The Bible Teaching Ministry of HOPE Church 2 Thessalonians 1:1-11 NIV Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:
\n\n\n\nWe would love to connect with you! You can fill out a connect card in the HOPE Church app or here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/connect
Giving is a way that we worship God with our tithes and offerings.
\n\nTo give online, visit: www.gfhope.org/give
\n\nTo give via text: text ‘GFHOPE’ to 77977
\n\nYou can also give via the HOPE Church app.
\n\nOr, you can mail a check to: HOPE Church 1601 17th Ave. S Grand Forks, ND 58201
\n\n\n\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/sermon-notes
\n\n\n\nIf you would like prayer today you can submit your prayer requests here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/prayer
\n
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Welcome to the HOPE Church Podcast. We are so glad to serve you in this way.
\n\nWe would love to connect with you! You can fill out a connect card in the HOPE Church app or here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/connect
Giving is a way that we worship God with our tithes and offerings.
\n\nTo give online, visit: www.gfhope.org/give
\n\nTo give via text: text ‘GFHOPE’ to 77977
\n\nYou can also give via the HOPE Church app.
\n\nOr, you can mail a check to: HOPE Church 1601 17th Ave. S Grand Forks, ND 58201
\n\n\n\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/sermon-notes
\n\n\n\nIf you would like prayer today you can submit your prayer requests here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/prayer
\n
\n
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Dear God. . . I pray for our leaders.
","summary":"Dear God. . . I pray for our leaders.","date_published":"2024-11-03T12:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/701d7c57-8e37-4225-8e36-0a73ebb1d666.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":67886183,"duration_in_seconds":2828}]},{"id":"f9afbce0-d13c-4804-b412-696f659e293d","title":"Dear God…Give Us Abounding Love!","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/340","content_text":"Dear God…Give Us Abounding Love!","content_html":"Dear God…Give Us Abounding Love!
","summary":"Dear God…Give Us Abounding Love!","date_published":"2024-10-27T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/f9afbce0-d13c-4804-b412-696f659e293d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43041226,"duration_in_seconds":1793}]},{"id":"14b1bdd6-1cee-4554-aff6-82fbed1f95a4","title":"Episode 339: I Pray for those who don’t know Jesus . . . Yet","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/339","content_text":"Welcome to HOPE Church Podcast. We are so glad to serve you in this way.\n\nWe would love to connect with you! You can fill out a connect card in the HOPE Church app or here:\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/connect\n\nGiving is a way that we worship God with our tithes and offerings.\nTo give online, visit: www.gfhope.org/give\nTo give via text: text ‘GFHOPE’ to 77977\nYou can also give via the HOPE Church app.\nOr, you can mail a check to: HOPE Church 1601 17th Ave. S Grand Forks, ND 58201\n\nWant to take notes along with service? Sermon notes are available in the HOPE church app, or at:\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/sermon-notes\n\nIf you would like prayer today you can submit your prayer requests here:\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/prayer","content_html":"Welcome to HOPE Church Podcast. We are so glad to serve you in this way.
\n\nWe would love to connect with you! You can fill out a connect card in the HOPE Church app or here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/connect
Giving is a way that we worship God with our tithes and offerings.
\nTo give online, visit: www.gfhope.org/give
\nTo give via text: text ‘GFHOPE’ to 77977
\nYou can also give via the HOPE Church app.
\nOr, you can mail a check to: HOPE Church 1601 17th Ave. S Grand Forks, ND 58201
Want to take notes along with service? Sermon notes are available in the HOPE church app, or at:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/sermon-notes
If you would like prayer today you can submit your prayer requests here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/prayer
Welcome to HOPE Church Podcast. We are so glad to serve you in this way.
\n\nWe would love to connect with you! You can fill out a connect card in the HOPE Church app or here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/connect
Giving is a way that we worship God with our tithes and offerings.
\nTo give online, visit: www.gfhope.org/give
\nTo give via text: text ‘GFHOPE’ to 77977
\nYou can also give via the HOPE Church app.
\nOr, you can mail a check to: HOPE Church 1601 17th Ave. S Grand Forks, ND 58201
Want to take notes along with service? Sermon notes are available in the HOPE church app, or at:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/sermon-notes
If you would like prayer today you can submit your prayer requests here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/prayer
Welcome to HOPE Church Podcast. We are so glad to serve you in this way.
\n\nWe would love to connect with you! You can fill out a connect card in the HOPE Church app or here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/connect
Giving is a way that we worship God with our tithes and offerings.
\nTo give online, visit: www.gfhope.org/give
\nTo give via text: text ‘GFHOPE’ to 77977
\nYou can also give via the HOPE Church app.
\nOr, you can mail a check to: HOPE Church 1601 17th Ave. S Grand Forks, ND 58201
Want to take notes along with service? Sermon notes are available in the HOPE church app, or at:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/sermon-notes
If you would like prayer today you can submit your prayer requests here:
\nhttps://www.gfhope.org/prayer
This week Pastor Patrick takes us through the appropriate response to church hurt.
","summary":"This week Pastor Patrick takes us through the appropriate response to church hurt.","date_published":"2024-09-29T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/c4502e5d-2849-4b34-bc38-f9d0c9ef5466.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":50714496,"duration_in_seconds":2113}]},{"id":"db026aa3-ded6-4cc4-924f-4f472189fca9","title":"Episode 335: Is God a Jerk?","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/335","content_text":"Is God a Jerk\n\nSeptember 22, 2024\n\nPastor: Mason Peters \n\n\n\nThis week Pastor Mason continues the series on deconstructing faith by asking, is God a jerk?\n\n\n\n1) FOUNDATION (PERSPECTIVE)\n\nScriptures referenced: Psalm 73,\n\n\nTruth\nHumilty\nPerspective\n\n\n\n\n2) WALLS (UNDERSTANDING)\n\n\nResult of Sin (Gen 3:14-20; Rom 3:23; 6:23)\nNatural Outcome (Deut 28:1-2,15)\nProtection and Purity (Deut 20:16-18)\nJustice and Mercy (Exod 34:6-7; Psa 145:8-9)\n\n\n\n\n3) ROOF (PERMISSION TO DOUBT)\n\nScriptures referenced: Matt 11:2-6; Mark 4:35-41; Rev 6:9-11\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHOPE Church \n\ngfhope.org ","content_html":"This week Pastor Mason continues the series on deconstructing faith by asking, is God a jerk?
\n\nScriptures referenced: Psalm 73,
\n\nResult of Sin (Gen 3:14-20; Rom 3:23; 6:23)
Natural Outcome (Deut 28:1-2,15)
Protection and Purity (Deut 20:16-18)
Justice and Mercy (Exod 34:6-7; Psa 145:8-9)
Scriptures referenced: Matt 11:2-6; Mark 4:35-41; Rev 6:9-11
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We are loved and have value, we have proud and rebellious hearts, are humans special or sinful?
\n\nScriptures referenced: Genesis ; 2:7; 5:1-2; Psalm 139:13-14; Psalm 8; Luke 12:6
\n\nGenesis 1:26-28 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThen God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
\n\nGod blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”
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Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
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Psalm 8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens.Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger. When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?
\n\nYou have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild, the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
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Luke 12:6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.
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Scriptures referenced: Genesis 3:1-13; Psalm 10:4; Matthew 19:16-22,
\n\nGenesis 3:1-13 (VER)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNow the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’”
\n\n“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
\n\nThen the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?”
\n\nThe man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”
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Psalm 10:4 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.
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Matthew 19:16-22 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJust then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”
\n\n“Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.”
\n\n“Which ones?” he inquired.
\n\nJesus replied, “‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,’[a] and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’[b]”
\n\n“All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”
\n\nJesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
\n\nWhen the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
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Scriptures referenced: Matthew 7:13-14
\n\nMatthew 7:13-14 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nEnter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
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This week Pastor Mason Peters begins the series of "Reconstructing Faith: Unmasking Your Doubts". Pastor Mason will walk us through a systematic overview of faith, what it means, how to answer tough questions, and how to built faith that lasts.
\n\nJude 20-23 (VER)
\n\n\n\n\nBut you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
\n\nBe merciful to those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
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Scriptures referenced: Jeremiah 17:9,
\n\nJeremiah 17:9 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?
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Scriptures referenced: Jude 20-21,
\n\nJude 20-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBut you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
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Build
\n\nActs 17:11-12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNow the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
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Pray
\n\nEphesians 6:18-19 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel,
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Walk
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Jude 22-23, Ephesians 6:12
\n\nJude 22-23 (VER)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBe merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
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Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
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This week our pastors answer your questions!
","summary":"This week our pastors answer your questions!","date_published":"2024-09-01T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/a034522c-3c8b-4f91-9a11-7abb645ecb96.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":90915840,"duration_in_seconds":3788}]},{"id":"8d0867c0-5406-4b47-9878-e0ecf5523dff","title":"Episode 330: Contend for the Faith","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/330","content_text":"Jude 1\n\n1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, \n\nTo those who have been called, who are loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ: \n\n2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. \n\n3 Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. 4 For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. \n\n5 Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home—these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. 7 In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. \n\n8 In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority and slander celestial beings. 9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” 10 Yet these men speak abusively against whatever they do not understand; and what things they do understand by instinct, like unreasoning animals—these are the very things that destroy them. \n\n11 Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion. \n\n12 These men are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm—shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—twice dead. 13 They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever. \n\n14 Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones 15 to judge everyone, and to convict all the ungodly of all the ungodly acts they have done in the ungodly way, and of all the harsh words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16 These men are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage. \n\n17 But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. 18 They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” 19 These are the men who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. \n\n20 But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. 21 Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. \n\n22 Be merciful to those who doubt; 23 snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. \n\n24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen \n\n\nRECOGNIZE FALSE TEACHERS (Jude 1:18)\nRESILIENT FAITH (Jude 1:3; 1:20-21)\nREACH and RESCUE (Jude 1:22-23) \n","content_html":"Jude 1
\n\n1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James,
\n\nTo those who have been called, who are loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ:
\n\n2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
\n\n3 Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. 4 For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.
\n\n5 Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home—these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. 7 In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.
\n\n8 In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority and slander celestial beings. 9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” 10 Yet these men speak abusively against whatever they do not understand; and what things they do understand by instinct, like unreasoning animals—these are the very things that destroy them.
\n\n11 Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.
\n\n12 These men are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm—shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—twice dead. 13 They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever.
\n\n14 Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones 15 to judge everyone, and to convict all the ungodly of all the ungodly acts they have done in the ungodly way, and of all the harsh words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16 These men are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.
\n\n17 But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. 18 They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” 19 These are the men who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
\n\n20 But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. 21 Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
\n\n22 Be merciful to those who doubt; 23 snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
\n\n24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen
\n\nThis week Paul walks us through being an open door for those around us.
\n\n3 John
\n\nThe elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth.2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.5 Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God. 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. 8 We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.9 I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. 10 So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.11 Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.12 Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true.13 I have much to write you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink. 14 I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face.15 Peace to you. The friends here send their greetings. Greet the friends there by name.
\n\nThree Church Guys
\n\nGaius
Diotrephes
Demetrius:
Acts 19:25-27
\n\nHe called them together, along with the workers in related trades, and said: “You know, my friends, that we receive a good income from this business. 26 And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that gods made by human hands are no gods at all. 27 There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.”
\n\n·Gaius
\n\n3 John 1:1-8 NIV
\n\nTo my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth.2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 5 Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God. 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. 8 We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.
\n\nRomans 16:23 NIV
\n\nGaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings.
\n\n1 Peter 4:8, 9 NIV
\n\nAbove all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
\n\n“We need to meet people where they are, not where we are.
\n\nThe gap between those two areas is where judgement (and bias) come from. You can eliminate that judgement and close that gap when you meet people where they are.”
\n\na Roman Catholic Sister
\n\n· Diotrephes
\n\n3 John 1:9-11 NIV
\n\nI wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. 10 So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church. 11 Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
\n\nRomans 1:28-32 NIV
\n\nFurthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. 29 They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips,30 slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; 31 they have no understanding, no fidelity, no love, no mercy. 32 Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.
\n\nTitus 3:10, 11 NIV
\n\nWarn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. 11 You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.
\n\n· Demetrius
\n\n3 John 1:11, 12 NIV
\n\nDear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.12 Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true.
\n\nMatthew 5:14-16 NIV
\n\n“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
\n\n1 Peter 2:11-15 NIV
\n\nDear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
\n\n13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.
\n\n1 Peter 4:8 NIV
\n\nAbove all, love each other deeply . . .
","summary":"This week Paul walks us through being an open door for those around us.","date_published":"2024-08-10T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/c4954bea-c938-4f83-b678-e9f8e3f92377.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":52737461,"duration_in_seconds":2197}]},{"id":"2c935997-f7a6-46bf-9296-9484f8ed84cc","title":"Episode 328: Love and be smart about it","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/328","content_text":"2 John\n\nThe elder,\n\nTo the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth— 2 because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever:\n\n3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.\n\n4 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us.5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.\n\n7 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what we[a] have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 9 Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. 11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.\n\n12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.\n\n13 The children of your sister, who is chosen by God, send their greetings.\n\n\nWalk in Love.\n\n\n2 John 1: 5, 6 NIV\n\nAnd now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.\n\nJohn 13:34, 35 NIV\n\n“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”\n\nLove is . . .\n\nThe Apostle Paul\n\n1 Corinthians 13\n\nJohn 14:15 NIV\n\n“If you love me, keep my commands.”\n\nJohn 14:21 NIV\n\nWhoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”\n\nLove is dependent on obedience.\n\nWhen we don’t obey, we don’t love.\n\nWhen we don’t love, we don’t obey.\n\nJohn 15:12, 13 NIV\n\nMy command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.\n\nLove does . . .\n\nBobb Goff\n\nMatthew 5:43, 44 NIV\n\n“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you . . .\n\n\nWalk in The Truth.\n\n\n2 John 1:1-4 NIV\n\nThe elder,\n\nTo the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth— 2 because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever: 3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love. 4 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us.\n\nJohn 14:6 NIV\n\nJesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.\n\nThe Essentials\n\nWalk in the Truth of these realities.\n\n\nThe Holy Bible is God’s Word\nGod is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.\nJesus Christ is God become flesh, born of the virgin Mary.\nJesus Christ lived a sinless life.\nEvery human being is completely sinful.\nJesus Christ shed his blood and died in our place to atone for our sin.\nSalvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, alone.\nJesus Christ rose physically from the dead.\nJesus Christ ascended into heaven and will literally return to reign.\n\n\n1 John 2:20-23 NIV\n\nBut you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. 21 I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. 22 Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also.\n\n\nDon’t be Gullible.\n\n\n(a call to be discerning)\n\n2 John 1:7-11 NIV\n\nI say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 9 Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. 11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.\n\n2 Peter 2:1-3 NIV\n\nBut there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. 3 In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories…\n\n1 John 4:1-3 NIV\n\nDear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.\n\nLies can’t hide,\n\nwhere Truth abides.\n\nGrace, mercy and peace\n\nfrom God the Father\n\nand from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son,\n\nwill be with us in truth and love.","content_html":"2 John
\n\nThe elder,
\n\nTo the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth— 2 because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever:
\n\n3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.
\n\n4 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us.5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.
\n\n7 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what we[a] have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 9 Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. 11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.
\n\n12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
\n\n13 The children of your sister, who is chosen by God, send their greetings.
\n\n2 John 1: 5, 6 NIV
\n\nAnd now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.
\n\nJohn 13:34, 35 NIV
\n\n“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
\n\nLove is . . .
\n\nThe Apostle Paul
\n\n1 Corinthians 13
\n\nJohn 14:15 NIV
\n\n“If you love me, keep my commands.”
\n\nJohn 14:21 NIV
\n\nWhoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
\n\nLove is dependent on obedience.
\n\nWhen we don’t obey, we don’t love.
\n\nWhen we don’t love, we don’t obey.
\n\nJohn 15:12, 13 NIV
\n\nMy command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
\n\nLove does . . .
\n\nBobb Goff
\n\nMatthew 5:43, 44 NIV
\n\n“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you . . .
\n\n2 John 1:1-4 NIV
\n\nThe elder,
\n\nTo the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth— 2 because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever: 3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love. 4 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us.
\n\nJohn 14:6 NIV
\n\nJesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
\n\nThe Essentials
\n\nWalk in the Truth of these realities.
\n\nThe Holy Bible is God’s Word
God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Jesus Christ is God become flesh, born of the virgin Mary.
Jesus Christ lived a sinless life.
Every human being is completely sinful.
Jesus Christ shed his blood and died in our place to atone for our sin.
Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, alone.
Jesus Christ rose physically from the dead.
Jesus Christ ascended into heaven and will literally return to reign.
1 John 2:20-23 NIV
\n\nBut you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. 21 I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. 22 Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also.
\n\n(a call to be discerning)
\n\n2 John 1:7-11 NIV
\n\nI say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 9 Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. 11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.
\n\n2 Peter 2:1-3 NIV
\n\nBut there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. 3 In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories…
\n\n1 John 4:1-3 NIV
\n\nDear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
\n\nLies can’t hide,
\n\nwhere Truth abides.
\n\nGrace, mercy and peace
\n\nfrom God the Father
\n\nand from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son,
\n\nwill be with us in truth and love.
","summary":"This week Paul walks us what hospitality to others looks like. ","date_published":"2024-08-04T19:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/2c935997-f7a6-46bf-9296-9484f8ed84cc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":55231424,"duration_in_seconds":2301}]},{"id":"2386c553-4acc-4b7e-ab55-5f73928ccfad","title":"Episode 327: Ingredients for Biblical Reconciliation","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/327","content_text":"Philemon 1 (NIV)\n\n1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,\n\nTo Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker, 2 to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church that meets in your home:\n\n3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.\n\n4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5 because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. 6 I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. 7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.\n\n8 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, 9 yet I appeal to you on the basis of love. I then, as Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— 10 I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.\n\n12 I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. 13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. 14 But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. 15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good— 16 no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.\n\n17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self. 20 I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. 21 Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.\n\n22 And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.\n\n23 Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. 24 And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers.\n\n25 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.\nBACKGROUND OF PHILEMON\n\nFOUR IMPORTANT INGREDIENTS FOR BIBLICAL RECONCILIATION:\n\n\nINTEGRATE (Matthew 18:21-35; Philemon 1:5)\nIDENTITY (Philemon 1:16)\nINVITATION (Philemon 1:8 and 1:18)\nINVOLVEMENT (Matthew 18:15-17)\n\n\nBonus: INSPIRING (John 13:35)","content_html":"Philemon 1 (NIV)
\n\n1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,
\n\nTo Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker, 2 to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church that meets in your home:
\n\n3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
\n\n4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5 because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. 6 I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. 7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.
\n\n8 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, 9 yet I appeal to you on the basis of love. I then, as Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— 10 I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.
\n\n12 I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. 13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. 14 But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. 15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good— 16 no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
\n\n17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self. 20 I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. 21 Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.
\n\n22 And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.
\n\n23 Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. 24 And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers.
\n\n25 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
\nBACKGROUND OF PHILEMON
FOUR IMPORTANT INGREDIENTS FOR BIBLICAL RECONCILIATION:
\n\nINTEGRATE (Matthew 18:21-35; Philemon 1:5)
IDENTITY (Philemon 1:16)
INVITATION (Philemon 1:8 and 1:18)
INVOLVEMENT (Matthew 18:15-17)
Bonus: INSPIRING (John 13:35)
","summary":"This week Pastor Patrick takes us through Philemon and what biblical reconciliation looks like.","date_published":"2024-07-28T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/2386c553-4acc-4b7e-ab55-5f73928ccfad.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":47445120,"duration_in_seconds":1976}]},{"id":"63637d24-506d-4f78-8ae2-ca5fefa054ad","title":"Episode 326: While You Wait The Book of Titus","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/326","content_text":"This week Pastor Mason Peters takes us through the pillars of the mission and what the book of Titus teaches.\n\nPillars of the Mission:\n\n1. Knowledge.\n\nTitus 1:10-16\n\nTitus 2:1\n\n2. Character.\n\nTitus 2:1-16\n\nTitus 3:4-8\n\n3. Purpose.","content_html":"This week Pastor Mason Peters takes us through the pillars of the mission and what the book of Titus teaches.
\n\nTitus 1:10-16
\n\nTitus 2:1
\n\nTitus 2:1-16
\n\nTitus 3:4-8
\n\nMatthew 3:1-12
\n\nHebrews 1:1-3
\n\nGalatians 4:4
\n\nRomans 5:6
\n\nMatthew 28:20
\n\n2 Corinthians 12:9
\n\nRomans 8:28-39
","summary":"This week Pastor Mason Peters walks us through how to respond when God is silent.","date_published":"2024-07-14T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/7402d8b5-7f55-4ac9-8043-98d7ac7613fb.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":22279392,"duration_in_seconds":1856}]},{"id":"c16229df-fae3-4fc7-9363-c86dcde7f1c2","title":"Episode 323: Jonah – Lessons from the ODI’s","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/323","content_text":"This week Pastor Mason takes us through the story of Jonah, when to go, when to repent, and when to celebrate!\n\n\nWhen God says “Go,” go.\n\n\nJonah 1:1-17 NIV\n\n1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”\n\n3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.\n\n4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up. 5 All the sailors were afraid and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the cargo into the sea to lighten the ship.\n\nBut Jonah had gone below deck, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. 6 The captain went to him and said, “How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish.”\n\n7 Then the sailors said to each other, “Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.” They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 So they asked him, “Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? What kind of work do you do? Where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?”\n\n9 He answered, “I am a Hebrew and I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.”\n\n10 This terrified them and they asked, “What have you done?” (They knew he was running away from the Lord, because he had already told them so.)\n\n11 The sea was getting rougher and rougher. So they asked him, “What should we do to you to make the sea calm down for us?”\n\n12 “Pick me up and throw me into the sea,” he replied, “and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.”\n\n13 Instead, the men did their best to row back to land. But they could not, for the sea grew even wilder than before. 14 Then they cried out to the Lord, “Please, Lord, do not let us die for taking this man’s life. Do not hold us accountable for killing an innocent man, for you, Lord, have done as you pleased.” 15 Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. 16 At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. 17 Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.\n\n\nWhen God says “No,” repent.\n\n\nJonah 2:1-10 NIV\n\nFrom inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. 2 He said:\n\n“In my distress I called to the Lord,\n\nand he answered me.\n\nFrom deep in the realm of the dead I called for help,\n\nand you listened to my cry.\n\n3 You hurled me into the depths,\n\ninto the very heart of the seas,\n\nand the currents swirled about me;\n\nall your waves and breakers\n\nswept over me.\n\n4 I said, ‘I have been banished\n\nfrom your sight;\n\nyet I will look again\n\ntoward your holy temple.’\n\n5 The engulfing waters threatened me,\n\nthe deep surrounded me;\n\nseaweed was wrapped around my head.\n\n6 To the roots of the mountains I sank down;\n\nthe earth beneath barred me in forever.\n\nBut you, Lord my God,\n\nbrought my life up from the pit.\n\n7 “When my life was ebbing away,\n\nI remembered you, Lord,\n\nand my prayer rose to you,\n\nto your holy temple.\n\n8 “Those who cling to worthless idols\n\nturn away from God’s love for them.\n\n9 But I, with shouts of grateful praise,\n\nwill sacrifice to you.\n\nWhat I have vowed I will make good.\n\nI will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.’ ”\n\n10 And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.\n\nJonah 3:1-10 NIV\n\nThen the word of the Lord came to Jonaht a second time: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.”\n\n3 Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. Now Nineveh was a very large city; it took three days to go through it. 4 Jonah began by going a day’s journey into the city, proclaiming, “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.” 5 The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.\n\n6 When Jonah’s warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust. 7 This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh:\n\n“By the decree of the king and his nobles:\n\nDo not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink. 8 But let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. 9 Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish.”\n\n10 When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.\n\n1 Corinthians 1:26-31 NIV\n\n26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”\n\n\nWhen God says “Bro,” celebrate.\n\n\nJonah 4:1-11 NIV\n\nBut to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. 2 He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. 3 Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.”\n\n4 But the Lord replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?”\n\n5 Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. 6 Then the Lord God provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. 7 But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. 8 When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah’s head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.”\n\n9 But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?”\n\n“It is,” he said. “And I’m so angry I wish I were dead.”\n\n10 But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. 11 And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?”\n\nExodus 34:6-7 NIV\n\n6 And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, 7 maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”","content_html":"This week Pastor Mason takes us through the story of Jonah, when to go, when to repent, and when to celebrate!
\n\nJonah 1:1-17 NIV
\n\n1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”
\n\n3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.
\n\n4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up. 5 All the sailors were afraid and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the cargo into the sea to lighten the ship.
\n\nBut Jonah had gone below deck, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. 6 The captain went to him and said, “How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish.”
\n\n7 Then the sailors said to each other, “Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.” They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 So they asked him, “Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? What kind of work do you do? Where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?”
\n\n9 He answered, “I am a Hebrew and I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.”
\n\n10 This terrified them and they asked, “What have you done?” (They knew he was running away from the Lord, because he had already told them so.)
\n\n11 The sea was getting rougher and rougher. So they asked him, “What should we do to you to make the sea calm down for us?”
\n\n12 “Pick me up and throw me into the sea,” he replied, “and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.”
\n\n13 Instead, the men did their best to row back to land. But they could not, for the sea grew even wilder than before. 14 Then they cried out to the Lord, “Please, Lord, do not let us die for taking this man’s life. Do not hold us accountable for killing an innocent man, for you, Lord, have done as you pleased.” 15 Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. 16 At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. 17 Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.
\n\nJonah 2:1-10 NIV
\n\nFrom inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. 2 He said:
\n\n“In my distress I called to the Lord,
\n\nand he answered me.
\n\nFrom deep in the realm of the dead I called for help,
\n\nand you listened to my cry.
\n\n3 You hurled me into the depths,
\n\ninto the very heart of the seas,
\n\nand the currents swirled about me;
\n\nall your waves and breakers
\n\nswept over me.
\n\n4 I said, ‘I have been banished
\n\nfrom your sight;
\n\nyet I will look again
\n\ntoward your holy temple.’
\n\n5 The engulfing waters threatened me,
\n\nthe deep surrounded me;
\n\nseaweed was wrapped around my head.
\n\n6 To the roots of the mountains I sank down;
\n\nthe earth beneath barred me in forever.
\n\nBut you, Lord my God,
\n\nbrought my life up from the pit.
\n\n7 “When my life was ebbing away,
\n\nI remembered you, Lord,
\n\nand my prayer rose to you,
\n\nto your holy temple.
\n\n8 “Those who cling to worthless idols
\n\nturn away from God’s love for them.
\n\n9 But I, with shouts of grateful praise,
\n\nwill sacrifice to you.
\n\nWhat I have vowed I will make good.
\n\nI will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.’ ”
\n\n10 And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.
\n\nJonah 3:1-10 NIV
\n\nThen the word of the Lord came to Jonaht a second time: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.”
\n\n3 Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. Now Nineveh was a very large city; it took three days to go through it. 4 Jonah began by going a day’s journey into the city, proclaiming, “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.” 5 The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.
\n\n6 When Jonah’s warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust. 7 This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh:
\n\n“By the decree of the king and his nobles:
\n\nDo not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink. 8 But let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. 9 Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish.”
\n\n10 When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.
\n\n1 Corinthians 1:26-31 NIV
\n\n26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”
\n\nJonah 4:1-11 NIV
\n\nBut to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. 2 He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. 3 Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.”
\n\n4 But the Lord replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?”
\n\n5 Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. 6 Then the Lord God provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. 7 But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. 8 When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah’s head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.”
\n\n9 But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?”
\n\n“It is,” he said. “And I’m so angry I wish I were dead.”
\n\n10 But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. 11 And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?”
\n\nExodus 34:6-7 NIV
\n\n6 And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, 7 maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”
","summary":"This week Pastor Mason takes us through the story of Jonah, when to go, when to repent, and when to celebrate!","date_published":"2024-06-30T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/c16229df-fae3-4fc7-9363-c86dcde7f1c2.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23389831,"duration_in_seconds":1949}]},{"id":"86243c27-2f5e-4ffc-8eb0-f695ad9e5b79","title":"Episode 322: Obadiah – God loves and expects love","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/322","content_text":"This week Pastor Paul takes us through pride and it's consequences to our character.\n\n\nThe Ugliness of Prideful People\n\n\nObadiah 1:3 NIV\n\nThe pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself…\n\nObadiah 1:6 NIV\n\nBut how Esau will be ransacked,\n his hidden treasures pillaged!\n\nObadiah 1:7 NIV\n\nAll your allies will force you to the border; your friends will deceive and overpower you;\nthose who eat your bread will set a trap for you, but you will not detect it.\n\nObadiah 1:8 NIV\n\n“In that day,” declares the Lord,\n “will I not destroy the wise men of Edom,\n those of understanding in the mountains of Esau?\n\nObadiah 1:10-14 NIV \n\nBecause of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.\n11 On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth\nand foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. 12 You should not gloat over your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble. 13 You should not march through the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor gloat over them in their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor seize their wealth in the day of their disaster. 14 You should not wait at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, nor hand over their survivors in the day of their trouble.\n\n\nThe Ultimate Destruction of Pride-filled People.\n\n\nObadiah 1:3, 4 NIV\n\nThe pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’ 4 Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,” declares the Lord.\n\n2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV\n\nFor we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.\n\nMatthew 12:36, 37 NIV\n\nBut I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”\n\nRevelation 20:12-15 NIV\n\nThen I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.\n\n\nThe Unwavering Confidence in a Day that is coming!\n\n\nObadiah 1:15-17 NIV\n\n“The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you;\n your deeds will return upon your own head. 16 Just as you drank on my holy hill,\n so all the nations will drink continually; they will drink and drink and be as if they had never been. 17 But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance.\n\nJohn 3:16, 17 NIV\n\nFor God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. \n\n1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV\n\nPraise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. \n\nPhilippians 3:19-21 NIV\n\nTheir destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.\n\nRomans 8:37-39 NIV\n\nNo, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.","content_html":"This week Pastor Paul takes us through pride and it's consequences to our character.
\n\nObadiah 1:3 NIV
\n\nThe pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself…
\n\nObadiah 1:6 NIV
\n\nBut how Esau will be ransacked,
\n his hidden treasures pillaged!
Obadiah 1:7 NIV
\n\nAll your allies will force you to the border; your friends will deceive and overpower you;
\nthose who eat your bread will set a trap for you, but you will not detect it.
Obadiah 1:8 NIV
\n\n“In that day,” declares the Lord,
\n “will I not destroy the wise men of Edom,
\n those of understanding in the mountains of Esau?
Obadiah 1:10-14 NIV
\n\nBecause of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.
\n11 On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth
\nand foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. 12 You should not gloat over your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble. 13 You should not march through the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor gloat over them in their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor seize their wealth in the day of their disaster. 14 You should not wait at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, nor hand over their survivors in the day of their trouble.
Obadiah 1:3, 4 NIV
\n\nThe pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’ 4 Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,” declares the Lord.
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV
\n\nFor we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
\n\nMatthew 12:36, 37 NIV
\n\nBut I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
\n\nRevelation 20:12-15 NIV
\n\nThen I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
\n\nObadiah 1:15-17 NIV
\n\n“The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you;
\n your deeds will return upon your own head. 16 Just as you drank on my holy hill,
\n so all the nations will drink continually; they will drink and drink and be as if they had never been. 17 But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance.
John 3:16, 17 NIV
\n\nFor God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
\n\n1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV
\n\nPraise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
\n\nPhilippians 3:19-21 NIV
\n\nTheir destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
\n\nRomans 8:37-39 NIV
\n\nNo, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
","summary":"This week Pastor Paul takes us through pride and it's consequences to our character.","date_published":"2024-06-23T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/86243c27-2f5e-4ffc-8eb0-f695ad9e5b79.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27171840,"duration_in_seconds":2264}]},{"id":"2818e7ce-a50f-4bc6-b4a4-0e20553827b6","title":"Episode 321: Malachi – Return to Relationship","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/321","content_text":"1. Your response to my love has been CYNICAL\n\nMalachi 1:1-5 NIV\n\n\nA prophecy: The word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi. 2 “I have loved you,” says the Lord. “But you ask, ‘How have you loved us?’\n\n“Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” declares the Lord. “Yet I have loved Jacob, 3 but Esau I have hated, and I have turned his hill country into a wasteland and left his inheritance to the desert jackals.” 4 Edom may say, “Though we have been crushed, we will rebuild the ruins.” But this is what the Lord Almighty says: “They may build, but I will demolish. They will be called the Wicked Land, a people always under the wrath of the Lord.5 You will see it with your own eyes and say, ‘Great is the Lord—even beyond the borders of Israel!’\n\n\n2. Your worship of me has been CASUAL\n\nA) Give your best in worship\n\nMalachi 1:6-8 NIV\n\n\n“A son honors his father, and a slave his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me?” says the Lord Almighty. “It is you priests who show contempt for my name.\n\n“But you ask, ‘How have we shown contempt for your name?’\n\n“By offering defiled food on my altar. “But you ask, ‘How have we defiled you?’\n\n“By saying that the Lord’s table is contemptible.8 When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?” says the Lord Almighty.\n\n\nB) Don’t steal from God\n\n\nMalachi 3:7-12 NIV\n\nEver since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.\n\n“But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’\n\n“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.\n\n“But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’\n\n“In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. 12 “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.\n\n\nC) Correct your “what’s in it for me” attitude\n\nMalachi 3:13-15 NIV\n\n\n“You have spoken arrogantly against me,” says the Lord.\n\n“Yet you ask, ‘What have we said against you?’\n\n“You have said, ‘It is futile to serve God. What do we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the Lord Almighty? 15 But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly evildoers prosper, and even when they put God to the test, they get away with it.\n\n\n3. Your relationships have been COMPROMISED\n\nA) As Christ-followers be faithful to God’s Word.\n\nMalachi 1:7-9 NIV (1 Peter 2:9-11)\n\n\n“For the lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, because he is the messenger of the Lord Almighty and people seek instruction from his mouth. 8 But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble; you have violated the covenant with Levi,” says the Lord Almighty. 9 “So I have caused you to be despised and humiliated before all the people, because you have not followed my ways but have shown partiality in matters of the law.”\n\n\nMalachi 2:10 NIV\n\n\nDo we not all have one Father? Did not one God create us? Why do we profane the covenant of our ancestors by being unfaithful to one another?\n\n\nB) Don’t marry someone who doesn’t love the Lord.\n\nMalachi 2:11-12 NIV\n\n\nJudah has been unfaithful. A detestable thing has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem: Judah has desecrated the sanctuary the Lord loves by marrying women who worship a foreign god. 12 As for the man who does this, whoever he may be, may the Lord remove him from the tents of Jacob—even though he brings an offering to the Lord Almighty.\n\n\nC) Stay faithful to your spouse, always.\n\nMalachi 2:13-16 NIV\n\n\nAnother thing you do: You flood the Lord’s altar with tears. You weep and wail because he no longer looks with favor on your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands. 14 You ask, “Why?” It is because the Lord is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant. 15 Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful to the wife of your youth.16 “The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.\n\n\n4. There is a day COMING, be distinctive!\n\nA) Return to relationship with Christ.\n\nMalachi 4:1, 2 NIV\n\n\nSurely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them. 2 But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. \n\n\nB) Remember, and live up into who you are!\n\nMalachi 3:16-18 NIV\n\n\nThen those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name. “On the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty, “they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him. 18 And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.\n","content_html":"Malachi 1:1-5 NIV
\n\n\n\n\nA prophecy: The word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi. 2 “I have loved you,” says the Lord. “But you ask, ‘How have you loved us?’
\n\n“Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” declares the Lord. “Yet I have loved Jacob, 3 but Esau I have hated, and I have turned his hill country into a wasteland and left his inheritance to the desert jackals.” 4 Edom may say, “Though we have been crushed, we will rebuild the ruins.” But this is what the Lord Almighty says: “They may build, but I will demolish. They will be called the Wicked Land, a people always under the wrath of the Lord.5 You will see it with your own eyes and say, ‘Great is the Lord—even beyond the borders of Israel!’
\n
A) Give your best in worship
\n\nMalachi 1:6-8 NIV
\n\n\n\n\n“A son honors his father, and a slave his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me?” says the Lord Almighty. “It is you priests who show contempt for my name.
\n\n“But you ask, ‘How have we shown contempt for your name?’
\n\n“By offering defiled food on my altar. “But you ask, ‘How have we defiled you?’
\n\n“By saying that the Lord’s table is contemptible.8 When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?” says the Lord Almighty.
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B) Don’t steal from God
\n\n\n\n\nMalachi 3:7-12 NIV
\n\nEver since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.
\n\n“But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’
\n\n“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.
\n\n“But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’
\n\n“In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. 12 “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.
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C) Correct your “what’s in it for me” attitude
\n\nMalachi 3:13-15 NIV
\n\n\n\n\n“You have spoken arrogantly against me,” says the Lord.
\n\n“Yet you ask, ‘What have we said against you?’
\n\n“You have said, ‘It is futile to serve God. What do we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the Lord Almighty? 15 But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly evildoers prosper, and even when they put God to the test, they get away with it.
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A) As Christ-followers be faithful to God’s Word.
\n\nMalachi 1:7-9 NIV (1 Peter 2:9-11)
\n\n\n\n\n“For the lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, because he is the messenger of the Lord Almighty and people seek instruction from his mouth. 8 But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble; you have violated the covenant with Levi,” says the Lord Almighty. 9 “So I have caused you to be despised and humiliated before all the people, because you have not followed my ways but have shown partiality in matters of the law.”
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Malachi 2:10 NIV
\n\n\n\n\nDo we not all have one Father? Did not one God create us? Why do we profane the covenant of our ancestors by being unfaithful to one another?
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B) Don’t marry someone who doesn’t love the Lord.
\n\nMalachi 2:11-12 NIV
\n\n\n\n\nJudah has been unfaithful. A detestable thing has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem: Judah has desecrated the sanctuary the Lord loves by marrying women who worship a foreign god. 12 As for the man who does this, whoever he may be, may the Lord remove him from the tents of Jacob—even though he brings an offering to the Lord Almighty.
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C) Stay faithful to your spouse, always.
\n\nMalachi 2:13-16 NIV
\n\n\n\n\nAnother thing you do: You flood the Lord’s altar with tears. You weep and wail because he no longer looks with favor on your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands. 14 You ask, “Why?” It is because the Lord is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant. 15 Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful to the wife of your youth.16 “The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.
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A) Return to relationship with Christ.
\n\nMalachi 4:1, 2 NIV
\n\n\n\n\nSurely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them. 2 But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.
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B) Remember, and live up into who you are!
\n\nMalachi 3:16-18 NIV
\n\n\n","summary":"","date_published":"2024-06-16T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/2818e7ce-a50f-4bc6-b4a4-0e20553827b6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27830016,"duration_in_seconds":2319}]},{"id":"117a9a30-e392-4b17-b5c2-11888ae70721","title":"Episode 320: Lamentations – Just a Few More Steps","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/320","content_text":"\nDemise is the inevitable outcome of rejecting God\n\n\nLamentations 1-2, 3-4; Deuteronomy 28; Romans 1:18-30\n\n\nIt’s okay to admit it’s not okay and say it out loud\n\n\nLamentations 1-2, 3-4; Psalm 73\n\n\nJustice and joy are right around the corner\n\n\nLamentations 3:21-33","content_html":"Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name. “On the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty, “they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him. 18 And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.
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Lamentations 1-2, 3-4; Deuteronomy 28; Romans 1:18-30
\n\nLamentations 1-2, 3-4; Psalm 73
\n\nLamentations 3:21-33
","summary":"Lamentations – Just a Few More Steps","date_published":"2024-06-09T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/117a9a30-e392-4b17-b5c2-11888ae70721.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23888160,"duration_in_seconds":1990}]},{"id":"e1690f88-fe37-4180-acdb-9231e12e9e49","title":"Episode 319: THE STORY OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/319","content_text":"THE STORY OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT\n\nJune 2, 2024\n\nPastor: Patrick Severson\n\n\n\nWhen you experience a crisis of faith what do you do? Pastor Patrick Severson takes us through a biblical view.\n\nA FEW KEY MOMENTS AND PEOPLE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT\n\n\nCreation\nFall\nFlood\nTower of Babel\nAbraham\nCovenant with Israel\nPromise Land\nJudges\nKing Saul\nKing David\nKing Solomon\nDivided Kingdom\nExile\nProphets\nReturn from Exile\n\n\nThree reminders for us when we experience a crisis of faith:\n\n1. IT’S NORMAL – Accept that a crisis of faith is a common experience.\n\n2. IT’S TRICKY – Be honest with yourself.\n\n3. IT’S PIVOTAL – We choose the path forward.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHOPE Church\n\ngfhope.org","content_html":"When you experience a crisis of faith what do you do? Pastor Patrick Severson takes us through a biblical view.
\n\nA FEW KEY MOMENTS AND PEOPLE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
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This week Pastor Paul takes us through the secret of contentment.
\n\nA description goes here...
\n\nPhilippians 4:10-20: (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nI rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
\n\nYet it was good of you to share in my troubles.15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
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Scriptures referenced: Philippians 4:10-13,
\n\nPhilippians 4:10-13 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nI rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
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1 Timothy 6:6-12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBut godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith.
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Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:3-7,
\n\n** Philippians 1:3-7** (VER)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nI thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. 7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart
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Philippians 4:14 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYet it was good of you to share in my troubles.
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Philippians 4:18-20 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nI am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
\n\nTo our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
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Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:21, 22, Philippians 1:12-14, Philippians 4:22
\n\nPhilippians 1:12-14 (NIV)
\n\nNow I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
\n\nPhilippians 1:21, 22 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me.
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Philippians 4:22 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAll God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
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This Confirmation Sunday Paul walks the next generation of Christ followers through a systematic overview of the bible.
","summary":"This Confirmation Sunday Paul walks the next generation of Christ followers through a systematic overview of the bible.","date_published":"2024-05-19T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/ca32320d-ce53-4a80-beb7-4455c0f1d821.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23209344,"duration_in_seconds":967}]},{"id":"3749a6ce-9dac-48fc-8c34-8f1d2c52dc04","title":"Episode 316: Get Your Joy Back!","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/316","content_text":"Get Your Joy Back!\n\nMay 12, 2024\n\nPastor: Paul Knight\n\n\n\nPastor Paul Knight walks us through how to get our joy back.\n\nMain Scripture Reference(s): Philippians 4:1\n\nPhilippians 4:1 (NIV)\n\nTherefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.\n\n\n\n1) Resolve to Rejoice\n\nPhilippians 4:4 (NIV)\n\n\nRejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! \n\n\n\n\nPsalm 61:1 (NIV)\n\n\nShout for joy to God, all the earth!\n\n\nPsalm 71:23 (NIV)\n\n\nMy lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I whom you have delivered.\n\n\nPsalm 95:1; Psalm 100:1, 2; Nehemiah 8:10; Luke 2:10; James 1:2, 3\n\n\n\n2) Restore Your Relationships\n\nPhilippians 4:1-3 (NIV)\n\n\nTherefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.\n\n\n\n\nPhilippians 4:5 (NIV)\n\n\nLet your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.\n\n\n\n\nJohn 15:10-12 (NIV)\n\n\nIf you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.\n\n\n\n\nMatthew 5:23, 24 (NIV)\n\n“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.\n\nRomans 12:18 (NIV) (see 14-21)\n\n\nIf it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. \n\n\n\n\n3) Raise Your Requests to God\n\nPhilippians 4:6, 7 (NIV)\n\n\nDo not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.\n\n\nRomans 15:13 (NIV)\n\n\nMay the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.\n\n\n\n\nPsalm 5:1-3 (NIV)\n\n\nListen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. 2 Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. 3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.\n\n\n\n\nRomans 8:26-28 (NIV)\n\n\nIn the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHOPE Church\n\ngfhope.org","content_html":"Pastor Paul Knight walks us through how to get our joy back.
\n\nPhilippians 4:1 (NIV)
\n\nTherefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
\n\nPhilippians 4:4 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
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Psalm 61:1 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nShout for joy to God, all the earth!
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Psalm 71:23 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nMy lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I whom you have delivered.
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Psalm 95:1; Psalm 100:1, 2; Nehemiah 8:10; Luke 2:10; James 1:2, 3
\n\n\n\nPhilippians 4:1-3 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTherefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
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Philippians 4:5 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLet your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
\n
John 15:10-12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.
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Matthew 5:23, 24 (NIV)
\n\n“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
\n\nRomans 12:18 (NIV) (see 14-21)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
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Philippians 4:6, 7 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nDo not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
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Romans 15:13 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
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Psalm 5:1-3 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nListen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. 2 Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. 3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.
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Romans 8:26-28 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nIn the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
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Philippians 3:1-11
\n\n\n\n\n“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. 2 Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. 3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. 7 But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
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NOTES:
\n\nNOTES:
\n\nNOTES:
\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 3:1-4,
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 3:4-9,
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 3:8-10,
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\n
\n
\n
Scriptures referenced: Philippians 2:12-13; Romans 6:16-23; 2 Peter 2:19,
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 2:14-15a; Romans 1:18-30,
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 2:15b-16
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\n
\n
\n
Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:27-2:4,
\n\nPhilippians 1:27-2:4 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
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Philippians 1:27-30 NIV
\n\n”Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.
\n\nPhilippians 1:29-30 NIV
\n\nFor it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
\n\nPhilippians 1:20-22 NIV
\n\nI eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!
\n\nEphesians 4:1-3 NIV
\n\nTherefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
\n\nColossians 1:9-14 NIV
\n\nWe continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
\n\nPhilippians 1:27b NIV
\n\nThen, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel
\n\nPhilippians 2:1-4 NIV
\n\nTherefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
\n\nJohn 17:20-23 NIV
\n\n“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
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Philippians 1:29 NIV
\n\nFor it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him. . .
\n\nPhilippians 1:29 NIV
\n\n…striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.
\n\nPhilippians 1:15-18 NIV
\n\nIt is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
\n\nRomans 10:14 NLT
\n\nBut how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?
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This week Pastor Mason invites to consider what a new work inside you means.
\n\n<br/4
\n\nScriptures referenced: Phil 1:6,
\n\nPhilippians 1:6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nbeing confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
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Implication #1 – Your salvation is an act of God, not of yourself
Implication #2 – Your salvation happened at a moment in time, but it isn’t just a moment in time
Implication #3 – Your salvation is a work but it isn’t just a work
Description #1 – Love will increase
A decision to love each other is a decision to love yourself and what you want, less – so that somebody else gets the reward of your effort*
Description #2 – Knowledge will increase
Description #3 – Depth of insight will increase
Result #1 – You will know what is best
Result #2 – You will arrive blameless
Result #3 – God will be glorified
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This week Pastor Mason takes us on a tour of the city of Philippi, to see how God still changes lives, can use anyone, and finishes what he started.
\n\nBOOK 1:1 (VER)
\n\n\n\n\nQuoted passage goes here...
\n
Scriptures referenced: Acts 16:6-40,
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 1:1-2, Acts 16:6-40,
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Philippians 1:6; Isaiah 55:11,
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This week we celebrate Jesus being risen. Pastor Paul knight asks us what difference does that make in our lives? Does it address fear, a desire to know Jesus, or making a difference in the lives of others?
\n\nMatthew 28:1-15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAfter the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 11 While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened.12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.
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Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:1-6, Matthew 28:10,
\n\n\n\nMatthew 28:1-6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAfter the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.
\n
Matthew 28:10 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThen Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
\n
Luke 2:9-11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAn angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
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Matthew 10:28-29 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDo not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.
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Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:5, 6, Matthew 28:8, 9, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8,
\n\n\n\nMatthew 28:5, 6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
\n
Matthew 28:8, 9 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSo the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him.
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1 Corinthians 15:3-8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:10, 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, 1 John 1:1-4
\n\n\n\nMatthew 28:10 (NIV)
\n\nThen Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:14, 15 (NIV)
\n\nFor Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
\n\nMatthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
\n\nThen Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
\n\nActs 1:8 (NIV)
\n\nBut you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
\n\n1 John 1:1-4 (NIV)
\n\nThat which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We write this to make our joy complete.
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A prayer that we all may desire to pray…
\n\n\n\n\nDear God,
\n\nI know that I am a sinner.
\n\n
\nI believe that Jesus died for my sins.
\nPlease forgive me for my sins. I receive your forgiveness. I receive you as my Savior.
\nI know that you are the Lord. I surrender control of my life into your hands. I receive you as my Lord. I desire to live as a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Thank you for loving me.Amen
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The words of Jesus are loud and clear, "no one comes to the father but through me" how we respond is up to us. As we walk through holy week, what soil will you be?
\n\n1) THE CONCRETE PATH. . . . AMBIVALENT. but nothing more
\n\nSee also Matthew 26:14-16,47-51; Matthew 27:11-26
\n\n2) THE ROCKY GROUND. . . CONFLICTED, but nothing more
\n\nSee also Matthew 1:11, Matthew 21:23-27
\n\n3) THE THORN-FILLED SOIL . . . RECEPTIVE, but nothing more
\n\nSee also Matthew 26:47-56; 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
","summary":"The words of Jesus are loud and clear, \"no one comes to the father but through me\" how we respond is up to us. As we walk through holy week, what soil will you be?","date_published":"2024-03-24T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/1aabd597-4058-469a-b422-47e06705e391.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":45432371,"duration_in_seconds":1893}]},{"id":"c18ced82-bfe3-4874-89d8-a8ef5f799496","title":"Episode 306: Genuine Faith","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/306","content_text":"Genuine Faith\n\nMarch 03, 2024\n\nPastor: Patrick Severson\n\n\n\nIf someone claims to be a follower of Christ but there is no change in their life are they really saved? Pastor Patrick Severson walks us through the concept of genuine faith.\n\nMain Scripture Reference(s): Matthew 25:31-46\n\nMatthew 25:31-46\n\n\n“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.\n\n“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’\n\n“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’\n\n“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’\n\n“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’\n\n“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’\n\n“He will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’\n\n“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”\n\n\n\n\n1) THE MEASURE OF GENUINE FAITH\n\nScriptures referenced: Matthew 25:40, James 2:18, Ephesians 2:8-10, James 1:27, John 4:8\n\n\n\n2) THE METHOD FOR GENUINE FAITH\n\nScriptures referenced: Psalm 34:8,\n\n\nKnow Jesus (Psalm 34:8)\nPosition yourself to be transformed by Jesus\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHOPE Church\n\ngfhope.org","content_html":"If someone claims to be a follower of Christ but there is no change in their life are they really saved? Pastor Patrick Severson walks us through the concept of genuine faith.
\n\nMatthew 25:31-46
\n\n\n\n\n“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
\n\n“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
\n\n“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
\n\n“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
\n\n“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
\n\n“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
\n\n“He will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
\n\n“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
\n
Scriptures referenced: Matthew 25:40, James 2:18, Ephesians 2:8-10, James 1:27, John 4:8
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Psalm 34:8,
\n\nKnow Jesus (Psalm 34:8)
Position yourself to be transformed by Jesus
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Coming from HOPE Studios, this is Hot Seat, where our pastors answer your burning questions, unfiltered.
\n\nListen along as Pastor Paul Knight, Pastor Patrick Severson, and Pastor Mason Peters, randomly draw your questions and answer them unfiltered.
","summary":"Hot Seat your burning questions. Our unfiltered answers. Welcome to Hot Seat. ","date_published":"2024-03-01T14:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/08639dc0-1c6b-4a36-af56-c145721e2b68.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18490606,"duration_in_seconds":1849}]},{"id":"f9e0923c-99e2-446a-bac8-1b7fdafa36cd","title":"Episode 305: Marriage: Sometimes You Need a Knot","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/305","content_text":"Marriage: Sometimes You Need a Knot\n\nFebruary 25, 2024\n\nPastor: Paul Knight \n\n\n\nSubmissiveness, servant-hood, and forgiveness, what would our marriages look like if we applied these concepts instead of looking at marriage being \"for me\"? This week Pastor Paul Knight asks us through what biblical marriage looks like.\n\nMain Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 5:21-33, Matthew 19:6,\n\nEphesians 5:21-33 (NIV) \n\n\nSubmit to one another out of reverence for Christ.\n\nWives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.\n\nHusbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body.31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.\n\n\n\n\nMatthew 19:6 (NIV)\n\n\n“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”\n\n\n1) Tighten your commitment to Living a Christ-like Picture of Marriage.\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:25, 29-33\n\nEphesians 5:25 (NIV) \n\n\nHusbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…\n\nAfter all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.\n\n\n\n\nPhilippians 2:5-8 (NIV)\n\n\nIn your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!\n\n\nSix Reasons Why Marriage Matters?\n\n\nFor the connection of men and women.\n\n\n(1 Corinthians 11:11 NLV; Genesis 2:18 NIV)\n\n\nFor the multiplication of the human race.\n\n\n(Malachi 2:15 NLT)\n\n\nFor the protection of children.\n\n\n(Proverbs 14:26 NASB)\n\n\nFor the perfection of our character.\n\n\n(Proverbs 18:1 CEV)\n\n\nFor the construction of society.\n\n\n(Proverbs 14:34 CEV)\n\n\nFor the reflection of our union with Christ.\n\n\n(Ephesians 5:26-33 NCV)\n\n2) Tighten your commitment to Living the Character of Christ in Marriage\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:21, 2 Corinthians 5:15, Philippians 2:7, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Colossians 3:13\n\nEphesians 5:21 (NIV)\n\n\nSubmit to one another out of reverence for Christ.\n\n\n\n\n2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV)\n\n\nAnd he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.\n\n\n\n\nPhilippians 2:7 (NIV)\n\n\n...rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant,\n\n\n\n\n1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)\n\n\nLove is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. \n\n\n\n\nColossians 3:13 (NIV)\n\n\nBear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.\n\n\n\nSubmission\nForgiveness\n\n\n\n\n\n“Couples don’t fall out of love so much as they fall out of repentance.”\n\n\n~Gary Thomas, Sacred Marriage\n\n\n\n3) **Tighten your Commitment to Living the Covenant of Marriage\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:31, Ephesians 5:31, Genesis 2:24, 25, Matthew 19:4-6\n\nEphesians 5:31 (NIV)\n\n\nFor this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”\n\n\n\n\nGenesis 2:24, 25 (NIV)\n\n\nThat is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. 25 Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.\n\n\n\n\nMatthew 19:4-6 (NIV)\n\n\n“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’[b]? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”\n\n\n\n\n\nA covenant is neither a cold contract nor merely an emotional pledge. It is giving your whole life to each other, not just physically but also legally, financially, emotionally, spiritually. The binding, legal commitment creates an unparalleled space for trust, vulnerability, and intimacy.\n\n\n~Tim Keller, author The Meaning of Marriage\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHOPE Church \n\ngfhope.org ","content_html":"Submissiveness, servant-hood, and forgiveness, what would our marriages look like if we applied these concepts instead of looking at marriage being "for me"? This week Pastor Paul Knight asks us through what biblical marriage looks like.
\n\nEphesians 5:21-33 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSubmit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
\n\nWives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.
\n\nHusbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body.31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
\n
Matthew 19:6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:25, 29-33
\n\nEphesians 5:25 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHusbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…
\n\nAfter all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
\n
Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nIn your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
\n
(1 Corinthians 11:11 NLV; Genesis 2:18 NIV)
\n\n(Malachi 2:15 NLT)
\n\n(Proverbs 14:26 NASB)
\n\n(Proverbs 18:1 CEV)
\n\n(Proverbs 14:34 CEV)
\n\n(Ephesians 5:26-33 NCV)
\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:21, 2 Corinthians 5:15, Philippians 2:7, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Colossians 3:13
\n\nEphesians 5:21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSubmit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
\n
2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
\n
Philippians 2:7 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant,
\n
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLove is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails.
\n
Colossians 3:13 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
\n
\n\n\n“Couples don’t fall out of love so much as they fall out of repentance.”
\n
~Gary Thomas, Sacred Marriage
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:31, Ephesians 5:31, Genesis 2:24, 25, Matthew 19:4-6
\n\nEphesians 5:31 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”
\n
Genesis 2:24, 25 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThat is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. 25 Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.
\n
Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’[b]? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
\n
\n\n\nA covenant is neither a cold contract nor merely an emotional pledge. It is giving your whole life to each other, not just physically but also legally, financially, emotionally, spiritually. The binding, legal commitment creates an unparalleled space for trust, vulnerability, and intimacy.
\n
~Tim Keller, author The Meaning of Marriage
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Work six take one. That's the pattern God outlined for us in the bible. What if we are a people who are to be different from other people. What if we are not made to be ruled by a schedule or work? Pastor Paul takes us through the concept of biblical rest, and how God might provide for us if we actually trusted.
\n\n\n\n\n“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
\n
Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals…
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Scriptures referenced: Exodus 20:8-11,
\n\nExodus 20:8-11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSix days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
\n\n“Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God has commanded you. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. . .
\n\nRemember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.
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Deuteronomy 5:12-15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God has commanded you. 13 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God..
\n\nRemember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.
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Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. 2 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
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Exodus 31:16-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come as a lasting covenant. 17 It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.’”
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Numbers 15:32-36 (NIV)
\n\nWhile the Israelites were in the wilderness, a man was found gathering wood on the Sabbath day. 33 Those who found him gathering wood brought him to Moses and Aaron and the whole assembly, 34 and they kept him in custody, because it was not clear what should be done to him. 35 Then the Lord said to Moses, “The man must die. The whole assembly must stone him outside the camp.” 36 So the assembly took him outside the camp and stoned him to death, as the Lord commanded Moses.
\n\n\n\nScriptures referenced: Exodus 16:14-30, Matthew 11:28-30, Matthew 6:25-34, Galatians 5:1, Colossians 2:16-17,
\n\n\n\nExodus 16:14-30 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. Moses said to them, “It is the bread the
\n\nLord has given you to eat. This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Everyone is to gather as much as they need. Take an omer for each person you have in your tent.’”
\n\nThe Israelites did as they were told...
\n\nThen Moses said to them, “No one is to keep any of it until morning.”
\n\nHowever, some of them paid no attention to Moses; they kept part of it until morning, but it was full of maggots and began to smell. So Moses was angry with them.
\n\nEach morning everyone gathered as much as they needed, and when the sun grew hot, it melted away. On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much—two omers for each person—and the leaders of the community came and reported this to Moses. 23 He said to them, “This is what the Lord commanded: ‘Tomorrow is to be a day of sabbath rest, a holy sabbath to the Lord. So bake what you want to bake and boil what you want to boil. Save whatever is left and keep it until morning.’”
\n\nSo they saved it until morning, as Moses commanded, and it did not stink or get maggots in it. “Eat it today,” Moses said, “because today is a sabbath to the Lord. You will not find any of it on the ground today. Six days you are to gather it, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, there will not be any.”
\n\nNevertheless, some of the people went out on the seventh day to gather it, but they found none. Then the Lord said to Moses, “How long will you refuse to keep my commands and my instructions? Bear in mind that the Lord has given you the Sabbath; that is why on the sixth day he gives you bread for two days. Everyone is to stay where they are on the seventh day; no one is to go out.” So the people rested on the seventh day.
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Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
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Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
\n\n…So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
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Galatians 5:1 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIt is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
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Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTherefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
\n
\n\n\n“Even beasts of burden must be turned out to grass occasionally; the very sea pauses at ebb and flood; earth keeps the sabbath in wintery months; and man, even when exalted to God’s ambassador, must recruit his vigor or grown prematurely old…In the long run we shall do more by sometimes doing less.” ~ Charles Spurgeon
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Scriptures referenced: Exodus 20:1-17 (NIV),
\n\nExodus 20:1-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery. 3 “You must not have any other god but me.
\n\n“You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. . .
\n\n“You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.
\n\n“I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery. 3 “You must not have any other god but me.
\n\n“You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. . .
\n\n“You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.
\n
\n\n\n\n\n“Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy.
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“Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you.
“You must not murder.
“You must not commit adultery.
“You must not steal.
“You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.
“You must not covet your neighbor’s house. You must not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor.”
Mark 2:27, 28 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThen he (Jesus) said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
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Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nTherefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. 17 These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
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| Legalism | \nLicense | \n
|---|---|
| "You have to Its law" | \n"Living excessively away from the law" | \n
Isaiah 56:1-2 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThis is what the Lord says: “Maintain justice and do what is right, for my salvation is close at hand and my righteousness will soon be revealed. Blessed is the one who does this— the person who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it, and keeps their hands from doing any evil.”
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\n\n\nI am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor.
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\n
\n
\n
Making Your Work "More"
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSince, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
\n\nSo from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
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Where is your place of deployment?
\n\nScriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:20, 2 Corinthians 5:11-15, 1 Corinthians 7:17
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.
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2 Corinthians 5:11-15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSince, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
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1 Corinthians 7:17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches.
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A Daily Affirmation:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nI am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Book 1:1,
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:16-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSo from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
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Mark 12:30, 31 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n“The most important one (Commandment),” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
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Romans 5:8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nYou see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
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1 John 4:19 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWe love because he first loved us.
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Genesis 1:26-28 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThen God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness...
\n\nSo God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them...
\n
Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 4:10, 11, Ephesians 2:10,
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAll this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
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Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nIn the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
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1 Peter 4:10, 11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nEach of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
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Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
\n
A Daily Affirmation:
\n\n\n\n\nI am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor.
\n
\n
\n
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Making Your Work "More"
\n\nColossians 3:17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAnd whatever you do, whether in word or deed,
\n\ndo it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
\n\ngiving thanks to God the Father through him.
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Colossians 3:1-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSince, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
\n\nPut to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
\n\nLet the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
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Four Guide Words for Doing Work in the Name of the Lord
\n\nWork that glorifies is done by people who know they are His.
\n\nScriptures referenced: Colossians 3:1, Colossians 3:3, Colossians 3:12, Colossians 3:23,24,
\n\nColossians 3:1 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSince, then, you have been raised with Christ,
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Colossians 3:3 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
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Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTherefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,
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Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…
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Work that glorifies is done with the values of Jesus Christ.
\n\nScriptures referenced: Colossians 3:5-11, Colossians 3:12-14,
\n\nColossians 3:5-11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPut to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.
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Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nTherefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
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Work that glorifies is done to the best of your ability for Jesus Christ.
\n\nScriptures referenced: Colossians 3:23,24, Colossians 3:10, Colossians 3:15,16, Colossians 3:23-25, Genesis 1:31,
\n\nColossians 3:23,24 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…
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Colossians 3:10 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n…and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
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Colossians 3:15,16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nLet the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
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Colossians 3:23-25 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.
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Genesis 1:31 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGod saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.
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Work that glorifies is done with an eye on eternity.
\n\nColossians 3:1b-4 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n…set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
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Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.
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1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBy the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. 14 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. 15 If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.
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2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nTherefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
\n\n“The main thing God gets out of your life is not the achievements you accomplish. It’s the person you become.” ~ Dallas Willard
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\n
\n
Making Your Work "More"
\n\nGenesis 2:1-3 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.
\n\nBy the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
\n
Genesis 2:15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThe Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
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Exodus 20:9 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSix days you shall labor and do all your work . . .
\n\nbut the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord… (Sabbath means rest)
\n
Scriptures referenced: Genesis 2:15,
\n\nGenesis 2:15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
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Genesis 3:17-18 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n“Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life. 18 It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. 19 By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.”
\n
God hasn’t called us merely to make a living.
He has invited us to make a life!
John 10:10 (NASB)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would
\n
\nhave life, and have it abundantly
Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.
\n\nBy the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
\n
Genesis 2:15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThe Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
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Exodus 20:9 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSix days you shall labor and do all your work . . .
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2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” 11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat.
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Ephesians 4:22-29 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nYou were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
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Genesis 1:27 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSo God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”
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Genesis 2:19-20 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals.
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John 3:16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor God so loved the world that he gave
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Genesis 2:15 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThe Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
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Deuteronomy 8:18 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.
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For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nReview the main idea behind each of the points.
Read all the related Scripture passages.
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Discovering the art of being a spiritual influencer
\n\n“Discovering the art of being a spiritual influencer.”
\n\nScriptures referenced: Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 6:30-37, John 4:9-15, Luke 19:1-6 & 9-10
\n\nMatthew 9:9-13 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAs Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth. "Follow me," he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. 10 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. 11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" 12 On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'* For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
\n
Mark 6:30-37 (NIV)
\n\nThe apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. 35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. "This is a remote place," they said, "and it's already very late. 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat."
\n\nJohn 4:9-15 (NIV)
\n\nThe Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.*) 10 Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." 11 "Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?" 13 Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life." 15 The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
\n\nJohn 19:1-6 (NIV)
\nJesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. 5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.
John 19:9-10 (NIV)
\nJesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
Scriptures referenced: Mark 1:17, Acts 1:6-8, Acts 3:19, Habakkuk 3:1, 2,
\n\nMark 1:17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAnd Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men."*
\n
Acts 1:6-8 (NIV)
\n\nThen they gathered around him and asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
\n\nActs 3:19 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nRepent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
\n
Habakkuk 3:1, 2 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nA prayer of Habakkuk the prophet. On shigionoth.*
\n
“Revival and prayer always go together. They are inseparably linked.” ~David Mains
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nReview the main idea behind each of the points.
Read all the related Scripture passages.
\n
\n
\n
The Most Popular Book… Can You Trust It?
\n\nIsaiah 40:8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThe grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.
\n
2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God* may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
\n
Luke 19:37-40 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhen he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 38 "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!"* "Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" 39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!" 40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
\n
Scriptures referenced: Genesis 14:9-12, Genesis 19:23-26
\n\nA. Sodom and Gomorrah
\n\nGenesis 14:9-12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAgainst Kedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goyim, Amraphel king of Shinar and Arioch king of Ellasar--four kings against five. 10 Now the Valley of Siddim was full of tar pits, and when the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, some of the men fell into them and the rest fled to the hills. 11 The four kings seized all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah and all their food; then they went away. 12 They also carried off Abram's nephew Lot and his possessions, since he was living in Sodom.
\n
Genesis 19:23-26 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBy the time Lot reached Zoar, the sun had risen over the land. 24 Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah--from the LORD out of the heavens. 25 Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all those living in the cities--and also the vegetation in the land. 26 But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.
\n
B. Megiddo and Solomon's Stables
\n\nScriptures referenced: 2 Chronicles 9:25-28
\n\n2 Chronicles 9:25-28 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSolomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horses,* which he kept in the chariot cities and also with him in Jerusalem. 26 He ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River to the land of the Philistines, as far as the border of Egypt. 27 The king made silver as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as plentiful as sycamore-fig trees in the foothills. 28 Solomon's horses were imported from Egypt and from all other countries.
\n
Nelson Glueck
\n\n\n\n\n“Don’t walk away at the first sign of a contradiction or a problem. Sometimes scientific study needs to play catch up with the Bible.
\n
C. The Pool of Bethsaida
\n\nJohn 5:1-9 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSome time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda* and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. 3 Here a great number of disabled people used to lie--the blind, the lame, the paralyzed.* 4 5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?" 7 "Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
\n
A. Balaam
\n\nScriptures referenced: Numbers 22:4-6, umbers 22:22-40
\n\nNumber 22:4-6
\n\n\n\n\nThe Moabites said to the elders of Midian, "This horde is going to lick up everything around us, as an ox licks up the grass of the field." So Balak son of Zippor, who was king of Moab at that time, 5 sent messengers to summon Balaam son of Beor, who was at Pethor, near the Euphrates River, in his native land. Balak said: "A people has come out of Egypt; they cover the face of the land and have settled next to me. 6 Now come and put a curse on these people, because they are too powerful for me. Perhaps then I will be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land. For I know that whoever you bless is blessed, and whoever you curse is cursed."
\n
Numbers 22:22-40 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, it turned off the road into a field. Balaam beat it to get it back on the road. 24 Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path through the vineyards, with walls on both sides. 25 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, it pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it. So he beat the donkey again. 26 Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, it lay down under Balaam, and he was angry and beat it with his staff. 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and it said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?
\n
B. King David
\n\nScriptures referenced: 2 Samuel 11:1-3, Psalm 23:1-4, Acts 13:21-23
\n\n2 Samuel 11:1-3
\n\n\n\n\nIn the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem. 2 One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, 3 and David sent someone to find out about her. The man said, "She is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite."
\n
Psalm 23:1-4
\n\n\n\n\nA psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,* I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
\n
Acts 13:21-23
\n\n\n\n\nThen the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years. 22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.' 23 "From this man's descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised.
\n
C. Pontius Pilate
\n\nScriptures referenced: Matthew 27:22-26 NIV
\n\nMatthew 27:22-26 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhat shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?" Pilate asked. They all answered, "Crucify him!" 23 "Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!" 24 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood," he said. "It is your responsibility!" 25 All the people answered, "His blood is on us and on our children!" 26 Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified
\n
F.F. Bruce
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“It can’t have been so easy as some writers seem to think to invent words and deeds of Jesus in those early years, when so many of his disciples were about, who could remember what had and had not happened.”
\n
Scriptures referenced: Micah 5:2, Isaiah 53:3-6, Psalm 22:1, Psalm 22:14-18, Matthew 24:1-2, Matthew 24:42-44, Acts 1:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-4, Revelation 22:20-21
\n\nA. The Messiah to be born in Bethlehem
\n\nMicah 5:2 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans* of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
\n
B. The Suffering Messiah
\n\nIsaiah 53:3-6 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nHe was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. 4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
\n
Psalm 22:1 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n*For the director of music. To the tune of "The Doe of the Morning." A psalm of David. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?
\n
Psalm 22:14-18 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor the director of music. To the tune of "The Doe of the Morning." A psalm of David. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?
\n
C. The Destruction of the Temple
\n\nMatthew 24:1-2 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nJesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. 2 "Do you see all these things?" he asked. "Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down."
\n
D. Yet to be fulfilled: The Return of Jesus Christ
\n\nMatthew 24:42-44 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. 43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
\n
Acts 1:10-11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."
\n
1 Thessalonians 5:1-4 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.
\n
Revelation 22:20-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nHe who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen.
\n
Augustine
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Holy Scriptures are our letters from home.
\n
For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review:
\n\nAsk yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nThe Bible is not an ordinary book.
\n\nIn what ways do you personally find the bible unique?
How do the claims of the bible invite you or ghallenge you?
Do you treat the bible in a way that is consistent with it's uniqueness?
\n
\n
\n
The Most Popular Book… Can You Trust It?
\n\n2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAll Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
\n
Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nNun Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
\n
Jeremiah 15:16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhen your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty.
\n
Proverbs 2:1-10 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nMy child,* listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. 2 Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. 3 Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. 4 Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. 5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 7 He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:16, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, 1 Peter 1:19-21
\n\n2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAll Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
\n
1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAnd we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.
\n
1 Peter 1:19-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nbut with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. 21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:14-17, 2 Timothy 3:6-7, Acts 17:11-12, 2 Peter 1:16
\n\n2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God* may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
\n
2 Timothy 3:6-7 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, 7 always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
\n
Acts 17:11-12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
\n
2 Peter 1:16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Timothy 3:1-14, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 119:11, 1 Peter 3:15-16
\n\n2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAll Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God* may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
\n
2 Timothy 3:1-14 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God-- 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. 6 They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires,
\n
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
\n
Psalm 119:11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nI have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
\n
1 Peter 3:15-16 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBut in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
\n
For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review:
\n\nAsk yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nThe Bible is not an ordinary book.
\n\nIn what ways do you personally find the bible unique?
How do the claims of the bible invite you or ghallenge you?
Do you treat the bible in a way that is consistent with it's uniqueness?
\n
\n
\n
Living the Two Step Life. One step away from the darkness, one step toward the light.
\n\nEphesians 5:8-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible--and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said: "Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:1-7, 1 Corinthians 11:1,
\n\nEphesians 5:1-7 (NASB)
\n\n\n\n\nFollow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a person is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.* 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.
\n
1 Corinthians 11:1 (NASB)
\n\n\n\n\nFollow my example, as I follow the example of Christ
\n
Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.
\n\nEphesians 5:1-7 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFollow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a person is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.* 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.
\n
Ephesians 5:8-10 NIV (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:18-21, Ephesians 1:13-14, Acts 1:8, Ephesians 4:29-32
\n\nEphesians 5:18-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nDo not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
\n
Ephesians 1:13-14 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nAnd you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory.
\n
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
\n
Ephesians 4:29-32
\n\n\n\n\nDo not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
\n
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
\n\nScriptures referenced: Galatians 5:22-25 NIV, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NIV
\n\nGalatians 5:22-25 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
\n
1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,* and to still another the interpretation of tongues.* 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
\n
Who is the Holy Spirit?
\n\nWhat does the Holy Spirit do?
\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:18-21, Philippians 2:4-8, Ephesians 3:14-21
\n\nEphesians 5:18-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nDo not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
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Philippians 2:4-8 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nLet each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,* 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,* 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,* being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
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Ephesians 3:14-21 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family* in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
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Being Filled with the Holy Spirit – (vs. 18)
\n\nDiscussion Questions, Thoughts, and Things to Ponder
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party
\n\nQuick Review
\n\nAsk yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nReview the main idea behind each of the points.
\n\nRead all the related Scripture passages.
\n\nFill Us Up, Please!
\n\nIf we are following Jesus, we should be like Jesus, shouldn’t we?
\n\nIn your own life, where are you noticing that you are becoming more like Jesus?\nIf you would think of general areas (finances, attentiveness, sexuality, thoughts, actions, etc.), where do you think it would be important for you to become more like Jesus?
What is your greatest spiritual hinderance to becoming more like Jesus?
Notes:
\n\nTo be more like Jesus, we need the Holy Spirit, don’t we.
\n\nWhat are some of your initial thoughts about the Holy Spirit? What do you know about Him?
Would you say you are aware of your need for Him?
How would you describe your “feelings” toward the Holy Spirit? (nervous, craving, idolatrous, unsure, etc.)
Notes:
\n\nBecause we want to be like Jesus, we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit, all of us, all the time.
\n\nIf you are not full of the Holy Spirit, what are you full of? Can you describe the competitors to the Holy Spirit’s fullness?
What would yielding to the Spirit look like in your life?
Would you pray right now through Ephesians 3:14-21. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit and to strengthen you in your inner being with His power.
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Be Church! Living up into who we are
\n\nEphesians 5:3-8 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:3-4
\n\nEphesians 5:3-4 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
\n
Stymptom #1: Immorality
\n\nScriptures referenced: Matthew 5:27-28; James 1:14-15
\n\nMatthew 5:27-28 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nYou have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
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Stymptom #2: Greed
\n\nStymptom #3: Obscenity
\n\nIdolatry also known as Discontent
\n\nLoss of the Kingdom
\n\nGratitude
\n\n
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Be Church! Living up into who we are
\n\nEphesians 5:1-2 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nTherefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Genesis 1:26, Leviticus 11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7; 20:26; 21:8, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Matthew 5:48
\n\nGenesis 1:26 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nThen God said, "Let us make man* in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
\n
Leviticus 11:44-45 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy. You shall not defile yourselves with any swarming thing that crawls on the ground. 45 For I am the LORD who brought you up out of the land of Egypt to be your God. You shall therefore be holy, for I am holy."
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Leviticus 19:2 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nSpeak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them, You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.
\n
Leviticus 20:7 (ESV)
\nConsecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the LORD your God.
Leviticus 20:26 (ESV)
\nYou shall be holy to me, for I the LORD am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine.
Leviticus 21:8 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nYou shall sanctify him, for he offers the bread of your God. He shall be holy to you, for I, the LORD, who sanctify you, am holy.
\n
1 Peter 1:15-16 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nbut as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."
\n
Matthew 5:48 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nYou therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, John 13:35
\n\n1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nLove is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;* 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
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John 13:35 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBy this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
\n
Scriptures referenced: Romans 8:15, Matthew 6:9, Galatians 4:6-7, John 1:12
\n\nRomans 8:15 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!"
\n
Matthew 6:9 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nPray then like this: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.*
\n
Galatians 4:6-7 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nAnd because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" 7 So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.
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John 1:12 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
\n
Scriptures referenced: John 15:13
\n\nJohn 15:13 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nGreater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
\n
--DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER--
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party:
\n\nQuick Review:
\n\nAsk yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
Review the main idea behind each of the points below:
\n\nVerse 1 tells us to be imitators of God. How are we to imitate God? Who is our model?
What areas of your life are in conflict with being an imitator of God?
What does is look like to walk out Love?
Do you see yourself as a child of God? Are there things that have happened in your own life that have kept you from trusting God completely?
What does your Gospel love look like?
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\n
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Be Church! Living up into who we are
\n\nEphesians 4:20-24 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut that is not the way you learned Christ!-- 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self,* which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 13:11, Ephesians 4:31, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, 1 Corinthians 14:20, Ephesians 4:13-15
\n\n1 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhen I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.
\n
Ephesians 4:31 (NLV)
\n\n\n\n\nLet all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
\n
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
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1 Corinthians 14:20 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nBrothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature.
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Ephesians 4:13-15 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nThis will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:22-23, Romans 12:2
\n\nEphesians 4:22-23 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nThrow off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.
\n
Romans 12:2 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nDon't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:24, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 Peter 1:13-16, Romans 6:12-14
\n\nEphesians 4:24 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nPut on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy.
\n
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nThis means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
\n
1 Peter 1:13-16 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nSo think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14 So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. 15 But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. 16 For the Scriptures say, "You must be holy because I am holy."
\n
Romans 6:12-14 (NLT)
\n\n\n\n\nDo not let sin control the way you live;* do not give in to sinful desires. 13 Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. 14 Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God's grace.
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\n
Be Church! Living up into who we are
\n\nEphesians 4:17-19 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
\n
Scriptures referenced:
\n\nScriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:18
\n\nEphesians 4:18 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesian 4:15, Ephesians 4:16
\n\nEphesian 4:15 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nRather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesian 4:18
\n\nEphesian 4:18 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.
\n
Ephesian 4:18 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.
\n
Ephesian 4:19 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
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Ephesian 4:19 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nThey have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
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\n
\n
\n
Ephesians 4:14-16 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nSo that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
\n
Scriptures referenced: John 8:43-45 NIV, John 8:32 NIV, John 8:36 NIV
\n\nJohn 8:43-45 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nWhy is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. 44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!
\n
John 8:32 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nThen you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
\n
John 8:36 (NIV)
\n\n\n\n\nSo if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:15
\n\nEphesians 4:15 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nRather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesian 4:15, Ephesians 4:16
\n\nEphesian 4:15 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nRather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
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\n
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Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:12 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nTo equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
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Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:13
\n\nEphesians 4:13 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nUntil we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,* to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:13
\n\nEphesians 4:13 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nUntil we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,* to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
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\n
\n
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Ephesians 4:7-10 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nBut to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men."* (Now this, "He ascended"--what does it mean but that He also first* descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)
\n
Scriptures referenced: Matthew 25:15, Ephesians 3:8-9 (NKJV)
\n\nScriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 12:7, Romans 12:4–6
\n\n1 Corinthians 12:7 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nTo each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
\n
Rom 12:4–6 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor as in one body we have many members,* and the members do not all have the same function so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;
\n
Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:8, Psalm 68:18
\n\nEph 4:8 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nTherefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men."
\n
Psalms 68:18 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nYou have ascended on high, You have led captivity captive; You have received gifts among men, Even from the rebellious, That the LORD God might dwell there.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 1 Peter 4:10
\n\n1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nAs each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
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\n
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Matthew 21:1-11 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow when they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage,* at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Loose [them] and bring [them] to Me. 3 "And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them,' and immediately he will send them." 4 All* this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: 5 "Tell the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your King is coming to you, Lowly, and sitting on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.' "* 6 So the disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their clothes on them, and set [Him]* on them.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV)
\n\nPhilippians 2:5-8 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nHave this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,* 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,* 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,* being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
\n
Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 1:26-29
\n\n1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (ESV)
\n\n\n\n\nFor consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards,* not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being* might boast in the presence of God.
\n
Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:16-20
\n\nMatthew 28:16-20 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nThen the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 "Go therefore* and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, [even] to the end of the age." Amen.*
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\n
\n
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John 4 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nTherefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), 3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. 4 But He needed to go through Samaria. 5 So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from [His] journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink."
\n
Scriptures referenced: John 4:6-9
\n\nJohn 4:6-9 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nNow Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from [His] journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink." 8 For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9 Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.
\n
Scriptures referenced: John 4:26
\n\nJohn 4:26 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nJesus said to her, "I who speak to you am [He]."
\n
Scriptures referenced: John 13:35
\n\nJhn 13:35 )NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\n"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
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Scriptures referenced: Matthew 9:35
\n\nMatthew 9:35 (NKJV)
\n\n\n\n\nThen Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.*
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\n
\n
\n
Ephesians 3:14-15, Ephesians 3:20, Matthew 6:1-9, Psalm 95:6-7
\n\nNotes:
\n\nEphesians 3:16-17
\n\nEphesians 3:17 (The Living Bible) And I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts, living within you as you trust in him.
\n\nEphesians 3:14 & 16 ESV For this reason I bow my knees before the Father . . . that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—
\n\nNotes:
\n\nEphesians 3:17-19, Philippians 1:9-11, 1 John 3:1-3
\n\nNotes:
\nNext Sunday: Ephesians 3:19-21
Ephesians 2:18, 1 John 4:14-15
\n\nEphesians 2:19
\n\nEphesians 2:20, Matthew 7:24-27, Isaiah 28:16
\n\nEphesians 2:21-22
\n\n“The presence of God is what constitutes a temple, not a structure.”
\n\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention? \n Review the main idea behind each of the points below.\n Through Him we have Access.\n Through Him we Belong.\n On Him is laid the Foundation.\n In Him we are Connected\nHow did Christ accomplish His reconciliation? Check out Ephesians 2:13, Ephesians 2:15, Ephesians 2:16, and Ephesians 2:18.\nWhat are the results/benefits of the reconciliation that Christ brought about?\nWhat does it mean to you to be a Citizen/Family member of God’s household?\nWhat in your life keeps you off kilter or out of alignment?\nHow can you become more connected with those around and be The Church?\nEphesians 2:11-12, Colossians 1:21-23, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17
\n\nSeparated from. . .
\n\nGod
One Another
Notes:
\n\nEphesians 2:13, Hebrews 9:20-22, Hebrews 10:1-3, Hebrews 10:11-14, 10:18, Colossians 1:19-20
\n\nNotes:
\n\nEphesians 2:11-12, Deuteronomy 6:4-12, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
\n\nNotes:
\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention? \n Review the main idea behind each of the points below?\n Separated\n Blood\n Remember \nEphesians 2:13 says, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near . . . “\n In what ways do you sense that you have been brought near to God?\n How do you notice in your personal life the reality of you being “brought near” to others?\nWhere are you separated from others in ways that Christ would desire otherwise?\nHow do you understand the importance of the blood of Jesus Christ being shed?\nThink about and describe how you have been “brought near” through the blood of Christ?\nIs this practically true in your life?\nWhen called on to remember your former life, what comes to mind?\nHow do you remember the wonderful things God has done for you?\nWhat is the difference between remembering in a good way and remembering in a harmful way?\nWhat comes to your memory during the Lord’s Supper?\nNotes:
","summary":"","date_published":"2022-02-06T12:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/46a632d4-b639-4feb-a7e3-0b0cc4b1cb64.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25210148,"duration_in_seconds":2100}]},{"id":"4bf96a0f-b922-46c4-86a4-6805d6c68802","title":"Episode 95: You are a piece of work!","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/95","content_text":"\n You are a piece of work!\n\n\nEphesians 2:10 NASB\n\nFor we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.\n\nGenesis 2:7, Genesis 1:26-27, Genesis 1:31, Philippians 1:6 \n\n\nYou are the best you, “in Christ.”\n\n\nEphesians 2:10 NIV\n\n. . . created in Christ Jesus . . .\n\n2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:1-2, Galatians 5:16-25 \n\n\nYou! Do good.\n\n\nEphesians 2:10 NASB\n\nFor we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.\n\n1 Corinthians 15:10, James 2:17-19, Matthew 5:14-16\n\nDiscussion Questions, Thoughts, and Things to Ponder\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party\n\nQuick Review\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n Review the main idea behind each of the points below?\n\n You are a piece of work!\n You are the best you, “in Christ.”\n\n You! Do good.\nHow do you internally respond to the reality that you are a work of God, His masterpiece?\nIn what ways do you see the handiwork of God in your life?\nCan you describe a time when you were “the best you” in your relationship with Jesus Christ?\nIf you look at your life like a piece of sculpture, who has been doing of the sculpting (God, Satan, Self)?\nCan you identify an area where God is working in you currently?\nHow do you respond to the idea of doing good works as a lifestyle instead of a project?\nPastor Paul mentioned that a lot of Christians have been trained not to do wrong or not to do bad rather than trained to do good. How is this been true or not true in your life?\nHe also mentioned that sometimes we are more concerned with being right than being good. How do you react to that idea?\nImagine if all the Christ followers would be like streams of living water, doing good in the name of Jesus. What do you think could happen?\n","content_html":"Ephesians 2:10 NASB
\n\nFor we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
\n\nGenesis 2:7, Genesis 1:26-27, Genesis 1:31, Philippians 1:6
\n\nEphesians 2:10 NIV
\n\n. . . created in Christ Jesus . . .
\n\n2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:1-2, Galatians 5:16-25
\n\nEphesians 2:10 NASB
\n\nFor we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
\n\n1 Corinthians 15:10, James 2:17-19, Matthew 5:14-16
\n\nDiscussion Questions, Thoughts, and Things to Ponder
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party
\n\nQuick Review\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n Review the main idea behind each of the points below?\n\n You are a piece of work!\n You are the best you, “in Christ.”\n\n You! Do good.\nHow do you internally respond to the reality that you are a work of God, His masterpiece?\nIn what ways do you see the handiwork of God in your life?\nCan you describe a time when you were “the best you” in your relationship with Jesus Christ?\nIf you look at your life like a piece of sculpture, who has been doing of the sculpting (God, Satan, Self)?\nCan you identify an area where God is working in you currently?\nHow do you respond to the idea of doing good works as a lifestyle instead of a project?\nPastor Paul mentioned that a lot of Christians have been trained not to do wrong or not to do bad rather than trained to do good. How is this been true or not true in your life?\nHe also mentioned that sometimes we are more concerned with being right than being good. How do you react to that idea?\nImagine if all the Christ followers would be like streams of living water, doing good in the name of Jesus. What do you think could happen?\n-- Main Scripture Reference --
\n\nEphesians 2:1-10
\n\nAs for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh* and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
\n\n-- Serman Notes --
\n\nEph 2:1-3 NIV - 1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh* and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.
Eph 2:8-9 NIV - 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.
Eph 2:4-8 NIV - 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--
Rom 5:6-8 NIV - 6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Eph 2:9 NIV - 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.
Col 3:12-13 NIV - 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
-- Discussion Questions, Thoughts and Things to Ponder --
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\n* Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\n* Review the main idea behind each of the points below:\n\n * Are you saved?\n * If you are saved... you didn't do it.\n * If you are saved... God did it.\n * If you are saved... Stop boasting\nAre you saved? Tell or rehearse your salvation story.
If you are not saved, what is holding you back? Can you surrender that thing and take a step of faith?
Who do you know that needs to hear what God has done for you??
In what ways do you seem to be trying to earn your salvation?
Why is God's grace so difficult to receive?
Looking back, can you see the hand of God in your salvation?
Are there areas of your life or relationships where you tned to boast about who you are in Christ or areas where you demonstrate an arrogance about being a Christ follower?
Can you ask God to make you more humble?
-- Get Connected --
\n\n\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"If you are saved who is responsible you or God? Paul Knight takes us through the proper humble view of being saved.","date_published":"2022-01-23T12:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/ca1fca22-4739-4138-844d-ee1b226a2fd0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23163193,"duration_in_seconds":1930}]},{"id":"33e89c3a-2b53-45f4-b805-8fff47266fa4","title":"Episode 91: When Opportunity Knocks","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/91","content_text":"DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party\n\nQuick Review:\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n Review the main idea points.\n 1. Opportunities Lost\n 2. Opportunities Seized\nWhat is the result of obedience to Jesus?\nWhat is the result of living a life of faithfulness to God?\nWhat is the result of living out the good works that Jesus created us to live by the power of God’s Holy Spirit?\n Well, jump back to verse 34! The reward is for us to, “. . . inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”\nWhen seeing someone in need whether in person or through media, what is your first reaction? Is it a reaction of compassion or is it to look away and ignore the need?\nWhat are ways in which we can serve the community, our neighbors, our church, and those within other places of need that is outside our realm of touch?\n","content_html":"DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review:\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n Review the main idea points.\n 1. Opportunities Lost\n 2. Opportunities Seized\nWhat is the result of obedience to Jesus?\nWhat is the result of living a life of faithfulness to God?\nWhat is the result of living out the good works that Jesus created us to live by the power of God’s Holy Spirit?\n Well, jump back to verse 34! The reward is for us to, “. . . inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”\nWhen seeing someone in need whether in person or through media, what is your first reaction? Is it a reaction of compassion or is it to look away and ignore the need?\nWhat are ways in which we can serve the community, our neighbors, our church, and those within other places of need that is outside our realm of touch?\nPrayer of Thanks for Faith and Love (verses 15, 16)
\nEphesians 1:15-16, 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4, Matthew 5:14-16, John 13:34-35, Romans 1:16-17, Hebrews 10:22-24
Prayer to Know God Better
\n Ephesians 1:17, John 17:3, Mark 10:21-22, Philippians 3:7-11 NLT
Prayer to Know Hope and Power
\n Ephesians 1:18-23, Hebrews 11:1-2, 1 Peter 1:3-4, 1 Peter 3:14-16, Ephesians 3:14-19 NLT
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
Quick Review:
\n\nAsk yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
Review the main idea behind each of the points below.
\n * Prayer of Thanks for Faith and Love (verses 15, 16)
\n * Prayer to Know Jesus Christ
\n * Prayer to know Hope and Power
Who have you or are you noticing whose faith and love is evident? Pause now and give thanks for them.
Do you think your faith and love is evident to others?
Are you in an active relationship with Jesus Christ?
Who could you ask to pray for you that God would give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better? List a few people you will pray for today.
In what area of your life do you need an infusion of God’s hope?
In what area of your life do you need to be more aware of God’s incomparably great power?
Stop and pray about these things that God has revealed to us.
Eph 1:1-14 NIV - 1
\n\nPaul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To God's holy people in Ephesus,* the faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he* predestined us for adoption to sonship* through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will-- 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
\n\nEph 1:11-13 NIV - 11
\n\nIn him we were also chosen,* having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12 in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,
\n\nLuk 8:11-15 NIV - 11
\n\n"This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. 15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.
\n\nLuk 8:21 NIV - 21
\n\nHe replied, "My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into practice."
\n\nJas 1:22-25 NIV - 22
\n\nDo not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it--not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it--they will be blessed in what they do.
\n\nEph 1:7 NIV - 7
\n\nIn him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
\n\nJhn 16:5-8 NIV - 5
\n\nbut now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, 'Where are you going?' 6 Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. 7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8 When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment:
\n\nEph 4:29-32 NIV - 29
\n\nDo not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
\n\nPhl 1:6 NIV - 6
\n\nbeing confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
\n\n1Pe 1:3-5 NIV - 3
\n\nPraise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
\n\nEph 1:3 NIV - 3
\n\nPraise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
\n\nEph 1:6 NIV - 6
\n\nto the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.
\n\nJhn 9:1-3 NIV - 1
\n\nAs he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" 3 "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
\n\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party
\n\nQuick Review:
\n\nTHE BEAUTIFUL RETURN
\nReturning to where God desires us to be is beautiful. Step into that beautiful return.
Acts 2:42-47 NIV
\nThey devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
\nA ___________ People
Acts 2:22-24 NIV
\n“Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
Acts 2:38, 39 NIV
\nPeter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”
Romans 1:16 NIV
\nFor I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
\nAn ___________ people
The Source of their power
\na. ___________
Acts 1:8 NIV
\nBut you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
\nb. ___________
Acts 2:46, 47 NIV
\nEvery day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.
\nc. ___________
Acts 2:46 NIV
\nEvery day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,
\nA ___________ people
Acts 2:42 NIV
\nThey devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching . . .
Ephesians 6:17 NIV
\nTake the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
1 Corinthians 2:14 :NIV
\nThe person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.
John 1:14 NIV
\nThe Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
\nA ___________ people
Acts 2:42 NIV
\nThey devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Acts 2:44 NIV
\nAll the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.
1 Corinthians 6:19, 20 NIV
\nDo you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.
Romans 12:4, 5 NIV
\nFor just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Acts 20:35 NIV
\n“…remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
\nA ___________ people
Acts 2:47 NIV
\n. . . and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Matthew 28:16-20 NIV
\nThen the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
1 Peter 2:11, 12 NIV
\nDear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
\nWe are ___________!
\nThe church is a people not a place.
DISCUSSION UESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party
\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\na. A Gospel People
\n\nb. An Empowered People
\n\nc. A God’s Word People
\n\nd. A Giving People
\n\ne. A Mission People
\n\nWhen you think of the above characteristics, where do you think the church is doing well?
Where do you think the church needs improvement?
What makes a person a part of the church? Are you a part of God’s family, the Church?
a. For more information about receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and becoming a part of His family, the Church, text: MadeNew to 474747
\n\nThinking of the characteristics above, where do you contribute well to the church living the characteristics?
For the sake of the church, where do you think you need to improve?
What is your next step?
To connect in a lifegroup check out this link: https://www.gfhope.org/lifegroups
","summary":"","date_published":"2021-10-10T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/19587f8d-2ff2-4b1e-aea2-cb132031ca00.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26149302,"duration_in_seconds":2179}]},{"id":"0ea48f65-41e2-45b5-ba9b-c888f6e5c536","title":"Episode 76: When Your One Another is Broken, Return.","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/76","content_text":"Matthew 18:15-20 NIV\n\n“If your brother or sister sins (against you), go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.\n18 “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.\n19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”\n\nMatthew 18:21-35 NIV\n\nThen Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”\n22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.\n23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.\n26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.\n28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.\n29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’\n30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.\n32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.\n35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”\n\n\nOne Anothering well is the ____________ of your ____________, be forgiving.\n\n\nMatthew 18:15-20 NIV\n\n“If your brother or sister sins (against you), go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.\n\nMatthew 5:23, 24 NIV\n\n“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.\n\nJohn 17:20-22 NIV\n\n“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—\n\nEphesians 4:3 NIV\n\nMake every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.\n\n1 Corinthians 11:17, 18 NIV\n\nIn the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it.\n\nMatthew 5:43-48 NIV\n\n“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.\n\nForgiveness:\n\nI will live with the consequences of your sin and not seek vengeance or retribution, but rather your blessing.\nOne Anothering well affects ____________ ____________, be forgiving.\n\nMatthew 18:21, 22 NIV\n\nThen Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.\n\nColossians 3:13 NIV\n\nBear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.\n\nMatthew 6:12 NIV\n\nAnd forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.\n\nGalatians 5:1 NIV\n\nIt is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.\n\n· Forgiveness doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter\n\n· Forgiveness doesn’t mean there has to be trust\n\n· Forgiveness doesn’t mean you forget.\n\n· It does affect your relationship with God too\n\n· The goal to God is always to heal your broken one another.\n\n· Forgiveness reflects your love for God.\n\n· Unforgiveness reflects your being forgiven.\nWhen your “One Another” is ____________ choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!\na. Start by looking at ____________.\n\nMatthew 18:21, 22 NIV\n\nThen Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.\n\nRomans 12:3 NIV\n\nFor by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment,\nb. Focus on what was done ____________ you, not ____________ you.\n\nMatthew 18:32, 33 NIV\n\n“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’\nc. Go to ridiculous ____________ with your forgiveness.\n\nMatthew 18:22 NIV\n\nJesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.\nd. Choose ____________ over judgement\n\nMatthew 18:33 NIV\n\nShouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’\n\nJames 2:12, 13 NIV\n\nSpeak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.\n\nMercy\nWhen God chooses to not give you what you deserve.\ne. Live with an “as God has forgiven you” heart or\n\nMatthew 18:33-35 NIV\n\nShouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. 35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”\n\nMatthew 6:14 NIV\n\nFor if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.\n\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party\n\n\nQuick Review\n\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\n\nWhat stood out to you in the message?\n\n\nOne Anothering is the heart of your Father, be forgiving.\n\n\nDid you know that the phrase ONE ANOTHER appears over 100 times in the New Testament?\nDiscuss or think about how important one anothering it to God.\nHow do you think your love for God affects your love for others?\nHow do you think your love for others affects your love for God?\nWhen you don’t love someone, don’t forgive them, what do you think that says about your being forgiven?\nOne Anothering well affects your heart, be forgiving.\nHow do you see unforgiveness affecting your life?\nIf God were to give you forgiveness like you forgive others, what would that be like for you?\nThink through and discuss why you are holding unforgiveness toward a person or persons.\nPastor Paul talked about drinking poison in hopes that it will hurt the other person, think about this statement and discuss it. How might you be doing that in your life?\n\n\nWhen your “One Another” is broke choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!\n\n\nStart with you: What does God desire from you?\nAre you willing to consistently ask God for help so that you are forgiving? Pause now and do that.\nWhat has been done for you: Rehearse the extent that you have been forgiven. Are you like more the unforgiving servant or Jesus?\nGod calls us to ridiculous extremes in our forgiveness. How does that make us more like Him?\nChoose mercy: Are you willing to choose mercy? Why or Why Not?\nAs God has forgiven you: If God forgives like you do, what will that be like for you?\n","content_html":"Matthew 18:15-20 NIV
\n\n“If your brother or sister sins (against you), go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
\n18 “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
\n19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Matthew 18:21-35 NIV
\n\nThen Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
\n22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
\n23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
\n26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
\n28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.
\n29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’
\n30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.
\n32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
\n35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
Matthew 18:15-20 NIV
\n\n“If your brother or sister sins (against you), go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.
\n\nMatthew 5:23, 24 NIV
\n\n“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
\n\nJohn 17:20-22 NIV
\n\n“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—
\n\nEphesians 4:3 NIV
\n\nMake every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
\n\n1 Corinthians 11:17, 18 NIV
\n\nIn the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it.
\n\nMatthew 5:43-48 NIV
\n\n“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
\n\nForgiveness:
\n\nI will live with the consequences of your sin and not seek vengeance or retribution, but rather your blessing.
\nOne Anothering well affects ____________ ____________, be forgiving.
Matthew 18:21, 22 NIV
\n\nThen Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
\n\nColossians 3:13 NIV
\n\nBear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
\n\nMatthew 6:12 NIV
\n\nAnd forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
\n\nGalatians 5:1 NIV
\n\nIt is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
\n\n· Forgiveness doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter
\n\n· Forgiveness doesn’t mean there has to be trust
\n\n· Forgiveness doesn’t mean you forget.
\n\n· It does affect your relationship with God too
\n\n· The goal to God is always to heal your broken one another.
\n\n· Forgiveness reflects your love for God.
\n\n· Unforgiveness reflects your being forgiven.
\nWhen your “One Another” is ____________ choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!
\na. Start by looking at ____________.
Matthew 18:21, 22 NIV
\n\nThen Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
\n\nRomans 12:3 NIV
\n\nFor by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment,
\nb. Focus on what was done ____________ you, not ____________ you.
Matthew 18:32, 33 NIV
\n\n“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’
\nc. Go to ridiculous ____________ with your forgiveness.
Matthew 18:22 NIV
\n\nJesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
\nd. Choose ____________ over judgement
Matthew 18:33 NIV
\n\nShouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’
\n\nJames 2:12, 13 NIV
\n\nSpeak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
\n\nMercy
\nWhen God chooses to not give you what you deserve.
\ne. Live with an “as God has forgiven you” heart or
Matthew 18:33-35 NIV
\n\nShouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. 35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
\n\nMatthew 6:14 NIV
\n\nFor if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
\n\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party
\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nOne Anothering is the heart of your Father, be forgiving.
\n\nDid you know that the phrase ONE ANOTHER appears over 100 times in the New Testament?
Discuss or think about how important one anothering it to God.
How do you think your love for God affects your love for others?
How do you think your love for others affects your love for God?
When you don’t love someone, don’t forgive them, what do you think that says about your being forgiven?
One Anothering well affects your heart, be forgiving.
How do you see unforgiveness affecting your life?
If God were to give you forgiveness like you forgive others, what would that be like for you?
Think through and discuss why you are holding unforgiveness toward a person or persons.
Pastor Paul talked about drinking poison in hopes that it will hurt the other person, think about this statement and discuss it. How might you be doing that in your life?
When your “One Another” is broke choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!
\n\nStart with you: What does God desire from you?
Are you willing to consistently ask God for help so that you are forgiving? Pause now and do that.
What has been done for you: Rehearse the extent that you have been forgiven. Are you like more the unforgiving servant or Jesus?
God calls us to ridiculous extremes in our forgiveness. How does that make us more like Him?
Choose mercy: Are you willing to choose mercy? Why or Why Not?
As God has forgiven you: If God forgives like you do, what will that be like for you?
You know you have drifted when your doing for Jesus is more important than your devotion to Jesus.
\n\nRevelation 2:1-7 NIV
\n\n“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:
\nThese are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
\n4 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. 6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
\n7 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
Revelation 1-3 & 6 NIV
\n\n“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:
\nThese are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
\n6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
Revelation 2:4 NIV
\n\nYet I hold this against you. . .
\n“The cause of Christ, as important as it is, is not more important than your love for Christ.”
Revelation 2:4 NIV
\n|Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.
Mark 12:28-31 NIV
\nOne of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
\n29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV
\nHear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NIV
\nIf I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is . . . 8 Love never fails.
\n“You know you have drifted when your doing for Jesus is more important than your devotion to Jesus.”
Revelation 2:4-5 NIV
\nYet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
Was there a time when you loved Christ more than you love him now?
\n\nIf you do not have a relationship with Jesus and would like to speak to someone about that please text: madenew to 474747
\n\n“Lord God, I need to confess to you a huge sin in my life.
\nMy love for you has grown weak, casual, and cold.
\nI have been so busy and doing that I have drifted in my devotion to you.
\nPlease forgive me. Help me turn back to a first love devotion to you.
\nAmen.”
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party
\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nGood things can rob you of the best thing.
\n\nWhat good things compete with or threaten the best thing (Jesus Christ) in your life?
How or why do you think they compete or threaten your devotion to Jesus Christ?
We often have inner longings or thirsts that drive us in our “doing.” What thirsts are you seeking to satisfy in your work for Christ that are not being satisfied in your relationship with Jesus Christ? How can you address that?
First comes love.
\n\nDo you think Jesus would say that you have forsaken your first love?
In what ways do you think stepping away from first love for Jesus is affecting you?
How to return to first love.
\n\nRemember: What do you remember of your early devotion to Jesus Christ?
If you don’t have a relationship with Jesus Christ, are you willing to speak to someone about your potential relationship with Him? If so, Text MadeNew to 474747
Repent: Are you willing to confess the loss of first love for Jesus as sin?
If you are in a great “love” spot with Jesus Christ, take a moment and thank Him.
If so, take a moment and do that. If not, ask yourself why you are not.
Return: As you think of your spiritual life and your love for Jesus Christ, what do you think God would say, “these are the first things you should return to doing?”
Bonus Material:
\nCrazy Love by Francis Chan
\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"You know you have drifted when your doing for Jesus is more important than your devotion to Jesus.","date_published":"2021-09-19T11:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/238c4ef4-5772-46dd-be43-38d55af7edef.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25830818,"duration_in_seconds":2152}]},{"id":"1bb62af3-8c59-4b1d-9f5f-02ecb62d17cc","title":"Episode 72: The Prodigal Sons","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/72","content_text":"","content_html":"","summary":"","date_published":"2021-09-05T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/1bb62af3-8c59-4b1d-9f5f-02ecb62d17cc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":19218181,"duration_in_seconds":1601}]},{"id":"8ab93be2-46dc-470c-a014-f67177bdc1bc","title":"Episode 71: Wisdom Calls Us to “If Your Enemy . . . “","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/71","content_text":"Proverbs 25:21, 22 NIV\n\nIf your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. 22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.\n\nProverbs 25:22 NIV\nIf your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink \n\nProverbs 24:17, 18 NIV\nDo not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, 18 or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them. \n\nMatthew 5:43-45 NIV\n“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. \n\nRomans 12:14-21 NIV\n14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.\n\nProverbs 1:7 NIV\nThe fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.\n\nRomans 12:19 NIV\nDo not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.\n\nJohn 15:5 NIV\n“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. \n\nEphesians 5:18 NIV\n. . . be filled with the Spirit, \n\nRomans 8:26-39 NIV\nIn the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness . . . \n\nGalatians 5:22-26 NIV\nBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.\n\nProverbs 25:22 NIV\nIn doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.\n\nRomans 12:11 NIV\nNever be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.\n\nRomans 12:20, 21 NIV\nOn the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.\n\nJohn 16:33 NIV\n“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”\n\nMatthew 5:10-14 NIV\nBlessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 13 “You are the salt of the earth. . 14 “You are the light of the world. . .\n\n2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV\nTherefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.\n\n** Philippians 2:10, 11 NIV**\n. . . that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.\n\nRevelation 20:11-21:4 NIV\nThen I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”\n\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER\n\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party\nAsk yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\nWhat stood out to you in the message?\n\n\nA Wise call to a Radical Response\n\n\nProverbs 25:22 begins with “if your enemy…” Enemies may come from a variety of types of people: Political, Relational, Family, Theological, Religious, Racial, etc. Who do you think are your enemies?\nEven though they may not be “actual” enemies, of those who oppose you or the things that you value, who do you think of as enemies?\nAre you responding to them in your actions, thinking, and heart in a way that honors God?\nDo you pray for them? Yes No Make a list now and pray.\n\n\nA Wise Call to a Radical Reliance\n\n\nHow is your engagement with Scripture informing your responses to the various situations in your life that may cause discord or tension?\nBe filled with the Spirit… the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses… Keep in step with the Spirit… We are all truly dependent on the Holy Spirit, what can you do to actively increase your awareness of the Spirit and your dependance on Him?\n\n\nA Wise Call to a Radical Hope\n\n\nThe hope we have is that God will transform people’s lives. How have you seen “life-change” around you and how can that knowledge help you have hope for others?\nEven if there is never life-change God promises that He will judge and make all things new. How can this knowledge give you strength to have a godly response to your enemies?\n\n\nBonus Content:\n\n\nHere are a few resources to help you see this type of living in action.\n\n\nBooks:\n\nIn the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham\nFor American missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham, what started out as a relaxing, once-in-a-lifetime anniversary getaway at an exotic island resort turned into one of the most horrific nightmares imaginable. Kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf, a terrorist group with ties to Osama bin Laden, the Burnhams were snatched away from friends and family and thrust into a life on the run in the Philippine jungle \n\nThrough Gates of Splendor by Elizabeth Elliot\nBased on the story of 5 missionaries martyred by the Auca Indians in 1956.\nFive missionaries went into the land of the savage Aucas. Their offer of friendship was rejected, and the Aucas killed the missionaries. Elisabeth Elliot, wife of one of the martyrs, her daughter and Rachel Saint would not give up and eventually lived among and brought the Gospel to the Aucas. \n\nTo End All Wars by Ernest Gordon\n(WWII) The story of Ernest Gordon’s life in the Death House–in a prison camp by the River Kwai. ’When Ernest Gordon was twenty-four he was captured by the Japanese and forced, with other British prisoners, to build the notorious ‘Railroad of Death’, where nearly 16,000 Prisoners of War gave their life. \n\nMovies\nThrough Gates of Splendor - not rated \n\nTo End All Wars – Rated R","content_html":"Proverbs 25:21, 22 NIV
\n\nIf your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. 22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.
\n\nProverbs 25:22 NIV
\nIf your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink
Proverbs 24:17, 18 NIV
\nDo not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, 18 or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them.
Matthew 5:43-45 NIV
\n“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven.
Romans 12:14-21 NIV
\n14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Proverbs 1:7 NIV
\nThe fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Romans 12:19 NIV
\nDo not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
John 15:5 NIV
\n“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
Ephesians 5:18 NIV
\n. . . be filled with the Spirit,
Romans 8:26-39 NIV
\nIn the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness . . .
Galatians 5:22-26 NIV
\nBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
Proverbs 25:22 NIV
\nIn doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.
Romans 12:11 NIV
\nNever be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:20, 21 NIV
\nOn the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
John 16:33 NIV
\n“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Matthew 5:10-14 NIV
\nBlessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 13 “You are the salt of the earth. . 14 “You are the light of the world. . .
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV
\nTherefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
** Philippians 2:10, 11 NIV**
\n. . . that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Revelation 20:11-21:4 NIV
\nThen I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party
Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
What stood out to you in the message?
A Wise call to a Radical Response
\n\nProverbs 25:22 begins with “if your enemy…” Enemies may come from a variety of types of people: Political, Relational, Family, Theological, Religious, Racial, etc. Who do you think are your enemies?
Even though they may not be “actual” enemies, of those who oppose you or the things that you value, who do you think of as enemies?
Are you responding to them in your actions, thinking, and heart in a way that honors God?
Do you pray for them? Yes No Make a list now and pray.
A Wise Call to a Radical Reliance
\n\nHow is your engagement with Scripture informing your responses to the various situations in your life that may cause discord or tension?
Be filled with the Spirit… the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses… Keep in step with the Spirit… We are all truly dependent on the Holy Spirit, what can you do to actively increase your awareness of the Spirit and your dependance on Him?
A Wise Call to a Radical Hope
\n\nThe hope we have is that God will transform people’s lives. How have you seen “life-change” around you and how can that knowledge help you have hope for others?
Even if there is never life-change God promises that He will judge and make all things new. How can this knowledge give you strength to have a godly response to your enemies?
Bonus Content:
\n\nBooks:
\n\nIn the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham
\nFor American missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham, what started out as a relaxing, once-in-a-lifetime anniversary getaway at an exotic island resort turned into one of the most horrific nightmares imaginable. Kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf, a terrorist group with ties to Osama bin Laden, the Burnhams were snatched away from friends and family and thrust into a life on the run in the Philippine jungle
Through Gates of Splendor by Elizabeth Elliot
\nBased on the story of 5 missionaries martyred by the Auca Indians in 1956.
\nFive missionaries went into the land of the savage Aucas. Their offer of friendship was rejected, and the Aucas killed the missionaries. Elisabeth Elliot, wife of one of the martyrs, her daughter and Rachel Saint would not give up and eventually lived among and brought the Gospel to the Aucas.
To End All Wars by Ernest Gordon
\n(WWII) The story of Ernest Gordon’s life in the Death House–in a prison camp by the River Kwai. ’When Ernest Gordon was twenty-four he was captured by the Japanese and forced, with other British prisoners, to build the notorious ‘Railroad of Death’, where nearly 16,000 Prisoners of War gave their life.
Movies
\nThrough Gates of Splendor - not rated
To End All Wars – Rated R
","summary":"","date_published":"2021-08-29T18:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/8ab93be2-46dc-470c-a014-f67177bdc1bc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25234285,"duration_in_seconds":2102}]},{"id":"185964d6-478c-4b58-9e7d-16e6ba77ba9c","title":"Episode 70: Seven Principles of Wise Parenting","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/70","content_text":"** Genesis 2:24 **\n “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” \n\nProverbs 22:6 \n“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” \n\nThe Church is to Invest in Future Generations (Col 3:20, Eph 6:1, Deut. 31:9-13, Josh. 8:34-35).\n\nWISE PARENTS TRUST GOD’S WORD AND LEAD LIKE THE GOOD SHEPHERD! \n\n\n Wise Parents Provide (Proverbs 27:23-27, Psalm 23:2) \n\n\nProverbs 27:23-27\n “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; 24 for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. 25When the hay is removed, and new growth appears and the grass from the hills is gathered in, 26the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field. 27You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed you and your family and to nourish your servant girls.”\n\nPsalm 23:2\n “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.” \n\n\n Wise Parents Restore (Proverbs 11:8, Psalm 23:3a)\n\n\nProverbs 11:8\n “The righteous man is rescued from trouble…”\n\nPsalm 23:2\n “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”\n\n\n Wise Parents Lead (Proverbs 4:11, Psalm 23:3) \n\n\nProverbs 4:11\n “I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.”\n\nPsalm 23:3b\n “He guides me in paths of righteousness.” \n\n\n Wise Parents Remain Present (Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4b)\n\n\nProverbs 2:8\n “For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.” \n\nPsalm 23:4b\n “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me.” \n\n\n Wise Parents Defend and Protect (Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4c) \n\n\nProverbs 2:8\n “For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”\n\nPsalm 23:4\n “Your rod and staff they comfort me.”\n\n\n Wise Parents Comfort (Proverbs 10:29, Psalm 23:4c, 5b)\n\n\nProverbs 10:29\n “The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous...”\n\nPsalm 23:5\n “You anoint my head with oil…”\n\n\n Wise Parents Prepare (Proverbs 27:23-27, Psalm 23:5a) \n\n\nPsalm 23:5a\n “You prepare a table before me…”","content_html":"** Genesis 2:24 **
\n “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”
Proverbs 22:6
\n“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”
The Church is to Invest in Future Generations (Col 3:20, Eph 6:1, Deut. 31:9-13, Josh. 8:34-35).
\n\nWISE PARENTS TRUST GOD’S WORD AND LEAD LIKE THE GOOD SHEPHERD!
\n\nProverbs 27:23-27
\n “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; 24 for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. 25When the hay is removed, and new growth appears and the grass from the hills is gathered in, 26the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field. 27You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed you and your family and to nourish your servant girls.”
Psalm 23:2
\n “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”
Proverbs 11:8
\n “The righteous man is rescued from trouble…”
Psalm 23:2
\n “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”
Proverbs 4:11
\n “I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.”
Psalm 23:3b
\n “He guides me in paths of righteousness.”
Proverbs 2:8
\n “For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”
Psalm 23:4b
\n “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me.”
Proverbs 2:8
\n “For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”
Psalm 23:4
\n “Your rod and staff they comfort me.”
Proverbs 10:29
\n “The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous...”
Psalm 23:5
\n “You anoint my head with oil…”
Psalm 23:5a
\n “You prepare a table before me…”
Proverbs 3:1-10 NIV
\n\nMy son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. 8 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; 10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
\nFinancial Principle #1
\nClarify Who You Are and the Value of Things
Proverbs 3:5 NIV
\n\nTrust in the Lord with all your heart
\n\nProverbs 3:9. 10 NIV
\n\nHonor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; 10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
\n\nProverbs 22:1-2 NIV
\n\nA good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. 2 Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.
\n\nProverbs 9:10 NIV
\n\nThe fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
\n\nProverbs 11:4 NIV
\n\nWealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
\n\nDeuteronomy 14:22, 23 NIV
\n\nBe sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.23 Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.
\n\nMalachi 3:6-12 NIV
\n\n“I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. 7 Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ 8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the store house, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. 12 “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.
\n\nPsalm 24:1 NIV
\n\nThe earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;
\n\nMatthew 6:24 NIV
\n\n“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
\n\nA Tool to Help: The Tithe Challenge https://www.gfhope.org/giving
\n\nMichael Jr. – comedy clip on giving from LifeChurch.com
\n\nBit starts approx. 17:46 (the whole message is good and funny)
\n\n9 Reasons Why We Give a Tithe and More… Pastor Paul and Bonnie Knight
\n\nFinancial Principle #2
\nSet a Step by Step, Bit by Bit Financial Pace.
Proverbs 13:11 ESV
\nWealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.
Proverbs 10:4 NIV
\nLazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.
Proverbs 12:11 NIV
\nThose who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.
Proverbs 21:5, 6 NIV
\nThe plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. 6 A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.
Proverbs 23:4 NIV
\nDo not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.
Luke 16:10-13 NIV
\n“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? 12 And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own? 13 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Discipline of a plan:
\n\n10 / 10 / 80
\n\nA Tool to Help: Financial Peace University – Fall at HOPE Church
\n\nBook: Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey
\n\nRamsey’s Baby Steps – See bonus content below or follow link:
\n\nFinancial Principle #3
\nThere is Power in “Not Yet and No.”
Proverbs 20:21 NIV
\nThe wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.
Proverbs 28:25 NIV
\nThe greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper.
Proverbs 22:7 NIV
\nThe rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender.
Psalm 37:21 NIV
\nThe wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously;
Financial Principle #4
\nExperience the Joy of Being Gloriously Generous
Proverbs 11: 24, 25
\nOne person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. 25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Proverbs 13:22 NIV
\nA good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.
Proverbs 19:17 NIV
\nWhoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.
Proverbs 21:13 NIV
\nWhoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NIV
\nRemember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party
\n\nQuick Review\n\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\nWhat stood out to you in the message?\nFinancial Principle #1 -- Clarify Who You Are and the Value of Things
\n\nDo you think of yourself under the Lordship of Jesus Christ?\n\nDo you see your possessions and money as belonging to God?\n\nHow does your view of who you are and the value of things affect your daily life?\nFinancial Principle #2 -- Set a Step by Step, Bit by Bit Financial Pace.
\n\nDo you have a financial plan for the management of money?\n\nDoes your plan fit with worldly wisdom or Godly wisdom?\n\nAre there areas where you struggle regarding Godly financial wisdom?\n\nAre there areas where you experience joy and victory in managing finances?\nFinancial Principle #3 -- There is Power in “Not Yet and No.”
\n\nHow do you personally handle delayed gratification?\n\nWhere have you been victorious in waiting and been blessed?\nFinancial Principle #4 -- Experience the Joy of Being Gloriously Generous
\n\n1 Corinthians 9:7 states that God loves a cheerful giver. Do you consider yourself cheerful in your giving?\n\nIf you are not a cheerful giver, what would help you get to that point?\n\nAre you generous?\nBonus Content:
\n9 Reasons Why We Give a Tithe and More…
\nPastor Paul and Bonnie
Baby Step 1
\nSave $1,000 for your starter emergency fund.
Baby Step 2
\nPay off all debt (except the house) using the debt snowball.
Baby Step 3
\nSave 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund.
Baby Step 4
\nInvest 15% of your household income in retirement.
Baby Step 5
\nSave for your children’s college fund.
Baby Step 6
\nPay off your home early.
Baby Step 7
\nBuild wealth and give.
Proverbs 3:5, 6 NIV
\n\n5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
\nA Life Question: Are you on a path that is leading to God’s best for you?
Proverbs 3:1-6 NIV
\n\nMy son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.
\n\nProverbs 3:6b NIV
\n\n… and he will make your paths straight.
\n\nMatthew 7:13, 14 NIV
\n\n“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
\n\nGenesis 12:1a & 2 NIV
\n\nThe Lord had said to Abram, . . . 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
\nWisdom Lesson:
\nWisdom is knowing the best life possible is the life lived on the path designed by God.
\nThree Practices for the Journey to a Great Life
\nPractice #1
\nDevelop a Deep ________________________ in the Lord.
Proverbs 3:5 NIV
\n\nTrust in the Lord with all your heart
\n\nProverbs 3:1 NIV
\n\nMy son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart
\n\nProverbs 3:3 NIV
\n\nLet love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
\n\nGenesis 12:1-5 NIV
\n\nThe Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 4 So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran. 5 He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out . . .
\nWisdom Lesson:
\nWisdom is knowing that where you want to be may require you to move from where you are! Trust God on the journey.
\nPractice #2
\nDetermine to ________________________ in a Way ____________ to God’s Way.
Proverbs 3:5b NIV
\n\nand lean not on your own understanding. . .
\n\nProverbs 14:12 NIV & Proverbs 16:25 NIV
\n\nThere is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.
\n\nEphesians 6:10-14 NIV
\n\nFinally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then. .
\n\nGenesis 16:1-3 NIV
\n\nNow Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian slave named Hagar; 2 so she said to Abram, “The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my slave; perhaps I can build a family through her.” Abram agreed to what Sarai said. 3 So after Abram had been living in Canaan ten years, Sarai his wife took her Egyptian slave Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife. 4 He slept with Hagar, and she conceived.
\nWisdom Lesson:
\nWhen your way and God’s way are contrary its always wiser to take God’s way.
\nPractice #3
\nAcknowledge that _________is ______Over ______, _________.
Proverbs 3:6a NASB
\n\nIn all your ways acknowledge Him. . .
\n\nProverbs 3:6a NIV
\n\n. . . in all your ways submit to him
\n\nLuke 22:42 NIV
\n\n“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
\n\nGenesis 22:1, 2 NIV
\n\nSome time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” 2 Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.”
\nWisdom Lesson:
\nAcknowledging God is always best even when his best leads to sacrifice and submission.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party
\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nAre you on a path that is leading to God’s best for you?
\n\nIn your everyday life, are you living on the path that God has designed for you?
Are there specific areas of your life that you know you have taken a detour off God’s path?
a. What are those areas?
\n\nPractice #1 -- Develop a Deep Heart Trust in the Lord.
\n\nIn what areas of your life do you have difficulty trusting God?
How do you think you can develop that practice of Heart Trust?
Are there things you are doing that diminish your trust in God?
Practice #2 -- Determine to Not Even Lean in a Way Contrary to God’s Way
\n\nWhere are you most apt to go your way over God’s way?
Choosing your way over God’s way is evidence of a lack of trust in God. In the ways mentioned in question 8, why do you think you do not trust God?
What can you do to learn to “stand firm” instead of “leaning on your own understanding?”
Practice #3 -- Acknowledge that God is God Over Everything, Always
\n\nDo you agree with the idea that God should be God over everything, always?
In the areas where you tend to be your own god, your areas of disobedience, will you prayerfully place them and you on “an altar” declaring your willingness to acknowledge, submit and obey? Take a moment and, if possible, kneel or lay prostrate before Him and make that declaration. Submit your questions regarding this message or series to hope@ghope.org
We would like to invite you to receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
\n\nTo let us know you have made this decision, to receive more information or for guidance in this decision please text: MADENEW to 474747
\n\n\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"What does a life look like entirely focused and centered on Christ? Pastor Paul takes us through the book of Proverbs and trusting God in all things.","date_published":"2021-08-08T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/1d6dacca-f524-4e0b-88b3-8fde14a9d377.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":28514429,"duration_in_seconds":2376}]},{"id":"ed7ac16b-1667-464d-acb9-251251770431","title":"Episode 67: When Nobody's Looking","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/67","content_text":"Personal integrity should be a staple of a walk with God. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us through a discussion on integrity. \n\n“So, be careful what you plant now; it will determine what you will reap later.” \n\n** Proverbs 21:3 NIV**\n\n3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.\n\n\nIntegrity is ____________ in our private life (Daniel 6:1-3)\n\n\n** Daniel 6:3**\n\n3 Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers. Because of Daniel’s great ability, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire. \n\n** Proverbs 11:3 NIV**\n\n3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. \n\n\nIntegrity is ____________ in our personal life (Daniel 6:4-5)\nIntegrity is ____________ in our professional life (Daniel 6:4-10)\n\n\n** Proverbs 4:24-27 NIV**\n\n24 Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. 26 Give careful thought to the[a] paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. 27 Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.\n\n** Proverbs 10:9 NIV**\n\n9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.\n\n** Proverbs 28:6 (English Standard Version)**\n\n6 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways. \n\n\nIntegrity is ____________ in our public life (Daniel 6:11-28)\n\n\nDaniel was not in the lions’ den because he had done something wrong. He was there because he had done something right!\nQuestions:\n\n\nWhen you hear the word “integrity,” what comes to mind. What exactly does it mean? \nWho do you know that you would describe as a person of integrity? What sets this person apart from other people of a similar age and position? \nDo you think integrity is valued today in society? Why or why not?\nWhat do you think is the biggest challenge that we face in keeping our integrity today?\nShare a time when it was very tempting to lie or be less than God would want you to be.\nWhat types of situations test your integrity the most? \n\n\n-- Get Connected --\n\n\nContact Us!\n\n\nWe'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.\n\n-- Stay Connected --\n\n\nFollow us on Twitter\nLike us on Facebook\n","content_html":"Personal integrity should be a staple of a walk with God. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us through a discussion on integrity.
\n\n“So, be careful what you plant now; it will determine what you will reap later.”
\n\n** Proverbs 21:3 NIV**
\n\n3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.
\n\n** Daniel 6:3**
\n\n3 Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers. Because of Daniel’s great ability, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire.
\n\n** Proverbs 11:3 NIV**
\n\n3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.
\n\n** Proverbs 4:24-27 NIV**
\n\n24 Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. 26 Give careful thought to the[a] paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. 27 Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.
\n\n** Proverbs 10:9 NIV**
\n\n9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.
\n\n** Proverbs 28:6 (English Standard Version)**
\n\n6 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.
\n\nDaniel was not in the lions’ den because he had done something wrong. He was there because he had done something right!
\nQuestions:
When you hear the word “integrity,” what comes to mind. What exactly does it mean?
Who do you know that you would describe as a person of integrity? What sets this person apart from other people of a similar age and position?
Do you think integrity is valued today in society? Why or why not?
What do you think is the biggest challenge that we face in keeping our integrity today?
Share a time when it was very tempting to lie or be less than God would want you to be.
What types of situations test your integrity the most?
\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"Personal integrity should be a staple of a walk with God. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us through a discussion on integrity. ","date_published":"2021-08-01T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/ed7ac16b-1667-464d-acb9-251251770431.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25825320,"duration_in_seconds":2152}]},{"id":"4efe5be5-0f8d-4e54-ac2a-3a0b7306dd21","title":"Episode 66: Last Call","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/66","content_text":"What happens when alcohol takes us further than we wanted to go and keeps us longer than we wanted to stay? Pastor Eric Kuehner guides us on a discussion of drunkenness. \n\n** Proverbs 20:1**\n\n\"Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise\". \n\n** Proverbs 23:29-35**\n\n29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? 30 Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. 31 Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! 32 In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. 33 Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. 34 You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. 35 “They hit me,” you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?”\n\n\n Drunkenness ____________.\nIs drunk you, the real you? \n\n\n** Matthew 12:34-35**\n\n34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. \n“Drunkenness may expose things deep inside of you, but it doesn’t have any good news for the darkness that emerges.”\n\n** Gen. 9:20-21**\n\n20 Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded[a] to plant a vineyard.21 When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent.\n“No one ever takes the first drink thinking that they want to become an alcoholic.” \n\nThe danger in overindulgence in alcohol can trap you in a lifestyle of dependance. \n\n\n I must have a drink to relax\n I must have a drink to socialize\n I must have a drink to deal with life\n I must have a drink to fit in\n I must have a drink because I’m happier when I drink\n\n\nThe more a person consumes the more a person loses.\n\n\n Loses the will to think straight \n Loses the will to act right \n Loses the ability to control themselves \n Loses the ability to function \n\n\n“We can’t be filled with the Spirit and filled with wine at the same time”\n\n\n ____________ and ____________\n\n\nEphesians 5:18-21 (NIV)\n\n18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.\nA. Old Life (Eph. 5:18a)\nB. New Life (Eph. 5:18b)\n\nQuestions:\n\n\n What stood out to you most about this Sunday’s sermon?\n How is wine (strong drink) a mocker?\n Is getting drunk a sin?\n Do you think that drunkenness is cause for separation from eternity in heaven? Luke 21:34, 1 Cor. 6:10, Gal. 5:21\n Ephesians 5:18 says, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit…” If you drink alcohol, what steps have you put into place to not get drunk? \n If you don’t drink alcohol, why not? \n Why do you think being drunk with alcohol and filled with the Spirit are used in the same sentence?\n What things of the old you have you cut off and what evidence of the Holy Spirit do you see with-in yourself?\n\n\n-- Get Connected --\n\n\nContact Us!\n\n\nWe'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.\n\n-- Stay Connected --\n\n\nFollow us on Twitter\nLike us on Facebook\n","content_html":"What happens when alcohol takes us further than we wanted to go and keeps us longer than we wanted to stay? Pastor Eric Kuehner guides us on a discussion of drunkenness.
\n\n** Proverbs 20:1**
\n\n"Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise".
\n\n** Proverbs 23:29-35**
\n\n29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? 30 Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. 31 Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! 32 In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. 33 Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. 34 You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. 35 “They hit me,” you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?”
\n\n** Matthew 12:34-35**
\n\n34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.
\n“Drunkenness may expose things deep inside of you, but it doesn’t have any good news for the darkness that emerges.”
** Gen. 9:20-21**
\n\n20 Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded[a] to plant a vineyard.21 When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent.
\n“No one ever takes the first drink thinking that they want to become an alcoholic.”
The danger in overindulgence in alcohol can trap you in a lifestyle of dependance.
\n\nThe more a person consumes the more a person loses.
\n\n“We can’t be filled with the Spirit and filled with wine at the same time”
\n\nEphesians 5:18-21 (NIV)
\n\n18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
\nA. Old Life (Eph. 5:18a)
\nB. New Life (Eph. 5:18b)
Questions:
\n\n\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"What happens when alcohol takes us further than we wanted to go and keeps us longer than we wanted to stay? Pastor Eric Kuehner guides us on a discussion of drunkenness. ","date_published":"2021-07-25T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/4efe5be5-0f8d-4e54-ac2a-3a0b7306dd21.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":31355860,"duration_in_seconds":2612}]},{"id":"a4d3c1eb-e6dc-4017-b5ad-57deef105b87","title":"Episode 65: The Weight of Worry","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/65","content_text":"Worry is not from God, and nothing productive comes from it. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us how to deal with worry. \n\n-- Selected Verses --\n\nMatthew 6:25-27\n\n(25) Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? (26) Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. (27) Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?\n Stop ____________ about life\nHe is our _________. \nWorry is _________. \n\nProverbs 12:25 (NLT)\n\n25 Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.\n\nProverbs 12:25 (NIV)\n\n25 Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.\nWorry means to _________.\nWorry _________ your mind.\nWorry Affects You in 4 Ways: \n1.) ____________\n2.) ____________\n3.) ____________\n4.) ____________\n\nWorrying isn’t good for you. \n\nWorry is Distracting, Consuming, and Paralyzing.\n\nWorry strangles the peace and purpose right out of our lives. \\\n\nPhilippians 4:6-7 (NIV)\n\n6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.\n\n1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)\n\nCast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.\nMethods for Handling Worry, Stress, Anxiety\nA. ____________\n\n(Heb. 12:28; Ps. 95; Ps. 100)\n\nB. ____________\n\n** (1 Thess. 5:17; Jer. 29:11-14; 1 John 5:14-15)**\n\nC. ____________ \n\n(Rom. 12:4-5; Prov.11:2; Ex.18:14-15)\n\nD. ____________\n\n(Heb. 10:24-25; 1 Cor. 12:25-27)\n\nE. ____________ \n\n(2 Tim. 3:16; Ps. 119:105; Matt. 4:4; Joshua 1:8)\n\n-- Get Connected --\n\n\nContact Us!\n\n\nWe'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.\n\n-- Stay Connected --\n\n\nFollow us on Twitter\nLike us on Facebook\n","content_html":"Worry is not from God, and nothing productive comes from it. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us how to deal with worry.
\n\n-- Selected Verses --
\n\nMatthew 6:25-27
\n\n(25) Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? (26) Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. (27) Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
\n Stop ____________ about life
\nHe is our _________.
\nWorry is _________.
Proverbs 12:25 (NLT)
\n\n25 Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.
\n\nProverbs 12:25 (NIV)
\n\n25 Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.
\nWorry means to _________.
\nWorry _________ your mind.
\nWorry Affects You in 4 Ways:
\n1.) ____________
\n2.) ____________
\n3.) ____________
\n4.) ____________
Worrying isn’t good for you.
\n\nWorry is Distracting, Consuming, and Paralyzing.
\n\nWorry strangles the peace and purpose right out of our lives. \\
\n\nPhilippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
\n\n6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
\n\n1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
\n\nCast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
\nMethods for Handling Worry, Stress, Anxiety
\nA. ____________
(Heb. 12:28; Ps. 95; Ps. 100)
\n\nB. ____________
\n\n** (1 Thess. 5:17; Jer. 29:11-14; 1 John 5:14-15)**
\n\nC. ____________
\n\n(Rom. 12:4-5; Prov.11:2; Ex.18:14-15)
\n\nD. ____________
\n\n(Heb. 10:24-25; 1 Cor. 12:25-27)
\n\nE. ____________
\n\n(2 Tim. 3:16; Ps. 119:105; Matt. 4:4; Joshua 1:8)
\n\n\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"Worry is not from God, and nothing productive comes from it. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us how to deal with worry. ","date_published":"2021-07-18T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/a4d3c1eb-e6dc-4017-b5ad-57deef105b87.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29642437,"duration_in_seconds":2470}]},{"id":"c16c326c-9f56-4f66-bf82-a9c08f47f14e","title":"Episode 64: How to Deal with a Smoldering Heart","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/64","content_text":"How do we deal with anger in a Godly biblical way. Pastor Paul continues with the Life Hacks series as we explore a smoldering heart.\n\n-- Selected Verses --\n\nProverbs 29:22 NIV\nAn angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.\n\nProverbs 15:1 NIV\nA gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.\n\nProverbs 15:18 NIV\nA hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.\n\nProverbs 19:11 NIV\nA person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.\n\nEphesians 4:26, 27 NIV\n“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,27 and do not give the devil a foothold.\n\n-- Serman Notes --\n\n1. The Smoldering Heart!\n\nProverbs 29:22 NIV\nAn angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.\n\nProverbs 15:18 NIV\nA hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.\n\nProverbs 22:24, 25 NIV\nDo not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.\nWhere does anger come from?\n\nA. Anger that starts from a holy discontent\n\nMark 3:3-6 NIV\nJesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.”\n4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. 5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man,\n“Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. 6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.\n\nB. Anger that starts appropriately but becomes ungodly.\n\nC. Anger that starts from an ungodly source\n\nUngodly anger is the outward evidence of an inward erosion.\n\n2. Be aware of Anger Danger!\n\nProverbs 14:17 NIV\nA quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.\n\nProverbs 25:28 NIV\nLike a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.\nNegative Responses to Anger\n\n\nA. Stuff It\nB. Stoke it\nC. Spew it\n\n\nUngodly anger\n\nEphesians 4:29-31 NIV\nDo not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.\nA person who lives with a continual ungodly anger is demonstrating their unwillingness to submit to God.\n\n3. Positively Dealing with your anger.\n\nProverbs 15:18 NIV\nA hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.\n\nProverbs 19:19 NIV\nA hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again.\n\nProverbs 29:11 NIV\nFools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.\n\nProverbs 16:32 NIV\nBetter a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.\n\nProverbs 19:11 NIV\nA person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.\nLet God use your anger to serve His purposes, in you and in the world.\nPut your anger out or put it to work.\nPositively Processing Your Anger\na. Take ownership of your anger.\n\nJob 19:4 & 2 Corinthians 5:9-10\nb. Go under the surface to the source.\n\nJames 4:1-4\nc. Learn to cross your heart and head.\n\nJames 1:19, 20\nd. Take your thoughts captive.\n\nRomans 12:1-2 & 1 Corinthians 10:3-6\n\nFOUR WISDOM DEVELOPING PRACTICES\n\n\nONCE A WEEK LIFE HACKS MESSAGE\nA DAILY PROVERB – Reading Schedule: June 20 ~ Proverbs 20; June 21 ~ Proverbs 21; June 22 ~ Proverbs 22; June 23 ~ Proverbs 23; June 24 ~ Proverbs 24; June 25 ~ Proverbs 25; June 26 ~ Proverbs 126\nA WEEKLY PROVERB -- Memorize & Mediate on the weekly (distributed at services or online).\nLIFE HACK GROUPS -- Go to gfhope.org for more information or email: pseverson@gfhope.org\n\n\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party\n\n\nQuick Review\n\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\n\nWhat stood out to you in the message?\nAs you examine your heart and your head, what causes anger in you?\nIs your anger godly or ungodly?\nHas your godly anger become ungodly in the way you express it?\nHow aware are you about the source of your anger? Why do you get angry?\nIs there an anger in you that God would want put out?\nIs there an anger in you that God would want put to work?\nWhat are your next steps to deal with the anger that is in you or that arises?\n\n\n-- Get Connected --\n\n\nContact Us!\n\n\nWe'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.\n\n-- Stay Connected --\n\n\nFollow us on Twitter\nLike us on Facebook\n","content_html":"How do we deal with anger in a Godly biblical way. Pastor Paul continues with the Life Hacks series as we explore a smoldering heart.
\n\n-- Selected Verses --
\n\nProverbs 29:22 NIV
\nAn angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.
Proverbs 15:1 NIV
\nA gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:18 NIV
\nA hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
Proverbs 19:11 NIV
\nA person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.
Ephesians 4:26, 27 NIV
\n“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,27 and do not give the devil a foothold.
-- Serman Notes --
\n\nProverbs 29:22 NIV
\nAn angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.
Proverbs 15:18 NIV
\nA hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
Proverbs 22:24, 25 NIV
\nDo not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.
\nWhere does anger come from?
A. Anger that starts from a holy discontent
\n\nMark 3:3-6 NIV
\nJesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.”
\n4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. 5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man,
\n“Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. 6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.
B. Anger that starts appropriately but becomes ungodly.
\n\nC. Anger that starts from an ungodly source
\n\nUngodly anger is the outward evidence of an inward erosion.
\n\nProverbs 14:17 NIV
\nA quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.
Proverbs 25:28 NIV
\nLike a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.
\nNegative Responses to Anger
Ungodly anger
\n\nEphesians 4:29-31 NIV
\nDo not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
\nA person who lives with a continual ungodly anger is demonstrating their unwillingness to submit to God.
Proverbs 15:18 NIV
\nA hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
Proverbs 19:19 NIV
\nA hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 29:11 NIV
\nFools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.
Proverbs 16:32 NIV
\nBetter a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.
Proverbs 19:11 NIV
\nA person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.
\nLet God use your anger to serve His purposes, in you and in the world.
\nPut your anger out or put it to work.
\nPositively Processing Your Anger
\na. Take ownership of your anger.
Job 19:4 & 2 Corinthians 5:9-10
\nb. Go under the surface to the source.
James 4:1-4
\nc. Learn to cross your heart and head.
James 1:19, 20
\nd. Take your thoughts captive.
Romans 12:1-2 & 1 Corinthians 10:3-6
\n\nONCE A WEEK LIFE HACKS MESSAGE
A DAILY PROVERB – Reading Schedule: June 20 ~ Proverbs 20; June 21 ~ Proverbs 21; June 22 ~ Proverbs 22; June 23 ~ Proverbs 23; June 24 ~ Proverbs 24; June 25 ~ Proverbs 25; June 26 ~ Proverbs 126
A WEEKLY PROVERB -- Memorize & Mediate on the weekly (distributed at services or online).
LIFE HACK GROUPS -- Go to gfhope.org for more information or email: pseverson@gfhope.org
For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party
\n\na. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
\n\nWhat stood out to you in the message?
As you examine your heart and your head, what causes anger in you?
Is your anger godly or ungodly?
Has your godly anger become ungodly in the way you express it?
How aware are you about the source of your anger? Why do you get angry?
Is there an anger in you that God would want put out?
Is there an anger in you that God would want put to work?
What are your next steps to deal with the anger that is in you or that arises?
\n\n\n\n
We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.
\n\n-- Stay Connected --
\n\n","summary":"How do we deal with anger in a Godly biblical way. Pastor Paul continues with the Life Hacks series as we explore a smoldering heart.","date_published":"2021-07-11T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/c16c326c-9f56-4f66-bf82-a9c08f47f14e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26690978,"duration_in_seconds":2224}]},{"id":"63d604a3-11fb-4665-9855-a9a2bc7d1e33","title":"Episode 56: You Are Made Amazing!","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/56","content_text":"\nYou are Made on ____________ for a ____________ !\n\n\nGenesis 1:26, 27 NIV\nThen God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. \n\nPsalm 139:13, 14 NIV\nFor you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.\n\nEphesians 2:8-10 NASB\nFor it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.\n\n\nHave a bold, crazy, risk-taking ____________ in ____________ .\n\n\nHebrews 11:6 NIV\nAnd without faith it is impossible to please God . . .\n\nRevelation 3:15, 16 NIV\nI know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.\n\nEphesians 3:14-21 NIV\nFor this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. \n\n\nLearn to ____________ things you love for things you love ____________ ____________ .\n\n\nRomans 12:1, 2 NIV\nTherefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.\n\nPhilippians 3:7-9 NIV\nBut whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. \n\nMatthew 22:37-40 NIV\nJesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” \n\n\nBe ____________ \n\n\nMatthew 16:17, 18 NIV\nJesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. \n\nMatthew 4:19 NIV\n“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party\n\nRemind each other of the 4 Points main points from the message.\n\nLook up all the passages mentioned under each of the points.\n\n\nYou are made on purpose for a purpose.\n\nWhat is the importance of knowing that you are made on purpose?\n\nThe primary purpose for each person is to bring glory to God. How are you seeking to live your purpose for God’s glory?\n\n\nHave a bold, crazy, risk-taking trust in God.\n\nWhere in your past have you exercise the kind of trust mentioned in the above statement?\n\nWhere in your life do you think God is wanting you to “really” trust Him?\n\n\nLearn to give up things you love for things you love even more.\n\nRead Matthew 22:37-40\n\nTake a moment and clarify what you love most.\n\nIs there something you love that is getting in the way of what you love even more?\n\n\nBe Church\n\nThe church is people not a place. In what ways are you Church?\n\nChurch is people not just an individual person, in what ways are you living as church with others?\n","content_html":"Genesis 1:26, 27 NIV
\nThen God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
Psalm 139:13, 14 NIV
\nFor you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Ephesians 2:8-10 NASB
\nFor it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
Hebrews 11:6 NIV
\nAnd without faith it is impossible to please God . . .
Revelation 3:15, 16 NIV
\nI know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
Ephesians 3:14-21 NIV
\nFor this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Romans 12:1, 2 NIV
\nTherefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Philippians 3:7-9 NIV
\nBut whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.
Matthew 22:37-40 NIV
\nJesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 16:17, 18 NIV
\nJesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
Matthew 4:19 NIV
\n“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party
\n\nRemind each other of the 4 Points main points from the message.\n\nLook up all the passages mentioned under each of the points.\nYou are made on purpose for a purpose.
\n\nWhat is the importance of knowing that you are made on purpose?\n\nThe primary purpose for each person is to bring glory to God. How are you seeking to live your purpose for God’s glory?\nHave a bold, crazy, risk-taking trust in God.
\n\nWhere in your past have you exercise the kind of trust mentioned in the above statement?\n\nWhere in your life do you think God is wanting you to “really” trust Him?\nLearn to give up things you love for things you love even more.
\n\nRead Matthew 22:37-40\n\nTake a moment and clarify what you love most.\n\nIs there something you love that is getting in the way of what you love even more?\nBe Church
\n\nThe church is people not a place. In what ways are you Church?\n\nChurch is people not just an individual person, in what ways are you living as church with others?\n“Moms are the Most Essential Workers of our DAY!”
\n\nExodus 2:1-3 NIV
\nNow a man of the tribe of Levi married a Levite woman, 2 and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months. 3 But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.
Hebrews 11:23 NIV
\nBy faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.
\nThe Story of an amazing woman, Jochebed, a mother.
\nWhat is it that Great ____________ of Faith Do?
Exodus 1:8-14 NIV
\nThen a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt. 9 “Look,” he said to his people, “the Israelites have become far too numerous for us. 10 Come, we must deal shrewdly with them or they will become even more numerous and, if war breaks out, will join our enemies, fight against us and leave the country.” 11 So they put slave masters over them to oppress them with forced labor, and they built Pithom and Rameses as store cities for Pharaoh. 12 But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread; so the Egyptians came to dread the Israelites 13 and worked them ruthlessly.14 They made their lives bitter with harsh labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in all their harsh labor the Egyptians worked them ruthlessly.
Hebrews 11:31 NIV
\nBy faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.
Acts 16:24-26 NIV
\nWhen he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.
\nGreat people of faith don’t live under the circumstances, but live a courageous anticipation of God’s blessing!
Exodus 1:15-22 NIV
\nThe king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, 16 “When you are helping the Hebrew women during childbirth on the delivery stool, if you see that the baby is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live.” 17 The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live. 18 Then the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, “Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?” 19 The midwives answered Pharaoh, “Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive.” 20 So God was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous. 21 And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own. 22 Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: “Every Hebrew boy that is born you must throw into the Nile, but let every girl live.”
Proverbs 1:7 NIV
\nThe fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Revelation 3:16 NIV
\nSo, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
Philippians 1:14 NIV
\nAnd because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Exodus 2:1-10 NIV
\nNow a man of the tribe of Levi married a Levite woman, 2 and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months. 3 But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.4 His sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him.5 Then Pharaoh’s daughter went down to the Nile to bathe, and her attendants were walking along the riverbank. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her female slave to get it. 6 She opened it and saw the baby. He was crying, and she felt sorry for him. “This is one of the Hebrew babies,” she said. 7 Then his sister asked Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?” 8 “Yes, go,” she answered. So the girl went and got the baby’s mother.9 Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this baby and nurse him for me, and I will pay you.” So the woman took the baby and nursed him. 10 When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaoh’s daughter and he became her son. She named him Moses, saying, “I drew him out of the water.”
Matthew 10:16 NIV
\n“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
\nThe place intended for destruction and death, becomes the place of deliverance.
Hebrews 11:24-28 NIV
\n24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible. 28 By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel.
Acts 7:20-22 NIV
\n“At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. 21 When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. 22 Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action.
Proverbs 22:6 ESV
\nTrain up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV
\n“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
\nPray for those under your care.
Pray for their salvation\n\nPray for their return to relationship to the Lord\n\nPray that you would not get stuck living “under the circumstances.”\n\nPray for your personal faith, that it would be white hot.\n\nPray for a creative courage in protecting your children.\n\nPray that your faith will influence them.\nDISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party
\n\nRead Exodus 1 & 2:1-10\n\nRemind each other of the 4 Points main points from the message.\n\nHow do you see the times mentioned in Exodus and our times similar?\n\nWhere do you currently feel that you are living under circumstances that God would want you to rise over?\n\nWhat do you do to nurture your relationship with God and a healthy fear of Him?\n\nHow can you prevent the cooling of your heart, so that you are not lukewarm?\n\nAs a parent, where could you or would you like to be more creatively courageous in protecting your children?\n\nThink through the most important things of faith you would like to transfer to your children. What are the main things you would like them to know or experience?\n\nIt seems that Moses had a period of time where he was not living the faith of his mother, if you have a child/ren that have wondered, what can you do?\n\n See Luke 15\n\nPray together through the items mentioned above.\nHOW TO INCREASE MY GO-YNESS
\n\nMark 16:8-20 NIV
\nTrembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. [The earliest manuscripts and some other ancient witnesses do not have verses 9–20.] 9 When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. 11 When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it. 12 Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. 13 These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either. 14 Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. 15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” 19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. 20 Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.
Matthew 28:16-20 NIV
\nThen the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Increasing Our “Go-yness”
\n\nGo-yness Is moving obediently into every place with the ________, ________ ___________ message of Jesus!
\n\nMark 16:8 NIV
\nTrembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.
Mark 16:14 NIV
\nLater Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
Mark 16:16 NIV
\n…but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
John 3:16-18 NIV
\nFor God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.
Mark 16:15, 16 NIV
\nHe said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Mark 16:12-14 NIV
\nAfterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. 13 These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either. 14 Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
Mark 1:14-17 NIV
\nAfter John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” 16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
Mark 12:29-31 NIV
\n“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
The word gospel means: ___________
\nWho is the good news about: ___________
With your ___________\n\nWith your ___________\nMark 16:17-20 NIV
\nAnd these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” 19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. 20 Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.
Matthew 28:19, 20 NIV
\nTherefore go . . . . And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Acts 1:8 NIV
\nBut you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
As a Christ follower,
\nI desire to trust Him for every encounter in my life;
\nthe good, the bad and the ugly.
Bringing My World to Christ
\nPick 3 people to pray for:
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and
\n\nTHINGS TO PONDER
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party
\n\nRead the passage/s\n\nReview each of the points of the message to remind yourself of what was spoken about.\n\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\n Together review each of the main points, talk through them, and remind each other of what was said.\nADMIT YOUR EMOTIONS
\n\nAll followers of Jesus are called to “Go into all the world…” When you think of that command what emotions do you experience?
\n\nDiscuss how you can submit your emotions to your obedience.
EXPRESS JESUS
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\n\n","summary":"","date_published":"2021-02-21T15:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b174ebaa-06e4-425a-a6de-63762a358c19/a84a14ff-ba84-47d1-ab21-c65c3414d9ea.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25060768,"duration_in_seconds":2088}]},{"id":"257557ef-92e8-4ddc-9d9e-846b863e73fb","title":"Episode 42: Generosity: The Widow's Mite","url":"https://podcast.gfhope.org/42","content_text":"GENEROSITY (THE WIDOW'S MITE)\n\nWhat does a kingdom financial perspective look like? God's kingdom requires different math and a different perspective. Pastor Paul Knight explores generosity, giving and the role it plays in our lives.\n\nMark 12 37-55\nNIV\n\nThe large crowd listened to him with delight. As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39 and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. 40 They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.” 41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”\n\nSpying with Jesus...\n\nMark 12:41\nNIV\n\nJesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury.\n\nOBSERVATION #1 = IT ALL BELONGS TO GOD\n\nMark 12:38-40\nThe Message\n\nHe continued teaching. “Watch out for the religion scholars. They love to walk around in academic gowns, preening in the radiance of public flattery, basking in prominent positions, sitting at the head table at every church function. And all the time they are exploiting the weak and helpless. The longer their prayers, the worse they get. But they’ll pay for it in the end.”\n\nPsalm 24:1\nThe earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,\n\nDeuteronomy 8:17-18\nNIV\n\nYou may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” 18 But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today. \n\n1 Chronicles 29:10-13\nNIV\n\nDavid praised the Lord in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, “Praise be to you, Lord, the God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. 11 Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. 12 Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. 13 Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 14 “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.\n\nLuke 16:10-12\nNIV\n\n“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?12 And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own?\n\nA KINGDOM PRINCIPLE....\n\nWHEN YOU GIVE, YOU GIVE WHAT IS ALREADY GOD'S.\n\nOBSERVATION #2\n\nSACRIFICIAL GENEROSITY MAKES GOOD SENSE!\n\nMark 12:41-42 & 44\nNIV\n\nMany rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”\n\nProverbs 11:24-26\nNLT\n\nGive freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. 25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. 26 People curse those who hoard their grain, but they bless the one who sells in time of need.\n\n2 Corinthians 9:6-12\nESV\n\nRemember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” 10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party\n\nQuick Review –\n\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\n Together review each of the main points, talk through them, and remind each other of what was said.\n\nIf you have experienced a time when your generosity was blessed by God, tell about it.\n\n\nMessage Discussion:\n\n\nObservation #1 -- It all belongs to God.\n\n\n· Why do you think people are so impressed by those with money?\n\n· Do you tend to consider people with money “higher” than those without?\n\n· In what ways and in what areas do you notice yourself flaunting for recognition?\n\n· If Jesus were to observe your giving patterns, what do you think He would say or teach about how and what you give?\n\n· Do you agree with the statement: It all belongs to God?\n\n· How is that demonstrated in your life?\n\n· Discuss the Kingdom Principle: When we give, we give what already belongs to God.\n\n\nObservation #2 -- Sacrificial Generosity Makes Good Sense!\n\n\n· Jesus said, the widow gave all. Why could this make sense?\n\n· Michael Jr., the comedian, said that “tithing is not generosity that’s just not stealing.” How do you respond to that? \n\n· To watch his whole message The Right Response with Michael Jr. follow this link: \n\n· Discuss the kingdom principle: You cannot out give God.\n\n· What are your thoughts about Tithing and God’s promises in Malachi 3.\n\nWould you be willing to respond to God’s invitation? http://gfhope.org/giving\n\nObservation #3: Your Impact Can Go Beyond Your Capacity.\n\n· Where have you observed or experienced impact beyond capacity?\n\n· Discuss this equation: Your Gift + Your Faithful Heart + God = Exponential Impact\n\n· Discuss this kingdom principle: Value is not measured by earthly status but by the heavenly Owner!\n\n· Discuss this kingdom principle: Faithfully do your part, then watch God create the impact.","content_html":"What does a kingdom financial perspective look like? God's kingdom requires different math and a different perspective. Pastor Paul Knight explores generosity, giving and the role it plays in our lives.
\n\nMark 12 37-55
\nNIV
The large crowd listened to him with delight. As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39 and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. 40 They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.” 41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
\n\nMark 12:41
\nNIV
Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury.
\n\nMark 12:38-40
\nThe Message
He continued teaching. “Watch out for the religion scholars. They love to walk around in academic gowns, preening in the radiance of public flattery, basking in prominent positions, sitting at the head table at every church function. And all the time they are exploiting the weak and helpless. The longer their prayers, the worse they get. But they’ll pay for it in the end.”
\n\nPsalm 24:1
\nThe earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,
Deuteronomy 8:17-18
\nNIV
You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” 18 But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.
\n\n1 Chronicles 29:10-13
\nNIV
David praised the Lord in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, “Praise be to you, Lord, the God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. 11 Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. 12 Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. 13 Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 14 “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.
\n\nLuke 16:10-12
\nNIV
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?12 And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own?
\n\nWHEN YOU GIVE, YOU GIVE WHAT IS ALREADY GOD'S.
\n\nSACRIFICIAL GENEROSITY MAKES GOOD SENSE!
\n\nMark 12:41-42 & 44
\nNIV
Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
\n\nProverbs 11:24-26
\nNLT
Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. 25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. 26 People curse those who hoard their grain, but they bless the one who sells in time of need.
\n\n2 Corinthians 9:6-12
\nESV
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” 10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.
\n\nFor your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party
\n\nQuick Review –\n\n Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?\n\n Together review each of the main points, talk through them, and remind each other of what was said.\n\nIf you have experienced a time when your generosity was blessed by God, tell about it.\nMessage Discussion:
\n\n· Why do you think people are so impressed by those with money?
\n\n· Do you tend to consider people with money “higher” than those without?
\n\n· In what ways and in what areas do you notice yourself flaunting for recognition?
\n\n· If Jesus were to observe your giving patterns, what do you think He would say or teach about how and what you give?
\n\n· Do you agree with the statement: It all belongs to God?
\n\n· How is that demonstrated in your life?
\n\n· Discuss the Kingdom Principle: When we give, we give what already belongs to God.
\n\n· Jesus said, the widow gave all. Why could this make sense?
\n\n· Michael Jr., the comedian, said that “tithing is not generosity that’s just not stealing.” How do you respond to that?
\n\n· To watch his whole message The Right Response with Michael Jr. follow this link:
\n\n· Discuss the kingdom principle: You cannot out give God.
\n\n· What are your thoughts about Tithing and God’s promises in Malachi 3.
\n\nWould you be willing to respond to God’s invitation? http://gfhope.org/giving
\n\nObservation #3: Your Impact Can Go Beyond Your Capacity.
\n\n· Where have you observed or experienced impact beyond capacity?
\n\n· Discuss this equation: Your Gift + Your Faithful Heart + God = Exponential Impact
\n\n· Discuss this kingdom principle: Value is not measured by earthly status but by the heavenly Owner!
\n\n· Discuss this kingdom principle: Faithfully do your part, then watch God create the impact.
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