This week Pastor Mason continues the series on deconstructing faith by asking, is God a jerk?

1) FOUNDATION (PERSPECTIVE)

Scriptures referenced: Psalm 73,

• Truth
• Humilty
• Perspective

2) WALLS (UNDERSTANDING)

• Result 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)

3) ROOF (PERMISSION TO DOUBT)

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?

1) WE ARE loved AND HAVE value

Scriptures referenced: Genesis ; 2:7; 5:1-2; Psalm 139:13-14; Psalm 8; Luke 12:6

Genesis 1:26-28 (NIV)

Then 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.

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.”

Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV)

For 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.

Psalm 8 (NIV)

Lord, 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?

You 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!

Luke 12:6 (NIV)

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.

2) WE ARE Proud AND rebellious

Scriptures referenced: Genesis 3:1-13; Psalm 10:4; Matthew 19:16-22,

Genesis 3:1-13 (VER)

Now 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.’”

“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.

Then 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?”

The 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.”

Psalm 10:4 (NIV)

In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.

Matthew 19:16-22 (NIV)

Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”

“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.”

“Which ones?” he inquired.

Jesus 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]”

“All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”

Jesus 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.”

When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

3) WE ARE OFFERED A LIFE OF sacrifice AND reward

Scriptures referenced: Matthew 7:13-14

Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV)

Enter 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.

Main Scripture Reference(s): Jude 20-23

Jude 20-23 (VER)

But 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.

Be 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.

1) BE Honest

Scriptures referenced: Jeremiah 17:9,

Jeremiah 17:9 (NIV)

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?

2) ** BE Diligent**

Scriptures referenced: Jude 20-21,

Jude 20-21 (NIV)

But 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.

Build

Acts 17:11-12 (NIV)

Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.

Pray

Ephesians 6:18-19 (NIV)

And 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,

Walk

3) BE Merciful

Scriptures referenced: Jude 22-23, Ephesians 6:12

Jude 22-23 (VER)

Be 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.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)

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.

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1. The Ugliness of Prideful People

Obadiah 1:3 NIV

The 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…

Obadiah 1:6 NIV

But how Esau will be ransacked,
his hidden treasures pillaged!

Obadiah 1:7 NIV

All your allies will force you to the border; your friends will deceive and overpower you;
those who eat your bread will set a trap for you, but you will not detect it.

Obadiah 1:8 NIV

“In that day,” declares the Lord,
“will I not destroy the wise men of Edom,
those of understanding in the mountains of Esau?

Obadiah 1:10-14 NIV

Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.
11 On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth
and 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.

1. The Ultimate Destruction of Pride-filled People.

Obadiah 1:3, 4 NIV

The 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.

2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV

For 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.

Matthew 12:36, 37 NIV

But 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.”

Revelation 20:12-15 NIV

Then 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.

1. The Unwavering Confidence in a Day that is coming!

Obadiah 1:15-17 NIV

“The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you;
your deeds will return upon your own head. 16 Just as you drank on my holy hill,
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

For 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.

1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV

Praise 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.

Philippians 3:19-21 NIV

Their 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.

Romans 8:37-39 NIV

No, 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.

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When you experience a crisis of faith what do you do? Pastor Patrick Severson takes us through a biblical view.

A FEW KEY MOMENTS AND PEOPLE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Creation
• Fall
• Flood
• Tower of Babel
• Abraham
• Covenant with Israel
• Promise Land
• Judges
• King Saul
• King David
• King Solomon
• Divided Kingdom
• Exile
• Prophets
• Return from Exile

Three reminders for us when we experience a crisis of faith:

1. IT’S NORMAL – Accept that a crisis of faith is a common experience.

2. IT’S TRICKY – Be honest with yourself.

3. IT’S PIVOTAL – We choose the path forward.

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The Secret of Contentment

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Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 1:1, Genesis 2:2, Exodus 3:3

Philippians 4:10-20: (NIV)

I 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.

Yet 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.

1) Learn what contentment “is” and “is not.”

Scriptures referenced: Philippians 4:10-13,

Philippians 4:10-13 (NIV)

I 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.

1 Timothy 6:6-12 (NIV)

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

2) Learn the contentment producing power of partnerships in Christ.

Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:3-7,

** Philippians 1:3-7** (VER)

I 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

Philippians 4:14 (NIV)

Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.

Philippians 4:18-20 (NIV)

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.

To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

3) Learn the contentment producing power of living the purposes of Christ.

Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:21, 22, Philippians 1:12-14, Philippians 4:22

Philippians 1:12-14 (NIV)

Now 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.

Philippians 1:21, 22 (NIV)

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.

Philippians 4:22 (NIV)

All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.

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Pastor Paul Knight walks us through how to get our joy back.

Main Scripture Reference(s): Philippians 4:1

Philippians 4:1 (NIV)

Therefore, 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.

1) Resolve to Rejoice

Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Psalm 61:1 (NIV)

Shout for joy to God, all the earth!

Psalm 71:23 (NIV)

My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I whom you have delivered.

Psalm 95:1; Psalm 100:1, 2; Nehemiah 8:10; Luke 2:10; James 1:2, 3

2) Restore Your Relationships

Philippians 4:1-3 (NIV)

Therefore, 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.

Philippians 4:5 (NIV)

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

John 15:10-12 (NIV)

If 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.

Matthew 5:23, 24 (NIV)

“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.

Romans 12:18 (NIV) (see 14-21)

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

3) Raise Your Requests to God

Philippians 4:6, 7 (NIV)

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.

Romans 15:13 (NIV)

May 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.

Psalm 5:1-3 (NIV)

Listen 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.

Romans 8:26-28 (NIV)

In 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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This week Pastor Mason invites to consider what a new work inside you means.

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1) A NEW WORK – DEFINITION

Scriptures referenced: Phil 1:6,

Philippians 1:6 (NIV)

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.

• 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

2) A New Work – Description

• 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

3) A New Work – Results

• 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.

Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 1:1, Genesis 2:2, Exodus 3:3

BOOK 1:1 (VER)

Quoted passage goes here...

1) GOD STILL CHANGES LIVES

Scriptures referenced: Acts 16:6-40,

2) GOD STILL USES ANYONE

Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:1-2, Acts 16:6-40,

3) GOD STILL FINISHES WHAT HE STARTS

Scriptures 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?

Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 1:1, Genesis 2:2, Exodus 3:3

Matthew 28:1-15 (NIV)

After 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.

1) You do not need to be afraid.

Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:1-6, Matthew 28:10,

Matthew 28:1-6 (NIV)

After 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.

Matthew 28:10 (NIV)

Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Luke 2:9-11 (NIV)

An 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.

Matthew 10:28-29 (NIV)

Do 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.

2) You can come and know Jesus.

Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:5, 6, Matthew 28:8, 9, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8,

Matthew 28:5, 6 (NIV)

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.

Matthew 28:8, 9 (NIV)

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.

1 Corinthians 15:3-8 (NIV)

For 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.

3) You can make a difference in other’s lives.

Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:10, 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, 1 John 1:1-4

Matthew 28:10 (NIV)

Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

2 Corinthians 5:14, 15 (NIV)

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.

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)

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.”

Acts 1:8 (NIV)

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.”

1 John 1:1-4 (NIV)

That 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.

A prayer that we all may desire to pray…

Dear God,

I know that I am a sinner.
I believe that Jesus died for my sins.
Please forgive me for my sins. I receive your forgiveness. I receive you as my Savior.
I 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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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.

Main Scripture Reference(s): Matthew 25:31-46

Matthew 25:31-46

“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.

“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.’

“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?’

“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.’

“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.’

“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?’

“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.’

“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

1) THE MEASURE OF GENUINE FAITH

Scriptures referenced: Matthew 25:40, James 2:18, Ephesians 2:8-10, James 1:27, John 4:8

2) THE METHOD FOR GENUINE FAITH

Scriptures referenced: Psalm 34:8,

• Know Jesus (Psalm 34:8)

• Position yourself to be transformed by Jesus

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Listen along as Pastor Paul Knight, Pastor Patrick Severson, and Pastor Mason Peters, randomly draw your questions and answer them unfiltered.

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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.

Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 5:21-33, Matthew 19:6,

Ephesians 5:21-33 (NIV)

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Wives, 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.

Husbands, 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.

Matthew 19:6 (NIV)

“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

1) Tighten your commitment to Living a Christ-like Picture of Marriage.

Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:25, 29-33

Ephesians 5:25 (NIV)

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…

After 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.

Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)

In 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!

Six Reasons Why Marriage Matters?

1. For the connection of men and women.

(1 Corinthians 11:11 NLV; Genesis 2:18 NIV)

1. For the multiplication of the human race.

(Malachi 2:15 NLT)

1. For the protection of children.

(Proverbs 14:26 NASB)

1. For the perfection of our character.

(Proverbs 18:1 CEV)

1. For the construction of society.

(Proverbs 14:34 CEV)

1. For the reflection of our union with Christ.

(Ephesians 5:26-33 NCV)

2) Tighten your commitment to Living the Character of Christ in Marriage

Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:21, 2 Corinthians 5:15, Philippians 2:7, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Colossians 3:13

Ephesians 5:21 (NIV)

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV)

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.

Philippians 2:7 (NIV)

...rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant,

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)

Love 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.

Colossians 3:13 (NIV)

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

• Submission
• Forgiveness

“Couples don’t fall out of love so much as they fall out of repentance.”

~Gary Thomas, Sacred Marriage

3) **Tighten your Commitment to Living the Covenant of Marriage

Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:31, Ephesians 5:31, Genesis 2:24, 25, Matthew 19:4-6

Ephesians 5:31 (NIV)

For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”

Genesis 2:24, 25 (NIV)

That 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.

Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV)

“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.”

A 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.

~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.

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

Main Scripture Reference(s): Exodus 20:8-11

Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV)

“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…

1) A People Who Remember and Rest.

Scriptures referenced: Exodus 20:8-11,

Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV)

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, 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.

“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. . .

Remember 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.

Deuteronomy 5:12-15 (NIV)

“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..

Remember 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.

Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV)

Thus 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.

Exodus 31:16-17 (NIV)

The 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.’”

Numbers 15:32-36 (NIV)

While 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.

2) Learn to Trust for a Day of Rest.

Scriptures referenced: Exodus 16:14-30, Matthew 11:28-30, Matthew 6:25-34, Galatians 5:1, Colossians 2:16-17,

Exodus 16:14-30 (NIV)

When 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

Lord 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.’”

The Israelites did as they were told...

Then Moses said to them, “No one is to keep any of it until morning.”

However, 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.

Each 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.’”

So 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.”

Nevertheless, 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.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)

“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.”

Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV)

“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?

…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.

Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

It 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.

Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV)

Therefore 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.

“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

3) The Gift of Holy Rest.

Scriptures referenced: Exodus 20:1-17 (NIV),

Exodus 20:1-17 (NIV)

“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.

“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. . .

“You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.

“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.

“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. . .

“You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.

Commandments 1 to 3 = Love God

“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.

Commandment #6 = Let God Love You

1. “Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

2. “You must not murder.

3. “You must not commit adultery.

4. “You must not steal.

5. “You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.

6. “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.”

Commandments 6 to 19 = Love Others

Mark 2:27, 28 (NIV)

Then 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.”

Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV)

Therefore 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.

Blessing and Love

Isaiah 56:1-2 (NIV)

This 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.”

A Daily Affirmation:

I 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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Main Scripture Reference(s): 2 Corinthians 5:11-21

2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (NIV)

Since, 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.

So 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.

Where is your place of deployment?

How to Impact Your Workplace!

1) Show up like a Christ follower.

Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:20, 2 Corinthians 5:11-15, 1 Corinthians 7:17

2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV)

We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.

2 Corinthians 5:11-15 (NIV)

Since, 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.

1 Corinthians 7:17 (NIV)

Nevertheless, 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.

A Daily Affirmation:

I am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor.

2) See Others like a Christ follower.

Scriptures referenced: Book 1:1,

2 Corinthians 5:16-17 (NIV)

So 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!

Mark 12:30, 31 (NIV)

“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.”

Romans 5:8 (NIV)

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.

1 John 4:19 (NIV)

We love because he first loved us.

Genesis 1:26-28 (NIV)

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness...

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them...

3) Serve Others Like a Christ follower.

Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 4:10, 11, Ephesians 2:10,

2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (NIV)

All 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.

Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

1 Peter 4:10, 11 (NIV)

Each 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.

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

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

A Daily Affirmation:

I 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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Main Scripture Reference(s): Colossians 3:17, Colossians 3:1-17,

Colossians 3:17 (NIV)

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.

Colossians 3:1-17 (NIV)

Since, 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.

Put 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.

Let 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.

Four Guide Words for Doing Work in the Name of the Lord

1) Identity

Work that glorifies is done by people who know they are His.

Scriptures referenced: Colossians 3:1, Colossians 3:3, Colossians 3:12, Colossians 3:23,24,

Colossians 3:1 (NIV)

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ,

Colossians 3:3 (NIV)

For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.

Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,

Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…

2) Morality

Work that glorifies is done with the values of Jesus Christ.

Scriptures referenced: Colossians 3:5-11, Colossians 3:12-14,

Colossians 3:5-11 (NIV)

Put 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.

Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV)

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.

3) Quality

Work that glorifies is done to the best of your ability for Jesus Christ.

Scriptures referenced: Colossians 3:23,24, Colossians 3:10, Colossians 3:15,16, Colossians 3:23-25, Genesis 1:31,

Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…

Colossians 3:10 (NIV)

…and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.

Colossians 3:15,16 (NIV)

Let 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.

Colossians 3:23-25 (NIV)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.

Genesis 1:31 (NIV)

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

4) Eternity

Work that glorifies is done with an eye on eternity.

Colossians 3:1b-4 (NIV)

…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.

Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.

1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (NIV)

By 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.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)

Therefore 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.

“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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Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 2:1-3, Genesis 2:15, Exodus 20:9

Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV)

Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.

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.

Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

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

Exodus 20:9 (NIV)

Six days you shall labor and do all your work . . .

but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord… (Sabbath means rest)

1) Making your work

Scriptures referenced: Genesis 2:15,

Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

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

Genesis 3:17-18 (NIV)

“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.”

• God hasn’t called us merely to make a living.

• He has invited us to make a life!

John 10:10 (NASB)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would
have life, and have it abundantly

2) Remember work is godly.

Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV)

Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.

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.

Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

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

Exodus 20:9 (NIV)

Six days you shall labor and do all your work . . .

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 (NIV)

For 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.

Ephesians 4:22-29 (NIV)

You 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.

3) Remember work is a gift.

Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Genesis 2:19-20 (NIV)

Now 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.

John 3:16 (NIV)

For God so loved the world that he gave

Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

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

Deuteronomy 8:18 (NIV)

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.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party

Quick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

• Review 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

1. Becoming like Jesus, a Soul Whisperer.

“Discovering the art of being a spiritual influencer.”

Scriptures referenced: Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 6:30-37, John 4:9-15, Luke 19:1-6 & 9-10

Matthew 9:9-13 (NIV)

As 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."

Mark 6:30-37 (NIV)

The 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."

John 4:9-15 (NIV)

The 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."

John 19:1-6 (NIV)
Jesus 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)
Jesus 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."

2. Learn to Listen to the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures referenced: Mark 1:17, Acts 1:6-8, Acts 3:19, Habakkuk 3:1, 2,

Mark 1:17 (NIV)

And Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men."*

Acts 1:6-8 (NIV)

Then 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."

Acts 3:19 (NIV)

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

Habakkuk 3:1, 2 (NIV)

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet. On shigionoth.*

Because We Need More . . .

“Revival and prayer always go together. They are inseparably linked.” ~David Mains

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party

Quick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

• Review the main idea behind each of the points.

• Read all the related Scripture passages.

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The Most Popular Book… Can You Trust It?

Main Scripture Reference(s): 2 Timothy 3:16, Psalm 119:105, Jeremiah 15:16, Proverbs 2:1-10

2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

Nun Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Jeremiah 15:16 (NIV)

When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty.

Proverbs 2:1-10 (NLT)

My 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.

1. The Bible is no ordinary book.

Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:16, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, 1 Peter 1:19-21

2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NIV)

And 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.

1 Peter 1:19-21 (NIV)

but 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.

2. Convinced?

Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:14-17, 2 Timothy 3:6-7, Acts 17:11-12, 2 Peter 1:16

2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIV)

But 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.

2 Timothy 3:6-7 (NIV)

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, 7 always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.

Acts 17:11-12 (NIV)

Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.

2 Peter 1:16 (NIV)

For 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.

3. The Bible’s dangerously beautiful power.

Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Timothy 3:1-14, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 119:11, 1 Peter 3:15-16

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

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

2 Timothy 3:1-14 (NIV)

But 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,

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

For 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.

Psalm 119:11 (NIV)

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

1 Peter 3:15-16 (NIV)

But 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.

Because We Need More . . .

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party

Quick Review:

Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

• Review the main idea behind each of the points.

The Bible is not an ordinary book.

1. In what ways do you personally find the bible unique?

2. How do the claims of the bible invite you or ghallenge you?

3. Do you treat the bible in a way that is consistent with it's uniqueness?

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Acts 2:42-47 NIV
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
A ___________ People

Acts 2:22-24 NIV
“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
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 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
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
An ___________ people

The Source of their power
a. ___________

Acts 1:8 NIV
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.”
b. ___________

Acts 2:46, 47 NIV
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.
c. ___________

Acts 2:46 NIV
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,
A ___________ people

Acts 2:42 NIV
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching . . .

Ephesians 6:17 NIV
Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

1 Corinthians 2:14 :NIV
The 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
The 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.
A ___________ people

Acts 2:42 NIV
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

Acts 2:44 NIV
All 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
Do 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
For 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
“…remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
A ___________ people

Acts 2:47 NIV
. . . 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
Then 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
Dear 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.
We are ___________!
The church is a people not a place.

DISCUSSION UESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party

1. Quick Review

a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

1. Which characteristic of the early church struck a chord with you?

a. A Gospel People

b. An Empowered People

c. A God’s Word People

d. A Giving People

e. A Mission People

1. When you think of the above characteristics, where do you think the church is doing well?

2. Where do you think the church needs improvement?

3. 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

1. Thinking of the characteristics above, where do you contribute well to the church living the characteristics?

2. For the sake of the church, where do you think you need to improve?

3. What is your next step?

To connect in a lifegroup check out this link: https://www.gfhope.org/lifegroups

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“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.
18 “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.
19 “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

Then 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.
23 “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.
26 “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.
28 “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.
29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’
30 “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.
32 “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.
35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

1. One Anothering well is the ____________ of your ____________, be forgiving.

Matthew 18:15-20 NIV

“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.

Matthew 5:23, 24 NIV

“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.

John 17:20-22 NIV

“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—

Ephesians 4:3 NIV

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

1 Corinthians 11:17, 18 NIV

In 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.

Matthew 5:43-48 NIV

“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.

Forgiveness:

I will live with the consequences of your sin and not seek vengeance or retribution, but rather your blessing.
One Anothering well affects ____________ ____________, be forgiving.

Matthew 18:21, 22 NIV

Then 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.

Colossians 3:13 NIV

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

Matthew 6:12 NIV

And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

Galatians 5:1 NIV

It 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.

· Forgiveness doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter

· Forgiveness doesn’t mean there has to be trust

· Forgiveness doesn’t mean you forget.

· It does affect your relationship with God too

· The goal to God is always to heal your broken one another.

· Forgiveness reflects your love for God.

· Unforgiveness reflects your being forgiven.
When your “One Another” is ____________ choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!
a. Start by looking at ____________.

Matthew 18:21, 22 NIV

Then 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.

Romans 12:3 NIV

For 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,
b. Focus on what was done ____________ you, not ____________ you.

Matthew 18:32, 33 NIV

“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?’
c. Go to ridiculous ____________ with your forgiveness.

Matthew 18:22 NIV

Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
d. Choose ____________ over judgement

Matthew 18:33 NIV

Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’

James 2:12, 13 NIV

Speak 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.

Mercy
When God chooses to not give you what you deserve.
e. Live with an “as God has forgiven you” heart or

Matthew 18:33-35 NIV

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. 35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Matthew 6:14 NIV

For 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.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party

1. Quick Review

a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

1. What stood out to you in the message?

One Anothering is the heart of your Father, be forgiving.

1. Did you know that the phrase ONE ANOTHER appears over 100 times in the New Testament?

2. Discuss or think about how important one anothering it to God.

3. How do you think your love for God affects your love for others?

4. How do you think your love for others affects your love for God?

5. When you don’t love someone, don’t forgive them, what do you think that says about your being forgiven?

6. One Anothering well affects your heart, be forgiving.

7. How do you see unforgiveness affecting your life?

8. If God were to give you forgiveness like you forgive others, what would that be like for you?

9. Think through and discuss why you are holding unforgiveness toward a person or persons.

10. 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!

1. Start with you: What does God desire from you?

2. Are you willing to consistently ask God for help so that you are forgiving? Pause now and do that.

3. What has been done for you: Rehearse the extent that you have been forgiven. Are you like more the unforgiving servant or Jesus?

4. God calls us to ridiculous extremes in our forgiveness. How does that make us more like Him?

5. Choose mercy: Are you willing to choose mercy? Why or Why Not?

6. As God has forgiven you: If God forgives like you do, what will that be like for you?

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Revelation 2:1-7 NIV

“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:
These 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.
4 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.
7 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

“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:
These 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.
6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

Revelation 2:4 NIV

Yet I hold this against you. . .
“The cause of Christ, as important as it is, is not more important than your love for Christ.”

Revelation 2:4 NIV
|Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.

Mark 12:28-31 NIV
One 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?”
29 “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
Hear, 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
If 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.
“You know you have drifted when your doing for Jesus is more important than your devotion to Jesus.”

1. How to ____________ to first ____________ .

Revelation 2:4-5 NIV
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.

Was there a time when you loved Christ more than you love him now?

If you do not have a relationship with Jesus and would like to speak to someone about that please text: madenew to 474747

“Lord God, I need to confess to you a huge sin in my life.
My love for you has grown weak, casual, and cold.
I have been so busy and doing that I have drifted in my devotion to you.
Please forgive me. Help me turn back to a first love devotion to you.
Amen.”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party

1. Quick Review

a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

1. What stood out to you in the message?

Good things can rob you of the best thing.

1. What good things compete with or threaten the best thing (Jesus Christ) in your life?

2. How or why do you think they compete or threaten your devotion to Jesus Christ?

3. 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.

1. Do you think Jesus would say that you have forsaken your first love?

2. In what ways do you think stepping away from first love for Jesus is affecting you?

How to return to first love.

1. Remember: What do you remember of your early devotion to Jesus Christ?

2. 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

3. Repent: Are you willing to confess the loss of first love for Jesus as sin?

4. If you are in a great “love” spot with Jesus Christ, take a moment and thank Him.

5. If so, take a moment and do that. If not, ask yourself why you are not.

6. 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:
Crazy Love by Francis Chan

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If 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.

Proverbs 25:22 NIV
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink

Proverbs 24:17, 18 NIV
Do 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
“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
14 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
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Romans 12:19 NIV
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.

John 15:5 NIV
“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
. . . be filled with the Spirit,

Romans 8:26-39 NIV
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness . . .

Galatians 5:22-26 NIV
But 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
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.

Romans 12:11 NIV
Never 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
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.

John 16:33 NIV
“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
Blessed 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
Therefore 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**
. . . 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
Then 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

• For 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

• Proverbs 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

• How 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

• The 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:

• Here are a few resources to help you see this type of living in action.

Books:

In the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham
For 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
Based on the story of 5 missionaries martyred by the Auca Indians in 1956.
Five 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
(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
Through Gates of Splendor - not rated

To End All Wars – Rated R

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Proverbs 22:6
“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).

WISE PARENTS TRUST GOD’S WORD AND LEAD LIKE THE GOOD SHEPHERD!

1. Wise Parents Provide (Proverbs 27:23-27, Psalm 23:2)

Proverbs 27:23-27
“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
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”

1. Wise Parents Restore (Proverbs 11:8, Psalm 23:3a)

Proverbs 11:8
“The righteous man is rescued from trouble…”

Psalm 23:2
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”

1. Wise Parents Lead (Proverbs 4:11, Psalm 23:3)

Proverbs 4:11
“I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.”

Psalm 23:3b
“He guides me in paths of righteousness.”

1. Wise Parents Remain Present (Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4b)

Proverbs 2:8
“For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”

Psalm 23:4b
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me.”

1. Wise Parents Defend and Protect (Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4c)

Proverbs 2:8
“For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”

Psalm 23:4
“Your rod and staff they comfort me.”

1. Wise Parents Comfort (Proverbs 10:29, Psalm 23:4c, 5b)

Proverbs 10:29
“The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous...”

Psalm 23:5
“You anoint my head with oil…”

1. Wise Parents Prepare (Proverbs 27:23-27, Psalm 23:5a)

Psalm 23:5a
“You prepare a table before me…”

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My 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.
Financial Principle #1
Clarify Who You Are and the Value of Things

Proverbs 3:5 NIV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart

Proverbs 3:9. 10 NIV

Honor 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.

Proverbs 22:1-2 NIV

A 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.

Proverbs 9:10 NIV

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 11:4 NIV

Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.

Deuteronomy 14:22, 23 NIV

Be 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.

Malachi 3:6-12 NIV

“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.

Psalm 24:1 NIV

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;

Matthew 6:24 NIV

“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.

A Tool to Help: The Tithe Challenge https://www.gfhope.org/giving

Michael Jr. – comedy clip on giving from LifeChurch.com

Bit starts approx. 17:46 (the whole message is good and funny)

9 Reasons Why We Give a Tithe and More… Pastor Paul and Bonnie Knight

Financial Principle #2
Set a Step by Step, Bit by Bit Financial Pace.

Proverbs 13:11 ESV
Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.

Proverbs 10:4 NIV
Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.

Proverbs 12:11 NIV
Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

Proverbs 21:5, 6 NIV
The 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
Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.

Luke 16:10-13 NIV
“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:

10 / 10 / 80

A Tool to Help: Financial Peace University – Fall at HOPE Church

Book: Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

Ramsey’s Baby Steps – See bonus content below or follow link:

Financial Principle #3
There is Power in “Not Yet and No.”

Proverbs 20:21 NIV
The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.

Proverbs 28:25 NIV
The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper.

Proverbs 22:7 NIV
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender.

Psalm 37:21 NIV
The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously;

Financial Principle #4
Experience the Joy of Being Gloriously Generous

Proverbs 11: 24, 25
One 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
A 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
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.

Proverbs 21:13 NIV
Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered.

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NIV
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.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party

Quick Review

    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?

Financial Principle #1 -- Clarify Who You Are and the Value of Things

Do you think of yourself under the Lordship of Jesus Christ?

Do you see your possessions and money as belonging to God?

How does your view of who you are and the value of things affect your daily life?

Financial Principle #2 -- Set a Step by Step, Bit by Bit Financial Pace.

Do you have a financial plan for the management of money?

Does your plan fit with worldly wisdom or Godly wisdom?

Are there areas where you struggle regarding Godly financial wisdom?

Are there areas where you experience joy and victory in managing finances?

Financial Principle #3 -- There is Power in “Not Yet and No.”

How do you personally handle delayed gratification?

Where have you been victorious in waiting and been blessed?

Financial Principle #4 -- Experience the Joy of Being Gloriously Generous

1 Corinthians 9:7 states that God loves a cheerful giver. Do you consider yourself cheerful in your giving?

If you are not a cheerful giver, what would help you get to that point?

Are you generous?

Bonus Content:
9 Reasons Why We Give a Tithe and More…
Pastor Paul and Bonnie

1. We believe what the bible teaches about tithing and giving.
2. We love the Church and want to support it.
3. We agree that tithing and generous giving is a principle of financial freedom.
4. We want to model tithing and generous giving, primarily to our family.
5. We need to combat our own personal greed and consumerism.
6. We trust and love God.
7. We want to acknowledge His provision and protection of us.
8. To remind us that we are not home, we are aliens and strangers here.
9. Because we like it, it is fun. Dave Ramsey 7 Baby Steps

Baby Step 1
Save $1,000 for your starter emergency fund.

Baby Step 2
Pay off all debt (except the house) using the debt snowball.

Baby Step 3
Save 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund.

Baby Step 4
Invest 15% of your household income in retirement.

Baby Step 5
Save for your children’s college fund.

Baby Step 6
Pay off your home early.

Baby Step 7
Build wealth and give.

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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.
A Life Question: Are you on a path that is leading to God’s best for you?

Proverbs 3:1-6 NIV

My 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.

Proverbs 3:6b NIV

… and he will make your paths straight.

Matthew 7:13, 14 NIV

“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.

Genesis 12:1a & 2 NIV

The 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.”
Wisdom Lesson:
Wisdom is knowing the best life possible is the life lived on the path designed by God.
Three Practices for the Journey to a Great Life
Practice #1
Develop a Deep ________________________ in the Lord.

Proverbs 3:5 NIV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart

Proverbs 3:1 NIV

My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart

Proverbs 3:3 NIV

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.

Genesis 12:1-5 NIV

The 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 . . .
Wisdom Lesson:
Wisdom is knowing that where you want to be may require you to move from where you are! Trust God on the journey.
Practice #2
Determine to ________________________ in a Way ____________ to God’s Way.

Proverbs 3:5b NIV

and lean not on your own understanding. . .

Proverbs 14:12 NIV & Proverbs 16:25 NIV

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.

Ephesians 6:10-14 NIV

Finally, 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. .

Genesis 16:1-3 NIV

Now 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.
Wisdom Lesson:
When your way and God’s way are contrary its always wiser to take God’s way.
Practice #3
Acknowledge that _________is ______Over ______, _________.

Proverbs 3:6a NASB

In all your ways acknowledge Him. . .

Proverbs 3:6a NIV

. . . in all your ways submit to him

Luke 22:42 NIV

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

Genesis 22:1, 2 NIV

Some 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.”
Wisdom Lesson:
Acknowledging God is always best even when his best leads to sacrifice and submission.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party

1. Quick Review

a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

1. What stood out to you in the message?

Are you on a path that is leading to God’s best for you?

1. In your everyday life, are you living on the path that God has designed for you?

2. Are there specific areas of your life that you know you have taken a detour off God’s path?

a. What are those areas?

Practice #1 -- Develop a Deep Heart Trust in the Lord.

1. In what areas of your life do you have difficulty trusting God?

2. How do you think you can develop that practice of Heart Trust?

3. 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

1. Where are you most apt to go your way over God’s way?

2. 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?

3. 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

1. Do you agree with the idea that God should be God over everything, always?

2. 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.

To let us know you have made this decision, to receive more information or for guidance in this decision please text: MADENEW to 474747

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** Proverbs 20:1**

"Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise".

** Proverbs 23:29-35**

29 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?”

1. Drunkenness ____________. Is drunk you, the real you?

** Matthew 12:34-35**

34 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.
“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**

20 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.

“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.

• I must have a drink to relax
• I must have a drink to socialize
• I must have a drink to deal with life
• I must have a drink to fit in
• I must have a drink because I’m happier when I drink

The more a person consumes the more a person loses.

• Loses the will to think straight
• Loses the will to act right
• Loses the ability to control themselves
• Loses the ability to function

“We can’t be filled with the Spirit and filled with wine at the same time”

1. ____________ and ____________

Ephesians 5:18-21 (NIV)

18 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.
A. Old Life (Eph. 5:18a)
B. New Life (Eph. 5:18b)

Questions:

1. What stood out to you most about this Sunday’s sermon?
2. How is wine (strong drink) a mocker?
3. Is getting drunk a sin?
4. Do you think that drunkenness is cause for separation from eternity in heaven? Luke 21:34, 1 Cor. 6:10, Gal. 5:21
5. 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?
6. If you don’t drink alcohol, why not?
7. Why do you think being drunk with alcohol and filled with the Spirit are used in the same sentence?
8. What things of the old you have you cut off and what evidence of the Holy Spirit do you see with-in yourself?

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-- Selected Verses --

Matthew 6:25-27

(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?
Stop ____________ about life
He is our _________.
Worry is _________.

Proverbs 12:25 (NLT)

25 Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

Proverbs 12:25 (NIV)

25 Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.
Worry means to _________.
Worry _________ your mind.
Worry Affects You in 4 Ways:
1.) ____________
2.) ____________
3.) ____________
4.) ____________

Worrying isn’t good for you.

Worry is Distracting, Consuming, and Paralyzing.

Worry strangles the peace and purpose right out of our lives. \

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

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.

1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Methods for Handling Worry, Stress, Anxiety
A. ____________

(Heb. 12:28; Ps. 95; Ps. 100)

B. ____________

** (1 Thess. 5:17; Jer. 29:11-14; 1 John 5:14-15)**

C. ____________

(Rom. 12:4-5; Prov.11:2; Ex.18:14-15)

D. ____________

(Heb. 10:24-25; 1 Cor. 12:25-27)

E. ____________

(2 Tim. 3:16; Ps. 119:105; Matt. 4:4; Joshua 1:8)

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-- Selected Verses --

Proverbs 29:22 NIV
An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.

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

Proverbs 15:18 NIV
A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

Proverbs 19:11 NIV
A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.

Ephesians 4:26, 27 NIV
“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 --

1. The Smoldering Heart!

Proverbs 29:22 NIV
An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.

Proverbs 15:18 NIV
A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

Proverbs 22:24, 25 NIV
Do 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.
Where does anger come from?

A. Anger that starts from a holy discontent

Mark 3:3-6 NIV
Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.”
4 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,
“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.

C. Anger that starts from an ungodly source

Ungodly anger is the outward evidence of an inward erosion.

2. Be aware of Anger Danger!

Proverbs 14:17 NIV
A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.

Proverbs 25:28 NIV
Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.
Negative Responses to Anger

• A. Stuff It
• B. Stoke it
• C. Spew it

Ungodly anger

Ephesians 4:29-31 NIV
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.
A person who lives with a continual ungodly anger is demonstrating their unwillingness to submit to God.

3. Positively Dealing with your anger.

Proverbs 15:18 NIV
A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

Proverbs 19:19 NIV
A hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again.

Proverbs 29:11 NIV
Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.

Proverbs 16:32 NIV
Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.

Proverbs 19:11 NIV
A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.
Let God use your anger to serve His purposes, in you and in the world.
Put your anger out or put it to work.
Positively Processing Your Anger
a. Take ownership of your anger.

Job 19:4 & 2 Corinthians 5:9-10
b. Go under the surface to the source.

James 4:1-4
c. Learn to cross your heart and head.

James 1:19, 20
d. Take your thoughts captive.

Romans 12:1-2 & 1 Corinthians 10:3-6

FOUR WISDOM DEVELOPING PRACTICES

1. ONCE A WEEK LIFE HACKS MESSAGE

2. 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

3. A WEEKLY PROVERB -- Memorize & Mediate on the weekly (distributed at services or online).

4. LIFE HACK GROUPS -- Go to gfhope.org for more information or email: pseverson@gfhope.org

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party

1. Quick Review

a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

1. What stood out to you in the message?

2. As you examine your heart and your head, what causes anger in you?

3. Is your anger godly or ungodly?

4. Has your godly anger become ungodly in the way you express it?

5. How aware are you about the source of your anger? Why do you get angry?

6. Is there an anger in you that God would want put out?

7. Is there an anger in you that God would want put to work?

8. What are your next steps to deal with the anger that is in you or that arises?

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Genesis 1:26, 27 NIV
Then 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
For 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
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

1. Have a bold, crazy, risk-taking ____________ in ____________ .

Hebrews 11:6 NIV
And without faith it is impossible to please God . . .

Revelation 3:15, 16 NIV
I 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
For 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.

1. Learn to ____________ things you love for things you love ____________ ____________ .

Romans 12:1, 2 NIV
Therefore, 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
But 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
Jesus 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.”

1. Be ____________

Matthew 16:17, 18 NIV
Jesus 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
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party

Remind each other of the 4 Points main points from the message.

Look up all the passages mentioned under each of the points.

You are made on purpose for a purpose.

What is the importance of knowing that you are made on purpose?

The primary purpose for each person is to bring glory to God. How are you seeking to live your purpose for God’s glory?

Have a bold, crazy, risk-taking trust in God.

Where in your past have you exercise the kind of trust mentioned in the above statement?

Where in your life do you think God is wanting you to “really” trust Him?

Learn to give up things you love for things you love even more.

Read Matthew 22:37-40

Take a moment and clarify what you love most.

Is there something you love that is getting in the way of what you love even more?

Be Church

The church is people not a place. In what ways are you Church?

Church is people not just an individual person, in what ways are you living as church with others?

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Exodus 2:1-3 NIV
Now 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
By 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.
The Story of an amazing woman, Jochebed, a mother.
What is it that Great ____________ of Faith Do?

1. Great Moms of Faith Don’t Live ____________ the ____________.

Exodus 1:8-14 NIV
Then 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
By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.

Acts 16:24-26 NIV
When 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.
Great people of faith don’t live under the circumstances, but live a courageous anticipation of God’s blessing!

1. Great Moms of Faith Live with a Healthy ________________________

Exodus 1:15-22 NIV
The 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
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Revelation 3:16 NIV
So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.

Philippians 1:14 NIV
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.

1. Great Moms of Faith Live a ____________ Culture Defying ____________

Exodus 2:1-10 NIV
Now 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
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
The place intended for destruction and death, becomes the place of deliverance.

1. Great Moms of Faith Live a ________________________

Hebrews 11:24-28 NIV
24 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
“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
Train 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
“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.
Pray for those under your care.

Pray for their salvation

Pray for their return to relationship to the Lord

Pray that you would not get stuck living “under the circumstances.”

Pray for your personal faith, that it would be white hot.

Pray for a creative courage in protecting your children.

Pray that your faith will influence them.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party

Read Exodus 1 & 2:1-10

Remind each other of the 4 Points main points from the message.

How do you see the times mentioned in Exodus and our times similar?

Where do you currently feel that you are living under circumstances that God would want you to rise over?

What do you do to nurture your relationship with God and a healthy fear of Him?

How can you prevent the cooling of your heart, so that you are not lukewarm?

As a parent, where could you or would you like to be more creatively courageous in protecting your children?

Think 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?

It 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?

    See Luke 15

Pray together through the items mentioned above.

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Mark 16:8-20 NIV
Trembling 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
Then 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”

Go-yness Is moving obediently into every place with the ________, ________ ___________ message of Jesus!

1. Admit Your ___________

Mark 16:8 NIV
Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.

Mark 16:14 NIV
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 16:16 NIV
…but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

John 3:16-18 NIV
For 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.

1. ___________ Jesus

Mark 16:15, 16 NIV
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.

Mark 16:12-14 NIV
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.

Mark 1:14-17 NIV
After 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
“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: ___________
Who is the good news about: ___________

With your ___________

With your ___________

1. Trust Your ___________ to Jesus

Mark 16:17-20 NIV
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 28:19, 20 NIV
Therefore go . . . . And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Acts 1:8 NIV
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.”

As a Christ follower,
I desire to trust Him for every encounter in my life;
the good, the bad and the ugly.

Bringing My World to Christ
Pick 3 people to pray for:

1. their ___________
2. ___________ to share the good news in your life
3. ___________ and ___________ when the opportunity comes

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and

THINGS TO PONDER

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party

Read the passage/s

Review each of the points of the message to remind yourself of what was spoken about.

    Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

    Together review each of the main points, talk through them, and remind each other of what was said.

1. ADMIT YOUR EMOTIONS

   All followers of Jesus are called to “Go into all the world…” When you think of that command what emotions do you experience?

   Discuss how you can submit your emotions to your obedience.

2. EXPRESS JESUS

   In a world that is increasingly full of bad news, how can we be good news givers?
   
   What good news have you experienced lately and how does it point to or include Jesus?
   
   So often people speak about the things of Jesus and the truths about Jesus without speaking about the person of Jesus. What are you doing to keep your relationship with Jesus fresh and current?
   
   Tell about a time when you spoke to someone about Jesus that did not know Him personally.
   
   Have you prepared your story/s of your encounters with Jesus so that you can express it? Take turns and share a recent experience with Jesus
   

3. TRUST YOUR ENCOUNTERS TO JESUS

   How has the Lord protected you in your past?
   
   Think of the three people you are praying for, how can you turn your encounters with them into God appointments?
   

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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.

Mark 12 37-55
NIV

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.”

Spying with Jesus...

Mark 12:41
NIV

Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury.

OBSERVATION #1 = IT ALL BELONGS TO GOD

Mark 12:38-40
The 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.”

Psalm 24:1
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,

Deuteronomy 8:17-18
NIV

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.

1 Chronicles 29:10-13
NIV

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.

Luke 16:10-12
NIV

“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?

A KINGDOM PRINCIPLE....

WHEN YOU GIVE, YOU GIVE WHAT IS ALREADY GOD'S.

OBSERVATION #2

SACRIFICIAL GENEROSITY MAKES GOOD SENSE!

Mark 12:41-42 & 44
NIV

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.”

Proverbs 11:24-26
NLT

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.

2 Corinthians 9:6-12
ESV

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.

For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your life group, or a watch party

Quick Review –

    Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

    Together review each of the main points, talk through them, and remind each other of what was said.

If you have experienced a time when your generosity was blessed by God, tell about it.

Message Discussion:

1. Observation #1 -- It all belongs to God.

· Why do you think people are so impressed by those with money?

· Do you tend to consider people with money “higher” than those without?

· In what ways and in what areas do you notice yourself flaunting for recognition?

· If Jesus were to observe your giving patterns, what do you think He would say or teach about how and what you give?

· Do you agree with the statement: It all belongs to God?

· How is that demonstrated in your life?

· Discuss the Kingdom Principle: When we give, we give what already belongs to God.

1. Observation #2 -- Sacrificial Generosity Makes Good Sense!

· Jesus said, the widow gave all. Why could this make sense?

· Michael Jr., the comedian, said that “tithing is not generosity that’s just not stealing.” How do you respond to that?

· To watch his whole message The Right Response with Michael Jr. follow this link:

· Discuss the kingdom principle: You cannot out give God.

· What are your thoughts about Tithing and God’s promises in Malachi 3.

Would you be willing to respond to God’s invitation? http://gfhope.org/giving

Observation #3: Your Impact Can Go Beyond Your Capacity.

· Where have you observed or experienced impact beyond capacity?

· Discuss this equation: Your Gift + Your Faithful Heart + God = Exponential Impact

· Discuss this kingdom principle: Value is not measured by earthly status but by the heavenly Owner!

· Discuss this kingdom principle: Faithfully do your part, then watch God create the impact.

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