. (432 found)
Power of Gratitude - Uncommon Peace What enables us to have such uncommon peace? - Commonality
- Relationship with God
- Decision to make Jesus Lord of our lives
- Basic mission - to seek and save the lost
If we in a battle together, we are unlikely to attack one another
Stay committed to God with the mission and discipling firmly in place, our unity will remain
Three warning signs, if not doing:
A. Daily diet
- Time in the Word daily - Acts 17:11
- Daily prayer - Luke 11:1-4
- Share our faith daily - Acts 17:17
- Open with our lives daily with one another - Hebrews 3:12
B. Lack of commitment
C. Lack of discipling
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Power of Gratitude - Uncommon Peace What enables us to have such uncommon peace? - Commonality
- Relationship with God
- Decision to make Jesus Lord of our lives
- Basic mission - to seek and save the lost
If we in a battle together, we are unlikely to attack one another
Stay committed to God with the mission and discipling firmly in place, our unity will remain
Three warning signs, if not doing:
A. Daily diet
- Time in the Word daily - Acts 17:11
- Daily prayer - Luke 11:1-4
- Share our faith daily - Acts 17:17
- Open with our lives daily with one another - Hebrews 3:12
B. Lack of commitment
C. Lack of discipling
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Power of Gratitude - Thank God Im a Country Boy What ever background we have, we can not change it
Cultural heritage - Jesus from Galilee and Nazareth
Job - Jesus was a carpenter son's
Appearance - Jesus "nothing in his appearance that we should desire him" (Isaiah 53:2)
Speech - Disciples "are not all these men who are speaking Galileans?" ( Acts 2:7 )
Why?
"God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise" (1 Corinthians 26-29)
Jesus understands and sympathizes - No one knows more about temptation than he.
Let he happy for how God made us and use it for his glory
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Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Be Still My Soul - Persistence
We "should always pray and not give up" - Luke 18:1
Disciples who are not close to God are simply not being perisistent
Examples of persistent prayers:
- Elisha - prayerd 7x before the promised rainfall came down -1 Kings 18:42-45
- Jesus - returned three time to the garden of Gethsemane to surrender to God's will - Matthew 26:36-FF
- Paul - prayed three times before given an answer he did not want - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
- Early church - prayed all night for Peter's deliverance - Acts 12:1-17
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Their All 1 John 1:1-4
Jesus: that which:
- Was from the beginning
- We have heard
- We have seen with our eyes
- We proclaim
"No one ever spoke the way this man does" - John 7:46
Christ was their happiness
Christ was their peace
Christ was what they wanted to experience in life
They were committed to experiencing Christ
Paul's joy of completing the task the Lord Jesus has given him - Acts 20:16-24
They did not chafe at the cost of following Christ - cost was a chance to grow
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
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Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Anointed One Jesus is the Christ, Messiah - meaning the "Anointed One"
The book of Acts - Christ was lifted high
- The good news that Jesus is the Christ - Acts 5:42
- Proclaimed the Christ there - Acts 8:5
- Jesus is the Christ - Acts 9:22
- "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ" - Acts 17:3
- Testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ - Acts 18:1-5
God's Christ was not confined to mere 33 years
By him all things were created - 1 Colossians 1:16-20
Sometimes we forgot - The Christ still lives today
Romans 8:28
- Who can be against us? No one
- Who will bring any charge against us? No one
- Who is he that condemns? No One
Christ is "begging God for us" Hebrews 7:25 (Dios Habla Hoy Bible)
|
Purpose Driven Life - Gods Power in My Weakness (part 2)
All God's great people in the Bible were weak but did not stay that way:
- Moses: Weakness was his temper BECAME "the humblest man on earth" - Numbers 12:3
- Gideon: Weakness was his low self-esteem BECAME a "mighty man of valor" - Judges 6:12
- Abraham: Weakness was fear BECAME "the father of those who have faith" - Romans 4:11
- Peter: Weakness was weak willed BECAME "a rock" - Matthew 16:18
- David: Weakness as a adulterous BECAME "a man after my own heart" - Acts 13:22
- John: Weakness was arrogance BECAME "apostle of love"
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Purpose Driven Life - Made for a Mission (part 3) Your mission give your life meaning
The nest use of your life is to spend it for something that outlast you.
My life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me - Acts 20:24
The is some people that only you can reach
God's timetable is connected to the completion of our mission
Some are focus on when Christ will come
No one knows (or will know) the day or hour of the end - Matthew 24:36
It is not for us to know; it is up to us to witness - Acts 1:7-8
Jesus quickly switch the conversations from prophecy to evangelism
Satan would rather have do anything besides sharing your faith
Expect Satan to throw all kinds of diversion at you
Anyone who lets themselves get distracted from God's plan is not fit for the Kingdom of God - Luke 9:62
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Purpose Driven Life - Made for a Mission (part 3) Your mission give your life meaning
The nest use of your life is to spend it for something that outlast you.
My life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me - Acts 20:24
The is some people that only you can reach
God's timetable is connected to the completion of our mission
Some are focus on when Christ will come
No one knows (or will know) the day or hour of the end - Matthew 24:36
It is not for us to know; it is up to us to witness - Acts 1:7-8
Jesus quickly switch the conversations from prophecy to evangelism
Satan would rather have do anything besides sharing your faith
Expect Satan to throw all kinds of diversion at you
Anyone who lets themselves get distracted from God's plan is not fit for the Kingdom of God - Luke 9:62
|
Purpose Driven Life - Made for a Mission (part 3) Your mission give your life meaning
The nest use of your life is to spend it for something that outlast you.
My life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me - Acts 20:24
The is some people that only you can reach
God's timetable is connected to the completion of our mission
Some are focus on when Christ will come
No one knows (or will know) the day or hour of the end - Matthew 24:36
It is not for us to know; it is up to us to witness - Acts 1:7-8
Jesus quickly switch the conversations from prophecy to evangelism
Satan would rather have do anything besides sharing your faith
Expect Satan to throw all kinds of diversion at you
Anyone who lets themselves get distracted from God's plan is not fit for the Kingdom of God - Luke 9:62
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Purpose Driven Life - Sharing Your Message (Testimony) Your message includes testimony
Tell other of the difference he made for you - 1 Peter 2:9
Witnessing = simply sharing your personal experiences regarding the Lord
In court witness are NOT expected to:
- Prove the truth
- Argue the case
- Press for a verdict
Witnesses simply report what happened to them or what they saw
You will be my witnesses - Acts 1:8
Personal stories:
- Easier to relate to than principles
- Capture our attention
- People are naturally curious about experiences they never have had
- Builds a relational bridge
- Bypasses intellectual defenses
Be ready to all times to answer for your hope - 1 Peter 3:15-16
Four parts of your testimony:
- What my life was before Christ
- How I realized I needed Jesus
- How I committed my life to Jesus
- The difference Jesus has made in my life
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Purpose Driven Life - Becoming a World-Class Christian (part 1) Your choice:
Worldly
- Personal fulfillment
- Self-centered
- Goes to enrichment seminars
- Avoids missions conferences
- Prayers focused on our needs
World class
- Saved to serve
- Eager for personal assignment
- Only one who is truly alive
- Makes a difference
Great Commission is for "every race, tribe, nation, and language" - Revelation 7:9
Go everywhere in the world and tell the good news - Acts 14:15
Experience is a little piece of what heaven might be like
Many opportunities today: missions, easy travel, and "e-vangelism" (email, facebook, chatting, etc)
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Purpose Driven Life - Becoming a World-Class Christian (part 2) Shift from self-centered thinking to other-centered thinking
Stop thinking like children (thinking like only of self), and like like mature people (grown ups) - 1 Corinthians 14:20
Most advertising encourages selfish thinking
To make the paradigm switch to mature thinking - need to dependence of God
God has given us his Spirit so we don't think like the world thinks - 1 Corinthians 2:12
Shift from local thinking to global thinking
God so loved the world... - John 3:16
God made all the nations and where they would be, so we would look for him - Acts 17:26-27
The world already thinks globally: business, competition, and news
If you ask me, I will give you the nations - Psalms 2:8
What should we pray for?
- Opportunities to witness - Colossians 4:3
- Courage to speak up - Ephesians 6:19
- Rapid spread of the gospel - John 17:20
- More workers - 2 Thessalonians 3:1
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Purpose Driven Life - Becoming a World-Class Christian (part 2) Shift from self-centered thinking to other-centered thinking
Stop thinking like children (thinking like only of self), and like like mature people (grown ups) - 1 Corinthians 14:20
Most advertising encourages selfish thinking
To make the paradigm switch to mature thinking - need to dependence of God
God has given us his Spirit so we don't think like the world thinks - 1 Corinthians 2:12
Shift from local thinking to global thinking
God so loved the world... - John 3:16
God made all the nations and where they would be, so we would look for him - Acts 17:26-27
The world already thinks globally: business, competition, and news
If you ask me, I will give you the nations - Psalms 2:8
What should we pray for?
- Opportunities to witness - Colossians 4:3
- Courage to speak up - Ephesians 6:19
- Rapid spread of the gospel - John 17:20
- More workers - 2 Thessalonians 3:1
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30 Days at the Cross - Life through Death
Voluntary surrender is not easy; never comfortable nor enjoyable
Christ can not be formed in us until we are crucified with him - Galatians 2:20 ; Galatians 4:19
Rebellion comes from man's desire to be God
Satan tried to delute the solution to create powerless religions
Our lives do not change at the deepest level and have the same problems as the world
Only when we are sick of our old nature will we be convinced to totally sell out to God
Death to self seems preferable to life
Most of our cires are designed to produce our surrender
Jesus served through suffering - Hebrews 5:8-9
Can not mature without surrender - Hebrews 12:5-11
Many harships come so we enter heaven - Acts 14:22
So how do we go about taking up our cross?
- Absolutely commited to the concept - John 12:23-25
- Be committed to prayer about surrender - "I surrender" and "Help my lack of suddender"
- Be committed to a relationship with another disciple - Share convictions and be open
- Be committed to stretching your comfort zone - Do things you can not do without his help
- Realize that surrender brings about absolute freedom - life through death will cease the puzzling paradox
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Holy Spirit (part I)
Acts 2:36-38 - At baptism, we are not only forgiven by Jesus’ death to begin a new life, we are also filled
with the Holy Spirit.
John 3:1-8 - Jesus taught that we must be born again via water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God.
John 7:37-39 - After Jesus’ glorification (crucifixion, resurrection and ascension), God sent his Spirit to
flow from within us like streams of running water. Previously (Old Testament), the Spirit came upon
people. Now, he dwells within us.
John 16:5-15 - One of the primary roles of the Spirit is to convict us (and the world) with regard to sin,
righteousness, and judgment. He does this in harmony with (though not exclusively through) his Word,
which he gave to the Apostles as they were guided into all truth.
|
Holy Spirit (part I)
Acts 2:36-38 - At baptism, we are not only forgiven by Jesus’ death to begin a new life, we are also filled
with the Holy Spirit.
John 3:1-8 - Jesus taught that we must be born again via water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God.
John 7:37-39 - After Jesus’ glorification (crucifixion, resurrection and ascension), God sent his Spirit to
flow from within us like streams of running water. Previously (Old Testament), the Spirit came upon
people. Now, he dwells within us.
John 16:5-15 - One of the primary roles of the Spirit is to convict us (and the world) with regard to sin,
righteousness, and judgment. He does this in harmony with (though not exclusively through) his Word,
which he gave to the Apostles as they were guided into all truth.
|
Holy Spirit (part I)
Acts 2:36-38 - At baptism, we are not only forgiven by Jesus’ death to begin a new life, we are also filled
with the Holy Spirit.
John 3:1-8 - Jesus taught that we must be born again via water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God.
John 7:37-39 - After Jesus’ glorification (crucifixion, resurrection and ascension), God sent his Spirit to
flow from within us like streams of running water. Previously (Old Testament), the Spirit came upon
people. Now, he dwells within us.
John 16:5-15 - One of the primary roles of the Spirit is to convict us (and the world) with regard to sin,
righteousness, and judgment. He does this in harmony with (though not exclusively through) his Word,
which he gave to the Apostles as they were guided into all truth.
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - Unity with Others
Questions to ask meself:
- How often this week have I prayed with someone?
- Do I pray with others about critical decisions?
- Praying together with others my custom?
If no, denying one of the most powerful aspects of pray
After Judas' sucide - two eminently qualified individuals were proposed - Acts 1:15-26
Disciples sought guidance (v24)
Peter and John were on their way to pray - Acts 3:1
They grouped together for prayer often - Acts 16:13-16
They raised their voices together in prayer - Acts 4:24
Church earnestly prayed for Peter; eventually released after angelic intervention - Acts 12:5
|
Teach Us To Pray - The Harvest Is Plentiful Jesus promises a great harvest but the worker are few (Matthew 9:35-38):
- Even when there was a large crows of disciples - Luke 6:17
- Even when the is a entire town gathered - John 4:2
God controls the harvest
Fruitfulness limited primarily by one thing - God himself
Gratitude control the harvest
Luke 9 - The charge was to preach the kingdom and heal the sick
They gave to everyone who had need - Acts 2:43-47
Salvation wasn't just a doctrine rather a reality in their lives
Jesus spent much of his time meeting physical needs, feeding, comforting, healing, serving
As a result, people spread the word even more
Reflects the power of meeting needs and our heart as a worker
To acquire this heart, we need to pray:
- For the strength to live this way
- For the trust needed to believe
- For the supplies necessary to meet every need
- For the godliness to live as the Bible directs
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Teach Us To Pray - The Harvest Is Plentiful Jesus promises a great harvest but the worker are few (Matthew 9:35-38):
- Even when there was a large crows of disciples - Luke 6:17
- Even when the is a entire town gathered - John 4:2
God controls the harvest
Fruitfulness limited primarily by one thing - God himself
Gratitude control the harvest
Luke 9 - The charge was to preach the kingdom and heal the sick
They gave to everyone who had need - Acts 2:43-47
Salvation wasn't just a doctrine rather a reality in their lives
Jesus spent much of his time meeting physical needs, feeding, comforting, healing, serving
As a result, people spread the word even more
Reflects the power of meeting needs and our heart as a worker
To acquire this heart, we need to pray:
- For the strength to live this way
- For the trust needed to believe
- For the supplies necessary to meet every need
- For the godliness to live as the Bible directs
|
Teach Us To Pray - The Harvest Is Plentiful Jesus promises a great harvest but the worker are few (Matthew 9:35-38):
- Even when there was a large crows of disciples - Luke 6:17
- Even when the is a entire town gathered - John 4:2
God controls the harvest
Fruitfulness limited primarily by one thing - God himself
Gratitude control the harvest
Luke 9 - The charge was to preach the kingdom and heal the sick
They gave to everyone who had need - Acts 2:43-47
Salvation wasn't just a doctrine rather a reality in their lives
Jesus spent much of his time meeting physical needs, feeding, comforting, healing, serving
As a result, people spread the word even more
Reflects the power of meeting needs and our heart as a worker
To acquire this heart, we need to pray:
- For the strength to live this way
- For the trust needed to believe
- For the supplies necessary to meet every need
- For the godliness to live as the Bible directs
|
Teach Us To Pray - The Harvest Is Plentiful Jesus promises a great harvest but the worker are few (Matthew 9:35-38):
- Even when there was a large crows of disciples - Luke 6:17
- Even when the is a entire town gathered - John 4:2
God controls the harvest
Fruitfulness limited primarily by one thing - God himself
Gratitude control the harvest
Luke 9 - The charge was to preach the kingdom and heal the sick
They gave to everyone who had need - Acts 2:43-47
Salvation wasn't just a doctrine rather a reality in their lives
Jesus spent much of his time meeting physical needs, feeding, comforting, healing, serving
As a result, people spread the word even more
Reflects the power of meeting needs and our heart as a worker
To acquire this heart, we need to pray:
- For the strength to live this way
- For the trust needed to believe
- For the supplies necessary to meet every need
- For the godliness to live as the Bible directs
|
Teach Us To Pray - The Harvest Is Plentiful Jesus promises a great harvest but the worker are few (Matthew 9:35-38):
- Even when there was a large crows of disciples - Luke 6:17
- Even when the is a entire town gathered - John 4:2
God controls the harvest
Fruitfulness limited primarily by one thing - God himself
Gratitude control the harvest
Luke 9 - The charge was to preach the kingdom and heal the sick
They gave to everyone who had need - Acts 2:43-47
Salvation wasn't just a doctrine rather a reality in their lives
Jesus spent much of his time meeting physical needs, feeding, comforting, healing, serving
As a result, people spread the word even more
Reflects the power of meeting needs and our heart as a worker
To acquire this heart, we need to pray:
- For the strength to live this way
- For the trust needed to believe
- For the supplies necessary to meet every need
- For the godliness to live as the Bible directs
|
Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition
Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44
It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender
Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44
When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:
- Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
- The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
- Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29
|
Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition
Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44
It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender
Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44
When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:
- Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
- The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
- Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29
|
Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition
Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44
It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender
Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44
When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:
- Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
- The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
- Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29
|
Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition
Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44
It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender
Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44
When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:
- Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
- The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
- Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29
|
Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition
Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44
It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender
Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44
When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:
- Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
- The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
- Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29
|
Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition
Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44
It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender
Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44
When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:
- Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
- The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
- Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29
|
Man of Prayer - Praying for our personal lives Jesus has given us permissions to seek divine intervention
He delights in our desire to experience His intervention
Part our our prayer time should be devoted to our needs:
What do you want?
Sometimes we do not have because we do not ask - James 4:2
OR because our motivation is not proper
Asking for God's favor can not be self-centered because God is infinite:
David asked to be the apple of God's eye - Psalms 17:8
He was a man after his own heart - Acts 13:22
Spiritual needs may include:
- To submit to the will of God
- To please the Father
- To affirm my powerlessness
- To experience His presence
- To know his will
- To be transform (character)
- To become spiritually mature
- To be humble
- To be fruitful
- To walk in the Spirit
- To obey willingly and joyfully
- To receive blessing
- To be protected
- To be useful
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Raising Awesome Kids - Love with your touch
Jesus took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them - Mark 10:15-16
Jesus could have blessed the children from afar
His way was closeness and affection
Unaffectionate families are cool, aloof and distant
Children raised in such an atmosphere develop into hard, nasty edge of anger and meanness
Examples:
Prodigal son - Luke 15:20
Greeted with a holy kiss - Romans 16:16
Paul and church leaders in Ephesus embraced and kissed - Acts 20:37
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Jesus with People - Finding Faith
Jesus was in ahuge crowd and suddenly a Roman centurion walks up to Jesus - Matthew 8:5-10
NT centurions are often mentioned with honor:
- Cornelius was the first Gentile to become a Christian - Acts 10:22
- A centurion rescued Paul from the Mob - Acts 23:27
- A centurion saved Paul's life in the shipwreck - Acts 27:43
Lord, my servant lays paralyzed and in terrible suffering - Matthew 8:5-6
To many Romans, a slave was defined as nothing more than a tool
Jesus was moved by the man's heart - I will go and heal him
When Jesus saw a need, he met it
He lived to serve and meet needs directly and continuously
He loved a man many hated
Lord, I don't deserve to have you under my roof - Matthew 8:8
He was a Gentile, Jewish law - a Jew could not enter the house of a Gentile - Acts 10:28
In spite of his desperate need, he respected Jewish law
Say the word and he will be healed - Matthew 8:8
His authority produced results, how much more would the authority of Jesus do?
Jesus did not find anyone in Israel with such faith
|
Jesus with People - Finding Faith
Jesus was in ahuge crowd and suddenly a Roman centurion walks up to Jesus - Matthew 8:5-10
NT centurions are often mentioned with honor:
- Cornelius was the first Gentile to become a Christian - Acts 10:22
- A centurion rescued Paul from the Mob - Acts 23:27
- A centurion saved Paul's life in the shipwreck - Acts 27:43
Lord, my servant lays paralyzed and in terrible suffering - Matthew 8:5-6
To many Romans, a slave was defined as nothing more than a tool
Jesus was moved by the man's heart - I will go and heal him
When Jesus saw a need, he met it
He lived to serve and meet needs directly and continuously
He loved a man many hated
Lord, I don't deserve to have you under my roof - Matthew 8:8
He was a Gentile, Jewish law - a Jew could not enter the house of a Gentile - Acts 10:28
In spite of his desperate need, he respected Jewish law
Say the word and he will be healed - Matthew 8:8
His authority produced results, how much more would the authority of Jesus do?
Jesus did not find anyone in Israel with such faith
|
Jesus with People - Finding Faith
Jesus was in ahuge crowd and suddenly a Roman centurion walks up to Jesus - Matthew 8:5-10
NT centurions are often mentioned with honor:
- Cornelius was the first Gentile to become a Christian - Acts 10:22
- A centurion rescued Paul from the Mob - Acts 23:27
- A centurion saved Paul's life in the shipwreck - Acts 27:43
Lord, my servant lays paralyzed and in terrible suffering - Matthew 8:5-6
To many Romans, a slave was defined as nothing more than a tool
Jesus was moved by the man's heart - I will go and heal him
When Jesus saw a need, he met it
He lived to serve and meet needs directly and continuously
He loved a man many hated
Lord, I don't deserve to have you under my roof - Matthew 8:8
He was a Gentile, Jewish law - a Jew could not enter the house of a Gentile - Acts 10:28
In spite of his desperate need, he respected Jewish law
Say the word and he will be healed - Matthew 8:8
His authority produced results, how much more would the authority of Jesus do?
Jesus did not find anyone in Israel with such faith
|
Jesus with People - Finding Faith
Jesus was in ahuge crowd and suddenly a Roman centurion walks up to Jesus - Matthew 8:5-10
NT centurions are often mentioned with honor:
- Cornelius was the first Gentile to become a Christian - Acts 10:22
- A centurion rescued Paul from the Mob - Acts 23:27
- A centurion saved Paul's life in the shipwreck - Acts 27:43
Lord, my servant lays paralyzed and in terrible suffering - Matthew 8:5-6
To many Romans, a slave was defined as nothing more than a tool
Jesus was moved by the man's heart - I will go and heal him
When Jesus saw a need, he met it
He lived to serve and meet needs directly and continuously
He loved a man many hated
Lord, I don't deserve to have you under my roof - Matthew 8:8
He was a Gentile, Jewish law - a Jew could not enter the house of a Gentile - Acts 10:28
In spite of his desperate need, he respected Jewish law
Say the word and he will be healed - Matthew 8:8
His authority produced results, how much more would the authority of Jesus do?
Jesus did not find anyone in Israel with such faith
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Promises of God - The Problem is Me Deuteronomy 4:29 - Find God when we seek him with all of our heart
Repentance must be proven by our deeds - Acts 26:20
Praise God for his faithful correction - Proverbs 3:11-12
God hates sin, takes sin of idolatry, personally - Deuteronomy 6:15
Sin comes when we lower the standard of commitment in our lives and allow ourselves to become lazy, selfish and self-indulgent
Being idolatrous and lukewarm is a serious sin against God - Revelation 3:16
Against God, his church, and the souls that are not saved as a result
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Why We Need The Bible - Help Keep One Saved Paul emphasized this value of the Scriptures
- To the Corinthians - 1 Corinthians 10:11-12
- To Timothy - 2 Timothy 3:14-17
The saving value of the Word of God is for both young and old
- The young can keep their ways pure by it - Psalms 119:9
- Elders were commended to the Word for their salvation - Acts 20:32
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One Another - Admonishing One Another "noutheteo" meaning to or counsel, translated admonish:
- To caution, advise or counsel against something
- To reprove or scold in a goodwilled manner
- To urge to a duty
- Not to rebuke
Noutheteo is used frequently involving one another
- I did not cease to admonish each one with tears - Acts 20:31
- We proclaim Him, admonishing every man - Colossians 1:28
- Admonish one another - not just something for leaders - Romans 15:14
- Admonish the unruly - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
More often admonish is the word couch
Not uncommon to pay to have a life couch
We should have a # of relationships with people who know us and can help
We must also realize that we can give others couching as well
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Repentance - What It Is (part 1) What is repentance?
Repentance is the first word of the gospel
Na,,ham = most often used of God’s repentance
Shu, b = a physical turning or returning of an object
epostrepho = a Greek work similar to Shu, b
metanoia = used as the first word in the gospel (change in mind and attitude)
- meta = after, change, implies there was a before
- noia = denotes the faculty of physical and intellectual perception, then also the power to arrive at moral judgments
“he came to his senses” – Luke 15:17
“he opened their minds” – Luke 24:45
“open their eyes” – Acts 26:18
“set their minds on things above” – Romans 8:5
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Repentance - The Prophets (part 2) Prophets
- Repent and turn from your transgressions – Ezekiel 18:30
- Bear fruit with keeping with repentance – Luke 3:8
Jesus
- Unless you repent, you will perish – Luke 13:3
- If you don’t wake up, I will come like a thief – Revelation 3:3
Apostles
- He commands all people everywhere to repent – Acts 17:30
- Repent and turn to God – Acts 26:20
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Repentance - The Prophets (part 2) Prophets
- Repent and turn from your transgressions – Ezekiel 18:30
- Bear fruit with keeping with repentance – Luke 3:8
Jesus
- Unless you repent, you will perish – Luke 13:3
- If you don’t wake up, I will come like a thief – Revelation 3:3
Apostles
- He commands all people everywhere to repent – Acts 17:30
- Repent and turn to God – Acts 26:20
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Repentance - Holy Spirit Convicts Us Exposure is a gift from God
Women at the well – John 4:10
Elegcho – The gate of repentance
Means to show someone his sin and to summon him to repentance; bring light, expose set forth
More than just showing faults (easy)
Sets out to prove the offense to the blinded offender
Laodicean – I know your deeds, church became blinded
Exposing the church resented a gate to enter repentance
The truth demands repentance
Purpose of Elegcho? It’s a loving summons to godly sorrow
Is repentance a gift or a command?
We often confront the idea of repentance in the form if a command or an activity
As a gift…
- To give repentance – Acts 5:30-31
- God granted repentance – Acts 11:11-18
- God will grant the repentance – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Questions
- What is the value of the gift of elegcho (pronounced “elencho”)?
- What methods has the Holy Spirit used to convict you? Which has been most effective at producing repentance? Which methods have you most tried to avoid?
- How have you tried to avoid reproof from fellow Christians?
- According to Revelation 3:19, why does Jesus reprove us? What response does He desire from us?
- How can a person dead in sin repent and believe?
- How does God grant repentance?
- Look back over the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (see chapters 4 and 5); list examples of how they reproved their hearers in order to bring them to repentance.
- Why is repentance impossible without God?
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Master Plan - Selection (part 3) Few were converted in His lifetime.
- Little more than 500 after the resurrection - 1 Corinthians 15:6
- 120 received baptism at the day of Pentecost - Acts 1:15
Strategy
- Why not an army?
- He needed leaders to lead the ministry after He left. Not all followers. It takes energy to produce a leader.
- Not trying to impress the crowd but the usher in a Kingdom
- Mass are like helpless sheep wandering aimlessly without a shepherds
- Masses willing to follow anyone that came along with some promise for their welfare
- Jesus was a realist. He knew he could not meet all the needs on His own.
Some concern themselves with baptisms and numbers more than power and love of God
Everything that is done with the few is for the salvation of the multitudes.
Modern Practicals
- We are not even keeping with the growing population
- We in an age where more rapid communication is now being seen than ever before
- Must not be frantic to try to change the pattern overnight
- Do like Jesus – start with a few lowly disciples and do as it was done by Jesus
- Slow, tedious, painful, and probably unnoticed at first
- Not spiritual “junk-food” revivals
- Which generation are you living for?
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Master Plan - He Required Obedience
- Jesus required and expected obedience
- They were disciples, learners, pupils (“Christian”) did not even come until later - Acts 11:26
- Being smart was not a requirement for His students, but loyalty was.
- No statement of faith made at the beginning but they believed that he was the Messiah (Luke 1:41, 45, 49; 5:8)
- Jesus was obedient to His Word and expected others to do the same.
- People do not follow hypocrites – Jesus lived it
- Way of the Cross
- Meant more than a joyful precession: it meant a surrender of one’ whole life and of His sovereignty.
- God or Money - Luke 16:13
- Do not conform to the world = new life - Matthew 5:1-7:29
- Love was found in obedience (John 14:21)
- Cross – willingness to die to self so that other may live
- Strong Teachings
- Not many followed (many left) - John 6:66
- Jesus did not go running after them to get them to stay
- Must be willing to pay the price
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Kingdom First - Hungry and Humility (part 2) Men and women have fasted at various times for variety of ways
- Jesus fasted for forty days - Matthew 4:2
- Jesus did not eat but apparently did drink
- Paul for 3 days - Acts 9:9
- Ezra did not eat or drink - Ezra 10:6
- Daniel ate no choice food (meat or wine) for three weeks - Daniel 10:3
- Leaders in Antioch fasted before their mission - Acts 13:3
- Moses (Exodus 34:28) and Daniel (Daniel 10:3) while receiving the word of God
Keep fasting spiced up with variety Call yourself higher.
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Kingdom First - Hungry and Humility (part 2) Men and women have fasted at various times for variety of ways
- Jesus fasted for forty days - Matthew 4:2
- Jesus did not eat but apparently did drink
- Paul for 3 days - Acts 9:9
- Ezra did not eat or drink - Ezra 10:6
- Daniel ate no choice food (meat or wine) for three weeks - Daniel 10:3
- Leaders in Antioch fasted before their mission - Acts 13:3
- Moses (Exodus 34:28) and Daniel (Daniel 10:3) while receiving the word of God
Keep fasting spiced up with variety Call yourself higher.
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First the Kingdom - One-Lane Road (part 2) When have been given a second chance to walk the narrow road
Finding the narrow does not guarantee we will go through the final gate
Must make daily decisions:
- Decision to stay humble - Luke 18:17
- Decision against materialism - Luke 18:24-25
- Decision to persevere through hardships - Acts 14:22
- Decision to stand firm in our convictions - Luke 21:12-19
- Decision to believe and obey God whatever the circumstances - Hebrews 3:5-19
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One Another - Spurring One Another (part 2) Because of our great blessings with Christ, we can not take this fellowship lightly
Must pursue it with greater vigor - Hebrews 10:24-31
There is great seriousness in this matter
paroxusmos - Greek word, translates word:
- NIV = spur on
- KJV = provoke
- CSB - promote
- NASB - stimulate
Greek lexicon:
- Stirring up, provoking - only used here in the NT
- irritation, sharp disagreement - only Acts 15:39
- Attack of high fever - not in NT
Not a "nice" word but aggressive word in Webster's transliteration:
- Sudden violent outburst
- Fit of violent action or emotion
- A severe medically attack
How do we accomplish the "spurring on"?
Must be done with thought and with their needs in mind - not one size fits all
Must be done with end result to result being love and good deeds
- Pray for their needs and let them know that you are
- Share scripture that you believe will be relevant
- When they share struggles - ask them about it consistently
- Do not be afraid to give someone a bold challenge
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To Live is Christ - Partners in the Gospel Philippians 1:16
Philippi was named for Philip of Macedon
It was a roman colony - not actually a place one would expect the message of Jesus to take hold
A roman jail is where you would expect Paul and Silas to be
Paul made a career of being with other and influencing their lives - reduced to visits from the guards
Through many hard times he had learned to overcome the most challenging of circumstances
Five lines into the letter, Paul remembers his relationship with God and other disciples:
- First converts - Lydia and her household
- The jailer and his house hold
- God using an earthquake to bring unlikely people into the kingdom of God - Acts 16:22
Christianity is a personal experience but not a private one
Only when we have been in the trenches with others will we have relationships that are full of life
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To Live is Christ - Whatever Happens
Paul set an example for them by facing frustration with faith - lesson for us as well
Whatever happens...in a manner worthy of the gospel
It is not just a good moral life; is is united with each other - standing firm in one spirit
Jesus died to bring us together
1st century - no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own - Acts 4:32
An autonomous Christian was unknown to the biblical writters
Staying in the fellowship means:
- Suffering
- Extra work
- Carrying each other's burdens
The world needs to see men, women, singles, marrieds, teens, all races, rich and poor brought together as "one man".
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To Live is Christ - Know Christ Paul wanted to know Christ - Philippians 3:10-11
Did he not know him yet?
- Three days of fasting and prayer? - Acts 9:9
- After 3 years of personal training? - Galatians 1:11-24
- After a visit to the 3 heaven? - 2 Corinthians 12:1-6
Geek verb ginoskein - close to intimacy of marriage
Paul knew about Jesus
He was will aware that simply doing the right thing did not give him intimacy
Do we really know Christ?
To become like him in his death is become like him in life:
- Give when you are tired
- Pray when you do not want to
- Stand your ground against emotions and thoughts
- Overcome fear and to love in practical, unselfish way
To live like this is to know Christ
The spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you - Romans 8:11
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Life to the Full - Personal Life of Peter (part 1) Before calling him, Peter's character was more rash than rational
The Bad
He gave into bad habits, swearing - Matthew 26:74
He lacked a mission in his life - Luke 5:10
The Good
He spoke his mind plainly - Matthew 16:22
Responded quickly - Galatians 2:11
Always ready to learn from his mistakes - Luke 22:23
Peter was totally transformed by the Lord; he became bold and confident - Acts 4:12-13
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Life to the Full - Personal Life of Peter (part 1) Before calling him, Peter's character was more rash than rational
The Bad
He gave into bad habits, swearing - Matthew 26:74
He lacked a mission in his life - Luke 5:10
The Good
He spoke his mind plainly - Matthew 16:22
Responded quickly - Galatians 2:11
Always ready to learn from his mistakes - Luke 22:23
Peter was totally transformed by the Lord; he became bold and confident - Acts 4:12-13
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Life to the Full - Personal Life of Peter (part 2)
Peter steady increased in his faith:
- Follower of Jesus - Mark 1:18
- Apostle - Mark 3:14
- Chief apostle - Matthew 16:18
- Leader of Jerusalem church - Acts 2:14
- Traveling mission evangelist - Acts 8:14
- Martyr - John 21:19
Are you growing and taking it higher in your walk with God each day?
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Life to the Full - Personal Life of Peter (part 2)
Peter steady increased in his faith:
- Follower of Jesus - Mark 1:18
- Apostle - Mark 3:14
- Chief apostle - Matthew 16:18
- Leader of Jerusalem church - Acts 2:14
- Traveling mission evangelist - Acts 8:14
- Martyr - John 21:19
Are you growing and taking it higher in your walk with God each day?
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Top Ten of Giving
Preached by unknown - 2004-03-21
1. Gave his one and only - John 3:16
Giving defined by God
What is your one and only?
2. He became poor for us - 2 Corinthians 8:9
Who and how are we becoming poor for others?
3. Many thanks to God - 2 Corinthians 9:11
4. God loves a cheerful giver- 2 Corinthians 9:7
Is our giving cheerfully?
5. More than enough - Exodus 35:1-36:7
Do I ever shoot to give more?
What if you changed one thing per day?
Extended yourself all the time
6. Burnt offering worth nothing - 2 Samuel 24:18
7. Rich generosity - 2 Corinthians 8:1-4
Grace is an undeserved gift Give in poor areas?
8. All she had to live on - Mark 12:41-44
9. It is more blessed to give than receive - Acts 20:35
10. Test me in this - Malachi 3:6-12
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Amazing Grace - how fearful the sound Preached on 2003-11-13
There is nothing we can do or not do to change it
Psalms 103:8 - Grace is not a new concept for God
Luke 9:51-56 - the disciples struggled with grace
What fears do we have about grace?
1. Grace - produces lazy Christians
We cannot control the freedom of others
Acts 4:33 - much grace given and produced committed disciples
2. Grace - produces sinful Christians
Grace exposes our hearts and gives us the responsibility to respond
Romans 5:15-19
- Regulations is not grace
- Grace is a mature concept
What has grace produced in you?
3. Grace - produces weak convictions
John 6:28-29
- Must believe
- Belief is a work you must do
Luke 13:2-9
- Repent or perish
- Level of repentance and faith may be different for each person but baptism is the same for all.
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Life of Jesus (part 2) John 6:60-69
- Jesus spoke the truth without concern for opposition
- What do you need to say to who?
John 8:1-11
- Jesus stood up for people
- Who do you need to stand up for?
John 11:1-37
- Jesus felt other's pain
- People have more pain their lives than you think
- Who needs your help?
John 13:18
- Throughout all our trials, Jesus kept going
- What could stop you?
John 21:25 - Could go on and on about what Jesus did
Acts 1:6-9 - Jesus went to heaven
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Life of Jesus (part 2) John 6:60-69
- Jesus spoke the truth without concern for opposition
- What do you need to say to who?
John 8:1-11
- Jesus stood up for people
- Who do you need to stand up for?
John 11:1-37
- Jesus felt other's pain
- People have more pain their lives than you think
- Who needs your help?
John 13:18
- Throughout all our trials, Jesus kept going
- What could stop you?
John 21:25 - Could go on and on about what Jesus did
Acts 1:6-9 - Jesus went to heaven
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Life of Jesus (part 2) John 6:60-69
- Jesus spoke the truth without concern for opposition
- What do you need to say to who?
John 8:1-11
- Jesus stood up for people
- Who do you need to stand up for?
John 11:1-37
- Jesus felt other's pain
- People have more pain their lives than you think
- Who needs your help?
John 13:18
- Throughout all our trials, Jesus kept going
- What could stop you?
John 21:25 - Could go on and on about what Jesus did
Acts 1:6-9 - Jesus went to heaven
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Life of Jesus (part 2) John 6:60-69
- Jesus spoke the truth without concern for opposition
- What do you need to say to who?
John 8:1-11
- Jesus stood up for people
- Who do you need to stand up for?
John 11:1-37
- Jesus felt other's pain
- People have more pain their lives than you think
- Who needs your help?
John 13:18
- Throughout all our trials, Jesus kept going
- What could stop you?
John 21:25 - Could go on and on about what Jesus did
Acts 1:6-9 - Jesus went to heaven
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Desire's Journey - Great Restoration (part 2)
Restoration of the world is play out each spring and summer
Jesus preached more than sin management and forgiveness
He annouced the coming of the kingdom of God
- Preaching the good news of the kingdom - Matthew 4:23
- Repent and believe the good news - Mark 1:15
- Proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God - Luke 8:1
- He appeared to them for 40 days and spokr about the kingdom of God - Acts 1:3
God's kingdom - his will is done "on earth as it is in heaven"
In heaven, everything is as it was meant to be
Isn't every one of our sorrows on earth the result of things not being as they were meant to be?
Jesus healed every disease and sickness among the people - Matthew 4:23
He spoke and the kingdom of God and healed those who needed healing - Luke 9:11
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Waking Dead - Arm Yourselves (part 1) What are God's intentions toward me? What is it I've come to believe?
Heard that God cares and has some glowing promises given to us in Scripture
The glory of God is man fully alive
Jesus says he came to give life
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full - John 10:10
Whoever believes in me - streams of living water will flow from within him - John 7:38
Life is all over the scriptures:
You have made known to me the path of life - Psalms 16:11
In him was life and that life was the light of men - John 1:4
Come to me to have life - John 5:40
Tell the people the full message of this new life - Acts 5:20
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Waking Dead - New Heart Most people assume the Cross is the total work of Christ
The Resurrection is the epilogue of the real story
If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith - 1 Corinthians 15:14
WWJD? Not wearing a cross necklace
Church did not even began using the cross in a minor role symbol until 400 years after Christ
Must become a witness with us of his resurrection - Acts 1:22
Proclaim in Jesus the resurrection of the dead - Acts 4:2
Apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus - Acts 4:33
Paul preached the good news about Jesus and the resurrection - Acts 17:18
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Waking Dead - New Heart Most people assume the Cross is the total work of Christ
The Resurrection is the epilogue of the real story
If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith - 1 Corinthians 15:14
WWJD? Not wearing a cross necklace
Church did not even began using the cross in a minor role symbol until 400 years after Christ
Must become a witness with us of his resurrection - Acts 1:22
Proclaim in Jesus the resurrection of the dead - Acts 4:2
Apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus - Acts 4:33
Paul preached the good news about Jesus and the resurrection - Acts 17:18
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Waking Dead - New Heart Most people assume the Cross is the total work of Christ
The Resurrection is the epilogue of the real story
If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith - 1 Corinthians 15:14
WWJD? Not wearing a cross necklace
Church did not even began using the cross in a minor role symbol until 400 years after Christ
Must become a witness with us of his resurrection - Acts 1:22
Proclaim in Jesus the resurrection of the dead - Acts 4:2
Apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus - Acts 4:33
Paul preached the good news about Jesus and the resurrection - Acts 17:18
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Waking Dead - Wisdom and Heart Our heart has been made good by work of Christ but we haven't learned how to live from it
Launching out with an untrained heart can bring disaster
We can easily be shamed into sin management and think our heart is bad
The church choose those who had both wisdom and the Spirit - Acts 6:3
We need both
Wisdom is crying out
- Do not rush the field - Luke 14:31
- Train yourself to discern good from evil - Hebrews 5:14
- Live as through your life is at stake - Matthew 10:16
Wisdom is not cramming our heads with principles but developing a discerning heart
Solomon was so sharp because he had a wise and discerning heart - 1 Kings 3:9
But wisdom is not enough
- Against "wisdom", the disciples were asked to go Saul, the one who used to murder Christians, and lay his hands on him - Acts 9:13-14
- Would you counsel a father to sacrifice his only child?
- Take on a fortified city by slashing your ranks from 32,000 to 300?
- Jesus to give himself up to the authorities and let himself get killed
Wisdom is not enough, it may even hold us back
The common sense life can be the enemy of the supernatural life
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Waking Dead - Wisdom and Heart Our heart has been made good by work of Christ but we haven't learned how to live from it
Launching out with an untrained heart can bring disaster
We can easily be shamed into sin management and think our heart is bad
The church choose those who had both wisdom and the Spirit - Acts 6:3
We need both
Wisdom is crying out
- Do not rush the field - Luke 14:31
- Train yourself to discern good from evil - Hebrews 5:14
- Live as through your life is at stake - Matthew 10:16
Wisdom is not cramming our heads with principles but developing a discerning heart
Solomon was so sharp because he had a wise and discerning heart - 1 Kings 3:9
But wisdom is not enough
- Against "wisdom", the disciples were asked to go Saul, the one who used to murder Christians, and lay his hands on him - Acts 9:13-14
- Would you counsel a father to sacrifice his only child?
- Take on a fortified city by slashing your ranks from 32,000 to 300?
- Jesus to give himself up to the authorities and let himself get killed
Wisdom is not enough, it may even hold us back
The common sense life can be the enemy of the supernatural life
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Waking Dead - Wisdom and Heart Our heart has been made good by work of Christ but we haven't learned how to live from it
Launching out with an untrained heart can bring disaster
We can easily be shamed into sin management and think our heart is bad
The church choose those who had both wisdom and the Spirit - Acts 6:3
We need both
Wisdom is crying out
- Do not rush the field - Luke 14:31
- Train yourself to discern good from evil - Hebrews 5:14
- Live as through your life is at stake - Matthew 10:16
Wisdom is not cramming our heads with principles but developing a discerning heart
Solomon was so sharp because he had a wise and discerning heart - 1 Kings 3:9
But wisdom is not enough
- Against "wisdom", the disciples were asked to go Saul, the one who used to murder Christians, and lay his hands on him - Acts 9:13-14
- Would you counsel a father to sacrifice his only child?
- Take on a fortified city by slashing your ranks from 32,000 to 300?
- Jesus to give himself up to the authorities and let himself get killed
Wisdom is not enough, it may even hold us back
The common sense life can be the enemy of the supernatural life
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Waking Dead - Fellowship of the Heart The first Christians were called "followers of the Way" - Acts 9:2
They found the Way of Life and had given themselves over to it:
- They lived together
- Ate together
- Fought together
- Celebrated together
How wonderful it would be if we found the same
A fellowship must protect you:
- Frodo hasn't a chance without Sam, Merry, Pippin, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli
- Neo is set free from the Matrix and joins the crew of the Nebuchadnezzar
- Dorthy, the Scarecrow, Tin man, and the Lion
- Band of Brothers - enough said
- Prince Caspian with a faithful few Narnians
- Maximus rallies his little band
- Captain John Miller and is squad of eight to save Private Ryan
- Jesus had his Tweleve
Fellowship functions as a team to watch each other's back
A family bound together in a single fate
Each one has a role
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Waking Dead - It Must Be Small Jesus did not march around backed by hundreds of followers
He had a band of brothers - the Twelve
Through we are part of a great company, we are meant to live a little platoons
Groups small enough for each of the members to know one another as friends and allies
Who's heart will you fight for? Who will fight for your heart?
He spoke to the masses but lived with his closest twelve
His followers took his example and lived this way too
- Broke bread in their homes and ate together - Acts 2:46
- The church meet in houses - 1 Corinthians 16:19
- House church at Nymph's house - Colossians 4:15
The little fellowships of the heart are outpost of the kingdom
Anytime an army goes to war or expedition, they break down into platoons and squads
You can not be devoted to a mass of people
Devotion takes place in small units like a family
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Waking Dead - It Must Be Intimate Most churches offer small group activities but they are usually short lived for two reasons:
1. Can't just throw a random group together and then it instantly become allies
Closeness takes time - playing, working, helping, living together develops relationships
All the believers were one in heart - Acts 4:32
- They all love the same thing
- They all wanted the same thing
- They were bound together to find it come hell or high water
2. Small groups are anything but redemptive powerhouses
You can study til you are blue in the face but it will not heal a broken heart
A small fellowship needs to be a redemptive community and one that protects
Idea: In a group - write down 5 words or phrases that captures your life right now
Then find what stories or scenes or characters help you interpret those words
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Giving (Part I)
- The Old Testament Precedent - Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 1:13-14
- The Israelites were commanded to give a tenth (tithe) of all their income to the Lord
- The Israelites had many other kinds of sacrifices (e.g. burnt, sin, grain, fellowship offerings) in addition to the tithe. The Israelites actually gave up to 33% of their income to God.
- The sacrifices were to be the best available. God will not accept a second rate sacrifice.
- New Testament Examples
- The Widow - Mark 12:41-44
She was commended not for what she gave, but her giving heart. She was totally dependent on God.
- Barnabas - Acts 4:36-37
He sold his property and gave all the proceeds from the sale to meet the needs of the church.
- The Macedonians - 2 Corinthians 8:1-3
They gave beyond their ability even though they were extremely poor
- True Sacrifice Costs Something - 2 Samuel 24:21-25
- David refused to sacrifice to God something that cost him nothing.
QUESTIONS
- Am I giving my best to God in my weekly giving? Do I give to God first out of my pay or out of what is left over?
- What percentage of my income am I giving in my weekly contribution?
- What am I willing to sell or sacrifice for the special contribution?
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Giving (Part I)
- The Old Testament Precedent - Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 1:13-14
- The Israelites were commanded to give a tenth (tithe) of all their income to the Lord
- The Israelites had many other kinds of sacrifices (e.g. burnt, sin, grain, fellowship offerings) in addition to the tithe. The Israelites actually gave up to 33% of their income to God.
- The sacrifices were to be the best available. God will not accept a second rate sacrifice.
- New Testament Examples
- The Widow - Mark 12:41-44
She was commended not for what she gave, but her giving heart. She was totally dependent on God.
- Barnabas - Acts 4:36-37
He sold his property and gave all the proceeds from the sale to meet the needs of the church.
- The Macedonians - 2 Corinthians 8:1-3
They gave beyond their ability even though they were extremely poor
- True Sacrifice Costs Something - 2 Samuel 24:21-25
- David refused to sacrifice to God something that cost him nothing.
QUESTIONS
- Am I giving my best to God in my weekly giving? Do I give to God first out of my pay or out of what is left over?
- What percentage of my income am I giving in my weekly contribution?
- What am I willing to sell or sacrifice for the special contribution?
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Contagious Christian - Dorcas' Service Approach Dorcas was "always doing good and helping the poor" - Acts 9:36
She well-known for her loving acts of service
She made robes and articles of clothing for widows and other needy people in her town
It was very difficult to see her activity without seeing the love of Christ that inspired
Her work was so important that when she died a premature death, God sent Peter to raise her from the dead
People who take on this approach find it relatively easy to servers others
Often those who are quite and enjoy expressing compassion through action
No one fits perfectly into just one approach and you probably use all of them one way or another
God has designed diversity on His team and each member is stronger in some styles than others
A team of Christians who are made up of different styles will strong because they can reach virtually every type of seeker
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Mission - Repentance Both Luke 24 and 2 - message of repentance and forgiveness is mentioned in the light of the death and resurrection of Jesus
The message to Preach
1. Repentance
God wants the cross to reveal how disgraceful and disgusting sin is
To motivate us to radical and rapid change
Is there an example of repentance in the Bible that is not radical and rapid?
Repentance is the first and foremost call to change to change our mind (metanoia)
Paul preached they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance with their deeds - Acts 26:20
You can only change your action for a period of time without ever really changing your mind
Change your mind, you will change your action rapidly and radically
Baptism happened rapidly and radically because his heart was ready to change - Acts 8
Would we have have baptized the Ethiopian the same day?
What did Philip see? Unmistakable signs of godly sorrow
As soon as someone has repented, he is ready for baptism
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Mission - Forgiveness The message to Preach
2. Forgiveness of sins
Without this, there would be nothing else
God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us - Romans 5:8
We first need to clearly teach people why forgiveness is possible
Happens only in the name of Jesus
It is only because God loves us and not because of anything we have done or will do
We must also make it clear that is when one is baptized in the name of Jesus that one is saved - Acts 2:38
As we preach, we must be careful, but not cautious
Be sensitive but not sentimental
We must preach the cross so powerfully that it cuts
No one will ever repent until they are brought to Godly sorrow - 2 Corinthians 7
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Mission - First the Kingdom No one is ready to follow Jesus who is not ready to put the kingdom of God first above everything else in his life
Take away the radicalness of the message and you take away the power of the message
Compromise it and you have religion but not the church of Jesus Christ
Every kingdom has a king
God is the king of kings and the lord of lords - 2 Timothy 6:15
Jesus is known as both Lord and Christ, King and Savior - Acts 2:38
We are the servants, subjects, and even slaves of God - Romans 6:22
The centurion understood this authority - Luke 7:8
You will be given all the things you need when you seek first the kingdom - Matthew 6:33
Can you powerfully proclaim this message to others because it is so clearly your conviction? - Colossians 3:1-2
When making decisions, ask what is best for the kingdom.
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Mission - Peter, To a Rock Peter's talk with Jesus by the coals burned an incredible mark in the heart of Peter - John 21:9
At Pentecost, Peter is recorded by Luke to have
- Heroic acts of wisdom - Acts 2:14
- Boldness and courage
- Healings - Acts 5:15-16
Peter had profoundly changed but sometimes rocks have rough edges
Paul was very angry with on an occasion - Galatians 2:11
But Peter grew to become a stronger disciple
While the world stagnates in, the Christian list is an exciting adventure in change
Peter was not only a hero because he changed but because he also persevered
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Mission - Peter, To a Rock Peter's talk with Jesus by the coals burned an incredible mark in the heart of Peter - John 21:9
At Pentecost, Peter is recorded by Luke to have
- Heroic acts of wisdom - Acts 2:14
- Boldness and courage
- Healings - Acts 5:15-16
Peter had profoundly changed but sometimes rocks have rough edges
Paul was very angry with on an occasion - Galatians 2:11
But Peter grew to become a stronger disciple
While the world stagnates in, the Christian list is an exciting adventure in change
Peter was not only a hero because he changed but because he also persevered
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Mission - Peter, To a Rock Peter's talk with Jesus by the coals burned an incredible mark in the heart of Peter - John 21:9
At Pentecost, Peter is recorded by Luke to have
- Heroic acts of wisdom - Acts 2:14
- Boldness and courage
- Healings - Acts 5:15-16
Peter had profoundly changed but sometimes rocks have rough edges
Paul was very angry with on an occasion - Galatians 2:11
But Peter grew to become a stronger disciple
While the world stagnates in, the Christian list is an exciting adventure in change
Peter was not only a hero because he changed but because he also persevered
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Mission - Cannot Help Proclaiming (part I) We can help speaking about what we have seen and heard - Acts 4:20
Have you ever been so committed to something that you were unable to stop?
What would it take to stop you from sharing your faith?
What does it take to motivate you to share your faith?
Does it take accountability it invite people?
What compelled Peter and John?
1. We are overflowing with Jesus
The authorities took note that the disciples had been with Jesus - Acts 4:13
His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in - Jeremiah 20:9
Do we feel that we will burst if we don't open our moths
2. We need to be filled with gratitude
We so easily forget what God's grace has done for us
David says over and over again to tell and celebrate God's glory
Are we overflowing with gratitude for the wonders of God?
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Mission - Cannot Help Proclaiming (part I) We can help speaking about what we have seen and heard - Acts 4:20
Have you ever been so committed to something that you were unable to stop?
What would it take to stop you from sharing your faith?
What does it take to motivate you to share your faith?
Does it take accountability it invite people?
What compelled Peter and John?
1. We are overflowing with Jesus
The authorities took note that the disciples had been with Jesus - Acts 4:13
His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in - Jeremiah 20:9
Do we feel that we will burst if we don't open our moths
2. We need to be filled with gratitude
We so easily forget what God's grace has done for us
David says over and over again to tell and celebrate God's glory
Are we overflowing with gratitude for the wonders of God?
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Mission - Cannot Help Proclaiming (part II) What else compelled Peter and John?
3. Having a spiritual perspective of the plan of God
God orchestrated situations so people will find him - Acts 17:26-27
Satan can lull us to sleep with his lies
If I miss this opportunity, maybe God will use someone else, they don't look interested
They apostles felt the burden of salvation
They were convicted that they were the only hope of salvation
If they stopped, hope was gone
We must have a heartfelt conviction that we are God's vehicles to reach a lost and desperate world
4. Must understand that Satan's victory/defeat is determined by our faithfulness to proclaim the word of God boldly
We have two God-given weapons:
- Blood of Jesus
- Word of our testimony - Revelation 12:11
Satan's goal is to keep people away from God, ours is to bring people to God
He wins every time we do not open our mouth - we must not be silent
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Mission - Cannot Help Proclaiming (part II) What else compelled Peter and John?
3. Having a spiritual perspective of the plan of God
God orchestrated situations so people will find him - Acts 17:26-27
Satan can lull us to sleep with his lies
If I miss this opportunity, maybe God will use someone else, they don't look interested
They apostles felt the burden of salvation
They were convicted that they were the only hope of salvation
If they stopped, hope was gone
We must have a heartfelt conviction that we are God's vehicles to reach a lost and desperate world
4. Must understand that Satan's victory/defeat is determined by our faithfulness to proclaim the word of God boldly
We have two God-given weapons:
- Blood of Jesus
- Word of our testimony - Revelation 12:11
Satan's goal is to keep people away from God, ours is to bring people to God
He wins every time we do not open our mouth - we must not be silent
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
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Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
|
Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
|
Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
|
Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
|
Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
|
Seeking God (part I)
What are you looking for in life?
Acts 17:16-28
- Ever ask yourself: “What on earth am I here for?” You aren’t alone!
- Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and
find him in order to have a personal relationship with him.
- Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalms 14:2-3).
- Why do so few seem to be seeking today?
- God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted v23
- We have created our own god. We all worship something.
- To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible
- There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
- We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart.
- Have you ever done something with all your heart? What is it?
- What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Seeking God (part II)
Examples of those seeking God:
Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:26-40
- What do we know about this seeker?
- He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God.
- He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading.
- He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help.
- What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism.
- How did he feel after coming to know God better?
- The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
Bereans - Acts 17:10-12
- What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having “noble character”?
- Enthusiastic
- Great Eagerness - explain
- Examined the scriptures daily
- Why was it important for them to “examine the Scriptures every day” for themselves?
- What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude?
- As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
|
Knowing Jesus (part II) 1 John 2:3-6
- Knowing Jesus is not just an intellectual exercise.
- The goal of the Christian is to obey his commands and become more and more like him
- to think like Jesus
- to act like Jesus
- to live like Jesus.
John 14:6
- Jesus claimed to be the only way, not a way.
- He claimed to be the whole truth and not one truth among many.
- He said he was the life, not just a better life.
- How important is it that we put our faith, our trust, our obedience in Jesus?
- It is the most important decision of your life - Acts 4:12
|
Word of God (part III) Acts 17:10-12
- We are ultimately responsible for what we believe.
- Religious leaders can be wrong, so we cannot be lazy.
- Review in greater depth the lessons and sermons you hear to be sure about what you are being taught.
- Are you willing to take personal responsibility for knowing what the Bible says?
Psalms 1, Psalms 19:7-11
- The Bible is more than just words on a page.
- We need to develop a thirst and devotion to the word of God.
- How eager are you to regularly meditate on the Scriptures?
Isaiah 66:1-2
- Our attitude should be one of humility, reverence and awe for God’s word.
- Are you willing to live by the Bible, taking God at his Word in your relationship with him?
- Are you willing to trust God’s Word above your own feelings, religious traditions or religious leaders?
- Will you seek to understand God’s will and ways through his inspired Word?
|
Word of God (part III) Acts 17:10-12
- We are ultimately responsible for what we believe.
- Religious leaders can be wrong, so we cannot be lazy.
- Review in greater depth the lessons and sermons you hear to be sure about what you are being taught.
- Are you willing to take personal responsibility for knowing what the Bible says?
Psalms 1, Psalms 19:7-11
- The Bible is more than just words on a page.
- We need to develop a thirst and devotion to the word of God.
- How eager are you to regularly meditate on the Scriptures?
Isaiah 66:1-2
- Our attitude should be one of humility, reverence and awe for God’s word.
- Are you willing to live by the Bible, taking God at his Word in your relationship with him?
- Are you willing to trust God’s Word above your own feelings, religious traditions or religious leaders?
- Will you seek to understand God’s will and ways through his inspired Word?
|
Word of God (part III) Acts 17:10-12
- We are ultimately responsible for what we believe.
- Religious leaders can be wrong, so we cannot be lazy.
- Review in greater depth the lessons and sermons you hear to be sure about what you are being taught.
- Are you willing to take personal responsibility for knowing what the Bible says?
Psalms 1, Psalms 19:7-11
- The Bible is more than just words on a page.
- We need to develop a thirst and devotion to the word of God.
- How eager are you to regularly meditate on the Scriptures?
Isaiah 66:1-2
- Our attitude should be one of humility, reverence and awe for God’s word.
- Are you willing to live by the Bible, taking God at his Word in your relationship with him?
- Are you willing to trust God’s Word above your own feelings, religious traditions or religious leaders?
- Will you seek to understand God’s will and ways through his inspired Word?
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Repentance (part I)
Luke 13:1-5, 6-9
- Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish.
- He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance.
- The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a “turning,” a “change of heart and mind.”
- When we discover we’ve been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite
direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
Luke 3:7-14
- The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset.
- John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism.
- If you were to ask John, “What should I do?” how would he respond to you?
Acts 26:15-21
- Jesus gives Paul the charge to “open their eyes” so that “they may turn” and prove their repentance by their deeds.
- Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
|
Baptism into Christ (part I)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
- God’s plan to bring salvation to the world culminated in the death, burial and resurrection of his Son,Jesus Christ.
- This is the heart of the “gospel” or good news about Jesus.
- Draw picture - Through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is now available.
- In this study we will look at the Bible’s teaching about baptism, a crucial link between Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sins.
Acts 2:36-41
- The first proclamation of the good news of Jesus after his departure.
- What did Peter instruct those to do who believed the message about Jesus?
- When do we receive the forgiveness of sins? The Holy Spirit? (More on this later.)
- Those who accepted this message were baptized, thus they were saved.
- Let’s look at some passages that describe more fully what takes place in baptism…
Romans 6:1-4
- In baptism, we are united with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection.
- Through baptism, we die to sin and are raised to a new life.
|
Baptism into Christ (part I)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
- God’s plan to bring salvation to the world culminated in the death, burial and resurrection of his Son,Jesus Christ.
- This is the heart of the “gospel” or good news about Jesus.
- Draw picture - Through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is now available.
- In this study we will look at the Bible’s teaching about baptism, a crucial link between Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sins.
Acts 2:36-41
- The first proclamation of the good news of Jesus after his departure.
- What did Peter instruct those to do who believed the message about Jesus?
- When do we receive the forgiveness of sins? The Holy Spirit? (More on this later.)
- Those who accepted this message were baptized, thus they were saved.
- Let’s look at some passages that describe more fully what takes place in baptism…
Romans 6:1-4
- In baptism, we are united with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection.
- Through baptism, we die to sin and are raised to a new life.
|
Baptism into Christ (part I)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
- God’s plan to bring salvation to the world culminated in the death, burial and resurrection of his Son,Jesus Christ.
- This is the heart of the “gospel” or good news about Jesus.
- Draw picture - Through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is now available.
- In this study we will look at the Bible’s teaching about baptism, a crucial link between Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sins.
Acts 2:36-41
- The first proclamation of the good news of Jesus after his departure.
- What did Peter instruct those to do who believed the message about Jesus?
- When do we receive the forgiveness of sins? The Holy Spirit? (More on this later.)
- Those who accepted this message were baptized, thus they were saved.
- Let’s look at some passages that describe more fully what takes place in baptism…
Romans 6:1-4
- In baptism, we are united with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection.
- Through baptism, we die to sin and are raised to a new life.
|
Baptism into Christ (part I)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
- God’s plan to bring salvation to the world culminated in the death, burial and resurrection of his Son,Jesus Christ.
- This is the heart of the “gospel” or good news about Jesus.
- Draw picture - Through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is now available.
- In this study we will look at the Bible’s teaching about baptism, a crucial link between Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sins.
Acts 2:36-41
- The first proclamation of the good news of Jesus after his departure.
- What did Peter instruct those to do who believed the message about Jesus?
- When do we receive the forgiveness of sins? The Holy Spirit? (More on this later.)
- Those who accepted this message were baptized, thus they were saved.
- Let’s look at some passages that describe more fully what takes place in baptism…
Romans 6:1-4
- In baptism, we are united with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection.
- Through baptism, we die to sin and are raised to a new life.
|
Baptism into Christ (part I)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
- God’s plan to bring salvation to the world culminated in the death, burial and resurrection of his Son,Jesus Christ.
- This is the heart of the “gospel” or good news about Jesus.
- Draw picture - Through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is now available.
- In this study we will look at the Bible’s teaching about baptism, a crucial link between Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sins.
Acts 2:36-41
- The first proclamation of the good news of Jesus after his departure.
- What did Peter instruct those to do who believed the message about Jesus?
- When do we receive the forgiveness of sins? The Holy Spirit? (More on this later.)
- Those who accepted this message were baptized, thus they were saved.
- Let’s look at some passages that describe more fully what takes place in baptism…
Romans 6:1-4
- In baptism, we are united with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection.
- Through baptism, we die to sin and are raised to a new life.
|
Baptism into Christ (part I)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
- God’s plan to bring salvation to the world culminated in the death, burial and resurrection of his Son,Jesus Christ.
- This is the heart of the “gospel” or good news about Jesus.
- Draw picture - Through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is now available.
- In this study we will look at the Bible’s teaching about baptism, a crucial link between Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sins.
Acts 2:36-41
- The first proclamation of the good news of Jesus after his departure.
- What did Peter instruct those to do who believed the message about Jesus?
- When do we receive the forgiveness of sins? The Holy Spirit? (More on this later.)
- Those who accepted this message were baptized, thus they were saved.
- Let’s look at some passages that describe more fully what takes place in baptism…
Romans 6:1-4
- In baptism, we are united with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection.
- Through baptism, we die to sin and are raised to a new life.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Baptism into Christ (part III)
Sinner’s Prayer? 1 Peter 3:21
- Some claim that a person needs only to pray a “sinner’s prayer” or “ask Jesus into his/her heart” in order to be saved.
- This is the predominant view in the evangelical Christian world. However, this is not the message that was preached in the Book of Acts.
- Everyone was called to repentance, faith and baptism, and as Peter wrote here, “baptism now saves us” by the resurrection of Christ from the dead.
Acts 22:7-16
- After encountering Jesus, repenting, praying, fasting (Acts 9:9-11), being healed, and being called by God,
Paul remains in sin.
- What was left for him to do?
- Why the urgency - what is so pressing about the need for baptism?
- What remains for you to do or think about before you are ready to be united with Christ in baptism?
Finish picture - The benefits of salvation made available at the cross become real for us when we participate in his death, burial and
resurrection.
|
Discipleship (part I)
Acts 11:25-26
- To call oneself a Christian can mean many different things to people today.
- The name “Christian” was applied for the 1st time to disciples at Antioch, about 7 years after the beginning of the church.
- How many times is the word “Christian” used in NT? (Three times.)
- How many times is the word “disciple” used? (About 300 times.)
- What is a disciple? A disciple is a learner who strives to conform his thoughts, words and actions to those of his master.
- To understand what it means to live as a Christian today, we will start by looking at Jesus’ expectations for those who would be his disciples . . .
Mark 1:16-20
- Call of the first disciples: “Follow me.”
- A disciple asks himself, “What would Jesus do?” then strives to do it - regardless of the cost.
- A disciple of Jesus has the same purpose as Jesus: to be a fisher of men. What does this mean?
- What did they abandon to follow Jesus? Everything! (job, possessions, family)
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Discipleship (part I)
Acts 11:25-26
- To call oneself a Christian can mean many different things to people today.
- The name “Christian” was applied for the 1st time to disciples at Antioch, about 7 years after the beginning of the church.
- How many times is the word “Christian” used in NT? (Three times.)
- How many times is the word “disciple” used? (About 300 times.)
- What is a disciple? A disciple is a learner who strives to conform his thoughts, words and actions to those of his master.
- To understand what it means to live as a Christian today, we will start by looking at Jesus’ expectations for those who would be his disciples . . .
Mark 1:16-20
- Call of the first disciples: “Follow me.”
- A disciple asks himself, “What would Jesus do?” then strives to do it - regardless of the cost.
- A disciple of Jesus has the same purpose as Jesus: to be a fisher of men. What does this mean?
- What did they abandon to follow Jesus? Everything! (job, possessions, family)
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Church (part I)
Acts 2:40-47
- The first 3000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- A beautiful view of the early church. How would you like to be part of such a church?
Romans 12:1-8
- The church is a community of people
- devoted to God (vv1-2)
- belonging to one another (vv3-5)
- devoted to one another (vv 6-10).
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
- The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church.
- The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body.
- God himself has arranged it this way.
- We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body.
- How will you help build up the body of Christ?
|
Followup - Bible Study Application
How should we use God’s Word?
- James 1:22 - Do what it says!
- Acts 17:11 - Examine it daily
- Hebrews 4:12-13
- Use it to find what our hearts are really and change that which is not pleasing to God
- Use it as a “scalpel” to cut the sin in our lives and in the lives of others
- John 20:28, Romans 10:17 – Deepen our faith in Christ.
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Followup - Evangelism Boldness Matthew 5:13-16 - We must be salt and light
John 4:34 -The harvest is great. Believe it!
True disciples are consumed with making more disciples. - Acts 4:14, 4:20 4:33, 5:14, 5:21, 5:29, 5:41-42, 6:1, 6:7
Sources of Boldness:
- 2 Timothy 1:7 - The Holy Spirit
- 2 Corinthians 3:12 - Hope
- Romans 1:16, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 - Conviction
Acts 4:29-31 – Pray for it
Hindrances to boldness:
- Pride – being afraid of what others think
- Small convictions – not seeing people as lost
- Selfishness – not caring about the lost
- Faithlessness – doubting that the harvest is great
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Followup - Evangelism Boldness Matthew 5:13-16 - We must be salt and light
John 4:34 -The harvest is great. Believe it!
True disciples are consumed with making more disciples. - Acts 4:14, 4:20 4:33, 5:14, 5:21, 5:29, 5:41-42, 6:1, 6:7
Sources of Boldness:
- 2 Timothy 1:7 - The Holy Spirit
- 2 Corinthians 3:12 - Hope
- Romans 1:16, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 - Conviction
Acts 4:29-31 – Pray for it
Hindrances to boldness:
- Pride – being afraid of what others think
- Small convictions – not seeing people as lost
- Selfishness – not caring about the lost
- Faithlessness – doubting that the harvest is great
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Followup - Evangelism Boldness Matthew 5:13-16 - We must be salt and light
John 4:34 -The harvest is great. Believe it!
True disciples are consumed with making more disciples. - Acts 4:14, 4:20 4:33, 5:14, 5:21, 5:29, 5:41-42, 6:1, 6:7
Sources of Boldness:
- 2 Timothy 1:7 - The Holy Spirit
- 2 Corinthians 3:12 - Hope
- Romans 1:16, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 - Conviction
Acts 4:29-31 – Pray for it
Hindrances to boldness:
- Pride – being afraid of what others think
- Small convictions – not seeing people as lost
- Selfishness – not caring about the lost
- Faithlessness – doubting that the harvest is great
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Followup - Balanced Attitude and Application Attitude
How we should view God’s Word
- Matthew 4:4 - We need it to survive. Why do you eat every day? We need to “feed” ourselves daily on God’s Word
- Deuteronomy 33:44-47 - Not mere words but they are your life.
- John 12:47-48 - God will use it as the standard of judgment. Example: Final exam for college course - the test will be form the text.
Application
How should we use God’s Word?
- James 1:22 - Do what it says!
- Acts 17:11 - Examine it daily
- Hebrews 4:12-13
- Use it to find what our hearts are really and change that which is not pleasing to God
- Use it as a “scalpel” to cut the sin in our lives and in the lives of others
- John 20:28, Romans 10:17 – Deepen our faith in Christ.
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part I) A picture of the New Testament Church
Worship
- Singing - Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 3:19; James 5:13
- To teach
- To give thanks and express joy
- To make music and praise God
- The Lord’s Supper - 1 Corinthians 11:23-29
- To remember - v24
- To proclaim - v26
- To examine - v28-29
- On the first day of the week - Acts 20:7
- Prayer - 1 Timothy 2:1-8
- For peaceful and quiet lives (ie no persecution)
- With hands (ie a holy life)
- To advance the gospel - v4-6
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Followup - The New Testament Church (part II) A picture of the New Testament Church (continued)
4. Giving
- Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
- Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
- To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
- To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45
5. Preaching - 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Work
- Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
- Serving
- Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
- Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
- Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
- Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
- 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36
Conclusion
That God may be glorified in His church - Ephesians 3:21
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Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
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Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
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Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
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Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
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Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
|
Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
|
Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
|
Discipleship - Kansas City (part I) Purpose: To understand the Bible's definition of what a Christian is
Question: What is your definition of a Christian?
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-26
- Question: The disciples that were scattered began teaching the Greeks what? Good news about Jesus
- Question: What did Barnabas encourage people to do? Know an hold to Jesus' words
- Barnabas found Saul then brought him to Antioch so they could teach the Word of God (review)
- Question: In Antioch, the disciples of Jesus were called what for the 1st time? Why?
- A disciple of Jesus is WHAT they were. Christian is what the world labeled them
- Christian = Disciple = Saved
The Calling of Discipleship
Mark 1:14-20
- Question: What did Jesus proclaim in Galilee? What was the good news? Kingdom of God was near; your life can change)
- Question: What is the first thing Jesus instructed these fishermen to do? Follow him. What does that mean?
- Question: What will Jesus make us into? What does that mean? Is this something you are willing to do?
- Share what purpose your purpose was before becoming a disciple
- Question: What would you say your life has been focused/purpose so far?
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III)
Romans 6:23
- We deserve death because of our sins but God is willing to forgive us in spite of who we are (God's gift to us)
- Question: After studying these scriptures, would you say the Bible describes your heart in response to your sin more like the Pharisee or the Sinful woman?
John 3:1-7
- Question: What did Jesus say MUST happen in order for someone to be born again?
- Question: We should born of what? Spirtual birth not a physical birth - not being religous but living a righteous life
- Question: What do we need to have convictions on in order to be born again?
Acts 2:22-24
- Jesus is God's son (miracles prove it)
- Jesus died for our (YOUR) sins
- God raise Jesus on the 3rd day
- Question: So how should we respond to the fact that our (YOUR) is why Jesus died on the cross?
Acts 2:36-41
- Repent and be Baptized (wall is removed)
- Then we can have a relationship with God (what happens at baptism)
Romans 6:1-4
- Question: What are you baptized into? If you were baptized into Jesus' death, what else does that allow us to have? New Life
- You can go from the heart of the Pharisee to the heart of the Sinful Woman by understanding the forgiveness through Jesus
- Encouraged to write a letter to God thanking him for forgiving you of your sins (write the sins out)
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Counting the Cost (part II) Matthew 7:21-23
- Question: What do you think the heart of what Jesus is saying in these scriptures?
- Question: Biblically speaking, because someone goes to church does that make them a Christian? Are they a Christian because they are a good person? What if they know a lot about the Bible, does that make them a Christian?
- That means you are saying that the majority of people in the world are lost. How does that make you feel?
- Make God feel said but God has a plan for them - 1 Timothy 2:1-6
Do you believe that Jesus was the Son of God, died for your sins and rose on the 3rd day?
Acts 2:22-24
- v22 - The miracles Jesus did proves he was God's son
- v23 - He died on the cross for your sin
- v24 - God raised him from the dead
What is your good confession?
Romans 10:9-10
- Confess with your mouth (acknowledging God and everyone around you that you nor anything else will be the Lord of your life,expect Jesus)
- It is not the confession that justifies you, it is your heart that God is looking at.
Who will baptize you?
Who would you like to be there?
Let's meet 30 early so we can pray together
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Counting the Cost (part II) Matthew 7:21-23
- Question: What do you think the heart of what Jesus is saying in these scriptures?
- Question: Biblically speaking, because someone goes to church does that make them a Christian? Are they a Christian because they are a good person? What if they know a lot about the Bible, does that make them a Christian?
- That means you are saying that the majority of people in the world are lost. How does that make you feel?
- Make God feel said but God has a plan for them - 1 Timothy 2:1-6
Do you believe that Jesus was the Son of God, died for your sins and rose on the 3rd day?
Acts 2:22-24
- v22 - The miracles Jesus did proves he was God's son
- v23 - He died on the cross for your sin
- v24 - God raised him from the dead
What is your good confession?
Romans 10:9-10
- Confess with your mouth (acknowledging God and everyone around you that you nor anything else will be the Lord of your life,expect Jesus)
- It is not the confession that justifies you, it is your heart that God is looking at.
Who will baptize you?
Who would you like to be there?
Let's meet 30 early so we can pray together
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Counting the Cost (part II) Matthew 7:21-23
- Question: What do you think the heart of what Jesus is saying in these scriptures?
- Question: Biblically speaking, because someone goes to church does that make them a Christian? Are they a Christian because they are a good person? What if they know a lot about the Bible, does that make them a Christian?
- That means you are saying that the majority of people in the world are lost. How does that make you feel?
- Make God feel said but God has a plan for them - 1 Timothy 2:1-6
Do you believe that Jesus was the Son of God, died for your sins and rose on the 3rd day?
Acts 2:22-24
- v22 - The miracles Jesus did proves he was God's son
- v23 - He died on the cross for your sin
- v24 - God raised him from the dead
What is your good confession?
Romans 10:9-10
- Confess with your mouth (acknowledging God and everyone around you that you nor anything else will be the Lord of your life,expect Jesus)
- It is not the confession that justifies you, it is your heart that God is looking at.
Who will baptize you?
Who would you like to be there?
Let's meet 30 early so we can pray together
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Jesus is God (part III) Examples showing the deity of Jesus:
- Omnipotent over Disease - Matthew 8:1-4; Luke 4:39
- Omnipotent over Men - Matthew 9:9; John 17:2
- Omnipotent over Nature - Matthew 8:26
- Omnipotent over Sin - Matthew 9:1-8
- Omnipotent over Tradition - Matthew 9:10-17
- Prayed To Him (Stephen) - Acts 7:59
- Saves - John 10:28
- Sinless - 1 Peter 2:22; Hebrews 4:15
- Worshiped as God by Angels - Hebrews 1:6
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God Is (part V) Studying about God each day:
- Most Holy - Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8
- Most Free - Psalms 115:3
- Most Absolute - Isaiah 44:6; Acts 17:24-25
- Most Pure Spirit - John 4:24
- Most Loving - 1 John 4:8-10
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God Is (part V) Studying about God each day:
- Most Holy - Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8
- Most Free - Psalms 115:3
- Most Absolute - Isaiah 44:6; Acts 17:24-25
- Most Pure Spirit - John 4:24
- Most Loving - 1 John 4:8-10
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Names of Jesus (part VIII) Next part of the 'Names of Jesus':
- I AM - Exodus 3:14; John 8:58
- Immanuel - Matthew 1:23
- JEHOVAH - Isaiah 26:4
- Jesus - Matthew 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 1:10
- Judge of Israel - Micah 5:1
- Just One - Acts 7:52
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Names of Jesus (part XI) A daily study of the Jesus' names:
- Lord of all - Acts 10:36
- Lord of glory - 1 Corinthians 2:8
- Lord of Lords - Revelation 19:16
- Lord Our Righteouss - Jeremiah 23:6
- Mediator between God and men - 1 Timothy 2:5
- Messenger of the covenant - Malachi 3:1
- Messiah - Daniel 9:25; John 1:41
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Names of Jesus (part XIII) Reading through the Bible relating to Jesus' names:
- Plant of renown - Ezekiel 34:29
- Prince of life - Acts 3:15
- Prince of peace - Isaiah 9:6
- Prince of the kings of the earth - Revelation 1:5
- Prophet - Luke 24:19; John 7:40
- Ransom - 1 Timothy 2:6
- Redeemer - Job 19:25; Isaiah 59:20; 60:16
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Names of the Church (part I)
Starting to study the names of the church as
- Assembly of the saints - Psalms 89:7
- Assembly of the upright - Psalms 111:1
- Body of Christ - Ephesians 1:22,23; Colossians 1:24
- Branch of God's planting - Isaiah 60:21
- Bride of Christ - Revelation 21:9
- Church of God - Acts 20:28
- Church of the Living God - 1 Timothy 3:15
- Church of the first-born - Hebrews 12:23
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Names of the Believers (part I) Starting the study of the names of believers:
- Believers - Acts 5:14; 1 Timothy 4:12
- Beloved of God - Romans 1:7
- Beloved brethren - 1 Corinthians 15:58; James 2:5
- Blessed of the Lord - Genesis 24:31; 26:29
- Blessed of the Father - Matthew 25:34
- Brethren - Matthew 23:8; Acts 12:17
- Brethren of Christ - Luke 8:21; John 20:17
- Called of Jesus Christ - Romans 1:6
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Names of the Believers (part IV) Names given to the believers in the Bible
- Chosen generation - 1 Peter 2:9
- Chosen ones - 1 Chronicles 16:13
- Chosen vessels - Acts 9:15
- Christians - Acts 11:26; 26:28
- Dear children - Ephesians 5:1
- Disciples of Christ - John 8:31; 15:8
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Fearing God - Determines how we live (part I)
Fearing God is the most exalted endevors in our life
The highest reaches of becoming holy are realized only in the fear of God
Fearing God does not stop in the New Testament:
- 1 Peter 2:17 - Fear God
- Acts 9:31 - Live in the fear of the Lord
- 2 Corinthians 7:1 - Cleanse ourselves in the fear of the God
- Colossians 3:22 - Work should be done while fearing the Lord
The Spirit of God rested on the Messiah with the fear of the Lord and he delighted in it - Isaiah 11:1-3
If we would be like the Lord Jesus, we should delight in fearing the God
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Mind of Christ - Heavenly Mission (part VI) Paul employed at least five elements to accomplish this mission (continued) :
3. He kept his mind continually fixed on this objective:
- Acts 20:22-24 - It was everything to him to finish the race
- 2 Corinthians 11:28 - Felt daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches
- Colossians 1:28-29 - Struggled with all his energy
4. He followed the Lord’s plan of discipling people into the image of Jesus Christ - 2 Timothy 2:2
5. His own evangelism was constant
a. He utilized every opportunity.
b. He created opportunities for evangelism
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Mind of Christ - Heavenly Mission (part VI) Paul employed at least five elements to accomplish this mission (continued) :
3. He kept his mind continually fixed on this objective:
- Acts 20:22-24 - It was everything to him to finish the race
- 2 Corinthians 11:28 - Felt daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches
- Colossians 1:28-29 - Struggled with all his energy
4. He followed the Lord’s plan of discipling people into the image of Jesus Christ - 2 Timothy 2:2
5. His own evangelism was constant
a. He utilized every opportunity.
b. He created opportunities for evangelism
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Mind of Christ - Heavenly Mission (part VI) Paul employed at least five elements to accomplish this mission (continued) :
3. He kept his mind continually fixed on this objective:
- Acts 20:22-24 - It was everything to him to finish the race
- 2 Corinthians 11:28 - Felt daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches
- Colossians 1:28-29 - Struggled with all his energy
4. He followed the Lord’s plan of discipling people into the image of Jesus Christ - 2 Timothy 2:2
5. His own evangelism was constant
a. He utilized every opportunity.
b. He created opportunities for evangelism
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Mind of Christ - Heavenly Mission (part IX) We must employ at least five elements to accomplish this mission (continued):
3. We must keep our minds fixed on this objective:
- Acts 5:42 - Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news
- Acts 8:4 - Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.
4. We must follow the Lord’s plan of discipling people into the image of Christ.
- The principle involved here is called life-transference.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:8 - We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well
5. We must be constant in our own evangelism.
As with Jesus, so with us.
“Christ’s mission is the only reason for our being on earth; were it not for that, He would take us away”
~ Andrew Murray “A Like Christ”
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Mind of Christ - Heavenly Mission (part IX) We must employ at least five elements to accomplish this mission (continued):
3. We must keep our minds fixed on this objective:
- Acts 5:42 - Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news
- Acts 8:4 - Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.
4. We must follow the Lord’s plan of discipling people into the image of Christ.
- The principle involved here is called life-transference.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:8 - We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well
5. We must be constant in our own evangelism.
As with Jesus, so with us.
“Christ’s mission is the only reason for our being on earth; were it not for that, He would take us away”
~ Andrew Murray “A Like Christ”
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Mind of Christ - Servant, Washing Feet (part II) The washing of the disciples feet was illustrative of Christ’s life and ministry
- Acts 10:38 - How he went around doing good and healing all
- Mark 1:29-41, 6:30-56 - Taking care of the needs around him
- 2 Corinthians 8:9 - Became poor so we could become rich
- Philippians 2:6-8 - Taking on the nature of a servant
The washing of the disciples feet is illustrative of Christ’s death on the cross.
- Isaiah 53 - He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows
- Matthew 20:28 - Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve
- Galatians 1:4, 2:20 - Gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age
- Ephesians 5:2, 25 - Gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering
No calling we have received will make us more like Christ than that of being a servant
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Fearing God - His rule Job's attitude toward God in the beginning: It profits a man nothing when tries to please the God - Job 34:9
The Lord confronted him, "I will question you and you shall answer me - Job 38:2-3
Job 38-41 is a gallery of God's creative wisdom and power
What was Job's response?
I am unworthy - Job 40:4
God cares for His creation
He gives all men life and breath - Acts 17:25
He endows the heart with wisdom and gives understanding to the mind - Job 38:36
God governs His universe
He is the ruler of all things - 1 Chronicles 29:12
He does as he pleases - Daniel 4:35
Our plans depend entirely on him - Lamentations 3:37
God's rule is universal and absolute
A sparrow can not fall to the ground without His will - Matthew 10:29
Not one drop of rain falls without His command - Amos 4:7
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Fearing God - Mystery Too High God work contrary to how we would
God wisdom is infinite; ours in finite
We tend to assume we would understand if God would just explain
We don't believe that "his understanding no one can fathom - Isiah 40:28
On the road to Emmaus, they said "they hoped Jesus was the one going to redeem Israel - Luke 24:21
They did not understand what God was doing even doing even as it was unfolding
Unexplained setback may never be understood
Paul planned to sail to Rome and Spain but ended up in jail for 2 years - Acts 24:27
Humility should be a hallmark those who fear God
I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me - Psalms 131:1
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part II) John 13:34
- We must love each other the way Jesus loves us (unconditionally).
- How did Jesus love his disciples unconditionally (Peter, Judas, John, etc…)?
1 Peter 1:22-23
- Love each other deeply from the heart (not surface love)
- Share our insecurities (to not let Satan get a foot hold)
Acts 2:44-47 - Met each others needs (physically, emotionally and spiritually)
Colossians 1:28-29 - They discipled (trained) each other to be better disciples of Jesus.
Ephesians 4:29 - Built each other up (no gossip but encouragement)
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit to each other (husband, wife, leaders, etc…) because of Christ.
Remember we all have challenges from our past (personal, spiritual and family) but we are all born again into the family of God. God is the head of the family and we are all brothers and sisters.
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part II) John 13:34
- We must love each other the way Jesus loves us (unconditionally).
- How did Jesus love his disciples unconditionally (Peter, Judas, John, etc…)?
1 Peter 1:22-23
- Love each other deeply from the heart (not surface love)
- Share our insecurities (to not let Satan get a foot hold)
Acts 2:44-47 - Met each others needs (physically, emotionally and spiritually)
Colossians 1:28-29 - They discipled (trained) each other to be better disciples of Jesus.
Ephesians 4:29 - Built each other up (no gossip but encouragement)
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit to each other (husband, wife, leaders, etc…) because of Christ.
Remember we all have challenges from our past (personal, spiritual and family) but we are all born again into the family of God. God is the head of the family and we are all brothers and sisters.
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part II) John 13:34
- We must love each other the way Jesus loves us (unconditionally).
- How did Jesus love his disciples unconditionally (Peter, Judas, John, etc…)?
1 Peter 1:22-23
- Love each other deeply from the heart (not surface love)
- Share our insecurities (to not let Satan get a foot hold)
Acts 2:44-47 - Met each others needs (physically, emotionally and spiritually)
Colossians 1:28-29 - They discipled (trained) each other to be better disciples of Jesus.
Ephesians 4:29 - Built each other up (no gossip but encouragement)
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit to each other (husband, wife, leaders, etc…) because of Christ.
Remember we all have challenges from our past (personal, spiritual and family) but we are all born again into the family of God. God is the head of the family and we are all brothers and sisters.
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Followup: Relationships in the Body (part II) John 13:34
- We must love each other the way Jesus loves us (unconditionally).
- How did Jesus love his disciples unconditionally (Peter, Judas, John, etc…)?
1 Peter 1:22-23
- Love each other deeply from the heart (not surface love)
- Share our insecurities (to not let Satan get a foot hold)
Acts 2:44-47 - Met each others needs (physically, emotionally and spiritually)
Colossians 1:28-29 - They discipled (trained) each other to be better disciples of Jesus.
Ephesians 4:29 - Built each other up (no gossip but encouragement)
Ephesians 5:21 - Submit to each other (husband, wife, leaders, etc…) because of Christ.
Remember we all have challenges from our past (personal, spiritual and family) but we are all born again into the family of God. God is the head of the family and we are all brothers and sisters.
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Genesis 2 - Creation & Recreation Recap
Summary
God formed a man and gave him the garden in Eden, except for the tree of knowledge. Adam was alone so God made a woman as his partner.
Observations
Genesis 2:7 - from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life
From nothing, God created us. He even takes our language that is a collection of organized means and breathed [2 Timothy 3:16] it into living and active Holy scripture [Hebrews 4:12].
Genesis 2:15 - put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
Man's purpose in the garden was to work it and keep it up. God gives us work to do in step with what he desires. Work is good for glorify God, helping others, and helping us in our character. In [Acts 17:26], we learn that God determines the times and places we will live. It wasn't a random chance that Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden even with God's fore knowledge of Adam's sin.
Genesis 2:16 - You are free
The first words recorded spoken to man was "You are free". This is important because without freedom, love can not be fully expressed. God created man for Him to love and to be loved by man. What are we doing with the life and freedom God has given us? Does he feel the love?
Genesis 2:17 - you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil,
The sinful nature within us desires the opposite of what God wants. When it hears about something we can not do, that is the exact thing it desires to do.
Genesis 2:19 - whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name
With our freedom, we are given responsibilities. Instead of just telling us what the names of the animals and plants we, God gave Adam the task and freedom to do so. We need to remember all the things God intrusts us with and give it our all.
Personal Application
Many times I look for ways on how to automate work (it is part of the work I do as part of my career) but sometimes lose sight that work is what I am suppose to be doing. When automating tasks, I need to make sure I am using my additional time to do even more useful things that God has called me to do.
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Genesis 5 - Genealogies (part I)
Summary
Adam's line was: Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech and Noah. Noah's sons were Shem, Ham and Japheth.
Observations
Genesis 5:2 - He created them male and female and blessed them
It has always been God's intention to bless each and every one of us. And we do have many blessings!! But do we see them? We can not be grateful toward God unless we step back and look at all the great things he has done for us.
Genesis 5:22 - Enoch walked with God 300 years
Through the family line which is described here, God stops the pattern of listing the names of children and ages of important events to mention Enoch's walk with God. Because of the obvious age limitations we have today, It was a walk longer than we will ever see with God on this earth - probably greater than 4 times. Can you imagine the faith and persistence he must have had?
Genesis 5:24 - then he was no more, because God took him away
Enoch did not see death but rather he was taken up to heaven. Along with Elijah [2 Kings 2:11], they were are the only two mentioned in the Bible to have gone directly to see him. How and why this happened, I am not sure but it does show God felt these relationship were very special to Him.
Personal Application
The challenge for me is simple: To finish the race [Acts 20:24] with great faith and perseverance. But not just to get by but to have a relationship with God that shines before others. When people talk about me, do they stop and mention my relationship with God like the Bible does with Enoch? What does God say about my faith?
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Prayer of the Righeous - Knowing God through His Word (part II)
Bible Study Disciplines
Mark up your Bible in to different themes:
Example subjects:
- Blue = God's qualities
- Yellow = Love
- Green = Sin and righteousness
- Pink = prayer and faith
- Purple = Joy
- Orange = evangelism and discipling
- Megenta = the spiritual world
Might circle references to God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit
Read the whole Bible every year
Foucused study on indivdual books and passages are good but it also important to have the broad picture of God's revelation ingrained in our hearts
Read the Bible everyday
Jesus lived on every word that came from the mouth of God - Matthew 4:4
The law required the kings of Israel to recopy and read out loud all the days of their lives - Deuteronomy 17:18-20
Bereans examined the scriptures every day - Acts 17:10-12
Memorize key verses
Memorizing scripture helps us to talk to God using quoted scripture (God's language) and keeps us pursuing righteousness
I have hideen tyour word in my heart so I might not sin against you - Psalms 119:11
Proverbs 22 advises to have the Proverbs ready on our lips
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Prayer of the Righeous - Knowing God through His Word (part II)
Bible Study Disciplines
Mark up your Bible in to different themes:
Example subjects:
- Blue = God's qualities
- Yellow = Love
- Green = Sin and righteousness
- Pink = prayer and faith
- Purple = Joy
- Orange = evangelism and discipling
- Megenta = the spiritual world
Might circle references to God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit
Read the whole Bible every year
Foucused study on indivdual books and passages are good but it also important to have the broad picture of God's revelation ingrained in our hearts
Read the Bible everyday
Jesus lived on every word that came from the mouth of God - Matthew 4:4
The law required the kings of Israel to recopy and read out loud all the days of their lives - Deuteronomy 17:18-20
Bereans examined the scriptures every day - Acts 17:10-12
Memorize key verses
Memorizing scripture helps us to talk to God using quoted scripture (God's language) and keeps us pursuing righteousness
I have hideen tyour word in my heart so I might not sin against you - Psalms 119:11
Proverbs 22 advises to have the Proverbs ready on our lips
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Prayer of the Righeous - Knowing God through His Word (part II)
Bible Study Disciplines
Mark up your Bible in to different themes:
Example subjects:
- Blue = God's qualities
- Yellow = Love
- Green = Sin and righteousness
- Pink = prayer and faith
- Purple = Joy
- Orange = evangelism and discipling
- Megenta = the spiritual world
Might circle references to God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit
Read the whole Bible every year
Foucused study on indivdual books and passages are good but it also important to have the broad picture of God's revelation ingrained in our hearts
Read the Bible everyday
Jesus lived on every word that came from the mouth of God - Matthew 4:4
The law required the kings of Israel to recopy and read out loud all the days of their lives - Deuteronomy 17:18-20
Bereans examined the scriptures every day - Acts 17:10-12
Memorize key verses
Memorizing scripture helps us to talk to God using quoted scripture (God's language) and keeps us pursuing righteousness
I have hideen tyour word in my heart so I might not sin against you - Psalms 119:11
Proverbs 22 advises to have the Proverbs ready on our lips
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Mind Change - Dreams Never lose your dream.
If one gets taken away, seek another one.
God is not through with you.
He still has plans.
When he closes one door, he opens another.
Acts 16:10 - A door opened in Macedonia for Paul
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part I) The first few weeks of your new life as a disciple are crucial. Satan is angry because of his loss and God’s gain and he will make an effort to get you off-track as soon as possible. (Revelation 12:7-12) This study will help you get off to a fast start and help you have the right focus to stay close to God and keep the devil at a distance.
Remember what has just happened
- Romans 6:1-4 - You have begun a brand new life; you were born again (John 3:1-5)
- Acts 2:36-41 - Every one of your sins has been forgiven and forgotten (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
- Galatians 3:26-28 - The blood of Christ you received at baptism now covers and protects you.
- Ephesians 1:13-14 - You received the Holy Spirit who gives you power (Romans 8:5-11)
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - You have been added to the body; enjoy your new family
Remember what got you to this point
- Ephesians 4:17~24 - You humbled yourself and let others teach and challenge you – keep it up
- Acts 19:17-20 - You were completely open with your sins – keep it up
- Romans 6:17-18 - You obeyed the Bible teaching when you saw it – keep it up
- Hebrews 3:12-14 - You spent good quality time with other disciples - keep it up
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Getting Started (part II)
Remember the battle you entered
- Ephesians 6:10-18 - Satan is after you; don’t be surprised if he attacks you
- Deuteronomy 8:1-5 - God will allow you to be tested
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 - Any test from God will not be beyond what you can handle
Remember what you promised
- Colossians 3:1-10 - That you would die to your sins and fight against them
- Acts 9:17-22 - That you would make an effort to reach out to others (make a list of who)
- Matthew 22:34-40 - That you would love God and strive to get close to Him (make a prayer list)
- Hebrews 10:19-25 - That you would be a part of the church and come to encourage (calendar)
The key to successful first few weeks as a disciple is relationships. Make some specific decisions about how you will stay close to God and the other disciples in your life. Decide as well to get to know some other disciples and start sharing your new-found love for God with those you know and love. You will find that you will have good days, but remember – you’re just getting started.
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Grace (part I) Sometimes, one of the most difficult truths to understand as a young disciple is grace. So much confusion exist in the religious world on this topic so it is critical that you have a correct, Biblical understanding of the this powerful truth. Obviously, God wants us to thoroughly enjoy the grace He has given us and will continue to give us as disciples. However, we must feel a responsibility to live for Him in response to His grace.
Grace allowed you to be spared when you weren’t pursuing God
- Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
- Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance
Grace was given to you at your baptism
- Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
- Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
- Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace
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Day 3 - Growing Roots Luke 8:13 - What happens to young disciples who don't grow roots?
Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37
- What helped to keep these young disciples faithful?
- Are you devoting yourself to the same things they did (2:42)?
1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
- What does it mean to have "deep conviction"? How can you develop conviction?
- Who should you imitate? In what ways?
- Are you becoming a "model" to others? How?
APPLICATION: Spend time this week with Christians you can imitate/encourage/learn from.
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Day 3 - Growing Roots Luke 8:13 - What happens to young disciples who don't grow roots?
Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37
- What helped to keep these young disciples faithful?
- Are you devoting yourself to the same things they did (2:42)?
1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
- What does it mean to have "deep conviction"? How can you develop conviction?
- Who should you imitate? In what ways?
- Are you becoming a "model" to others? How?
APPLICATION: Spend time this week with Christians you can imitate/encourage/learn from.
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Day 3 - Growing Roots Luke 8:13 - What happens to young disciples who don't grow roots?
Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37
- What helped to keep these young disciples faithful?
- Are you devoting yourself to the same things they did (2:42)?
1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
- What does it mean to have "deep conviction"? How can you develop conviction?
- Who should you imitate? In what ways?
- Are you becoming a "model" to others? How?
APPLICATION: Spend time this week with Christians you can imitate/encourage/learn from.
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Day 3 - Growing Roots Luke 8:13 - What happens to young disciples who don't grow roots?
Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37
- What helped to keep these young disciples faithful?
- Are you devoting yourself to the same things they did (2:42)?
1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
- What does it mean to have "deep conviction"? How can you develop conviction?
- Who should you imitate? In what ways?
- Are you becoming a "model" to others? How?
APPLICATION: Spend time this week with Christians you can imitate/encourage/learn from.
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Day 3 - Growing Roots Luke 8:13 - What happens to young disciples who don't grow roots?
Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37
- What helped to keep these young disciples faithful?
- Are you devoting yourself to the same things they did (2:42)?
1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
- What does it mean to have "deep conviction"? How can you develop conviction?
- Who should you imitate? In what ways?
- Are you becoming a "model" to others? How?
APPLICATION: Spend time this week with Christians you can imitate/encourage/learn from.
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Day 3 - Growing Roots Luke 8:13 - What happens to young disciples who don't grow roots?
Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37
- What helped to keep these young disciples faithful?
- Are you devoting yourself to the same things they did (2:42)?
1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
- What does it mean to have "deep conviction"? How can you develop conviction?
- Who should you imitate? In what ways?
- Are you becoming a "model" to others? How?
APPLICATION: Spend time this week with Christians you can imitate/encourage/learn from.
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Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
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Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
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Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
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Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 16 - Saved to Save 1 Peter 2:9-10
- What does it mean to be a royal priesthood?
- What message should you be sharing?
- Are you really declaring God's praises or just giving out an invitation?
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- How can you tell if you're living for yourself or living for Jesus?
- What does it mean to be Christ's ambassador?
- Would Jesus be pleased with the way you present him?
- What does it mean to APPEAL to and IMPLORE people?
- What attitude should you have toward the lost?
Acts 17:16-34
- Why was Paul distressed?
- What are some sights around your city that should distress you?
- Where did Paul share his faith?
- Why did Paul begin his message by commending the Athenians for being very religious?
- What does this teach you about preaching Paul's message?
Application: Write at least 4 things you have learned today about evangelism from this study. Share your faith with these things in mind.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
|
Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 21 - Rejoice in Persecutions Matthew 5:10-11
- What should make us rejoice in persecutions?
- Have people insulted or spoken evil of you because of Jesus?
- How did you feel?
- Who else has been treated this way?
John 15:18-23
- How should we expect to be treated?
- Why does the world hate us?
- What makes people feel guilty when they see us become disciples?
Acts 4:13-22
- What made Peter and John so bold?
- Has anyone tried to stop you from teaching, speaking or worshiping Jesus?
- How have you responded?
Acts 5:17-29
- Jesus was persecuted out of envy (MARK 15:10); the apostles were arrested out of jealousy.
- Why will we be persecuted or slandered?
- By whom?
- What was the apostles' reply when they were told to stop?
Acts 5:40-42 - What made the apostles happy?
Application: Let verse 42 be your theme today and every day.
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Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
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Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
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Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
|
Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
|
Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
|
Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
|
Day 22 - Giving Living ~John 13:1-17
- How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
- What was he trying to teach his disciples?
- How can we obey verse 17?
- Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
- Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
- Who were her "special friends"?
- Why do you think she did so much for them?
- If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
- What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
- What made Timothy different from the others?
- What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
- How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.
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Prayer of the Righeous - God is Running Prayer starts with the right view of God
Our God runs through the field over the hills searching for us with all of his heart
He thinks we are worth it - when we understand this, it is much easier to pray
Jesus traveled all the way from heaven to come
Just to give us a chance to be saved
He then arranges the times and places for us to reach out for him - Acts 17:26-27
He is not far from each one of us
How did your experiences growing up shape your view of God?
How has your view changed of God since your baptism?
How did God run after you?
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Prayer of the Righeous - God is Running Prayer starts with the right view of God
Our God runs through the field over the hills searching for us with all of his heart
He thinks we are worth it - when we understand this, it is much easier to pray
Jesus traveled all the way from heaven to come
Just to give us a chance to be saved
He then arranges the times and places for us to reach out for him - Acts 17:26-27
He is not far from each one of us
How did your experiences growing up shape your view of God?
How has your view changed of God since your baptism?
How did God run after you?
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Prayer of the Righeous - Arms Wide Open (part II) The lost son took his first steps home and was ready to apologize
Father perhaps had been scanning the horizon day after day - Luke 15:20
Until one day his dream came true
The celebration spared no expense - Luke 15:22-24
He welcomes sinners who do not deserve it - it is how he feels about us
Jesus literally opened wide his arms for us on the cross
He opens his arms for us all day long - Romans 10:21
Peter, at Pentecost, pleaded with the people to be saved on God's behalf - Acts 2:40
God's heart cares deeply for us
His heart was filled with pain during the time of Noah - Genesis 6:6
His heart is in that same way now - Luke 17:26
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Prayer of the Righeous - More Powerful Than We Can Imagine (part I)
The power that raise Jesus from the dead is available for us who believe
When we begin to understand how powerful God is, it will revolutionize our prayer lives
The Bible resonates with the awesome power of God:
- The highest heavens cannot contain you - 2 Chronicles 6:18
- He is outside of time - Psalms 90:1-2
- The clouds are dust of his feet - Nahum 1:3
- God has made everything we see and all that we can not
God is nowhere need us as far as this power but on person level he is wants to be right next to us:
- Yet he is not far from each one of us - Acts 17:27
- He reveals his thoughts to man - Amos 4:13
- God knows us completely - Psalms 38:9
Human power is nothing in the face of God's awesome power
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Becoming a Chain Breaker (part I)
Men need to realize how much is at stake
It is important to resolve which man you will become.
Live for yourself and lose so many of the incredible rewards or the one who breaks the chain and creates a new legacy for your family
We need to ask God to break the chains in our lives and from our past
Chain breakers - men who break away from anything holding us back
Chain breakers are the ones God uses to end the legacy of rebellion against God
Children are not punished for the sins of their parents, they are definitely affected and negatively influenced by them.
Unless we break free from our family weaknesses by the power of God—by seeking Him, trusting Him, and following Him instead.
God is the One who established your family of origin - Psalms 139:13–16
For that a reason—so that you would seek Him and ultimately find Him.
You matter the circumstances of your birth, you were not an accident - Acts 17:24-27
Though you may not have understood your path, God has been guiding your steps.
If you were to know everything God knows, you wouldn’t have had it any other way.
You could be the very one God has strategically placed in your family to turn things around.
Chains present in all of our lives:
- from nature—our inbred sinful nature
- from choices—sins we commit ourselves
- from nurture—hurtful examples, lies, and worldly traditions we follow
God is the ultimate Chain Breaker
Jesus was sent “to proclaim release to the captives” and “to set free those who are oppressed” - Luke 4:18
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Becoming a Chain Breaker (part I)
Men need to realize how much is at stake
It is important to resolve which man you will become.
Live for yourself and lose so many of the incredible rewards or the one who breaks the chain and creates a new legacy for your family
We need to ask God to break the chains in our lives and from our past
Chain breakers - men who break away from anything holding us back
Chain breakers are the ones God uses to end the legacy of rebellion against God
Children are not punished for the sins of their parents, they are definitely affected and negatively influenced by them.
Unless we break free from our family weaknesses by the power of God—by seeking Him, trusting Him, and following Him instead.
God is the One who established your family of origin - Psalms 139:13–16
For that a reason—so that you would seek Him and ultimately find Him.
You matter the circumstances of your birth, you were not an accident - Acts 17:24-27
Though you may not have understood your path, God has been guiding your steps.
If you were to know everything God knows, you wouldn’t have had it any other way.
You could be the very one God has strategically placed in your family to turn things around.
Chains present in all of our lives:
- from nature—our inbred sinful nature
- from choices—sins we commit ourselves
- from nurture—hurtful examples, lies, and worldly traditions we follow
God is the ultimate Chain Breaker
Jesus was sent “to proclaim release to the captives” and “to set free those who are oppressed” - Luke 4:18
|
Becoming a Chain Breaker (part I)
Men need to realize how much is at stake
It is important to resolve which man you will become.
Live for yourself and lose so many of the incredible rewards or the one who breaks the chain and creates a new legacy for your family
We need to ask God to break the chains in our lives and from our past
Chain breakers - men who break away from anything holding us back
Chain breakers are the ones God uses to end the legacy of rebellion against God
Children are not punished for the sins of their parents, they are definitely affected and negatively influenced by them.
Unless we break free from our family weaknesses by the power of God—by seeking Him, trusting Him, and following Him instead.
God is the One who established your family of origin - Psalms 139:13–16
For that a reason—so that you would seek Him and ultimately find Him.
You matter the circumstances of your birth, you were not an accident - Acts 17:24-27
Though you may not have understood your path, God has been guiding your steps.
If you were to know everything God knows, you wouldn’t have had it any other way.
You could be the very one God has strategically placed in your family to turn things around.
Chains present in all of our lives:
- from nature—our inbred sinful nature
- from choices—sins we commit ourselves
- from nurture—hurtful examples, lies, and worldly traditions we follow
God is the ultimate Chain Breaker
Jesus was sent “to proclaim release to the captives” and “to set free those who are oppressed” - Luke 4:18
|
Becoming a Chain Breaker (part I)
Men need to realize how much is at stake
It is important to resolve which man you will become.
Live for yourself and lose so many of the incredible rewards or the one who breaks the chain and creates a new legacy for your family
We need to ask God to break the chains in our lives and from our past
Chain breakers - men who break away from anything holding us back
Chain breakers are the ones God uses to end the legacy of rebellion against God
Children are not punished for the sins of their parents, they are definitely affected and negatively influenced by them.
Unless we break free from our family weaknesses by the power of God—by seeking Him, trusting Him, and following Him instead.
God is the One who established your family of origin - Psalms 139:13–16
For that a reason—so that you would seek Him and ultimately find Him.
You matter the circumstances of your birth, you were not an accident - Acts 17:24-27
Though you may not have understood your path, God has been guiding your steps.
If you were to know everything God knows, you wouldn’t have had it any other way.
You could be the very one God has strategically placed in your family to turn things around.
Chains present in all of our lives:
- from nature—our inbred sinful nature
- from choices—sins we commit ourselves
- from nurture—hurtful examples, lies, and worldly traditions we follow
God is the ultimate Chain Breaker
Jesus was sent “to proclaim release to the captives” and “to set free those who are oppressed” - Luke 4:18
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Train Them to Honor Authority (part I)
Honor is attractive
- It doesn’t demand respect; it quickly earns it.
- Fear grounds us.
- Honor inspires us.
The whole concept of authority comes from God.
Earthly authority is His design and tool for creating order and for keeping us accountable and responsible, for honoring good and for punishing evil - Romans 13:1-4
Authorities on earth help keep us mindful of His superior, eternal authority
God can turn the heart of anyone in a leadership position in any direction - Proverbs 21:1
We should be like Jesus and submit to our imperfect, human authorities knowing that God uses them to carry out His purposes - John 19:11
The only time we should not submit to them is when they are asking us to disobey God and sin - Acts 5:29
Notice that Scripture does not tell us to obey them only if we agree with their judgment - Hebrews 13:17-18
When dishonoring authority, you are not rebelling against an individual but against God Himself.
Handling and responding to authority is serious business.
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It's Not Over
Quick, get up! And the chains fell off his wrist - Acts 12:7
It is not over unitl God says it is over
Herod wanted Peter dead and had murdered other believers
Peter must have wondered how many hours were left. God had a different plan.
An angel appeared, awoke him, released hi, led him past 16 armed guard without notice
Peter couldn't fully understand what happened but God had set him free
The man of God is immortal until God chooses to take him home
What impossible situation are you facing?
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Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
|
Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
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Spirit of Encouragement
They sent Barnabas who was filled with joy and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord - Acts 11:22-23
Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement"
He specialized in encouragement
- Barnabas persuaded the believers to accept the Pharisee Saul as one of their own - Acts 2:26-28
- He encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord (as seen above)
- Barnabas encouraged Pauls during his travels - Acts 13-14
- He invested in a voung believer named John Mark - Acts 15:36-39
Barbabas was drawn to those who needed a positive word
How was he the source of encouragement?
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith - Acts 11:24
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Moving On
Barnabas wanted to bring John Mark; Paul did not - Acts 15:37-38
Edison tried several thousand time before creating the light bulb.
Reguarding failure as opportunity for growth encourages you to keeping going
John Mark returned home during the last trip because of possibly because he was frightened, discouraged, or homesick - Acts 13:13
Barnabas wanted to give him another chance; Paul disagreed and brought along Silas
John Mark matured and eventually Paul recongnized him as a effective minister of the gospel - 2 Timothy 4:11
Do you believe your past failures disqualify you from effective service in the church?
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Moving On
Barnabas wanted to bring John Mark; Paul did not - Acts 15:37-38
Edison tried several thousand time before creating the light bulb.
Reguarding failure as opportunity for growth encourages you to keeping going
John Mark returned home during the last trip because of possibly because he was frightened, discouraged, or homesick - Acts 13:13
Barnabas wanted to give him another chance; Paul disagreed and brought along Silas
John Mark matured and eventually Paul recongnized him as a effective minister of the gospel - 2 Timothy 4:11
Do you believe your past failures disqualify you from effective service in the church?
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Moving On
Barnabas wanted to bring John Mark; Paul did not - Acts 15:37-38
Edison tried several thousand time before creating the light bulb.
Reguarding failure as opportunity for growth encourages you to keeping going
John Mark returned home during the last trip because of possibly because he was frightened, discouraged, or homesick - Acts 13:13
Barnabas wanted to give him another chance; Paul disagreed and brought along Silas
John Mark matured and eventually Paul recongnized him as a effective minister of the gospel - 2 Timothy 4:11
Do you believe your past failures disqualify you from effective service in the church?
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Powerful Testimony
He jumped up, stood on his feet and began to walk - Acts 3:7-8
That is the power of a transformed life
This man was not looking for a miracle
The apostles had no money to give him but they did not leave him empty handed
Get up your mat and walk and he took off running and leaped and praise God
Thousands likely turned to Jesus Christ from the personal testimony of one man - Acts 4:4
A changed life is a powerful testimony to the reality of the gospel
You may not feel qualified to a large crowd about Bible doctrine or deep theology but can certainly testify to what God is doing in your life
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Powerful Testimony
He jumped up, stood on his feet and began to walk - Acts 3:7-8
That is the power of a transformed life
This man was not looking for a miracle
The apostles had no money to give him but they did not leave him empty handed
Get up your mat and walk and he took off running and leaped and praise God
Thousands likely turned to Jesus Christ from the personal testimony of one man - Acts 4:4
A changed life is a powerful testimony to the reality of the gospel
You may not feel qualified to a large crowd about Bible doctrine or deep theology but can certainly testify to what God is doing in your life
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Powerful Testimony
He jumped up, stood on his feet and began to walk - Acts 3:7-8
That is the power of a transformed life
This man was not looking for a miracle
The apostles had no money to give him but they did not leave him empty handed
Get up your mat and walk and he took off running and leaped and praise God
Thousands likely turned to Jesus Christ from the personal testimony of one man - Acts 4:4
A changed life is a powerful testimony to the reality of the gospel
You may not feel qualified to a large crowd about Bible doctrine or deep theology but can certainly testify to what God is doing in your life
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High VIsibility
Crispus and everyone in his household believed in the Lord - Acts 18:8
High visibility can have rewards for those who stand out in the crowd
Why does the Bible mention Crispus and no one else? Crispus led the Corinthian synagogue
Paul baptized him and his family members also followed in his footsteps
Noteworthness came him taking a stand in a place where doing so could cause him big problems in a time when professing faith in Jesus was very dangerous
He was willing to stand out for his faith reguardless of the cost
Do you have the courage to stand out in your world?
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Generous Man
Cornelius
He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God - Acts 10:1-2
Cornelius was a busy captain of a Roman regiment and head of his family
God honored Cornelius' generousity and Lord sent an angel - your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God - Acts 10:4
He became the first Gentile covert to Christ
When you give generously to those in need, you put yourself in a position to receive good things from God
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Generous Man
Cornelius
He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God - Acts 10:1-2
Cornelius was a busy captain of a Roman regiment and head of his family
God honored Cornelius' generousity and Lord sent an angel - your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God - Acts 10:4
He became the first Gentile covert to Christ
When you give generously to those in need, you put yourself in a position to receive good things from God
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Generous Man
Cornelius
He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God - Acts 10:1-2
Cornelius was a busy captain of a Roman regiment and head of his family
God honored Cornelius' generousity and Lord sent an angel - your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God - Acts 10:4
He became the first Gentile covert to Christ
When you give generously to those in need, you put yourself in a position to receive good things from God
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God's GPS
The Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time - Acts 16:6
It very important to know where God wants you to go, how to get there, and what to do once you have arrived
Bible does not say why God didn't want Paul and Silas in Asia at that time or how the Holy Spirit prevented them
The Holy Spirit faithfully guided Paul and Silas and the rest of those he had called to preach
The key is to be in tune with him by faithfully follwoing the guidance he has already made clear to you
When you follow the lead of the Holy Spirit, you can know without a doubt that you are right where he wants you
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Reporting
We can not stop telling about what we have seen and heard - Acts 4:20
Peter and John at this point did not have fear about sharing about Jesus
- Heard exceptional preaching
- Had seen impressive miracles
- Demons casted out
- Sick healed
- Dead raised
- Storms calmed
- Empty tomb
- Resurrected Jesus
Peter and John spoke respectfully even humbly to the religous authorities who had thrown them into prision
They were on a mission to share Jesus and would not allow anything to stop them
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Shining Lamp
Full of the Holy Spirit, Stephen gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God - Acts 7:55
Nothing prompts change likea man's courage in the face of potential personal loss. Stephen had that kind of courage.
Religous leaders hoped persecuting Christians would put a stop to this new religious movement, exactly the opposite happened
Stephen willingly died for what he believed in and he contributed greatly to the spread of the gospel message
At the scene of Stephen's murder stood a young Pharisee named Saul - the same Saul God miraculously converted
Stephen's courage and faith in the face of death apparently made a lasting impression
Pauls bold preaching would change the world forever - Acts 22:19-20
Lamps do not talk, but they do shine. Is your lamp shining today?
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Shining Lamp
Full of the Holy Spirit, Stephen gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God - Acts 7:55
Nothing prompts change likea man's courage in the face of potential personal loss. Stephen had that kind of courage.
Religous leaders hoped persecuting Christians would put a stop to this new religious movement, exactly the opposite happened
Stephen willingly died for what he believed in and he contributed greatly to the spread of the gospel message
At the scene of Stephen's murder stood a young Pharisee named Saul - the same Saul God miraculously converted
Stephen's courage and faith in the face of death apparently made a lasting impression
Pauls bold preaching would change the world forever - Acts 22:19-20
Lamps do not talk, but they do shine. Is your lamp shining today?
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Shining Lamp
Full of the Holy Spirit, Stephen gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God - Acts 7:55
Nothing prompts change likea man's courage in the face of potential personal loss. Stephen had that kind of courage.
Religous leaders hoped persecuting Christians would put a stop to this new religious movement, exactly the opposite happened
Stephen willingly died for what he believed in and he contributed greatly to the spread of the gospel message
At the scene of Stephen's murder stood a young Pharisee named Saul - the same Saul God miraculously converted
Stephen's courage and faith in the face of death apparently made a lasting impression
Pauls bold preaching would change the world forever - Acts 22:19-20
Lamps do not talk, but they do shine. Is your lamp shining today?
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Passion for God's Word
He taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accurcy - Acts 18:25
Apollos loved to teach the Word of God in the synagogues
His limitation was he did not fully understand the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection
He finally received understanding from Aquila and Priscilla and from then on, Apollos cound not stop
He moved to Corinth to be with Paul and some of the believers credited him with starting the church - 1 Corinthians 1
Apollos became a great teacher and preacher because he had the passion for God's Word that all men of God need
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Believers is Jesus
Saul! Why are you persecuting me? - Acts 9:4
Why you bless the believers, you bless Jesus; When you persecute the believers, you persecute the Savior who calls them brothers - Matthew 12:49
Saul believed in his heart that he was doing God's work by shuting down a new religous movement
All that changed when he heard Jesus' voice tell me he was hurting
- Jesus
- Invdividual Christians
- Christian community
When you felt tempted to speak harshly or say something hurtful, remember that Christ call his own brother
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Make the Most of It
Publius' father was ill; Pual went in and prayed for him and laying hands on him, he was healed - Acts 28:7-8
Paul was in a place where he could have used some rest and relaxation
He travel to Rome but became shiprecked at Malta - a beautiful place which remains a popular tourist destination today
You would think Paul might have taken a break during this opportunity but his commitment motivated him to make best use every moment God gave thim
Paul did the same thing he did on his previous missionary journeys:
- Healed the sick
- Preach the Word of God
- Planted seeds of faith
Make the best use of every moment God gives you, whatever your situation
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Make the Most of It
Publius' father was ill; Pual went in and prayed for him and laying hands on him, he was healed - Acts 28:7-8
Paul was in a place where he could have used some rest and relaxation
He travel to Rome but became shiprecked at Malta - a beautiful place which remains a popular tourist destination today
You would think Paul might have taken a break during this opportunity but his commitment motivated him to make best use every moment God gave thim
Paul did the same thing he did on his previous missionary journeys:
- Healed the sick
- Preach the Word of God
- Planted seeds of faith
Make the best use of every moment God gives you, whatever your situation
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Your Smallness
It's the voice of a god, not of a man - Acts 12:22
It is easy to recoginze a man who does not realize his own smallness
He is one of with an air of self-sufficiency and self-satisfaction
Herod was known for his terrible treatment of his subjects and his uncontrolled egotism (a quality that cost him everything)
When a delegation of men from Tyre and Sidon, they stroked Herod's ego and he accepted their adulation
That day, Herod usurped the worship that God reserved for himself; Herod's life ended that day
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Procrastination
Go away for now; When it is more convenient, I'll call for you again - Acts 24:25
Procrastination is a great enemy of accomplishment
It prevents you from being all that God wants you to be
Felix had an opportunity to repsond to the message of salvation but he allowed his fears to drive him away from Christ instead of toward him
Tragically, the "more convenient" time never came
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Say Something Good
We found this man to be a troublemaker who is constantly stirring up riots - Acts 24:5
Bible repeatedly commands believers to use words to build others up rather than tear them down
Tertullus was a Jewish advocate before the Roman government and went out of his way to tear others down
He wanted to stop all the preaching about Jesus
Tertullus accused Paul of disturbing the peace throughout the Roman Empire
He intented to have Paul imprisioned or even killed
Before you say something about another person, ask yourself if you are tearing down or building up
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Risk Assessment
Many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers - Acts 9:13-14
God had geiven Ananias an assignmen that mad him very uncomfortable
Saul's sole purpose in coming to Damascus had been to persecute him and the other believers
Ananias remined God of the terrible things Saul had done but God did not relent
He intended for Saul to take his message of salvation to both Gentiles and Jews - Acts 9:15
Ananias weighed the risks and knew that the benefits of obedience far outwieghted anything he feared
Because he obeyed, he was able to play a supporting role in God's plan to spread the gospel throughout the world
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Risk Assessment
Many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers - Acts 9:13-14
God had geiven Ananias an assignmen that mad him very uncomfortable
Saul's sole purpose in coming to Damascus had been to persecute him and the other believers
Ananias remined God of the terrible things Saul had done but God did not relent
He intended for Saul to take his message of salvation to both Gentiles and Jews - Acts 9:15
Ananias weighed the risks and knew that the benefits of obedience far outwieghted anything he feared
Because he obeyed, he was able to play a supporting role in God's plan to spread the gospel throughout the world
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Risk Assessment
Many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers - Acts 9:13-14
God had geiven Ananias an assignmen that mad him very uncomfortable
Saul's sole purpose in coming to Damascus had been to persecute him and the other believers
Ananias remined God of the terrible things Saul had done but God did not relent
He intended for Saul to take his message of salvation to both Gentiles and Jews - Acts 9:15
Ananias weighed the risks and knew that the benefits of obedience far outwieghted anything he feared
Because he obeyed, he was able to play a supporting role in God's plan to spread the gospel throughout the world
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What God Sees
God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone impure or unclean
People are good at making distinctions about race, social status, religion, and other factores
Peter learned that those things mean nothing to God
Peter had a vision of sheet holding all sorts of animals considered unclean
God: "Get up, Peter, kill and eat them" - Acts 10:13
Do not call somthing unclean if God had made it clean - Acts 10:15
Peter: God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean - Acts 10:28
God does not look at what man looks at; people are all are the same - they need salvation
He sent Jesus to draw all men to himself
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What God Sees
God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone impure or unclean
People are good at making distinctions about race, social status, religion, and other factores
Peter learned that those things mean nothing to God
Peter had a vision of sheet holding all sorts of animals considered unclean
God: "Get up, Peter, kill and eat them" - Acts 10:13
Do not call somthing unclean if God had made it clean - Acts 10:15
Peter: God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean - Acts 10:28
God does not look at what man looks at; people are all are the same - they need salvation
He sent Jesus to draw all men to himself
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What God Sees
God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone impure or unclean
People are good at making distinctions about race, social status, religion, and other factores
Peter learned that those things mean nothing to God
Peter had a vision of sheet holding all sorts of animals considered unclean
God: "Get up, Peter, kill and eat them" - Acts 10:13
Do not call somthing unclean if God had made it clean - Acts 10:15
Peter: God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean - Acts 10:28
God does not look at what man looks at; people are all are the same - they need salvation
He sent Jesus to draw all men to himself
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Don't Panic
Paul urged everyone to eat; you have not touched food for two weeks - Acts 27:33
When problems arise and overwhlm us, are we tempted to "fly off the handle" or panic?
A vicious storm slammed Paul's boat and conviced even seanoned sailors they were going to die
Paul had been through enough in his life of faith to know God would allow him to complete his appoined mission without dying.
God promised not a hair on their head will perish during the trip
We can find peace knowing nothing happens to us unless our heavenly Father allows it
Our situations may not be easy or fun but God still remains in control
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Just Like You
Whay are you doing this? We are merely human beings - just like you! - Acts 14:15
Paul and his missionary companion Barnabas demonstrated an attitude of humility and tolerance as they faced sin in the city of Lystra
When they healed a cripped man, Paul and Barnabas watched in horror as the people began to worship them
They did respond to the people in anger or disgust - rather they continued to love these sinners them even though they hated the sin
Paul and Barnabas sent a message that they were no better than anyone else - all of them together were sinners saved by God's grace
What kind of message are you sending to those around you?
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Right Direction
With his wife's consent, he kept the rest - Acts 5:2
Ananias was apparently a strong leader at home, unfortunately, he took his family in horribly wrong direction and paid a heavy price
He was among the 1st generation believers who sold their property, pooled their resources, and cared for those in need
Ananias sold his property but instead of bring all the money to the apostles, he keep some of it for himself
There was nothing wrong with keeping some of the money - Acts 5:4
Where is failed was when he lied about him giving all of it
Ananias lead his family in the wrong direction, where are you leading your family?
One of the greatest reward of leading your family in a godly direction is to see them grow too
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Right Direction
With his wife's consent, he kept the rest - Acts 5:2
Ananias was apparently a strong leader at home, unfortunately, he took his family in horribly wrong direction and paid a heavy price
He was among the 1st generation believers who sold their property, pooled their resources, and cared for those in need
Ananias sold his property but instead of bring all the money to the apostles, he keep some of it for himself
There was nothing wrong with keeping some of the money - Acts 5:4
Where is failed was when he lied about him giving all of it
Ananias lead his family in the wrong direction, where are you leading your family?
One of the greatest reward of leading your family in a godly direction is to see them grow too
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Right Reasons
May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought - Acts 8:20
Intense self-examination is needed to know if we are doing things for the right reasons
Simon the Sorcerer had a big problem with inappropriate motivation:
- Heard the apostles' preach
- Accepted their message
- Been baptized
- Still missing something
He had some very real power - people called him "the Great One - the Power of God" - Acts 8:10
Simon approached Peter and offered him money in exchange for the power to lay hands on people and give them the Holy Spirit
He appeared to want God's power to make a profit
Peter scolded him for believing money had anything to do with God power
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Right Reasons
May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought - Acts 8:20
Intense self-examination is needed to know if we are doing things for the right reasons
Simon the Sorcerer had a big problem with inappropriate motivation:
- Heard the apostles' preach
- Accepted their message
- Been baptized
- Still missing something
He had some very real power - people called him "the Great One - the Power of God" - Acts 8:10
Simon approached Peter and offered him money in exchange for the power to lay hands on people and give them the Holy Spirit
He appeared to want God's power to make a profit
Peter scolded him for believing money had anything to do with God power
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Breaking Barriers
We are akk here waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you - Acts 10:33
People tend to honor those who first do something of note
Roman military officer Cornelius broke a few barriers of his own when place his faith in Jesus
When Peter visited Cornelius, the apostle explained everything to him and he accepted his words
They saw that God intended salvation through Jesus for the Jews and Gentiles - Acts 10:44-45
Jesus' death and resurrection broken down the long standing barrier between God and man and between the Jews and Gentiles
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Breaking Barriers
We are akk here waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you - Acts 10:33
People tend to honor those who first do something of note
Roman military officer Cornelius broke a few barriers of his own when place his faith in Jesus
When Peter visited Cornelius, the apostle explained everything to him and he accepted his words
They saw that God intended salvation through Jesus for the Jews and Gentiles - Acts 10:44-45
Jesus' death and resurrection broken down the long standing barrier between God and man and between the Jews and Gentiles
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Breaking Barriers
We are akk here waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you - Acts 10:33
People tend to honor those who first do something of note
Roman military officer Cornelius broke a few barriers of his own when place his faith in Jesus
When Peter visited Cornelius, the apostle explained everything to him and he accepted his words
They saw that God intended salvation through Jesus for the Jews and Gentiles - Acts 10:44-45
Jesus' death and resurrection broken down the long standing barrier between God and man and between the Jews and Gentiles
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Get Into Action
We decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there - Acts 16:10
In Acts 16, Luke's language changed from third person to first person as he took an active part of the ministry
We decided to leave for Macedonia at once - Acts 16:11
Luke was not content to just sit back and observe other people's experiences of faith
He became an integal part:
- Doing the same work
- Taking the same risks
- Preaching the same message
- Reaping the same rewards
Christian growthis throwing yourself into the work of the KIngdom
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Get Into Action
We decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there - Acts 16:10
In Acts 16, Luke's language changed from third person to first person as he took an active part of the ministry
We decided to leave for Macedonia at once - Acts 16:11
Luke was not content to just sit back and observe other people's experiences of faith
He became an integal part:
- Doing the same work
- Taking the same risks
- Preaching the same message
- Reaping the same rewards
Christian growthis throwing yourself into the work of the KIngdom
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Alert and Ready
Take this young man to the commander. He has something important to tell him - Acts 23:17
Bible counsels us to alert and ready to move when God gives us a message of blessing, teching, or warning
Paul's nephew saved his life because he remained alert and ready to act on what he knew
Paul was chosen to speak his message of salvation to "the Gentiles and to kings" - Acts 9:!5
As Paul waited in jail for his opportunity to speak to Caesar, his nephew alerted him and his guards of a plot against his life
When you remain alert and step out in faith at the opportune time, the Lord can use you to alter the course of history
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Harmonious Service
There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish - John 6:8-9
Only once does the New Testament mention Andrew's name without connecting him with Peter - John 12:22
Andrew is last mentioned with the remaining elven disciples - Acts 1:13
He established his reputation on bring people to Jesus:
- He brought Peter - John 1:42
- A boy with some food - above
- Greeks who wanted to meet the Master - John 12:20-22
Andrew recognized his role and understood and accepted it
You play an important role like Andrew - bring people to him one by one
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Encouragement
Judas and Silas spoke at length to the believers, encouraging and strengthing their faith - Acts 15:32
They were choosen to travel with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch
Judas and Silas were chosen to deliver a letter that communicated what the apostles had decided about what Jewish laws the Gentile Christians needed to observe
They did not just read the letter and head home - they took the time and went out of their way to speak words of encouragement and strength to the believers
You can bless others as you go out of your way to encourage them
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Thriving Through Adversity
Crowds listened intently to Philip because they were eager to hear his message and see tje miraculous signs he did - Acts 8:5-8
Philip was among the first generation believers who fled the city to the other area because of persecution
He didn't hide out but preached the gospel wherever he went
Philip create a stir in Samaria when people eagerly listened to his message and watched in amazement as people were healed
He did not focus on his own preservation but the needs of other people
No one enjoys hardship and persecution but we can not let them quash our spirits
We serve a God who enables us to thrive even in adversity
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Thriving Through Adversity
Crowds listened intently to Philip because they were eager to hear his message and see tje miraculous signs he did - Acts 8:5-8
Philip was among the first generation believers who fled the city to the other area because of persecution
He didn't hide out but preached the gospel wherever he went
Philip create a stir in Samaria when people eagerly listened to his message and watched in amazement as people were healed
He did not focus on his own preservation but the needs of other people
No one enjoys hardship and persecution but we can not let them quash our spirits
We serve a God who enables us to thrive even in adversity
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Thriving Through Adversity
Crowds listened intently to Philip because they were eager to hear his message and see tje miraculous signs he did - Acts 8:5-8
Philip was among the first generation believers who fled the city to the other area because of persecution
He didn't hide out but preached the gospel wherever he went
Philip create a stir in Samaria when people eagerly listened to his message and watched in amazement as people were healed
He did not focus on his own preservation but the needs of other people
No one enjoys hardship and persecution but we can not let them quash our spirits
We serve a God who enables us to thrive even in adversity
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Thriving Through Adversity
Crowds listened intently to Philip because they were eager to hear his message and see tje miraculous signs he did - Acts 8:5-8
Philip was among the first generation believers who fled the city to the other area because of persecution
He didn't hide out but preached the gospel wherever he went
Philip create a stir in Samaria when people eagerly listened to his message and watched in amazement as people were healed
He did not focus on his own preservation but the needs of other people
No one enjoys hardship and persecution but we can not let them quash our spirits
We serve a God who enables us to thrive even in adversity
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Peter's Changes
Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God and be baptized - Acts 2:38
Some people who knew Peter wondered if he was the same person they had seen fall flat on his face so many times:
- Lost his nerve and sank like a rock - Matthew 14
- Three times denied even knowing Jesus - Luke 22
- Nowhere to be found as his Master was nailed to a wooden cross
It didn't look as if Peter had the right stuff to be the kind of ambassador Jesus called him to be
Peter preached with power and courage without regard to what could be some painful consequences
He knew that his preaching would get him into deep trouble but he did it anyway and thousands turned to Jesus in one day - Acts 2:41
Peter show what can happen to a man who knows Jesus Christ and lives by the Holy Spirit's empowerment
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Peter's Changes
Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God and be baptized - Acts 2:38
Some people who knew Peter wondered if he was the same person they had seen fall flat on his face so many times:
- Lost his nerve and sank like a rock - Matthew 14
- Three times denied even knowing Jesus - Luke 22
- Nowhere to be found as his Master was nailed to a wooden cross
It didn't look as if Peter had the right stuff to be the kind of ambassador Jesus called him to be
Peter preached with power and courage without regard to what could be some painful consequences
He knew that his preaching would get him into deep trouble but he did it anyway and thousands turned to Jesus in one day - Acts 2:41
Peter show what can happen to a man who knows Jesus Christ and lives by the Holy Spirit's empowerment
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More Than Changed
They did not believe he had truely become a believer - Acts 9:26
After his conversion, Saul endured skepticism from the early Christians
Saul's encounter with Jesus changed the direction of his life but some who hear his message could not believer their ears
Wasn't this the same Saul who violently persecuted Christians? Yes and No
Saul was transformed - Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person - 2 Corinthians 5:17
In an instant, Saul transformed from a hateful, enemy of Jesus to his most vocal follower
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Your Motivation
I am ready to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus - Acts 21:13
Proper motivation goes a long way to determine whether or not your life will become everything God wants it to be
Paul changed the world for Jesus despite enduring incredible suffering and persecution:
- Beaten
- Imprisioned
- Falsely accused
- Executed
What would motivate a man to go trhough what Paul endured?
- Paul served out of his love for Christ - willing to go to jail and die for the sake of Jesus
- Pauls served out of his love for people - Paul's life was a fountain that overflowed of love for other believers - 1 Thessalonians 3:12
Paul did and said everyhing out of a spirit of love
What is your motivation?
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Not About Me
I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen - 2 Timothy 2:9-10
Paul freely chose to suffer for Christ
Despite opponents he faces, pain and suffering, he gladly continued to speak the name of Jesus
Was he a masochist? No, he did not enjoy the pain but tried to move on where ever he could - Acts 26:29
Paul enjoyed anything that would help to get the gospel message preached to those who needed to hear it
Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution - 2 Timothy 3:12
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New Testament Eye Witnesses
Peter, Paul and John all claimed to be eyewitnesses
Paul lists 14 qhose names are known as eyewitnesses of the Resurrection (12 apostles, James and himself); also claims there are 500 others
The Resurrection was common knowledge, Paul was able to talk with great confidence about it because his audiance already knew the event was true. If there was a doubt, other would have called him out on it.
Confidence to talk to the king freely about the subject - Acts 26:24-28
Luke displays an incredible array of knowledge of local places, names, evironmental coniditions, customs and circumstances that only an eyewitness would have
There are 84 facts in the last 16 chapters of Acts that have been confirmed by historical and archaelogical research (pp256-259)
Luke also records 35 miracles in the same book, why would Luke so exact with the confirmed facts and not be accurate with the miracles?
In the book of Luke, Luke writes in the same Greek vocabulary and literary style
Since Luke had a perfect accuracy cbensscore in Acts, we can expect the same in the gospel of Luke.
Luke also has many historical crosshairs in the context of the gospel that could be easliy refuted if not true
Luke is a simular story in the other three gospels with book of John with nearly 60 confirmed/history consistent details (pp263-268)
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New Testament Eye Witnesses
Peter, Paul and John all claimed to be eyewitnesses
Paul lists 14 qhose names are known as eyewitnesses of the Resurrection (12 apostles, James and himself); also claims there are 500 others
The Resurrection was common knowledge, Paul was able to talk with great confidence about it because his audiance already knew the event was true. If there was a doubt, other would have called him out on it.
Confidence to talk to the king freely about the subject - Acts 26:24-28
Luke displays an incredible array of knowledge of local places, names, evironmental coniditions, customs and circumstances that only an eyewitness would have
There are 84 facts in the last 16 chapters of Acts that have been confirmed by historical and archaelogical research (pp256-259)
Luke also records 35 miracles in the same book, why would Luke so exact with the confirmed facts and not be accurate with the miracles?
In the book of Luke, Luke writes in the same Greek vocabulary and literary style
Since Luke had a perfect accuracy cbensscore in Acts, we can expect the same in the gospel of Luke.
Luke also has many historical crosshairs in the context of the gospel that could be easliy refuted if not true
Luke is a simular story in the other three gospels with book of John with nearly 60 confirmed/history consistent details (pp263-268)
|
New Testament Eye Witnesses
Peter, Paul and John all claimed to be eyewitnesses
Paul lists 14 qhose names are known as eyewitnesses of the Resurrection (12 apostles, James and himself); also claims there are 500 others
The Resurrection was common knowledge, Paul was able to talk with great confidence about it because his audiance already knew the event was true. If there was a doubt, other would have called him out on it.
Confidence to talk to the king freely about the subject - Acts 26:24-28
Luke displays an incredible array of knowledge of local places, names, evironmental coniditions, customs and circumstances that only an eyewitness would have
There are 84 facts in the last 16 chapters of Acts that have been confirmed by historical and archaelogical research (pp256-259)
Luke also records 35 miracles in the same book, why would Luke so exact with the confirmed facts and not be accurate with the miracles?
In the book of Luke, Luke writes in the same Greek vocabulary and literary style
Since Luke had a perfect accuracy cbensscore in Acts, we can expect the same in the gospel of Luke.
Luke also has many historical crosshairs in the context of the gospel that could be easliy refuted if not true
Luke is a simular story in the other three gospels with book of John with nearly 60 confirmed/history consistent details (pp263-268)
|
New Testament Eye Witnesses
Peter, Paul and John all claimed to be eyewitnesses
Paul lists 14 qhose names are known as eyewitnesses of the Resurrection (12 apostles, James and himself); also claims there are 500 others
The Resurrection was common knowledge, Paul was able to talk with great confidence about it because his audiance already knew the event was true. If there was a doubt, other would have called him out on it.
Confidence to talk to the king freely about the subject - Acts 26:24-28
Luke displays an incredible array of knowledge of local places, names, evironmental coniditions, customs and circumstances that only an eyewitness would have
There are 84 facts in the last 16 chapters of Acts that have been confirmed by historical and archaelogical research (pp256-259)
Luke also records 35 miracles in the same book, why would Luke so exact with the confirmed facts and not be accurate with the miracles?
In the book of Luke, Luke writes in the same Greek vocabulary and literary style
Since Luke had a perfect accuracy cbensscore in Acts, we can expect the same in the gospel of Luke.
Luke also has many historical crosshairs in the context of the gospel that could be easliy refuted if not true
Luke is a simular story in the other three gospels with book of John with nearly 60 confirmed/history consistent details (pp263-268)
|
New Testament Eye Witnesses
Peter, Paul and John all claimed to be eyewitnesses
Paul lists 14 qhose names are known as eyewitnesses of the Resurrection (12 apostles, James and himself); also claims there are 500 others
The Resurrection was common knowledge, Paul was able to talk with great confidence about it because his audiance already knew the event was true. If there was a doubt, other would have called him out on it.
Confidence to talk to the king freely about the subject - Acts 26:24-28
Luke displays an incredible array of knowledge of local places, names, evironmental coniditions, customs and circumstances that only an eyewitness would have
There are 84 facts in the last 16 chapters of Acts that have been confirmed by historical and archaelogical research (pp256-259)
Luke also records 35 miracles in the same book, why would Luke so exact with the confirmed facts and not be accurate with the miracles?
In the book of Luke, Luke writes in the same Greek vocabulary and literary style
Since Luke had a perfect accuracy cbensscore in Acts, we can expect the same in the gospel of Luke.
Luke also has many historical crosshairs in the context of the gospel that could be easliy refuted if not true
Luke is a simular story in the other three gospels with book of John with nearly 60 confirmed/history consistent details (pp263-268)
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NT Authors Telling the Truth (part II)
3. New Testament Writers Left in the Demanding Saying of Jesus
Wrote down challenging commands that goes contrrary of many who wrote things down
- Do not resist an evil person
- Pray for and love your enemies
- Do not judge unless our own lives are in order
- Lustful thoughts are commiting adultery in heart
These are not commands that would impose on themselves
Who can live up to these standards in the new testament? Only a perfect person.
4. New Testament Writers Carefully Distinguished Jesus' words from their own
5. New Testament Writers Included Uncomfortable Resurrection Event Details
- Burial of Jesus - Recorded Joseph of Arimathea helping out (why put a memer of the Sanhedrin in a positive light?
- First Witnesses - Mary Magdalene did not have the best past
- Coversion of Priests - large number of priests were converted, if not true, it could be easily disputed - Acts 6:7
- Explaination of the Jews - shared opposing views
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