AgapeSLO

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Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

The God Who Is Faithful — Sermon SummaryEvery believer reaches a moment when faith is tested—when prayers feel delayed, obedience feels unnoticed, and trust feels costly. In those moments, Scripture reminds us that God does not change. He is faithful, not because of our strength, but because of His nature.God describes Himself as “abounding in love and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6–7). The Hebrew word for faithfulness, 'emet, means stable, reliable, and trustworthy—something you can lean on with confidence. This same word describes Moses' steady hands in battle (Exodus 17) and the trustworthy leaders of Israel (Exodus 18:21).Throughout Scripture, God proves His faithfulness again and again. Abraham trusted God's promise despite impossible circumstances, and his faith was credited as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). Israel believed God after the Red Sea (Exodus 14:31) but struggled to trust Him when fear outweighed promise—teaching us that faith is not believing God exists, but believing God is faithful.David trusted God in the face of giants and “walked in 'emet” before the Lord (1 Kings 3:6). God promised David a kingdom established forever (2 Samuel 7:16), even when Israel later questioned God's faithfulness in exile (Psalm 89:49).The New Testament answers that question through Jesus. Introduced as the Son of David and the Son of Abraham (Matthew 1:1), Jesus is the fulfillment of every promise. Through Him, God confirms His faithfulness to His covenant (Romans 15:8–9). Jesus is God's faithfulness in human form—the unshakable Rock and eternal King.Because God is faithful, His promises still stand, He will not abandon His people, and our future is secure. Our response is trust—to he'emin, to “amen” God—leaning our full weight on the One who is completely reliable. The story of Scripture, and the story of our lives, is the story of the God who remains faithful from beginning to end.

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THE GOD WHO IS… Overflowing with Loyal LoveHave you ever filled out a job application and they say “tell us about yourself – describe your personality ; your core values”. You know what you write down is going to reveal whether you are qualified or the right fit for the job…  If you started out, “I'm basically a good guy… sharp, creative, personable, responsible…. BUT don't mess with me before my coffee in the morning – whoa – I can be grumpy and moody… Or Im pretty organized, but don't look in my closet… Or I'm patient – I get along with people but there's things that push my buttons… whoa unto you if you do… THE BEAR COMES OUT OF THE CAVE…This would not be recommended if you are looking for a job in HRSociologists say, there are over 4,000 religions in the world – cut and pasted from ancient beliefs and creeds as well as modern day thought…. Many of them with the same question – WHO ARE YOU GOD? Today – we are going to look again about what God says about HimselfWE ARE IN SERIES – THE GOD WHO IS…Looking at the history of the Children of Israel – the IsraelitesGod has chosen them to reveal Himself to the whole world – His nature, His desires, His eternal plan.He promises to keep a covenant with them that He made to their forefathers 1000 years prior – that He would be there God… Fast forward – the foundation of that covenant is now extended through Christ to you and me – That He would be Our GodAs God begins to form and develop the Israelites into His People – essentially Moses asks the same questions in the book of Exodus 33 _ He asks God to reveal Himself  -  in Exodus 34… Only a few times in Scripture – God describes Himself – His character and nature – our anchor text is the moment when God reveals His own character:FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTUREExodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and graciousGod, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.We've looked at God's “Self Description:Compassionate — a God moved in His deepest being by our pain.Gracious — a God who gives delightfully undeserved gifts.Slow to anger — a God who is patient and does not rush to judgment.Today we come to the fourth phrase:“abounding in love” — or as we'll say it: “overflowing with loyal love.”LET'S TALK ABOUT “LOYAL LOVE”INTRODUCTION — WHEN SOMEONE STAYSMost of us know what it feels like to wonder if someone will stay.You messed up in a relationship…You failed to follow through on a promise…You disappointed someone who believed in you…And deep down, you're asking:“Are you still here? Or is this the moment you walk away?”Think about those rare moments when instead of walking away, that personlooks you in the eye and says:“I'm hurt - I'm honest about that…but I'm not going anywhere.I made a promise, and I intend to keep it.”That is more than forgiveness.  That is more than a second chance.That is a kind of stubborn grace — a love that doesn't just pardon you, it stays with you.In Scripture, that stubborn, promise-keeping, staying love is not just something God does…It is something God is.I. THE HEBREW WORD —KHESED חֶסֶ (Khawsed) The word translated “love” here is the Hebrew word khesed (חֶסֶד).KHESED IS ONE OF THE RICHEST, HARDEST-TO-TRANSLATE WORDS IN THE ENTIRE BIBLE.NO SINGLE ENGLISH WORD CAPTURES IT.It combines these qualities:Love – genuine affection and care.Generosity – going above and beyond what's required.Enduring commitment – a promise that sticks, even when it hurts.So you'll see it translated in Bible versions as:“steadfast love”“great love”“unfailing love”“lovingkindness”“mercy”“loyal love”Khesed describes promise-keeping loyalty motivated by deep personalcare.How do we contrast it to our ”natural love”, our transactional love? Not contract.Not cold obligation.Not “I'll do my part if you do yours.”Khesed is:“I'm not leaving.I'm not quitting.I'm not withdrawing my heart.”My commitment is not based on your performance, but based on my character of keeping vows, looking passed flaws; being quick to forgive; knowing your potential, trusting your growth; and believing the best;DO YOU HAVE ANY FRIENDS LIKE THAT? COVENANT FRIENDS? I'M BLESSED TO HAVE SOME IN THIS ROOM … Oris Martin's memorial – his daughter was paying tribute to her dad – About his “Loyal Love To Her”HE SAID – “I ll always have your back” MORE DESCRIPTIVE  - ‘I'LL HAVE YOUR BACK LIKE A TIGHT BRA STRAP” (Im going to archive this) II. RUTH — The Lord gave us a s story to reveal it - A HUMAN PICTURE OF KHESEDOne of the clearest illustrations of khesed is found in the OT book of Ruth.Ruth is a Moabite woman from an outside tribe – she  married into an Israelite family.Her husband dies.His brother dies. – according to custom – next in line to provideHer father-in-law dies – last line of supportAll that's left are three widows: Naomi is Ruth's mother-in -law… left with the other two widowed daughters-in-law.Naomi has nothing left to offer.No income.No security.No future.She tells Ruth“Go back to your people. Start over. There's nothing for you with me.”From a human perspective, the logical thing is to leave.But Ruth does the opposite.She says, in essence:“Where you go, I'll go.Your people will be my people.Your God will be my God.I will stay with you—until death.”She binds her future to Naomi's empty future.She chooses the hard, costly road of staying.And as the story unfolds and people watch Ruth keep this promise, they call her faithfulness acts of khesed (see Ruth 3:10–11).Ruth's khesed is not based on Naomi's usefulness, worth, or ability to repay.It is a window into Ruth's character.She is a person of loyal love.She is a person of generous, promise-keeping commitment.And that is what khesed looks like in human form.III. GOD'S KHESED TO JACOB — LOYAL LOVE TO A DECEIVERBut as inspiring as Ruth is, the Bible is clear: No one shows more khesed than God.From earlier generations - Take Jacob – son of IssacJacob is not a moral hero.He lies.He deceives his father.He cheats his brother.He manipulates situations for his own advantage.Yet God chooses Jacob.God repeats to him the promise He gave to Jacob's  grandfather- Abraham:“I'm going to bless you, give you many descendants, and through your family I will bless the nations.”Jacob runs away in fear and shame.For twenty years he lives in exile.Then, on the way back home, terrified of facing his brother, Esau – whom he has cheated for his birthright, Jacob prays:Genesis 32:10 (ESV)“I am not worthy of the least of all the deeds of khesed (steadfast love) and all the faithfulness that you have shown to your servant, for with only my staff I crossed this Jordan, and now I have become two camps.”Jacob is right.He is not worthy.But that's the point.God's khesed was never based on Jacob's worth.It was never “If you perform, I'll stay.”It was always “I have chosen you, and I am committed to My promise.”God's khesed is a display of God's generous loyalty, not Jacob's behavior.IV. GOD'S KHESED TO ISRAEL — HE KEEPS RESCUINGGod's khesed continues into the story of Jacob's descendants—Israel.They end up enslaved in Egypt for hundreds of years.We're told that God “remembers His covenant” with Abraham and Jacob.To “remember” in Hebrew doesn't mean God forgot.It means God is about to act in faithfulness to His promise.So God defeats Egypt, raises up Moses, and leads Israel toward the promisedland.In the song of Moses, after the Red Sea, they sing:Exodus 15:13 (ESV) “You have led in your steadfast love (khesed) the people whom you have redeemed…”Their liberation is called an act of khesed because God is keeping His word.But the story doesn't stay triumphant for long.On the way to the promised land, Israel sees the nations around them, and feargrips their hearts.They doubt that God can protect them.They talk about appointing a new leader to take them back to slavery in Egypt.They are ready to kill Moses.LET THAT SINK IN:God has rescued them.God has provided for them.God has revealed Himself to them. And they want to go back to bondage.God is understandably hurt and angry.But in Numbers 14, Moses intercedes:Numbers 14:19 (NIV) “In accordance with your great love (khesed), forgive the sin of these people…”Moses doesn't base his request on Israel's behavior.He bases it on God's character.“God, be who You are. Do what is consistent with Your khesed.”And God does. He forgives.He recommits Himself to a people who don't want to be committed to Him.V. HUMAN LOVE VS. GOD'S LOYAL LOVEIn the Bible, God is loyal and loving for no other reason than that's who He is.Of course, God desires His people to respond with khesed in return—to love Him truly, to keep covenant, to love others with the same loyal love.But even when they don't… God's khesed remains.The prophet Hosea says:Hosea 6:4 - Israel's khesed is “like the morning mist” —here one moment, gone the next.Our loyalty is often fragile.Our commitment is often temporary.Our promises are often conditional.But God's khesed is enduring.That's why Psalm 136 opens with:“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good…”And then repeats 26 times:“for His khesed (steadfast love) endures forever.”Over creation.Over history.Over rebellion.Over enemies.Over everything.God's loyal love outlasts human unfaithfulness.VI. JESUS — THE FULLNESS OF GOD'S LOYAL LOVEAfter centuries of Israel breaking their covenant,and after humanity's long history of violence, idolatry, and death…God still keeps His promise in the most dramatic way possible:He becomes human.In Jesus, God binds Himself to us in a new and deeper way.The New Testament writers reach for words like:agapē (ἀγάπη) – self-giving, sacrificial love.eleos (ἔλεος) – mercy, compassion in action.charis (χάρις) – gracious gift, undeserved favor.All of these overlap with the Old Testament idea of khesed.In John 1, we're told that Jesus comes “full of grace and truth.”That phrase “grace and truth” echoes the Hebrew pairing khesed we'emet —“loyal love and faithfulness.”The early followers of Jesus looked at Him and said:“In Him, we have encountered the God of Israelwho is full of loyal love and faithfulness.”Jesus is:The ultimate loyal and loving human,The perfect image of God's khesed in a human life,The one who loves “to the end” (John 13:1).In His life, death, and resurrection, God opens a new future for us and allcreation.Not because we earned it…But because this is who God is:Generous.Loving.Eternally loyal to His promises.VII. WHEN GOD'S LOYAL LOVE TOUCHES USWhen we truly experience the purity and power of God's loyal love shownthrough Jesus, it doesn't leave us neutral.It compels us.It moves us.It reorients us.We begin to reimagine:Why we love God.How we love people.What commitment looks like in a world of easy exits.Because if this kind of khesed is in God's character,it should begin to show up in our character.VIII. HOW WE SHOW KHESED BACK TO GOD AND OTHERS1. Khesed toward God — measured and revealed in faithful devotion, not occasional attention.If God has bound Himself to us in covenant love, we respond not with “casual spirituality,” but with whole-hearted devotion.Choosing Him when it's costly.Trusting Him when we don't see the way.Obeying Him when it would be easier to compromise.We don't earn His khesed by doing this.We reflect His khesed by doing this.2. Khesed toward people — “Staying” love in a Leaving world. We live in a culture of:ghosting,cancelling,quitting,disposable relationships. God calls His people to a different way:In marriage: keeping vows when feelings fluctuate.In friendship: showing up when there's nothing to gain.In church: staying engaged, serving, forgiving, building, instead ofbouncing at the first offense.In community: caring for the vulnerable when they can't pay you back.ILLUST: MARRIAGE - I CHOOSE YOU… OVER AND OVER AGAIN – 45 YEARSIn marriage, I chose you and I choose you againWhen I first begin to date… sitting in her living room – 2 phone calls from different guys – no cell phones or voicemails… I think- shes got a few choices  Then she tells me a “friend” from UCSB is coming down… wants to go to dinnerFine.. no problem… you are friends… “God, if Jan is the one it will all work out”… sitting there watching ‘sports center:… How good of friends are they?  AM I THE CHOSEN ONE? - “God if he tries to kiss her – take a coal from your altar and scorch his lips”A desire to be chosen… our commitment to that choice has protected our vows for 45 years   Khesed IS COVENENTAL LOVE . IT says:“Even when you're empty, I won't withdraw.Even when this is hard, I won't run.Even when you have little to offer, I'll keep showing up.”Not because people always deserve it, but because God is forming His loyal love in us.3. Khesed toward the undeserving — because that's how God loved us.Remember Jacob.Remember Israel.Remember you.We love with khesed not because people have earned it,but because God extended it to us first.“We love because He first loved us.”Story –  I'll call him “ Bryan” (Ryan Inclan) – from Passover Days- 25 years agoPaul Rogers from Intervarsity invited himBryan - Struggling w faith and as much with identity and habitsPaul moved – asked me if I would stay in touch with Bryan – and asked if he could give Bryan my number – I naively said “yes” not really knowing what that would mean - That was probably 25 years ago… Bryan died about a month ago now. Bryan moved to the Bay Area - fought major Bipolar Disorder along with several other Psychological disorders,He'd call up, friendly, hopeful. In a small group - happyThen weeks later - Midnight texts – desperate, self -hating… just been online doing things in chat rooms – struggling with sexual identity… pray for meI'd leave scripture messages – reinforcing this is Who You Are Now… encouraging him to connect with a church – he tried several churches – goes good – then collapses; there was always an enemy – somebody hurt him; offended him; doesn't understand himThrough the years - Dad dies; mother dies… desperationPaul & I drove to SF to get him in a psych hospitalThen Weeks – no communication… maybe he's better… connected with a local group… no… in relapse… hiding… ashamedTwo months later -  manic weeks – all is better… I found a mens group – im praying againMANY TIMES – Im done… You are way beyond my comfort zone… And my pay gradeSomehow we would re-connect – late night  1 hr caounseling calls … Jan would shake her headHe got liver cancer about 6 months ago… Me and a group of people on a Text thread – praying emoji's, heart emoji's… encouraging words and prayersHe died in peace, believing – GOSPELS – Guys tearing open a roof to lower a friend down to be healed.  For 25 years – tearing off guilt, shame, mental torment in short seasons of relief…Bryan finally made it – now he is healedIX. PRACTICAL QUESTIONS FOR OUR HEARTSWhere am I tempted to walk away instead of stay?Where am I loving only as long as it benefits me?Where is God calling me to reflect His loyal love by keeping a promise,extending grace, or refusing to give up?And deeper still:Where have I underestimated God's loyalty to me?Some of you live like God is one failure away from leaving.In Exodus 34 and the whole story of Scripture shout:“His khesed endures forever.”His love Is LOYAL – so much so that:He may discipline. He may confront. But all for your best interestHe may hand you over to the consequences of your choices for a season, so we see clearly the destructive paths we are on.He does not abandon His promises to be with you and guide you through.He does not abandon His people. He is an Everlasting Father.He does not abandon His plan of redemption – toward you or anyone who calls upon HimCONCLUSION — THE GOD WHO WILL NOT LET GOSo when God says of Himself:“I am abounding in love…”He is saying:“I am overflowing with khesed—with loyal, generous, enduring love.I keep My promises.I stay.I do not quit on what I have begun.”Jesus is the ultimate proof of that.He stepped into our story.He took on our flesh.He bore our sin.He rose with new life.He promised to be with us “always, even to the end of the age.”This is THE GOD WHO IS OVERFLOWING WITH LOYAL LOVE.And if that is who He is, then by the power of His Spirit, that is who He is shaping us to become.ALTAR CALL… He is loyal in his love for us… Even when we aren't feeling itMaybe this is new to you – this foreign kind of unconditional love – it was for me – works basedMaybe you sense it right now – he does love you; He wants you to know him… and enter into this Loyal Love we are talking about.You might say – “I'll never be able to keep my end of the deal… I‘ve got too much stuff going on… Yea – but I can say “you've never been loved like this before…” It's transformativeIt starts w Romans 10:9-10 – a vow Altar Call – side room you sense He's pulled back or away from you… But I would ask… Have you pulled back from HimThere are places and things He won't condone or endorse… again It's about love… Strength to break free and walk it out..As we close – make a commitment to come up hereNext time, we'll look at the fifth trait in this powerful description:“THE GOD WHO IS FAITHFUL.” But today, may we rest in His loyal love,and may we mirror that loyal loveto a world that desperately needs to see it.  

THE GOD WHO IS…Slow To AngerINTRODUCTION — WHEN GOD DIDN'T REACT LIKE YOU EXPECTEDHave you ever looked back on a moment in your life—a season, a decision, a rebellion—and thought: “I'm shocked God didn't give up on me.”Maybe it was a failure you repeated more times than you want to admit.Maybe it was a habit you just couldn't break. Maybe it was a time you knew better… but didn't do better. Maybe it was a moment where you assumed God must be frustrated, disappointed, even angry.But instead of God reacting in hot anger… He responded with patience.Instead of the “strike you down” version of God that some of us grew up hearing about… You found a God who slowed His steps, softened His tone, and continued to walk with you.That is not weakness.That is not God overlooking sin.That is not God compromising His holiness.That is the character of God as revealed by God Himself.Today we come to the third phrase in the most repeated self-description God gives in the entire Bible:FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTUREExodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.[FOR SO MANY PEOPLE…] this is the phrase that surprises them most: “Slow to anger.” Let's dive in to what God really means when He says this.I. THE HEBREW PHRASE — 'EREK 'APPAYIM (“LONG OF NOSE”)The Hebrew phrase translated “slow to anger” is: 'erekh 'appayim (אֶרֶךְ אַפַּיִם)Literally: “long of nostrils” or “long-nosed.”Now, before you picture God with an exaggerated cartoon nose… This is a Hebrew idiom built on the physical experience of anger.In Hebrew:“angry” = “nose burns hot”“deep anger” = “hot nostrils”When Potiphar believed Joseph tried to sleep with his wife, Scripture says:“his nose burned hot.”When someone's anger flares, their face gets hot.[SO IN THE HEBREW IMAGINATION…] A patient person is “long-nosed.” It takes a very long time for their anger to heat up.This is why Proverbs 19:11 says: Proverbs 19:11 (NIV) A person's wisdom yields patience; it is to one's glory to overlook an offense.”Hebrew: “A person's wisdom makes them long of nose.”Wisdom lengthens your fuse.And God—according to God—is THE MOST “LONG-NOSED,” PATIENT, SLOW-TO-ANGER BEING IN THE UNIVERSE.II. GOD DOES GET ANGRY — BUT NOT LIKE WE DOLet's hit this misconception about God head-on: God is not an angry deity waiting for people to mess up. But the Bible does talk about God getting angry.[SO HOW DO WE…] hold these two truthful statements together?1. GOD'S ANGER IS A METAPHOR, not a mood swing.God doesn't literally have a nose. He doesn't flare His nostrils or turn red. Hebrew uses human body language to communicate divine emotion.2. God's anger is HIS RESPONSE TO HUMAN EVIL, not human inconvenience.God is not irritated. He is not moody. He does not lash out because He lost His temper.God's anger is HIS JUSTICE AND HIS COMPASSION WORKING TOGETHER against anything that destroys His creation.[THINK ABOUT IT…]If you saw a child being bullied and didn't feel anger— something would be wrong with your heart.God feels anger when His world is vandalized by human evil.BUT— God is slow to anger. God gives people an enormous amount of time to change.III. GOD'S PATIENCE IN THE EXODUS STORYLet's look at Exodus 3 and the Ten PlaguesPharaoh enslaves Israel. Pharaoh orders Hebrew baby boys to be thrown into the Nile. Pharaoh crushes God's people under violence and oppression.God sees it; God hears it; God feels it; And God sends Moses. But notice what God does: God gives Pharaoh ten opportunities to repent. TEN.God could have judged him instantly… Instead—God delays judgment.But when Pharaoh continues to harden his heart and finally rides out with his chariots to destroy Israel… God allows Pharaoh's own evil to rebound onto him.The waters that drowned Hebrew children now drown Pharaoh's army.The Bible calls this an act of God's “hot anger.”[BUT DON'T MISS THIS VERY IMPORTANT KEY POINT…] God's anger ARRIVES ONLY AFTER ABUNDANT PATIENCE.And God's judgment is not arbitrary— It is God handing Pharaoh over to the consequences of his own choices.IV. “HANDING OVER” IS THE PRIMARY EXPRESSION OF GOD'S ANGERThis is one of the most important insights in Scripture: **God's anger is not God exploding. God's anger is God withdrawing.**God steps back. God removes Himself as the buffer. God allows people to experience the full weight of their own decisions.You see this pattern everywhere throughout scripture…[IN THE BOOK OF JUDGES…] For hundreds of years Israel repeatedly turns from God, worships idols, oppresses the vulnerable, and abandons the covenant.Scripture repeatedly says things like: Judges 2:14 (ESV) The anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and He gave them over to plunderers…”Not because God abandoned His people— but because God allowed them to taste where their choices were leading.[IN ROMANS 1…] Paul says the same thing three times: “God gave them over…” “God handed them over…” “God turned them over…”This is DIVINE JUDGMENT— not lightning bolts, BUT consequences.God lets people walk the path they insist on walking, even when that path leads to their ruin.BUT… and this is crucial that we understand… Even in judgment, GOD IS PATIENT, LONGING FOR REPENTANCE.[SO LET'S LOOK AT SOME…] KEY TRUTHS ABOUT GOD'S ANGER1. God's anger is ALWAYS A RESPONSE TO HUMAN EVIL.Never to inconvenience. Never to annoyance. Never because He's just “had enough.”2. God's anger FLOWS FROM HIS COMPASSION AND LOYAL LOVE.If God didn't care, He wouldn't get angry.INDIFFERENCE IS THE OPPOSITE OF LOVE, not anger.3. God's anger is HIS REFUSAL TO LET HUMANS SIT FOREVER IN SELF-DESTRUCTION.He will not allow sin to reign unchallenged. He will confront evil because He is good.4. God's anger SERVES HIS MISSION TO RESCUE.Anger is not the end… Restoration is.God's justice CLEARS THE WAY FOR GOD'S MERCY.[AND THIS IS WHERE WE FIND JESUS…]JESUS IS WHERE GOD'S ANGER AND GOD'S LOVE MEET PERFECTLYJesus reveals the heart of God more clearly than anyone.In John 3:16, Jesus says He is going to Jerusalem to die as the expression of God's love for His enemies.That means Jesus does not simply teach about God's patience—JESUS EMBODIES PATIENCE.Jesus stands in the place of people choosing self-destruction and absorbs the consequences of their choices into Himself.On the cross:We see God's anger against sin.On the cross, We see God's love for sinners.On the cross, We see justice and mercy come together.On the cross, We see wrath swallowed by grace.On the cross, We see sinners rescued instead of ruined.THE CROSS is THE ULTIMATE ACT OF THE GOD WHO IS SLOW TO ANGER.[SO THE QUESTION IS…] WHAT DOES “SLOW TO ANGER” MEAN FOR US?1. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD'S PATIENCE IS FAR GREATER THAN OUR FAILURES.If He wasn't done with Pharaoh after nine chances, He isn't done with you after your mistakes.2. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD GIVES TIME FOR REPENTANCE.Every delay in judgment is an invitation to return.3. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD CONFRONTS EVIL, but NEVER IN A WAY THAT CONTRADICTS HIS COMPASSION.Divine anger is always aimed at restoration.4. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, GOD WILL NOT FORCE YOU TO CHOOSE LIFE, but HE WILL LET YOU FEEL WHERE DEATH LEADS.Not because He doesn't love you— but because He loves you too much to lie to you.5. SLOW TO ANGER MEANS, YOU CAN ALWAYS COME HOME, ALWAYS!If you are still breathing, God is still inviting.[SO…] WHAT SHOULD WE DO WITH THIS (How do we apply it to our lives)?Allow God to CONFRONT YOUR DESTRUCTIVE PATTERNS.He is slow to anger… not absent of anger.DON'T MISTAKE GOD'S PATIENCE FOR PERMISSION.Delayed consequences are not divine approval. They are divine mercy.SURRENDER WHAT KEEPS LEADING YOU TO RUIN.Sin always promises life but delivers death. God always promises truth and delivers freedom.Trust the GOD WHOSE ANGER AND LOVE WORK TOGETHER TO SAVE.He is not trying to destroy you. He is trying to rescue you.CONCLUSIONGOD'S PATIENCE IS PART OF GOD'S LOVEWhen God describes Himself as “slow to anger,” He is not saying He never gets angry. He is not saying He doesn't take sin seriously. He is not saying He ignores evil.He is saying: “My anger is PATIENT, PURPOSEFUL, and AIMED AT REDEMPTION.”God delays judgment so He can extend mercy.God holds back wrath so He can offer grace.God gives space for repentance because He loves His creation.This is the heart of THE GOD WHO IS SLOW TO ANGER.And this is THE GOD JESUS REVEALS… the God who takes our self-destructive choices upon Himself so we can receive forgiveness, life, and restoration.

Every one of us in this room has had a moment… a moment when someone showed us kindness we did not earn.Maybe you made a huge mistake at work, and instead of firing you, the boss covered for you. Maybe you hurt someone deeply, and instead of shutting the door, they forgave you. Maybe you received a gift you absolutely could not repay—a scholarship, a meal, a chance, an open door, a second start you didn't deserve. Have you ever had someone treat you… not according to what you deserved, but according to the goodness in their heart?That is grace.But God's grace is something infinitely more. Because God's grace doesn't come from a human heart that might change its mind, second-guess itself, or run out of compassion. God's grace flows from His very nature. It is who He is; It is how He moves; It is how He relates to humanity.[AND JUST LIKE LAST WEEK…] we return to the verse where God reveals His own character in the most repeated self-description in the entire Bible.FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTUREExodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does notleave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.I. THE HEBREW WORD FOR GRACE — KHANUNWhen God revealed Himself to Moses, He said He is “gracious.” The Hebrew word is KHANUN (HA-noon) ḥannûn (חַנּוּן).It comes from the root KHEN (HEN) ḥên (חֵן), a rich and beautiful word that means: Grace; favor; delight; a gift freely given out of pleasure, not obligation. Before “grace” was a theological concept, ḥên was a word used in everyday life. It described beauty that captures the heart, favor that surprises you, and gifts that delight the giver as much as the receiver.II. WHAT ḤÊN LOOKS LIKE IN SCRIPTUREA. ḤÊN as Beauty and DelightIn the Psalms, a gifted poet is described as having “lips of ḥên”—words that are so skillfully crafted they bring delight.--> A beautiful necklace or piece of jewelry is called an “ornament of ḥên” because it draws the eye, stirs joy, and invites delight. So before ḥên was about forgiveness… It was about favor flowing from delight.B. ḤÊN as a Favorable GiftḤên often describes a generous gift given because someone delights in another person.-->In the book of Esther, when Esther approaches King Xerxes at the risk of her life, she calls her request a “plea for ḥên.” And the king grants it—not because she deserved it, but because he favored her. He delighted inher. He showed her grace.C. The Most Extreme ḤÊN — When Someone Deserves the Opposite The deepest form of ḥên is when grace is shown to someone who deserves judgment or distance.--> This is what happens with Jacob and Esau. Jacob deceived Esau. He stole his blessing and ran away for twenty years. When he finally returns, Jacob prays, “May I find ḥên—favor, grace—in your eyes.” Jacob isn't asking for fairness. He's asking for a gift he absolutely does not deserve. And shockingly— Esau gives it. He runs to Jacob. He embraces Jacob. He delights in Jacob. He gives him ḥên.III. GOD SHOWS MORE ḤÊN THAN ANYONEIf humans can occasionally show grace like this… God shows it continually. The story of the golden calf in Exodus makes this clear. God rescues Israel from slavery, loves them, provides for them, and enterscovenant with them. And within weeks—weeks!—they turn and worship a golden idol. God had every right to walk away. Every right to judge. Every right to start over… But Moses intercedes and asks God for something radical: “Lord, give Your people ḥên; Give us a gift we do not deserve; Give us a promise we havenot earned; Give us Yourself… And God says YES. He forgives them; He renews the covenant; He promises Hispresence will go with them. That is ḥannûn. That is gracious.IV. GOD'S GRACE IS CONSISTENT AND RELIABLEThis trait—God's grace—is so reliable that in the Psalms alone, people cry outfor God's ḥên over 40 times: when sick; when oppressed; when guilty; when exiled; when facing enemies; when crushed under their own failures… And every time, God responds out of His character— with grace. The prophets understood this too. Isaiah, speaking to a rebellious nation standing under judgment, looks back to God's past acts of ḥên and confidently declares: “Because God has shown ḥên before, God will show ḥên again.”{BIG KEY} Grace IS NOT God's reaction. GRACE IS GOD'S NATURE.V. THE NEW TESTAMENT WORD FOR GRACE — KHARISBy the time we reach the New Testament, the Greek writers pick up the Hebrewidea of ḥên and expand it with the word charis (χάρις), meaning: gracious gift; unearned favor; generosity freely given.A. JESUS IS THE KHARIS OF GOD in Human FormJohn tells us that Jesus came “full of charis and truth.” Jesus is God's grace embodied. Grace with skin on. Grace walking among us.B. Paul Explains the Power of GraceIn Ephesians 2, Paul says humanity is spiritually dead— cut off from God through our sin. We deserve judgment.But Paul says: “But God, who is rich in mercy… …made us alive by His Kharis.” Grace does not merely forgive you— GRACE RESURRECTS YOU. Grace RESTORES YOU. Grace RECREATES YOU. Grace REVERSES YOUR STORY.C. Grace Is MORE POWERFUL THAN DEATHPaul says the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are gifts— gifts that overpower death itself. Gifts that must simply be received. Grace doesn't make bad people good. Grace MAKES DEAD PEOPLE ALIVE.VI. WHAT MAKES GOD'S GRACE AMAZING? [LET'S SUMMARIZE WHAT THE BIBLE IS SHOWING US…]1. GRACE IS GOD'S DELIGHT, Not His ObligationHe doesn't give grace because He has to. He gives grace because it delights Him. It is His pleasure.2. Grace GOES TO PEOPLE WHO DON'T DESERVE ITGrace doesn't wait until you've fixed your life. Grace meets you where you are.3. Grace RESTORES WHAT SIN DESTROYEDJacob and Esau / Israel and God / Humanity and God / Us and Our failures. Grace rebuilds what sin tore down.4. Grace IS A GIFT YOU RECEIVE, NOT ACHIEVEYou cannot earn Kharis; You cannot perform for ḥên… You can only receive it.5. Grace IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE BECAUSE GOD IS ALWAYS GRACIOUSYou and I will never wake up on a day when God says, “I'm out of grace.”VII. HOW WE EXPERIENCE GOD'S GRACE?Grace is not automatic. It must be received with two simple actions:A. We OWN OUR FAILURESGrace is not permission to hide… It's permission to come home. Grace begins where pretending ends.B. We ASK FOR GRACEThroughout Scripture, when people cry out for ḥên… God responds with Himself.He gives His mercy.He gives His presence.He gives His covenant promises.He gives His Spirit.He gives His Son.Grace is GOD'S GIFT OF GOD.VIII. APPLICATION — WHAT GOD'S GRACE MEANS FOR US?1. GRACE MEANS WE CAN STOP TRYING TO EARN GOD'S APPROVAL. He has already delighted in you.2. GRACE MEANS OUR PAST DOES NOT DISQUALIFY US FROM OUR FUTURE. Jacob's story proves that. Israel's story proves that. Your story, which is completely written from His view, but is still playing out in your view… proves that our past does not disqualify us from our future!3. GRACE MEANS GOD'S GRACE IS STRONGER THAN YOUR WORST MOMENT. Grace doesn't ignore sin. But grace overrules the justified impact of sin.4. GRACE EMPOWERS YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY. Grace isn't just pardon… It's power.GOD GIVES THE GIFT OF HIMSELF[So where do we end today?...] With this truth: When we own our failuresand ask God for grace, His response is consistent and generous. Because God does not merely give grace— GOD IS GRACIOUS.He gives: Himself; His life; His presence; His love; His Spirit; His Son; And a futurewe could never earn.This is THE GOD WHO IS GRACIOUS.

INTRODUCTION — “THE FIRST FELT NEED IS TO KNOW ME.”Every year—like many pastors—I usually start January with a “felt needs” message series. Something to help us get our feet under us for a new year: stress, relationships, habits, purpose, prayer, identity… the things we're feeling right now.But as I was preparing for the first series of 2026, I heard the Holy Spirit speak something that immediately captured my attention. “The first felt need is to know Me.”I really believe The Lord is communicating to us, “The greatest need of My people is not a change in circumstances, but the greatest need of My people is clarity about who I AM.”If you don't know who He is… You won't trust Him.If you don't trust Him… You won't obey Him.If you don't obey Him…You won't experience the life He promised.[SO THIS YEAR…] before we talk about our needs, we are going to talk about His nature. We're going to start right where God Himself starts when He describes His own character.Not what culture says about God… Not what our trauma says about God… Not even what our feelings say about God… BUT WHAT GOD SAYS ABOUT GOD.And there is one place in Scripture where God gives the most repeated, most quoted self-description of Himself in the entire Bible:FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTUREExodus 34:6–7 (NIV) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.This passage appears more than twenty times throughout the rest of Scripture. It is the Bible's anchor text for understanding the heart of God.[BUT IT DOES CREATE TENSION…] One moment God is compassionate, gracious, loving, forgiving… Then suddenly we read He “punishes the children”…SO… Is God merciful or is He vengeful? To answer that question, we need to look at the story behind these words.I. THE STORY BEHIND THE DESCRIPTIONBefore Exodus 34, God makes a covenant with Israel—He saves them out of slavery, brings them to Mount Sinai, gives them the Ten Commandments, and calls them to be SHAPED BY HIS CHARACTER so they can REPRESENT HIM TO THE WORLD.But as Moses is on the mountain receiving the covenant… Israel is at the bottom breaking the covenant… They build a golden calf. They worship an idol.God is hurt. God is angry. God tells Moses, “They will keep doing this. This rebellion will never stop.” AND God is ready to call off the covenant—And He would have been absolutely just in doing so!But Moses intercedes and reminds God of His promise to rescue the world through Abraham's family.[SO NOW THE QUESTION IS…] Will God give Israel what they deserve,or will He give them who He is?In response to that question— In response to human rebellion, human weakness, and human failure— GOD REVEALS HIS CHARACTER.II. THE FIVE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD (THE CENTERPIECE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT)The description in Exodus 34:6–7 has five core traits:Compassionate; Gracious; Slow to Anger; Abounding in Loyal Love; Faithful / TruthfulCompassion is listed first—not by accident. And today we're going to begin with the first thing God wants us to know about Him:III. THE GOD WHO IS COMPASSIONATE“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate God…” —Exodus 34:6The Hebrew word is raḥûm {ra-khum} (רַחוּם).Its noun form is raḥamîm (compassion).Both come from the Hebrew root rechem — womb.To the ancient Hebrew mind, compassion is not a soft, vague feeling.It is love ROOTED IN THE DEEPEST PLACE OF HUMAN EMOTION—a mother's fierce, protective, tender love for her vulnerable child.Compassion is not distant pity. It is GUT-LEVEL MOVEMENT TOWARD SOMEONE IN PAIN.A. Compassion HAS DEEP EMOTION — 1 Kings 3In Solomon's famous judgment between two mothers, the real mother is described as being “deeply moved”—the Hebrew is raḥamîm—compassion rising from her core, from her womb.She would rather lose her child to another woman than see him harmed.Compassion MOVES YOU TOWARD ANOTHER'S GOOD AT YOUR OWN COST.{BIG KEY} THIS IS THE FIRST WORD God chooses to DESCRIBE HIMSELF!B. Compassion MOVES GOD TO ACTIONCompassion isn't just God's feeling—it is God's movement. When Israel cries out in Egypt, Scripture says God “heard their groaning” and was moved with raḥamîm to rescue them.In the wilderness, though they complained and doubted, God sustained them like a mother with Food, Water, Protection, Clothing that did not wear out, Leadership, guidance, and mercy!{BIG KEY} When God reveals His character, the very first trait He mentions is COMPASSION.C. Israel Rejects God's Compassion… but GOD REMAINS COMPASSIONATEDespite His tenderness, Israel continually rejects Him. They worship idols. They oppress each other. They abandon Him and heir rebellion leads to exile.In the darkest moment, God speaks through Isaiah: Isaiah 49:15 Can a mother forget her nursing child, or have no compassion (raḥamîm) on the child of her womb? Though she may forget, I will not forget you.Even when Israel forgets God— God promises that He will not forget them!He is more faithful than the most faithful mother. More tender than the most tender heart. More committed than the most committed parent.[AND ISAIAH ANNOUNCES SOMETHING RADICAL…] God will rescue His people by ENTERING INTO THEIR SUFFERING HIMSELF.IV. JESUS IS THE COMPASSION OF GOD IN HUMAN FORMWhen Jesus steps onto the scene, He is the fulfillment of Exodus 34:6.The Greek word for compassion in the New Testament is oiktirmos {oeek-teir-mose} (οἰκτιρμός).It means deep pity; heart-moved mercy; compassion that expresses itself in action.There is also another word often used of Jesus' compassion:splagchnizomai {splank-knee-ZOE-my}— compassion from the inner parts, the guts, the womb-like center of a person.Jesus is the raḥûm of God walking among us.JESUS HEALS Because He Is CompassionateHe touches the leper; He lifts the broken; He feeds the hungry; He embraces the outcast.JESUS WEEPS Because He Is CompassionateAt Lazarus's tomb, He is deeply moved; He enters our grief.JESUS PROTECTS Because He Is CompassionateIn Luke 13:34, He compares Himself to: “a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings.” Again we see the mother-heart of God.JESUS SAVES Because He Is CompassionateThe ultimate oiktirmos {oeek-teir-mose} is the cross. Jesus enters humanity's suffering, sin, sorrow, death— Not because we deserved it, but because He COULDN'T LEAVE US WHERE WE WERE.V. THE TENSION OF COMPASSION AND JUSTICE[NOW LET'S TURN BACK TO…] Exodus 34.God is compassionate… But He is also just. He forgives wickedness, rebellion, and sin… But He “does not leave the guilty unpunished.”Is this contradiction? No—it is the balancing of God's character.A. The Third and Fourth GenerationsThe phrase “punishes to the third and fourth generation” does not mean God is punishing innocent grandchildren.It means God limits the consequences of generational rebellion only to those who continue it.In Hebrew thought:“Thousands” = countless generations“Three or four” = a very limited number{BIG KEY} God's LOYAL LOVE IS THOUSANDS OF TIMES GREATER than His judgment.God LEANS OVERWHELMINGLY TOWARD MERCY.He only gives judgment WHEN PEOPLE CONTINUOUSLY REJECT HIS COMPASSION.VI. WHAT COMPASSION REQUIRES FROM USBecause God is compassionate, Scripture calls us to embody His compassion:Luke 6:36 Be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.”2 Corinthians 1:3–4 God comforts us so we can comfort others.Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another…When we see suffering— Be moved.When we see brokenness— Move toward it.When we see pain— Don't look away; Don't harden your heart; Don't grow numb.Compassion is the character of God developed within His people.Agape, if we want to represent the God who is, we must become a people who reflect what He is.VII. APPLYING GOD'S COMPASSION TODAY1. When you are hurting, GOD MOVES TOWARD YOU, NOT AWAY FROM YOU.Some of you think God is disappointed or distant.No—He is moved by your pain.2. When you fail, GOD'S COMPASSION DOES NOT RUN OUT.Israel failed repeatedly—but God remained compassionate.3. When you see suffering, GOD WANTS TO MOVE THROUGH YOU.Compassion is not a feeling—it is participation.4. GOD'S COMPASSION IS STRONGER THAN YOUR GENERATIONAL PATTERNS.Three or four generations of sin cannot outweigh thousands of generations of God's loyal love.5. THE CROSS PROVES COMPASSION WINS.Jesus does not abandon His children—He gathers them.CONCLUSION — THE GOD WHO IS COMPASSIONATESO WHEN GOD REVEALS HIMSELF—not when Moses describes Him, not when people guess about Him, not when circumstances try to interpret Him— God tells Moses the very first word: COMPASSIONATE.THE God with a mother's heart…THE God who moves toward the hurting…THE God who feels deeply and acts timely…THE God who enters suffering, not avoids it…THE God who forgives before He judges…THE God whose love lasts to a thousand generations…THIS IS THE GOD WHO IS COMPASSIONATE.And this is where we begin 2026. Not with what we feel… BUT WITH WHO GOD IS.Today— Let's respond to the God who moves toward us.

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.churchUNWRAPPED: THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESSReceiving Forgiveness for Yourself1 John 1:9 (NIV)If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.After World War II, Allied soldiers liberated a concentration camp filled with emaciated prisoners. The gates were opened, food was brought in, and the captives were told, “You're free to go.” But one man didn't move.He sat on his cot, arms folded. When a soldier asked why, he said quietly,“I've been in here so long… I don't know how to live free.”That's exactly where many of us are spiritually. Jesus has opened the gate of grace, but shame keeps us sitting in the cell. We believe in forgiveness—but we don't believe it applies to us.Many people believe God forgives others but struggle to believe He truly forgives them. You can't walk in freedom while holding yourself hostage.Guilt reminds you of what you've done, but grace reminds you of who God is.1 John 1:9 doesn't start with punishment—it starts with promise:“If we confess our sins, He is faithful…”Guilt says, “You failed.” Grace says, “You're forgiven.”The enemy wants to keep you chained to your past, but Jesus specializes in writing new beginnings.When a judge declares someone “not guilty,” that decision erases their record. It's not probation; it's a pardon. That's what God does. He doesn't put you on spiritual probation—He declares you free and forgiven.So if God has forgiven you, why do you keep re-sentencing yourself?When you confess, you aren't informing God—you're inviting healing. God already knows what you've done. Confession isn't about giving Him new information; it's about giving Him permission to heal you.Psalm 32 says that when sin was kept hidden, it drained life from the inside—but the moment it was confessed, forgiveness came. Unconfessed guilt eats away at you, but when it's brought into the light, grace rushes in like fresh air.Imagine carrying a heavy backpack of rocks everywhere you go. Every sin, every regret, every shameful memory adds another stone. Confession is setting the backpack down and letting Jesus carry it.You can't move forward when you're weighed down by what God has already removed.God's forgiveness doesn't just erase your sin—it restores your identity.1 John 1:9 says He will “purify us from all unrighteousness.” He doesn't just forgive what you did; He restores who you are.You are not your worst mistake.You are not your addiction, your failure, your regret.You are a child of God—forgiven, redeemed, and made new.Scripture says that if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone; the new is here.Forgiveness doesn't just wipe away sin—it wipes away shame.This week, be honest before God. Tell Him what you've been carrying. He already knows, but He's waiting for you to let go. Write this declaration: “Because of Jesus, I am forgiven and free.” Put it somewhere you'll see it every day. Take time to remember that His blood was shed not just for sin—but for you.Remember Etch-A-Sketch toys? You twist the knobs and make a mess of lines, but when you shake it, the screen clears completely. That's forgiveness. God doesn't just draw over your mistakes—He shakes the slate clean.Scripture says He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.Maybe you've been living with silent shame—something you've never told anyone, something you can't forgive yourself for. But the good news is this: the manger leads to the cross, and the cross leads to freedom.It's time to believe that God's forgiveness is for you.“Lord Jesus, I believe You died for me.You know every sin, every secret, every scar—and yet You love me still.Today, I confess my need for You.I receive Your forgiveness and lay down my shame.I am forgiven, I am loved, and I am Yours.In Jesus' name, amen.”

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.churchUNWRAPPED: THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESSReceiving Forgiveness for Yourself1 John 1:9 (NIV)If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.After World War II, Allied soldiers liberated a concentration camp filled with emaciated prisoners. The gates were opened, food was brought in, and the captives were told, “You're free to go.” But one man didn't move.He sat on his cot, arms folded. When a soldier asked why, he said quietly,“I've been in here so long… I don't know how to live free.”That's exactly where many of us are spiritually. Jesus has opened the gate of grace, but shame keeps us sitting in the cell. We believe in forgiveness—but we don't believe it applies to us.Many people believe God forgives others but struggle to believe He truly forgives them. You can't walk in freedom while holding yourself hostage.Guilt reminds you of what you've done, but grace reminds you of who God is.1 John 1:9 doesn't start with punishment—it starts with promise:“If we confess our sins, He is faithful…”Guilt says, “You failed.” Grace says, “You're forgiven.”The enemy wants to keep you chained to your past, but Jesus specializes in writing new beginnings.When a judge declares someone “not guilty,” that decision erases their record. It's not probation; it's a pardon. That's what God does. He doesn't put you on spiritual probation—He declares you free and forgiven.So if God has forgiven you, why do you keep re-sentencing yourself?When you confess, you aren't informing God—you're inviting healing. God already knows what you've done. Confession isn't about giving Him new information; it's about giving Him permission to heal you.Psalm 32 says that when sin was kept hidden, it drained life from the inside—but the moment it was confessed, forgiveness came. Unconfessed guilt eats away at you, but when it's brought into the light, grace rushes in like fresh air.Imagine carrying a heavy backpack of rocks everywhere you go. Every sin, every regret, every shameful memory adds another stone. Confession is setting the backpack down and letting Jesus carry it.You can't move forward when you're weighed down by what God has already removed.God's forgiveness doesn't just erase your sin—it restores your identity.1 John 1:9 says He will “purify us from all unrighteousness.” He doesn't just forgive what you did; He restores who you are.You are not your worst mistake.You are not your addiction, your failure, your regret.You are a child of God—forgiven, redeemed, and made new.Scripture says that if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone; the new is here.Forgiveness doesn't just wipe away sin—it wipes away shame.This week, be honest before God. Tell Him what you've been carrying. He already knows, but He's waiting for you to let go. Write this declaration: “Because of Jesus, I am forgiven and free.” Put it somewhere you'll see it every day. Take time to remember that His blood was shed not just for sin—but for you.Remember Etch-A-Sketch toys? You twist the knobs and make a mess of lines, but when you shake it, the screen clears completely. That's forgiveness. God doesn't just draw over your mistakes—He shakes the slate clean.Scripture says He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.Maybe you've been living with silent shame—something you've never told anyone, something you can't forgive yourself for. But the good news is this: the manger leads to the cross, and the cross leads to freedom.It's time to believe that God's forgiveness is for you.“Lord Jesus, I believe You died for me.You know every sin, every secret, every scar—and yet You love me still.Today, I confess my need for You.I receive Your forgiveness and lay down my shame.I am forgiven, I am loved, and I am Yours.In Jesus' name, amen.”

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UNWRAPPED: THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESSSometimes, the pain or “wrapping” of OFFENSE hides the gifts of PEACE AND FREEDOM that comes through forgiveness. WHAT IS UNFORGIVENESS?POINT 1: Offense Is A TRAP — Forgiveness Is THE ESCAPE! Jesus said in Luke 17:1, “It is impossible that no offenses should come.” The Greek word for “offense” is skandalon — the bait stick in an animal trap. That's what offense does. It lures you in, and once you bite, it locks you down.1.Scripture describes Relational sins that create a “debt.”                                                                                   Matthew 6:12 - “forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”2.The Nature of the Debt3.Spiritual Law required appropriate payment for Sin. Rom 6:23 - "the wages of sin is death" 4.Unforgiveness Is Like A Parasite – It Sucks The Life Out Of You(Here comes my gross, cringy visual illustration that you will remember) 5.You can't avoid being hurt — but YOU CAN CHOOSE HOW YOU RESPOND. 6.Unforgiveness is a BIG DEAL to God!Mark 11:25 — Forgive when you stand praying “so your Father may forgive you.”You can't change what someone did, but YOU CAN CHANGE WHAT YOU DO NEXT.POINT 2: Forgiveness Is Not Saying What Happened Was Okay — It's Saying IT WON'T CONTROL YOU ANYMORESince God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. Col 3:12-15 NLTFOUR SPIRITUAL CONSEQUENCES OF LETTING UNFORGIVENESS LINGER1. CUTS OFF FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD (Matthew 6:14–15)2. GIVES SATAN LEGAL GROUND (Ephesians :26-27)3. DEFILES OTHERS AROUND US (Hebrews 12:15)4. IMPRISONS THE OFFENDED PERSONIf you'll let God handle the wrapping, He'll show you the gift inside — PEACE.POINT 3: Forgiving Others UNWRAPS PEACE IN YOUR HEARTAnd let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. Col 3:12-15 NLTPRACTICAL APPLICATIONAdvent Season – preparing our hearts for the coming of Messiah. This week, take three steps:Identify one person or situation that still stirs pain when you think about it.Pray for them by name each day this week. Bless them, even if your feelings haven't caught up yet.Write a Christmas Letter - a letter of release. (You don't have to send it.) Write what they did, how it affected you, and then end with: “Today, I choose to forgive you and release you to God.” It will be a gift to them… and to yourself!

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

THE PROMISE KEEPER Part 4: Cup of Praise – The Promise of Fulfillment “From Success to Service” - Introducing “Mark” Mark was a rising star in the corporate world. He had the job, the bonus, the prestige, the weekend get-aways. Everyone praised him. Yet despite it all, he felt a deep emptiness inside—a gnawing void. One day, on a business trip, Mark visited a modest urban neighborhood on a whim. He met a local ministry worker who invited him to join a service-project that afternoon: helping refurbish an old community centre for at-risk youth. Mark showed up out of curiosity, not commitment. There, amid the paint-stained brushes and laughter of kids reclaiming space, something shifted. He realised: “I'm good at success — but it's not fulfilling me.” The smiles of the kids, the gratitude of the neighbourhood, the real-time impact—this stirred something in him. Over the next few months, Mark started going back—weekends, evenings—helping the neighbourhood centre, mentoring a teenager, listening to stories of struggle, cheering on simple victories. He discovered that his talents, his resources, his time—when invested not just for himself but for others—began to fill the void he had tried to ignore. Mark came to see that the promise he had been seeking wasn't: “You will have more, you will succeed more.” The promise he found was: “You will live more; you will serve more; and in that serving you will find fulfilment.” His life transformed: the career remained, but the definition of success changed. He measured success now in lives touched, hope renewed, a community uplifted. When he gave generously of himself, he found the greatest return. When he served others, he discovered what he was created for. He realised the cup of fulfilment was meant to be poured out, not just held for oneself. REVIEW: THE FOUR CUPS OF GOD'S PROMISES Our Christian Communion Celebration is modeled after the Jewish Passover, but where we use one cup, the Jewish people use four cups—each tied to Exodus 6:6–7. These cups represent four eternal promises God made more than 3,000 years ago, promises that still form the heart of His work today: Exodus 6:6–7 (NIV) Therefore, say to the Israelites: ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians.” A PROMISE is AN OFFER WITH A GUARANTEED RESULT. 1. “I will bring you out…” - Cup of SANCTIFICATION – The PROMISE OF SALVATION 2. “I will free you…” - Cup of DELIVERANCE – The PROMISE OF FREEDOM 3. “I will redeem you…” - Cup of REDEMPTION – The PROMISE OF RESTORATION 4. “I will take you as my own people.” - Cup of PRAISE – The PROMISE OF FULFILLMENT The Hebrew word “Hallel” means “to celebrate.” Combined with “Jah” (God), it gives us Hallelujah = Celebrate God! The Fourth Cup (Hallel) is about a celebrating life—“Hallelujah”—a life that magnifies God by making a difference with others as His people. This Fourth Cup is about LIVING A LARGE, FULL LIFE—not problem-free, but MEANINGFUL, FRUITFUL, and OVERFLOWING WITH JOY. God's desire is for you to live in such a way that your life itself becomes an act of praise—overflowing into others, making a difference in the world. Jesus confirmed this in: John 10:10 (TLB) — The thief's purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness. MANY DON'T LIVE IN FULFILLMENT BECAUSE… They let their past cripple them. They let culture define them. They try to do it all alone. THREE PRACTICAL WAYS TO WALK IN THE PROMISE OF FULFILLMENT 1. INVEST IN ETERNAL IMPACT Matthew 6:19–20 (NIV) — Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. Fulfillment isn't found in what we accumulate, fulfillment is found in WHAT WE CONTRIBUTE. Ask: “How is my time, talent, and treasure advancing God's Kingdom?” Living for eternity gives your life lasting significance. 2. CELEBRATE PROGRESS, NOT PERFECTION Philippians 3:13–14 (NIV) — Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal… Don't let the weight of unfinished goals or past mistakes rob you of joy. Learn to praise God for progress… every step forward is evidence of His promise. Fulfillment grows when GRATITUDE BECOMES YOUR POSTURE. 3. MULTIPLY YOUR LIFE IN OTHERS 2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV) — And the things you have heard me say… entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. Fulfillment isn't just about what God does in you,

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Follow us on:Facebook: agapechurchsloInstagram: @agapechurchsloWebsite: agape.church

How To Walk Out A Biblical WorldviewReview: Everyone Has a Worldview Your WORLDVIEW is simply the LENS YOU SEE LIFE THROUGH.Foundational Scripture for this series, Proverbs 14:12(NLT) 12 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.Barna Report: In his report from the American Worldview Inventory 2023, Barna identifies the “seven cornerstones of the biblical worldview.” They are:An orthodox, biblical understanding of God.All human beings are sinful by nature; every choice we make has moral considerations and consequences.Knowing Jesus Christ is the only means to salvation, through our confession of sin and reliance on His forgiveness.The entire Bible is true, reliable, and relevant, making it the best moral guide for every person, in all situations.Absolute moral truth exists—and those truths are defined by God, described in the Bible, and are unchanging across time and cultures.The ultimate purpose of human life is to know, love, and serve God with all your heart, mind, strength, and soul.Success on earth is best understood as consistent obedience to God—in thoughts, words, and actionsThe report goes on to say:35% of Americans believe Jesus is the only way for salvation.46% accept the Bible as true and reliable.25% believe in absolute truth rooted in the Bible.23% define success as obedience to God.Our worldview drives our beliefs and our behavior.Victory Christian SchoolWe have seen research lately that says that a person's worldview is established by the age of 13.And that by the age of 30 most people go back to that early world view. So it is imperative that we teach our kids a Biblical worldview.They must believe they are created by God and the Word of God is absolute truth. Quick explanation of:Biblical WorldviewPost modernismSecularismSyncretismHow To Walk Out A Biblical WorldviewGalatians 3 (NLT) The Law and Faith in Christ1 Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ's death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 2 Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses? Of course not! You received the Spirit because you believed the message you heard about Christ. 3 How foolish can you be? After starting your new lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? 4 Have you experienced so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?5 I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law? Of course not! It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ.6 In the same way, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”7 The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God.10 But those who depend on the law to make them right with God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, “Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the commands that are written in God's Book of the Law.” 11 So it is clear that no one can be made right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.”The gospel is the most radical message that has ever confronted humanity Because it deals with our biggest issues - pride and selfishness.The only answer to self is the cross. I have to let self die and the Christ nature move in. How To Walk Out A Biblical Worldview Matthew 16:24-25 (NIV) 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.#1 The cross is the place where I die.#2 It's not what I want, it's what God wants.#3 It's not what I think, it's what God says in His Word.#4 It's not what I feel, it's how the Holy Spirit leads me.

This sermon explores the importance of rooting one's identity in God's truth rather than cultural definitions or personal achievements. Pastor James emphasizes that a biblical worldview sees all aspects of life through the unchanging truth of God's Word. He contrasts this with a Christian worldview, which can be shaped by tradition or culture. The sermon encourages believers to reject counterfeit identities, root themselves in Scripture, and remember their worth as defined by God.Key Points:Everyone has a worldview, but a biblical worldview is based on God's Word, not cultural normsOur identity is not self-made, but God-givenWe must reject counterfeit identities and root our identity in ScriptureRenewing our mind is crucial for maintaining a biblical worldviewRemember your worth is fixed in the finished work of Jesus, not others' opinionsGod defines our worth, gender, and callingScripture References:Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."Genesis 1:27 - "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."Romans 12:2 - "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW Week 1 – The Foundation of Truth A True Story: In 1999, NASA lost a $125 million Mars Climate Orbiter. Why? One team used the metric system, another used English measurements. The spacecraft was perfectly built, but it was operating on the wrong standard. A tiny difference in “what seemed right” to one team ended in destruction and destroyed the mission. The lesson? Without the right standard, even the smartest people end up in failure. What is a worldview? (Lens → shapes beliefs, decisions, priorities). A WORLDVIEW is the LENS YOU SEE LIFE THROUGH Here's how it works: Beliefs → Decisions → Outcomes If you don't like your outcomes, look at your decisions. If you don't like your decisions, examine your beliefs. If your beliefs are not anchored in God's truth, they will mislead you. Christian vs. Biblical Worldview (tradition vs. Scripture). Definition: CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW: A set of beliefs held by those who profess to be Christian—sometimes shaped by culture, tradition, politics, or personal preference rather than God's Word. BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW: Seeing and interpreting all of life—morality, relationships, purpose, money, politics, work, suffering, eternity—through the lens of Scripture. God's Word defines truth, not opinion, not society, not feelings. A CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW may be SHAPED BY TRADITION, DENOMINATION, OR CULTURE. A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW is ROOTED IN GOD'S WORD. [JESUS PRAYS…] John 17:17 (NLT) Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. BIG IDEA: Everyone has a worldview—it's the lens you see life through. But only a BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW is built on God's unchanging truth. Why it matters (Proverbs 14:12 — “seems right” leads to destruction). Foundational Text: Proverbs 14:12 (NLT) – “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.” Proverbs 14:12 warns: What “SEEMS RIGHT” can STILL LEAD TO DEATH. Psalm 18:30 “This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.” Psalm 18:30 says God's Word is PERFECT and PROVES TRUE. God's Word is perfect, trustworthy, proven. God's Word is the perfect “flight manual” for life. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All 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. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. ACTION STEPS: Believe God's Word is FINAL AUTHORITY. Commit to DAILY BIBLE READING. Test EVERY DECISION AGAINST SCRIPTURE. Ask: “AM I LIVING BY TRUTH, or BY WHAT SEEMS RIGHT?” Invitation (Romans 10:9–10): Build your life on Jesus—the Living Word.

Mason Boller, Rian Huffman, Sam Wright, Shana Fauchier, Christian Gonzales, and Jaz Pickett

KEY SCRIPTURES: Matthew 7:13-14; 21-23 “We often OVERCOMPLICATE GOD'S WILL and UNDERESTIMATE HIS GOODNESS.” True life is only found in SURRENDER and RELATIONSHIP with Christ, not in appearances or rituals. Repentance – TURNING FROM SIN. Trust – RELYING FULLY on Christ as the way, the truth, the life. Lordship – SUBMITTING EVERY AREA OF LIFE. HUMILITY OVER PRIDE - Matthew 5:5 (NLT) PURITY OVER COMPROMISE - Matthew 5:8 (NLT) LOVE OVER RETALIATION - Matthew 5:44 (NLT) TRUST OVER WORRY - Matthew 6:33-34 (NLT) INTEGRITY OVER HYPOCRISY - Matthew 6:1 (NLT) A STRONG FOUNDATION - Matthew 7:24-27 (NLT) Not legalistic rule-keeping, but A LIFE TRANSFORMED by God's Spirit. Jesus' yoke is easy because it's carried in HIS STRENGTH. His way is narrow because it demands OUR WHOLE HEART.

KEY SCRIPTURES: Matthew 6:19—34; Proverbs 11:28; Luke 12:15; Colossians 3:1-2; Jesus isn't saying it's wrong to have money. He's saying IT'S DANGEROUS TO TRUST IN IT. Worry is often a symptom that we've placed TRUST IN OURSELVES instead of TRUST IN OUR FATHER. This is not prosperity gospel—it's PRIORITY GOSPEL. The way of the Kingdom is not worry, IT'S WORSHIP. It's not accumulation, IT'S SURRENDER. It's not fear, IT'S FAITH.

Jesus invites us into a way of living that feels backward to the world, but it leads us to the truth of God's heart. KEY TRUTHS: Live as people of heaven while still on earth. The way forward is deeper, not easier. Real righteousness means treating every human like they have ultimate value. Jesus raised the bar. He fulfilled the Law so we could live a transformed life from the inside out. He calls us to reject surface-level spirituality. At Agape, we've committed to stop settling for appearances and live from the inside out—loving God, obeying His Word, reflecting His kingdom. Let's begin with a prayer: “Holy Spirit, I want to live righteously—deeper than behavior. Make me more like Jesus.” Jesus lived in a culture where public devotion brought praise. But devotion can become performance when our audience shifts from God to people. Even our “doing righteousness”—in giving, praying, and fasting—can be corrupted. Jesus believed the ultimate treasure of life is not status or recognition, but receiving God's love—and giving that love to others. “Be careful that you don't do your righteousness in front of people to be seen by them. If you do, you'll have no reward from your Father in the skies.” – Matthew 6:1 GENEROSITY “When you give... don't signal it with a trumpet... they have fully received their reward.” – Matthew 6:2 Jesus' culture honored public giving, but He warns against giving for attention. “When you give... don't let your left hand know what your right is doing... your Father who sees in private will reward you.” – Matthew 6:3–4 Give from love, not for likes. Jesus' teachings on generosity (Mark 10:17–22; Mark 12:41–44; Matt. 13:44; Luke 12:13–21, 33; Acts 20:35) show God's heartbeat. Even good acts need honest motives. PRAYER “When you pray... don't be like the hypocrites... they've received their reward.” – Matthew 6:5 Jesus prayed consistently (Luke 5:16) but also warns against using prayer for praise. “When you pray, go into a room... pray to your Father in private... He will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6 Prayer is about intimacy, not performance. Jesus gives wisdom: check your motives by praying when no one can see. FASTING “When you fast, don't look gloomy... they have received their reward.” – Matthew 6:16 Fasting is praying with your body—setting aside physical needs to make space for God. But it too can become performative. “When you fast... wash your face, so your fasting isn't visible... your Father... will reward you.” – Matthew 6:17–18 Jesus never says to stop giving, praying, or fasting. He says: don't treat God's love like a trophy. When done from love, the reward is His presence, pleasure, and transformation (Matt. 23:2–12; 2 Pet. 1:3; John 17:20–23). PRACTICAL STEPS AUDIT YOUR MOTIVES Ask: Would I do this if no one knew? (Psalm 139:23–24) CULTIVATE A SECRET PLACE Create space in daily life for private worship (Matthew 6:6). PRACTICE ANONYMOUS GENEROSITY Give without recognition. Love giving more than credit (Matthew 6:3–4). FAST FROM VISIBILITY Avoid public displays. Let it be between you and God (Matthew 6:17–18). REMEMBER YOUR TRUE REWARD Your reward is not applause—it's knowing and being known by God (John 17:3; 2 Peter 1:3)

UPSIDE DOWN: JESUS & THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT Week 5 – Oaths, Retaliation and Enemy Love He had tried to build bridges between the Muslims and Christians in his village. It was all I could do to find any love for such hate-filled terrorists—or to pray for them. The gift of salvation is freely given. To be transformed into the image of Jesus is costly. “…that Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, will be more fully formed in us. In Jesus' Name, amen.” Matthew 5:33–37 “Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not make false vows, but shall fulfill your vows to the Lord.' But I say to you, make no oath at all… But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes,' or ‘No, no'; anything beyond these is of the evil one.” Matthew 12:36–37 “But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Kingdom speech is powerful in its simplicity and refreshing in its clarity. 1 Samuel 3:19 “And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground.” Proverbs 18:21 “The power of life and death is in the tongue.” James 3:8–11 “The tongue… is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men… From the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.” Before we speak, we need to check in with the Holy Spirit. Amen? Matthew 5:38–42 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye…' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person… turn the other cheek… go the second mile… give to him who asks of you.” Walter Wink wrote: “‘Turn the other cheek' suggests the passive, Christian doormat image. ‘Resist not evil' seems to crush opposition and encourage submission. ‘Go the second mile' becomes a platitude. But Jesus never acted this way. The misunderstanding lies not with Jesus, but with our interpretation.” The Bible is a cultural translation, not just a linguistic one. Jesus offers a way to oppose evil without mirroring it—without losing your dignity or self-worth. Matthew 5:43–48 “You have heard… ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you… For He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good… Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” “Hate your enemy” may have been a common phrase, but it's not biblical. Scripture makes that clear: Job 31:29–30 “Have I rejoiced at the extinction of my enemy…? No, I have not allowed my mouth to sin by asking for his life in a curse.” Proverbs 25:21–22 “If your enemy is hungry, give him bread… if thirsty, water… for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.” Last Friday, Islamic terrorists attacked a worship service in Yaribori, Nigeria, killing Pastor Emmanuel Na'allah and a recent convert, and abducting a woman. Reverend Emmanuel Na'allah “Bring Your enemies to repentance—or render them incapable of harming Your people. In Jesus' Name, SAVE. Amen.” Matthew 5:43–48 (repeated for emphasis) “…Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” Jesus was perfect, but not obsessive. He doesn't call us to be neurotic or self-condemning. R.V.G. Tasker: "Perfection refers to uprightness and sincerity of character. While sinless perfection is impossible, godliness is attainable." Maturity isn't about age alone. How do we grow into Christ? Two words: Press on. Hosea 6:3 “So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord…” Philippians 3:12 “Not that I have already obtained it… but I press on…” Philippians 3:14 “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Hebrews 6:1 “Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ, let us press on to maturity…”

Jesus invites us to a way of life that feels upside down to the world—but in it, we discover God's right-side-up truth. A call to LIVE AS PEOPLE OF HEAVEN while still on earth. A CROWD OF NOBODIES Jesus began not among the powerful in Jerusalem, but among nobodies in Galilee—people who were poor, sick, and oppressed. To them, He speaks words that still flip the world upside down. THE KINGDOM BEGINS WITH THE BROKEN “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:3 The “kingdom of heaven” isn't just about the afterlife—it's God's new reality on earth. It begins with the spiritually bankrupt and humble. COMFORT FOR THE GRIEVING, INHERITANCE FOR THE OVERLOOKED “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” – Matthew 5:5 Jesus offers hope: comfort for grief and inheritance for the overlooked. This movement isn't for the power-hungry—it's led by those who long for healing, mercy, and reconciliation. A REVOLUTION OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, MERCY, AND PURITY “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” – Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” – Matthew 5:7 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8 These are people who seek justice, offer mercy, and long for hearts aligned with God. Jesus doesn't demand perfection—He calls for transformation. PEACEMAKERS AND THE PERSECUTED “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10 Jesus wants peacemakers—those who enter conflict to bring healing. But He warns: it comes with a cost. “Blessed are you when people insult you… Rejoice and be glad… for in the same way they persecuted the prophets…” – Matthew 5:11–12 THE BLESSED BECOME THE WITNESS (MATTHEW 5:13–16) “You are the salt of the earth.” – Matthew 5:13 “You are the light of the world… A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14 Jesus declares: Salt preserves—"You are God's faithful ones.” Light reveals—"You now carry God's presence.” City leads—"You are the new Jerusalem.” God's kingdom breaks into the world through the righteous—those who live rightly with God and others. JESUS DIDN'T CANCEL THE LAW—HE COMPLETED IT “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law… I have not… but to fulfill them.” – Matthew 5:17 Jesus didn't discard the Old Testament—He embodied it. He lived out what the Law pointed toward. EVERY WORD STILL MATTERS “Not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” – Matthew 5:18 Every word still holds weight. Jesus calls us not to legalism, but alignment with God's heart. GREATNESS IN THE KINGDOM COMES THROUGH OBEDIENCE “Whoever relaxes… and teaches others… will be called least… but whoever does them and teaches… will be called great.” – Matthew 5:19 Greatness is not about status—but about living and teaching God's ways. It's not about perfection, but intentional pursuit. MORE RIGHTEOUS THAN THE RIGHTEOUS? “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees… you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:20 To the crowd, this was shocking. The Pharisees looked holy—but it was a performance. Jesus calls us to inner transformation, not outward appearances. JESUS' VISION: WHOLEHEARTED LIVING Jesus will now reveal the heart behind commands like “Do not murder” and “Do not commit adultery.” He's calling us to a righteousness rooted in love—not fear. A life aligned with God's heart. FIVE PRACTICAL STEPS TO APPLY MATTHEW 5:17–20 Recommit to SCRIPTURE AS WISDOM Read the Bible as relational guidance. Start with Psalm 119:97–105. Ask: AM I PERFORMING OR TRANSFORMING? Am I acting to look good—or to grow in love? PRACTICE OBEDIENCE IN SMALL THINGS Faithfulness in small things—generosity, humility—matters. TEACH WHAT YOU LIVE Share what you're living, not just what you know. INVITE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO SHAPE YOUR HEART Pray: “Holy Spirit, transform me from the inside out.” THE WAY FORWARD IS DEEPER, not easier Jesus raises the bar—but walks the path with us. He fulfilled the Law so we don't live in fear, but in faith that transforms. Let's stop settling for surface spirituality. Let's live righteously—by loving God, obeying His Word, and reflecting His Kingdom… from the inside out.

Matthew 5:3-12 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Mt.5:1,2 “Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, he began to teach them.” Ep.1:18 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, Mt.5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Lk. 17:20,21 “Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,' or ‘There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in within you.” Lk.11:20 “But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” Mat.5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 1Th. 4:13 “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” 2C.7:10 “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.” Lk.18:13-14 “Tax collector stood at a distance. Wouldn't even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Mat.5:5 Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth. Mt.11:28,29 "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me. For I am meek and lowly in heart." Jn 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”Ep. 4:22-24 "You were taught to put off your old self... to be made new in the attitude of your minds... to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." Mt 11:29 "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls." Mat.5:6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Ph.3:15 “All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things.” Mat.5:7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 2 C.1:3-4 “What a wonderful God we have—he is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the one who comforts and strengthens us in our hardships... so that we can pass on to others this same help.” Mat.5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Ps. 24:3-6 “Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart... They will receive blessing from the Lord... Such is the generation of those who seek him.” Mat.5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Mat.5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. PRACTICAL STEPS TO GROW THROUGH THE STUDY OF Mat.5-7: 1. Read slowly each week 2. Memorize a verse each week 3. Keep the treasure: Look for things that challenge and bless 4. Pray the Lord's prayer daily as a declaration 5. Live in community (small groups) 6. Live as Kingdom people while still here on earth.

In 2006, tragedy hit an Amish community in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, when a gunman killed five girls and injured five more before taking his life. Yet what followed stunned the world: the Amish forgave the shooter, visited his family, attended his funeral, and even embraced his children. One grieving father said, “We must not think evil of this man.” This radical grace doesn't fit the world's logic—but it makes perfect sense in the Kingdom Jesus described. His Sermon on the Mount offers a way of life that flips the values of the world upside down and reveals God's heart. TURNING THE WORLD UPSIDE DOWN Jesus' teachings weren't just comforting—they were revolutionary. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) is filled with powerful statements: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39) “Do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12) “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13) “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24) “Take the plank out of your own eye…” (Matthew 7:5) “Turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39) “Love your enemies…” (Matthew 5:44) “If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off…” (Matthew 5:30) At the center is the Lord's Prayer: “Our Father in heaven… your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9–10). WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? Jesus, shaped by the Hebrew Scriptures, knew humanity was created to reflect God's rule (Genesis 1:26–28) but chose rebellion (Genesis 11:1–9). God called Israel to live by His wisdom (Exodus 19:3–6; Deuteronomy 4:6–8), but by Jesus' time, His Kingdom felt far away. Under Roman rule, Israel suffered. Pharisees emphasized law. Sadducees pushed peace with Rome. Zealots wanted to fight. Others withdrew. But the everyday people—farmers, widows, laborers—were weary and hopeless. JESUS ANNOUNCES: THE KINGDOM IS HERE To them, Jesus brought healing and hope. He said: “The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). Then He declared: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). Jesus wasn't calling the powerful to rise—but inviting the humble to look up. The Kingdom starts with the broken, the weary, the overlooked. AN INVITATION TO TRANSFORMATION Over the next nine weeks, we'll explore this upside-down Kingdom: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12): blessings that redefine true success Teachings on anger, lust, retaliation: calling us to deeper righteousness Warnings about hypocrisy, worry, and judging others Jesus' final words: “Whoever hears these words… and puts them into practice is like a wise man…” (Matthew 7:24) Jesus doesn't just want to inform us—He wants to transform us. FIVE WAYS TO GROW THROUGH THIS SERIES Read Matthew 5–7 weekly Let the words soak in. Try different Bible translations. Memorize a verse each week Start with the Beatitudes. Reflect Write what challenges or encourages you. Pray the Lord's Prayer daily (Matthew 6:9–13) Make it a declaration. Live it in community Join a group or a friend to walk through this together. CLOSING The way of Jesus often feels upside down. But it's the true path to life. “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness…” (Matthew 6:33) Let's not just hear His words—let's build our lives on them.

GIDEONColumnist and author Ann Landers once described how our attitudes toward our dads evolve as we grow:Child's Age – Attitude Toward Dad4 years: My daddy can do anything.7 years: My dad knows a lot, a whole lot.8 years: Wow… Dad doesn't quite know everything, does he?12 years: Well, of course Dad wouldn't know anything about that.14 years: Pops? Hopelessly old-fashioned.21 years: Oh, he's living in the past. What'd you expect?25 years: He knows a little bit about it, but pretty clueless.30 years: Well, it might not help, but we could ask Dad what he thinks.35 years: Let's slow down a bit and get Dad's opinion before we do anything.50 years: I wonder what Dad would've thought about that. He was pretty smart.60 years: My dad knew absolutely everything!65 years: I'd give anything if Dad were still here so I could talk this over with him. I really miss him.Theology Professor Calvin Miller once said: “The reason that the earth is so poor is that her real treasure lies in heaven, while all her treasure maps are of the earth.”This is because God truly sees us as His children.In South Africa's Pilanesberg Park, young male elephants—without the guidance of mature males—became aggressive and destructive. Eventually, older bull elephants were introduced. They quickly brought stability and order, assuming their roles as fathers and disciplinarians.What was your dad's wound from his dad? And how was grandpa hurt by his father? Many of us are shaped by generations of father wounds.“Many men with father wounds become the best fathers. They have a deep conviction to protect the next generation from what wounded them.” Author Richard RohrGod sends an angel to the home of Joash, from the clan of Abiezer, to speak with Joash's son, Gideon:Judges 6:12–16The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior.”Then Gideon said to him, “O my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?' But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”The Lord looked at him and said, “Go in this your strength and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian. Have I not sent you?”He said to Him, “O Lord, how shall I deliver Israel? Behold, my family is the least in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father's house.”But the Lord said to him, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat Midian as one man.”But first, God required Gideon and Joash to separate themselves from idolatry before stepping into their calling.Judges 6:25–27Now on the same night the Lord said to him, “Take your father's bull and a second bull seven years old, and pull down the altar of Baal which belongs to your father, and cut down the Asherah that is beside it; and build an altar to the Lord your God on the top of this stronghold in an orderly manner, and take the second bull and offer a burnt offering with the wood of the Asherah which you shall cut down.”Then Gideon took ten men of his servants and did as the Lord had spoken to him; and because he was too afraid of his father's household and the men of the city to do it by day, he did it by night.One of the few remaining altars of Baal still stands today—a reminder of the very thing Gideon was called to tear down.This action was bold, loud, and disruptive. People noticed right away.Judges 6:28–31When the men of the city arose early in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was torn down, and the Asherah which was beside it was cut down, and the second bull was offered on the altar which had been built.They said to one another, “Who did this thing?” And when they searched about and inquired, they said, “Gideon the son of Joash did this thing.”Then the men of the city said to Joash, “Bring out your son, that he may die, for he has torn down the altar of Baal, and indeed, he has cut down the Asherah which was beside it.”But Joash said to all who stood against him, “Will you contend for Baal, or will you deliver him? Whoever will plead for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because someone has torn down his altar.”After this turning point, God began to move Gideon into leadership and victory—because God knew what was coming.Judges 6:33–34 (NLT)Soon afterward the armies of Midian, Amalek, and the people of the east formed an alliance against Israel and crossed the Jordan, camping in the valley of Jezreel.Then the Spirit of the Lord clothed Gideon with power. He blew a ram's horn as a call to arms, and the men of the clan of Abiezer came to him.

NEIGHBORS TO NATIONS - Week 2 FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THE WORLD NEEDS OUR KINGDOM RESPONSE 3.2 billion are unreached with the Gospel 700+ million live in extreme poverty 50 million are in modern slavery 100 million are displaced by war 2 billion lack access to safe drinking water 10% of the world goes to bed hungry each night MEETING THE GLOBAL NEEDS The Gospel addresses humanity's greatest need: reconciliation with God. It also compels us to care for others with love. The mission is not a sprint—it's a marathon. While we can't do everything, we must faithfully do something with the gifts God has given us. “The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread... If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” —Mother Teresa LOCAL AND GLOBAL: BOTH MATTER TO GOD “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem... and to the ends of the earth.” —Acts 1:8 This isn't either/or—it's both/and. We are called to meet needs across the street and across the globe. “I saw a vast crowd... from every nation and tribe and people and language.” —Rev. 7:9 JESUS' MISSION IS OUR MISSION “The Spirit of the Lord is on me... to proclaim good news to the poor... to set the oppressed free...” —Luke 4:18–19 His mission continues through us. JESUS MODELED MERCY AND MESSAGE Jesus didn't just preach. He touched lepers, fed the hungry, and set captives free. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat... whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” —Matt. 25:35–40 THE GOSPEL SETS PEOPLE FREE “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” —John 8:32 Whether chains are physical or spiritual, only the Gospel transforms from the inside out. “The will of God is never what you expect... but in the end, it's better and bigger.” —Elisabeth Elliot “Who the Son sets free is free indeed!” HOUSE CLEANING Removing idols, fetishes, and demonic attachments is part of freedom in Christ. WHEN THE WORK IS HARD “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” —Gal. 6:9 This mission stretches your faith and tests your comfort—but God is with you. The Kingdom is advancing. “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” —Matt. 16:24 INVEST IN GOD'S GLOBAL VISION Christians in America give $130 billion annually to churches and ministries, but less than 1% goes toward reaching the unreached. This calls us to rethink how we steward our resources. If we believe the Gospel is the hope of the world, we must give accordingly. THE BODY OF CHRIST: A GLOBAL FORCE The mission is great—but so is the Church. We are part of the most Spirit-empowered, gifted, and numerous people on earth. “Dry bones live and become an army.” —Ezekiel Revival, unity, and mission are on the rise. Let's rise with it. THE TIME IS NOW “How can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” —Romans 10:14–15 We have people, resources, knowledge—and most importantly, the Holy Spirit. What if the Church truly rose up in unity, compassion, and purpose? “The opportunity of a lifetime must be seized during the lifetime of the opportunity.” —Leonard Ravenhill THE CALL TO ACTION “The Church is not a building we go to, but a force we move with.” GO – Join a short-term mission SERVE – Cross-culturally or locally GIVE – Support frontline workers PRAY – Intercede for the unreached DISCIPLE – Raise up others in faith We are the most resourced, connected, and Gospel-rich generation in history. Let us not waste this moment. The world is waiting. The harvest is great. And Jesus is worthy.

NEIGHBORHOODS TO NATIONS Paul told Timothy, “Do the work of the Evangelist” (2 Tim 4:5). Today, despite global turbulence, God's kingdom is growing. A spiritual hunger is rising—especially among young people—not just for information, but a relationship with Jesus. Recent Stats: In 2024/25, 62% of 18–24-year-olds identify as spiritual, up from 25–33% in 2021–23. They're hungry—not all saved yet, but searching. The Church must respond. 1. WHY? People won't know Jesus unless someone tells them! Romans 10:14-15 (NIV): “How can they believe... without someone preaching... How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” 2. WHY? We must remember what it was like to be lost. Luke 15:4: “What man of you… does not leave the ninety-nine… and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?” Lost people today are surrounded by noise, but empty inside. I was lost at Disneyland as a kid—and again at 19—until Jesus found me. We must help others be found. 3. WHY? Christ's Love Compels Us! John 3:16 (NKJV): “For God so loved the world...” 1 John 4:19: “We love Him because He first loved us.” We share not out of guilt, but because we've been changed. People like Tom, Christine, and Bill shared Jesus with me. 4. The Power of Seed 1 Corinthians 3:6-8: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase…” Every conversation, every act of love plants a seed. 5. Infinite Potential in a Seed F.F. Bosworth said, “One verse… may grow into thousands of conversions.” 6. WHY? We are Called and Sent Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV): “Go therefore and make disciples…” John 20:21: “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” Evangelism isn't just for pastors—it's for all of us. 7. We Are Ambassadors 2 Corinthians 5:14-20: “We are ambassadors for Christ… be reconciled to God.” Evangelism is urgent—“God is pleading through us.” 8. WHY? The Reality of Heaven & Hell Jesus warned of hell (Gehenna) at least 11 times. Matthew 25:31: “Depart from me… into everlasting fire…” 2 Thes. 1:9: “...everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord…” Hell is not God's choice—it's ours. Romans 6:23: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life…” Hebrews 9:22: “Without the shedding of blood there is no remission…” Summary – Why Share Our Faith? We Share Because We've Been Changed We Share Because People Are Lost We Share Because We Are Ambassadors We Share Because Jesus Paid the Ultimate Price Part 2 – Practical Tools for Sharing the Gospel 1. Start with Prayer 2. Build Bridges, Not Sales Pitches --Be honest and relational. Jesus met people where they were (John 4). 3. Ask Good Questions --“Are you interested in spiritual things?” --“What does ‘born again' mean to you?” --“If you died today, do you believe in Heaven or Hell?” 4. Share Your Story --Before Christ – Meeting Christ – After Christ 5. Listen Well (James 1:19) 6. Pray for Needs on the Spot --Invite God's presence to move. 7. Offer Help Where You Can --Let your actions reflect Christ's love. Let's Do It! Pray for boldness. Be available. Every conversation is a seed—plant it, and trust God for the harvest!

In 2010, Kayla Montgomery joined her high school track team in North Carolina. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), she lost all feeling in her legs when she ran. Unable to sense pain or know when to stop, she trained hard and collapsed at every finish line. Her coach had to catch her. Yet, she became one of the top young distance runners in the country—not because of talent alone, but because of discipline and self-control. She ran with purpose and the end in mind. Her story reminds us: You can't finish strong without running with control. Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV) "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." REFLECTION Self-control is the final fruit listed, but it often determines if the others can be seen. It's more than resisting temptation—it's about saying yes to God's purpose. It shows the Spirit is alive and working in us. 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV) "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." BIG KEY: Self-control is God's power in us—helping us do what honors Him, now and for the future. Paul's Honest Struggle with Self-Control Romans 7:15–24 (NLT) "I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate…" Paul reminds us: we're not alone. Every believer faces this struggle. 5 PRACTICAL KEYS TO LIVING IN SELF-CONTROL 1. REPENT AND RESET DAILY Acts 3:19 (NIV) "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…" Repentance realigns our hearts. Each day is a chance to reset. 2. LET LOVE BE YOUR MOTIVATION John 14:15 (NIV) "If you love me, keep my commands." Fear fades, but love endures. When we grasp Jesus' love, we respond with obedience. 3. TRAIN YOUR DESIRES Titus 2:11–12 (NIV) "For the grace of God… teaches us to say ‘No' to ungodliness…" Self-control is learned through training. Like athletes, we grow by practice. 4. PARTNER WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT Galatians 5:16 (NIV) "Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." We don't control ourselves by trying harder, but by walking closer to the Spirit. 5. KEEP THE END IN MIND 1 Corinthians 9:25 (NIV) "Everyone who competes… does it to get a crown that will not last…" A future focus helps us say “no” now and “yes” to what matters most. ACTION STEPS Begin your day with 2 minutes of silence and confession. Ask: “Will this choice honor the One I love?” Choose one area to practice spiritual discipline (e.g., fasting one meal/week). In temptation, whisper: “Holy Spirit, help me.” Post your life vision where you'll see it daily. Let it remind you: self-control is an investment in your future. CLOSING DECLARATION: Self-control is the fruit of God's power in me that helps me do what I want to do, and not do what I know I shouldn't do, so I can live a life that is honoring to God right now and in the future days ahead! Where do you need to “reset”? What area is God asking you to grow in self-control? Invite people to respond through prayer and surrender to the Holy Spirit.

During WWII, Dutch Christian Corrie ten Boom and her family hid Jews from the Nazis, saving nearly 800 lives. In 1944, they were arrested. Corrie's sister Betsie died in Ravensbrück, leaving behind a legacy of kindness. Years later, Corrie was approached by a man who had been one of the cruel guards. Now a believer, he asked for forgiveness. Corrie froze—until Ephesians 4:32 came to mind: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Though it was hard, she forgave him—not out of emotion, but obedience. She said, “Forgiveness is an act of the will... regardless of the temperature of the heart.” That act of kindness wasn't natural—it was supernatural—evidence of the Spirit of God within her. Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Kindness isn't about being “nice” or having a pleasant personality. It's a fruit of the Holy Spirit—a sign that God is alive in us. In a world that rewards cruelty and mocks compassion, true kindness is radical and powerful. We can't manufacture fruit—it's the natural result of a life rooted in Christ. When the Spirit leads, kindness flows. It's not about rules—it's about transformation. [EPHESIANS 4:32 (NKJV)] “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Kindness comes from a soft heart. A hardened heart, however, leads to the kind of "bad fruit" Paul warned about: [2 TIMOTHY 3:1-5 (NKJV)] “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves…unloving, unforgiving…brutal, despisers of good…having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” If we see this fruit in our lives, it's a call to repentance. God wants to produce kindness in us from the inside out. MAKE IT PRACTICAL – SIX WAYS TO CULTIVATE KINDNESS Gratitude Softens the Heart Grateful people are kind people. Key Thought: “The more I'm grateful for God's kindness toward me, the kinder I'll be to others.” Purity Protects Kindness Unrepented sin hardens the heart. Love Fuels Kindness Kindness is love in action. Forgiveness Makes Space for Kindness Bitterness blocks kindness. Key Thought: “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover the prisoner was me.” Devotion to God Develops Kindness Romans 2:4: “God's kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.”

Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. God is patient with us. And when we are patient—especially as mothers, fathers, or spiritual parents—we demonstrate that same fruit and reveal the evidence of God's Spirit in our lives. The fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, are not something we can strive for. The fruit of the Spirit is a byproduct of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and EVIDENCE of our relationships with Jesus. The fruit of patience is not meant to help us deal with annoyances of life. Patience, as used here, is defined as ENDURANCE, STEADFASTNESS, PERSEVERANCE, PATIENCE IN TRIAL, and LONGSUFFERING. Its purpose is to help us suffer through rials and mistreatment with a Christ-like attitude. Psalm 86:15 (NIV) reminds us that God is “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger”—He doesn't just demand patience, He demonstrates it. 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) shows us the reason: “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise… He is patient with you.”PATIENCE MATURES US BY GIVING US THE ABILITY TO DO THREE THINGS. 1. We LEARN TO WAIT FOR GOD. When we trust God in the waiting, we: Let go of our timeline but get God's timing. Let go of our plan but get God's provision. Lose control but get God's covering. 2. We mature as we LEARN TO ENDURE THROUGH TRIALS. God does not cause trials, but He promises to be with us through trials. We must hold firm to God, no matter what! 3. We endure in patience when we LEARN TO FORGIVE EACH OTHER. Forbearance gives us the ability to forgive someone even in the toughest situations. Today, let's lock eyes with Jesus, so that He can help us cultivate the kind of patience that's only available through Him! WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE PRACTICALLY: HOW DO WE CULTIVATE PATIENCE? 1. FOCUS ON WHO JESUS IS. When we are waiting, enduring, and forgiving, we can cast out doubt, fear, and anxiety because He is faithful! Jesus is Love, Powerful, our Redeemer, Rock, Good Shepherd, and Good Father. He is the Way, Truth, the life, our Savior, Almighty, and the Great I AM! We don't have to focus on ourselves. 2. FOCUS ON WHAT JESUS HAS SAID. Patience is not passive. Waiting is an opportunity to grow when we put our hope in the Word. We need to find a verse that speaks to our situation and claim it! My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, .. James 1:2-3 3. FOCUS ON WHAT JESUS HAS DONE. When God asks us to be patient, He isn't asking us to do anything He did not do first. God waited on us, endured with us, and forgave us. Because He did, we can wait on God's timing, endure through the greatest pain, and forgive the deepest wrongs. WE ARE NEVER MORE LIKE JESUS THAN WHEN WE ARE LIVING IN PATIENCE! Do not, therefore, fling away your [fearless] confidence, for it has a glorious and great reward. For you have need of patient endurance [to bear up under difficult circumstances without compromising], so that when you have carried out the will of God, you may receive and enjoy to the full what is promised. (Heb 10:35-36) AMP

VISION SUNDAY Our Core Values A young couple moved to a new city with big dreams but felt isolated — no friends, no community. On a whim, they visited a church. From day one, they felt seen, loved, and welcomed. Over time, they became leaders, helping others find the same sense of belonging. When asked why they stayed, they said, "It wasn't the programs or preaching — it was the people who lived what they believed and loved us when we had nothing to offer." That's the heartbeat of Agape Church. [VISION STATEMENT] We exist to HELP PEOPLE KNOW GOD, FIND FREEDOM, DISCOVER PURPOSE, and MAKE A DIFFERENCE. It's not just what we do — it's who we are. Having a compelling vision is good — but a healthy culture is essential. CULTURE EATS STRATEGY FOR LUNCH. Even the best plan fails without the right values, morals, and behaviors. Motivation is your why. Morals are your compass. Integrity is consistency. Character is your reputation. GOD'S CORE PROMISES Exodus 6:6-7 (NIV) “...I will bring you out... I will free you... I will redeem you... I will take you as my own people...” “I will bring you out” – SALVATION (Change your location) “I will free you” – DELIVERANCE (Change your mentality) “I will redeem you” – RESTORATION “I will take you as my own people” – FULFILLMENT GOD'S CORE VALUES FOR THE ISRAELITES Exodus 20:1–17 God gave the commandments after freeing His people — values are for the free. AGAPE CHURCH CORE VALUES - God works through His Church — people led and empowered by the Holy Spirit. We serve with EXCELLENCE. Colossians 3:23–24 (NIV) We build for the future — what we build should OUTLIVE US. John 15:16 (NIV) We SPEAK WELL OF OTHERS — no gossip. Leviticus 19:16 (NLT), Proverbs 11:13 (NIV) We PASTOR A CITY, not just a church. We are FRIENDLY and HELPFUL. We believe in the UNIFYING POWER OF JESUS. John 17:20–23 (NIV) [BIG KEY:] A united nation starts with a united Church — passionate people surrendered to Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:18–20 (NIV), 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NLT) FOUR UNITY STEPS: Own the problem. Accept the Church's call to reconcile. Overcome blind spots. Fully commit to unity. CREATIVITY is how we solve problems — even within limitations. We TRANSITION WELL — honoring God and relationships. Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7:8 (ESV) We always TRUST GOD TO MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

Jesus expects His followers to be GENUINELY ENCOURAGED BY WHO HE IS and their identity in HimJesus will always provide COMFORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE INSIDE-OUT FIRST, not from the outside –in. ·       JOY comes from the inside but HAPPINESS comes from the outside·       Our desire to know and love Him and the energy to serve Him will KEEP FLOWING into and through us AS LONG AS "WE ABIDE IN HIM."·       A believer cannot achieve anything of spiritual value independent of Jesus. ·       The ability to bring the transforming love of Jesus to a world suffering with all these ailments comes from being like branches are connected to the vine. Because Jesus is the True Vine, we are to stay connected to Him and by loving each other!

THE MAGNIFICENT VII I AM “THE GOOD SHEPHERD” Jn. 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.” (NKJV)Intro:Honor and Definition of a ShepherdJesus, a great storytellerGood and Bad leadersChap 9:Man born blind, healed by Jesus on the Sabbath, thrown out of the temple. Leaders were spiritually blind, contrasting with Jesus' healing.Chapter 10:Jesus compares shepherds to people in the Middle East. He contrasts the Pharisees' blindness with the healed man. False shepherds (Pharisees) claimed insight but were spiritually blind. Jesus, as the True Shepherd, seeks and heals His sheep. His sheep hear and follow His voice.Jn. 10:1-5Jesus describes Himself as the door of the sheep, warning of thieves and robbers. Sheep recognize and follow the voice of their shepherd.Jesus as the Door:He is the only way to salvation and provision. The shepherd protects His flock and provides for their needs. False shepherds only take from the flock, but Jesus gives abundant life. John. 10:7-10Jesus is the door through which His sheep are saved and find pasture. The thief comes to steal, but Jesus came to give life more abundantly.The Good Shepherd:Jesus is willing to give His life for His sheep (Jn. 10:11).A hireling flees when danger comes, but Jesus cares for His flock and lays down His life for them (Jn. 10:12-13).Jesus has intimate knowledge of His sheep and will gather others, including Gentiles (Jn. 10:14-16).John. 10:17-18Jesus willingly lays down His life; His death is voluntary, and He has power over it. His obedience to God's will brings special love from the Father.Division Among the People: Jesus' teachings divided the crowd, with some claiming He was demon-possessed, while others recognized His power to heal.Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd:Psalm 23:1-6: God as our shepherd provides, restores, protects, and comforts. He takes care of all our needs, especially salvation, which He secured through Jesus' sacrifice.

The Seven “I AM” Statements of Jesus Jesus said – “I am the Door” Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:7-10 NKJV BIBLICAL USAGE OF DOOR OR GATE Greek Word - "thyra" means "door," "gate," or "entrance," used both literally and figuratively. Figurative Meaning: It can also be used metaphorically to represent an opportunity, a way in, or a pathway to something different, something new, a higher place … or to a door of temptation. SIX IMPORTANT DOORS TO CONSIDER The Door of Salvation - “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6 The Door of Protection - “I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” John 10:9 The Door of Opportunity – “See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it” Rev 3:8 The Door of Perseverance – “… keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. Luke 11:5-9 NLT The Door of Temptation – “Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.” Gen 4:6-7 NLT The Door to Heaven – “Then as I looked, I saw a door standing open in Heaven, and the same voice I had heard before spoke to me like a trumpet blast. The voice said, “Come up here ” Rev 4:1 The Invitation - Behold, I stand at the door and continually knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him (restore him), and he with Me. Rev 3:20 amp

I AM The Light of the World John. 8:12 (NIV) When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John.1:1-5 (NIV) “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John.14:6 Jesus and answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. The Light of His TRUTH, The light of His WORD, The light of ETERNAL LIFE. FIRST PROMISE, His followers will never walk in darkness, 2 Corinthians 4:7 (TLB) But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. Ephesians 1:18-19 (NIV) “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, . . . 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, Ephesians 3:17-18 (NIV) “. . . I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 1 John 1:5-7 (NIV) “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all[a] sin. SECOND promise is we will reflect the Light of Life. John 8:12 (TLB) “Later, in one of his talks, Jesus said to the people, “I am the Light of the world. So if you follow me, you won't be stumbling through the darkness, for living light will flood your path.” Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV) “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. Isaiah 60: 1-3 (NIV) Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness will cover the earth, and deep darkness the peoples; But the Lord will rise upon you and His glory will appear upon you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. I AM; Child of God; I AM: Redeemed from the hand of the enemy I AM: A new creation. I AM the light of the World Isaiah 60 (AMP) "Arise [from the depression & prostration in which circumstances have kept you -- rise to a new life]!"

MAGNIFICENT VII: The Bread of Life THE BREAD THAT SAVED A LIFE During World War II, a soldier in a prison camp shared his hidden piece of bread with a fellow prisoner, offering life-saving strength. That small gesture symbolized life beyond mere sustenance. John 18:3-6 (NIV) Jesus, knowing His fate, declares “I AM He” (ego eimi), a powerful statement connecting Himself to God's covenant name revealed in Exodus 3:14, affirming His divinity. John 6:28-35 (NIV) The crowd, seeking signs, misses the deeper truth. Jesus corrects their view of manna, revealing that God's true bread, the bread of life, comes from Him. “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” BREAKING IT DOWN… The crowd focuses on physical bread, missing the spiritual truth. Jesus points them to eternal sustenance, urging them to seek the true bread from heaven. WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT JESUS IS THE BREAD OF LIFE? Bread is Essential for Life: It symbolizes sustenance. Just as physical bread sustains life, Jesus sustains spiritual life. Jesus Gives Eternal Life: Jesus contrasts physical bread with spiritual bread, offering eternal life. Jesus Satisfies the Deepest Hunger: He satisfies our inner desire for righteousness, purpose, and meaning (Matthew 5:6). THE BREAD OF LIFE – WHAT JESUS IS SAYING TO YOU Jesus is saying He is essential for your life. He offers eternal life, satisfaction for your deepest hunger, and an invitation to come and believe in Him. COMMUNION Jesus is not just a teacher or prophet—He is the Bread of Life that gives eternal life. The question is: Are you feeding on the true Bread that lasts, or settling for what will never satisfy?

**THIS FUNCTIONAL FAMILY: A Generational Mentality** In 1956, Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, along with four missionaries, attempted to reach the Huaorani tribe in Ecuador. Though Jim and the others were killed, Elisabeth returned with her daughter, demonstrating a generational mentality—she believed her actions could impact future generations. Eventually, the tribe embraced Christ, and today, their descendants are pastors and missionaries. Many of us live for the present, but God calls us to think generationally. Psalm 78:4, 6-7 (NLT): *"We will tell the next generation...so each generation might set its hope anew on God."* Families are not just dynamic institutions but spiritual legacies. As a church, we are called to instill hope, power, and faithfulness in future generations. Let's explore a Generational Mentality—acknowledging both the present and future in God's plan. **Two Main Characteristics of Our Current Generation** **We are a DIVERSE GENERATION** There are more generations alive today than ever before! - Silent, Boomer, X Generations: Slower-paced, shared faith, high trust, strong morality - Millennial, Gen Z: Frantic pace, faith at the margins, broken trust, moral tolerance **We are a DISCONNECTED GENERATION** Judges 17:6 (NLT): *"In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes."* As culture changes, children must figure out their own values. Margaret Mead predicted a time when children will navigate values alone. As followers of Jesus, we must restore connections between generations. **Benefits of Understanding Generational Differences** - Effective communication, teamwork, and leadership - Better recruitment and retention - Shared values Without a generational mentality, a church's mission dies with the current generation. Nelson Henderson said, *"The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit."* A church with a generational mindset plants seeds for a harvest it may never see. **Four Characteristics of a Church with a Generational Mentality** 1. **Prioritizes Discipleship and Spiritual Reproduction** - 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV): *"Entrust to reliable people who will teach others."* A generational church trains disciples who train others. 2. **Honors the Legacy of Faith** - 1 Corinthians 11:23 (NIV): *"For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you..."* A church keeps the foundation of faith intact for future generations.3. **Builds Structures for the Future** - Psalm 78:6 (NLT): *"So the next generation might know them..."* A church creates ministries and leadership programs that outlast current leadership. *The things we build for God should outlive us!* 4. **Strengthens Families to Carry Faith Forward** - Josh McDowell: *"Christianity is always one generation away from extinction."* A church equips families to carry on the faith. **A Church with a Generational Mentality Answers Three Critical Questions for the Next Generation** 1. **What is Truth?** - John 18:37-38 (NIV): *"Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."* A church anchors youth in Scripture to withstand cultural shifts. 2. **Where Do I Belong?** - Psalm 68:6 (NIV): *"God sets the lonely in families..."* A church is a place of belonging and mentorship across generations. 3. **Does My Life Matter?** - Ephesians 2:10 (NLT): *"We are God's masterpiece..."* A church affirms that every life has God-ordained purpose. **How to Live Out a Generational Mentality** - Teach the next generation—share faith stories with children and new believers. - Disciple intentionally—invest in mentoring and training. - Create future-focused ministries—empower young leaders by placing them in positions of responsibility. - Live with a kingdom legacy in mind—make decisions that impact generations to come. Let us commit to building a legacy of faith that echoes through generations!