ii. Isaiah 9:2- The people walking in the darkness
c. Jesus came to show us the Glory of the Lord and Bring the Light into the World- To restore the unity
i. John 1:9- 9The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
ii. 2There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Matthew 17:1-13
d. What His Light Provides?
i. Gives Me A Direction- Guidance- Marco/Polo
1. Isaiah 60:19- The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory
2. Where I came from/ Where I am going- I was blind, but now I see
ii. Gives Me An Identity
1. I am able to see who I truly am- we do not lose ourselves in God, but we find our truest self- Who we were met to be
iii. Provides Unity- All the colors come together in Him in Pure White Light
1. Galatians 3:26- 26You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
2. We all reflect Christ!
iv. The Ability to Overcome the Darkness- The darkness has not overtaken it!
III. Reflecting the Glory of the Lord
a. Matthew 5:16- In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
b. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9)
c. 1 John 1:7- 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all[b] sin.
i. In the Light as He is in the Light- starts by Accepting the Blood of Jesus DAILY
1. Black (sin) absorbs all colors of light and we cannot see. The color that changes our black hearts to pure white is Holy Red- The Blood of Jesus
ii. Confessing and Repenting of Our Sin DAILY
1. 1 John 1- 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
iii. Walking in the Light DAILY
1. 12Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 13We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away. 14But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. 15Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. 16But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect[a] the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3)
I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE
JESUS: I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE
John 6:25-59
I. Jesus satisfies EVERY human need.
a. Manna from heaven met the Israelites needs, but they became bored with it and hungry again
b. Jesus is the bread of life that SATISFIES every human need because he has come from the Father who knows what we need before we ask
c. Daily Bread- daily we need to come to Jesus who is the source of our life
d. Abraham Maslow- American Psychologist- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs- Physiological, Safety, Love/Belonging, Esteem, Self Actualization
e. H
II. Hierarchy of Human Needs Satisfied by Jesus
a. Physiological- Jesus healed the BODY and SOUL because of the connection between the two.
i. God has provided for all our needs. Sin keeps people in want. We live in a world of plenty dwelling in a land of want in the midst of people in need. The Body of Christ
ii. Jesus feeding the Five Thousand- 16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."- Two Fish/ Five Loaves
iii. Do not be anxious.
iv. Philippians 4- 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
b. Safety- the Christian life is not safe, but it is secure.
i. Psalm 23:6- Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
ii. 2 Corinthians 4:16- Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
iii. Romans 8- 31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."[l] 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[m] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
iv. 2 Corinthians 4- 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
c. Love/Belonging
i. NEW FAMILY- Matthew 12:50- For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother
ii. NEW COMMUNITY- Romans 12:5- 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
iii. NEW HOME- John 14:2- In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.
d. Esteem- respect, confidence, achievement
i. We all want to know that what we do has worth and achieves a lasting purpose (legacy)
ii. Matthew 6: 19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
iii. Matthew 25:14-30- The Parables of the talent.
iv. When was the last time you asked God what he wanted for your life?
e. Self-Actualization- Purpose
i. Philippians 3:7-14
John 6:25-59
I. Jesus satisfies EVERY human need.
a. Manna from heaven met the Israelites needs, but they became bored with it and hungry again
b. Jesus is the bread of life that SATISFIES every human need because he has come from the Father who knows what we need before we ask
c. Daily Bread- daily we need to come to Jesus who is the source of our life
d. Abraham Maslow- American Psychologist- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs- Physiological, Safety, Love/Belonging, Esteem, Self Actualization
e. H
II. Hierarchy of Human Needs Satisfied by Jesus
a. Physiological- Jesus healed the BODY and SOUL because of the connection between the two.
i. God has provided for all our needs. Sin keeps people in want. We live in a world of plenty dwelling in a land of want in the midst of people in need. The Body of Christ
ii. Jesus feeding the Five Thousand- 16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."- Two Fish/ Five Loaves
iii. Do not be anxious.
iv. Philippians 4- 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
b. Safety- the Christian life is not safe, but it is secure.
i. Psalm 23:6- Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
ii. 2 Corinthians 4:16- Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
iii. Romans 8- 31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."[l] 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[m] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
iv. 2 Corinthians 4- 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
c. Love/Belonging
i. NEW FAMILY- Matthew 12:50- For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother
ii. NEW COMMUNITY- Romans 12:5- 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
iii. NEW HOME- John 14:2- In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.
d. Esteem- respect, confidence, achievement
i. We all want to know that what we do has worth and achieves a lasting purpose (legacy)
ii. Matthew 6: 19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
iii. Matthew 25:14-30- The Parables of the talent.
iv. When was the last time you asked God what he wanted for your life?
e. Self-Actualization- Purpose
i. Philippians 3:7-14
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