***God's love is eternal
***Why has God kept His hand on us?
John 20:21 - "Again Jesus said, 'Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.'"
***The Father had a purpose for sending Jesus to earth
***The coming of Christ was very costly
***The prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane shows us that Jesus' death was not His will, but the Father's will
***For Jesus to do the will of the Father meant sacrifice for everyone that was dear to Him
Philippians 2:5-11 - "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
***The Father sent Jesus...Jesus now sends us
Luke 18:18-30 - "A certain ruler asked him, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.'"
"All these I have kept since I was a boy," he said.
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was a man of great wealth. Jesus looked at him and said, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Those who heard this asked, "Who then can be saved?"
Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Peter said to him, "We have left all we had to follow you!"
"I tell you the truth," Jesus said to them, "no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life."
***The cost of discipleship cannot compare to the reward of eternal life
***There are two words that can't be said together...'No Lord.'
Hebrews 12:1-3 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let 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. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
***Have you taken account of your life this year? What do you sense that God may require of you as you head into the new year?
***Satan will try to bring discouragement by telling you the cost of obedience, but he will never tell you the cost of disobedience....(LOVED THIS!)
***Can people see eternity in your eyes?
***Are those watching your life convinced that eternity is real?
***Choose today to live your life for eternity.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Promise of Christmas
This past Sunday morning (Dec 21), Pastor Mel preached what I believe was the best sermon on the Christmas story that I have ever heard. Following are the notes:
The Promise of Christmas
Matthew 1:18-25
Matthew 1:18-25 - "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel" which means, "God with us." When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. "
***God loves the impossible - That is when He does His best work!
***Verse 22 is talking about the prophet Isaiah: "Now all this took place that the prophecy (of Isaiah) would be fulfilled."
***The prophecy and its fulfillment are both from God - God spoke through Isaiah 700 years earlier.
***God always keeps His promises.
***God had a sovereign promise to fulfill through Mary.
Isaiah 6:1-8 - Isaiah's Commission - "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty." Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."
Isaiah 9:6-7 -
Of the increase of his government and peace
The Promise of Christmas
Matthew 1:18-25
Matthew 1:18-25 - "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel" which means, "God with us." When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. "
***God loves the impossible - That is when He does His best work!
***Verse 22 is talking about the prophet Isaiah: "Now all this took place that the prophecy (of Isaiah) would be fulfilled."
***The prophecy and its fulfillment are both from God - God spoke through Isaiah 700 years earlier.
***God always keeps His promises.
***God had a sovereign promise to fulfill through Mary.
Isaiah 6:1-8 - Isaiah's Commission - "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty." Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."
Isaiah 9:6-7 -
"For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace
there will be no end.
He will reign on David's throne
and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the LORD Almighty
will accomplish this."
Luke 1:34-38 - ""How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her."
***And Mary was amazed - She'd studied the scriptures and now realized Isaiah was talking about HER! (W - O - W!!!)
***Mary's assignment is not so different from ours because God has chosen each of us for an assignment.
***God knows your name and had a sovereign plan for your life. He is bringing about circumstances that you may hear and obey Him.
***Security does not mean isolation from all pain, but it means confidence in God's purpose and will.
***As long as you remain in His hands, God can do anything in your life. He is the same God to you as He was to Mary!
***No matter what your circumstances, choose to remain in the hands of God and trust Him.
***There may be times you feel ill-equipped and all alone, but God shows up and tells you not to worry...He has a plan.
***What has been written in heaven regarding your life?
This really was an excellent sermon to me. I absolutely LOVE the way Pastor Mel brings new eyes to things I've known in my mind for years, like this Christmas story. They are certainly very sobering thoughts! While I knew Mary realized what a miracle Jesus' birth was, I had never thought about the fact that Mary had studied the scriptures herself and what it must have been like for her to realize in the moment that the angel spoke to her that SHE would be the one all this would be fulfilled through. Can you imagine what a sobering realization that must have been for her? That thought has been on my mind all week. I really just can't even imagine!
This really was an excellent sermon to me. I absolutely LOVE the way Pastor Mel brings new eyes to things I've known in my mind for years, like this Christmas story. They are certainly very sobering thoughts! While I knew Mary realized what a miracle Jesus' birth was, I had never thought about the fact that Mary had studied the scriptures herself and what it must have been like for her to realize in the moment that the angel spoke to her that SHE would be the one all this would be fulfilled through. Can you imagine what a sobering realization that must have been for her? That thought has been on my mind all week. I really just can't even imagine!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Commandment # 10 - 'Finding Contentment'
Following are the notes on the 10th Commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#10 - FINDING CONTENTMENT
Exodus 20:17
Exodus 20:17 - "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
***Everything God promised is found in putting God first. Everything God promised can be destroyed by putting 'Me' first.
***The 10th Commandment is about finding contentment.
***Self-centeredness always leads to self-pity.
*** To be content in life is not to possess good self-confidence, but to have absolute confidence in God.
***When we say we are not content, we are saying that God is not enough.
1Timothy 6:6-10 - "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."
Psalm 73:25 - "Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you."
***The greatness of Christianity is not simply the blessings that come, but the relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
***The 10 Commandments are given under the premise that we want to belong and that we have made a committment to God and to one another.
***When you find Jesus Christ, you will find contentment in life.
#10 - FINDING CONTENTMENT
Exodus 20:17
Exodus 20:17 - "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
***Everything God promised is found in putting God first. Everything God promised can be destroyed by putting 'Me' first.
***The 10th Commandment is about finding contentment.
***Self-centeredness always leads to self-pity.
*** To be content in life is not to possess good self-confidence, but to have absolute confidence in God.
***When we say we are not content, we are saying that God is not enough.
1Timothy 6:6-10 - "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."
Psalm 73:25 - "Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you."
***The greatness of Christianity is not simply the blessings that come, but the relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
***The 10 Commandments are given under the premise that we want to belong and that we have made a committment to God and to one another.
***When you find Jesus Christ, you will find contentment in life.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Commandment # 9 - 'The Power of Words'
The week away at my mom's got me behind on my sermon notes. I've got the CD for hte 8th sermon, but haven't sat down to listen to it where I can take notes. I will do that very soon, but following are the notes from November 30's sermon regarding the ninth commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#9 - THE POWER OF WORDS
Exodus 20:16
Exodus 20:16 - "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor."
Pastor Mel started out by telling a story about a man named Alexander Papaderos. The story is too long to recount here, but I found it on the internet and if you are interested, you can go HERE to read it. It is a great answer to the question, 'What is the meaning of life?'
***Are you reflecting the light of Christ into the world in which you live?
***As we walk in this world, it sees the light of God reflected in our eyes.
***Don't give evidence that would injure the reputation of another person.
***The sin of silence is as powerful as the sin of lying lips.
***We need integrity in our words. We need to be speaking truth at all times.
***When people think of your life, what is the first thing that comes to mind?
***We build integrity by the way we live our life.
***God is truth and if we are to reflect Him to a watching world, we must be truthful in the way we live.
***Because God is truth, we can stand on His word with confidence.
***Our lives will be vindicated when we trust in God's word.
***As a Christian, our integrity is a powerful tool to a watching world.
***Our words have the power to build up or tear down.
***God is watching the way we regard others...do we build them up?
Proverbs 4:24 - "Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips."
Jeremiah 17:9 - "The heart is deceitful and above all things beyond cure. Who can understand it?"
***Sin has damaged our heart and we have a self-centered nature that wants to build ourselves up and tear others down.
***To obey this commandment, we need to control our tongue.
***If you are walking with God, you won't be shaken by hurtful words. We know the truth and keep silent knowing we will be vindicated.
***Knowing the power of words, are you willing to let someone else hold you accountable for them?
***Ask the Holy Spirit to help you hold your tongue.
***Obey the Holy Spirit even if this means awkward silence.
***Ask the Holy Spirit to take away your anger and fill you with joy.
***Ask the Holy Spirit to help you encourage others. Speak words they need to hear.
***If you allow the world to taint you, how in the world will God use you to be a light to others?
***Your life can be of such upstanding nature that God can use you to speak truth to set others free!
This was a great sermon and I took 2.5 pages of notes! WOW! Such wisdom.
#9 - THE POWER OF WORDS
Exodus 20:16
Exodus 20:16 - "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor."
Pastor Mel started out by telling a story about a man named Alexander Papaderos. The story is too long to recount here, but I found it on the internet and if you are interested, you can go HERE to read it. It is a great answer to the question, 'What is the meaning of life?'
***Are you reflecting the light of Christ into the world in which you live?
***As we walk in this world, it sees the light of God reflected in our eyes.
***Don't give evidence that would injure the reputation of another person.
***The sin of silence is as powerful as the sin of lying lips.
***We need integrity in our words. We need to be speaking truth at all times.
***When people think of your life, what is the first thing that comes to mind?
***We build integrity by the way we live our life.
***God is truth and if we are to reflect Him to a watching world, we must be truthful in the way we live.
***Because God is truth, we can stand on His word with confidence.
***Our lives will be vindicated when we trust in God's word.
***As a Christian, our integrity is a powerful tool to a watching world.
***Our words have the power to build up or tear down.
***God is watching the way we regard others...do we build them up?
Proverbs 4:24 - "Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips."
Jeremiah 17:9 - "The heart is deceitful and above all things beyond cure. Who can understand it?"
***Sin has damaged our heart and we have a self-centered nature that wants to build ourselves up and tear others down.
***To obey this commandment, we need to control our tongue.
***If you are walking with God, you won't be shaken by hurtful words. We know the truth and keep silent knowing we will be vindicated.
***Knowing the power of words, are you willing to let someone else hold you accountable for them?
***Ask the Holy Spirit to help you hold your tongue.
***Obey the Holy Spirit even if this means awkward silence.
***Ask the Holy Spirit to take away your anger and fill you with joy.
***Ask the Holy Spirit to help you encourage others. Speak words they need to hear.
***If you allow the world to taint you, how in the world will God use you to be a light to others?
***Your life can be of such upstanding nature that God can use you to speak truth to set others free!
This was a great sermon and I took 2.5 pages of notes! WOW! Such wisdom.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Commandment # 7 - 'Fire Always Burns'
Following are the notes from this past Sunday morning's sermon regarding the seventh commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#7 - FIRE ALWAYS BURNS
Exodus 20:14
Exodus 20:14 - "You shall not commit adultery."
***The 10 commandments are like a fence God has constructed for our freedom. They protect us from things in the world that will (and can) destroy us.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 - "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God."
Matthew 5:27-28 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
***This commandment is dealing with the condition of your heart.
***Our actions start as a seed in the heart - and the seed is the same essence as the fully developed plant.
***The heart controls the life.
***God is concerned about your heart. It is either given to Him or to self.
***You are free to choose evil, but you are not free to choose the consequences.
Malachi 2:14-15 - "You ask, "Why?" It is because the LORD is acting as the witness between you and the wife of your youth, because you have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant. Has not the LORD made them one? In flesh and spirit they are his. And why one? Because he was seeking godly offspring. So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth."
Galatians 5:7-8 - "You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you."
***Fire always burns. Adultery always causes pain and brokenness.
1 Corinthians 10:12 - "So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!"
***Unguarded strength is a deceptive place to be.
1 Corinthians6:9-11 - "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."
***There is forgiveness IF you choose to repent, but there are consequences that may never be removed.
***It is foolish to think that pre-meditated sin is not going to cause destruction.
***No matter how great our sin, God's grace is greater.
***God brings conviction so we can correct the relationship.
***God's power over sin is our only hope to find victory in life.
***God established a fence for your protection.
#7 - FIRE ALWAYS BURNS
Exodus 20:14
Exodus 20:14 - "You shall not commit adultery."
***The 10 commandments are like a fence God has constructed for our freedom. They protect us from things in the world that will (and can) destroy us.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 - "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God."
Matthew 5:27-28 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
***This commandment is dealing with the condition of your heart.
***Our actions start as a seed in the heart - and the seed is the same essence as the fully developed plant.
***The heart controls the life.
***God is concerned about your heart. It is either given to Him or to self.
***You are free to choose evil, but you are not free to choose the consequences.
Malachi 2:14-15 - "You ask, "Why?" It is because the LORD is acting as the witness between you and the wife of your youth, because you have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant. Has not the LORD made them one? In flesh and spirit they are his. And why one? Because he was seeking godly offspring. So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth."
Galatians 5:7-8 - "You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you."
***Fire always burns. Adultery always causes pain and brokenness.
1 Corinthians 10:12 - "So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!"
***Unguarded strength is a deceptive place to be.
1 Corinthians6:9-11 - "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."
***There is forgiveness IF you choose to repent, but there are consequences that may never be removed.
***It is foolish to think that pre-meditated sin is not going to cause destruction.
***No matter how great our sin, God's grace is greater.
***God brings conviction so we can correct the relationship.
***God's power over sin is our only hope to find victory in life.
***God established a fence for your protection.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Commandment # 6 - 'Respecting Life and Extending Grace'
Following are the notes from this past Sunday morning's excellent sermon regarding the sixth commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#6 - RESPECTING LIFE AND EXTENDING GRACE
Exodus 20:13
Exodus 20:13 - "You shall not murder."
***The commandments move forward through 3 areas: God (commandments 1-4), family (commandment 5) and relationships (commandments 6-10).
***The seed is the same essence as the plant, just in a different form. (The difference between hate and murder).
***God is saying that another person's life has value. Do not take it into your own hands.
***Every person has a soul and no matter what they have done, we need to treat them as God would have us to treat them.
***Your words, and your silence, can destroy a person.
***Does your life encourage others or cause them pain?
Romans 13: 9-10 - "The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."
***Light and darkness (love and hatred) cannot co-exist in the same place.
***It is always your turn to right a wrong with another. It is always your turn to obey God and make things right.
***You can easily tell those who are walking in a love relationship with God. They love others.
***No matter what happens TO you, you control what happens IN you.
***When someone puts you to the test (treats you wrong), will you pass the test of your heart?
Matthew 5: 44-45 - "But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
***The 6th commandment is about respecting life.
***Your actions and words reflect the condition of your heart.
***Does your heart prove that you've been born again?
***There is nothing like a clear conscience. It is priceless and worth more than money can buy.
#6 - RESPECTING LIFE AND EXTENDING GRACE
Exodus 20:13
Exodus 20:13 - "You shall not murder."
***The commandments move forward through 3 areas: God (commandments 1-4), family (commandment 5) and relationships (commandments 6-10).
***The seed is the same essence as the plant, just in a different form. (The difference between hate and murder).
***God is saying that another person's life has value. Do not take it into your own hands.
***Every person has a soul and no matter what they have done, we need to treat them as God would have us to treat them.
***Your words, and your silence, can destroy a person.
***Does your life encourage others or cause them pain?
Romans 13: 9-10 - "The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."
***Light and darkness (love and hatred) cannot co-exist in the same place.
***It is always your turn to right a wrong with another. It is always your turn to obey God and make things right.
***You can easily tell those who are walking in a love relationship with God. They love others.
***No matter what happens TO you, you control what happens IN you.
***When someone puts you to the test (treats you wrong), will you pass the test of your heart?
Matthew 5: 44-45 - "But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
***The 6th commandment is about respecting life.
***Your actions and words reflect the condition of your heart.
***Does your heart prove that you've been born again?
***There is nothing like a clear conscience. It is priceless and worth more than money can buy.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Commandment # 5 - 'Honor and Blessing'
Following are the notes from this past Sunday morning's sermon regarding the fifth commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#5 - HONOR AND BLESSING
Exodus 20:12
Exodus 20:12- "Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you."
***The danger of losing the fear of God is that we become wise in our own eyes.
***Wisdom is a by-product of our trust in Almighty God.
***Parents are the keepers of God's covenant...children will follow behind and someday enter into the same covenant. Do your children see the commandments of God in you? Is God 1st place?
***Is your life a demonstration of the goodness of God?
***If your children were going to honor God by looking at your life, would they know what to do?
***The 5th commandment is the only one with a promise attached to it. "I will bless your life and take care of you."
***God put you in your family and your father and mother are to be honored for who they are.
***How do you honor an ungodly parent? --forgive them--be kind to them--pray for them
***To honor does not mean that you approve of that which is evil.
***God's ways are not man's ways. They do not always make sense.
Matthew 5:38-48 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
***Giving honor to your parents will bring God's blessing upon your life.
***The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
#5 - HONOR AND BLESSING
Exodus 20:12
Exodus 20:12- "Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you."
***The danger of losing the fear of God is that we become wise in our own eyes.
***Wisdom is a by-product of our trust in Almighty God.
***Parents are the keepers of God's covenant...children will follow behind and someday enter into the same covenant. Do your children see the commandments of God in you? Is God 1st place?
***Is your life a demonstration of the goodness of God?
***If your children were going to honor God by looking at your life, would they know what to do?
***The 5th commandment is the only one with a promise attached to it. "I will bless your life and take care of you."
***God put you in your family and your father and mother are to be honored for who they are.
***How do you honor an ungodly parent? --forgive them--be kind to them--pray for them
***To honor does not mean that you approve of that which is evil.
***God's ways are not man's ways. They do not always make sense.
Matthew 5:38-48 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
***Giving honor to your parents will bring God's blessing upon your life.
***The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Commandment # 4 - 'Take Time'
Following are the notes from this past Sunday morning's sermon regarding the fourth commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#4 - TAKE TIME
Exodus 20:8-11
Exodus 20:8-11 - "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
***Rest is important....but HOW you rest determines how you are renewed and strengthened.
***A restless heart usually leads to a reckless life.
***The force and power of this commandment lies not in the resting, but in the sanctifying.
***The Sabbath is unique and special.
***Keeping the Sabbath holy uniquely identifies Christians as holy unto God.
***You need a day of rest. In God's eyes, a day of rest is just as important as a day of work.
***You need a day of corporate worship. It is holy unto HIM, not holy unto US.
***You need a day to give time to a personal love relationship with God.
#4 - TAKE TIME
Exodus 20:8-11
Exodus 20:8-11 - "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
***Rest is important....but HOW you rest determines how you are renewed and strengthened.
***A restless heart usually leads to a reckless life.
***The force and power of this commandment lies not in the resting, but in the sanctifying.
***The Sabbath is unique and special.
***Keeping the Sabbath holy uniquely identifies Christians as holy unto God.
***You need a day of rest. In God's eyes, a day of rest is just as important as a day of work.
***You need a day of corporate worship. It is holy unto HIM, not holy unto US.
***You need a day to give time to a personal love relationship with God.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Commandment # 3 - 'There is Power in the Name'
Following are the notes from this past Sunday morning's sermon regarding the third commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#3 - There is Power in the Name
Exodus 20:7
Exodus 20:7 - ""You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name."
***When we make a choice to enter into a relatinship with God, we also accept the terms of the covenant.
***Make no mistake: There is power int the name of God.
Acts 4:5 - 12 - "The next day the rulers, elders and teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and the other men of the high priest's family. They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: "By what power or what name did you do this?" Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
***The name of the Lord was indicative of His presence to act in their midst.
***To use God's name is to bring Him into the situation. When you use His name, He listens!
Matthew 12:36 - "But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken."
***Your words now reflect your fate later - they will either justify or condemn.
Acts 19:11 - 17 - "God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them. Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, "In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out." Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. (One day) the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding. When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor."
***The power of God's name is for those who know Him personally.
***What does it mean to use God's name in vain? to use it in a manner unworthy of His person.
***We are called to use God's name in a manner worthy of His person.
***Wants WANTS you to use His name and display His glory.
#3 - There is Power in the Name
Exodus 20:7
Exodus 20:7 - ""You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name."
***When we make a choice to enter into a relatinship with God, we also accept the terms of the covenant.
***Make no mistake: There is power int the name of God.
Acts 4:5 - 12 - "The next day the rulers, elders and teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and the other men of the high priest's family. They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: "By what power or what name did you do this?" Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
***The name of the Lord was indicative of His presence to act in their midst.
***To use God's name is to bring Him into the situation. When you use His name, He listens!
Matthew 12:36 - "But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken."
***Your words now reflect your fate later - they will either justify or condemn.
Acts 19:11 - 17 - "God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them. Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, "In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out." Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. (One day) the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding. When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor."
***The power of God's name is for those who know Him personally.
***What does it mean to use God's name in vain? to use it in a manner unworthy of His person.
***We are called to use God's name in a manner worthy of His person.
***Wants WANTS you to use His name and display His glory.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Commandment # 2 - 'Faithful and True'
Following are the notes from this past Sunday morning's sermon regarding the second commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten." I'm a little later posting them than usual, but it's been a good, yet busy, week.
#2 - Faithful and True
Exodus 20:4 - 6
Exodus 20:4 - 6 - "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments."
***God desires an exclusive relationship with you that is real and personal.
***God does not dwell in objects and cannot be controlled by human manipulation.
***The second commandment tells us how to worship the true God. He comes directly to our lives where we are face to face with Him.
***We have access to the presence of Almighty God and He invites us to come.
***There are many people who would like to perform a ritual to Him rather than to walk with Him.
***God is not after your money, your abilities or your gifts. He wants YOU.
***To seek after that which is empty will leave you empty.
Psalm 135:15 - 18 -
***He leaves you free to choose whatever you desire, but you are not free to choose the consequences.
***Those who struggle with the second commandment are those who are captivated by the world around them.
1 John 2:15 - "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him."
***Here's a good question to ask kids: 'What is the most important thing you see in mom and dad's life?' It takes courage to ask that kind of question to kids or anyone you are close to.
***When you give up everything for God, He gives back everything you need for abundant life.
***Let Him have His way in your life and you will experience a love relationship like you have never experienced before.
#2 - Faithful and True
Exodus 20:4 - 6
Exodus 20:4 - 6 - "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments."
***God desires an exclusive relationship with you that is real and personal.
***God does not dwell in objects and cannot be controlled by human manipulation.
***The second commandment tells us how to worship the true God. He comes directly to our lives where we are face to face with Him.
***We have access to the presence of Almighty God and He invites us to come.
***There are many people who would like to perform a ritual to Him rather than to walk with Him.
***God is not after your money, your abilities or your gifts. He wants YOU.
***To seek after that which is empty will leave you empty.
Psalm 135:15 - 18 -
The idols of the nations are silver and gold,
made by the hands of men. They have mouths, but cannot speak,
eyes, but they cannot see; they have ears, but cannot hear,
nor is there breath in their mouths. Those who make them will be like them,
and so will all who trust in them.
***He leaves you free to choose whatever you desire, but you are not free to choose the consequences.
***Those who struggle with the second commandment are those who are captivated by the world around them.
1 John 2:15 - "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him."
***Here's a good question to ask kids: 'What is the most important thing you see in mom and dad's life?' It takes courage to ask that kind of question to kids or anyone you are close to.
***When you give up everything for God, He gives back everything you need for abundant life.
***Let Him have His way in your life and you will experience a love relationship like you have never experienced before.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Commandment # 1 - 'First Place'
Following are the notes from this morning's sermon regarding the first commandment, from the sermon series, "Living Life to the Power of Ten."
#1 - First PlaceExodus 20:3; Matthew 22:37-38
Exodus 20:3 - "You shall have no other gods before me."
Matthew 22:37-38 -"Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment."
***God loves you and is inviting you into a personal relationship that lasts for all eternity.
***God is not looking for first place in your heart -- He wants your whole heart.
***If you don't understand the first commandment to love Him (He's desiring to be YOUR god), all the others turn into a bunch of rules.
***God is not interested in you being happy; He is interested in you being holy.
***He will allow things into your life to shape and mold you into the person He has called you to be.
***To obey this commandment means you will live with confident expectation that God is in control.
***Worry is the warning light that tells us we don't understand the first commandment.
***He is telling us, "I want to be something you cannot find in any other relationship -- I want to be GOD." (the God who cares for your life)
***What we don't turn over to him takes control and eats away at our life.
***When you try and take control of what rightfully belongs to God, you also take all the responsibility for its outcome.
***The best thing for your life is to surrender it to Him.
***Does God have your whole heart?
***Is He the 1st person you turn to?
We are very blessed to have a pastor who makes us think like this and keeps us mindful of these things with such thought provoking points. Isn't it amazing how so many of these are things that we know, but don't always stop to think about or do on a daily basis?
#1 - First PlaceExodus 20:3; Matthew 22:37-38
Exodus 20:3 - "You shall have no other gods before me."
Matthew 22:37-38 -"Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment."
***God loves you and is inviting you into a personal relationship that lasts for all eternity.
***God is not looking for first place in your heart -- He wants your whole heart.
***If you don't understand the first commandment to love Him (He's desiring to be YOUR god), all the others turn into a bunch of rules.
***God is not interested in you being happy; He is interested in you being holy.
***He will allow things into your life to shape and mold you into the person He has called you to be.
***To obey this commandment means you will live with confident expectation that God is in control.
***Worry is the warning light that tells us we don't understand the first commandment.
***He is telling us, "I want to be something you cannot find in any other relationship -- I want to be GOD." (the God who cares for your life)
***What we don't turn over to him takes control and eats away at our life.
***When you try and take control of what rightfully belongs to God, you also take all the responsibility for its outcome.
***The best thing for your life is to surrender it to Him.
***Does God have your whole heart?
***Is He the 1st person you turn to?
We are very blessed to have a pastor who makes us think like this and keeps us mindful of these things with such thought provoking points. Isn't it amazing how so many of these are things that we know, but don't always stop to think about or do on a daily basis?
Monday, September 29, 2008
Money
With all the talk about the economy right now, our pastor felt led to change his sermon yesterday (Sept 28)...we'll be back to the 10 Commandments next week, but for now, the topic is money, from a sermon series titled, Where Your Treasure Is:
Worship Through Giving
2 Cor 9:6-8
'Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And 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.'
***Our response to God's goodness is an act of worship.
***We are not to just receive good things from God -- we are here to give to God as an act of worship.
***God has a law of identical harvest. Gal 6:7 - 'Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.'
***God acts toward us in unconditional love, but not unconditional blessing -- blessings come as a response to our obedience (!!)
Malachi 3:7-10 - 'Ever since the time of your forefathers you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you," says the LORD Almighty. "But you ask, 'How are we to return?'
"Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me.
"But you ask, 'How do we rob you?'
"In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.'
***When you understand God's perspective on money, you will be set free.
***Tithing is not giving a gift to God, it is giving back to God what is already His.
***Anything less than a tithe is not a tithe.
***Tithing is an act of worship where we sacrifice what is precious to us.
***If you can't afford to tithe when you are poor, you will never tithe when you are rich.
***Our use of money reflects our heart.
***He is not asking for the 'extra.' He is waiting to see if we love Him enough to sacrifice what is dear to us.
***There is nothing more frustrating to God than to see His people receive immeasurable blessing from Him, then be stingy with what they receive.
Then, one of the last things he said, was 'How can we be mad at the people on Wall Street, etc if we are also not doing what we are supposed to be doing in our giving to God??'
Food for thought.
Worship Through Giving
2 Cor 9:6-8
'Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And 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.'
***Our response to God's goodness is an act of worship.
***We are not to just receive good things from God -- we are here to give to God as an act of worship.
***God has a law of identical harvest. Gal 6:7 - 'Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.'
***God acts toward us in unconditional love, but not unconditional blessing -- blessings come as a response to our obedience (!!)
Malachi 3:7-10 - 'Ever since the time of your forefathers you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you," says the LORD Almighty. "But you ask, 'How are we to return?'
"Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me.
"But you ask, 'How do we rob you?'
"In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.'
***When you understand God's perspective on money, you will be set free.
***Tithing is not giving a gift to God, it is giving back to God what is already His.
***Anything less than a tithe is not a tithe.
***Tithing is an act of worship where we sacrifice what is precious to us.
***If you can't afford to tithe when you are poor, you will never tithe when you are rich.
***Our use of money reflects our heart.
***He is not asking for the 'extra.' He is waiting to see if we love Him enough to sacrifice what is dear to us.
***There is nothing more frustrating to God than to see His people receive immeasurable blessing from Him, then be stingy with what they receive.
Then, one of the last things he said, was 'How can we be mad at the people on Wall Street, etc if we are also not doing what we are supposed to be doing in our giving to God??'
Food for thought.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
New Series - The Introduction - Living in the Father's House
We started a new sermon series on Sunday (Sept 21) titled, 'The Power of Ten,' based on the Ten Commandments:
"Living in the Father's House"
Exodus 19:3-6; 16-19
Exodus 19:3-6 - Then Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, "This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 'You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you [will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites."
Exodus 19:16-19 - On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled. Then Moses led the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. Mount Sinai was covered with smoke, because the LORD descended on it in fire. The smoke billowed up from it like smoke from a furnace, the whole mountain trembled violently, and the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder. Then Moses spoke and the voice of God answered him.
***What was God's intent in giving the 10 Commandments? To guide us to have the best life possible in a coventant relationship with Him.
***The 10 Commandments were not given to the world, but to those in a love relationship with Him.
***The 10 Commandments came from a heart of love, but were delivered with absolute firmness.
***The 10 Commandments were delivered in such a way as to instill fear, in order that all would hear and obey.
***The 10 Commandments were delivered in sternness because God saw people wandering off in ways that were not good for them.
Ezekiel 33:11 - Say to them,"As surely as I live declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?"
***Because God loves us, He has given us specific instruction to live in harmony with Him.
Exodus 20:1-17 - The 10 Commandments:
1 And God spoke all these words:
2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
3 "You shall have no other gods before me.
4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.
7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
13 "You shall not murder.
14 "You shall not commit adultery.
15 "You shall not steal.
16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
The Power of Ten puts you in a position:
-- to reflect God's character to a watching world
-- to know God
-- to experience God's blessing
"Living in the Father's House"
Exodus 19:3-6; 16-19
Exodus 19:3-6 - Then Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, "This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 'You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you [will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites."
Exodus 19:16-19 - On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled. Then Moses led the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. Mount Sinai was covered with smoke, because the LORD descended on it in fire. The smoke billowed up from it like smoke from a furnace, the whole mountain trembled violently, and the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder. Then Moses spoke and the voice of God answered him.
***What was God's intent in giving the 10 Commandments? To guide us to have the best life possible in a coventant relationship with Him.
***The 10 Commandments were not given to the world, but to those in a love relationship with Him.
***The 10 Commandments came from a heart of love, but were delivered with absolute firmness.
***The 10 Commandments were delivered in such a way as to instill fear, in order that all would hear and obey.
***The 10 Commandments were delivered in sternness because God saw people wandering off in ways that were not good for them.
Ezekiel 33:11 - Say to them,"As surely as I live declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?"
***Because God loves us, He has given us specific instruction to live in harmony with Him.
Exodus 20:1-17 - The 10 Commandments:
1 And God spoke all these words:
2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
3 "You shall have no other gods before me.
4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.
7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
13 "You shall not murder.
14 "You shall not commit adultery.
15 "You shall not steal.
16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
The Power of Ten puts you in a position:
-- to reflect God's character to a watching world
-- to know God
-- to experience God's blessing
Sunday, September 14, 2008
The Cry of My Heart
Matthew 1:18-25
Matthew 1:18-25 - "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."
***The Heavenly Father hears the cry of His people.
***The gospel story is not just the invention of God, but the incarnation of God.
***God is looking for His children.
***God hears your cry if you are a child of His and you cry out to Him. Do you know how to cry out to God?
***Crying out to God has to do with your heart and you cannot fake your heart. You can't fake being desperate -- either you are or you aren't. Ask God to "Show me what I look like thru your eyes."
***Are you a child of God? When was the last time you cried out to Him?
***Don't keep God at arm's length. Cry out to Him.
Matthew 1:18-25 - "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."
***The Heavenly Father hears the cry of His people.
***The gospel story is not just the invention of God, but the incarnation of God.
***God is looking for His children.
***God hears your cry if you are a child of His and you cry out to Him. Do you know how to cry out to God?
***Crying out to God has to do with your heart and you cannot fake your heart. You can't fake being desperate -- either you are or you aren't. Ask God to "Show me what I look like thru your eyes."
***Are you a child of God? When was the last time you cried out to Him?
***Don't keep God at arm's length. Cry out to Him.
Let's Talk
Acts 4:31
Acts 4:31 - "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly."
***Is Jesus someone you've met from afar or do you know him? Has He changed your life?
***Have you talked to the Lord lately?
***If we don't spend time with God and knowing Him, we do not need to be out in the world talking about Him.
***An encounter with God should be your normal daily experience - is it practical in real life?
***Prayer isn't a duty, it's the heart of your salvation. Can a person be saved who does not pray?Can a person be in love with Christ and never talk to Him? There are scores of people who believe in God, but never utter a word of prayer.
***Do you think God is worthy of your time? Does He deserve our best?
***Do you WANT to spend time with Him? Not that you HAVE to, do you WANT to?
***The most important part of your day is time spent with Him.
***The early church had nothing but God, and turned the world upside down.
***Boldness comes from the presence of God.
***Have you learned to talk to God?
***The greatest gift we have is our relationship with God, but sadly it's the one thing we most neglect.
***Do you give to God thinking He is impressed, or do you spend time with Him?
***Everything in your life is a by-product of your relationship to Christ.
***Do you ADMIRE God, or have you MET Him?
Acts 4:31 - "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly."
***Is Jesus someone you've met from afar or do you know him? Has He changed your life?
***Have you talked to the Lord lately?
***If we don't spend time with God and knowing Him, we do not need to be out in the world talking about Him.
***An encounter with God should be your normal daily experience - is it practical in real life?
***Prayer isn't a duty, it's the heart of your salvation. Can a person be saved who does not pray?Can a person be in love with Christ and never talk to Him? There are scores of people who believe in God, but never utter a word of prayer.
***Do you think God is worthy of your time? Does He deserve our best?
***Do you WANT to spend time with Him? Not that you HAVE to, do you WANT to?
***The most important part of your day is time spent with Him.
***The early church had nothing but God, and turned the world upside down.
***Boldness comes from the presence of God.
***Have you learned to talk to God?
***The greatest gift we have is our relationship with God, but sadly it's the one thing we most neglect.
***Do you give to God thinking He is impressed, or do you spend time with Him?
***Everything in your life is a by-product of your relationship to Christ.
***Do you ADMIRE God, or have you MET Him?
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The Pillar of Worship
Revelation 19:1-6
Revelation 19:1-6 - "After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are his judgments. He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants." And again they shouted: "Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever." The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne. And they cried: "Amen, Hallelujah!" Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!" Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
***Worship is a heart to heart encounter with the living God. What does worship mean? Why have we come?
***In worship, we learn to say, 'Yes, Lord,' 'so let it be in my life.' Trust Him -- from eternity's perspective, it is all going to be alright. True worship is the desire to know and accept the will of God.
***In worship, we commit ourselves to do the will of God. The will of God is not just something to be accepted; it is something to be asserted.
***In worship, we find the joy of our salvation. True worship is a testimony that the word of God is 'good news.'
***In worship, we find the assurance of victory - by looking to the past and seeing that the battle has already been won.
True worship finds its hope in the reality of Jesus Christ.
Revelation 19:1-6 - "After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are his judgments. He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants." And again they shouted: "Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever." The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne. And they cried: "Amen, Hallelujah!" Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!" Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
***Worship is a heart to heart encounter with the living God. What does worship mean? Why have we come?
***In worship, we learn to say, 'Yes, Lord,' 'so let it be in my life.' Trust Him -- from eternity's perspective, it is all going to be alright. True worship is the desire to know and accept the will of God.
***In worship, we commit ourselves to do the will of God. The will of God is not just something to be accepted; it is something to be asserted.
***In worship, we find the joy of our salvation. True worship is a testimony that the word of God is 'good news.'
***In worship, we find the assurance of victory - by looking to the past and seeing that the battle has already been won.
True worship finds its hope in the reality of Jesus Christ.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Loving Others
1 Peter 1:17-25 - "Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.
Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you."
***The storms of life are real and many people are just trying to survive.
***If you call yourself a Christian, God hears you.
***Your salvation cost the precious blood of Christ.
***You can love one another because God first loved you.
***Put aside excuses and care for one another -- find a way to bring joy to another.
***Do you say you love people or do you love them? Do you look for ways to bring joy to another? What would it be like if every believer were kind to one another?
John 13:3 - "It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"
Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."
"Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"
Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.
When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."
***People who are confident in their salvation have no trouble serving.
***We live in a tough world and people need a family to love them.
***Ask God to give you someone to love this week.
Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you."
***The storms of life are real and many people are just trying to survive.
***If you call yourself a Christian, God hears you.
***Your salvation cost the precious blood of Christ.
***You can love one another because God first loved you.
***Put aside excuses and care for one another -- find a way to bring joy to another.
***Do you say you love people or do you love them? Do you look for ways to bring joy to another? What would it be like if every believer were kind to one another?
John 13:3 - "It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"
Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."
"Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"
Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.
When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."
***People who are confident in their salvation have no trouble serving.
***We live in a tough world and people need a family to love them.
***Ask God to give you someone to love this week.
The Pillar of God's Word
Isaiah 66:1-2; Acts 6:1-7
Isaiah 66:1-2 -
2 Has not my hand made all these things,
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith."
***Time given to study the Bible is not an academic experience; it is an encounter with God.
***There is only one way to honor God - OBEDIENCE.
***Your study of God's word is (1) a decision to live in the presence of God, (2) a decision to know the will of God, (3) a decision to join the (I missed this word..maybe community) of God.
Scripture reference:Luke 22:39 - Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him.
***More than He feared the cup, Jesus loved the hand from which it came.
***It is only when you have confidence in the relationship that you will have the confidence to obey.
***Obedience is discovered when it costs something - Love is revealed when it hurts.
***Strength is not found in how courageously I struggle, but how completely I surrender.
***If you don't spend time in God's word, you will not know him; If you don't know him, you won't love him; if you don't love him, you won't obey him.
***How you honor God's word, you honor Him.
Isaiah 66:1-2 -
"This is what the LORD says:
"Heaven is my throne,
and the earth is my footstool.
Where is the house you will build for me?
Where will my resting place be?
2 Has not my hand made all these things,
and so they came into being?"
declares the LORD.
"This is the one I esteem:
he who is humble and contrite in spirit,
and trembles at my word.
Acts 6:1-7 - "In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word." This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith."
***Time given to study the Bible is not an academic experience; it is an encounter with God.
***There is only one way to honor God - OBEDIENCE.
***Your study of God's word is (1) a decision to live in the presence of God, (2) a decision to know the will of God, (3) a decision to join the (I missed this word..maybe community) of God.
Scripture reference:Luke 22:39 - Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him.
***More than He feared the cup, Jesus loved the hand from which it came.
***It is only when you have confidence in the relationship that you will have the confidence to obey.
***Obedience is discovered when it costs something - Love is revealed when it hurts.
***Strength is not found in how courageously I struggle, but how completely I surrender.
***If you don't spend time in God's word, you will not know him; If you don't know him, you won't love him; if you don't love him, you won't obey him.
***How you honor God's word, you honor Him.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
The Reality of Eternity
Matthew 25
***Sacrifice is a matter of perspective. Are you seeing your life from God's perspective?
***Evaluate your life and make adjustments to what God has just said -- He only reveals Himself to those He is abou to use!
***The world does not need to merely hear the good news, they need to see it --
James 2:14-20 - "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?
***God does not reward the great theologians - He rewards those who do what He says
***Time is short and eternity is long. Do you have eyes for eternity?
***When your spiritual eyes are in focus, eternity is the backdrop of all you see.
***To invest in eternity is to invest in people.
***To invest in eternity is to partner with Jesus.
***To invest in eternity is to receive eternal rewards.
***Sacrifice is a matter of perspective. Are you seeing your life from God's perspective?
***Evaluate your life and make adjustments to what God has just said -- He only reveals Himself to those He is abou to use!
***The world does not need to merely hear the good news, they need to see it --
James 2:14-20 - "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?
***God does not reward the great theologians - He rewards those who do what He says
***Time is short and eternity is long. Do you have eyes for eternity?
***When your spiritual eyes are in focus, eternity is the backdrop of all you see.
***To invest in eternity is to invest in people.
***To invest in eternity is to partner with Jesus.
***To invest in eternity is to receive eternal rewards.
The Pillar of Prayer
Acts 6:1-7
Acts 6:1-7 - "In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith."
Pillars of a church God can use:
--Prayer
--God's word
--Worship
***You cannot understand the ways or purposes of God unless you spend time with God.
***The mighty activity of God in history has come through fervent, united prayer among God's people.
Acts 2:42 - They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Acts 4:31 - After they had prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly
Acts 12:5 - So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
***The work of the kingdom is not done by our ability, but by God's power.
***The early church had nothing but God and they turned the world upside down.
***If we lose our sense of desperation for God, we are in trouble.
***Prayer is a clear reflection of your relationship with God.
Acts 6:1-7 - "In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith."
Pillars of a church God can use:
--Prayer
--God's word
--Worship
***You cannot understand the ways or purposes of God unless you spend time with God.
***The mighty activity of God in history has come through fervent, united prayer among God's people.
Acts 2:42 - They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Acts 4:31 - After they had prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly
Acts 12:5 - So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
***The work of the kingdom is not done by our ability, but by God's power.
***The early church had nothing but God and they turned the world upside down.
***If we lose our sense of desperation for God, we are in trouble.
***Prayer is a clear reflection of your relationship with God.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
The Wonders of Tomorrow
Joshua 3:1-7
Joshua 3:1-7 - "Early in the morning Joshua and all the Israelites set out from Shittim and went to the Jordan, where they camped before crossing over. After three days the officers went throughout the camp, giving orders to the people: "When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, who are Levites, carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about a thousand yards between you and the ark; do not go near it."
Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
Joshua said to the priests, "Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses."
***Keep your eyes focused on God's activity.
***If you want to see the wonders of tomorrow, prepare yourself today.
Joshua 3:5 - 'Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you."
Isaiah 55:8-9 - "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight."
Jeremiah 33:2-3 - "This is what the Lord says, he who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it - the Lord is his name. Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things that you do not know."
Hebrews 2:3 - 'how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation?'
***Everything God does in our life and in our church is thru relationship...not religious activity***
Joshua 3:1-7 - "Early in the morning Joshua and all the Israelites set out from Shittim and went to the Jordan, where they camped before crossing over. After three days the officers went throughout the camp, giving orders to the people: "When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, who are Levites, carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about a thousand yards between you and the ark; do not go near it."
Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
Joshua said to the priests, "Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses."
***Keep your eyes focused on God's activity.
***If you want to see the wonders of tomorrow, prepare yourself today.
Joshua 3:5 - 'Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you."
Isaiah 55:8-9 - "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight."
Jeremiah 33:2-3 - "This is what the Lord says, he who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it - the Lord is his name. Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things that you do not know."
Hebrews 2:3 - 'how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation?'
***Everything God does in our life and in our church is thru relationship...not religious activity***
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