We’re convinced God wants to be present and powerful in every part of our lives, church, and community. We know it’s not all good. In fact, sometimes things are downright difficult. However, even when life gets hard, God is working for our good. (Romans 8:28) Real deal relationship with Jesus is…
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --2 Cor. 5:7(NKJ) says For we walk by faith, not by sight.Pro. 3:5 (nkjv) Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;2 Tim 1:12(nkjv)For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.Takeaway:Trust is making the willful choice to Center your life slap dab in the middle of Jesus. Putting your everything in His hands!I have come to know that Trust and Surrender are inseparable! (Not a takeaway-Just a deep truth) Job 1:20(niv) At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worshipJob 13:15a(nkjv) Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.Luke 22:42(nkjv)“Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.”Takeaway:To truly walk in Trust that brings peace to your thoughts, to your fears, to your life will require surrender.Philippians 4:6,7(nkjv) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.Takeaway: As we walk in Faith and Trust that is surrendered to Gods will, We will experience a supernatural peace that will Guard our hearts and our minds as we keep them centered on Jesus! Poem:Our human hearts grow fearfulMostly of the unknown,A deep unsettled dread of darkness Of a future not yet shown.A fear that forces each of usTo believe in what we know,To believe in who He says He isA belief that makes us grow.It is faith that fights for freedomFrom the fears that creep inside,It's a faith that shows the next step In fully trusting we can abide.To step onto the path of trust Is laying down your all,It's waving high the white flagIt's answering a higher call.It's crying out “Your will be done” Not an ounce of me,Whatever lies before my steps Will be glorious to seeFor I know your way is betterTo prosper through the pain,To cry and sow to grieve and growClothed in Holy Gain.And the fruit is Peace that's constantA Peace so hard to understand,A Peace that comes from knowingYou are centered in Jesus' hand.And now I lay me down to sleep Worry gone away,The presence of my Jesus Forever here to stay!-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Jesus is certainly the center of it all, but the question remains: are we living lives truly centered on Him?Oh, the depth of the riches and the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments and untraceable his ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? And who has ever given to God, that he should be repaid? For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen. Romans 11:33-35 CSB The question isn't whether something is at the center of your life, but rather what or who that something is?For through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can't see, such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together. Colossians 1:16-17 NLTIn geometry, the center point is the fixed reference from which distance and balance are measured.Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 NLTWe often unnecessarily wobble our way through life.Ahab summoned all the people of Israel and the prophets to Mount Carmel. Then Elijah stood in front of them and said, “How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!” But the people were completely silent. I Kings 18:20-21 NLTIn a world cursed by the uncertainty of fallen humanity, Jesus at the center offers peace and stabilityTo be clear, there is a serious element of surrender involved in being centered on Jesus.I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 ESVMy old identity built on ego, pride, sin and selfishness has been put to death. Surrendering my life to Christ isn't self-destruction, it's Christ-centered transformation. When I'm centered on Jesus, my values, motives, strength, and direction come from Jesus. If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Luke 9:23-24 NLTPoem - Christ The Center BeI think the fall knocked the world off it's axisCausing a wobble in humanity's walkAnd for Geometry's truth become praxisComing right will take more than talkPresently, beneath a cloud of doubt and fright,Mortal thoughts in a fog of confusion and chaos roam,While a gravitational force with prophetic mightDraws wandering souls who've strayed far from home.And just like the planets, that obey a pull they cannot see,So to hearts find peace and stability, when Christ the center be.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2 CSBWhen they saw the star, they were overwhelmed with joy. Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:10-11 CSBThe day is coming,” says the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. Jeremiah 31:31 NLTJesus in the manger was God stepping into our mess to bring us the miracle of a new beginning!When God gives you a do over, be careful you don't continue to do the same thing over and over again.The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:23-24 ESVJesus is personal, persistent, aggressive, and gracious in His pursuit of our hearts and His plan for our lives. Count off seven Sabbath years, seven sets of seven years, adding up to forty-nine years in all. Then on the Day of Atonement in the fiftieth year, blow the ram's horn loud and long throughout the land. Set this year apart as holy, a time to proclaim freedom throughout the land for all who live there. It will be a jubilee year for you.Debts were Forgiven If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9 NLT To have our sin debt forgiven and the slate wiped clean is a miracle! If you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive you. Matthew 6:15 NLTTo harbor unforgiveness toward others is to pridefully miss on the miracle of God's forgiveness in your own life.The Enslaved were Set Free. I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. John 8:34-36 NLT The hurt and hold of our broken past and patterns is undone by the power and authority of Jesus in our lives. Land was returned to the original families.I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts. Joel 2:25 NLTThe land rested but still produced harvest.Our fresh start won't last if we return to striving when we should be listening and trusting. Jesus came to make us new!Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Revelation 21:1-6 ESVThe most miraculous new beginning is the new beginning God has prepared for us in forever! -- Jubilee Poem --Amazing Grace how sweet the soundNo longer trapped on sins merry go roundJesus came to save a wretch like me.In this world I'm prone to failureSubject to deceptions jailor But the sinless Son of God has set me free. The gift He gave, a new beginning No longer bound to keep on sinning It's true I once was blind, but now I see.With His life He paid my debtHe took my shame and my regretAnd returned His best to me in Jubilee.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2 CSBWhen they saw the star, they were overwhelmed with joy. Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:10-11 CSBThe day is coming,” says the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. Jeremiah 31:31 NLTJesus in the manger was God stepping into our mess to bring us the miracle of a new beginning!When God gives you a do over, be careful you don't continue to do the same thing over and over again.The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:23-24 ESVJesus is personal, persistent, aggressive, and gracious in His pursuit of our hearts and His plan for our lives. Count off seven Sabbath years, seven sets of seven years, adding up to forty-nine years in all. Then on the Day of Atonement in the fiftieth year, blow the ram's horn loud and long throughout the land. Set this year apart as holy, a time to proclaim freedom throughout the land for all who live there. It will be a jubilee year for you.Debts were Forgiven If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9 NLT To have our sin debt forgiven and the slate wiped clean is a miracle! If you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive you. Matthew 6:15 NLTTo harbor unforgiveness toward others is to pridefully miss on the miracle of God's forgiveness in your own life.The Enslaved were Set Free. I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. John 8:34-36 NLT The hurt and hold of our broken past and patterns is undone by the power and authority of Jesus in our lives. Land was returned to the original families.I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts. Joel 2:25 NLTThe land rested but still produced harvest.Our fresh start won't last if we return to striving when we should be listening and trusting. Jesus came to make us new!Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Revelation 21:1-6 ESVThe most miraculous new beginning is the new beginning God has prepared for us in forever! -- Jubilee Poem --Amazing Grace how sweet the soundNo longer trapped on sins merry go roundJesus came to save a wretch like me.In this world I'm prone to failureSubject to deceptions jailor But the sinless Son of God has set me free. The gift He gave, a new beginning No longer bound to keep on sinning It's true I once was blind, but now I see.With His life He paid my debtHe took my shame and my regretAnd returned His best to me in Jubilee.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
Then Mary gave birth to her firstborn son, and she wrapped him tightly in cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Don't be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.” Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors! Luke 2:7-14 CSBMore than Christmas celebrations. Jesus came to call us to salvation. For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen! Isaiah 9:6 NLTImmanuel is more than a baby in a manger, He's the King on heavens throne! For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. Luke 19:10 NLTJesus came to redeem the damage done by our rebellion in the garden, and to restore relationship with our heavenly Father forever. The most important question at Christmas is what will we do with Jesus?I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Matthew 27:22 NLTThe Son of God was revealed for this purpose: to destroy the devil's works. 1 John 3:8 CSB
Then Mary gave birth to her firstborn son, and she wrapped him tightly in cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Don't be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.” Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors! Luke 2:7-14 CSBMore than Christmas celebrations. Jesus came to call us to salvation. For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen! Isaiah 9:6 NLTImmanuel is more than a baby in a manger, He's the King on heavens throne! For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. Luke 19:10 NLTJesus came to redeem the damage done by our rebellion in the garden, and to restore relationship with our heavenly Father forever. The most important question at Christmas is what will we do with Jesus?I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Matthew 27:22 NLTThe Son of God was revealed for this purpose: to destroy the devil's works. 1 John 3:8 CSB
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --How did so many miss on the miracle of the messiah in the manger, and do we miss the miracle too? At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. Luke 2:25-31 NLTRighteous devotion is the heart posture and perspective necessary to recognize God's promised provision.You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39 NLT The surrendered heart, fine tuned by God's word, will always see what the head alone is likely to miss.Eagerly waitingPreconceived notions often keep us from noticing God's miraculous favor as it play out in our lives.Anna, a prophetess, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem. Luke 2:36-38 NLT You are less likely to miss a miracle if you hang out with people who also have a persistent faith.Then Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up. “There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?” John 6:8-9 NLT Andrew recognized a miracle was possible because he had His eyes firmly fixed on the Messiah.The God gift to see the miracle before it has fully manifested is a powerful gift. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Luke 2:32 NLTThe greatest miracle from the story of Simeon and Anna is that they didn't miss on the presence of Jesus,-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --How did so many miss on the miracle of the messiah in the manger, and do we miss the miracle too? At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. Luke 2:25-31 NLTRighteous devotion is the heart posture and perspective necessary to recognize God's promised provision.You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39 NLT The surrendered heart, fine tuned by God's word, will always see what the head alone is likely to miss.Eagerly waitingPreconceived notions often keep us from noticing God's miraculous favor as it play out in our lives.Anna, a prophetess, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem. Luke 2:36-38 NLT You are less likely to miss a miracle if you hang out with people who also have a persistent faith.Then Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up. “There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?” John 6:8-9 NLT Andrew recognized a miracle was possible because he had His eyes firmly fixed on the Messiah.The God gift to see the miracle before it has fully manifested is a powerful gift. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Luke 2:32 NLTThe greatest miracle from the story of Simeon and Anna is that they didn't miss on the presence of Jesus,-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The prophetic fulfillment in the conception and birth of Jesus testify to the miracle of God's power!But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel, whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf. Micah 5:2 NLTAt that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. Luke 2:1-7 NLTGod's has the power to do both the improbable and impossible according to His will and purpose. To presume we know how God should act is to mistrust His sovereign wisdom and love. Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36 NLTI pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else, not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. Ephesians 1:19-22 NLTTo believe God can't or doesn't do miracles today is to completely miss on the impact of His power and compassion! I dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” The LORD is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. Lamentations 3:21- 25 NLTOur hope is forever in the compassion and power of our ever-present, all-knowing, miracle working Messiah!-POEM-Our merciful messiah came in a mangerWith hidden strength soon to be shown. Immanuel here to save and to heal,His power and presence, He came to make known. The God who created the stars and the heavensCreated my inner most being too. A universe so large it's hard to conceiveWith tiny electrons for creations glue.God's power is boundless, beyond descriptionHis love is vast, and yet intimately near. Awe and honor are owed to our SaviorStill He calls us to come, no reason to fear.This world is caught in a cosmic conflictThe fight is for every heart and soulThe prince of darkness, the architect of brokenKill, steal, and destroy his only goal. Our fallen world in the pangs of deathIncludes various hellish hurts and painMany are we in need of a miracle Exactly the reason Immanuel came. The babe born at Christmas is here to heal Discontentment, addiction, broken bodies and heartsHis sovereign discernment guides His compassionHis Grace and mercy never miss the mark. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The prophetic fulfillment in the conception and birth of Jesus testify to the miracle of God's power!But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel, whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf. Micah 5:2 NLTAt that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. Luke 2:1-7 NLTGod's has the power to do both the improbable and impossible according to His will and purpose. To presume we know how God should act is to mistrust His sovereign wisdom and love. Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36 NLTI pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else, not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. Ephesians 1:19-22 NLTTo believe God can't or doesn't do miracles today is to completely miss on the impact of His power and compassion! I dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” The LORD is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. Lamentations 3:21- 25 NLTOur hope is forever in the compassion and power of our ever-present, all-knowing, miracle working Messiah!-POEM-Our merciful messiah came in a mangerWith hidden strength soon to be shown. Immanuel here to save and to heal,His power and presence, He came to make known. The God who created the stars and the heavensCreated my inner most being too. A universe so large it's hard to conceiveWith tiny electrons for creations glue.God's power is boundless, beyond descriptionHis love is vast, and yet intimately near. Awe and honor are owed to our SaviorStill He calls us to come, no reason to fear.This world is caught in a cosmic conflictThe fight is for every heart and soulThe prince of darkness, the architect of brokenKill, steal, and destroy his only goal. Our fallen world in the pangs of deathIncludes various hellish hurts and painMany are we in need of a miracle Exactly the reason Immanuel came. The babe born at Christmas is here to heal Discontentment, addiction, broken bodies and heartsHis sovereign discernment guides His compassionHis Grace and mercy never miss the mark. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us'). Isaiah 7:14 NLTOther religions are based on mankind's efforts to ascend to God, Christmas is the story of God coming down to us.At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. Luke 2:1-7 NLT The messiah in the manger wrapped His divinity in human fragility so we could be holy, we could be whole, and we could be His. - - (Communion will go here just FYI)Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:8-14 NKJVThe miracle of God's presence isn't just for certain ones, but everyone, everywhere, and every situation. In every moment of life it's God's palpable presence that provides both peace, and the power for a miracle. God's presence is often missed because we're preoccupied with self or circumstance.Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.” The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For the word of God will never fail.” Mary responded, “I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her. Luke 1:34-38 NLT Faith isn't for bossing God, it's for believing God.God's presence can change a fearful hesitant heart to a faith-filled trusting heart empowered by His.When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” Luke 1:44-45 ESVBelieving is seeing not the other way around.But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS. Matthew 1:20-25 NKJVFaith isn't a way to hold God hostage to our perspectives, but how we hold God's hand while we trust in Him.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us'). Isaiah 7:14 NLTOther religions are based on mankind's efforts to ascend to God, Christmas is the story of God coming down to us.At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. Luke 2:1-7 NLT The messiah in the manger wrapped His divinity in human fragility so we could be holy, we could be whole, and we could be His. - - (Communion will go here just FYI)Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:8-14 NKJVThe miracle of God's presence isn't just for certain ones, but everyone, everywhere, and every situation. In every moment of life it's God's palpable presence that provides both peace, and the power for a miracle. God's presence is often missed because we're preoccupied with self or circumstance.Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.” The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For the word of God will never fail.” Mary responded, “I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her. Luke 1:34-38 NLT Faith isn't for bossing God, it's for believing God.God's presence can change a fearful hesitant heart to a faith-filled trusting heart empowered by His.When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” Luke 1:44-45 ESVBelieving is seeing not the other way around.But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS. Matthew 1:20-25 NKJVFaith isn't a way to hold God hostage to our perspectives, but how we hold God's hand while we trust in Him.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24 NLTLevav / Heart: The center of character, will, and understanding. The place you think, feel, desire, and decide. Kardia: the inner self, thoughts, emotions, desires, and decisions. The control center of human life.(Read verses 7-8) The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. Jeremiah 17:9-10 ESVWe cannot have a heart that is whole without the help and healing of the Lord. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NLTHeart health doesn't come from either emotional limitation or liberation, but instead emotions surrendered to and sorted by Jesus. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:17 NLTSteward your heart by giving your heart to God! Thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1 ESVIt is impossible to live a life meaning with the Lord without a heart that is whole and His.Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLTThe Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 ESVGod can only guide and guard the heart He governs, and He will only govern the heart he owns. 2) Steward your Heart by Guarding your Heart! Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 3:23 NLTGod doesn't just want your habits, He wants your heart! Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies. Daniel 1:8 NKJVDaniel lived in Babylon, but Babylon didn't live in Daniel. Can we live found in a world that's lost it's way or live free in a culture of captivity? - Yes!A guarded heart is anchored in Godly identity, not the worldly environment or culture.3) Steward your heart by choosing to have a heart for after God.Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 ESVBlessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESVFor where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 ESV-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24 NLTLevav / Heart: The center of character, will, and understanding. The place you think, feel, desire, and decide. Kardia: the inner self, thoughts, emotions, desires, and decisions. The control center of human life.(Read verses 7-8) The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. Jeremiah 17:9-10 ESVWe cannot have a heart that is whole without the help and healing of the Lord. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NLTHeart health doesn't come from either emotional limitation or liberation, but instead emotions surrendered to and sorted by Jesus. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:17 NLTSteward your heart by giving your heart to God! Thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1 ESVIt is impossible to live a life meaning with the Lord without a heart that is whole and His.Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLTThe Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 ESVGod can only guide and guard the heart He governs, and He will only govern the heart he owns. 2) Steward your Heart by Guarding your Heart! Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 3:23 NLTGod doesn't just want your habits, He wants your heart! Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies. Daniel 1:8 NKJVDaniel lived in Babylon, but Babylon didn't live in Daniel. Can we live found in a world that's lost it's way or live free in a culture of captivity? - Yes!A guarded heart is anchored in Godly identity, not the worldly environment or culture.3) Steward your heart by choosing to have a heart for after God.Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 ESVBlessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESVFor where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 ESV-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --God designed each one us to know and follow Him, that's our destinyFor we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 CSBFor God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory. Romans 8:29-30 NLTPredestined means predesigned, not predetermined! How do we steward well God's will?1) Believe - Gods plans for you are intentional and good!Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you. Jeremiah 1:5 MSG You are divinely designed to know and walk with God and to live a life of meaning not misery. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can't even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me! Psalm 139:15-18 NLT God's plans for you are intentional, not accidental, and they're good!For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NLT2) Trust - Trust God with every decision, direction and outcome. Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLTThe call isn't to trust in God‘s plan, but rather to trust in God's character!I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6 NLTGod's plan is not a guess, it's a gift!The LORD will work out his plans for my life, for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever. Psalm 138:8 NLTDon't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT Trust opens the door for God work out His will and purposes in our lives which are for our good. May he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. Hebrews 13:20-21 NLTTrust is always tested when trouble comes.3) Persist - - Persist in pursuing God and His will in every season and situation and for the long haul.Promise always comes with a process. - The process is not punishment, it's preparation.If you can't steward the pit with faithfulness, you won't steward the palace with humility.Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 ESVImpatience has a tendency to weaken our persistence and overrule our willingness to follow God's process. I declare the end from the beginning, and from long ago what is not yet done, saying: my plan will take place, and I will do all my will. Isaiah 46:10 CSB-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --God designed each one us to know and follow Him, that's our destinyFor we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 CSBFor God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory. Romans 8:29-30 NLTPredestined means predesigned, not predetermined! How do we steward well God's will?1) Believe - Gods plans for you are intentional and good!Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you. Jeremiah 1:5 MSG You are divinely designed to know and walk with God and to live a life of meaning not misery. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can't even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me! Psalm 139:15-18 NLT God's plans for you are intentional, not accidental, and they're good!For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NLT2) Trust - Trust God with every decision, direction and outcome. Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLTThe call isn't to trust in God‘s plan, but rather to trust in God's character!I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6 NLTGod's plan is not a guess, it's a gift!The LORD will work out his plans for my life, for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever. Psalm 138:8 NLTDon't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT Trust opens the door for God work out His will and purposes in our lives which are for our good. May he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. Hebrews 13:20-21 NLTTrust is always tested when trouble comes.3) Persist - - Persist in pursuing God and His will in every season and situation and for the long haul.Promise always comes with a process. - The process is not punishment, it's preparation.If you can't steward the pit with faithfulness, you won't steward the palace with humility.Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 ESVImpatience has a tendency to weaken our persistence and overrule our willingness to follow God's process. I declare the end from the beginning, and from long ago what is not yet done, saying: my plan will take place, and I will do all my will. Isaiah 46:10 CSB-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. Luke 16:13 ESVMoney cannot be allowed to compete with God for your heart.The mastery of money starts with having the right attitude about money.Money will make you more of what you already are. - - Dave RamseyGodliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Timothy 6:6 CSBComparison is an ungodly attitude regarding money, positions and possessions.)Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Luke 12:15 ESVKeep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5 ESVIt's not money, but the love of money that's an issue.For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10 CSB He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity Ecclesiastes 5:10 ESVInstruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God, who richly provides us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share, storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of what is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 CSBDon't trust in riches, but rather in our God who richly blesses. Honor the LORD with your possessions and with the first produce of your entire harvest. Proverbs 3:9 CSBIf you don't tell your money where to go, you'll wonder where it went.If you're only offering God crumbs from your once full pie plate He gave you, that's a problem.Bring your full tithe to the Temple treasury so there will be ample provisions in my Temple. Test me in this and see if I don't open up heaven itself to you and pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams. Malachi 3:10 MSGRemember this, a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 NLTIf you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? Luke 16:11 NLTGodly financial stewardship isn't about how much you have, but what you do with what you have. Generously steward according to God's Kingdom Priorities Don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:16 NLTGenerosity is stewardship based on obedience and faith, not you financial portfolio. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” 2 Corinthians 9:8-9 NLTCompassionately - Unless your heart is engaged in your giving you won't give for long. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion, how can God's love be in that person? 1 John 3:17 NLT True compassion always leads to generosity. - - Give out of compassion not compulsion! For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 2 Corinthians 9:10 NLTTrue generosity comes from the heart of God and lives in the hearts of those who love and follow Him.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. Luke 16:13 ESVMoney cannot be allowed to compete with God for your heart.The mastery of money starts with having the right attitude about money.Money will make you more of what you already are. - - Dave RamseyGodliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Timothy 6:6 CSBComparison is an ungodly attitude regarding money, positions and possessions.)Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Luke 12:15 ESVKeep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5 ESVIt's not money, but the love of money that's an issue.For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10 CSB He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity Ecclesiastes 5:10 ESVInstruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God, who richly provides us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share, storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of what is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 CSBDon't trust in riches, but rather in our God who richly blesses. Honor the LORD with your possessions and with the first produce of your entire harvest. Proverbs 3:9 CSBIf you don't tell your money where to go, you'll wonder where it went.If you're only offering God crumbs from your once full pie plate He gave you, that's a problem.Bring your full tithe to the Temple treasury so there will be ample provisions in my Temple. Test me in this and see if I don't open up heaven itself to you and pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams. Malachi 3:10 MSGRemember this, a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 NLTIf you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? Luke 16:11 NLTGodly financial stewardship isn't about how much you have, but what you do with what you have. Generously steward according to God's Kingdom Priorities Don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:16 NLTGenerosity is stewardship based on obedience and faith, not you financial portfolio. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” 2 Corinthians 9:8-9 NLTCompassionately - Unless your heart is engaged in your giving you won't give for long. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion, how can God's love be in that person? 1 John 3:17 NLT True compassion always leads to generosity. - - Give out of compassion not compulsion! For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 2 Corinthians 9:10 NLTTrue generosity comes from the heart of God and lives in the hearts of those who love and follow Him.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Stewards not ownersStewardship: the careful, responsible use of God-given resources in a manner that honors God and accomplishes God-given goals1 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 Talents and Time (gifts) Treasure (next week) Testimony (you words and speaking)Temple (what you do with your strength)THT: Bumps, delays and disappointments can cause us pause and consider how we are stewarding our life currencyActs 9:1-6 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”Acts 9:20 NIV At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.Testimony _____________________________________________________________________THT: A testimony is any story that gives God gloryExamples of Testimonies1 recent: stagnant on Bible reading - novel interesting - God's stories - interleavedLet me share one: Sunny day trip, Sarah, let's plan, DR!John 15:7 RRP (Ron's Rough Paraphrase) If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you ''ll want what I want you to want and I'll give you what you want, because I wanted you to want it! Leave this up a bit! People want to write it downTime _____________________________________________________________________“If we really have too much to do, there are some items on the agenda which God did not put there. Let us submit the list to Him and ask Him to indicate which items we must delete. There is always time to do the will of God. If we are too busy to do that, we are too busy.”― Elisabeth Elliot, Secure in the Everlasting ArmsTalent _____________________________________________________________________Romans 12:6-8 NLTIn his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. 7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. 8 If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.Not for screen: Ephesians 4:12 (leader's) responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work Marketplace, ministry, or missions - we are all called to use our giftings to empower and equip the gospelTemple _____________________________________________________________________ 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 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; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.THT: Our bodies are meant to be tended places of His presence, not neglected, polluted, or prized.ClosingMatthew 25:21 NIV“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things'“When you steward what He's already placed in your hands, He can trust you with more. Stay faithful. Steward well, Let God bring the increase.” - John Bevere-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Stewards not ownersStewardship: the careful, responsible use of God-given resources in a manner that honors God and accomplishes God-given goals1 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 Talents and Time (gifts) Treasure (next week) Testimony (you words and speaking)Temple (what you do with your strength)THT: Bumps, delays and disappointments can cause us pause and consider how we are stewarding our life currencyActs 9:1-6 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”Acts 9:20 NIV At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.Testimony _____________________________________________________________________THT: A testimony is any story that gives God gloryExamples of Testimonies1 recent: stagnant on Bible reading - novel interesting - God's stories - interleavedLet me share one: Sunny day trip, Sarah, let's plan, DR!John 15:7 RRP (Ron's Rough Paraphrase) If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you ''ll want what I want you to want and I'll give you what you want, because I wanted you to want it! Leave this up a bit! People want to write it downTime _____________________________________________________________________“If we really have too much to do, there are some items on the agenda which God did not put there. Let us submit the list to Him and ask Him to indicate which items we must delete. There is always time to do the will of God. If we are too busy to do that, we are too busy.”― Elisabeth Elliot, Secure in the Everlasting ArmsTalent _____________________________________________________________________Romans 12:6-8 NLTIn his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. 7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. 8 If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.Not for screen: Ephesians 4:12 (leader's) responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work Marketplace, ministry, or missions - we are all called to use our giftings to empower and equip the gospelTemple _____________________________________________________________________ 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 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; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.THT: Our bodies are meant to be tended places of His presence, not neglected, polluted, or prized.ClosingMatthew 25:21 NIV“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things'“When you steward what He's already placed in your hands, He can trust you with more. Stay faithful. Steward well, Let God bring the increase.” - John Bevere-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Money isn't a small thing, it's a huge thing, but it's certainly not the main thing. For this reason, since the day we heard this, we haven't stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, so that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, so that you may have great endurance and patience, joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light. Colossians 1:9-12 CSB Strong spiritual roots, rightly cared for, will produce miraculously Godly fruit.When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. John 15:8 NLTThe LORD God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. Genesis 2:15 NLTThis is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 ESVGod has entrusted each of us with gifts, grace, and blessings we are privileged to steward for Him.The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 ESVHonor God's heart by guarding yours. Stewards not OwnersIt's all His, and we're all His! The earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the LORD. Psalm 24:1 CSBOwners are lost in an attitude of me-centric living, while stewards are surrendered to the sovereign right and will of God to lead, decide and direct.For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLTOur call to give our best comes from the God who gave his best. We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. 1 John 3:16 NLTStewardship verses Ownership almost always comes down to who you love and trust most. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 1 John 3:17 ESVBe hospitable to one another without complaining. Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God's words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:9-11 CSBIt is an incredible honor and blessing to give and live, to steward everything we are and have for God. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Money isn't a small thing, it's a huge thing, but it's certainly not the main thing. For this reason, since the day we heard this, we haven't stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, so that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, so that you may have great endurance and patience, joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light. Colossians 1:9-12 CSB Strong spiritual roots, rightly cared for, will produce miraculously Godly fruit.When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. John 15:8 NLTThe LORD God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. Genesis 2:15 NLTThis is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 ESVGod has entrusted each of us with gifts, grace, and blessings we are privileged to steward for Him.The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 ESVHonor God's heart by guarding yours. Stewards not OwnersIt's all His, and we're all His! The earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the LORD. Psalm 24:1 CSBOwners are lost in an attitude of me-centric living, while stewards are surrendered to the sovereign right and will of God to lead, decide and direct.For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLTOur call to give our best comes from the God who gave his best. We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. 1 John 3:16 NLTStewardship verses Ownership almost always comes down to who you love and trust most. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 1 John 3:17 ESVBe hospitable to one another without complaining. Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God's words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:9-11 CSBIt is an incredible honor and blessing to give and live, to steward everything we are and have for God. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:1-3 NASB Rooted in the Word.We live in a world sick from a counsel of confusion and wickedness that scoffs at truth and reason.Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:8 NLTI have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 NLTAll Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLTYour word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105 NLT The Bible, when read rightly, brings humility that offers hope, not humiliation. While knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn't really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes. 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 NLTTruly loving the Word leads to loving the Author of the Word.You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39 NLT The written Word must connect us to the living Word or we've missed the point of knowing the Word.In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-5 & 14 NLTThen Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. John 8:31-32 NRSVThe bible is more than a book you're meant to get through, it's a book that's meant to get through you.And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Revelation 12:10-11 ESV-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:1-3 NASB Rooted in the Word.We live in a world sick from a counsel of confusion and wickedness that scoffs at truth and reason.Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:8 NLTI have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 NLTAll Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLTYour word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105 NLT The Bible, when read rightly, brings humility that offers hope, not humiliation. While knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn't really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes. 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 NLTTruly loving the Word leads to loving the Author of the Word.You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39 NLT The written Word must connect us to the living Word or we've missed the point of knowing the Word.In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-5 & 14 NLTThen Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. John 8:31-32 NRSVThe bible is more than a book you're meant to get through, it's a book that's meant to get through you.And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Revelation 12:10-11 ESV-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Colossians 4:2 says – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”It's not a suggestion—it's a calling. We are commanded to pray.Knowing about God isn't the same as knowing God.Prayer is what transforms knowledge about God into a relationship with God.John 17:3 – “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”Prayer is the catalyst that turns information into intimacy.James 4:8 says – “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”I believe it is impossible to have a strong relationship with God without prayer.Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”Prayer is not just about talking to God; it is just as much — or even more — about listening to Him.Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”That is how to be rooted in prayer: just as roots are always attached to the soil, prayer is how we stay connected to God.If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask what you want, and I will give you what you want, because I wanted you to want it.Prayer has the power to break strongholds, shift circumstances, and release God's will on earth.James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”Our father knows what we need, but there is power in asking him.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Colossians 4:2 says – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”It's not a suggestion—it's a calling. We are commanded to pray.Knowing about God isn't the same as knowing God.Prayer is what transforms knowledge about God into a relationship with God.John 17:3 – “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”Prayer is the catalyst that turns information into intimacy.James 4:8 says – “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”I believe it is impossible to have a strong relationship with God without prayer.Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”Prayer is not just about talking to God; it is just as much — or even more — about listening to Him.Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”That is how to be rooted in prayer: just as roots are always attached to the soil, prayer is how we stay connected to God.If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask what you want, and I will give you what you want, because I wanted you to want it.Prayer has the power to break strongholds, shift circumstances, and release God's will on earth.James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”Our father knows what we need, but there is power in asking him.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Once again Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables, such as this one: Mark 4:1-2 NLTNot everyone who comes to hear the truth is there to actually listen.Listen! A farmer (sower) went out to sow some seed. Mark 4:3 NLTWithout the Godly seed being sown we have no hope of having deep healthy roots that bear Godly fruit! As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn't have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! Mark 4:4-8 NLT And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9 ESV Honestly and Intentionally listening will give the seed of God's word an opportunity to take root in our lives. When they were off by themselves, those who were close to him, along with the Twelve, asked about the stories. He told them, “You've been given insight into God's kingdom, you know how it works. But to those who can't see it yet, everything comes in stories, creating readiness, nudging them toward a welcome awakening. These are people, Whose eyes are open but don't see a thing, Whose ears are open but don't understand a word, Who avoid making an about-face and getting forgiven.” Mark 4:10-12 MSG Anyone who will lay down their deeply rooted previous perspectives, and truly wants to hear, will hear. And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. Mark 4:13 ESVHumility is a huge indicator of the condition of the soil of our hearts. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. Mark 4:14 NLTThe hard pre-decided heart will not receive the truth of God.The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word. Mark 4:15-16 NLTShallow roots are the result of enthusiasm without a willingness to do the real work of going deep with God. The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. Mark 4:17-18 NLTThe rocks deter the root, while the weeds the destroy the fruit. Weeds hide and grow, even thrive in the un-surrendered places in our hearts.Repentance isn't just saying you're sorry; it's re-aligning your heart with God's way, truth and life!And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Mark 4:20 NLTToday, if you hear his voice, do not harden your heart. Hebrews 4:7 CSB-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Once again Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables, such as this one: Mark 4:1-2 NLTNot everyone who comes to hear the truth is there to actually listen.Listen! A farmer (sower) went out to sow some seed. Mark 4:3 NLTWithout the Godly seed being sown we have no hope of having deep healthy roots that bear Godly fruit! As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn't have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! Mark 4:4-8 NLT And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9 ESV Honestly and Intentionally listening will give the seed of God's word an opportunity to take root in our lives. When they were off by themselves, those who were close to him, along with the Twelve, asked about the stories. He told them, “You've been given insight into God's kingdom, you know how it works. But to those who can't see it yet, everything comes in stories, creating readiness, nudging them toward a welcome awakening. These are people, Whose eyes are open but don't see a thing, Whose ears are open but don't understand a word, Who avoid making an about-face and getting forgiven.” Mark 4:10-12 MSG Anyone who will lay down their deeply rooted previous perspectives, and truly wants to hear, will hear. And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. Mark 4:13 ESVHumility is a huge indicator of the condition of the soil of our hearts. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. Mark 4:14 NLTThe hard pre-decided heart will not receive the truth of God.The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word. Mark 4:15-16 NLTShallow roots are the result of enthusiasm without a willingness to do the real work of going deep with God. The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. Mark 4:17-18 NLTThe rocks deter the root, while the weeds the destroy the fruit. Weeds hide and grow, even thrive in the un-surrendered places in our hearts.Repentance isn't just saying you're sorry; it's re-aligning your heart with God's way, truth and life!And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Mark 4:20 NLTToday, if you hear his voice, do not harden your heart. Hebrews 4:7 CSB-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Pro. 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick… ( Act 27:20 When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved) (Zero expectation that this situation would get better, and great expectation they were fixin to die!)PAUL WAS HOPELESS!I believe that since Paul was human, He took His eyes off of the promise God had given him, let the enemys voice influence his faith and gave up.Have you heard that enemy voice whisper to you? THIS IS THE END…Its Over?They wont ever serve JesusYou will never get a better or another JobYou wont ever walk in freedom from this substanceFear and Anxiety will always control you!Your marriage wont surviveYour pain will never subsideYour ship is gonna sink and you gonna die!If we continue to let this voice whisper, we too will become HOPELESS! Jonah was running away from God, Paul was running towards God!Both men encountered a terrible storm:Hope from the root-Tikvaw To fasten/tie/attach Now we know from what the bible says Heb. 6:19 that Jesus is our hope and… that Jesus is our HopeHope is an attachment or tying yourself to Jesus in real everyday relationship. This attachment births in your heart an expectation of something good that you cant see yet.If you need hope, You fasten yourself to Jesus.He is the only source of Hope that will never let you down.Talk about rooted! Now This is what you need to know about fastening to Jesus, Its Surrender!, Its giving control of your life to Him, You go where He goes, You do what He does… knowing that He Loves you like crazy and has your best interest at heart, If He takes you into a storm he is working it for your good ☺…It takes FAITH to trust Him when You cant see the end of the storm!Takeaway:There are no deeper roots/no greaterBut watch this…If true hope is being tied tight to Jesus, to become HOPE-LESS means that you have become unattached to that very same hope.We see this in Both Jonah and Paul, they were both hopeless because either in their thought process or actions they became unattached to the source of Hope! GOOD NEWS ALERT!They each survived a terrible storm/a hopeless situation and went on to fulfill Gods call on their lives!HOW? What was the common denominator that restored their hope?Jonah 2:6,7 Jonah 2:6,7 7 “When my life was ebbing away(in hopelessness), I remembered you, Lord,and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple.6 and you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.I cried out to the Lord in my affliction, from sheol(the grave)I was a goner, but I repented(re-attached) myself to God, he heard me- delivered me and restored my hope!God met Paul in the belly of a great ship—Quiet possibly the darkest most hopeless night of his life, hungry/wet/seasick/…HOW DID HE OVERCOME THIS? AND an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve(A physical representation of Jesus) stood beside me 24 and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; You are going to make it through…In a moment(with one encounter) He went from Hopeless to rooted in Hope for himself and those around him!In both cases Hope returned when they re-attached themselves with expectancy to God through FAITH!Both men found out that: Takeaway:Hope is not found in the absence of Storms but in Jesus who may not calm the storm but will walk with us through our darkest hour, through our wildest storms.Jesus will love you even in the midst of your mess, even if you created the mess-- but He is committed to doing whatever it takes to not leave you there in a hopeless situation! If we will Root down into Jesus… An expectancy will sprout and begin to grow whispering … *The storm wont last forever, *Change is coming, *That you won't always be stuck on a ship that is about to sink*You wont always be imprisoned in something that your disobedience producedYou wont always be in bondage to hurts, habits, Anxieties, fears, disappointments!Philippians 1:6 He(Jesus) who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it! Here is a scripture you probably don't know but its found in Romans 8:28 He works all things for good…to those who are attached to Him! Even in a stormJer. 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.That word “expected” is Tikvaw(Hope that comes from attachment)The purpose of your storms is Tikvaw— To bring you to a place of Surrender and Trust as you attach yourself to Jesus! Rooted in Hope!Fastened to Jesus/Anchored in Hope/Rooted-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Pro. 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick… ( Act 27:20 When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved) (Zero expectation that this situation would get better, and great expectation they were fixin to die!)PAUL WAS HOPELESS!I believe that since Paul was human, He took His eyes off of the promise God had given him, let the enemys voice influence his faith and gave up.Have you heard that enemy voice whisper to you? THIS IS THE END…Its Over?They wont ever serve JesusYou will never get a better or another JobYou wont ever walk in freedom from this substanceFear and Anxiety will always control you!Your marriage wont surviveYour pain will never subsideYour ship is gonna sink and you gonna die!If we continue to let this voice whisper, we too will become HOPELESS! Jonah was running away from God, Paul was running towards God!Both men encountered a terrible storm:Hope from the root-Tikvaw To fasten/tie/attach Now we know from what the bible says Heb. 6:19 that Jesus is our hope and… that Jesus is our HopeHope is an attachment or tying yourself to Jesus in real everyday relationship. This attachment births in your heart an expectation of something good that you cant see yet.If you need hope, You fasten yourself to Jesus.He is the only source of Hope that will never let you down.Talk about rooted! Now This is what you need to know about fastening to Jesus, Its Surrender!, Its giving control of your life to Him, You go where He goes, You do what He does… knowing that He Loves you like crazy and has your best interest at heart, If He takes you into a storm he is working it for your good ☺…It takes FAITH to trust Him when You cant see the end of the storm!Takeaway:There are no deeper roots/no greaterBut watch this…If true hope is being tied tight to Jesus, to become HOPE-LESS means that you have become unattached to that very same hope.We see this in Both Jonah and Paul, they were both hopeless because either in their thought process or actions they became unattached to the source of Hope! GOOD NEWS ALERT!They each survived a terrible storm/a hopeless situation and went on to fulfill Gods call on their lives!HOW? What was the common denominator that restored their hope?Jonah 2:6,7 Jonah 2:6,7 7 “When my life was ebbing away(in hopelessness), I remembered you, Lord,and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple.6 and you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.I cried out to the Lord in my affliction, from sheol(the grave)I was a goner, but I repented(re-attached) myself to God, he heard me- delivered me and restored my hope!God met Paul in the belly of a great ship—Quiet possibly the darkest most hopeless night of his life, hungry/wet/seasick/…HOW DID HE OVERCOME THIS? AND an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve(A physical representation of Jesus) stood beside me 24 and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; You are going to make it through…In a moment(with one encounter) He went from Hopeless to rooted in Hope for himself and those around him!In both cases Hope returned when they re-attached themselves with expectancy to God through FAITH!Both men found out that: Takeaway:Hope is not found in the absence of Storms but in Jesus who may not calm the storm but will walk with us through our darkest hour, through our wildest storms.Jesus will love you even in the midst of your mess, even if you created the mess-- but He is committed to doing whatever it takes to not leave you there in a hopeless situation! If we will Root down into Jesus… An expectancy will sprout and begin to grow whispering … *The storm wont last forever, *Change is coming, *That you won't always be stuck on a ship that is about to sink*You wont always be imprisoned in something that your disobedience producedYou wont always be in bondage to hurts, habits, Anxieties, fears, disappointments!Philippians 1:6 He(Jesus) who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it! Here is a scripture you probably don't know but its found in Romans 8:28 He works all things for good…to those who are attached to Him! Even in a stormJer. 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.That word “expected” is Tikvaw(Hope that comes from attachment)The purpose of your storms is Tikvaw— To bring you to a place of Surrender and Trust as you attach yourself to Jesus! Rooted in Hope!Fastened to Jesus/Anchored in Hope/Rooted-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 ESV Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESVIn order to thrive and bear fruit in any season or weather what matters most is where you're planted!The righteous thrive like a palm tree and grow like a cedar tree in Lebanon. Planted in the house of the LORD, they thrive in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, healthy and green, to declare, “The LORD is just; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” Psalm 92:13-15 CSBChrist-followers who are planted in a life giving, God following community are more fruitful and resilient than they would ever be if they were trying to live life on their own. Though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him. A threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 ESV Friendship divides your sorrows and doubles your joys. - AnonymousSo then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. Ephesians 2:19-21 ESV God is more than enough to make us great together!When we are rooted in the love of God true family becomes our reality. For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:14-21 ESVOnly God and us get to decide for us who we get to become together. Just a suggestion Planted in the house of the LORD, they thrive in the courts of our God. Psalm 92:13 CSBA friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17 ESVHow happy are those who reside in your house, who praise you continually. Selah. Happy are the people whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a source of spring water; even the autumn rain will cover it with blessings. They go from strength to strength; each appears before God in Zion. Psalm 84:4-7 CSBChrist-centered community is the right covering and comfort for crisis. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 ESV Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESVIn order to thrive and bear fruit in any season or weather what matters most is where you're planted!The righteous thrive like a palm tree and grow like a cedar tree in Lebanon. Planted in the house of the LORD, they thrive in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, healthy and green, to declare, “The LORD is just; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” Psalm 92:13-15 CSBChrist-followers who are planted in a life giving, God following community are more fruitful and resilient than they would ever be if they were trying to live life on their own. Though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him. A threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 ESV Friendship divides your sorrows and doubles your joys. - AnonymousSo then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. Ephesians 2:19-21 ESV God is more than enough to make us great together!When we are rooted in the love of God true family becomes our reality. For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:14-21 ESVOnly God and us get to decide for us who we get to become together. Just a suggestion Planted in the house of the LORD, they thrive in the courts of our God. Psalm 92:13 CSBA friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17 ESVHow happy are those who reside in your house, who praise you continually. Selah. Happy are the people whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a source of spring water; even the autumn rain will cover it with blessings. They go from strength to strength; each appears before God in Zion. Psalm 84:4-7 CSBChrist-centered community is the right covering and comfort for crisis. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Colossians 2:6-76 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.Daniel 1:1-2King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 The Lord gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of JudahThe Lord gave Nebuchadnezzar victory???Messes with my theology. Ever feel like God is giving all the victory to your enemies?When we are rooted in him, we can trust God to strategically use bad situations to bring about profound good.He did it here, He'll do it for you.Daniel 1:3-54 “Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men,” he said. “Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon.” 5 The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service.Daniel 1:6-76 Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah. 7 The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names:Daniel (God is my judge) → Belteshazzar (Bel favors him)Hananiah (gracious is Yahweh) → Shadrach (Ishtar)Mishael (who is like Elohim) → Meshach (Marduk)Azariah (he hears Yahweh) → Abednego (Nego)-iah, yah for Yahweh. -el for Elohim. Mesopotamian Gods Marduk, Ishtar, NegoFirst thing they did: they changed their names.Some names given to us, the Church:Dove (So and Psa)God's building (1Co 3:9)God's heritage (1Pe 5:3)Pillar of truth - 1Ti 3:15Free (Gal 4:26)Righteous (Heb 12)Faithful (Heb 13)Peace and mercy-givers (Gal)Being rooted into our name/title… We have these names from God. We need to lean into them by the way we live day-to-day.To be rooted in God means to know, believe, and live out our God-given identity.Daniel 1:8-109 Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel.“Both respect and affection” - this is what we call favor.Pray for us, for favorWhen we are rooted in Christ, his life flowing in us bears the fruits of respect and favor.Daniel 1:12-1612 “Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water,” Daniel said. 13 “At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king's food. Then make your decision in light of what you see.” 14 The attendant agreed to Daniel's suggestion and tested them for ten days.15 At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. 16 So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others.“So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine” that was given to everyone else.If we're going to stand for Jesus through the winds and storms of life, we must be deeply rooted in Him.We won't stand for long if we don't have deep roots.The deeper our roots, the more solid we will stand.Colossians 2:6-76 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.Coming back to this - “Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught”We might have to wait on a miracle but we don't have to wait to be free.When we are deeply rooted, our loyalty to God is not determined by our circumstances.Colossians 2:88 Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.Closing, altar invitation for those who want to be set free from “empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense”Babylon: Your paycheck is enough.Jesus: I am enough.Babylon: This is too hard. You should give up.Jesus: You can do all things when your roots draw strength from me.Babylon: Your identity is in…Jesus: Your identity is in me. God loved you so much that He sent me to die for you.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Colossians 2:6-76 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.Daniel 1:1-2King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 The Lord gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of JudahThe Lord gave Nebuchadnezzar victory???Messes with my theology. Ever feel like God is giving all the victory to your enemies?When we are rooted in him, we can trust God to strategically use bad situations to bring about profound good.He did it here, He'll do it for you.Daniel 1:3-54 “Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men,” he said. “Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon.” 5 The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service.Daniel 1:6-76 Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah. 7 The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names:Daniel (God is my judge) → Belteshazzar (Bel favors him)Hananiah (gracious is Yahweh) → Shadrach (Ishtar)Mishael (who is like Elohim) → Meshach (Marduk)Azariah (he hears Yahweh) → Abednego (Nego)-iah, yah for Yahweh. -el for Elohim. Mesopotamian Gods Marduk, Ishtar, NegoFirst thing they did: they changed their names.Some names given to us, the Church:Dove (So and Psa)God's building (1Co 3:9)God's heritage (1Pe 5:3)Pillar of truth - 1Ti 3:15Free (Gal 4:26)Righteous (Heb 12)Faithful (Heb 13)Peace and mercy-givers (Gal)Being rooted into our name/title… We have these names from God. We need to lean into them by the way we live day-to-day.To be rooted in God means to know, believe, and live out our God-given identity.Daniel 1:8-109 Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel.“Both respect and affection” - this is what we call favor.Pray for us, for favorWhen we are rooted in Christ, his life flowing in us bears the fruits of respect and favor.Daniel 1:12-1612 “Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water,” Daniel said. 13 “At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king's food. Then make your decision in light of what you see.” 14 The attendant agreed to Daniel's suggestion and tested them for ten days.15 At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. 16 So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others.“So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine” that was given to everyone else.If we're going to stand for Jesus through the winds and storms of life, we must be deeply rooted in Him.We won't stand for long if we don't have deep roots.The deeper our roots, the more solid we will stand.Colossians 2:6-76 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.Coming back to this - “Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught”We might have to wait on a miracle but we don't have to wait to be free.When we are deeply rooted, our loyalty to God is not determined by our circumstances.Colossians 2:88 Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.Closing, altar invitation for those who want to be set free from “empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense”Babylon: Your paycheck is enough.Jesus: I am enough.Babylon: This is too hard. You should give up.Jesus: You can do all things when your roots draw strength from me.Babylon: Your identity is in…Jesus: Your identity is in me. God loved you so much that He sent me to die for you.-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV Deep roots anchored to God through trust are essential to faithfulness and fruitfulness through any season. This is what the LORD says: Cursed is the person who trusts in mankind. He makes human flesh his strength, and his heart turns from the LORD. He will be like a juniper in the Arabah; he cannot see when good comes but dwells in the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land where no one lives. Jeremiah 17:5-6 CSBJesus is my ride or die, and He already died, so even when I die I'll live.Whatever you focus on will be where your life takes root. Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:1-3 ESVReal communion with and surrender to God are key to a life rooted in Him.Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESVThe heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it? I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings. Jeremiah 17:9-10 NKJVTrust is the tap root of a wise and fruitful life of faith! Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall. Matthew 7:24-27 NKJVThere are lots of ways to live lost and bound, but true trust in Jesus is the one and only way to live found and free!-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV Deep roots anchored to God through trust are essential to faithfulness and fruitfulness through any season. This is what the LORD says: Cursed is the person who trusts in mankind. He makes human flesh his strength, and his heart turns from the LORD. He will be like a juniper in the Arabah; he cannot see when good comes but dwells in the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land where no one lives. Jeremiah 17:5-6 CSBJesus is my ride or die, and He already died, so even when I die I'll live.Whatever you focus on will be where your life takes root. Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:1-3 ESVReal communion with and surrender to God are key to a life rooted in Him.Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESVThe heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it? I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings. Jeremiah 17:9-10 NKJVTrust is the tap root of a wise and fruitful life of faith! Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall. Matthew 7:24-27 NKJVThere are lots of ways to live lost and bound, but true trust in Jesus is the one and only way to live found and free!-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
God doesn't give revelation to rebels except His gracious call to repentance and restoration. A right relationship with the risen Messiah will cause you to become more and more like Jesus every day.When it was decided that we should sail for Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion of the Augustan Cohort named Julius. And embarking in a ship of Adramyttium, which was about to sail to the ports along the coast of Asia, we put to sea, accompanied by Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica. The next day we put in at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him leave to go to his friends and be cared for. And putting out to sea from there we sailed under the lee of Cyprus, because the winds were against us. And when we had sailed across the open sea along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra in Lycia. There the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing for Italy and put us on board. Acts 27:1-6 ESVWe struggled along the coast with great difficulty and finally arrived at Fair Havens, near the town of Lasea. We had lost a lot of time. The weather was becoming dangerous for sea travel because it was so late in the fall, and Paul spoke to the ship's officers about it. “Men,” he said, “I believe there is trouble ahead if we go on, shipwreck, loss of cargo, and danger to our lives as well.” Acts 27:8-10 NLTWhen a light wind began blowing from the south, the sailors thought they could make it. So they pulled up anchor and sailed close to the shore of Crete. Acts 27:13 NLTWisdom isn't determined by the direction of the wind! But the weather changed abruptly, and a wind of typhoon strength (called a “northeaster”) burst across the island and blew us out to sea. The sailors couldn't turn the ship into the wind, so they gave up and let it run before the gale. Acts 27:14-15 NLTDon't let a moment of favor or desire determine your direction or destiny. The next day, as gale-force winds continued to batter the ship, the crew began throwing the cargo overboard. The following day they even took some of the ship's tackle and threw it overboard. The terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone. Acts 27:18-20 NLTIn a severe storm, earthly possessions and navigation systems can become of little or no value. No one had eaten for a long time. Finally, Paul called the crew together and said, “Men, you should have listened to me in the first place and not left Crete. You would have avoided all this damage and loss. Acts 27:21 NLTA tactical “I told you so” can be a blessing if you receive it as an encouragement to listen next time. - But take courage! None of you will lose your lives, even though the ship will go down. For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, and he said, ‘Don't be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What's more, God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.' So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. But we will be shipwrecked on an island.” Acts 27:22-26 NLT God will always prioritize the condition of your soul and salvation over any temporal success or solution.Just as day was dawning, Paul urged everyone to eat. “You have been so worried that you haven't touched food for two weeks,” he said. “Please eat something now for your own good. For not a hair of your heads will perish.” Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God before them all, and broke off a piece and ate it. Then everyone was encouraged and began to eat, all 276 of us who were on board. Acts 27:33-37 NLTOften it's our response to the problems we face that is the real problem, and what causes us to lose our way.The soldiers decided to kill the prisoners so none could escape by swimming, but the centurion, determined to save Paul, stopped them. He gave orders for anyone who could swim to dive in and go for it, and for the rest to grab a plank. Everyone made it to shore safely. Acts 27:42-44 MSGBut Paul shook off the snake into the fire and was unharmed. The people waited for him to swell up or suddenly drop dead. But when they had waited a long time and saw that he wasn't harmed, they changed their minds and decided he was a god. Acts 28:5-6 NLT For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense. He welcomed all who visited him, boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him. Acts 28:30-31 NLTThe faith and faithfulness of Paul was only outmatched by the faithfulness of our loving, living God.
God doesn't give revelation to rebels except His gracious call to repentance and restoration. A right relationship with the risen Messiah will cause you to become more and more like Jesus every day.When it was decided that we should sail for Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion of the Augustan Cohort named Julius. And embarking in a ship of Adramyttium, which was about to sail to the ports along the coast of Asia, we put to sea, accompanied by Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica. The next day we put in at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him leave to go to his friends and be cared for. And putting out to sea from there we sailed under the lee of Cyprus, because the winds were against us. And when we had sailed across the open sea along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra in Lycia. There the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing for Italy and put us on board. Acts 27:1-6 ESVWe struggled along the coast with great difficulty and finally arrived at Fair Havens, near the town of Lasea. We had lost a lot of time. The weather was becoming dangerous for sea travel because it was so late in the fall, and Paul spoke to the ship's officers about it. “Men,” he said, “I believe there is trouble ahead if we go on, shipwreck, loss of cargo, and danger to our lives as well.” Acts 27:8-10 NLTWhen a light wind began blowing from the south, the sailors thought they could make it. So they pulled up anchor and sailed close to the shore of Crete. Acts 27:13 NLTWisdom isn't determined by the direction of the wind! But the weather changed abruptly, and a wind of typhoon strength (called a “northeaster”) burst across the island and blew us out to sea. The sailors couldn't turn the ship into the wind, so they gave up and let it run before the gale. Acts 27:14-15 NLTDon't let a moment of favor or desire determine your direction or destiny. The next day, as gale-force winds continued to batter the ship, the crew began throwing the cargo overboard. The following day they even took some of the ship's tackle and threw it overboard. The terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone. Acts 27:18-20 NLTIn a severe storm, earthly possessions and navigation systems can become of little or no value. No one had eaten for a long time. Finally, Paul called the crew together and said, “Men, you should have listened to me in the first place and not left Crete. You would have avoided all this damage and loss. Acts 27:21 NLTA tactical “I told you so” can be a blessing if you receive it as an encouragement to listen next time. - But take courage! None of you will lose your lives, even though the ship will go down. For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, and he said, ‘Don't be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What's more, God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.' So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. But we will be shipwrecked on an island.” Acts 27:22-26 NLT God will always prioritize the condition of your soul and salvation over any temporal success or solution.Just as day was dawning, Paul urged everyone to eat. “You have been so worried that you haven't touched food for two weeks,” he said. “Please eat something now for your own good. For not a hair of your heads will perish.” Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God before them all, and broke off a piece and ate it. Then everyone was encouraged and began to eat, all 276 of us who were on board. Acts 27:33-37 NLTOften it's our response to the problems we face that is the real problem, and what causes us to lose our way.The soldiers decided to kill the prisoners so none could escape by swimming, but the centurion, determined to save Paul, stopped them. He gave orders for anyone who could swim to dive in and go for it, and for the rest to grab a plank. Everyone made it to shore safely. Acts 27:42-44 MSGBut Paul shook off the snake into the fire and was unharmed. The people waited for him to swell up or suddenly drop dead. But when they had waited a long time and saw that he wasn't harmed, they changed their minds and decided he was a god. Acts 28:5-6 NLT For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense. He welcomed all who visited him, boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him. Acts 28:30-31 NLTThe faith and faithfulness of Paul was only outmatched by the faithfulness of our loving, living God.
Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. Acts 16:6-10 NLTThen Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:24-26 NLTThe journey from misguided and broken to divinely directed requires an everyday choice of submission to God!On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. Acts 16:11-15 NLTDivine directions lead to divine encounters that create incredible impact and a heart of gratitude to God! Acts 16:16-22 ESVThey were severely beaten, and thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to make sure they didn't escape. So the jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. Acts 16:23-24 NLTThe inner dungeon illustrates how desperate the enemy is to keep a person of faith from finding freedom. Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Acts 16:25 NLTSuddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. But Paul shouted to him, “Stop! Don't kill yourself! We are all here!” Acts 16:26-28 NLTEven the inner dungeon cannot cut you off from the liberating power and presence of our loving God.The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” Acts 16:29-31 NLTThe next morning the city officials sent the police to tell the jailer, “Let those men go!” So the jailer told Paul, “The city officials have said you and Silas are free to leave. Go in peace.” But Paul replied, “They have publicly beaten us without a trial and put us in prison, and we are Roman citizens. So now they want us to leave secretly? Certainly not! Let them come themselves to release us!” Acts 16:35-37 NLTDon't let the enemy rob you of your opportunity to testify to love of God and the freedom you've found in Him!When the police reported this, the city officials were alarmed to learn that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens and begged them to leave the city. When Paul and Silas left the prison, they returned to the home of Lydia. There they met with the believers and encouraged them once more. Then they left town. Acts 16:38-40 NLT-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. Acts 16:6-10 NLTThen Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:24-26 NLTThe journey from misguided and broken to divinely directed requires an everyday choice of submission to God!On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. Acts 16:11-15 NLTDivine directions lead to divine encounters that create incredible impact and a heart of gratitude to God! Acts 16:16-22 ESVThey were severely beaten, and thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to make sure they didn't escape. So the jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. Acts 16:23-24 NLTThe inner dungeon illustrates how desperate the enemy is to keep a person of faith from finding freedom. Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Acts 16:25 NLTSuddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. But Paul shouted to him, “Stop! Don't kill yourself! We are all here!” Acts 16:26-28 NLTEven the inner dungeon cannot cut you off from the liberating power and presence of our loving God.The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” Acts 16:29-31 NLTThe next morning the city officials sent the police to tell the jailer, “Let those men go!” So the jailer told Paul, “The city officials have said you and Silas are free to leave. Go in peace.” But Paul replied, “They have publicly beaten us without a trial and put us in prison, and we are Roman citizens. So now they want us to leave secretly? Certainly not! Let them come themselves to release us!” Acts 16:35-37 NLTDon't let the enemy rob you of your opportunity to testify to love of God and the freedom you've found in Him!When the police reported this, the city officials were alarmed to learn that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens and begged them to leave the city. When Paul and Silas left the prison, they returned to the home of Lydia. There they met with the believers and encouraged them once more. Then they left town. Acts 16:38-40 NLT-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Now Saul was still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord. He went to the high priest and requested letters from him to the synagogues in Damascus. Acts 9:1-2 CSB I admit that I didn't always hold to this position, for a while I thought it was my duty to oppose this Jesus of Nazareth with all my might. Backed with the full authority of the high priests, I threw these believers, I had no idea they were God's people!, into the Jerusalem jail right and left, and whenever it came to a vote, I voted for their execution. I stormed through their meeting places, bullying them into cursing Jesus, a one-man terror obsessed with obliterating these people. And then I started on the towns outside Jerusalem. Acts 26:9-11 MSGBeing passionately determined doesn't make you wrong, but doesn't make you right either! As he traveled and was nearing Damascus, a light from heaven suddenly flashed around him. Falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul said. “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting,” he replied. Acts 9:3-5 CSBReal repentance leads to incredible redemption and starts with the recognition that Jesus is Lord. I want you to get up and enter the city. In the city you'll be told what to do next. His companions stood there dumbstruck, they could hear the sound, but couldn't see anyone, while Saul, picking himself up off the ground, found himself stone-blind. They had to take him by the hand and lead him into Damascus. He continued blind for three days. He ate nothing, drank nothing. Acts 9:6-9 MSGYou may manage to minimize or even dismiss the evidentiary truth of God's word, but you will find difficult to quantify and impossible to dismiss the impact of a Divine encounter. “What could I do, King Agrippa? I couldn't just walk away from a vision like that! I became an obedient believer on the spot. Acts 26:19 MSG Obedient surrender is the second step on our repentant journey to restoration and one that can't be overlooked! There was a disciple in Damascus by the name of Ananias. The Master spoke to him in a vision: “Ananias.” “Yes, Master?” he answered. “Get up and go over to Straight Street. Ask at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus. His name is Saul. He's there praying. He has just had a dream in which he saw a man named Ananias enter the house and lay hands on him so he could see again.” Acts 9:10-12 MSGYou do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalm 51:16-17 NLTYou can't earn, but you must turn, if you want to follow your way back to God's great plan for your life!So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Instantly something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he regained his sight. Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is indeed the Son of God!”Acts 9:17-20 NLTGod has the miraculous ability to restore our sight and redeem and redirect our destiny and determination. Then Barnabas took him under his wing. He introduced him to the apostles and stood up for him, told them how Saul had seen and spoken to the Master on the Damascus Road and how in Damascus itself he had laid his life on the line with his bold preaching in Jesus' name. After that he was accepted as one of them, going in and out of Jerusalem with no questions asked, uninhibited as he preached in the Master's name. Acts 9:27-30 MSGFor I am the least of the apostles, not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 CSBThe redemptive impact God's love has on a truly repentant heart is the greatest of all life's miraculous wonders! -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Now Saul was still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord. He went to the high priest and requested letters from him to the synagogues in Damascus. Acts 9:1-2 CSB I admit that I didn't always hold to this position, for a while I thought it was my duty to oppose this Jesus of Nazareth with all my might. Backed with the full authority of the high priests, I threw these believers, I had no idea they were God's people!, into the Jerusalem jail right and left, and whenever it came to a vote, I voted for their execution. I stormed through their meeting places, bullying them into cursing Jesus, a one-man terror obsessed with obliterating these people. And then I started on the towns outside Jerusalem. Acts 26:9-11 MSGBeing passionately determined doesn't make you wrong, but doesn't make you right either! As he traveled and was nearing Damascus, a light from heaven suddenly flashed around him. Falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul said. “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting,” he replied. Acts 9:3-5 CSBReal repentance leads to incredible redemption and starts with the recognition that Jesus is Lord. I want you to get up and enter the city. In the city you'll be told what to do next. His companions stood there dumbstruck, they could hear the sound, but couldn't see anyone, while Saul, picking himself up off the ground, found himself stone-blind. They had to take him by the hand and lead him into Damascus. He continued blind for three days. He ate nothing, drank nothing. Acts 9:6-9 MSGYou may manage to minimize or even dismiss the evidentiary truth of God's word, but you will find difficult to quantify and impossible to dismiss the impact of a Divine encounter. “What could I do, King Agrippa? I couldn't just walk away from a vision like that! I became an obedient believer on the spot. Acts 26:19 MSG Obedient surrender is the second step on our repentant journey to restoration and one that can't be overlooked! There was a disciple in Damascus by the name of Ananias. The Master spoke to him in a vision: “Ananias.” “Yes, Master?” he answered. “Get up and go over to Straight Street. Ask at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus. His name is Saul. He's there praying. He has just had a dream in which he saw a man named Ananias enter the house and lay hands on him so he could see again.” Acts 9:10-12 MSGYou do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalm 51:16-17 NLTYou can't earn, but you must turn, if you want to follow your way back to God's great plan for your life!So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Instantly something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he regained his sight. Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is indeed the Son of God!”Acts 9:17-20 NLTGod has the miraculous ability to restore our sight and redeem and redirect our destiny and determination. Then Barnabas took him under his wing. He introduced him to the apostles and stood up for him, told them how Saul had seen and spoken to the Master on the Damascus Road and how in Damascus itself he had laid his life on the line with his bold preaching in Jesus' name. After that he was accepted as one of them, going in and out of Jerusalem with no questions asked, uninhibited as he preached in the Master's name. Acts 9:27-30 MSGFor I am the least of the apostles, not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 CSBThe redemptive impact God's love has on a truly repentant heart is the greatest of all life's miraculous wonders! -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --They chose the following: Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them. So God's message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too. Acts 6:5-7 NLT#1 Pain and Persecution become Passion and Compassion when given to God.Acts 6:8-11 ESV The choice to disregard the obvious leads to deception and destruction. Acts 7:51-60 NLTPain and persecution fuel Godly passion and compassion when our lives and journeys are surrendered to Him.Acts 8:4-6 NLT#2 Godly purity is key to accessing Godly power A man named Simon had previously practiced sorcery in that city and amazed the Samaritan people, while claiming to be somebody great. They all paid attention to him, from the least of them to the greatest, and they said, “This man is called the Great Power of God.” They were attentive to him because he had amazed them with his sorceries for a long time. But when they believed Philip, as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. Even Simon himself believed. And after he was baptized. Acts 8:9-13 NLTThis worlds superficial provisions pale in comparison to the supernatural power found in the purposes and plans of God.When Simon saw that the Spirit was given when the apostles laid their hands on people, he offered them money to buy this power. “Let me have this power, too,” he exclaimed, “so that when I lay my hands on people, they will receive the Holy Spirit!” But Peter replied, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought! You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.” “Pray to the Lord for me,” Simon exclaimed, “that these terrible things you've said won't happen to me!” Acts 8:18-24 NLTThe pure in heart have access to a power the prideful will never see, no matter how great their gifts or glory. As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, “Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.” Acts 8:26 NLT#3 The Prophetic empowers ImpactSo he started out, and he met the treasurer of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace, the queen of Ethiopia. The eunuch had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and he was now returning. Seated in his carriage, he was reading aloud from the book of the prophet Isaiah. - The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and walk along beside the carriage.” Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” And he urged Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him. The passage of Scripture he had been reading was this: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter. And as a lamb is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. He was humiliated and received no justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.” The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, was the prophet talking about himself or someone else?” Acts 8:27-34 NLT Prophetic impact requires eyes that are open and a heart that is His.So beginning with this same Scripture, Philip told him the Good News about Jesus. As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look! There's some water! Why can't I be baptized?” He ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away. The eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing. Meanwhile, Philip found himself farther north at the town of Azotus. He preached the Good News there and in every town along the way until he came to Caesarea. Acts 8:35-40 NLTHumble obedience redeems the pain, unlocks God's power, and positions the willing for wisdom and impact. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --They chose the following: Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them. So God's message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too. Acts 6:5-7 NLT#1 Pain and Persecution become Passion and Compassion when given to God.Acts 6:8-11 ESV The choice to disregard the obvious leads to deception and destruction. Acts 7:51-60 NLTPain and persecution fuel Godly passion and compassion when our lives and journeys are surrendered to Him.Acts 8:4-6 NLT#2 Godly purity is key to accessing Godly power A man named Simon had previously practiced sorcery in that city and amazed the Samaritan people, while claiming to be somebody great. They all paid attention to him, from the least of them to the greatest, and they said, “This man is called the Great Power of God.” They were attentive to him because he had amazed them with his sorceries for a long time. But when they believed Philip, as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. Even Simon himself believed. And after he was baptized. Acts 8:9-13 NLTThis worlds superficial provisions pale in comparison to the supernatural power found in the purposes and plans of God.When Simon saw that the Spirit was given when the apostles laid their hands on people, he offered them money to buy this power. “Let me have this power, too,” he exclaimed, “so that when I lay my hands on people, they will receive the Holy Spirit!” But Peter replied, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought! You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.” “Pray to the Lord for me,” Simon exclaimed, “that these terrible things you've said won't happen to me!” Acts 8:18-24 NLTThe pure in heart have access to a power the prideful will never see, no matter how great their gifts or glory. As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, “Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.” Acts 8:26 NLT#3 The Prophetic empowers ImpactSo he started out, and he met the treasurer of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace, the queen of Ethiopia. The eunuch had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and he was now returning. Seated in his carriage, he was reading aloud from the book of the prophet Isaiah. - The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and walk along beside the carriage.” Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” And he urged Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him. The passage of Scripture he had been reading was this: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter. And as a lamb is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. He was humiliated and received no justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.” The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, was the prophet talking about himself or someone else?” Acts 8:27-34 NLT Prophetic impact requires eyes that are open and a heart that is His.So beginning with this same Scripture, Philip told him the Good News about Jesus. As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look! There's some water! Why can't I be baptized?” He ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away. The eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing. Meanwhile, Philip found himself farther north at the town of Azotus. He preached the Good News there and in every town along the way until he came to Caesarea. Acts 8:35-40 NLTHumble obedience redeems the pain, unlocks God's power, and positions the willing for wisdom and impact. -------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church
But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, “ Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach. Acts 5:17-21 ESVThe goodness of God is many times over, greater than any opposition a person of faith will ever face. When the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, “We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside.” Acts 5:21-23 ESV Even when my situation seemingly remains the same, God can still change me and set me free. Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. Then someone arrived with startling news: “The men you put in jail are standing in the Temple, teaching the people!” Acts 5:25 MSGFreedom doesn't make you immune to attack, but it does make it difficult for temptation to target you.The chief and his police went and got them, but they handled them gently, fearful that the people would riot and turn on them. Bringing them back, they stood them before the High Council. - - The Chief Priest said, “Didn't we give you strict orders not to teach in Jesus' name? And here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are trying your best to blame us for the death of this man.” Peter and the apostles answered, “It's necessary to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:26-29 MSGDon't allow the hypocritical perspectives of others to move you off of believing and applying God's truth.The Spirit makes it clear that as time goes on, some are going to give up on the faith and chase after demonic illusions put forth by professional liars. These liars have lied so well and for so long that they've lost their capacity for truth. 1 Timothy 4:1-2 MSGConsistently rejecting God will cause you to lose the ability to discern truth, even when it's obvious.I insist, and God backs me up on this, that there be no going along with the crowd, the empty-headed, mindless crowd. They've refused for so long to deal with God that they've lost touch not only with God but with reality itself. They can't think straight anymore. Feeling no pain, they let themselves go in sexual obsession, addicted to every sort of perversion. Ephesians 4:17-19 MSGThe God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail.” Acts 5:30-32 MSGThe emboldened ability to embody and share the life changing message of Jesus has always followed faithfulness to His word and will. When they heard this, the high council was furious and decided to kill them. But one member, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was an expert in religious law and respected by all the people, stood up and ordered that the men be sent outside the council chamber for a while. Then he said to his colleagues, “Men of Israel, take care what you are planning to do to these men! Some time ago there was that fellow Theudas, who pretended to be someone great. About 400 others joined him, but he was killed, and all his followers went their various ways. The whole movement came to nothing. After him, at the time of the census, there was Judas of Galilee. He got people to follow him, but he was killed, too, and all his followers were scattered. “So my advice is, leave these men alone. Let them go. If they are planning and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!” The others accepted his advice. They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go. The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.” Acts 5:33-42 NLTLife's most immutable reality is the truth and love of Jesus is and the never ending impact He has on those who hope in Him!
But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, “ Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach. Acts 5:17-21 ESVThe goodness of God is many times over, greater than any opposition a person of faith will ever face. When the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, “We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside.” Acts 5:21-23 ESV Even when my situation seemingly remains the same, God can still change me and set me free. Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. Then someone arrived with startling news: “The men you put in jail are standing in the Temple, teaching the people!” Acts 5:25 MSGFreedom doesn't make you immune to attack, but it does make it difficult for temptation to target you.The chief and his police went and got them, but they handled them gently, fearful that the people would riot and turn on them. Bringing them back, they stood them before the High Council. - - The Chief Priest said, “Didn't we give you strict orders not to teach in Jesus' name? And here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are trying your best to blame us for the death of this man.” Peter and the apostles answered, “It's necessary to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:26-29 MSGDon't allow the hypocritical perspectives of others to move you off of believing and applying God's truth.The Spirit makes it clear that as time goes on, some are going to give up on the faith and chase after demonic illusions put forth by professional liars. These liars have lied so well and for so long that they've lost their capacity for truth. 1 Timothy 4:1-2 MSGConsistently rejecting God will cause you to lose the ability to discern truth, even when it's obvious.I insist, and God backs me up on this, that there be no going along with the crowd, the empty-headed, mindless crowd. They've refused for so long to deal with God that they've lost touch not only with God but with reality itself. They can't think straight anymore. Feeling no pain, they let themselves go in sexual obsession, addicted to every sort of perversion. Ephesians 4:17-19 MSGThe God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail.” Acts 5:30-32 MSGThe emboldened ability to embody and share the life changing message of Jesus has always followed faithfulness to His word and will. When they heard this, the high council was furious and decided to kill them. But one member, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was an expert in religious law and respected by all the people, stood up and ordered that the men be sent outside the council chamber for a while. Then he said to his colleagues, “Men of Israel, take care what you are planning to do to these men! Some time ago there was that fellow Theudas, who pretended to be someone great. About 400 others joined him, but he was killed, and all his followers went their various ways. The whole movement came to nothing. After him, at the time of the census, there was Judas of Galilee. He got people to follow him, but he was killed, too, and all his followers were scattered. “So my advice is, leave these men alone. Let them go. If they are planning and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!” The others accepted his advice. They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go. The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.” Acts 5:33-42 NLTLife's most immutable reality is the truth and love of Jesus is and the never ending impact He has on those who hope in Him!
And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness. Acts 4:29-32 NLTIt is Holy Spirit who empowers our believing, obeying, and proclaiming the truth of Jesus! The whole congregation of believers was united as one, one heart, one mind! They didn't even claim ownership of their own possessions. No one said, “That's mine; you can't have it.” They shared everything. Acts 4:32 MSG They began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them. Jesus told them, “In this world the kings and great men lord it over their people, yet they are called ‘friends of the people.' But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course. But not here! For I am among you as one who serves. Luke 22:24-27 NLTThe apostles gave powerful witness to the resurrection of Jesus, and grace was on all of them. Acts 4:33 MSGFor he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14 NLT Anytime someone really chooses the light and life God calls them to the world around them will be changed! For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles. Acts 4:36-37 NLTA characteristic we are meant to model from the life of Christ is His submission to the will of God. But a man named Ananias and his wife, Sapphira, conniving in this with him, sold a piece of land, secretly kept part of the price for himself, and then brought the rest to the apostles and made an offering of it. Peter said, “Ananias, how did Satan get you to lie to the Holy Spirit and secretly keep back part of the price of the field? Before you sold it, it was all yours, and after you sold it, the money was yours to do with as you wished. So what got into you to pull a trick like this? You didn't lie to men but to God.” Ananias, when he heard those words, fell down dead. That put the fear of God into everyone who heard of it. The younger men went right to work and wrapped him up, then carried him out and buried him. Not more than three hours later, his wife, knowing nothing of what had happened, came in. Peter said, “Tell me, were you given this price for your field?” “Yes,” she said, “that price.” Peter responded, “What's going on here that you connived to conspire against the Spirit of the Master? The men who buried your husband are at the door, and you're next.” No sooner were the words out of his mouth than she also fell down, dead. When the young men returned they found her body. They carried her out and buried her beside her husband. Acts 5:1-10 MSGDeception is always wrong, and motive always matters to God and will be rightly rewarded by Him.By this time the whole church and, in fact, everyone who heard of these things had a healthy respect for God. They knew God was not to be trifled with. Through the work of the apostles, many God-signs were set up among the people, many wonderful things done. They all met regularly and in remarkable harmony on the Temple porch named after Solomon. But even though people admired them a lot, outsiders were wary about joining them. On the other hand, those who put their trust in the Master were added right and left, men and women both. Acts 5:11-14 MSGOne last takeaway and a poem will go here…
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